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 ...

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 ...

Sharleena’s story: “the strength behind the boots.” My husband is Nick Robison, 34, and he is a Squad Leader on the Sierra Hotshots based out of Batterson in Oakhurst. I am Sharleena Robison, 31, and have been married to Nick for five years, but have been together for six years. We have a son named Kaden, age 4 ½ and a ...

MOUNTAIN AREA — With so much talk about mosquitoes in the news every day, it seems like a good idea to use a proper repellent. It’s not just a matter of inconvenience to swat away a few bugs. Instead, it’s become more of a necessity to use some kind of repellent for the purpose of proactive healthcare. The market is jammed with products ...

Written by Celeste Wheeler — OAKHURST — Bobcats and mountain lions and black bears, oh my! These are just a few of the wild animals prominent in Yosemite National Park and the surrounding foothill communities that Park Ranger Christine Raines will discuss in a workshop scheduled at the Oakhurst Branch Library. The event takes place on Saturday, Aug. 27 from ...

OAKHURST — Area residents who love to shop and also love animals will want to know that local volunteers have set up an account with Giving Assistant they say allows 2% of your Amazon Smile purchases to be designated for the EMC SPCA. So, while you shop, you can also help fund the building of a new, state-of-the-art no kill Eastern Madera County ...

Written by Celeste Wheeler — OAKHURST — While most of us would respond to a proposed industrial development next door with the slogan “NIMBY” or “NOT in My Back Yard,” the reaction should most definitely be quite the opposite with respect to birds. A presentation by John K. Cross at the Oakhurst Library Community Room from 10:30 a.m. to noon ...

NORTH FORK — The North Fork History Group has a booklet in our archives entitled “History Notes on Grace Community Church.” It was written by Clara Radman, Dorothy Knoch and Rowena Kratzer. It covers a number of subjects but our History Mystery has to do with how the congregation obtained the church building. Prior to the present church building, services ...

SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST — “Tabletops to Domes” will be the focus of a guided tour along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway on Saturday, July 30. Join geologist Tom Burdette in an informative tour and discussion of the geology of the Sierra Nevada as observed along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, sharing the amazing events that have led to the present ...

OAKHURST — Ever wondered what there is to do around the mountain area? Come to the Oakhurst Branch Library to hear Judi Hussain explain the plethora of activities this marvelous area has to offer. Judi has been the Visitor Center Coordinator at Yosemite Sierra Visitor Center (now called Visit Yosemite | Madera County) for the past five years, and this weekend she’ll ...