O’NEALS — What’s the best way to show the progress of an effective education? That’s a loaded question. Some people believe it’s through test scores, while others are convinced that proof of learning is in the action or activity that results from the students’ work. Chawanakee School District’s Minarets High and Minarets Charter are finding a way to answer the ...

MADERA COUNTY — Oakhurst’s Robert Brosi, D.D.S. received a Crystal Tower Award Tuesday, Aug. 30 at the 13th Annual Business and Education Shareholders’ Luncheon hosted by the Madera County Compact. Both Dr. Brosi and Madera Agricultural Services were recognized for their partnership with Madera County schools in front of more than 175 business and community leaders. Each exemplifies the Madera County Compact’s mission, ...

AHWAHNEE — Hot Wasuma Nights annual car show went off smoothly over the weekend for Wasuma Elementary, with an excellent turn-out of vehicles registered, and plenty people coming out to see the action and support the school. The Wasuma School PTA organizers want to give a “big Wildcat thank you” to Sierra Tel, The Redwoods in Yosemite, Bass Lake Water Sports, ...

OAKHURST — Branches Books & Gifts has relocated to a newly renovated 1,500-square-foot storefront in the Old Mill Village Shopping Center. The store was previously located in the Junction Plaza Center. The new larger space allows the shop to expand its inventory and offer more books, educational toys and, as owner Anne Driscoll likes to say, other awesomeness. The bookshop opened ...

MADERA COUNTY — Sheriff Jay Varney is very pleased to welcome the two newest additions to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. “Nacho” is a one-and-a-half year old Belgian Malinois and “Gastone” is a two-year-old Belgian Malinois. Both dogs were imported from France. Deputy Logan Majeski will be Nacho’s handler and Deputy Eric Jackson will be Gastone’s handler. All four just ...

OAKHURST — Valley Caregiver Resource Center invites community members to a free family caregiver workshop on Understanding Difficult Behaviors of Dementia. Participants in the workshop who are unpaid caregivers will learn how to better understand what dementia is and what it is not, according to organizers. Practical tips will be offered to help family members or friends with dementia cope ...

Written by Virginia Eaton — The happy dance in which so many parents partake as their school age darlings head back to class might be somewhat diminished for those who have to refill their EpiPen prescription. EpiPens provide lifesaving doses of epinephrine to those who suffer from serious allergic reactions. But be prepared, given recent price increases you may need to ...

MOUNTAIN AREA — We noticed that National Dog Day was looming on the calendar, and decided to act on an impulse. Designated as Aug. 26, National Dog Day is one that needs no explanation for many, as canines are our constant companions, true sometimes most especially here in the foothills. We put the word out on SNO social media suggesting that people may ...

BASS LAKE — Special event doesn’t even begin to describe the excitement as the Tamed Fire Dancers bring their astounding pyrotechnic abilities to the Bass Lake Water Sports Marina for Labor Day weekend. The creative fire dancers will perform at 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 4 for one show only. “Tamed Fire is just like a Hawaiian luau, only hotter,” says Tom Tuso ...

OAKHURST — Yosemite High School FFA Boosters are gathering for a delicious dinner in a beautiful location, all for a good cause, and the community is invited to attend. The National FFA is a student-run organization that strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students, they say, by developing youth potential for premier leadership, personal growth and ...