Wildflowers, miners, gold mines, an old railroad bed and a beautiful but deadly river all have roles in this week’s blog. Oh, and can’t forget about the geese!Where: Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Merced River Recreation Management AreaDistance: 13.36 miles round trip but you can go shorter or longerDifficulty: EasyElevation Range: 1,001′ – 1,215′Elevation Total Ascent: 1,125′Date: March 7, 2022CALTOPO: ...

When celebrating with family, there is nearly nothing better than passing a light and sweet dessert around the table. Simple to make and easy to eat, this sweet dessert is a crowd favorite. With a fresh kick of lemon zest and crunch of shredded coconut, they are a bite-sized, delicious way to end your meal. They take little to no ...

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 ...

By Sal Maccarone Building a wooden structure without the use of nails, screws, fasteners or adhesive is not by any means a typical approach. It is time, patience and specific knowledge that can make such a thing possible. Wayo (or Japanese style) wooden architecture reflects the sensitivity, environment, and the “affection for gentle spaces” prevalent in early Japan. The Wayo ...

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 ...

OAKHURST–This week’s list of events features a little bit of everything from shades of the Scottish Highlands to the hoof-stomping dust of a cattle drive. There’s truly something for everyone this week. TUESDAY, MARCH 1 Meditation & Yoga Classes – Sunday through Friday Vary – See Schedule Metta Yosemite – Gifts – Meditation – Yoga 40359 Highway 41, Suite 1, ...

Fannie the Corgi wanted to go on a dog hike and I knew just the place. Not too far, not too steep, not too much snow and a little history thrown in along the Wawona Meadow Loop. Where: Yosemite National ParkDistance: 4.02 milesDifficulty: EasyElevation Range: 3,979′ – 4,219′Elevation Gain: 278′Date: February 17, 2022CALTOPO: CALTOPO: Hiking Wawona Meadow Loop with FannieDog Hike? ...

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. ...