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FREE FREE

County Line

Madera CountyMadera County

April 2013April 2013——June 2013June 2013

Magazine

MADERA QUARRY EYESORES RAYMOND GENERAL STORE WATER

Local News Economic Issues Local History Editorials Comic Relief

RAYMOND

Volume 3 Issue 1

Countylinemadera.com

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The County Line-Madera magazine is not a political publica-tion with a liberal or conservative agenda. We are a quarterly publica-tion which provides accurate, up-to-date, and important information relevant to citizens of Madera County and the Sierra Mountain Com-munity.

We welcome your suggestions, letters to the editor, and arti-cles centered upon important community issues & historical stories that readers will find of interest.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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 statements of fact used within a submitted article must be supported and substantiated by reliable sources and referenced. Copywriten materials must have attached reprint authori-zations from author or publisher.

Copywright 2012—All rights reserved

WOOD, GAS, PELLET

STOVES, INSERTS, FIREPLACES

49190 ROAD 426, OAKHURST CA. 93644

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

Www.moutaincomforts.com

CA License 449610

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ELECTED OFFICIALS

GOVERNOR

Jerry Brown

916-445-2841

gov.ca.gov

STATE SENATOR

Tom Berryhill

209-575-6470

STATE ASSEMBLY

209-576-6424

US SENATORS

Barbara Boxer

559-497-5109

Dianne Feinstein

559-485-7430

US REPRESENTATIVE

Jeff Denham

209-579-545

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

Tom Wheeler

559-662-6050

OUR ADVERTISERS

Dr. Stephen Dahlin, D.C.

Woody’s New Orleans West

Kraft & Lee Insurance

Oakhurst Computers

Eagle Quick Lube

The Produce Place

Taste of China

Matthews Fine Furniture

Coarsegold Emporium

Miner’s Grill

Sportsmen’s Den

Fairbanks Real Estate Group

Sierra Ambulance Service

Mountain Comforts

Scuderia Black Forest

The Kathouse

L.T. Starner & Sun Construction

Yosemite Mtn. Sugarpine

Martignono Glass

Pete Miller Ranch

Westbrook Wine Farms

Happy Feet

Mike’s

Pasley Construction

MOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bruce Gray * Chairman

William Whitehead * Treasurer

Carol Yandell * Secretary

Jim Lamb * Member

Tony Ward * Consultant

Bing Hojilo * Consultant

MOC (The Madera Oversight Coali-tion) is a non-profit, non-political, local, community based organization. Our primary objective is to encourage re-sponsible growth through adherence to California Land Use Law, Madera County General Plan and promote the Health, Safety, and Welfare of the pub-lic within Madera County. To accom-plish our mission objectives, we need community interaction and involve-ment. We welcome your comments and suggestions and encourage your partici-

pation.

2nd Monday Monthly

6pm / Oakhurst Library

MADERA OVERSIGHT

COALITION

ADVERTISERS & SPONSORS YOUR ELECTED

OFFICIALS

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MOC REPORT CARD

Chairman Bruce Gray

Integrated Water Management Plan (IRWMP) - MOC was at the table in 2006 when the County began the process

of developing the IRWMP for managing and protecting its water resources. MOC followed the process making com-

ments when possible up to its acceptance by the Board of Supervisors in 2009.

2006

2007 Raymond Subdivision—MOC successfully supported residents of Raymond in their fight against a 133 acre subdivi-

sion.

2008

Road 416 Development—MOC supported residents, and thru legal steps convinced the County and local develop-

ers to conform to the Coarsegold Area Plan. 2008

Gateway Village-Castle & Cook—MOC settled its legal challenge with Castle and Cook thru a negotiated settle-

ment. A portion of the settlement was to provide the Rose Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization, grant

money to be used specifically for planning in the South Eastern Madera County Growth Area.

Madera Ranch Quarry-Jason Baker—MOC supported the Bates Station Neighbors legal challenge of an inadequate

EIR on Water, Traffic, and Cumulative effects of Traffic and Noise. The case was won in the 5th District Appeals

Court where Bates Station Neighbors prevailed, setting CASE LAW now being widely used.

2009 Condominiums-Pines Resort—MOC became involved in this issue when the Board of Supervisors approved the

development with only a Mitigated Negative Declaration. MOC and the Bass Lake residents filed litigation stating

that a full EIR was necessary to evaluate Water, Sewer and Traffic issues.

Industrial Park-Kris Koontz—MOC supported the residents’ objections to an Industrial Park located in a residential

zoned are of Coarsegold which violates the Area Plan. After organized citizens presented documents to the Plan-

ning Department, the Planning Commission recommend denial of the project. The Board of Supervisors also denied

the applicant’s project on June 22, 2009.

Continued on the next page.

North Shore Village at Millerton Lake-Rio Mesa—MOC felt that an inadequate analysis of the Water Supply, Cultur-

al Resource Impacts, Traffic Study and several other concerns were evident. MOC teamed with Revive the San

Joaquin and the Dumna Tribe to file litigation. No litigation was necessary as all parties came together at a single 14

-hour mediation meeting. All concerns were addressed through further study on corrective actions, which were

ordered by the courts to be monitored by the County and reported to MOC on an annual basis.

South East Madera Area Plan—MOC is following along closely as the County holds workshops on a new area plan

for an estimated 31,467 acres. Our major concerns are Water, Traffic, and Job Creation.

