North Fork News

SOTU 2012 ~ Word Cloud

2012-01-24T20:55:00.000-08:00

President Obama's State of the Union address in a word cloud format.

Pretty cool picture.

© Copyright 2012 North Fork News

National Park Entry Fee Waived

2012-01-13T20:19:00.000-08:00

National Parks Promotional Council publicized Fee-FREE days
for all National Parks for 2012.

This means that entry into Yosemite National Park is FREE
on the following dates:

Martin Luther King Day Weekend- January 14 -16
National Parks Week - April 21 -29
Great Outdoors Day - June 9
Public Lands Day - September 29
Veterans Day Holiday Weekend - November 10-12

© Copyright 2012 North Fork News

Holiday Local Events

2011-11-20T22:48:00.000-08:00

Nov 24
Buckhorn Saloon Thanksgiving Dinner
11:30am till gone
32992 Main St, North Fork
Info: 877-8700

Dec 3
North Fork Christmas Bazaar, 9am-3pm
NF Town Hall, Over 45 Vendors
Lunch & Dessert available, Info: 877-4554

Dec 3
Songs of the Season, 7pm
North Fork School Kennedy Hall
Adults $8, Child & Senior $4, Family $20
Beverages & Desserts available
Info: 841-6229

Dec 10
Annual Children's Parade, 2pm
Main St, North Fork, Info: 877-7590

November & December Community Events

2011-10-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

Nov 4/5 & 11/12
Squirrel Cage Theatre Fall Follies, NF Town Hall,
Dinner 6pm, Show 7pm, Adults $12, Children/Seniors $6,
Musical acts & Melodrama, Info: 877-2129

Nov 5
Parking Lot Sale, 9am-2pm,
Hillside Baptist Church fundraiser,
Info: 877-7771

Nov 12
Sierra Mono Museum Annual Membership Dinner,
NF School Kennedy Hall, Dinner 3-6pm,
Public Welcome, Annual Membership $25, Dinner only $10,
RSVP & Info: 877-2115

Dec 3
North Fork Christmas Bazaar, 9am-3pm,
NF Town Hall, Over 45 Vendors,
Lunch & Dessert available,
Info: 877-4554

October Community Events

2011-09-27T13:24:00.000-07:00

Sep 30 - Oct 2
Sierra Art Trails
North Fork Artists join mountain-wide art event,
10am-6pm, Info: 658-8844,
www.sierraarttrails.org

Oct 1
Annual Grizzly Century Bike Ride
7am Start time at North Fork School,
Info: www.grizzlycentury.org

Oct 1
North Fork Fall Festival
Info: 877-4806, 877-2282

Breakfast, 6-10am, North Fork School, Adults $6, Kids under 12 $5
North Fork Craft Faire, 9am- 3pm, Town Hall Upper Parking Lot
Antique Engine Display, 10am-3pm, Town Hall Lower Parking Lot
NF Women's Club Community Yard Sale, 9am-3pm, Info: 877-4806
NF History Group Display, 10am-3pm, Scout Building by Town Hall
NF Arts Council Fine Arts Show, 10am-6pm, Town Hall
US Forest Service Employees Association Dinner, 2-7pm, Town Hall
Sierra Mono Museum, Rd 225 & 228, Info: 877-2115

Oct 8/9
Annual Harvest Arts & Peace Festival
10am-4pm, Intermountain Nursery,
30443 N. Auberry Rd, Prather.
$1 parking fee per car per day,
Crafts, Food & Music. Info: 855-3113

Oct 11
Seasonal Flu Shots-
Madera County Health Dept Mobile Unit,
9:30-11am, North Fork Post Office parking lot,
FREE, cash contribution accepted, Info: 675-7893

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Early Morning Earthquake!

2011-08-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

Did you feel the earthquake that happened at 4:59 this morning?

I sure did! It woke me right up! Shook my house for a few seconds. Thankfully, no damage here.

It was a 4.2 magnitude quake centered near Mammoth Lakes, CA. See the map above and click on this USGS link for more info.

Lots of quakes happening around the country this week. We live in exciting times.

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Local Poets Book Signing ~ August 27th

2011-08-17T20:12:00.000-07:00

Ruth Rosenthal & Paul Abram at North Fork Summer Nights Luau on Main Street

Ruth Rosenthal and Paul Abram, two of our local North Fork neighbors, will read from their newest books and autograph them for you. Come out to see them at our own North Fork Art Gallery on Saturday, August 27th.

August 27
Poetry Reading & Book Signing, 1-3pm,
North Fork Community Art Gallery
Old Millsite/57839 Rd 225, North Fork
featuring poets Ruth Rosenthal & Paul Abram

More Info: Poetry Website

Be sure to check out their combined website http://www.paulnruthsbookstore.com/
and also their blog paulnruthsbookstore.blogspot.com

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Late July Early August

2011-07-20T13:14:00.000-07:00

July 23
Poetry Reading & Book Signing, 2pm, Willow Bridge Books,
Oakhurst, featuring poets Ruth Rosenthal & Paul Abram
More Info: Poetry Website

July 23
North Fork Summer Nights, Main Street in North Fork,
Luau with roasted pig, music and local business booths.
Music starts at 7pm. Info: Scott @ Slim's 877-6300

July 23/24
Artist Don Grove, 11am-3pm, North Fork Art Gallery
57839 Rd 225, Info: 877-3017

Aug 6
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Summer Tour~
Nelder Grove Giant Sequoias,
meet in the Mountain House parking lot (at the corner of Highway 41 and Rd 222 in Oakhurst) at 9am, carpools will form. To reserve lunch for $10 donation call Doug 877-2760 two days in advance, More Info: SVSBA Website

Aug 6/7
Annual Sierra Mono Museum Indian Fair Days & Pow Wow,
NF Recreation Center,
Info: 877-6515 or Museum Website

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Bass Lake Fireworks!

2011-07-08T11:57:00.000-07:00

This is the last few seconds of the 2011 Bass Lake Fireworks Finale!

A fun time.

