Story by AnnaRose Chaney OAKHURST – At the start of summer 2014, fires began plaguing the land and people of our community. For some, the flames were no more than distant spirals of smoke and ash that blackened the air and left the sky a bitter red. To others, the flames were omens of fear and chaos, and with them ...

OAKHURST – The race for Honorary Mayor of Oakhurst kicked off on Friday, Apr. 17, at the Queen’s Inn, with the candidates cooking up dinner for guests as they launched their campaigns. Shirley Bailey, Bob Macaulay and Katie Davis have all thrown their hats into the ring.

MADERA COUNTY – Sheriff Varney is proud to announce that Sergeant Larry Rich, Deputy Warren Anderson, Deputy Eric Grijalva and Deputy Chris Williams were singled out to be honored by the American Red Cross at the annual Real Heroes Event in Fresno on Friday, Mar. 20. These four Madera County Sheriff’s deputies were selected as Real Heroes due to their ...

FRESNO — Four Madera County Sheriff’s deputies are among those to be honored during the American Red Cross Central Valley Real Heroes Event next Friday, for their efforts during the Courtney Fire last summer. The annual event recognizes local heroes in the Central Valley who are seemingly ordinary people but have touched the lives of community members through their selfless ...

We didn’t need to travel very far to get some exercise, let Sally stretch her legs and see some waterfowl. Bass Lake was only a short drive and we were treated to beautiful morning reflections in the lake that was fringed with ice.

MADERA COUNTY – Sheriff John Anderson announced today that the Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for the department’s Citizen on Patrol (COP) unit. Next week the Madera County Sheriff’s Office will hold two introductory meetings for citizens interested in joining the nationally recognized volunteer organization.

OAKHURST – As of 6 p.m., Road 426 through the Courtney Fire area has now been reopened to the public. An MCAlert has been issued to area residents, and Cal Fire has released official notice that the road is now open. Residents who need more information on the recovery process can call Madera County Office of Emergency Services at 559-675-7770.

OAKHURST – The Madera County Sheriff’s Office continues to host events through the rest of the week to help everyone sign up for MCAlert. Three more opportunities are available in Oakhurst for people to ask questions and get assistance in making sure they are registered to be alerted in the event of an emergency such as the Courtney Fire.

OAKHURST – Evacuation orders are being lifted for some residents in the Courtney Fire area. As of 6 p.m. today, residents along Road 426 between Courtney Lane and Suncrest Drive can return to their homes with identification. The area is still closed to the public. Residents who live along Road 426 between Suncrest Drive and Road 223 will not be ...

BASS LAKE – Potential participants have just one more day to register online for the annual Smokey Bear Run / Walk Race, happening this Saturday, Sept. 27, at Recreation Point, Bass Lake. After that, it’s day-of registration. This year’s race will be in memory of enthusiastic racer, young Clancy Aiden Shea, who passed away earlier this year. Before that, nearly-11-year-old ...