SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is recruiting volunteers who reside and travel in rural and tribal communities to participate in the latest testing phase of a “road charge” pilot. Up to 500 volunteers will participate in a seven-month simulated road charge system, which charges drivers based on the number of miles they travel rather than the amount ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES–Hazardous conditions due to icy roads are causing school delays this morning. Also, traffic collisions and hazards are being reported. Please use caution on the roads and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.   We will update this article throughout the day as more information is available.   Traffic Collisions 12:35 pm Type: Trfc Collision-1141 Enrt Location: ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES—The National Weather Service Hanford Office predicts a storm system will drop southward through California on Sunday and Monday, bringing a chance of light rain and mountain snow to the area. Freezing temperatures are likely across the San Joaquin Valley Monday and Tuesday nights, with upper 20s in rural areas. This will bring a chance of generally light precipitation, ...

YOSEMITE LAKES—The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is reporting a traffic collision has taken place on Highway 41 near Yosemite Springs Parkway. The incident is reportedly a head-on collision with 3 vehicles involved. Injuries are unknown at this time, and an ambulance is en route. There is some lane blockage, so please avoid the area if possible. We will update this ...

OAKHURST — This Valentine’s Day, come stay at the Queen’s Inn by the River and enjoy a special experience. Wine tasting and food service available at their on-site Idle Hour Winery and Kitchen. Located just a few moments from Yosemite National Park, Queen’s Inn offers one of the finest lodging experiences in our area. The inn is fully renovated and provides ...

OAKHURST — A feast for the eyes and palate, the European-inspired Elderberry House showcases flavorful dishes with the finest local, seasonal, and organic ingredients from nearby Central Valley farms. Working in partnership with the restaurant’s Head Chef Ethan de Graaff, Chef Chris Flint’s inspired menu selections complemented by an extensive wine list curated with 800 labels representing wines from around ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — In the past year, two new drugs have been approved for Alzheimer’s: Lecanemab (the most recent) and Aduhelm. Both these drugs received a lot of press upon their approval by the FDA, and both promised that they could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s if given in the early stages. Both drugs are expensive and not covered by insurance. ...

MADERA COUNTY — The 41st Annual Madera County Academic Decathlon speech, interview, and Super Quiz competitions will be held on Saturday, February 4 at Madera South High School. See map below. The 2023 topic is “The American Revolution and the New Nation.” “We are so excited to be back in person this year after hosting the event online these past ...

MADERA COUNTY — Enjoy the best of Madera County on the Fossils to Falls Trail, a four-day road trip! On your trip, collect the Welcoming Committee’s trading cards at ten destinations and discover the best attractions in Yosemite’s Southern Gateway. Participants can use their trading cards to enter the Yosemite Adventure Contest grand prize drawing. Day 1 Start your journey ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES —  Mother Nature is the best form of therapy. The sound of roaring falls and smell of blooming wildflowers. The deafening silence of freshly fallen snow on the ground. Recreate Responsibly (PDF) Not Just Yosemite But ALL Outdoor Lands Although the main attraction is Yosemite National Park, the idea of recreating responsibly shouldn’t be applied only to the ...