Sierra Sun Times Mariposa's only daily updated online newspaper

10-05-07
Mariposa High School Sports:
Mariposa Boys Soccer:
Defeated Le Grand 3-0 Yesterday!

Hailing in Lushmeadows @ 9:50AM

The weekend Out and About Section:
Grapes to Stomp, along with their Street Faire in Murphys!
In Mariposa: Planes to watch at the Airport and a big Flea Market in Hornitos and much more!
Goldrushcam Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuoulumne County and Calaveras County

Coldest morning since June 6, 2007 where it was 39.6 so far this morning 39.8 at our elevation!

Watch soon for the Sierra Sun Times to carry Badger Pass Ski Resort Fun Passes!
Discounted Ski Packages for the Badger Pass Ski area in Yosemite National Park!
Let It Snow!

The Merced River Plan decision which was supposed to be released on October 10, has been delayed because the judge is really busy!

Bidding for the El Portal Market starts on October 18, 2007 and is a six year contract!

Reminder:
Planning Commission Meeting @ 9:00AM
Agenda:October 5, 2007

10-04-07
A concert for Ashley Sala this Saturday in Oakhurst!
Sierra Star - A song for Ashley

On the 26th and 27th of September 2007, approximately 30 law enforcement officers from the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office...
Marijuana Cultivation Sites Eradicated in Merced River Drainage

10-03-07

Mariposa County hires a new Director for the Human Services Department!
Also the Highlights from the Board of Supervisors meeting yesterday where Agritourism was discussed!
Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting Highlights For October 2, 2007

Update on Mariposa County Supervisor Brad Aborn: Brad will be home today, but is ordered to stay off of hay bales while he recuperates from back surgery! He is in good spirits and hopes to be at next weeks Board of Supervisors meeting!

Enjoy today's weather for a big change is on the way! Read the weather page for a special weather statement by NOAA!
Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

10-02-07
Tolley Gorham & Mariposa Properties donates Raiders tickets to "El Mercado"!
Mariposa Pines News

Supervisor Dianne Fritz and Fire Chief Jim Wilson along with Mariposa County CAO Rick Benson were at the Government Center last night to have a public discussion on the state of the fire department in Mariposa County. With only residents Don Weston, Gregg Fritz and the Sierra Sun Times at the meeting, an informal talk was given by the fire chief.
Mr.Wilson reiterated his position, that putting a lot of money into old equipment is not financially sound and that maintenance this year is expected to come in at around $240,000. Mr. Benson noted that part of that money is to cover maintenance that was deferred and that next year the fire department might not spend that much money on maintenance.
Mr. Wilson also commented that Los Banos is willing to give us an old fire truck for a $1.00 so he is going to look at it!

Mariposa High School Sports:
Mariposa Boys Soccer:
Defeated Delhi 4-0 Yesterday

Update on Mariposa County Supervisor Brad Aborn who fell off a hay stack last week:
After a six hour surgery on Saturday where doctors inserted some plates and pins along with fusing some vertebrae, he was pretty groggy on Sunday. Possibly today Brad will be fitted with a brace and may be home in a couple days. The doctors are very optimistic that Brad will have a full recovery!

Reminder:
Board Of Supervisors meeting @9:00 AM
On the Agenda:
10:30 a.m. CALENDAR Kris Schenk, Planning Director; Discussion and Direction Regarding the Use, Density and Operational Requirements for Agritourism in Mariposa County
Agenda:Mariposa, California - County Government News

&
School Board Meeting @ 5:30 PM
Mariposa County Office of Education -
Board Of Trustees Agenda 10-2-07 -
Board of Education Agenda 10-2-07

10-01-07

An Art Auction was held while everyone nibbled on Hors D' Oeuvres, which included homemade Grape Leaves by SPCA President Ruth Catalan.
Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce September "Business after Hours" at the SPCA

High School Sports;
After spanking Livingston on Friday (48-0),
the Grizzlies (4-0) take on Modesto Christian, (3-1) this Friday. The only team that both teams have played this season is Orestimba which Mariposa beat 35-12 while Modesto Christian rolled Orestimba 48-0!
Last year Modesto Christian took Mariposa to the woodpile with the final score 0-42!

Reminder: Important meeting tonight by Supervisor Dianne Fritz at 6:00 PM @ the Government Center.
A presentation by Mariposa County Fire Chief Jim Wilson, on the State of the Fire Department.
Check this page then attend the meeting and give your comments and suggestions!
Mariposa County - State Of The Fire Department

9-30-07

Sponsored by Infant/Child Enrichment Services the 18th Annual Children's Fair in the Park had lots of things for kids to do.
Linda Gast - 2007 Mariposa County Children's Fair

Leroy Radanovich's Mariposa Life
Out there is the world that we don't often like to think about, a great debate is taking place about High Speed Rail in California. Please do not think that the subject has no consequences for Mariposa
County.
HIGH SPEED RAIL AND MARIPOSA COUNTY

Sunday September 30, 2007
Yes Virginia there is a creature called a “Titmouse”, however it is not a mouse at all nor does it have anything at all to do with a bosom
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

9-29-07
Friday night High School Football:
Mariposa rolls over Livingston 48-0!

Warning! Not for the squeamish!
Snakebitten!

Saturday September 29, 2007
When the head of state from another country visits the United States he or she should receive a little respect. This is to be expected of a superpower.
James Heth - The Visitor

Senior Center Menu for October is up!
Mariposa County Senior News

The Midpines Planning Advisory Committee will have an Area Plan workshop.
News Of The Midpines Area Of
Mariposa County

Reminder: Open House in Yosemite Today!
&
Yosemite "Face Lift" begins today!
Fourth Annual "Yosemite Facelift" Volunteer Event to be Held in Yosemite National Park September 26-30, 2007

Introducing Mariposa's newest Band: Hwy 49 You may recognize some of the faces from other bands, and we've put a little kick into it! Please join Jimmy Collier, Joseppi Nelson, Glenn Franklin & Ken Lambert when we debut at the 6th Annual Airport Inn Chill Cook-off Sat. Oct. 13 from Noon-4PM.
Out And About In Mariposa County
A Monthly Listing Of Things To Do In Mariposa County

Mariposa High School Sports:
Boys Soccer: A Win over Turlock Christian
6-0!

Mariposa County Residents, get ready for your flu shots!
PUBLIC HEALTH NOTES

9-25-07
Reminder:
Board of Supervisors Meeting @ 9:00 AM
&
September Mariposa Chamber of Commerce "Business after Hours" At the Mariposa SPCA

“El Mercado III” Community Yard Sale Marketplace, BBQ and Bake Sale Fund Raiser in Mariposa County set for Oct. 6, 2007
Mariposa Pines News

9-23-07
I was on one of my "ride abouts" in Mariposa County when I discovered a surprise on White Rock Road. White Rock Road winds it's way from Mariposa to Le Grand, through the Mariposa foothills.
Linda Gast - White Pelican

YARDLEY LAVENDER
Going over the boxes of out dated and obsolete merchandise that one
accumulates if you are in business long enough, leads one through
three quarters of a century of observations.
Leroy Radanovich - Yardley Lavender
Wow! What a weather day yesterday was as Summer 2007 ended it's reign with rain!
The Lions Car Show in Mariposa was cancelled
after the morning weather looked so threatening.
How much rain did Jerseydale receive?
Read about that and more on the Sierra Sun Times Weather Page!
Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Sunday September 23, 2007
Summer skies are as a rule awesome.
However, late in the season they take on even more stunning images.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

9-22-07

Saturday September 22, 2007
Since the Bush administration will undoubtedly be remembered as if not the single most incompetent, but certainly one of the most incompetent administrations in history
James Heth - Rove's Memories

Friday Night High School Football:
Mariposa rolls Gustine 47-0!