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

July Community Events

2011-06-22T22:07:00.001-07:00

Logger's Jamboree Events Arena ~ July 2008

July 2
Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree,
Info: 877-7700
Pro-Am Contest, 11am, Recreation Center, $5
Horseshoe Pitching Contest, 12 noon
Grand Parade down North Fork’s Main St, 5pm
BBQ at Town Hall, 6pm, $10 adults, $5 kids under 12
Woodchoppers Ball & Queen Coronation,
Recreation Ctr, 8:30pm, $10 ea, $15 per couple

July 3
Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree,
Info: 877-7700
Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, NF Town Hall 7-10am, $5
Jamboree Main Logging Events,
Recreation Ctr, 12 noon, Gates open 10am, $5 adults

July 16
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Summer Tour~Hydro Electricity & Railroads
meet at North Fork Post Office at 9am, carpools,
to reserve lunch for $10 donation call Doug 877-2760 or Jack 877-3952,
More Info: SVSBA Website

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

June Happenings

2011-06-02T21:33:00.000-07:00

Jun 4
Minarets Mountain Fair, 8am-10pm
Minarets High School
45077 Road 200, O’Neals (near Hwy 41)
Vendor Booths, Food, Car Show
Info: (559) 868-8689 & http://www.minaretsfair.com/

Jun 4/5
Pick & Gather Festival at Riverdance Farms
12230 Livingston Cressey Rd, Livingston, CA.
Pick your own organic cherries & blueberries!
Info:(559)877-5800

Jun 11
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day, 9am-1pm,
Yosemite High School student parking lot, Oakhurst.
Chemical waste, electronic waste & SHARPS will be accepted.
NO medical or radioactive wastes. Households only.
No business waste accepted.
Call for more specifics before attending event.
(559) 675-7817

Jun 18
Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee
5-8:30pm, Mokichi Okada Association Oasis Garden,
5790 Indianola Av in Clovis,
Adults $5, Kids under 12 FREE
Info: (559) 877-5800 & (559) 324-0465
http://www.fruitjubilee.org/

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

May & June Local Events

2011-05-15T22:28:00.000-07:00

A Red Hat Day!

May 21
NF Women's Club Bunco & Books Fundraiser
11am - 3pm,Scout Building next to Town Hall
$12 presale, $14 at the door.
Info: 877-4806

Jun 11
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day
9am-1pm, Yosemite High School student parking lot, Oakhurst.
Chemical waste, electronic waste & SHARPS will be accepted.
NO medical or radioactive wastes. Households only.
No business waste accepted.
Call for more specifics before attending event. (559) 675-7817

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Senate Bill 147 Follow-Up Report

2011-04-27T20:46:00.001-07:00

A "green" non-toxic couch ~ NOT purchased in California!

An update from Arlene Blum about our last post about SB147:

This Monday at a hearing of the Senate Business and Professions Committee , eight California Senators – Curren Price, Bill Emerson, Lou Correa, Ed Hernandez, Gloria Negrete McLeod, Juan Vargas, Mimi Walters, and Mark Wyland – vote- “No” to Mark Leno’s SB 147 to give consumers the choice to purchase fire safe furniture without toxic flame retardants.

On the Leno side were 30 eloquent voices of fire fighters, scientists, physicians, and health officers representing many thousands of Californians. Opposed to the bill were three speakers who work for the bromine industry front group Citizens for Fire Safety. The main industry argument was there was that new flame retardants (similar in structure and properties to the old ones and lacking any health information) were safe. Why did the bromine industry receive eight of nine committee votes? Could contributions the bromine industry had made to the five Democratic committee members who voted "No" had an influence on their votes?

The Leno bill will be heard for a final vote on reconsideration next Monday, May 2nd. Can we persuade four of the eight Senators who voted "No" to change their minds and support SB147?

Our immediate next step should include calling the Senator's offices to voice our outrage about this vote, and ask their support for next Monday’s final vote. Please call and ask for the staff member whose name follows the office phone number Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee Members

NO VOTES

Curren Price (Chair) Los Angeles, Hollywood, West LA 916 651-4026 Lisa Martin

Bill Emmerson (Vice-Chair) Riverside County, 916 651-4037, Kayla Williams

Lou Correa Anaheim and Santa Ana area 916 651-4034 John Scribner

Juan Vargas San Diego, Riverside, Imperial County 916 651-4040 Ermelinda Ruiz

Mimi Walters Fullerton, Laguna Hills, Orange, Mission Viejo 916 651-4033

Edward Hernandez Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley 916 651-4024 Annabel Snider

Gloria Negrete McLeod San Bernardino area 916 651-4032 Andrew Langley

Mark Wyland North San Diego County 916 651-4038

YES VOTE

Ellen Corbett Alameda and Santa Clara 916 651-4010

Here are some possible talking points:

Scientific research associates flame retardant chemical exposure in humans with decreased IQ and fertility and with thyroid hormone changes. How can the Senator's justify denying me the CHOICE for furniture and baby products free of these chemicals?

Firefighters, doctors, scientists, health officers, all support SB147. The bromine industry and those who work for them are the opposition. Why is the Senator is voting with the industry and against the well being of our state?

As a member of the Business, Professions and Economic Development committee, I'm appalled that you are denying manufacturers the ability to meet consumer demand for furniture that is fire safe, without toxic or untested flame retardants. By not supporting SB 147, you are stifling CA's green economy, job opportunities since businesses say this bill is good for keeping jobs here

Mark Leno’s SB 147, the Consumer Choice Fire Protection Act, does not ban any chemicals. It gives consumers the choice to buy furniture and baby products that are both fire safe and non-toxic.

SB 147 will restore consumer confidence in products made in and made for California.

Manufacturers will not be forced to put toxic chemicals in their products.

A California flammability label will not be a euphemism for “Warning! Toxic Product!”

There is a sample letter below... Thanks for calling, writing, or best of all visiting Senate offices to ask for the Senator's support for SB 147..

