Written by Sheila Smith — Perhaps you’ve heard about the rising popularity of Tai Chi. Maybe you’ve seen a sampling of its slow-motion movements. Perhaps you’ve heard it has many health benefits. It is the most popular form of group exercise in the entire world. What is it all about? What is Tai Chi? Tai Chi is an ancient form ...

OAKHURST — With the 20th Annual Mountain Heritage Days coming up a month from now, exciting plans continue to be made and fun work days are approaching. For anyone interested in joining in with preparation, arranging for a booth, having a float in the parade, or volunteering to help out on the day of the event, there’s still some time ...

OAKHURST — Sierra Children’s Preschool Program at Oakhurst Elementary School (OES) is accepting applications for enrollment in the 2016-2017 school year for the afternoon session, scheduled from 12:15 – 3:15 p.m.. Lunch is provided to all students enrolled. Applications are being accepted at the Oakhurst Elementary School office. Priority will be given to children: 1. Who are foster children (3-5 years ...

Submitted by Kris Randal —  MARIPOSA — After over four years of drought, perhaps you are wondering if you can still have a garden or maintain colorful and thriving landscapes.  If so, think about utilizing drought-tolerant California native plants! Join the Mariposa County UCCE Master Gardeners at the Board of Supervisors Chambers on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to ...

NORTH FORK — The Children’s Educational Foundation presents a night of Fun & Games for grownups at Bandit Town, USA, and all profits will benefit the Chawanakee Unified School District’s schools and programs. 21 and over can look forward to dice and card games, dinner, and prizes, along with the chance to have some fun and do some good for a ...

COUNTY — The Madera County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn residents once again to be on the lookout for mail theft. Mail theft continues to be a problem, especially in the more rural areas of the county where residents have roadside mail boxes. Stealing mail from an unsecured mailbox only takes a few seconds, but problems arising from the theft ...

Written by Ronnie Sweeting —  MARIPOSA — It’s the last weekend of the 2016 season of Music on the Green, the free summer concert series brought to you by The Mariposa County Arts Council and its many fine sponsors. This weekend at The Art Park in historic downtown Mariposa the series will feature two of the best we’ve ever presented: the Little Fuller ...

YOSEMITE — One of the preeminent Native American basket makers and tribal elders in California will lead two workshops this fall on the subjects of basket weaving and native food preparation. Julia Parker will take the helm for a pair of Yosemite Conservancy Experience Packages using the knowledge she’s gained as a respected elder and long-time cultural demonstrator in the park. ...

COARSEGOLD — A house that was spared from the flames yesterday afternoon burned to the ground in the early morning hours. A home on the northwest corner of Highway 41 and Black Oak Road was saved by firefighters yesterday when a fire that destroyed two outbuildings was stopped before it could damage the home. But this morning just after 3:30 ...

MOUNTAIN AREA — Temperatures are climbing once again this summer season. How will you stay cool? The Mariposa County Health Department recommends avoiding strenuous activity during the heat of the day, staying in a cool environment like an air conditioned home or business, relaxing in the shade while drinking plenty of water, or visiting the community pool facility. Outdoor activities ...