9-21-07
This month marks the 2 year anniversary of Clouds Rest Pet Sitting. Clouds Rest Pet Sitting proudly celebrates this special occasion and honors the past 24 months of challenges, growth and community support.
Clouds Rest Pet Sitting Offers Community Residents a Valuable Service

The Yosemite Corvette Club is having a big event on Saturday!
Vettes At The Lake - Yosemite Corvette Club Saturday September 29th, 2007 - At Lake Yosemite - Merced California
Vettes at the Lake

9-20-07

Reminders:
Mariposa County School Board Meetings Tonight!
Mariposa County Office of Education - Board Of Trustees Agenda 9-20-07 - Board of Education Agenda 9-20-07
&
Midpines Meeting Tonight!
Midpines News - News Of The Midpines Area Of Mariposa County

Mariposa High School: Girls VolleyBall:
3-0 Over Denair!

9-18-07

Enjoy today for the weather is really going to change! Snow level 6,500 Feet!
Is your wood stove clean and wood chopped?
Read the weather report here:
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Saturday, September 15, 2007 was the Groveland 49er Festival and Chili cook-off. If you came by our booth and didn’t get a card for a FREE recipe for the chili, just e-mail me and I will send it to you.
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

Mariposa High School: Boys Soccer:
Tie Score 2-2 With Le Grand

At last Wednesday's, September 12, 2007 Budget discussion the Sixth Street Cinema (Rural Media Arts Center) and Yosemite Renaissance budget was up for discussion.
Mariposa County Budget Talks 2007

The news reports are reporting that the missing man in Yosemite was not injured just dehydrated!

Mariposa County may be small, but its County workers sent a strong message to County management with overwhelming support to move to agency shop status.
SEIU Workers Win Agency Shop in Mariposa County

9-17-07

Missing Corcoran City Manager found in Yosemite near Taft Point today!
Missing since Friday afternoon, Ronald Hoggard 58, was dehydrated but has two broken ankles according to some reports!

Important:
The following request is from the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce President, MaryAnn Huff and Mariposa County Supervisor, Lyle Turpin
PERS Unfunded Liability Meeting open to the public on Tuesday September 18, 2007

The Sierra Art Trails 2007 Sierra Sun Times Website has been updated!
20 online bios of the Mariposa artists!
2007 Sierra Art Trails - Mariposa

Gala party for 2007 Sierra Arts Trail!
Sierra Arts Trail 2007 Gala Party

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Mariposa County Airport. The airport was dedicated on October 3, 1937 with much fanfare
Mariposa Airport Open House and Fly-In is Oct 6, 2007

Photo Slide Show!
The 'Blazin Hog' event at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds was a success on Saturday September 15, 2007!
A Sierra Sun Times Special Edition 2007 Blazin Hog BBQ in Mariposa, California

For more stats than you probably need to know about last Friday's Football game between Orestimba, register for free with Max Preps!
MaxPreps: - Mariposa High School Sports

9-16-07
Two Reminders:
FOURTH ANNUAL YOSEMITE FACELIFT
&
7th Annual Kim Evans Memorial Merced River Clean-up Saturday, September 29, 2007

On Saturday September 8, 2007 at the Oakhurst Community Park over 150 cars and hundreds of auto enthusiasts got together for the 5th Annual Run For The Gold Car Show and Oldies Weekend.
Run for the Gold - 5th Annual Car Show - Oldies Weekend 2007 Oakhurst, California

One of my favorite places to go in the Fall is Elkhorn Slough. Elkhorn Slough harbors the largest tract of tidal salt marsh in California outside of San Francisco Bay.
Linda Gast - Brown Pelicans

The 'Blazin Hog' event at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds was a success yesterday! As the sampling ran out very early in the day, next year more meats and fowls will have to be prepared.
A sure sign of a successful event! The weather was great, folks had fun dancing and listening to the music. The whole event for a first time effort was very well organized with a lot of staff people on hand. A big tip of the hat to all the folks who were involved with putting on the 'Blazin Hog'!

Sunday September 16, 2007
On this planet, with the possible exception of a newborn infant, there is nothing as defenseless as a quail, nor is there anything as harmless either
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

9-15-07
"God Is Awesome" proclaims Dell Knell as she is Cancer Free!

Mariposa County Office of Education - Board Of Trustees Agenda 9-20-07 - Board of Education Agenda 9-20-07

Saturday September 15, 2007
Those in Congress who criticize General Petraeus are demonstrating a severe lack of understanding of the military. One does not rise to the level of a four star general by questioning the policies of those in the ranks above.
James Heth - General Petraeus’s Report

Mariposa High School Home Football opener last night against Orestimba: The Grizzlies rolled Orestimba 35 -12!:

9-14-07

Tooting Our Horn!
The Sierra Sun Times - editor - publisher takes home First Place at the 2007 Mariposa County Fair!
2007 Mariposa County Fair - First Place - Spirits - Division 590 - Class 5
Oh yeah, plus we were Business of the Month for August 2007! Toot! Toot!

Boys High School Soccer: Mariposa takes a win over Delhi 3-0 yesterday!

With yesterday's high of 74.9 at our elevation, we have to go back 98 days to have enjoyed a cooler day for the year as far as high temps are concerned. Back on June 7, 2007 the high for the day was 71.1 over three months ago!

9-13-07

In the last few weeks Mariposa County Fire Chief Jim Wilson has gave two presentations before the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors.
Mariposa County - State Of The Fire Department

Mariposa County Budget talks concluded yesterday and now the final budget will be voted on next Tuesday at 9:30 AM at the government center.

Year to date savings: Over $185,000!
Mariposa County Fire Department August 2007, Monthly Volunteer Activity

9-12-07

The 2007 -08 Mariposa County Budget so far will include money for live audio streaming of the weekly Board of Supervisor meetings on the internet with archives!

The Tuesday Board of Supervisors meeting quick hits:
On the Zoning Ordinance defining temporary camping in the county, the ordinance was passed with Supervisor Lyle Turpin voting no due to concerns he has when people are temporary watching a place for someone.

Watch for your garbage pick up rates to increase substantially as the board unanimously approved a greater than 25% increase in rates to Total Waste Systems!

The new minimum road standards was adopted with a few changes. Supervisors Aborn and Bibby opposed the road standards due to concerns about safety.

I wanted to talk about the myth of fats in your diet. Simply put, fat is a major source of energy for your body and aids in the absorption of Vitamins A, D, E, and K
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

At the September 11, 2007 Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting the Fire Chief and other members of the fire department honored the fallen firefighters of New York who perished on 9/11 by giving a reading and tolling of the bell.
Mariposa County Fire Department Honors The Fallen Firefighters of 9/11

Billy Del Monte, 60 years old from Merced, California walked into the Oaks in Catheys Valley last Sunday and told the cashier to call the Sheriff's Office because he was going outside to shoot himself. The cashier called and told the sheriff dispatcher what was going on. The cashier then called back and stated that the subject bent over outside and shot himself. He left a suicide note stating he was depressed and loved the mountains so he came up to kill himself.

9-11-07
Remember 9/11 Today!
Forget the politics for the day and remember what happened and all the families that were involved and still involved with this terrorist tragedy.
I remember it well as I had the television on and heard the first report that said a small plane hit one of the towers and then the story took off from their. I remember watching live as the second plane hit and then finally incredibly as the towers came down! Numbingly we watched the television screen with the same feeling inside as when watching the Challenger explosion live on television. The mind not wanting to believe what the eyes are seeing!
It was and continues to this day to be a very sad day for America!

