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County Line Countylinemadera.com

Jan-March 2015

Madera County

STORY ON PAGES 12 & 13

FREE

FREE

FREE

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The Fairbanks Real Estate Group “Service From The Heart”

Patty & Dennis Fairbanks

CA BRE # 01379972 CA BRE # 01379984

(559) 683-1711

(559) 658-1111

fairbanksgroup@sti.net

www.fairbanksgroup.net 40050 Hwy 49 #N8

Oakhurst CA, 93644

“WE SELL DREAMS”

The Sierra Ambulance Family Membership Program

“It’s the gift of love” “It’s the gift of life”

A family membership of $65.00 covers all emergency transit costs within Sierra’s service area to any hospital in Madera, Fresno & Mariposa Counties. Membership covers transport expense including co-pays, amounts over maximum benefits and all expense if uninsured.

Memberships, Call 559-642-0650

Web site www.sierraambulance.org

3

MADERA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISOR—2015

District Attorney

David Linn

District 2

David Rogers

District 3

Rick Farinelli

District 5

Tom Wheeler

District 4

Max Rodriguez

Sheriff/Coroner

Jay Varney

District 1

Brett Fraizer

Board of Supervisors

Madera County

200 W Fourth St

559-675-7700

District 1

Brett Frazier 662-6010

District 2

David Rogers 662-6020

District 3

Rick Farinelli 662-6030

District 4

Max Rodriguez 662-6040

District 5

Tom Wheeler 662-6050

County Clerk/Recorder

Rebecca Martinez

675-7721

Governor

Jerry Brown

916-445-2841

State Senator

Tom Berryhill

559-319-2025

State Assembly

Frank Bigelow

559-673-0501

US Senators

Barbara Boxer

559-497-5109

Dianne Feinstein

559-585-7430

US Representative

Jeff Denham

209-579-5458

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Dear County Line Staff,

Thanks you so much for featuring the Vietnam Mov-

ing Wall in your October/December issue. I had never had

the opportunity to visit the Wall in Washington, D.C. As a

Vietnam Veteran, visiting the Wall was on my life’s “bucket

list.”

I read about the Wall in your magazine and made it

a point to visit this wonderful memorial to our military when

it came to Madera. My entire family gathered, drove to the

County Court House Park, and spent time at each panel.

So many died on that particular battle field in that

faraway war. The simple, quiet beauty of the Wall healed

many wounds. My family was honored to have had the

chance to visit, to remember and to pray for those comrades

we lost and to the families left behind.

Thank you once again for giving us an opportunity

to be part of the Vietnam Moving Wall tradition.

Sincerely,

One of the many Comrades f0rever…...

TRACY KENNEDY DESMOND

Treasurer/Tax Collector

The Madera County Treasurer /Tax Collector's office, located at 200 West 4th Street, provides a means for the County to

collect all reasonable and necessary taxes approved by the County Board of Supervisors. Taxes are consistent with the State of

California Tax Law and Constitutional Article 13 (a). The most common types are secured, unsecured and supplemental property

taxes. In addition, the Treasurer//Tax Collector's office receives Transient Occupancy Taxes (hotel and motel), business improve-

ment district taxes, prepares and collects business license fees and conducts an annual sale of property deemed to be in tax de-

fault five (5) or more years.

Collected revenues provide County constituents with an opportunity to access essential programs and services on behalf of the

County, School Districts and Special Districts. Unpaid taxes are subject, under State law, to penalties, costs, fees, and interest if

not paid on time, and the Treasurer/Tax Collector cannot waive such fees. Therefore, early and on-time payments avoid unneces-

sary collection of penalties, interest, and fees. We have also provided a brief description of these taxes for your convenience and

include the scheduled due dates, reporting and remitting deadlines, related penalties and interest, and sample forms.

First elected to Treasurer Tax Collector in June of 1990, I took office in January 1991.

In January 2015, I am humbled to begin my 7th term.

I have the experience and knowledge needed to manage this critical fiscal department.

This office must have employees that are knowledgeable as well as responsive to the public.

Money is emotional and we need to take that into consideration when making decisions that may

affect our taxpayers. When faced with a challenge, it is my duty to determine the facts, develop

options and ensure the desired results serve both my office and the public we serve. We have to

take into consideration how our choices may affect YOU!

My vision continues to be to provide the best possible service at the lowest possible cost

to the taxpayer.

Prior to the County, I was with the Finance Department at the City of Madera. I hold a

degree in accounting as well as a certificate in Public Treasury Management from the University

of Southern California, School of Public Administration.

On a personal note, I live in Coarsegold with my husband, John on land that was home-

steaded by the Kennedy family in the 1892. My Dad, Patrick Kennedy and sister Kathleen Ken-

nedy Clark and our children all live in the same area . We still run cattle and ride horses !

From the Editor….

Well, I did it again and I am the “red faced” one pictured above!

In the October/December issue of the County Line, page 5, right

hand corner, appears a photo of a lady I thought was the Madera

Tax Collector/Treasurer.