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

Here is a sample letter you can edit and send, fax, or email:

Dear Senator:I am outraged at your vote on SB 147 -- your decision denies me the RIGHT to protect my family from chemicals that increase our risk of being injured or killed in a fire, cause cancer, lower IQ scores, and cause developmental and reproductive disorders. More than thirty organizations testified in support of SB 147, including firefighters, doctors, furniture manufacturers, health research scientists, fire scientists, community health groups
& environmental groups.

Their in-person expert testimony in our state capitol represented the interests of Californians. Only one infamous Sacramento lobbyist, a chemist from Florida, and one burn doctor from Washington state-the same people industry has employed for years-showed up to oppose this measure. They were paid for their travel and time from the chemical industry front group, Citizens for Fire Safety. It is no surprise that the industry making these chemicals would claim their product is “effective” and “safe.” It is surprising, however, that you would take their word over the testimony of University of California scientists, the California Firefighters, the College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, furniture and foam manufacturers, and the many other experts and community members who testified in support of SB 147.

As a member of the committee mandated to support jobs and economic development for California, your decision on this bill appalls me. You voted to deny businesses the ability to meet consumer demand for furniture that would a) increase fire safety and b) leave out toxic or untested flame retardant chemicals.

Businesses say that SB 147 will help keep jobs here in California, and grow our economy with greener, safer products. Why are you blocking new technologies and ways of ensuring fire safety that will better protect my family? Why do you support any improvement to our currently ineffective and therefore dangerous standard? Despite your constituents demonstrating clear support for SB 147, and despite the supporting evidence from top experts, you threw your support to the bromine chemical industry that hires no Californians except lobbying firms, and that puts profits above all else. Why do you take the word of the chemical industry rather than scientists, doctors, and firefighters?

I do not want these chemicals in my home. I am outraged that you are forcing proven endocrine disrupting, carcinogenic, reproductive toxins into my home. Fire scientists say these chemicals do not keep me safe from fires. Their harmful health effects have been proven by hundreds of health researchers and doctors.

I urge you to reconsider your vote. Support SB 147. Allow me the RIGHT to increase the odds of my family surviving a home fire. Allow me the RIGHT protect my family from these harmful chemicals.

Sincerely,
(sign your name here)

****************************
Arlene Blum PhD
Arlene@arleneblum.com Visiting Scholar, Chemistry University of California, Berkeley Executive Director, Green Science Policy Institute
Telephone: 510 644-3164
Mobile: 510 919-6363
Web: www .greensciencepolicy.org, http://www.arleneblum.com/

The Green Science Policy Institute provides unbiased scientific information to government, industry, and non-governmental organizations to facilitate more informed decision-making about chemicals used in consumer products in order to protect health and environment world-wide.

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Anti-Flame Retardant Bill ~ SB147

2011-04-21T19:36:00.000-07:00

My family members and I each called every one of the senators listed below today and asked to have our names added to the roster of people who are IN FAVOR of CA Senate Bill 147 (SB147)passing.

I am forwarding this plea (see below) for action to you from chemistry scientist Arlene Blum. Please read it, call the phone numbers and pass it along to any and all of your email/Facebook/Twitter contacts that you feel will care about this issue enough to take positive action.

This issue is very important to me. It is very important for our own health, the health of our kids and our precious pets. Please help get this bill passed by calling any or all of the phone numbers listed below and ask that they pass Senate Bill 147 to stop the requirement for toxic flame retardants in our furniture and household products in California.

You can find out more about scientist Arlene Blum at these websites: http://www.greensciencepolicy.org/, http://www.arleneblum.com/

She has been instrumental in getting legislation passed to remove the toxic fire retardants from our children’s pajama products many years ago. I first heard of her in a Los Angeles Times article about her cat dying of hyperthyroid disease likely due to the toxic flame retardants in her furniture. The flame retardants build up in our blood, and in our kids and pets too, causing long term diseases. I have been on a mission to remove all of the toxic chemicals from my own and my family members' homes ever since I found out about this.

I really want those of us who live in CA to be able to purchase non-toxic furniture for our homes, and right now we can’t do that inside CA. My family recently replaced our living room furniture with special, non-toxic furniture from a wonderful manufacturer in Pennsylvania. Let me know if you want their info.

Thank you so much for calling the numbers below and helping to get SB147 passed. It means a lot to me.

To our health & well being,

Farmer Jen

*******************
From: Arlene Blum
Sent: Thursday, April 21, 2011 5:41 AM
To: Arlene Blum
Cc: Ana Mascareñas
Subject: Your calls urgently needed

Dear Friends,

We have reached a critical point in our work for California Senate Bill 147 (SB147) to give consumers an alternative to toxic flame retardants in furniture and baby products. This Monday the bill may die at a hearing of the California Senate Business and Professions Committee (B and P). We urgently need you to call State Senate’s offices this week to express your support for SB 147.

The fate of the bill lies in the hands of the Southern California Senators listed below. They need information and your encouragement to overcome chemical industry money and lobbying and vote for SB147. Your calls to these Senate offices could make a significant difference.

Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee Members

Curren Price (Chair) Los Angeles, Hollywood, West LA 916 651-4026

Bill Emmerson (Vice-Chair) Riverside County, 916 651-4037

Edward Hernandez Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley 916 651-4024

Lou Correa Anaheim and Santa Ana area 916 651-4034

Gloria Negrete McLeod San Bernardino area 916 651-4032

Juan Vargas San Diego, Riverside, Imperial County 916 651-4040

Mimi Walters Fullerton, Laguna Hills, Orange, Mission Viejo 916 651-4033

Mark Wyland North San Diego County 916 651-4038

Here are some quick talking points, but please do use your own words:

Please support SB 147 - The Consumer Choice Fire Safety Act - to maintain fire safety and give consumers th choice to buy furniture and baby products free of toxic or untested chemicals.

The chemicals enter our bodies from our furniture and are associated with cancer, lowered IQ, reproductive problems, thyroid impairments, endocrine disruption, and birth defects.

If you have any health concerns that could be linked to toxics in products, please express them.

There is no fire safety benefit from the current flammability standard.

This committee is the toughest hurdle for SB147 which has a good chance of passing if it can make it through the hearing on Monday. Your calls will help reduce the impact of chemical industry money and influence.