Wild Women of 7th Street Presents 'Wednesday Nights'

El Portal and Wawona get AT&T DSL !
Speeds & Price: $15 = 768 Kbps
$ 24 =3Mbps & $35 = 6Mbps
Ask your Board of Supervisors why STI charges $30 for 384 Kbps!
Help bring Mariposa County into the new century of High Speed DSL. Send a letter to STI and the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors to ask STI to justify their rates to the taxpayers of the county!

Mariposa Chamber of Commerce "Business after Hours" Celebration - September 2007
At the Mariposa SPCA

The ground continues to shake and quake outside of Oakhurst, California!
Recent Earthquakes

Down to only a few days to apply to be on the task force!
MARIPOSA COUNTY SOLID WASTE AB 939 LOCAL TASK FORCE
NOTICE OF VACANCY

Reminder:
Board of Supervisors Meeting @ 9:00 AM
On the agenda: The 2007-2008 budget and road standards. Also giving an increase of over 25% to Total Waste Management that Public Works Director Dan Hertfelder, has given his approval.

Today @ 3:00PM
Mariposa County School District
BOARD EMERGENCY TASK FORCE COMMITTEE

Also, Tonight:
Planning Advisory Meeting:
El Portal - Tuesday, September 11, 2007, 7:00 p.m., El Portal Community Center

9-10-07
A Sierra Sun Times Special Edition!
2007 Mariposa County Fair -
Baby And Tricycle Races

Getting Ready For Fall In Mariposa

Jack Burgess, The master historian of the Yosemite Valley Rail Road,
gave another fascinating talk accompanied by many, many photos projected on a screen, in Mariposa County yesterday! This time at the Mariposa Museum and History Center.
50+ people listened attentively as Jack brought the railroad alive with his vast knowledge of the track from Merced to El Portal!
Here is a link to his website:
THE YOSEMITE VALLEY RAILROAD
Jack's book would make a great gift for that special person that values history and is possibly a 'Foamer'. A 'Foamer' is a person that gets so excited about trains that they actually foam from the mouth when they hear train talk, according to Mr. Burgess!

OBSERVATIONS: PART ONE
The issues relating to the 6th St Cinema have been resolved to some extent. Further activities related to the restoration of the building, the old Masonic Temple, will proceed with the full interest
of the community thanks to misguided publicity that was presented in an attempt to challenge the existence of the project
Leroy Radanovich - Observations

The Moonlight Fire is 15% Contained and the Lick Fire is 95% contained and full containment is expected today.
September Fires Update

Mariposa High School Sports Update:
Mariposa Boys Soccer :
Yosemite Cup:
Friday: Vs Summerville W 6-1
Saturday: Vs Summerville W 5-1
Vs Bret Harte L 4-2
Vs Livingston L 0-2

Mariposa Girls Soccer:
Thursday: Vs Yosemite L 0-3

High School Football
Vs Summerville W 28-14

9-09-07

Fall weather is nearly here and from what I have read the fall color in the Eastern Sierra will be early this year. This maybe because of the drought last year
Linda Gast - Fall In The Eastern Sierra

Sunday September 9, 2007
Along the edges of the foothills and before you see mountain shadows there is another shadow that just might cross your path.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

9-08-7

Wow! Part Three!
A Sierra Sun Times Special Edition:
Part Three!
2007 Mariposa County Labor Day Parade

Mariposa High School Football:
Mariposa 28 Summerville 14!
Thanks to Max Preps for the scores!
http://www.maxpreps.com/

At the Mariposa Museum and History Center tomorrow:
Jack Burgess will give a presentation on:
The History of the Yosemite Valley Railroad...and Tracing It Today
For more info:
Goldrushcam - Out And About Weekend Edition

Saturday September 8, 2007
For many years and long before America became involved, the people of Iraq have been fighting each other to determine who will rule.
James Heth - The RightThing

As the fires continue to burn:
September Fires

Reminder: Today:
Wawona Planning Advisory Meeting
9:00 AM Wawona Community Center
September 8, 2007

Another day with an Air Quality Alert for the surrounding counties:
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

9-07-07

The ~~Mobile~~ Manufactured Home in Coulterville was unanimously approved today by the Planning Commission!
It complies with current zoning and is not in the National Historic District!
But still has to comply with some conditions set forth by the Planning Department.

A Sierra Sun Times Special Edition:
Part Two!
2007 Mariposa County Labor Day Parade

From NPS:
AT&T DSL in El Portal - Tolley Gorham spoke with Phil Willits (AT&T local Technician) this morning and AT&T can now provide and support DSL to residents in El Portal. Contact your AT&T service representative to order the service, but keep in mind there will probably be a waiting list so get your order in early to be on the top of the list.
How Much Money and How Fast?

Reminder: Today:
The Planning Commission will have a hearing on the Manufactured Home in Coulterville.
Is it located in the Historic District or not?

A few small shakers in the past few days between Yosemite Valley and Oakhurst!
Is it a Prelude to something bigger?
Recent Earthquakes for 119-37

Need a Job?
The School District is still looking for a few bus drivers!
Announcements

Mariposa County Codes Are Now Online!
County Codes

Animal Control has added a nice touch on their web page!
The Picked up animals now have some text saying where they were found!
Help your neighbor find their pet!
Daily Log

9-06-07
From the School Board Meeting:
The Bus Routes will stay as they are for the year.

Read this and think Mariposa!
Bus Stop: Budget Cuts End School Busing- KCRA Sacramento
Also: California has no required bussing!
We wonder how many Teacher In-service days there are that could be cut to save that money for bussing! Teacher In-service days cost over $35,000 in Mariposa County for each day!

Do you own a Oregon Scientific Weather Alert Radio?
Read this about a serious recall:
Weather Radios Recalled by Oregon Scientific Due to Failure to Receive National Weather Service Alerts

An Air Quality Alert has been issued for the surrounding counties. Read about in on the Weather page: Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

A lot of calls to the Mariposa Sheriff Department over the long weekend but only one DUI was reported and eight other arrests for various reasons.

Coming soon at the Mariposa County Library: a special reading area with information for seniors. Look for it in the large print book section of the library.

9-05-07
A Sierra Sun Times Special Edition:
Part One:
2007 Mariposa County Labor Day Parade

Mariposa County Fair Results - 2007

Smoky Days - September 5, 2007
If it seemed smoky today, you were right!
As the photo below shows the smoke from the Lick Fire, near Morgan Hill, California is drifting all over Northern California.

Linda Gast - Darrah School House
The Old Darrah One Room School House is ringing with the sound of children and music since school started on September 4th.

The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell
On Saturday, September 15, 2007 get your taste buds ready, your appetite up and your judging shoes on. The ‘49er Festival & Chili Cook-off is off again in downtown Groveland.

Sixth Street Cinema will receive it's funding as long as certain conditions are met!
0n a 4-1 vote with Supervisor Janet Bibby being the no vote.

9-04-07

The Smoke in the air is drifting across the valley from a fire near Morgan Hill!

Read this and think about Mariposa!
The Modesto Bee | Council's potential benefits under fire in Livingston

Reminder:
The Board of Supervisors Meeting
@ 9:00 AM.
Highlights:
Richard J. Benson, County Administrative Officer; Approve a Grant Agreement for the Rural Media Arts and Education Project in the Amount of $25,000 and Authorize the Board of Supervisors Chair to Sign the Agreement.