Guess what? I was dead wrong!

The REAL TRACY KENNEDY DESMOND is pictured below.

She is a gracious lady who forgave my error with a smile.

I learned just how much is required from Tracy and her staff at

the Tax Collector/Treasurer Department.

When I asked her what she would like to share with Madera resi-

dents, she quickly answered, “Tell them my department is always

here to be of help. The office is available to be of service when-

ever necessary.”

5

The Madera Oversight Coalition (MOC) was conceived in 2007 by the people for the people. MOC is a non-profit, non-

political, local, community based organization. To accomplish our mission objectives, we need community interaction and involvement. Mem-

bers of MOC are committed to the following:

Ensure responsible growth through adherence to California Land Use Law & Madera County General Plan Policies

Promote the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Madera County

MOC was organized to educate and facilitate information in an effort to better serve the public on subjects beneficial to the

community. MOC welcomes the public at all meetings to express their issues and, in return, will make every effort to extend its

knowledge on where and how to obtain a resolution.

MOC has not hesitated to voice its opinion whenever it felt the County was falling short on any given situation. MOC has

not been afraid to take on large developers (at considerable costs) after the Board of Supervisors approved their respective projects.

MOC is not now nor has ever been anti-growth. MOC encourages responsible growth with the end result being that all citizens of

Madera County will be protected. Development is inevitable. Responsible development is imperative for the good of the County as

a whole.

Listed below is a recap of MOC’s “Report Card” from the past years. Take a few minutes to read the list to see what this

dedicated group has accomplished in the past few years. Better yet, attend a MOC meeting and learn what MOC is working on in

2015. Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at Oakhurst Public Library. We welcome your comments

and suggestions and encourage your participation.

Integrated Water Management Plan

Raymond Subdivision

Road 417 Development

Gateway Village

Madera Ranch Quarry

Condominiums @ Pines Resort

Industrial Park/Kris Koontz

North Shore Village @ Millerton Lake

South East Madera Area Plan

What is the MADERA OVERSIGHT COALITION?

MOC

Sierra Meadows Estates

Madera Quarry Inc.

Hildreth Quarry

Austin Quarry/Vulcan Materials

Tesoro Viejo Inc./Rio Mesa

Empty Creek/Oakhurst

Liberty Groves

Gunner Ranch West

Madera County CEQA

Wright Ranch/Oakhurst

More information can be obtained on these projects listed in the April/June 2013 issue of the County Line availa-ble online at:

countylinemadera.com

Check out the new

MOC Website @ MOC1.org

MOC

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bruce Gray * Chairman

William Whitehead * Treasurer

Carol Yandell * Secretary

Don Landy * Board

Tony Ward * Consultant

Bing Hojilo * Consultant

The County Line-Madera magazine is not a political publication with a lib-eral or conservative agenda. We are a quarterly publication that provides accurate, up-to-date, and important information relevant to the citizens of Madera County.

We welcome your suggestions, letters to the editor, and articles centered upon important community issues and historical stories that readers will find of inter-est.

PUBLISHER

William Whitehead

(559) 676-0587

countyline@sti.net

NOTE: We reserve the right to edit or reject any submitted materials including, but not limited to offensive, racist, or politically biased comment. All statistics or state-ments of fact used within a submitted article must be supported and substantiated by reliable sources and referenced. Copy written materials must have attached reprint authorizations from author or publisher.

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Friendly

2014 ASSESSED VALUE NOTICES—Now Available Online

Tom Kidwell, Assessor

Assessed Value notices for properties whose value has changed since last year are now available online in Madera County.

In the past, value notices were mailed to property owners whose property’s value changed from the previous year for rea-

sons other than the Consumer Price Index adjustment called for under Proposition 13. The Madera County Board of Supervisors

approved the Assessor’s request to provide value notices online via the County website, instead of by regular mail, to owners of

real and personal property whose value changed.

The most common reasons for a taxpayer to be sent a value change notice are if there has been a change in ownership or

new construction on the property, or there are business property improvements requiring annual revaluation, if the property is en-

rolled in the Williamson Act (the Ag Preserve), or there has been a increase in value following the real estate market’s recovery

for those properties that were in a decline in value (Prop 8) status.

Property owners can review their value notices at:

http://www.madera-county.com/index.php/assessed-value-change-search

The notice can be searched for by the Assessor’s Parcel Number, which can be found in the upper right-hand corner of a

property tax bill.

Property owners without access to the County website can obtain a printed value notice by calling (559) 675-7710, by visit-

ing the Assessor’s Office, or by sending a written request to: Madera County Assessor’s Office, 200 W. 4 th Street, Madera, CA

93637.

“This makes it easier for taxpayers with internet access to view their values at their convenience online, while saving

Madera County tens of thousands of dollars by not having to print and mail the notices.” Assessor Tom Kidwell said.