Thanks in advance for your visits, calls and ideas. Ana and I are happy to answer your questions

Kind regards,
Ana and Arlene

Ana Mascareñas Policy & Communications Coordinator
Physicians for Social Responsibility - Los Angeles (PSR-LA)
617 S. Olive St., Ste. 200, Los Angeles, CA 90014
office 213-689-9170 cell 323-743-3241

Arlene Blum PhD
Arlene@arleneblum.com
Visiting Scholar, Chemistry
University of California, Berkeley
Executive Director, Green Science Policy Institute
Telephone: 510 644-3164 Mobile: 510 919-6363
Web: http://www.greensciencepolicy.org/, www.arleneblum.com

The Green Science Policy Institute provides unbiased scientific information to government, industry, and non-governmental organizations to facilitate more informed decision-making about chemicals used in consumer products in order to protect health and environment world-wide.

© Copyright 2011 North Fork News

Location Change for Town Hall Meeting tonight!

2011-03-31T13:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight's North Fork Town Hall Meeting will be held a the Rancheria Community Center (top of the hill) NOT at the North Fork Town Hall as previously announced.

Mar 31

North Fork Town Hall Meeting, 6-8pm, Rancheria Community Center

Meeting with Madera County Supervisor Tom Wheeler. This is the only Town Hall Mtg scheduled for North Fork this year, so be sure to attend and bring your community questions & concerns for Supervisor Wheeler.

Apr 11 ~ Note the Time Change! Annual Mtg now 7pm

Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Association Annual Meeting, 7pm, National Forest Ranger District Board Room, 57003 Rd. 225 in North Fork, Info: 877-7779

Slim's Koffee Shak ~ Now Open

2011-03-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

Slim's Koffee Shak ~ 33013 Main St in North Fork ~ 877-6300

We have a new coffee house in our town. Slim's Koffee Shak has been open for about a week now and is doing a booming business!

Slim's is located across from the Buckhorn Saloon at 33013 Main St. It is a friendly shop with a cozy atmosphere that has much to offer. Their motto is "Hospitality First, Coffee Second".

Here are some photos highlighting some of what Slim's has to offer our community:

Coffee & Snacks:

A variety of special loose leaf teas from which to choose:

More delicious snacks:

An enticing food menu:

The food menu includes sandwiches made in-house by happy owner Scott Marsh and his cheerful crew:

This cozy gathering place also offers free Wi-Fi access:

As I said before, Slim's Koffee Shak is already creating a name for itself as the new go-to place for lunch and also with the morning commuter crowd calling in their orders and picking them up on the way to work.

Slim's also offers sunny outside seating:

So come on out to downtown North Fork to check out Slim's Koffee Shak's menu. A cup of coffee or tea is just $2. Speciality coffee drinks are also available. I hear that the Caramel Latte is very popular.

Slim's is open Monday - Friday 6am-8pm, and Saturday & Sunday 9am-9pm

Oh, and in case you were wondering why the Shak is called "Slim's", this is the very friendly Slim:

Such a sweetie!

You can also find Slim's Koffee Shak on Facebook.

You can read the March 10, 2011 Sierra Star article about Slim's by clicking HERE

March & April Local Events

2011-02-26T22:22:00.000-08:00

Mar 31
North Fork Town Hall Meeting, 6-8pm, North Fork Town Hall, Meeting with Madera County Supervisor Tom Wheeler. This is the only Town Hall Mtg scheduled for North Fork this year, so be sure to attend and bring your community questions & concerns for Supervisor Wheeler.

Apr 11 ~ Note the Time Change! Annual Mtg now 7pm
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Association Annual Meeting, 7pm, National Forest Ranger District Board Room, 57003 Rd. 225 in North Fork, Info: 877-7779

Apr 16
Earth Day Fair, 10am-4pm, North Fork School, Info: 877-8663

Autumn Community Events

2010-11-01T19:25:00.000-07:00

Nov 6
North Fork Studio Spaghetti Feast Fundraiser, 5-10pm,

North Fork Town Hall, $7 Adults/$15 Family,

Dinner, Music & Raffle, Info: 877-6444

Nov 20
Poet Ruth Rosenthal "Like Fallen Snow" New Book Celebration,

Reading, Book Signing, Music & Potluck,

6pm at The Studio in NF, Info: 877-3663

Dec 4
North Fork Christmas Bazaar, 9am-3pm, North Fork Town Hall,

Over 45 Vendors, Lunch & Dessert available,

Info: 877-4554, 877-2078

Happy Baby McKee Update

2010-09-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

Anastina & Odie

I am happy to report that little Anastina Linkhart McKee, is out of the hospital and back home in Guam with her very happy and grateful Mom & Dad.

Mom Miira with Anastina

Anastina was born 4 months ago and weighs 5lb 6oz now. She is finally graduating from syringe feedings to being bottle fed, which has made her parents very, very happy.

Her family is adjusting to having a very special newborn baby in the house and learning about all of the usual things that go with that adventure. Like lack of sleep and lots of new chores. They definitely are learning to "sleep when the baby sleeps"!

Dad & Baby fast asleep

The family of three has attended church together and ventured out to dinner at a local restaurant now that Anastina has portable oxygen available to make travel easier.

Good times out at the restaurant

Baby Anastina is the granddaughter of Bob McKee (Hardware Bob) and great-granddaughter of Loretta & Bob McKee Sr, all of North Fork.

Again, we thank all of you who have given your support, prayers and well wishes over the past few months since her birth. Your help has truly made a positive difference in her young life.

Upcoming Local Events

2010-09-03T16:55:00.000-07:00

Sep 18
2nd Annual Casino Night Fundraiser, North Fork Town Hall,
Dinner 6pm, Casino Play 7-10pm, admission price includes dinner & casino play.