Also!
The School Board will have busing on their agenda Tonight at 5:30 PM
Also search and seizure issues will be discussed.
Agenda & Cell Phone Policy
( We thought the busing troubles were over with! Email us if you are having busing issues with your children!)

9-03-07
Breaking News!
At the County Fair:
The Sierra Sun Times takes home a First Place Award! Part of the Goldrushcam Crew wins Best In Show! Details Later

9-02-07
Linda's Dog Finds Another Friend!
Emily, the Rat Terrier, once again has found a wild animal under the deck. She went nose to nose with a beautiful cinnamon bear last week.
Linda Gast - 'Pogo' The Opossum

Sunday September 2, 2007
The other day while sitting out on our deck I noticed five ants marching single file along one of the boards
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

9-01-07

The Schools 2007 Accountability Progress Report: State and Federal Measurements of Student Achievement, School Accountability was released yesterday!
Kudos to Mariposa Elementary for posting a 26 point growth ! (The following are small schools and the results need to be carefully analyzed but at least they are up!) Coulterville - Greeley Elementary, Mariposa County Independent Learning, Yosemite National Park El Portal and the Valley !
What is going on at the High School and Woodland Elementary where scores went backward?
County List of Schools & Accountability Progress Report for 2007 - Year 2007 (CA Dept of Education)

Saturday September 1, 2007
The recipe has a lot more ingredients than I like. How can you be cheap and lazy when your recipe
calls for 13 ingredients? And some of them are probably not things you have sitting around
The Cheap And Lazy Cook - Recipe Instructions

Heat advisory up for today again!
If cooling centers are opened, the Sheriff's Office (966-3615) will have that information.
See the advisory on the weather page:
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Saturday September 1, 2007
When the pilot looks around and sees one engine on fire and his right wing about to fall off, if he has any salt at all, he thinks of his crew. He then holds the plane level as best he can and orders his crew to bailout.
James Heth - The Bailout

8-31-07

NASA wants your photos of a once in a lifetime event!
An extremely rare Aurigid meteor shower occurs on September1, 2007 @ about 4:00 AM.
NASA - Public to Help NASA, SETI Institute, Other Scientists Study Meteor Shower

Mariposa County High School Alumni
Annual Meeting and Breakfast: Starts at 10:30 a.m. on the Sunday before Labor Day, at the high school. Donuts, coffee and juice are served; a donation is requested.
Mariposa County High School Alumni Association Home Page

YARTS fares to rise 10%
Beginning November 1, 2007
The new monthly pass rates should be:
Mariposa/Midpines to Yosemite Valley    $91
Mariposa to El Portal                              $73
Midpines to El Portal                              $48
El Portal to Yosemite Valley                   $43

Another Heat Advisory is up for today!
Watch your elderly neighbors!
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

A big issue facing Mariposa County residents!
Watch for a Power Point demo on the State of the Fire Department in Mariposa County as presented by Mariposa County Fire Chief Jim Wilson!
The Sierra Sun Times feels that this is such a critical issue in the county that we are devoting the bandwith for this Power Point demo!

Bussing issues are back on the agenda!
Tuesday September 4, 2007 School Board of Trustees Special Meeting

Robert Donahue of Mariposa, a 2001 graduate of Mariposa High School will be teaching in Japan!
Sierra Sun Times Announcements

Thursday morning August 30, 2007 arrived with thunder and rain along with windy conditions!
The Wacky Weather Of August 30, 2007

Coming Up:
Next Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting:
Approve a Grant Agreement for the Rural Media Arts and Education Project in the Amount of $25,000 and Authorize the Board of Supervisors Chair to Sign the Agreement.
and the Planning Commission on that Friday will look at the Manufactured home trying to be placed in Coulterville.

8-30-07
BBQ Tri Tip
First let me talk about what Tri-Tip is and what it’s all about. In many parts of the country if you went into a butcher shop (and your from California) and asked for a Tri-Tip, the butcher would look at you funny and probable say, “what’s that?”
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

Mariposa County Fire Department recently placed four additional Type 4 fire engines, technically referred to as patrols, in service.
Mariposa County Adds New Fire Engines To Fleet

The Mariposa County Arts Council is pleased to host the very popular Short Story Writing class starting September 19^th
Be it fiction, or your family tales, you can write short stories!
Short Story Writing Workshop Begins September 19, 2007

The 2007 Sierra Art Trails catalog is now Available!
Sierra Art Trails Catalog

As of 5:25 AM: Light Sprinkles in Lushmeadows and the temps dropped 10 degrees with the rain!

ABC News 30 is reporting that the emergency federal dollars for the Ferguson Rock Slide permanent bridges has been approved!

Take watch of your elderly neighbors for the next few days as the heat indexes soar up to 110 degrees!
The Senior Center in Mariposa County is a Cooling Center:
The center is located at: 5246 Spriggs Lane, Mariposa , California
Phone: 966-5315
As of 3:30 AM:
Cloudy And Breezy / Windy Right Now
Thunder / Lightning Possible!
Temps still in the 80's!
See the advisory on the weather page:
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

8-29-07

Highlights of the Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday August 28, 2007
Sixth Street Cinema prevails on the occupancy permit issue at the Board of Supervisors meeting! Red Cloud Library steams ahead as the construction of the building will now go out to bid! On the Slide, Congressman George Radanovich said that emergency funding for the permanent bridges looks like a go and CalTrans is happy!

NOAA has issued a heat advisory for today!
See the advisory on the weather page:
Sierra Sun Times - Weather Forecast For Mariposa / Madera County Foothills / Yosemite

Is the poverty rate up or down in Mariposa County?
A survey was released by the government (The 2006 American Community Survey) but only includes counties over 65,000 in population! Guess we will have to wait a long, long time to be on that survey! Poverty rates in Merced County has increased while Stanislaus and San Joaquin County had a decrease.

The Upper Merced River Watershed Council is looking for Volunteers for: BIOASSESSMENT MONITORING!
Do not Worry it is just a big title!
To learn more: What's New in the Watershed?

8-28-07
Reminder:
Today:
Board of Supervisors Meeting @ 9:00 AM
Tonight:
Mariposa County Chamber Of Commerce August Mixer

“Harvest Weekend in the Country” Announced!
Summer’s heat hasn’t yet released its grip on the Sierra foothills, but early signs of fall, some triggered by drought conditions, have already begun to appear.
Mariposa, California Agri-Nature Trail September 29 - 30, 2007

8-26-07

Get ready for the:
Total Lunar Eclipse: August 28, 2007
INFORMATION ON TONIGHT/S LUNAR ECLIPSE...
THERE WILL BE A TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE MOON DURING THE EARLY MORNING
OF AUGUST 28TH. THE MOON WILL ENTER THE UMBRA /THE DARKEST PORTION
OF THE EARTH/S SHADOW/ BEGINNING AT 0151 PDT /0851Z/. TOTALITY WILL
BE FROM 0232 PDT TO 0422 PDT /0932Z TO 1122Z/.

NASA - Total Lunar Eclipse: August 28, 2007
&
SPACE.com Video Player: Unusually Cool Lunar Eclipse!