+

7

WOOD, GAS, PELLET STOVES,

INSERTS, FIREPLACES

49190 ROAD 426, OAKHURST CA. 93644

(559) 683-7205 Fax (559) 642-6740

www.mountaincomforts.com

CA License 449610

The County Line

It is difficult to believe that the first County Line “hit the stands” in June of 2011. Here we are in January, 2015, ready to begin again to keep the residents of Madera up to date and informed about their community.

We extend our sincere thanks to our readers for taking the County Line home to read and share with friends and family. We always welcome your comments.

Thanks to all those who have contrib-uted to the County Line with their local an-nouncements, information about the County in general, and their own special experiences shared through their personal stories.

We consider our advertisers “our partners.” Thank you for using the County Line to spread the word about your compa-ny.

Fairbanks Real Estate

Martignoni Glass

Sierra Ambulance

Mountains Comforts

Sierra Tel

J. Carol Realty– Laura Young

California Naturals

Timberline Gallery

Dr. Stephen Dahlin

Coarsegold Car Care

All Weather Roofing

Wild Pete Publishing

CR Stove Services

Taste of China

Narrow Gauge

Jewelry by Robin

Sweet Pea Creek

Wells Fargo– Mike Nili

Coarsegold Village

ECO Strike

Coarsegold Emporium

Golden Hills Dental

Coarsegold Pharmacy

Red Dog Firearms

Peet’s Coffee & Tea

8

Written by Dwight H. Barnes

The rich, colorful history of the property in Ahwah-

nee owned by the County of Madera and now under consid-

eration for educational and recreational development goes

back to the very first days in which settlers came to the Cen-

tral California hills along the Fresno River. It was in this

area that the first farms were located to raise produce for the

gold mines which attracted settlers in the early days of Cali-

fornia’s Gold Rush. Some published reports indicate it was

on these lands that a major battle in the Mariposa Indian War

was fought in 1851.

In 1886, Henry Washburn built the hotel in

Wawona which was to become the primary way station en-

route to Yosemite Valley. A short time later, William Sell,

Sr., in cooperation with Mr. Washburn’s Yosemite Stage and

Turnpike Company, purchased a farm on which to locate a

lunch stop on the stage route between Raymond and

Wawona.

It was Mrs. Sell, a native of Hornitos in Mariposa

County, who gave the name to the area. Turning to the na-

tive people there, she learned that their word for the type of

valley in which the ranch was situation was “Ahwahnee” and

thus the ranch house, when converted to the Sells’ Inn, be-

came the Ahwahnee Tavern. In the years to follow, this be-

came a haven for hot and dusty travelers taking the arduous

stage trip required to view the wonders of Yosemite Valley

and the Mariposa Grove of Big Trees.

In its day, the Ahwahnee Tavern was host to royalty

and other famous and wealthy people, among them President

Theodore Roosevelt, Belgium Crown Prince Albert, Susan

B. Anthony, the Maharaja of Baroda, Andrew Carnegie, John

D. Rockefeller, California Governor Pardee, Galen Clark and

Rube Goldberg.

Completion in 1907 of the railroad from Merced to

El Portal ultimately eliminated the stage route from Ray-

mond to Wawona and the need for the Ahwahnee Tavern.

The Sells sold the property to the Counties of Madera,

Merced and Stanislaus who developed a tuberculosis sanato-

rium in 1919.

When first opened, the sanatorium had but one ward

with17 beds. The old Ahwahnee Tavern was used for hospital

administration, kitchen and employee dining room until it burned

in 1937. As the years passed, new buildings housed a modern hos-

pital plus two wards, a nurses home, a recreational hall, homes for

two doctors and cottages for other employees, a children’s build-

ing, a school, a laundry and barns.

At first, the sanatorium had only a single doctor and two

nurses. Before it closed, the staff included three physicians, 13

nurses and about 25 other employees, cooks, waiters, engineers,

carpenters, farmers, gardeners and helpers. At its peak, the sanato-

rium served nearly 100 patients.

In the fall of 1928, classroom instruction for children was

started on the porch of the children’s building. The following year

the school became a part of the Madera County School System and

a separate schoolhouse was built in 1930.

The sanatorium closed in 1969 as new drugs and treat-

ments for tuberculosis brought the disease under control. Earlier,

Stanislaus County had build its own facility and when the sanatori-

um was closed, the County of Madera bought out Merced Coun-

ty’s interests. The following year, the County leased the facility to

a family owned operation which opened the Ahwahnee Hills

School in November, 1970. The residence facility provided educa-

tions for boys 8 to 20 years old who were described by school offi-

cials as “slow learners.”

Ahwahnee Hills School was incorporated as a non-profit

entity in 1975. Before it closed in mid-1985, the school housed

about 90 boys, mostly referrals from probation and juvenile depart-

ments in counties throughout California and the States of Nevada

and Utah. In addition, the corporation maintained several group

homes in Eastern Madera County. The operation halted when the

California Department of Social Services did not renew its license.

A broad-based committee representing many areas of

Madera County was appointed to recommend future use of the

property. The late Hernan Neufeld of Ahwahnee was its chairman.

