MARIPOSA — In a major step forward for local healthcare philanthropy, the John C. Fremont Hospital Foundation has officially contracted with Miranda Wass to serve as its first-ever Executive Administrator. This new role marks a historic milestone for the all-volunteer Foundation, which has supported healthcare in the region for over 40 years. Boosting Support & Strategy Board President Heather Bernikoff ...

CENTRAL VALLEY — According to reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a routine traffic stop on southbound State Route 99 recently led to a major discovery. With the help of K9 Shei, Officers recovered both illegal drugs and an unregistered firearm. K9 Uncovers Drugs & Gun During the traffic stop, the officer noticed that the driver and passenger appeared ...

MARIPOSA COUNTY — A months-long investigation into one of the most severe child sexual abuse material (CSAM) cases in Mariposa County history has led to the arrest of 58-year-old Robert Brooks. Arrest Tied to Digital Evidence Deputies located and arrested Brooks on April 15, 2025, in Calaveras County, where he had been working. They transported him to the Mariposa County ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — All hazard reduction burning in Mariposa and Madera Counties will require a CAL FIRE burn permit, according to an announcement from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit (MMU). The requirement will take effect at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 1st. This applies to ALL residential and property owners who plan to burn ...

MADERA COUNTY — An investigation by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office has led to the arrest of two Fairmead residents and the recovery of approximately $80,000 worth of stolen property connected to a string of 13 commercial burglaries across the county. Investigation Uncovers Crime Pattern Detectives from the Sheriff’s Investigations Unit identified key similarities among a series of break-ins. These ...

MADERA — In a heartfelt ceremony, Madera County officials gathered to commend Deputy Jessica Martinez for her courageous actions, which led to the rescue of a young child last month. Recognition & Commendation The Madera County Supervisors presented Deputy Martinez with a proclamation recognizing her quick thinking and skilled intervention that saved a toddler’s life. With extraordinary calm and precision, ...

MADERA COUNTY — A significant narcotics operation was halted in Madera County, with the seizure of 80 pounds of methamphetamine. This major bust led to the arrest of two Southern California men, Juan Salgado, 41, and Fernando Rascon, 39. Both face multiple felony charges, including sales, distribution, and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. They are currently in Madera County jail. Task ...

MADERA COUNTY — Madera Community Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in Madera County, welcomed back its first patients after a closure that lasted over two years. The reopening marks a significant milestone for the county’s 160,000 residents, bringing essential health services back to some of the area’s most vulnerable populations. Collaboration Leads to Reopening The hospital’s doors reopened thanks to ...

MARIPOSA COUNTY — The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has announced an indefinite closure of State Route 140 (SR-140) near Briceburg in Mariposa County following a severe debris slide late Monday night. Incident Details At around 10:00 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025, a significant debris slide blocked both lanes of SR-140. Caltrans and the California High Patrol (CHP) acted ...

MADERA COUNTY — Officials from the county have announced plans for a significant upgrade to Highway 41. The project, which starts in 2026, has committed $180 million to expand a congested section of this vital route. Therefore, this project promises to ease the notorious traffic jams that plague daily commuters between Avenue 10 1/2 and Avenue 15. Project Details: Fixing ...