Sierra Meadows Estates-Bard Investments—MOC supported the citizens’ objection to the Water, Traffic and Fire

Issues. MOC continues to monitor this project in Ahwahnee. “Update—June 10, 2010” - the Developer has agreed

on all citizens’ concerns. The remaining item is to obtain a Permit from the CA State Water Resources Control

Board to be able to create a dam which will divert and hold 210 acre feet of water per year from Miami Creek.

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MOC REPORT CARD

Hildreth Quarry-Granite Construction—MOC is monitoring this project as it unfolds with respect to Traffic, Air

Quality and Water. Three million tons of materials per year and approximately 2400 trucks per day.

Madera Quarry Inc.-Jason Baker—MOC continues to support BSN in this re-submitted EIR after the Appeals

Courts ruled that Water, Traffic, Cumulative Effects were not adequate and thus must be resubmitted.

Austin Quarry-Vulcan Materials—MOC is monitoring this project as it unfolds with respect to Traffic, Air Quali-

ty and Water. 2.5 million tons of materials per year and approximately 1942 trucks per day.

2011 Tesoro Viejo Inc-Rio Mesa—After MOC prevailed in Superior Court, the Developer appealed to the 5th District

Court of Appeals. This Court upheld that the EIR is not adequate, using future Baseline Traffic Conditions, Fail-

ure to Address Water Issues, and inadequate Mitigation for Culture Resource impacts.

Madera Quarry Inc.-Jason Baker—To avoid a second round of litigations, the Bates Station Neighbors reached a

settlement in which Madera Quarry Inc. agreed to a large number of BSN’s concerns and has assumed responsi-

bility of depletion of water should it happen. The BSN’s maintains that it a good project but the wrong location.

Empty Creek, Oakhurst—The County amended the Oakhurst Area plan changing 132 acres from exisiting Rural

Estate Residential, Rural Residential & Community Commercial to Oakhurst Mixed Use. MOC has made com-

ments and issues still remain with water, traffic and storm runoff. An EIR will be required for each project/

property to be developed.

Liberty Groves—MOC has attended scoping meetings, informational meetings and has submitted comments.

MOC is following along as the project unfolds.

2012 Tesoro Viejo Inc-Rio Mesa—After circulating the Revised Draft and Final Impact Reports, the Board of Supervi-

sors again approved the project on 11/6/12. MOC called upon experts to evaluate the new Traffic, Water, Air

information and feels the studies are still not adequate. MOC has chosen to file a legal challenge to support our

evidence.

Gunner Ranch West—has circulated its Draft EIR to the public for comments. The final EIR may be out to the

public early in 2013. MOC has submitted appropriate comments re Water, Traffic, etc and following progress.

Wright Ranch, Oakhurst—Only hours before the Board was set to hear a request for a parcel split, the County

and Brad Ditton changed the number of parcels from 7 to 4, thus avoiding Quartering. Due to the diligence of

MOC, this action was accomplished by cooperation vs litigation-always our first choice!

Madera County CEQA Code - The County Code has been updated for the first time since its approval in 1972.

Due to the diligence of Planning Staff & input from MOC, the Board has approved the rewriting of the Code.

Austin Quarry-Vulcan Materials—The quarry has circulated its draft EIR to the public for comments. Final EIR

may be out to the public in 2013. MOC has submitted comments on Traffic, Water, etc and is following progress

of the project.

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Scars On Our Sierra Foothills

Tony Ward

Recently, while reading the Sierra Star, we were treated with the reflections of a native-born resident of our Sierra Foothills

in an article presented by T.R. Williams called “Ponder This”. The subject was “Build it and they come---or will they?” The article

looked back at the beauty of our area and some of the long lasting scars that have changed the mountain experience. A number of

these scars are a result of speculative grading. That is, cut a pad and maybe it will be attractive to an investor that cannot visualize

the potential. We have identified at least 14 blemishes that have been with us over six years and in some cases, have become eye-

sores to the tourists.

The updated ordinance would have required that the issuance of a site Grading Permit to be part of and dependent on the

Building Permit on all parcels in the foothill areas of Madera County. It was felt that the flat lands in the County do not experience

the same erosion problems and aesthetic impacts as the Sierra Foothills. This action would have fulfilled the intent of the Policy

section of the General Plan.

The draft updated ordinance was circulated and received negative input from land developers and at the same time, the

Chief Engineer was removed from the County staff.

The attempt to correct speculative grading without an end product building permit was shelved. The updated ordinance

would not have taken away the property rights to build a home, business, barn or whatever, but it would minimize the unsightly long

-term scaring of our scenic mountains.

There will be strong arguments against the coupling of the grading permit to the building permit, but it makes sense. The

unforgiving scars that have been identified above were not necessary and could have waited until needed.

We all can enjoy the natural beauty until the new projects are started.

The reason for this article is to show that there is a win-win answer to the conditions and events expressed in T.R. Wil-

liam’s astute observations in the Sierra Star.

These are a few of the most visible scars from both Highways 41 and 49 and do not include other areas in the foothills.

This list of speculative grading sites could be considered in conflict with the Madera County General Plan Policy, Section I, item

“H”, Visual and Scenic Resources and Policy I.1.2 of Scenic Routes. This was recognized by the then Chief Engineer who hired a

retired Engineer to draft an updated County grading ordinance. You see, none of the County Policies are enforceable without a sup-

porting ordinance. The update was intended to incorporate all of the State and Federal Regulations while addressing the speculative

grading without a commensurate actual project as part of the ordinance.