Based on their recommendations, the Board of Supervisors in

March, 1989, adopted formal guidelines for future use of the land,

stressing the importance of education and recreation.

Ahwahnee Community and Friends of Ahwahnee Hills Park are very proud of the evaluation of our Madera County Regional Park

which consists of 241 acres of natural Oak woodland, pond, trails and an abundance of wild life. This article will attempt to out-

line the history of the site, its uses, the “Beginning of a Dream,” progress and future plans. Let us begin with a history spanning

from 1851 to 1989 as outlined by Dwight H. Barnes for the Sierra Historic Sites Associations.

THE LAND WHICH GAVE AHWAHNEE ITS NAME

9

Countylinemadera.com

Volume 3 Issue 7

FREE

As stated, on March 18, 1989, the Madera County Board of Supervisors passed Resolution No. 89-57. The resolution is

titled, “Resolution Adopting Guidelines for Use and Development of County Property In Ahwahnee.” This Resolution (89-57) was

brought forth by Citizens Committee Chairman Herman Neufeld and his committee was comprised of 32 residents, representing

eight areas of Madera County. They agreed and presented a Multi-use Master Plan that continues to be the goals and objectives of

the current Friends of Ahwahnee Park Committee and the Ahwahnee Community Council.

While drafting and finalizing the Ahwahnee/Nipinnawasee Area Plan in 1999, the Ahwahnee Community Council includ-

ed many, if not all, of the items addressed in Resolution 89-57.

On September 15, 1999, the Madera County Board of Supervisors and Project Partners stared what was called “The Birth

of the Madera County Ahwahnee Property” or, simply put “The Beginning of a Dream.”

The first order of business was to remove all of the hazardous items and demolition of the buildings that was once the Tu-

berculosis Sanatorium. Under the guidance of Supervisor Gary Gilbert, the demolition clean up was successfully executed to aid in

the training of local residents in the skills of carpentry and construction operations. Under Supervisor Gilbert’s leadership, the

Friends of Ahwahnee Hills Park was formed and continues to pursue the desires of the area while being sensitive to the wildlife and

natural surroundings.

Friends of Ahwahnee Hills Chairperson Fern Faccino and the Board Members have undertaken a large task and much has

been accomplished. Funding has been the limiting factor in the progress towards the goals of the Committee, but current progress is

the result of volunteer labor, government grants and community support.

The following is a brief description of some accomplishments — but, not all:

Removed old, non-salvageable sanatorium buildings and their residual containments including the san-

atorium septic system. Also removed years of trash dumped on the property

Updated and built an athletic/recreation field with sprinkler systems and located close to Wasuma

School. The local Rotary Club donated funds for this field and, hopefully, youth organizations will

take advantage of this field

Restored “Old Barn” and rebuilt the internal structure with a new foundation for

safety while retaining its historic appearance

Replaced old barbed wire field fence between Wasuma School and the Park with

chain link fence. There is a gate between the park and school to accommodate

school field trips

Built three wood bridges over seasonal stream beds to assure ease of hiking by

citizens, including handicap accessibility. These bridges have been designed to

also accommodate horses

Built a trailer pad with water, sewer and electric for the Park Caretakers’ living quarters

Cleaned up and pulled tons and tons of barbed wire cross fence ‘T ‘ posts and dumped discarded tires

Laid out and built two miles of easy walking hiking trails that are handicap accessible. In addition, a more challenging trail

has been cut in the Western perimeter of the Park by volunteers

Major restoration of an old sanatorium administration building to accommodate the Parks Interpretive Center. Purchased and

installed display cases and other necessities

Tree Fresno and local volunteers planted hundred s of trees throughout the park. The

long draught and lace of equipment to water them has, unfortunately, taken its toll

Local Boy Scouts have made and placed trail signs and information signs within the

park.

.

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These are some of the projects completed , but we are continuing with big plans in hopes of having more volunteer support. Some of

the identified projects being pursued are as follows:

Work with Cal Fire this winter to accommodate a base camp for the personnel and equipment needed for a major fire in the Oak-

hurst/Ahwahnee and Easter Mariposa County. This became acutely apparent during the 2014 fire season. We plan to work with

Cal Fire for a solution. In addition to working with Cal Fire on the Personnel area, we are looking for help to build corrals for

the dispossessed live stock next to the new barn.

Seeking funds (approximately $10,000) to lay a concrete slab/floor in the Old Barn. This will make it more usable for communi-

ty events, such as dances, youth group events, weddings, etc

Requesting that the County include the adjoining 160 acres to the 241 acre Park for equestrian trails. This will accommodate

the horse community with approximately six miles of trails. It will also provide an incentive to include a horse arena on the Park

site

Continue working with the veterans groups to accommodate a yearly (October) event that will recognize all veterans, in particu-

lar disabled vets. Long range plans call for a memorial wall recognizing deceased area veterans including those from Mariposa.