8-25-07

Sunday August 26, 2007
Some cats are really crazy and really do very strange things occasionally. We have two Manx cats. Both are tom cats from the same litter six years ago.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

8-24-07

Is that your Llama at Animal Control?
Daily Log

Board of Supervisors For Tuesday:
August 28, 2007 Addendum
Supervisors Pickard and Fritz;
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Use Determination of the Old Masonic Lodge

Saturday August 25, 2007
The Bush administration has committed many mistakes but perhaps the most egregious one is the refusal to join the other industrial nations in creating policies to reduce the greenhouse effect.
James Heth - Another Big Mistake

8-23-07

Thomas Phillips Announces Candidacy for Mariposa County District 4 Supervisor
I, Thomas B. Phillips, would like to announce my candidacy for Mariposa County District 4 Supervisor.
Thomas Phillips Announces Candidacy for Mariposa County District 4 Supervisor

The Clean Sidewalks Of Mariposa!
Mariposa has clean sidewalks thanks to the workers at Public Works who started their day early on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 21 & 22, 2007.
The Clean Sidewalks Of Mariposa!

This is the last weekend of the season for Mariposa Evenings! Come on out and have some fun on Friday / Saturday Night!
Out And About In Mariposa County

Here comes El Mercado 3 to the Mariposa Pines Jerseydale area on October 6, 2007
Mariposa Pines News

Students & Parents, Need Homework Help?
Free Online Tutors!
California State Library

Want to be on a committee?
MARIPOSA COUNTY SOLID WASTE AB 939 LOCAL TASK FORCE could be for You!
NOTICE OF VACANCY

James Heth - Jus' Wonder in'?
Jus’ wonderin why in Merced County they have pot holes on the old highway but when it enters Mariposa County those are instantly replaced by bomb craters?
James Heth - Jus' Wonder in'?

8-22-07
Back To School With Linda Gast!
The first day of school can be both an exciting and stressful occasion for children and parents alike.
See the Slide Show!
Linda Gast - The First Day of School

Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting Highlights For August 21, 2007
Technical Services Director, Rick Peresan is saving the county some money by switching all the available county phone lines to a two year deal with A.T.&T Read about this and more!
Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Meeting Highlights For August 21, 2007

First day of School Today!
Busses are on schedule.

ICE CREAM SODAS AND OTHER ITEMS
The proper way to construct an Ice Cream Soda. At the age of 12, I was instructed by my father in the ways to do many things. How to properly sweep a floor, how to dust a bottle, how to wash a window, and how to concoct a number of products using syrup, ice cream and carbonated water.
Leroy Radonvich -
Ice Cream Sodas And Other Items

The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell
Now that we talked about gardens, healthy cooking, and calories lets have some fun with a recipe. How about Garlic Scallops over Pasta
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

Marijuana Raids In The National Forest
On Monday, August 20^th and Tuesday, August 21st, the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office, Sierra National Forest law enforcement, Stanislaus National Forest law enforcement,...
Marijuana Raids In The National Forest

8-21-07

Savant Explorations Ltd. Announces Blue Moon, California, Poly Metallic Massive Sulphide Project Update In Mariposa County!

Reminder:
Board of Supervisors Meeting @ 9:00AM

The Kiwanis Sound of Music Preschool Academy is holding its Open House, August 24th from 6 pm to 8 pm at Darrah School house, the corner of Darrah and Triangle Roads. Everyone is welcome to come and celebrate with us. Refreshments will be served.
The Preschool is accepting applications for enrollment in the afternoon session. This session will begin at 12:30 pm and end at 3:30 pm.
For further information, please call Melissa Matheson, Director at 966-2011, or Sara E. Parrish, Secretary at 966-6992,

The proposed 2007 / 2008 Mariposa County Budget is online!
$81,038,561 is $911,064 or 1.15% higher than last years budget.
Mariposa County Administration Department

Mariposa County Fire Department July 2007, Monthly Volunteer Activity
One of the most daunting tasks a fire chief of a volunteer or combination department faces is how to quantify and communicate the value that organization represents to the community.
Over $166,000 Saved so far this year !
Mariposa County Fire Department July 2007, Monthly Volunteer Activity

8-20-07

Mariposa County Schools Star Test scores:
California Standardized Testing And Reporting (STAR) Program
Grades 9, 10, 11 are going backward in the Algebra 1 scores with over half the tested students below basic or far below basic!
What is wrong with this picture?
There are some rays of sunshine in the report but a lot of work needs to be done still!
We wonder how many Mariposa County seniors have to take remedial classes at whatever college they attend?

Attempted Homicide in Mariposa County
On August 16, 2007 at about 6:23 p.m. Mariposa County sheriff deputies investigated a report of an attempted homicide.
Attempted Homicide in Mariposa County

MARIPOSA MOUNTAIN RIDER MEMBER APPRECIATION DAY & TACK SALE!
Mariposa Mountain Riders

Mariposa County Unemployment Report For July 2007
The Mariposa County Unemployment rate for July 2007 stood at 5.1 %. The same rate as from the June report and .2% higher than July 2006.
Mariposa County Unemployment Report For July 2007

Want a new job that pays good?
Be A CEO!
Study this report from the California Labor Market on jobs in the Mother Lode!
High Wage Occupations In The Mother Lode

Feeling Blue? Need a Lift?
File your mining claim today! For as little as one dollar an acre, you can be a rich mine owner!
EWG, US Mining Database || Mining Law Threatens Western Treasures

8-19-07

The Fresno Bee has a great story on
Mariposa resident Tom Bopp!
FresnoBee.com: Local: Window into Yosemite's past

Linda Gast - California Sea Lion
They bark like a dog, have huge feet, can weigh up to a 1000 pounds (a large percent is blubber), swim and dive gracefully and have a hard time moving on land.
They are the California Sea Lion.
Linda Gast - California Sea Lion

Friday August 17, 2007 Structure Fire In Mariposa County
At 11:28 AM on Friday August 17, resources from Mariposa County Fire, Cal Fire, Sierra National Forest, and Sheriff were dispatched to a structure fire at 1943 Tenaya Lane.
Friday August 17, 2007 Structure Fire In Mariposa County

Mariposa Mountain Riders
Celebrates History!
On August 5^th the Mariposa Mountain Riders had a General Meeting and Picnic at the Mariposa County Park. During the meeting, Vice President Susan Clark shared with the members some interesting information that had been dug up in our archived boxes.
Mariposa Mountain Riders
Celebrates History!

James Heth - Mountain Shadows
Is it true that Jackson Pollack and others too may have acquired inspirations for paintings from Mountain Shadows?
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

8-18-07
The Stanislaus National Forest personnel are asking for your input on Off Highway Vehicle Routes!
OHV Route Designation

For an accurate School District Calendar!
District Calendar 2007-2008

James Heth - Karl Rove
There is much speculation regarding the resignation of Karl Rove. Many believe that he resigned in order to avoid having to testify before congress,...
James Heth - Karl Rove

A Friday late morning fire out on Tenaya Way near Ashworth Road had reports of a missing person, the person was located and the fire was out by the afternoon hours.

The Planning Commission Meeting results on Friday, 8/17/07 :
Above All Towing was approved a request to receive a conditional use permit to have automotive storage on Gold Leaf Drive across the street from their towing business along with a building no taller than 45 feet.

The commissioner's discussed a quick fix to the road standards with public input for around three hours with the final vote approving the road standards that was presented to them by county planners with just three minor revisions in wording and footnoting despite pleas by the public to reduce certain aspects of those standards relating to Average Daily Traffic numbers.

Way to go Dianne Fritz!
Supervisor Dianne Fritz has arranged to have the sidewalks steam cleaned in downtown Mariposa on Tuesday, August 21^st . The steam cleaning will commence at 7:30 a.m. and finish at 10:00 a.m.. In order to prevent water leaking into your store, on Monday evening please place a towel under the front door (inside your building). The work is being performed by the County of Mariposa Public Works Department. Your cooperation in placing a towel under the door is greatly appreciated.

