2021-05-20 E-Edition

Drought conditions already have big impact on region

Governor declares drought emergency for area


Even before the sun had risen over the hillside that overlooks the BJ Ranch on Monday morning, cars were pulling in the gravel lot, horses were letting out short snorts as they were being geared up, neighbors were greeting each other good morning and a small dog was running around shadowing the rancher group — tongue out already at what […]

Teacher reflects on melanoma fights during Skin Cancer Awareness Month

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Stephanie Bowen is a survivor. The 51-year-old Greeley Hill Elementary teacher was first diagnosed with stage one melanoma in the year 2000. After beating it once, her cancer resurfaced and spread with a vengeance in 2010. But Bowen fought back. And she has been cancer-free since May 2011. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Bowen recently shared her personal story […]

County stays in Orange tier

Lack of vaccinated residents one of main reasons


A masking update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now permits those fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to no longer wear a mask or socially distance in any setting — but California has not yet aligned with the guidance. The May 13 update comes with few exceptions, including masks to be worn by all where required by federal, […]

School officials begin plotting path to normalcy



The Mariposa Unified School District Board met last Thursday and discussed Covid-19, alternative education accreditation, a grant and more. Covid-19 update Mariposa County Health Officer Dr. Eric Sergienko kicked off the meeting by updating the board on local information regarding Covid-19. Pfizer vaccine clinics for 12 to 15 year olds opened last week, and on Thursday, Sergienko said “people are […]

Despite lack of cooperation, Cutter trial is set


Even though a Mariposa County man appears to be uncooperative with his own attorney, the case involving sexual charges against a minor appears to be going forward. Michael Anthony Cutter, 31, faces a long list of charges following his arrest on March 19 in Catheys Valley. Cutter faces the following charges: sexual battery; enticing a minor for illegal sex, aiding […]

Gordie, Braden Varney ceremony set May 29

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A ceremony to honor two Mariposa County men who dedicated their lives to saving others is set for later this month. The Sweetwater Christian Camp is inviting everyone to attend the dedication ceremony for a memorial which has been erected to honor Gordie and Braden Varney. Braden Varney died in the Ferguson Fire in July 2018 when his bulldozer overturned […]

Mercy Ambulance adds crucial equipment to monitor patients

Mercy Ambulance has announced the purchase of the new ZOLL X Series Advanced Cardiac Monitor and Defibrillator for all of its ambulances. That includes the ambulances which serve Mariposa County. Mercy is among the first providers in California to operate with ZOLL’s upgraded monitor. The most basic function of a cardiac monitor/defibrillator is to measure the electrical activity produced by […]

Putting kids first

Matt Foraker, right, vice-president of Yosemite Bank, is seen handing a donation of $500 to Rick Uebner, president of Kids First. The bank has been a constant supporter of this nonprofit for years. In 2020, undeterred by the COVID pandemic, Kids First awarded over $32,000 in grants that allow Mariposa County classroom teachers to purchase necessary educational tools not covered […]

Christy Mathis

            Christy Mathis, a hard-nosed and hard-driving nurse-turned-rancher’s wife whose tough exterior belied the kind heart and graciousness that lay beneath, died suddenly at her home. She was 78. A mother of three and doting grandmother of five, Christy had an indefatigable work ethic. For many years, while managing the Mathis household and the family […]