The wall should include Lt. E. Skeane who died on the park site following a major battle in the Mariposa Indian War fought in

1851. Ahwahnee Hills Park Committee has extended an invitation to local Indian tribes to build a monument in memory of their

deceased warriors.

The Ahwahnee Hills Park Committee continues to seek events that can be held in the Park and also provide a revenue source

for maintenance and new projects that can be useful for the area.

Friends of the Ahwahnee Hills Park would like to thank Supervisor Tom Wheeler and the Madera County staff for their sup-

port so that the communities can enjoy a Regional Park..

The Park facilities are open during the summer from 7 am to 7 pm

Winter hours are 7 am to 5 pm

The Park is closed Mon and Tues to allow personal time for the caretakers

NO overnight camping & NO fires of any kind, including barbeques, are allowed during the fire season.

ahwahneepark.org

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Stephen A. Dahlin D.C. 35463 Highway 41,

Coarsegold 559-683-6292

Providing services of Chiropractic,

Massage, Nutrition, Diet and Exer-

cise

Call or stop by to see how Chiropractic can

help you

Oakhurst Plumbing- Scott Hereth

Servicemaster Restore- Scott Hall

New Image - Kevin Gimbl

Heritage Contruction - Richard Swisegood

“Out of the ashes”

Nancy’s Story….On September 14, 2014, foothills residents

experienced a devastating fire. The Courtney Fire located

primarily at Courtney Lane and 7 Hills Road in Oakhurst was

one of several fires in the area.. Thirty residences were de-

stroyed, 4 were badly damaged, outbuildings and vehicles

were destroyed beyond recognition.

Such was the physical damage to the residents in this pictur-

esque foothills area in the shadow of Yosemite National Park.

For those who lived in the area as well as their friends and

neighbors, the damage went much deeper. Hearts were bro-

ken, life times of memories were lost and thoughts of begin-

ning again were difficult to bear.

Nancy Vusich is one of the residents of the fire area. Nancy

was able to save herself and her cat when the Sheriff arrived

to evacuate potential victims of the raging fire. She thanked

God for her life and her pet. Before returning to what she

thought used to be her dream home, she prayed for guidance

for herself and all the victims of this inferno.

One of the “lucky” ones, Nancy found her house damaged but

not destroyed. With the help of friends, a caring insurance

agent, fantastic workers and lots of faith, Nancy’s home has

been restored. At an open house in November, she shared

how grateful she was for all those who came to her aid.

After a harrowing experience, Nancy Vusich came “out of the

ashes” and celebrated Christmas at home. She was able re-

turn home in less than three months following the horrendous

fire. She has been given a new beginning.

Nancy credits her faith in God, the generous people of our

community, and in particular the men who worked so hard to

bring her home. She sends special thanks to:

12

IF the Austin Quarry becomes a reality, it will mean..

1700+ New Trucks Entering and Exiting Highways 41 and 145 ~ EVERY DAY

1.8 Million Gallons of Water ~ EVERY DAY

Air Quality, Public Safety and Health Risks ~ EVERY DAY

A 258-Acre Hole in the Ground X 400-Foot Deep ~ FOREVER

* 50 Chukchansi Casino and Hotel, Stacked 3 High will Fit

This is a 100-Year Project

13

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT

COMMENT FORM

From the Editor:

Below is a letter presented to the Board of Supervisors at a scop-

ing session regarding the Austin Quarry. The writer is in ele-

mentary school. It has been retyped verbatim.

My name is Alexander. How is (the quarry) going to affect

me? I want my world to have clean air. Vote no on Austin

Quarry.

LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!!

How To Learn More about the Austin Quarry

Attend a MOC Meeting – 2nd Monday monthly at

6 p.m., Oakhurst Library

Go to MOC1.org– Click on Stop Austin’s Quarry for

information

Read the County Line - available throughout the foot-

hills & Madera City area

Watch for future presentations about the proposed

quarry. MOC will continue to hold these meetings to

inform the community. (Information will be available

on the MOC1.org website as well as local newspa-

pers)

How To Comment On the Project

Contact your County Supervisor (see page 3 for contact numbers)

Contact the County Planning Department: Matthew.Treber@madera-county.com

Write to the County Planning Department @ Madera County Board of Supervisors, 200 West 4th St, Madera, CA 93637

Be sure to include your name, address, telephone number (optional) or email (optional)

I rest my case.

IN OAKHURST:

Drivers must negotiate the gauntlet of slow moving

trucks on a 2-lane Hwy 41. 1700 new trucks dumping onto Hwy 41 and 145, twice as

much at rush hour. Extra time must be allowed to reach your doctors in Fresno. Increased time for appointments and ambulance trips to Fres-

no.

IN THE MADERA RANCHOS:

Constant dust, air pollution, and health issues accompanied

with bad air days. A new 400-foot deep, 258-acre hole blasted into our ground-

water aquifer, drawing down wells for miles around. 18-wheelers rumbling through residential areas day and night. Property values falling by 20%

How Will the Quarry Affect Me?