8-17-07

The Chef's Corner By Bill Mitchell
Phytochemicals & Stuffed Turkey Breast with Pine Nuts, Raisins and Apples
One of the best things in life is the variety of foods there are in the world, being vegetable, meats or fruits.
The Chef's Corner By Bill Mitchell

Mariposan Ponders Congressional Run
Campaign funding and US exit from Iraq target issues for Mariposa's Citizen Paul Weiss as he explores unique candidacy for 19th Congressional District.
Mariposan Ponders Congressional Run

Start your Friday with an inspirational story
you will tell your friends about!
A 12 year old boy, baseball and
Chron's disease.
From the Detroit Free Press:
Alec's at bat

What to do this weekend?
Goldrushcam Out And About Weekend Edition Covering Yosemite National Park, Mariposa, Eastern Madera County, Tuoulumne County and Calaveras County

Reminder: Today
Planning Commission: Friday,August 17, 2007, 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Board Chambers-Agenda: August 17, 2007
&
Road Standards Amendment
#2007-124 Road Standards Amendment

8-16-07

The local hotels and motels are in a discussion phase to put a self-imposed fee of up to 1% of their room rates in a fund that will be used strictly for promoting Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park
Tourism Director, Leroy Radanovich estimates that over $960,000 could be raised with this fee according to preliminary figures after watching the TOT tax rise this year due to increased tourism!
This fee would be independent of Mariposa County and controlled by the private tourism bureau.

The Merced River Flow Continues
To Decrease
Although the Merced River continues to drop it is still not at historical lows but restrictions are being put in place in Yosemite National Park.
The Merced River Flow Continues
To Decrease

Mariposa County is not in the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution District, but there is an air Quality Alert out today for the Valley and Oakhurst area because of the smoke from the Zaca Fire down south. Seems likely that the smoke will make it's way over parts of Mariposa County!
National Weather Service -
Air Quality Alert
And for more info:
The Zaca Fire

Dr.Mosher, Health Officer for Mariposa County alerted us to this canned food recall:
Chili Products (Botulism) Recall
(Includes Canned Chili, Stew, Hash, BBQ, Gravy, and Pet Food Products)
Click the Link Below for the List of Recalled Products:
http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/

Star Testing results are out for Mariposa County Schools! Look for a report later!

Mariposa County Chamber Of Commerce August Mixer

Wilderness Marijuana Bust
On Tuesday, August 14, 2007 Mariposa County sheriff’s deputies, assisted by the Mariposa County probation department, raided an illegal wilderness marijuana garden, located in a rugged area within the Sierra National Forest, on Crows Peak, Mariposa County.
Wilderness Marijuana Bust

Mariposa Evenings this weekend:
The Mariposa County Arts Council and its sponsors will present two groups playing for the first time on the Arts Park stage for Mariposa Evenings. On Friday August 17^th we present “Big Nation”, and on Saturday August 18^th “The Well” will perform.
Listing Of Things To Do In Mariposa County

8-15-07
THE MARIPOSA DRUG COMPANY
As of Thursday, August 2, 2007, the Mariposa Drug Company ceased to exist. The name will go on in Mariposa County history, just as the Mariposa Drug Store, the J. J. Cook Drug Store and perhaps others, but at least for the foreseeable future no Drug Store will carry that name.
Leroy Radanovich - THE MARIPOSA DRUG COMPANY

The Mariposa County School Bus Routes are Online!
Thank You Transporation Director, Bob Morse!
07-08 Bus Routes

The SDA Camp in Wawona public comment period is now closed and the Mariposa County Board Of Supervisors is going into deliberations on the project October 16, 2007
at the Government Center in Mariposa.
Along with that deliberation, public comments that were received at the public meeting at Goat Meadows on August 14, 2007 will be compiled by planning staff and given to the supervisors.

8-14-07
Tonight at 6:00PM at Chocolate Soup
Historic Mariposa County Business Association invites businesses to come out and help make plans for Christmas in Mariposa!

8-13-07

Reminder: For Tuesday:
SDA Camp Meeting in Fish Camp
@ 11:00 AM
Sierra Sun Times - Mariposa, California County Government News

Mariposa County School District Meeting - August 16, 2007

Mariposa County Shoulder Tap Results
In An Arrest
On Friday, August 10, 2007 the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office, working with two minors, completed the eighth of at least ten Shoulder Tap Decoy Operations over the next many months. The evening’s operation ended with one arrest.
Mariposa County Shoulder Tap Results
In An Arrest

August 13, 2007 - Smoky Days
The smoke in the air that is really prevalent at sunrise and sunset is the result of two fires burning down south and then southerly winds carrying the smoke northward over Mariposa County.
August 13, 2007 - Smoky Days

Karl Rove to Resign August 31!

A fascinating talk at the History Center and Museum yesterday as Tom Philips talked about the Odd Fellows Organization, Sheldon Ball discussed the Masons, Barbara Albright talked about the Native Daughters of the Golden West and Frank Long gave a history lesson on the Clampers that was not to be missed!

8-12-07
Forget Hot August Nights, Let's Go To Detroit For The Annual Dream Cruise!
Detroit News Online | Dream Cruise
& Just For Fun
MARK PHELAN | 2007 DREAM CRUISE: After 50 years, classic Chevy is car that dreams are made of

The Steller's Jay
Steller's Jays are very pretty birds that don't seem to be particularly shy of people. Although they are lovely to look at, they have very harsh voices. The Steller's are one of the noisiest birds in the woods, right up there with the Crows and Woodpeckers
Linda Gast - Steller's Jay

Mountain Shadows
A stroll into the mountain shadows can at times be not only interesting, but exciting as well; for one can encounter some of the delightful creatures that dwell in those shadows.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

At the Mariposa Museum & History Center today: Multiple Special Speakers!
mariposa museum

Larry Atwood of Mariposa:
The Modesto Bee | Just Plane Fun: Commemorative Air Force creates living legacy

8-11-07
In Oakhurst Today:
Sierra Saturday Art Hop - August 11th 2007 - 11AM to 5PM
Featured Artists - Richard Moore and Adrian Castelo.
Richard and Adrian will be raku firing at Williams gallery all day on Saturday. Come join us and experience the time honored dance with earth, air, fire, and water!
Williams Gallery West - Art Hop

The Perseid Meteor Shower is back !
Tonight and Tomorrow get somplace where it is really dark, maybe Glacier Point or Tuolumne Meadows!
The 2007 peak of the Perseid meteor shower » Radio Shows | Earth & Sky
&
NASA - Great Perseids

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

A Desert Tragedy
Once upon a time way out in the desert there was a tiny little country with houses, stores, water systems, olive groves, palm trees, electric power plants, schools, universities and a number of other amenities usually found in a nominally civilized country.
James Heth - A Desert Tragedy

8-10-07
My Mother Lode.com - Coulterville Resident Killed In J-59 Accident

Marijuana Garden Raided Near
Lake McClure
On Wednesday, August 8, 2007 Mariposa County sheriff’s deputies, assisted by the Mariposa County probation department and by Yosemite National Park Rangers, raided four illegal wilderness marijuana gardens, located in rugged areas near the Merced River and Lake McClure.
Marijuana Garden Raided Near Lake McClure

8-09-07

Watch Sara Sandrik walk across the Merced River! See Gold Sluicers!
ABC30.com: Merced River Showing Signs Of Drought

At the Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Chambers last night the Upper Merced River Watershed Council held a public meeting to listen to a presentation by Helena Rodriguez of the Sierra Nevada Alliance about climate change and how it is affecting the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Around 20- 25 people showed up to watch a Power Point demo on how the world is changing due to warming, especially the Sierra Nevada. One of the main talking points was about reduced snow packs in the mountains and the population that is still expanding in California.How nature and wildlife is trying to adapt to the warmer weather was also explained. After the demo a question and answer period had a lot of residents asking what they can do now at a local level to affect a change.