Presale Tickets $35 (21yr & up only), after Sep 1st $40. Reserve a table for 8 for $270 before 9/1 or $300 after 9/1. All profits will benefit Chawanakee School District programs, Info: 877-4458, 877-7790 or Email

Oct 2
Annual Grizzly Century Bike Ride, 7am Start time at North Fork School, Info: http://www.grizzlycentury.org/

Oct 2
North Fork Fall Festival, Info: 877-4806, 877-2282

Omelet Breakfast, 6-10am, North Fork School, Adults $6, Kids under 12 $5
North Fork Craft Faire, 8am- 3pm, Town Hall Upper Parking Lot
Antique Engine Display, 10am-3pm, Town Hall Lower Parking Lot
NF Women's Club Community Yard Sale, 8am-3pm, Info: 877-4806
NF History Group Display, 10am-3pm, Scout Building by Town Hall
NF Arts Council Fine Arts Show, 10am-6pm, Town Hall
US Forest Service Employees Association Dinner, 2-7pm, Town Hall
Sierra Mono Museum, Rd 225 & 228, Info: 877-2115

Dec 4
North Fork Christmas Bazaar, 9am-3pm, NF Town Hall,
Over 45 Vendors, Lunch & Dessert available, Info: 877-4554, 877-2078

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Anastina McKee Update

2010-07-22T12:29:00.001-07:00

Favorite Sleeping Position ~ Little Froggy Style

Very Aware of her Surroundings ~ Big Brown Eyes

Smiling While Sleeping?

Anastina weighs 1790 grams now (3.94 lbs). She is being fed breast milk and handling it well. Her doctors seem a bit surprised she's thriving and gaining weight so quickly, but how could she not thrive with all of the love and support she is receiving from her family and friends.

She still has a long way to go (and grow!) before she is truly out of danger, but she is improving daily at this point.

We just wanted you all to know how's she's doing.

For more info and updates, please click on the special Facebook group link below:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=127194360640696

As always, thank you all for your concern, your prayers and your generous donations to help Anastina and her family.

Donation information, as well as links to news stories about our little Anastina, can be found in our June 13th North Fork News Blog post

2010 Loggers Jamboree ~ July 3rd & 4th

2010-06-28T17:20:00.000-07:00

July 3

Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree, Info: 877-7700, 877-2237

Pro-Am Contest, 11am, Recreation Center, $5 gate fee
Horseshoe Pitching Contest, 12 noon
Grand Parade down North Fork’s Main St, 5pm
BBQ & Princess Coronation at Town Hall, 6pm, $10adults, $5 kids under 12
Woodchoppers Ball & Queen Coronation, Recreation Ctr, 8:30pm, $10 ea, $15 per couple

July 4

Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree, Info: 877-7700, 877-2237

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, NF Town Hall, 7-10:00am

Jamboree Main Logging Events, Recreation Ctr, 12 noon,

Gates open 10am, pre-sale tickets thru July 2nd, $2. At the gate $5., under 12 Free

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Anastina McKee Donation Info

2010-06-13T11:14:00.001-07:00

Baby Anastina ~ 3 weeks old

Click Here for a Story Update from the Sierra Star article published July 1, 2010

Anastina McKee was born 3 months prematurely on May 18, 2010 on the island of Guam. She still weighs under 2 pounds and is 13 inches long. Baby Anastina is fighting for her life with hydrocephalus and a brain infection among other life threatening medical conditions. Money is needed for her urgent and ongoing specialized medical treatment, which is projected to cost $300,000-$400,000. All of her parents’ insurance and personal funds have been used up in the first 3 weeks of the baby’s young life. Her parents, their families & friends have donated money to help little Anastina, but much more is needed. Government financial aid is also desperately needed, but impossible to get on the island of Guam.

If you wish to donate money to help, there are several ways you can donate money directly to baby Anastina’s family to help pay for her medical bills and her medical transport. Special donation accounts have been set up in her name.

1. Direct Check: Made out to Anastina McKee, deliver to Bob McKee at North Fork Hardware or mail to:

Yosemite Bank
Ref: Account 401009337
Attn: Doug Dearing
40061 HWY 49
Oakhurst, Ca. 93644

2. Send donations through PayPal to this special email address: Save.Anastina@gmail.com

3. Cash Donations: Deliver in person to Bob McKee (Grandpa Bob) at North Fork Hardware for a receipt

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
The McKee family of North Fork

For more information about baby Anastina and her situation, please view our June 8th NF News post: North Fork Cares ~ A Baby in Need

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

North Fork Cares ~ A Baby in Need

2010-06-08T22:45:00.000-07:00

Baby Anastina ~ Day 19, weighing 898 grams

Click Here for a Story Update from the Sierra Star article published July 1, 2010

My partner's first grandchild, a girl, Anastina, was born 3 months prematurely this past May 18th in Guam. She urgently needs to be airlifted out of Guam to a higher tech neonatology center than can be found on the island of Guam. There she will receive the proper specialized care that she needs to survive. Her parents have been turned down by two airlines and the US Air Force when they have asked for a special "mercy flight" for the tiny baby. Money is needed for the flight which will cost upwards of $20,000 and also for her urgent and ongoing medical care. Her parents, their families & friends have donated money to help little Anastina, but much more is needed. Government financial aid is also desperately needed, but impossible to get on the island of Guam.

Please watch this news video taped yesterday by our local ABC news station, and pass it along to others. Some of you may have already seen it on last evening's channel 30 ABC news.

North Fork grandfather battles to save his grandchild abc30.com

Also, there is a Facebook group that is open for anyone to join called "Please Help Save My Niece" that gives more info and photos about this tiny baby in need. There is a PayPal fund set up for donations listed there.

Here's the link to the Facebook group. Please check it out and join. If the link doesn't work for some reason, just type the name of the group "Please Help Save My Niece" into the Facebook search box. You can find the group that way.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=127194360640696

Thank you, North Fork. Thank you for being a town that cares.

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee ~ Saturday, June 19th

2010-06-05T18:04:00.000-07:00

Freshly Picked Apricots ~ at the Jubilee!