14

Registration of Phone Numbers

The Elder Orphans Senior Calling Service stores phone num-

bers for those who wish to receive pre-recorded house checks.

In order to receive your daily message, you MUST register

with Elder Orphans. You will be required to provide home

number, home address, scheduled calling times, and names of

personal contacts along with their telephone numbers. All infor-

mation you provide will be kept strictly confidential.

How It Works

Elder Orphans serves as a telephonic safety check for people

who live alone. You receive a pre-recorded message on your

home phone instructing you to press #1 to indicate you are

fine. If you do not answer or respond, the Madera Sheriff’s

Communication Center will dispatch someone to check on your

welfare.

Cost

Elder Orphans is a free service provided by the Madera County

Sheriff’s Office..

Privacy Notice and Disclaimer

The County of Madera does not share or distribute personal

information gathered by this form. Your information is submit-

ted over a secure, encrypted connection for your protection.

Stay safe!

A Message Worth Repeating…...

15

Interaction

Touch

Stable Relationships

Safe, Healthy Environment

Self-Esteem

Quality Care

Play

Communication

Muxic

Reading

First 5 California was created by voters under Prop 10 to

recognize health and education as a top priority for children in the

very early years of development.

Since 1998, First 5 has invested millions of dollars to design

comprehensive programs that address the needs of children ages 0-5

and their families. Programs are centered around the child, parents,

and teacher to improve early childhood outcomes in the areas listed as

shown. First 5 directors work with statewide partners in each county

to ensure that our programs are reaching the children and families that

need it the most to ensure the children enter school healthy and ready

to learn!

These services are not restricted by income, residency, race

or other common deciding factors. All services are FREE! The

services are available for anyone who has children from the pre-natal

stage to the age of five.

They are provided strictly to allow each child to have a

strong start to life in a nurturing environment that will allow them to

succeed later in life.

JANUARY 2015

MOUNTAIN AREA

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

49169 Road 426, Oakhurst

Advanced sign up for all classes

Call Karen @ 559-664-4198er@first5madera.net

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Call Karen at First 5 to get

information for January

2015 activities!

16

Motorcycle Riders The YLCC ride group meets the third Saturday of the month at Yosemite Lakes Com-

munity Church for a ride. We encourage fellowship between church members and non-members,

Christians and non-Christians, through motorcycling. Come as you are and ride with us. We

welcome all riders on any bike, trike or car. Email or call me to join our email list.

Sammy Ashworth

559-707-0755

sdashworth@gmail.com

Riders at Vietnam Wall

County Line MADERA COUNTY MAGAZINE

CALL 559-676-0587

Email countyline@sti.net

THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR YOUR

ADVERTISING NEEDS

WITH RATES YOU CAN AFFORD

FREE & EXPANDED TAX SERVICES

AVAILABLE AGAIN

IN 2015 IN MOUNTAIN AREA

Free income tax return preparation and electronic filing for both State and Federal returns will be available this year for Madera

County residents of all ages. The services are offered by the AARP Tax-Aide program, and are free of all costs and charges.

Tax returns are prepared by specially trained, certified and supervised volunteers. This year there are 14 volunteers working in

Oakhurst and in Madera. In Oakhurst, services will be provided every Tuesday beginning February 3 and continuing through April

7. Services will be available at the Oakhurst Library. In addition, services will be held on three Saturdays at the Library.

Call Brian at 559-285-1494 for your appointment.

17

WOOD-GAS-PELLET STOVES

Service & Repair

Long time Coarsegold resident,

Stan knows his business. If IT

breaks, Stan can fix IT! If IT just

needs a good cleaning or servicing,

Stan can take care of your stove &

swamp coolers.

Stan is bonded and licensed

(b0102819) and fully insured.

Here’s a good reminder from Stan: Take care of repair and

service BEFORE the cold months begin. You’ll “beat the

rush” and be very glad you did.

CR STOVE SERVICE

Stan Busby

559-665-1487

Fac 559-642-2504

E-Mail stan@sti.net

Matthews

Fine Furniture “We’ve been making quality affordable for 25 years”

Sofas, Recliners, Sectionals, Dining Sets, Entertainment Centers,

Bedroom Sets, Mattresses, Coffee Tables, End Tables, Lamps

And All Priced To Beat The Competition!

David & Reita Bennett

Local Owners Since 1986

42255 Highway 41, Oakhurst, California

(1/4 Mile Before The Bass Lake Turnoff) Matthewsfurniture.net 559-683-3998

VOLUNTEERS! HEADS UP!

Keep Our Mountains Beautiful

Watch for Roadside

Litter Clean Up Day

Coming in April, 2015

Call 877-2361 or 760-1058

For information

PICK UP

&

PITCH IN!

WE ALL WIN

18

P.O. Box 202

Oakhurst, California—Chapter One

www.caringveteransofAmerica.com

Caring Veterans of America, Oakhurst, Chapter One is a Christian based. IRS recognized 501c(3)

charitable organization. Our officers are volunteers and none receive a salary. Caring Veterans of Ameri-

ca respect and honor the sacrifice of all Veterans.