Take a look at the samples below and on the next page

Ahwahnee – Highway 49 at Harnony Lane

The flat area was graded with the

intent of building a mini-mart but

turned down by the County in the

early 90’s.

Oakhurst – Highway 49 next to Capitol Pipe

These stair-step lots were graded in the

mid 80’s for a proposed development

that never happened. Recently the

new owner requested an Area Plan

change to allow condominiums that

will be built sometime in the future.

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Coarsegold - Highway 41 at Vieter Ranch Road

This land was graded in anticipation of changing the

land use from Rural Residential to Industrial/

Commercial. Change was not accepted.

Coarsegold - Highway 41 next

to Coarsegold Mini Storage

This land was graded in

anticipation of approval

for another Storage Unit

Complex.

Oakhurst – Highway 41 across from the old Curt’s Auto

Repair

The grading was permitted in mid 90’s with no action

other than reality signs.

Oakhurst – Highway 41 at Empty Creek entrance

The north side of road has three parcels graded, which

is a part of a parcel map. The fourth parcel has a tow-

ing company on site. The south side reflects the results

of a D.G. mining operation.

Oakhurst—Highway 41 south of the

furniture store

The knoll was graded with a

permit but no building permit

has been pulled for years.

Oakhurst—Highway 41 above the

Mountain House.

The hill above the restaurant was scalped and graded

for future use. Rumors indicated that the grading was

for future motel use, parking, etc; but no building per-

mits pulled since the mid 90’s. It was once a beautiful

tree covered hill.

Oakhurst – Highway 49 next to Masonic Lodge

The area was graded and removed a stand of pine trees in

anticipation of moving the cement plant operation there.

County was not receptive. Subsequent proposals have fall-

en through. Currently it is a catch-all for other projects.

Oakhurst - Highway 41 across from Sweetwater Cafe

There has been extensive terrace grading for a proposed

miniature golf and water slide park. The project was una-

ble to get off the ground and subsequently, owners have

had equal problems. It still remains an aesthetic eyesore

on the community.

Oakhurst – Highway 49 at Village Road

To date, the extensive grading has no defined project or

known building permit. The owner has a grading permit

showing possible buildings with-

out known commitments.

Ahwahnee – Highway 49 at Hill 55

Road

The hillside was graded to match

current zoning. The front lot is

commercial and the top level is

residential. No building permit

was pulled.

Highway 41 at Road 601

This acreage is grandfathered commercial acreage and

graded to its current state. No project has ever been

identified. It has been a visible scar on the entrance to

Madera County from Mariposa County.

FINAL THOUGHT

Oakhurst & the surrounding communities continue as a wan-

nabe tourist destination and, as such, should embrace ways to

retain what is left to their scenic beauty.

The Wall of Jericho? The Great Wall of China? Walmart?

NO!!! It’s the Coarsegold Wall!!!! So far no plans to fix this “monster”!

Humpty Dumpty sat on the Coarsegold Wall.

OOPS!

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MADERA QUARRY

LOCATION: Road 209. 1 mile west of Hwy 41. 5 miles north of Hwy 145

PROJECT: 900,000 tons per year, approximately 750 trucks per day

IMPACT: These issues impact everyone travelling the Hwy 41 corridor

NOTE: The Material trucks were not to be allowed on this road until it

was improved and made safe! What do you think???

How many trucks a

day?

Are you serious?

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EARTH DAY, originally celebrated at Spring Equi-

nox around March 20, is an annual day on which events are

held worldwide to increase awareness and appreciation of the

earth’s natural environment. Today, Earth Day is coordinated

globally by the Earth Day Network, and is celebrated in more

than 175 countries every year. In 2009, the United Nations

designated April 22 as International Mother Earth Day.

The name and concept of Earth Day was pioneered by

John McConnell in 1969 at an UNESCO Conference in San

Francisco. He proposed March 21, 1970, the first day of

spring in the Northern Hemisphere. This day of nature’s equi-

poise was sanctioned in a Proclamation signed by Secretary

General U Thant at the United Nations. A month later a sepa-

rate Earth Day was founded by United States Senator Gaylord

Nelson as an environmental teach-in that was first held on

April 22, ’70.

While this April 22 Earth Day was focused in the

United States, an organization launched by Denis Hayes, the

original national coordinator in 1970, took it international in

1990 and organized events in 141 nations. Numerous commu-

nities celebrate Earth Week, an entire week of activities fo-

cused on environmental issues.

What better place to celebrate EARTH Day than the

beautiful foothills of the great Sierras.

TREES

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree who hungry mouth is prest

Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by men like me,

But only God can make a tree.

“Trees” was originally published in Trees and Other Poems.

Joyce Kilmer. New York: George H. Doran Company.

Dine In Or Take Out

Whether for Lunch or Dinner The Taste of China

Is Always The Perfect Choice

With Friends or Family

IN VON’S SHOPPING CENTER

40034 Hwy 49, Suite A-1, Oakhurst CA.

(559) 658-7618

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That’s what Lynn Northrup discovered when she purchased the Charles Mil-

ler home in Raymond. Northrup and her husband Wayne are cattle ranchers.

However, Lynn decided she wanted a challenge two years ago and decided to

fix up Raymond’s oldest house. Lynn discovered the “gold” as she and con-

tract Dan Powell got to work. Digging up the history of the site became a

“work of love” as they learned more and more about Raymond and its excit-

ing past.

