By Bob Labozetta (UC Master Gardener, Mariposa) Starting plants from seeds can save you money, give you the option of trying interesting varieties, and bring you closer to Mother Nature’s methods of propagation. Different seeds have different germination rates, so refer to seed catalog or seed packet directions to determine when and how to start your seeds. Visit http://cemariposa.ucanr.edu/Master_Gardener/ for ...

Frogs and birds were singing their tunes and turtles were basking in the sun on a beautiful day as I hiked with the Sierra Foothill Conservancy (SFC), exploring trails in the Stockton Creek Preserve. Recent land acquisitions have expanded this preserve, a partnership with SFC and Mariposa Public Utilities District (MPUD), to 700 acres and grants have improved and added ...

Freshen up your St. Patrick’s Day menu with easy and light sandwiches inspired by the traditional color of the festivities. These open-faced noshes can be perfect for lunch, snack time or even as an appetizer for get-togethers with friends and family. Layered with a smooth cream cheese and mozzarella mixture then topped with crisp cucumber and a stem of green ...

NORTH FORK — The North Fork Boosters owns and operates the North Fork Recreation Center, hosting community events and renting out to community organizations and private parties. Among the many events held at this venue is the Summer Youth Program that has been running for over 60 years. The Summer Youth Program is Monday-Friday from noon to 5 p.m. during ...

A message from PG&E: At Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), we have taken a stand that catastrophic wildfires will stop. Working with our customers and communities, we are installing new equipment, using state-of-the-art technology and developing innovative safety solutions, with the goal of being safer each and every day. In 2022, our ongoing wildfire safety efforts will include: Beginning ...

How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “Yum!” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year. These mint brownies have three ...

About 10 months ago a dream was born. Robin Ralston, music presenter and host of the Coolwater Concerts house concert series in Ahwahnee since 2007, mentioned she’d like to do something to support the completion of the Eastern Madera County SPCA animal shelter. She asked musician Bob Kaspar if he’d consider doing a benefit concert. Despite some misgivings, he agreed. ...

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — The National Weather Service has issued a Freeze Watch for the San Joaquin Valley for sub-freezing low temperatures Tuesday night, Wednesday night, and Thursday night. The County of Madera, the City of Madera, and the City of Chowchilla have established the following locations as Warming Centers during times of extreme winter cold. The Centers will be open ...

The Million Dollar Road led us to Stevenson Creek Falls, its water dropping 1,200′ as it leaped over the rocks down to the San Joaquin River. A few wildflowers along the way put smiles on our faces. Where: Sierra National Forest, Southern California EdisonDistance: 12.44 Miles (About 7 miles roundtrip to Stevenson Creek Falls)Difficulty: ModerateElevation Range: 1,186′ to 2,387′Elevation Gain: ...

A letter from Margaret Mims, Sheriff – Coroner – Public Administrator Fresno County Sheriff’s Office February 18, 2022 After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire at the end of my current term as Fresno County Sheriff – Coroner – Public Administrator. This decision does not come easily as I still get such satisfaction out of public service, ...