“If you can’t afford to take care of your veterans, then don’t go

to war.” Senator Bernie Sanders, Committee on Veterans Af-

fairs.

Understanding your Veterans’ Benefits can be very difficult.

You needn’t have served “boots on the ground” in a combat

zone to qualify for benefits.

Caring Vets has a working relationship with local, State and

Federal organizations: Department of Veterans Affairs, Veter-

ans Benefit Administration, California Veterans Affairs, County

Veterans Service Officer and the National Cemetery Admin-

istration.

You do NOT need to be a member of Caring Veterans of Amer-

ica to take advantage of our free services.

We are currently assisting veterans of World War II and those

who have serviced our country in more recent military actions.

Veterans benefits are not an entitlement.

Commander Terry Cole—559-760-5056

Executive Officer Brandon Murray—559-683-5435

Sgt at Arms John Hendricks—559-642-4188

Treasurer William Polhemus—559=658-0498

Secretary—Eddie Ellis—559-683-8434

Photos of STAND DOWN-2014

Held at Yosemite Lakes Community Church

Something for everybody. Commander Cole (on the right)

gets the ball rolling. Even a good haircut!

Watch for

Upcoming Events 2015

19

“

During volatile and confusing markets, we understand that even patient

investors may come to question the wisdom of the investment plan they’ve

been following. We’d like to help—and we can start by offering a cup of

coffee and a second opinion.

By appointment, you’re welcome to come in and talk with us abut your

investment portfolio. If we think your investments continue to be well-

suited to your long term goals, we’ll gladly tell you so, and send you on

your way. If, on the other hand, we think some of your investments no

longer fit with your goals, we’ll explain why, in plain English.

Either way, the coffee is on us.

Join us for a cup of coffee…

and a second opinion.

Michael Nili

Associate Vice President-Investments

7702 North Fresno St

Fresno, CA 93720 559-437-2239

Mike.Nili@wfadvisors.com

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC,

Member SIPC, is a registered

broker-dealer and a separate

non-bank affiliate of Wells

Fargo & Company, 2012

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC.

All rights reserved.1211-

0383-(79507v2 A1424.

Investment & insurance products * Not FDIC Insured

NO Bank * Guarantee MAY Lose Value

Coarsegold Car Care Maintenance, Service and Repair

Michael Sesto

Services Provided:

Oil Change

Tune Up

Engine Overhaul/Replace

Everything in between

35335 Hwy 41

(next to Coarsegold Market)

Coarsegold, CA. 93614 559-683-4477

20

Our Mission

We endeavor to serve the least, the last and the lost of Madera with the life chang-ing love of Christ, knowing that this is the catalyst for sustainable growth and abundant living.

Madera Rescue Mission is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

We are not mandated by government where teaching is concerned, yet the local authorities often mandate Parole and Probation clients to our care.

We rely on voluntary support from individuals, businesses, foundations, organiza-tions and churches.

We do not charge any fees for the guest services we provide.

We are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. – (The Mission does lock its gates at 10:00 p.m. but remains open to those that are in need as security permits.)

We serve breakfast lunch and dinner FREE every day, not just on special occa-sions.

Anyone committed to change is welcome to apply to our 12-month Discipleship Recovery Program. – (Please note that there is a 6 month after care component that follows up with our clients upon completion of the in-patient portion.)

Pastor Mike Unger was born to Canadian parents while living abroad in France. He grew up in British Columbia until moving to Hanford, CA where he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

Mike worked in government roles for many years finding himself more and more unfulfilled. He pur-sued a career in aviation. This time he listened to the Lord and quickly embraced his calling as a minister earning his B.A in Theology.

Mike began his ministry by throw-ing himself into jail ministry and later he served as a Youth Pastor. It was there that Mike began his min-istry at the Mission. Mike became a Program Director before assuming the role of Executive Director in August 2013.

You can reach Mike at MUnger@maderarm.org

Volunteers are encouraged to call 559-675-8321 and ask for Lynda.

21

Needing some new patio furniture, I planned to take

advantage of a 15% discount offered if one opened a credit ac-

count. Usually, I do not have individual store credit cards be-

cause MasterCard, VISA and Discover take care of my needs .

Since I always pay the total amount billed in full each month,

there never is a balance owing and no interest to be paid.

Against my better judgment, I completed the credit ap-

plication, looking forward to my new patio furniture. Low and

behold, after some delay, I was informed that I better contact the

Credit Reporting Company because I am DECEASED! Need-

less to say, this revelation did hit this still active and very much

alive senior citizen below the belt! I am definitely not DEAD.

But, what does the computer care?

All three credit reports were requested. And yes, they

say, “I actually am DEAD! “ I promptly wrote the following

letter:

To Whom It May Concern:

Enclosed please find copies of notices that show that I

have died. To bring my heavenly records up to date, please noti-

fy me of the date and place of my death. From what did I actual-

ly die? Somehow, I must have misplaced my Death Certificate.

