Rain Won't Stop the Anglers or the Cowboys

The wet weather may put a damper on some plans this weekend but it sure won't slow down the Bass Lake Fishing Derby or the Coarsegold Rodeo. Both events are happening this weekend, May 2nd and 3rd. Put on your rain coat and have some fun!!

Another Possible Case of Swine Flu in Valley

The paranoia is spreading. Someone walked into my office this morning wearing a germ mask. Store's across the nation are being cleaned out of hand sanitizer and face masks.

A young woman employed by a Porterville convelescent hospital has been identified as a possible swine flu victim. Tests have been sent to the state for confirmation.

Again, here are some simple tips to protect yourself and others from this deadly virus?

• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
• Avoid contact with other sick people.
• Avoid any unnecessary travel to Mexico.
• Avoid the emergency room if you are not ill. ER's are being swarmed by healthy people looking for Tamiflu. Stay away from the ER's if you are not sick!!

Wet Weather Expected for Weekend

After a considerable lull in the rainy season it looks like it's not over yet!! A storm is forecast for this weekend, beginning with showers on Friday afternoon, with heavy moisture expected through Sunday. Rainfall totals are expected to reach upwards of one inch in portions of the Central Valley, foothills and mountains. This will be a warm air storm so snow levels will be above 8,000 feet, with significant snow expected above 9,000 feet.

If you're planning on attending the Bass Lake Fishing Derby or the Coarsegold Rodeo this weekend, take your raingear!!

Waterfalls in Yosemite Flowing...For Now

The warmer weather has increased snow melt and spring runoff in Yosemite Valley, making the waterfalls a majestic site. However, they won't be majestic for long so if you are planning on a waterfall viewing trip to the valley, do it soon. The lack of rain and snow in the higher elevations means we're in for a long, hot summer and very little water in local streams and lakes.

Swine Flu Creeping Closer to Madera County

There has been a recent report of a Visalia area child possibly infected with Swine Flu. Test results have been sent to the state for confirmation. It would seem that this deadly illness is creeping ever closer to Madera County.

The symptoms of Swine Flu include:
Runny Nose
Sore Throat
Coughing
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Fever
Lethargy
Loss of consciousness, ending in death

If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms get yourself to a doctor immediately. Please limit your exposure to the public by staying home from work or school. This illness is spread person to person through coughing and sneezing.

No Swine Flu in Madera County....Yet

Although there are no reported cases of Swine Flu in Madera County at this time, local health care providers are preparing for patients. California has 11 confirmed cases of Swine Flu, 1 in Sacramento, 5 in San Diego County and 5 in Imperial County. There are a total of cases as of today in the United States.

Health officials are urging "that all non-essential travel to Mexico be avoided." Cuba has already banned all flights to Mexico.

There are some basic steps we can all take to minimize our risk of becoming ill.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you become ill, do everyone a favor and STAY HOME FROM WORK. If your child becomes ill, keep him or her home from school.

Oakhurst Town Hall Meeting

There will be a town hall meeting tomorrow evening, April 28th, at the Oakhurst Community Center, from 6pm to 8pm. Topics will include an update on Oakhurst area projects, general discussion on District 5 issues, updates on local cleanup efforts and a presentation by Vulcan Materials on their proposed rock quarry project. This town hall meeting is hosted by Tom Wheeler, Supervisor District 5 and the Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Talking Bear Gets a Face Lift

Work has finally begun on restoring the world famous Talking Bear. Local artist Linda Field has generously donated her time (in between her two jobs) to restore the mountain area's beloved historical landmark.

"I just want to give a little back to the community", stated Field.

The Talking Bear has been the most recognized landmark in Oakhurst since the 1960's. Over the years, the poor bear has been terrorized by taggers and vandals. Victorian Village owner Brad Ditton is planning on installing a webcam. "Maybe if we put the old guy on camera people will respect him a little more."

The webcam will have a live feed which will be accessible through the Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce website.