3rd Annual Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee

Saturday, June 19th, 5-8:30pm

$5 Adult Entry fee ~ Children under 12 FREE

at Mokichi Okada Association's Oasis Garden

5790 N. Indianola Av, Clovis, CA

(east of Clovis Av and north of Shaw)

More info (559) 324-0465

http://www.fruitjubilee.org/

***********************************
Peaches ~ Plums ~ Pluots ~ Nectarines ~ Apricots

Fruit Pastries & Ice Cream Bars

Fruit Tastings - Tours - Workshops - Music - Kids Kraft Korner

Meet your local organic farmers! Taste the fruit!
Buy a delicious pastry or fruit bar!

For more photos and information from past year's Stone Fruit Jubilee click HERE

North Fork Earth Day Fair ~ April 25th

2010-04-15T20:25:00.001-07:00

April Local Events

2010-04-06T21:54:00.000-07:00

Apr 19
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Association Annual Meeting, 6pm, National Forest Ranger District Board Room, 57003 Rd. 225 in North Fork, Info: 877-3952

Apr 24
North Fork Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary Tri-Tip BBQ, 11am-2pm, NF School, Kennedy Hall, $8 adults, $7 pre-sale, $6 seniors, $5 children under 10, Silent Auction, Info: 877-4458, evenings

Apr 24
North Fork Waste Tire Amnesty Day , 10am-1pm, at the old Mill Site, Road 225, Advance Reservations Required, Call: 675-7821

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Town Hall Meeting ~ February 18th

2010-02-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

Town Hall Meeting
Thursday February 18th

6-8pm, NF Town Hall
Supervisor Tom Wheeler & Sheriff John Anderson

Discussion Topics:
*Update on 2009-10 County Budget

*Update on North Fork Projects
- Volunteer Fire Station
- Road 200 Project
-Pedestrian Trail

*General Discussion on District 5 Issues

Info: 662-6050

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

North Fork on Facebook

2010-02-03T21:55:00.001-08:00

Look for North Fork - Exact Center of California group on Facebook.

It is an open group that any Facebook member can join. So far there are 80 members of the group. Good advertising for our small town. Tell your friends and neighbors!

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Citizen of the Year Dinner ~ 1/23/10

2010-01-22T21:33:00.000-08:00

Jan 23
North Fork Citizen of the Year Dinner & Awards

5:30pm Doors Open, 6pm Dinner, 7pm Presentation

Tickets $10 presale, $12 at the door, NF Town Hall,

Presale tickets available for purchase at:
Hair Care Plus, North Fork Hardware, The Buckhorn Saloon

Info: 877-7700

© Copyright 2010 North Fork News

Nov/Dec Local Events

2009-11-01T23:13:00.000-08:00

Nov 6/7
Squirrel Cage Theatre Fall Follies Show, NF Town Hall, 5:30pm Doors Open, 6pm Dinner, 7pm Showtime, Adults $10, 12 & under $5, Family $25, Info: 877-2129 & SCT Website

Dec 5
North Fork Christmas Bazaar, 9am-3pm, NF Town Hall, Over 45 Vendors, Lunch & Dessert available, Info: 877-4554

Dec 5
Squirrel Cage Theatre presents Songs of the Season, 7pm, NF School, Kennedy Hall, Holiday Music, Adults $6, Children (12 & under) $3, Family $15 Info: 877-2129

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

More October Events

2009-10-05T09:29:00.001-07:00

Oct 10/11
17th Annual Harvest Arts & Peace Festival, 10am-4pm, Intermountain Nursery, 30443 N. Auberry Rd, Prather. Crafts, Food & Music. Info: 855-3113

Oct 17
Community Roadside Litter Cleanup, 8am-Noon, Info: 877-2361, 760-1058

Oct 22-24
Seasonal Flu Shots at Raleys Supermarket, 10am-1pm & 2-6pm, $25 each, Raleys Supermarket, 40041 Hwy 49 in Oakhurst

Oct 24
Chili Cook-off & Homemade Pie/Cake Contest, 11am-4pm, NF Town Hall, Chili Tasting $5 adults, $2 ages 6-12yrs, Info: 877-2237, 877-4806

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

September & October Community Events

2009-09-03T16:59:00.000-07:00

Sep 19
Casino Night Fundraiser, for Chawanakee Children's Education Foundation, Old Town in North Fork, Dinner 6pm, Casino Play 7-10pm, Tickets (21 & up) $40 includes dinner, live entertainment & casino script, Presale reserved tables for 8 are $300.,

Call 877-4458 or 877-7790 for Info, Tickets or Table Reservations.

Sep 20
Squirrel Cage Theatre 5th Annual Gathering of the Musicians,

Outdoor Concert, 3-8pm, 31829 Mountain Ln @ Rd 200, North Fork, Bring a chair and Food to share for the Potluck dinner, Info: 877-2129, 877-4195

Sep 23
North Fork Community/Christmas Choir Rehearsals Start, 6-8pm weekly, NF School Kennedy Hall Music Room, Info: Gina 877-3030 & Squirrel Cage Theatre website

Sep 25
North Fork School Car & Boat Show, 4-8pm, NF School parking lot, Silent Auction, Carnival Games, Live Local Music, Tri-Tip BBQ $10 adults/$5 kids, Car/Boat Registration (includes one dinner) $25 before Sep 15th, $30 after the 15th, Proceeds fund school equipment, events & projects for the students, Info: 877-8881, 658-1005

Oct 3
Annual Grizzly Century Bike Ride, 7am Start time at North Fork School, Info: www.grizzlycentury.org

Oct 3
North Fork Fall Festival, Info: 877-4806, 877-8606

Omelet Breakfast, 6-10am, North Fork School, Adults $6, Kids under 12 $5

North Fork Craft Faire, 8am- 4pm, Town Hall Parking Lot, Info: 877-4806

Antique Engine Display, 10am-4pm, Town Hall Lower Parking Lot

NF Women's Club Community Yard Sale, 8am-4pm, Info: 877-4806

NF History Group Display, 10am-4pm, Scout Building by Town Hall

NF Arts Council Fine Arts Show, 10am-6pm, Town Hall

US Forest Service Employees Association Dinner, 2-7pm, Town Hall

Sierra Mono Museum, Rd 225 & 228, Info: 877-2115

August & September Events

2009-07-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

Aug 1 & 2
Sierra Mono Museum 39th Annual Indian Fair Days & Pow Wow, NF Recreation Center, Info: 877-2115 and Museum Website