The Charles Miller home, now the Raymond Museum, is located at 31956

Road 608 in Raymond. It was the first home built in Raymond and was

named as a California Historic Place of Interest in 2008.

Miller was born in Hornitos, but moved to Raymond when he was only 23

years of age. The valley was a tourist destination at the time due to the at-

traction of Yosemite Park. Miller somehow learned that the railroad was

coming to Raymond. He realized that Raymond would be a good stopping

off place for travelers.

He homesteaded the land, laying out streets, and building his home in the most ideal place alongside the railroad tracks. Miller

became a “king in his own kingdom.” He worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad and Yosemite Stage and Turnpike Company.

He ran the Wells Fargo Office and was the telegrapher operator. He even served as Postmaster.

Raymond was booming in those days with visitors of notoriety stopping there to visit. Teddy Roosevelt and John Muir walked

in the streets of Raymond.

Today, thanks the effort of Lynn Northrup, visitors can walk into the past of this small town. Once you reach the porch steps of

the museum, you enter a piece of history. You can see the post office window, rare documents, farm equipment, the clothing of

the time. Local treasures continue to arrive at the museum from donations found by folks, who like Lynn, do not want to see the

past forgotten.

Lynn hopes to instill a real appreciation for Raymond’s past to the younger generations. The house seems to welcome visitors

with a kind of quiet and peace. With Lynn’s energy as she describes the myriad of items, one cannot help being drawn into the

days gone by and leave with a genuine respect for those who came before them.

The Raymond Museum is open Sundays from noon till 4 pm or by appointment – call 559-689-1886. The address is 31956 Road

608. Visitors take the main Raymond Street to the feed store and look across at the old railroad right-of-way. There is a “piece

of history” right before your eyes!

THERE’S GOLD IN THEM THAR HILLS

Raymond Museum

RAYMOND PARADE-April 20

If you miss this one, you missed a doozy of a time!

Bring your lawn chairs, sit back and enjoy!

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RAYMOND GENERAL STORE

History seems to be all around us. Unfortunately, we often drive right on by and fail to take a good look at what is right in front us!. That’s where my mind was a short time ago as I drove down Road 600 through Raymond toward Coarsegold. In the heart of Raymond was an old building with the sign painted on the side “Raymond General Store”. There are not too many buildings in Raymond to begin with; therefore, I assumed this store might be the center of activity in this small town. Contrary to my normal procedure, I stopped to have a better look.

The store was originally built in 1890 by William Downey and still retains it’s original character and purpose as a mercan-tile. I noticed a corner stone reading 1914, but found that was a transition date when the building was taken over by the Lukes. There is a lot of history to be enjoyed here. There is a lot of “today” at the store as well. I treated myself to a great burger and fries. I browsed through the aisles. It was a busy day. The clerks seemed to know everybody by their first name. The porch in front of the store proved to be a great meeting place for the locals.

If you have some extra time—better yet, take the time—to visit Raymond. Check out the museum, take your picture in front of the red caboose, and have lunch at the General Store. Close your eyes and think about the way it was in the “good o ld days.” You’ll be glad you did!

Stephen A. Dahlin D.C.

559-683-6292 After 16 years serving the mountain community

In our old location

WE HAVE MOVED

Our new address is

35463 Highway 41, Coarsegold

Just south of the Shell Station

We now have room to grow our services that include

Chiropractic, Massage, Nutrition, Diet and Exercise.

Call or stop by to see how chiropractic can help you.

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In the San Joaquin Valley, farming and urban devel-

opment drives our economy and water rights play a major

role in our economic success. Understanding California wa-

ter rights is essential to a future of responsible and equitable

management of our water supply. The more that our media

and our politicians boil down issues of water into one-liners

and stump speeches, the more we lose sight of the true mean-

ing behind some of the most important water stories of our

day.

Who owns the water?

Water in California belongs to all the people of Cal-

ifornia and the right to use water is managed by the State

Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). The California

system of water rights is traced back to Roman law, Europe-

an civil law, and English common law, and is based on the

premise that water is common to all and cannot be owned by

any individual. Water rights in modern California uphold this

essential concept with our ‘public trust doctrine’ which es-

tablishes that ownership of water is a right to “use” State

water and this use must be a reasonable and beneficial use.

The term ‘beneficial use’ is defined by the Porter Cologne

Water Quality Control Act and protects State waters from

quality degradation.

Water rights are an important private property right,

and like land ownership, they can be conveyed to others and

taxed. These rights cannot be taken without just compensa-

tion under State law. This right does not mean that the physi-

cal water molecules are private, but rather that the allowed

use is preserved as long as it meets State standards as defined

in the Regional Basin Plans.

When reviewing existing and new applications for

water rights, the State determines whether water is available

ensures that the use would not have adverse impacts to the

instream uses or other users. Protected instream uses may

include navigation, hydroelectric power generation, fish

spawning and migration, recreation, groundwater recharge,

scenic

GETTING BACK TO THE BASICS OF CALIFORNIA WATER RIGHTS Submitted by Chris Acree, Revive the San Joaquin

and aesthetic enjoyment, preservation of rare and endangered

species, maintenance of freshwater habitat, and preservation of

the free-flowing condition or natural character of certain

streams. Water quality is an important consideration in water

right decisions and is managed through nine Regional Water

Quality Control Boards using TMDL’s (Total Maximum Daily

Loads) and other regulatory devices to track the health of our

rivers.

