Written by Chawanakee Unified School District Superintendent Bob Nelson NORTH FORK – I got into the education business because I really like teaching. A lot. There is absolutely nothing like seeing a light come on in the eyes of a child, when you help them connect what they already understand to some new piece of information that you have shared ...

OAKHURST – Mountain Home School Charter (MHSC) students in 3rd through 8th grade have been very busy preparing for their school musical, “Fun with Numbers,” to be presented for one special showing only, on Thursday, Apr. 10, at the Yosemite High School Theater. The program begins at 5:30 p.m. and admission is absolutely free.

MARIPOSA – Do you love the smell of gunpowder in the morning? If so, please note: the Las Mariposas Civil War Group, in partnership with the American Civil War Association, invites the community to attend an authentic period weekend of living history this Saturday and Sunday, Apr. 12 and 13 just north of Mariposa.

COARSEGOLD – The Coarsegold Rodeo rides back into town for the 62nd year, on Friday, May 2 through Sunday, May 4. As always, the rodeo action happens at Bohna Arena on Road 415, a venue known for its top-notch views and top-quality competitors. Those in attendance can look forward to exhibits, food, vendors and pro-rodeo excitement for all ages.

COARSEGOLD – With a storm set to roll into the foothills tonight, and clouds already pulling together in the darkening day, my friend and I set out in search of our elusive winter and instead found only signs of spring. Mudge Ranch is a glorious place for a walk, at the top of Road 420 south of Deadwood. The streets ...

FRESNO – Yosemite High swimmers attended the Sue Renna Sprint Meet at Sunnyside High School on Saturday, Mar. 29. Varsity swim coach Brando Brokaw reports that several YHS swimmers made the finals. “Jeff Foster made finals in all three of his individual events,” says the coach.

OAKHURST – A special show is coming to “this provincial town,” as the Yosemite High School (YHS) Fine Arts Department brings to life the iconic Disney inspired musical “Beauty and the Beast” for the mountain community, beginning Wednesday, Apr. 23, at the YHS Theater. This musical adaptation of the 1991 animated film will be performed by 30 YHS students from ...

OAKHURST- Yosemite High School swam at home against Sierra on Thursday, Mar. 27, in the first League meet of the season. Varsity swim coach Brandon Brokaw said, “It’s good to get our first league win of the year!” The “pink cap,” signifying a stand-out performance, went to Girls Varsity swimmer and diver, Jordyn Ahrens. Here are scores and results:

OAKHURST – The Children’s Museum of the Sierra (CMOS) is raising butterflies throughout April in support of the Mariposa Butterfly Festival. Butterflies will be raised from eggs in the museum discovery center, and docents have organized some activities designed to enhance the spring project.

YOSEMITE – A fun family outing turned deadly last weekend when a Simi Valley teenager perished in the Merced River while trying to save his parents from the same fate in Yosemite National Park. Ranger Scott Gediman confirmed that Walter Gonzales Jr., 17, died from drowning on Sunday, Mar. 23.