Aug 8
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway High Country Work Day, 8am-5pm, Details & Carpool Info: 877-3952, 683-6658

Aug 14-16
10th Annual Jammin' Tree Didgeridoo Music Festival, NF Recreation Ctr, Info: http://www.jtdidgefest.com/

Aug 28-30

Fresno Greek Festival, St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Fresno, Greek food & pastries, music & dancing, merchant bazaar, Admission Fri/Sat night $5, Info: Fresno Greek Festival Website and Photos from Greek Fest 2008

Jun-Sep (Wed)
Farmers Market at Bass Lake, 4-7pm every Wednesday, Pines Village, Bass Lake, Info: Farmers Market and NF News Blog 2008 Photos

Sep 19
Casino Night Fundraiser, for Chawanakee Children's Education Foundation, Old Town in North Fork, Dinner 6pm, Casino Play 7-10pm, Tickets (21 & up) $40 includes dinner, live entertainment & casino script, Presale reserved tables for 8 are $300., Call 877-4458 or 877-7790 for Info, Tickets or Table Reservations.

Sep 20
Squirrel Cage Theatre Annual Gathering of the Musicians, Info: 877-2129

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

NF Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Auction

2009-07-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

Sunny Marigolds for Silent Auction

North Fork Chamber of Commerce

Annual Dinner/Auction Fundraiser

Saturday, July 25th 2009 5:30pm at Town Hall

Saturday evening July 25th, The North Fork Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual fundraiser Dinner and Auction at the Town Hall. We have some fabulous items up for auction. Be prepared for a memorable evening of classy food and fun. Dinner is your choice of Tri Tip, Turkey or a delicious Vegetarian selection.

Pre-Sale Tickets are $13.00 each
(a limited number of tickets will be available for sale at the door, $15.00 each)

Buy your Tickets:

On Friday July 24th
in front of the NF Post Office

or any time during store hours at

North Fork Hardware
33029 Main Street

(559) 877-2332

See the North Fork Chamber Website for more information on this year's Dinner/Auction,

and click HERE to read an article about last year's 2008 Dinner/Auction.

Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee

2009-06-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

Fresh Fruit!

2nd Annual Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee

Saturday, June 20th, 5-8:30pm

$5 Adult Entry fee ~ Children under 12 FREE

at Mokichi Okada Association's Oasis Garden
5790 N. Indianola Av, Clovis, CA
(east of Clovis Av and north of Shaw)

More info (559) 324-0465

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

Peaches ~ Plums ~ Pluots ~ Nectarines ~ Apricots
Fruit Pastries & Ice Cream Bars

Fruit Tastings - Tours - Workshops - Music - Kids Kraft Korner

Meet your local organic farmers! Taste the fruit!
Buy a delicious pastry or fruit bar!

For more photos and information from last year's Stone Fruit Jubilee click HERE

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

June & July Community Events

2009-06-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

Main Street, North Fork

Jun 10
Special NF Chamber Meeting - Dinner/Auction Work Session, 5:30pm, at the NFCoC office (inside American Claims Service) on Main St, All Members & Volunteers welcome! Call Steve 877-3088 for more info

Jun 14

NF Recreation Center Clean-Up Day, 8am at the Rec Center, Info: 877-2237

Jun 14

Art in the Garden Tour, 1-5pm, Cascadel Heights Dr, North Fork, proceeds benefit North Fork Library, Info: 877-2387

Jun 20
Organic Stone Fruit Jubilee, 5-8:30pm, Mokichi Okada Assoc Oasis Garden, 5790 N. Indianola Av, Clovis, Adults $5, Kids under 12 FREE, Info: 324-0465

July 4
50th Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree
Info: 877-7700, 877-2355, 877-2237

Pro-Am Contest, 11am, Recreation Center, Adults $4 at gate, under 12 Free
Horseshoe Pitching Contest, 12 noon
Grand Parade down North Fork’s Main St, 5pm
BBQ at Town Hall, 6pm, $8 adults, $5 kids under 12
Woodchoppers Ball & Queen Coronation, Recreation Ctr, 8:30pm, $8 ea, $15 per couple

July 5

50th Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree
Info: 877-7700, 877-2355, 877-2237

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, NF Town Hall, 7-10am
Jamboree Main Logging Events, Recreation Ctr, 12 noon, Gates open 10am, presale tickets thru July 3rd $2.00, $5.00 at gate, under 12 Free

July 25

North Fork Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Auction Fundraiser, NF Town Hall, Doors open 5:30pm, Dinner 6pm, Presale tickets $13.00
Info: 877-2410, 877-3088, 877-2332, Dinner/Auction Event Flyer

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

April & May Local Events

2009-04-10T19:34:00.000-07:00

Wildflowers South of North Fork near Auberry

Apr 13
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway Association Annual Meeting & Election, 6pm, National Forest Ranger District Board Room, North Fork, all members and guests welcome, Refreshments will be served, Bring your favorite Scenic Byway photos to share, Info: 877-3952 & SVSBA Website

Apr 18
Squirrel Cage Theatre Spring Show, NF Town Hall, Doors open 5:30pm, Dinner 6pm, Show 7pm, $10 Adults, $5 under 12, $25 Family, Info: 877-2129

Apr 19
North Fork Earth Day Celebration, 9am-4pm, North Fork School & the Tribal Community Center, displays, events, art & music

Apr 25
Bass Lake Annual Spring Clean, Meet at Recreation Point, 9am, Bags/Gloves & Refreshments provided, Info: 683-3353

Apr 25
Annual Tri Tip BBQ, NF Volunteer Fire Dept Auxiliary, 11am-2pm at North Fork School, Kennedy Hall, Tickets: Adults $7 presale/$8 at the door, Under 10 or over 65 $5, Silent Auction & Prize Drawings