8-08-07

Last Nights School Board Meeting:
The policy on search and seizure will be brought back to the board again after some language is worked out.
The board voted to have a meeting with the
Big Oak Flat / Groveland School District about how they can share resources between their schools to help the students and save districts money.
Teaching positions will be added in the district with percentages of whole teaching positions added here and there as the district struggles with budgets!

Yesterday's Board of Supervisors Meeting:
Rural Media Arts had the meeting before the supervisors for a $25,000 grant put off for a couple of weeks.
Keith Williams, Register of Voters for Mariposa County, gave an update on the Sequoia Voting Systems, affirming what we mentioned yesterday about the voting machines in the county.
The Budget hearings will be on Sept 10, 2007
as Mariposa County CAO, Rick Benson, is looking at a modest increase in the budget over last year, but has concerns over state funding as the state still does not have a budget and cuts could be made to the counties to balance the state budget.

From the Bee:
The Modesto Bee | Next, Please:
Another family turns over old pharmacies to a national chain

8-07-07

Is Mariposa County going to use Paper Ballots in the election?
Looks Like It!
Voting Systems County By County
&
Conditional Reapproval
Their will be one electronic Sequoia model at each polling place for the disabled, but anyone can use it.

Reminder: Today:
Board of Supervisors Meeting @9:00AM
The Budget, The Tarp-O-Matic, Sixth Street Cinema!
And :
School Board meeting @12:00 PM

See Linda Gast's Slideshow Special of the
SPCA YARD SALE BLOWOUT AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL!
Mariposa SPCA

Substitute Bus Drivers Wanted!
Mariposa County Unified School District has openings for bus drivers. MCUSD will pay for your training! If you are interested in joining our team, contact Bob Morse at 742-0275 x317.

Competitors and Vendors wanted for “Blazin Hog” Festival
Competitors and Vendors wanted for the “Blazin Hog” Competition Barbeque and Zydeco Music Festival being held on Saturday, September 15, 2007, from noon to 8:00 P.M., at the Fairgrounds, in Mariposa, CA.
Out And About In Mariposa County

Mariposa School District - Board of Trustees Agenda 8-07-2007

El Portal Road Reconstruction Alternatives
A study done for the park service examines the impacts to the local communities.
El Portal Road Reconstruction Alternatives

Just how hot was July?
Read the weather stats and find out!
JULY 2007 CLIMATOLOGICAL SUMMARY FOR BAKERSFIELD, FRESNO AND MARIPOSA COUNTY

8-05-07
The Rufous Hummingbird - By Linda Gast
Bright orange streaks of light started appearing at the hummingbird feeders a week ago and then the combat began. I knew that the warriors of the Hummingbird world had returned.
Linda Gast - The Rufous Hummingbird

Another day without any further news on
Ottorrina Bonaventura, the missing hiker in the Yosemite High Sierra region of the park

James Heth - Mountain Shadows
In some strange way summer skies are different than skies of the rest of the year and combined with mountain shadows they can at times be quite spectacular. When walking among a group of oak trees if one looks up, the oak leaves seem to dance and sparkle in the sunlight when a slight breeze turns their leaves.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

8-04-07
Before you head out to The Sultry Summer Shindig in Coulterville today, stop by the SPCA in Mariposa for a yard sale blowout and a Ice Cream Social that starts at 10:00 AM

Another day without any further news on
Ottorrina Bonaventura, the missing hiker in the Yosemite High Sierra region of the park

James Heth - Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
Well over a year ago the United States Supreme Court ruled that the USA must adhere to the rules set forth in the Geneva Conference regarding the treatment of prisoners held by the CIA in various prisons around the world.
James Heth - Enhanced Interrogation Techniques

8-02-07
News10.net - Woman Hiker Missing in Yosemite

Sixth Street Cinema Redtagged due to its condition and not having the proper process in place for conducting a theatre.

8-01-2007
Sixth Street Cinema
Redtagged!

The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell
It's important to remember it's not so much of what you eat, as is how much you eat of it, if your watching your weight or your heart. It all has to do with your body metabolism.
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

7-31-2007
Looks like July 2007 weather wise will be the coolest
July in three years!

Reminder:
No Board Of Supervisors Meeting Today!

7-30-07

Acorn Cooperative Preschool is now enrolling students ages 0-5 to start August, when the school returns from summer vacation. The preschool, which meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 am – 12 pm at Hansen Hall in the Mariposa Lutheran Church, will begin Tuesday, August 28th.
ACORN COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL IS ENROLLING KIDS NOW FOR FALL 2007

This Weekend, The Wait Is Almost Over!
Coulterville, California 5th Annual Sultry Summer Shindig Saturday - August 4 - 2007

Monday Memories!
Older (The Bangles) and Even Older
(The Mamas & The Papas) !!
Music Videos

7-29-07
Linda Gast - Fun At The Mariposa County Pool
On a hot summer day I visited the swimming pool at the Mariposa County Park. A large number of kids from the parks Day Camp program were enjoying themselves and keeping cool in the pool.
Linda Gast - Fun At The Mariposa County Pool

Looks like Mariposa Representative George Radanovich is backing Rudy Giuliani!
Giuliani Announces California Leadership Team:
California State Co-Chairs:
George Radanovich, United States Congressman
JoinRudy2008 - Press Releases

James Heth - Mountain Shadows
People in Mariposa spend more on flowers than the average community does. Why this lust for more and more flowers is hard to comprehend. Particularly considering that often we actually destroy flowers believing them to be weeds.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

A fantastic BBQ was held the other day as Above All Towing sponsored a mixer by the Mariposa Chamber Of Commerce. If there is a better BBQ we have not tasted it yet!
Above All Towing has a nicely laid out and clean shop with enough tow vehicles to haul anything out of anywhere!
It was too bad, the Mariposa Board of Supervisors were having a ballot count at six in the evening for the Don Pedro Fire District as I had to leave and report on the ballot count. Finally after an hour delay the meeting started with only the Sierra Sun Times there as a reporter in the audience, ten minutes later two residents of the Don Pedro area showed up. The Ballots were counted and I left at about 7:30 PM.
Rushing back to the mixer, it was over with and I guess I was very lucky to have had the two ribs earlier!
If you are thinking about joining the Chamber of Commerce, I highly recommend it as it is a great way to meet fellow business owners and the servings at the mixers are a great bonus!

7-28-07
Time to take a hike!
Dow industrials and S&P 500 index conclude worst week in 5 years!
Light, sweet crude settled up $2.06 at $77.01 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, just a penny shy of its all-time high!

Want a new license plate?
The Sierra Nevada Conservancy has a new design! The Sierra Fund

YARTS will not appeal the Planning Commission denial for the bus stop that was proposed in Midpines!

Another little shaker yesterday 19 miles Southeast of Yosemite that registered 2.6 Info for Earthquake
With the 'Ring of Fire' active this year, Japan a few days ago, San Francisco also this month, we could probably expect more of these from the fault lines under California! Earthquake Insurance anyone?
To read more on Earthquakes:
USGS Earthquake Hazards

James Heth - Why not Lie?
On March 10^th, then, Attorney General John Ashcroft, lying near death while recovering from major surgery in an intensive care ward, received two visitors. One was Alberto Gonzales, White House Consul, the other Andrew Card, Chief of Staff.
James Heth - Why not Lie?

