MADERA — Valley Children’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) has earned its fifth silver-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN).  This recognition further affirms the PICU’s commitment to high-quality patient care and an inclusive work culture.  Notably, this award places Valley Children’s PICU among the top-performing units nationwide.  It is recognized by systematic, ...

COARSEGOLD — The Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, a beloved local landmark with more than five decades of history, has new owners ready to bring fresh energy to the site.  Ryan and Melissa Steward, a family from Friant, have taken on the task of revitalizing the property while preserving its rustic charm.  The couple’s plans promise to honor the past while preparing ...

Submitted by Lisa Morgan, UCCE Mariposa County Master Gardener As we fall into Autumn and then slide to Winter, we can feel less inspired to be in the garden. The pivot to Autumn and Winter chores, from splitting wood, covering cold-sensitive plants, and getting ready for the first snowfall, can seem daunting. But wait, how about a Fall/Winter Garden? There ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — This Fire Prevention Week (October 9-15), the American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter urges everyone to practice their two-minute home fire escape plan and test their smoke alarms to stay safe from the nation’s most frequent disaster. Two minutes is the amount of time that fire experts say you may have to safely escape a home fire ...

CALIFORNIA — The American Pickers team is gearing up to hit the road again.  This time, they are returning to California in November 2024.  Known for their adventures across America, Mike Wolfe and his crew are excited to explore the hidden treasures locked away in the Golden State.  Possibilities are endless with California’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Hunting for Hidden ...

Submitted By Michele Nowak-Sharkey, UC Master Food Preserver of Mariposa County September is National Food Safety Education Month This month is an opportunity to actively prevent foodborne illness, known as “food poisoning.” The federal government estimates that there are about 48 million cases of foodborne illness annually – about 1 in 6 Americans annually. Each year, these illnesses result in ...

MODESTO – Doctors Medical Center (DMC) recently received two recognitions from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and one from the American College of Cardiology. DMC was reverified as a Level II Trauma Center by the ACS. DMC holds the distinction as the region’s first Level II Verified Trauma Center in 2008. It has held that designation since then. Separately, ...

AHWAHNEE—You’ve seen me before, and I’m back again. I’d really like this to be the last time I get my name in the paper—at least in terms of looking for my permanent home. I’d be your best friend forever if you supply me with lots and lots of toys that have squeakers, ’cause I love to hear myself make lots ...

Submitted by Michele Nowak-Sharkey Join us in welcoming our new “crop” of Master Gardeners to Mariposa and Madera counties! The class of 2024 graduated on May 11, 2024, after 17 weeks of in-depth training online and in person. The training class had students from both Mariposa and Madera counties. The graduates in the back row will be volunteering in Mariposa ...

AHWAHNEE—Hi, my name is Sweet Pea, and I am just as sweet as my name. I came here to the lovely EMC SPCA Animal Care and Adoption Center due to an unfortunate circumstance.  The hooman I used to lived with had to go into a care home, and—much as she wanted to—couldn’t take me with her. So I need a ...