Understanding Riparian and Appropriative Water Rights

Riparian rights are water rights to the natural flow of a

river held by owners of land that own parcels which are contig-

uous to, or abut, a stream or river. The riparian right to water

allows for an un-quantified amount to be used subject to rea-

sonable and beneficial uses on the smallest tract of adjoining

land to a river. Riparian rights cannot be transferred to another

place and cannot be stored seasonally, and they cannot be lost

to non-use. If there is a conflict between uses on a river seg-

ment, the State may require an ‘adjudication’ of that river

which limits the quantity of water used to protect the instream

beneficial uses and the rights of other users.

Appropriative rights are permitted uses of water au-

thorized by the SWRCB for use on parcels not adjacent to

streams. Nearly 60% of State water rights are permitted appro-

priative rights, with the US Bureau of Reclamation being the

largest permit holder managing 33% of these permitted uses.

Under an appropriative right, water can be transferred tempo-

rarily or in the long-term to other users, can be stored for later

use, and can be lost by non-use. The concept of “first in time –

first in right” governs the issuance of permits for appropriative

use.

Appropriative rights are divided into Pre-1914 or Post-

1914 rights based on the date the entity (what entity?) posted

intent to use the water. Pre-1914 rights are similar to Post-1914

rights in their requirements for reasonable and continuous use;

however, they are not subject to SWRCB permitting authority.

Post-1914 appropriative rights are acquired from the SWRCB

through a process of Application, Permit, and License which

gives the authority to divert water.

Current Surface Water Right Issues in California

With over 1,200 dams and countless diversions in Cal-

ifornia, the era of massive water development seems to have

reached its peak. Nowadays there

are as many plans for dam removals

as new construction. As our popula-

tion and demands for water grow,

and our supplies remain constant,

we have seen the rise of water mar-

kets and increased competition

among ‘water seekers.’

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As the era of massive water infrastructure develop-

ment has dwindled, the lion’s share of State funding is still

entangled in an infrastructure-driven philosophy, and as a

result, the SWRCB’s capacity to enforce water rights has

diminished. The SWRCB currently has fewer staff per

1,000 square miles of surface water than in any other State.

An increased reliance on Delta water supplies, the privatiza-

tion of State infrastructure, and politically charged water

grabs have further weakened Board enforcement of water

rights resulting in a general over-allocation of State water

supplies by nearly eight (8) times. This over-allocation is

known as ‘paper water,’ referring to the idea that the gov-

ernment has allocated more water than is available from

Nature’s rivers at any point in time.

A battle between man and nature is played out as

we try to squeeze the last drop of available water out of our

natural river systems. Without strong voices protecting our

natural ecosystems, our rivers suffer. This battle to maintain

healthy rivers is no more evident than in Southern Madera

County where massive urban developments seek land-use

approvals without adequate water rights. As urbanization

projects purchase farm water, agricultural supplies may also

suffer as the urban supply becomes ‘hardened’ by public

safety laws securing minimum delivery amounts in drought

years (you can fallow fields, you cannot fallow subdivi-

sions). Let’s continue our education on the nature of water

rights to ensure that our land-use projects are sustainable,

and not relics of an over-zealous water supply philosophy

that has run its course.

Continued from Page 12

GO TO THE HEAD OF THE CLASS

That is exactly where the Seniors at Yosemite High School are going with the Senior Projects!

I remember when my kids came home from school on Wednesday night and informed me they had a project due on Fri-

day! After a considerable amount of ranting and raving, I would proceed to figure out a way to put a project together before the

due date—two days away. It had to look like it was a joint effort—parent and child—but, who knows? I guess we just did it!

Not so with the Seniors according to Rebecca Hardison, Project Chair. The Class of 2013 is ready, willing and able to put

together service projects designed to “give back” to their community. The projects will be judged and prizes will be given. Judg-

ing from the list of project proposals, all will be winners!

Students have created programs to assist youth groups in activities such as soccer, Boys & Girls Clubs, football, and

cheerleading. In an effort to keep music “alive and well” in schools, a clever Senior will help fledging musicians to play the clari-

net; a dance is being planned for Special Needs students; a car show will assist the Auto Shop Program. The list is long and very

exciting. Michael Leath, Dakota Stump, Scott Smith and Guy Samuelson put together a concert at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian

Church to assist the Church’s efforts with their Jubilee Fund.

Ms. Hardison invites any member of the community to call her at the school, 559-683-4667, ext. 418, if they would like to

contribute to any project in any way. All seniors will participate in the Project Fair on May 12 from 6pm to 8pm at the school.

These young people are our future, Folks! Get behind them as much as you can and cheer them on in their efforts!

14

Sustainable Farming

and Minimalist Winemaking

in O’Neals since 1997 .

By appointment 868-3499

Westbrook Wine Farm Vineyard and Winery

Hidden up in the central Sierra Nevada

above Fine Gold Creek and near the hamlet

of O’Neal’s at around 1,500 feet is one of the

finest small vintners in the entire country,

Owner Ray and his wife Tammy are

master viticulturists and wine makers.

If you are looking for a thoroughly

unique and entertaining experience, call and

reserve your private wine tasting event.

Please call at 559-868-3499 or email at

westbrookwine@sti.net.