7-27-07

According to Mariposa Fire County Fire Chief
Jim Wilson, when this new map is released in 2008 besides new building codes being put in place the insurance companies may be out re-rating your property!

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, California State Fire Marshal’s Office New Wildland Building Standards Tied to Fire Hazard Zones Prompt Statewide Map Update: Wildland Hazard & Building Codes
Maps For Mariposa County PDF or JPG
Type your address in here, to see how your property could be designated:
California Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps

Mariposa County Unified School District
Budget for 2007/ 2008 is posted!
User Friendly Budget

Reminder:
Fish Camp Community Planning Advisory Council
Next meeting scheduled for Friday,
July 27, 2007, 6:45 p.m.., Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Agenda: July 27, 2007

7-26-07
Incredibly Fast!
Margie Williams, Mariposa Clerk of the Board of Supervisors has the Summary of Proceedings - Draft, for the Tuesday's
7-24-07 Board of Supervisors meeting up on the County website: July 24, 2007 Draft
( A 'Summary of Proceedings' are like streamlined 'Minutes' of what took place at a meeting)

Harvest Weekend in the Country -
Mariposa, California Agri-Nature Trail September 29 - 30, 2007

New!
Photos from the Highway 49 South / Allred Road fire
on Saturday July 21, 2007
Highway 49 South / Allred Road Fire On 7/21/2007

7-25-07
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell
Now that the Garden season is in full swing and everybody is enjoying it’s bounty, there are a few maintenance duties and tips that make it come full circle. And A Baja Salad Recipe!
The Chef’s Corner By Chef Bill Mitchell

Tim and Anita Bryant of Mariposa
announce the birth of a baby girl.
Sierra Sun Times Announcements

Cousin Jack's Kids At The Bug

Mariposa County Fire Department News
This summer, the National Incident Management Situation Report has consistently reported “extreme fire behavior,” “very active fire behavior,” or “rapid rates of spread” on large fires in most geographic areas. Obviously, similar fire behavior is occurring daily on numerous smaller initial and extended attack fires in the same areas.
Mariposa County Fire Department News

7-24-07
Quick Hits from the 6:00PM
Board Of Supervisors meeting:
Don Pedro Fire District Voters, by a vote of
almost a 2-1 majority, 66% for an approval of paying $80.00 a year for improved property or $16.00 a year for unimproved property to have fire protection 24/ 7 365 days a year. 1,926 ballots were mailed out and about 43% (836) were returned.

Raindrops in Lushmeadows this morning!

Wilderness Marijuana Bust
On Friday, July 20^th, 2007 at about 3:00 p.m. fire agencies responded to a wild land fire on Feliciana Mountain, in the Midpines area of Mariposa County.
Wilderness Marijuana Bust

Mariposa County Fire Department June 2007,
Monthly Volunteer Activity

7-23-07
The appellants who are appealing a 1987 Manufactured Home to be placed in Coulterville in the Historic Design Overlay District found out at the Planning Commission meeting on Friday July 20, 2007 that they will have to come back in early September 2007, as the commissioners have instructed staff to come back with more information before they make a recommendation!
Specifically they want to know more about the National Historic District in Coulterville and what parts of the town are covered by the designation. Also they would like the age of the home to be verified and they would like a legal interpretation on a couple of County / State codes.

Hazardous Heat
A total of 46 people perished in the Hanford County Forecast and Warning area during the extreme heat of July 2006 and another 18 individuals were injured. Many of those who died or were injured were victims simply because they did not take precautions to protect themselves to dangers of hot weather
Hazardous Heat

7-22-07
Mariposa Fire:
ABC30.com: Highway 49 Was Closed During Wildfire Video!

Highway 49 South / Allred Road Fire On 7/21/2007

Linda Gast - Acorn Woodpecker
Have you heard what might be interpreted as somebody cackling out in the woods? It is the Acorn Woodpeckers calling to each other. They are loud boisterous birds of medium-size, clown-faced with a red crown, glossy black-and-white head, and glaring white eyes
Linda Gast - Acorn Woodpecker

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIEITES ONLINE
This is the season when research folks like to hit the road to visit document repositories, history museums, visit the old homesteads, cemeteries, attend family reunions, etc.
CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL AND GENEALOGICAL SOCIEITES ONLINE

James Heth - Mountain Shadows
Hites Cove on the south fork of the Merced River is mostly noted for its exceptional beauty and many people often hike there to enjoy not just the beauty of it but the fine swimming in the icy cold snow waters among rainbow and brown trout. But, there is still another reason Hites Cove is to be remembered and that is Lucy Hite.
James Heth - Mountain Shadows

7-21-07
Mariposa Fire:
Highway 49 South / Allred Road Fire On 7/21/2007

Coulterville
ABC30.com: Entire North Valley Town Out of Water

Mariposa County Unemployment Report For June 2007

Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce July 24, 2007 Mixer

Kiwanis Sounds of Music Preschool Academy

Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce
July 24, 2007 Mixer

Vacation Time?
Over three thousand young American men and women in the prime of life so far have been killed in Iraq and many thousands more have been severely wounded. Additionally, well over 600,000 Iraqis have been killed and each and every day these killings continue. Almost all the Benchmarks set by congress have failed miserably.
James Heth - Vacation Time?

On You Tube!
Mariposa Garden and Critters
By Mariposa Resident Glenn Kangiser!
Relax and Enjoy! Thanks Glenn!
Mariposa and Yosemite Videos

The Mariposa SPCA is having a Ice Cream Social and a Yard Sale on Saturday 8-04-07
Mariposa SPCA

Volunteer, or attend a rummage sale!
MariposaHabitat.org
Saturday 8-04-07

7-20-07

News Brief:
At the Mariposa County Board of Education Meeting on Thursday Night:
Mariposa Middle School will return to a 2 semester system for school year 07/08.

The Board would like the new school superintendent to meet with the land owner on the possible donation of land to the school district.

The Board also approved the bussing schedule for 07/08 which while costing the district over $30,000 a year more, as there will be no middle school layover, the students will be bussed home as school lets out for the day!

A big tip of the hat to Transportation Director Bob Morse from the Sierra Sun Times for working with the drivers, teachers, and parents on this bussing schedule.

Mr. Morse also said that the new bussing schedule will be online in a few days!

Also a big tip of the hat to new school superintendent Randy Panietz for canceling a staff development day at the school, thus saving the district about $45,000 by incorporating the day into another day and spending just under $9,000 to achieve the same purpose!

Reminder:
Planning Commission: Friday, July 20, 2007, 9:00 a.m. Government Center, Board Chambers-
On the Agenda:
Appellants are appealing a 1987 Manufactured Home to be placed in Coulterville in the Historic Design Overlay District Keenom

7-19-09
A weekend of the Blues awaits you at the Mariposa Art Park with
"Electric Blue" on Friday July 20th, and Mike Hammar and the Nails on Saturday July 21st.
Out And About In Mariposa County

Why we live in the foothills of California!
Burbed.com

Next weeks Board Of Supervisors Agenda
is posted!
County Government News

Reminder:
Thursday 7-19-07 5:30 PM
Adoption of School Bus Routes for SY 2007-08
Mariposa County Board Of Education Meeting
Why are these proposed bus routes not posted on the school web site?

Reminder:
Mariposa Gem Club Membe