All fun aside, please research this situation and the

reports with credit scores as soon as possible. The Heavenly

Master Credit Angel wants to know more about it!

Their replies arrived promptly. Apparently the Social

Security Administration shows that my Social Security number

matched that of a person who is deceased. I was advised to per-

sonally appear at the local Social Security Office and obtain

Form SS-2458. This I did.

After several hours sitting in the trusty and efficient

SSA office, I was issued this important Form SS-2458. Form

SS-2458 states: “Person whose name appears above identified

herself. We have NO record indicating that she is DE-

CEASED!” Copies of the certificate were mailed to the ap-

propriate parties and, at last, I was alive again and enjoying

my patio furniture!

I should have known not to be relieved so fast! Two

years later, I decided to open a new CD at a local bank. After

a lengthy waiting time in the bank office, I was approached by

the manager who told me that their credit clearing firm indi-

cates that I was DEAD! I mailed a copy of the infamous Form

SS-2458 to their office and, in return, I was advised to get a

new one as they could not verify a two year old report. I

MIGHT HAVE DIED IN THE MEANTIME. Once again, I

returned to the Social Security office to get an updated form. I

am alive once again! Congratulations.

Income tax time rolls around and I punctually mail

my returns requesting my refund. The check from the Fran-

chise Tax Board arrived first. I found that to be unusual. Af-

ter waiting patiently for the Federal refund, I received a notifi-

cation that, according to their records, the Social Security

number used matches that of a person who was deceased prior

to the tax year. No monies would be refunded. (I still ques-

tion if the IRS ever wondered why a dead person would send

quarterly payments). Like a good tax payer, I sent Form SS-

2458 to them and some time later my refund arrived.

I was fortunate that my monthly Social Security

checks arrived without any problems. I hate to think what

could have happened if they also had known of my premature

death! I have made several copies of Form SS-2458. Just in

case.

FIGHTING BUREAUCRACY!

Submitted by “The Very Much Alive”

Elfriede Kaiser

Everybody has a story.

Come share it with us. THE ALWAYS POPULAR MEMOIRS WRITING CLASS

After more than 15 years, the popular class will begin again 2015

JANUARY 23, 2015—FROM 9:30 AM TILL 12:30 PM

At

Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church

39696 Highway 41

Oakhurst, CA 93644

22

The Most Unique & Special Businesses in the Coarsegold Village

Located at 35300 Hwy 41 in Coarsegold, California, 93614

For Info 559-683-3900 Coarsegoldhistoricvillage.com coarsegoldca.com

Coarsegold Pharmacy 559-692-2479 Coarsegold Miner’s Grill 559-683-5548

Zanders Coffee 559-642-2180 Coarsegold Flowers 559-641-2384

A Village Salon 559-658-7867 Delight-ful Treasures 559-642-6668

Common Thread Market 559-760-3418 Community Dance & Theater 559-642-6555

Cindy Wood Massage 559-760-2509 Jewelry by Robyn 559-978-4910

Village Thrift Shop 559-658-8412 Cranberries and Lace 559-658-5000

Jolly Mutt 559-642-6400 City Chics’ 559-683-4004

Kuhl by Design 530-218-7403 Mountain Delights 559-917-4448

New Directions For Your Home 805-305-1880 Rocks Gems, Beads & Junk 559-642-6838

Yosemite’s Enchanted Treasures 559-977-2426 Village Vac and More 559-907-8833

Sweet Pea Creek 559-760-5730 Try Again Tack 559-760-2198

Tarantula Festival

October 25

From the County Line!!!!!

And, the Madera Oversight Coalition

23

The Little Church on the Hill needed to repair a wall.

Citizens contributed. The wall is now sound.

Shelia needed a kidney.

Erik said ,“Take mine.”

Cancer patients, their families and cancer survivors need

help.

The Relay for Life gave its all! Children at Casa de Sus Ninos ask for little.

YLCC’s Rebellion give much.

Fires in the Foothills

Help!

Fire Fighters did what Fire Fighters do!

They worked long and hard to save their neighbors.

The Vietnam Moving Wall came to Madera to remind us all that more than 58,000 men

and women made the Supreme Sacrifice so long ago for our freedom.

2014 SCRAPBOOK

William Barton Rhodes is named

on The Wall. His mother, Frances

Hagen, is a long time resident of

Oakhurst.

Thank you, Bill

24

Our Dental Savings Plan Can Help!

NO INSURANCE?...

...NO PROBLEM!!

FREE EXAMS

FREE CLEANINGS

FREE X-RAYS

FREE WHITENING

Existing and New Patients $249.00 Annual Membership Fee

includes $625.00 in services and 15% savings

on most dental procedures

Travis L. Kendall, DDS Jacob L. Geyer, DDS Comprehensive General Dentistry

Offering I.V. Sedation and Orthodontics

Caring for You and Your Smile!

559-683-8550 Yosemite Lakes Park Office

Downtown Coarsegold Office

559-658-7474