(559) 676-3007 General Contractor Lic. # 663298

El Cid

` Everybody knows El Cid! But, will you recognize

the Mexican restaurant when the new addition is completed

and open to diners? As we “read”, construction is under-

way and due to be completed in early May. The new din-

ing area will be a welcome new space. Visitors and locals

will be able to enjoy great food, friendly service, and a cool

Margarita in the expanded area.

Pasley Construction is working hard to finish the

remodel so that locals and tourists alike can enjoy the fine

cuisine at Oakhurst’s famous El Cid.

41939 Highway 41—Oakhurst, CA

COMING SOON

15

Several years ago, a young man knocked on my door, holding a brown paper bag. He pulled a photo album from the bag, showed it to me and asked if I would like to purchase the album for five dollars. He said he had found the book in a trash basket. Someone had told him that I was from Germany and might be interested in the album. I took a quick look at the photos that were taken in the town of Neumarkt, Germany, prior to World War II. They appeared to have been taken around 1925. Although this was not my home town, I was interested to see the old pictures. I gave him the five dollars and set the album aside.

Later that day, I had time to look at this old album. It was dedicated “To Our Dear Max, never forget your old home town.” There were more than sixty remarkably clear and sharp photos showing schools, fountains, a brewery and other shots of a beautiful old town. I was amazed that this special book was in a trash can. I felt that I should find the owner. At the next Sierra Edelweiss German American meeting, I passed the album around. Later, I shared my “treasure” at the German American Club. I even placed an ad in the newspaper. All my efforts were to no avail.

I looked up the town of Neumarkt on the map. There were three towns named Newmarkt in Germany! Trying to find the owner or owners of the mystery album became addictive to me. I researched the information and, by means of deduction, I found that Town #1 was too small; Town #2 was close to the Austrian where the architecture was quite different from the photos; Town #3, east of Nuremburg must be the right one!

What to do? I called a relative in Germany and he gave me an address for the Burgermeister of Neumarkt. I was delighted to return the album to this beautiful town. I only hoped I had sent it to the right town. I thought that would be the end of the story. Not so.

Three weeks later, I received a letter from Dr. G. Moritz who responded in the name of Oberbuergermeister Karl. He thanked me for my efforts to locate the owner and he sent me some wonderful material about the city. In addition, he invited me to visit Germany where “it would be a great joy and honor to welcome you as our guest in

I learned that Neumarkt was a picturesque German town destroyed in the war. At the end of March, 1945, Allied troops had crossed the Rhine River and Neumarkt became the target of two air raids. Most of the citizens left the town. American bombers dropped leaflets demanding surrender of Neumarkt. However, Neumarkt was defended by SS Troops. According their the SS Code, surrender was out of the question. On April 19, 1945, the battle for Neumarkt began and eight per cent of the town was destroyed. By April 22, Neumarkt was in the hands of the American troops.

It was very interesting to hear this piece of history about this small town. The end of the story! Not yet! Soon after my letter from Dr. Moritz, I received more mail from him with “my pictures” displayed in the City Hall. They had been enlarged and beautifully framed. Newspaper clippings from Neumarkt stated that the showing at City Hall had been a huge success. The citizens learned how I had come to possess the album and my efforts to return it to their town. In addition, I was invited to visit their town.

A year later, my brother-in-law David and I took a trip to Germany. I planned to visit Neumarkt during this trip and made arrangements to drive there. I was met at the hotel by Mrs. Gammel. To my surprise, Mrs. Gammel told me she was a relative of Max Gammel, the “Max” of the album. What a surprise!

On Monday morning, none other than the Mayor was our host at a reception that planned for me at the City Hall. I was introduced to dignitaries, speeches were made and I was given presents. There were even reporters from Nuremburg to cover the event. The Mayor was also a historian and had written a large book about the Town which dates back to the 1300s. Most of the buildings David and I toured were new as the former buildings had been destroyed in the War. The photos in the album were precious to the citizens because they had no pictures to remind them of their past since they were lost during the bombing.

A young man from Oakhurst sold me an album and I located the rightful owners. I returned the book and they honored me with a wonderful day at their town. What an adventure followed!

Klaus Penning was born in Germany, served in the German army and was a POW in the Ukraine until 1949. In 1957, he immigrated to the US, where he worked as a farm worker, operated his own sign business, and served on the Chamber of Commerce Board. After retirement, he worked as a ski instructor and tour guide in Yosemite.

ONE MAN’S TRASH = A WHOLE TOWN’S TREASURE

By Klaus Penning

Neumarkt City Hall—Today

In case you want to know the rest of the story, pick up the JULY issue of County Line

16

APRIL

Spagetti Feed-Oakhurst Lions

Chowchilla Western Stampede

Cajun Creole Shrimp Fest

Rag Time Music Festival,

Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast

Cards & Games at ECCO

Earth Day, Feed & Pet Supply

Raymond Day Parade

Coldwater Presents: Mary Flowers

Oakhurst Community Band

MAY

Mountain Gems Quilt Show

Bass Lake Fishing Derby

Coarsegold Rodeo

Flatlander Day Parade

Wooden & Antique Boat Show

Craft Beer Festival

Coarsegold Peddlers’ Fair

Woof & Meow Luau—SPCA

JUNE

Shadow of the Giants Fun Run

Bass Lake Classic Triathlon

Music & Art in the Meadows

Dr. Pence Memorial Golf Tourney

South Shore Car & Boat Show

Bass Lake Boat Fest

Celebrate America Community

Band Concert

ON-GOING EVENTS

Free Admission to Yosemite Park 4/23—4/27

National Park Week

Madera Flea Market

Fridays at Fresno Flats

Birding at Eastman Lake

Oakhurst Woodcarvers Rendezvous

Bass Lake Arts & Crafts Show

Bass Lake Farmer’s Market

Farmer’s Market at True value Hardware

Chowchilla-Madera County Fair

Oakhurst Community Band

Great Outdoors Day Free admission to park

Moonlight Special—Sugar Pine Railroad

Stage Coach Route Tour

Did I hear somebody say, “What the heck do you do up

there?”

Are you kidding me? Take a look!

ANSWER YOUR QUESTION?

There is so much to do and so many of those fun times

are FREE! You just need to pack up the family and visit

any or all of the events scheduled in our beautiful moun-

tain community.

And…..don’t forget the good food and friendly service

available at the restaurants in the area.

For more detailed information, including times and

dates, log on to www.yosemitethisyear.com/events.

A great adventure is just around the bend.

17

Sunday, May 12, is Mothers Day. Happy Mothers

Day! The emphasis in this piece is on the word DAY. Once

a year, mothers get a day. Did you know that pickles get a

whole month? Yes, they do! Every pickle enjoys National

Pickle Month. Did you ever know a Pickle who became

pregnant and suffered morning sickness, swollen ankles and

a major weight gain? Does a pickle birth her little baby pick-

le after enduring? Does she nurse that little pickle, walk the

floor at night and rock the crying little pickle when it needs

comfort? I have never met a pickle who ironed little shirts

and dresses, polished little pickle shoes or changed little

pickle diapers. But, as I said, “Pickles get a month. Moth-

ers get a day.”

How about this one—National Grapefruit Month?

How many grapefruits have you seen navigating through the

school parking lot on a rainy day? How many grapefruits

run to the 7/11 late at night to get lunch goodies because her

baby grapefruit doesn’t like cafeteria food? Oh, well.

Grapefruits get a month. Mothers get a day.

This is one of my favorites— National Frog

Month! Yep! Those slimy little creatures get a full month. I

know they have polliwogs; however, do they watch them or

panic when one of the brood is missing? Do they send them

off to school and hope some bully frog doesn’t beat them

up? Do they mortgage the pond to get the froglings into col-

lege? More than likely these polliwogs are raised in a single

parent frog pond because we all know that Mr. Frog hops on,

hops off, and then croaks! Mother Frog takes on all the re-

sponsibility. Those Mother Frogs get a whole month. Hu-

man Mothers get a day.

Real mothers don’t need a National Month or Week

or even the ever popular Mothers Day. Real moms can cele-

brate their special day every day! The celebration begins

that very first moment at birth when she looks down at that

tiny creature wrapped in a blanket. A real mom’s heart

swells with love! There are so many very special days all

moms remember—the first step, the first tooth, the first day

of school.. There are simply so very many very special days,

a real Mother cannot list them all.

Mothers Day is okay for the Hallmark people, the

florist shops and the fancy restaurants. We real Mothers

know that every day is Mothers Day because we can just pull

one of those wonder-

ful memories from

their secret places in

our hearts and thank

the good Lord for

the privilege of be-

ing a Mother!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

ENJOY A GREAT

BREAKFAST

LUNCH OR DINNER

BEST TASTING

HOME STYLE HAMBURGERS

IN THE WEST

HOURS

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM We’ll Make Your Tummy Really Happy

REAL SMOKEREAL SMOKE

BARBECUED RIBS

Located in the Historic Pioneer Village at 35300 Highway 41 in Coarsegold California

18

Check out the many styles and types of hand crafted

custom bags, placemats, pillows and pouches. All with

animal themes

19

The next issue of the County Line will be available in July. The Madera Oversight Coali-

tion and the County Line want to highlight the United States of America on its birthday—

JULY 4, 2013!

We are asking for your support and assistance in making this a very special issue . If you

have a Favorite Patriot or an American Hero whose story you would like to share with your

community, please let us know by sending your contribution to the County Line at

countylinemadera.com. If you prefer to contact us by phone, please call at 559-676-0587.

The deadline for contributions is May 15.

Dine In Or Take Out

Whether for Lunch or Dinner The Taste of China

Is Always The Perfect Choice

With Friends or Family

IN VON’S SHOPPING CENTER

40034 Hwy 49, Suite A-1, Oakhurst CA.

(559) 658-7618

20

TIME TO TICKLE YOUR FUNNY BONE

A clergyman was walking down a country lane when he sees a young farmer struggling to load hay onto a cart after it had fall-en off.

“You look hot, son.” said the Cleric. “Why don’t you rest a moment and I’ll give you a hand.”

The young man answered, “No thanks. My father wouldn’t like it.”

“Don’t be silly,” the minister said. “Everyone is entitled to a break. Come and have a drink of water.”

Again the young man protested that his father would be upset. Losing his patience, the minister said, “Your father must be a real slave driver. Tell me where he is and I’ll give him a piece of my mind!”

“Well, sir,” replied the young man. “He’s under the load of hay.”

***********************************************

A State Trooper pulled over a farmer on a rural road and said, “Sir, did you know your wife fell out of your truck several miles ago?”

“Thank, God!” replied the farmer. “I thought I had gone deaf!”

***********************************************

FOWL PLAY!!!

A farmer’s son was returning from the market with a crate of chickens his father had entrusted to him. All of a sudden, the box of chickens fell off the back of the pick up truck and the chickens scurried every which way!

The poor young man searched high and low, all over the place until he felt that he had rounded up all the chickens.

Arriving home, he said, “Pa, the chickens fell off the truck but I rounded up all 12 of them.”

“Well,” said Pa. “You did real well, son. You only left with 7.”

***********************************************

Sheri Lee Owner/Agent

Insurance Agent Lic # 0A60554 Agency Lic # 0722322

Post Office Box 2040

Oakhurst California 93644 683-4411

(559) 683-0414

Email kraftinsurance@sti.net Kraftandleeinsurance.com

Dine-In, Call-In, Take-Out

Salad Bar, Baked Potato Bar

Fresh Home Made Soup

Delicious Deli Sandwiches

Delivery Available

(559) 641-6167

At the corner of Road 426 and

School Road

Order on line at

MyProducePlace.com

21

Dads are the greatest!

Best wishes to all Dads, everywhere!

Happy Fathers Day

22

During certain times of the year residential landscape debris burning of dead vegetation is allowed. However, homeowners should always check with their local CAL FIRE station and local air quality management agency before burning. In many area burn permits may be required. To find out if it is a permissive burn day in your area, contact your local air quality district. Contact information may be found at the State Air Resources Board website.

The following are burning permit requirements:*

For burning debris in small 4-feet x 4-feet piles:

▪▪ Maximum pile size 4 foot in diameter.

▪▪ Clear all flammable material and vegetation within 10-feet of the outer

edge of pile.

▪▪ Keep a water supply close to the burning site.

▪▪ An adult should be in attendance with a shovel until the fire is out.

▪▪ No burning shall be undertaken unless weather conditions (particularly

wind) are such that burning can be considered safe.

No household trash or garbage can be burned outdoors at residences. Dry,

natural vegetation, grown on the property can still be burned outdoors in

open piles, unless prohibited by local ordinances. Burning can only be done on

permissive burn days. Burn permits are only valid on “Permissive Burn Days” as

determined by the State Air Resources Board or the local Air Pollution Control

District (APCD).

)

Violations Of Any Burning Permit Terms Are A Violation Of State Law

(Public Resources Code 4421, 4422, 4423 And 4425)

CALL FOR BURN STATUS

877-429-2876

GRAND OPENING

HAPPY FEET

Foot Massage

Open 7 days a week

10AM to 10PM

40148 Highway 41 559-658-5138

10% Discount

With this

Coupon

23

WHEN THE SAFETY & QUALITY OF WHAT

YOU SERVE YOUR FAMILY IS IMPORTANT

THEN THERE IS ONLY ONE CHOICE

Pete runs an all-natural grass fed beef ranch. All beef are free-range happy cattle and have not been given growth hormones or other unnatural nutritional enhancements of any kind.

Store is located in The Coarsegold Village just off Highway 41 near the large teepee.

Stop by and see for yourself why

PETE MILLER RANCH

Grass Fed Beef Is The Best Choice

Yosemite Valley Sugar Pine Rail Road

It’s “ALL ABOARD” for the Logger Steam Train Adven-ture through the woods. Relive a piece of our moun-tain history when loggers and Shay Steam Engines ruled the woods

Don’t miss our very popular “Moonlight Special”. Enjoy a fabulous barbeque dinner, live music, and a memorable steam engine ride into the woods under the stars. It’s the perfect romantic date.

Reservations are suggested for this very popular event. Check the railroad schedule for dates and times

www.ymsprr.com

56001Highway 41,m Fish Camp CA

559-683-7273

24

Stan Busby is ready to clean or

repair your wood stove, pellet stove or

gas inserts. His seven years of experience

have taken him to the far reaches of

Madera County. Stan is bonded and li-

censed.

A resident of Coarsegold, Stan

has worked and is well known as an all-

around Handy Man. If it breaks, Stan can

fix it! If it needs a good professional

cleaning, Stan can handle those messy

jobs as well.

C & R Stove Service and

Repair

Owned and operated by

Stan Busby

44848 Person Loop

Coarsegold CA. 93614

559.665.1487 559.642.2504

E-Mail stan@sti.net

The Kathouse

Custom Tattoo Studio

Owned and operated by

Vincent Sipe

40176 Hwy 41

Oakhurst CA. 93644

559-683-7273

Why do people get tattoos? There are as many reasons to get a tattoo as they are people who get them. Some want to commemorate a loved one. Oth-ers get a religious tattoo such as the face of Jesus or a cross. The military is al-ways a popular reason with tattoos of eagles or flags. Lately, the rule of thumb is simple: “I want to get a tattoo just for fun”

Vincent and his talented crew

are available at The Kathouse to take care of your tattoo. Each member of the crew is an artist whose skills are well known. If you ever wanted to give a tattoo a try, now is the time. The artists are right here in Oakhurst.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Shop locally

Luke Starner was born and

raised in Oakhurst. He and his family live

in Clovis, but hope to return to the foot-

hills in the near future.

Luke does all kinds of construc-

tion—everything from A-Z. No job is too

large nor too small for L.T. Starner & Sun

Construction. He completes a job from

start to finish. All work is turn key ready.

In addition, Luke installs metal buildings

and solar panels. (I had to ask what

“Sun” represented on his business card).

When you are ready to remodel,

add a deck or have any construction

needs, give Luke Starner a call to get the

job done.