May 1
Relay for Life Pasta & Bunco Night, 5:30pm NF Town Hall, Info: 877-3017

May 8/9
Chawanakee Academy Drama Club Mini Melodrama & Murder Mystery, 5:30pm Dinner, 6:30pm Shows, NF Town Hall, $6 adults, $3 children 12 and under, Info: 676-4181

May 12
Squirrel Cage Theatre Poetry Reading at the Library, North Fork Library, FREE, 6:30pm Guitar Music, 7pm Poetry Reading & Open Mic Session. The new North Fork Poetry Club is featured, Info: 877-2129

May 30
Roadside Litter Clean Up, 8am-Noon, Pick up bags and safety equipment at: North Fork Post Office, Bass Fork Minit Mart, Oakhurst Library parking lot, Coarsegold Teepee, Village Corner Store in Bass Lake Pines Village, Free tree seedlings will be given to all participants. Info: 877-3424, 760-1058, 877-2361

May 30
Bunco Scholarship Fundraiser, NF Women's Club, Noon - 4pm, NF Town Hall, $10 presale, $12 at door, Table Reservations & Info Call: 877-4806

© Copyright 2009 North Fork News

Winter in North Fork

2009-03-15T21:55:00.001-07:00

Remember that Christmas Tree from the last blog post?

Well now that the weather is warming up a bit and Spring is fast approaching, I thought it would be a good time to share some of our winter weather photos with you. These were all taken in North Fork during the snow fall of February 12-14th. On Friday February 13th alone, we experienced an unusually large amount of snow falling in a very short period of time. About 1 foot of snow fell in just 3 hours at my home's elevation of 3100 ft. I am sure that the higher elevations got even more than that.

Here are a few scenes of Winter in North Fork:

First some views of downtown North Fork on Main Street. Elevation approximately 2600 ft.

Just as the snow is beginning to stick to the street downtown

Coming down a little harder now ~ Buckhorn Saloon lights

The snow view of Sierra Video from North Fork Hardware

Near the downtown area but up just a little higher in elevation is this view that looks like powdered sugar sprinkled over all the trees in the valley.

View looking toward Cascadel and Whiskey Ridge area

Steep and Deep Driveway

A little higher we go now to about 3000 ft elevation. Just look at the snow piled up on that deck railing!

Deck Covered in Snow ~ Another Christmas Tree too

Nature is always beautiful here in the mountain area, but when it snows it can be incredible.

Colorful Little Daffodils Braving the Snow and Ice

Blue Sky Peaking Through the Clouds

Sun Glistening on the Snow Covered Evergreens

More Sun Breaking through the Clouds onto the Snow Covered Scene

We usually do get a few snow days here in North Fork every winter. Usually only a few inches of snowfall that melts in a day or two. Just enough to be beautiful and keep life interesting. Sometimes, however, we can get quite a bit of snow that sticks around for a week or more. These next two photos show how much and how fast we can get snow on occasion.

My driveway at 8:30am just as it is beginning to snow

Same driveway view approximately 3 hours later! One foot in 3 hours!

Winter in the mountains can be a beautiful adventure. Some days it pays to just stay home and sit by the warm fire in the good old wood stove. There was no way I was going to drive my car out of there anyway.

Wood stove heat warms the house and the heart

Stay warm for the rest of the winter. Spring arrives officially 5 days from now on March 20th. I wonder if Mother Nature reads the calendar.

Boy Scout Christmas Trees

2008-12-15T22:45:00.001-08:00

If you celebrate Christmas, it's time to get your Christmas tree up and decorated.

If you want a real as opposed to artificial pine tree, I suggest you shop locally for your tree at the North Fork Boy Scout Christmas tree sale located right here in downtown North Fork.

The Boy Scout tree sale is located in the North Fork Library parking lot all day on the weekends and after school lets out in the afternoons during the week. The lot opens for the season on the first Saturday in December.

Library Parking Lot Entrance

These trees are very fresh so they last a long time. They are trees that are cut in the process of thinning to maintain healthy forest growing conditions. So when we buy these Christmas trees, not only are we getting a fresh locally grown product and are helping to support the Boy Scouts, but we are also putting trees that would be cut anyway to good use instead of cutting a tree grown specifically as a commercial Christmas tree.

They have quite a selection of trees in all different shapes and sizes:

Since these are trees that grow naturally in the forest, they each have their unique natural personality. They are not pruned and manicured to all look the same. They are all beautifully different. They fit right in with the spirit of our small town North Fork community. Unique and natural.

They are also inexpensive. A 6 foot tree can be purchased for only $15.

So come on down to the library parking lot and select your favorite tree from the many sizes and varieties available.

Here's a nice one...

After you make your selection, the crew of Christmas Tree Elves is on hand to measure your tree and help you take it to your truck or car. Here they stand at the ready:

Christmas Tree Elves ~ some a bit camera shy...

After tree selection and measurement are complete, this nice man will gladly accept your money and give you a receipt:

Then you can load the tree, or trees, into your vehicle and drive home happily anticipating the decorating process.

We did just that a couple of Sundays ago. We each bought a tree, loaded all 3 of them into our truck and drove home merrily.

The visit to our local Christmas tree lot was pleasant, easy and fun. No long drives, no traffic, no huge crowds. And we felt good knowing we were shopping locally, supporting our local Boy Scouts and also helping to maintain the health of our precious forests.

You really should go check them out and buy a tree!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

NF Market Logging Heritage Mural

2008-11-23T22:04:00.000-08:00

Logging Heritage Mural on NF Market

This is a very belated posting with only "so-so" photos about the beautiful mural that was painted on the side wall of our North Fork Supermarket this past summer. I've seen better photos of this mural around, but I snapped the one above just to give you the idea of what it looks like from a distance. Hopefully my inadequate photography will encourage you to go down to NF Market and take a look at the mural in person. The photo really does not do it justice.

The mural project was the vision and under the direction of our own "Joan of Art". She and many, many community members worked tirelessly to complete this mural by the 4th of July holiday and Logger's Jamboree weekend.

Not only were many local artists involved, but also other members of the community who donated supplies and equipment.

Toward the left side of the mural picture there is a "plaque" dedicating this mural to "all who worked in the lumber mill" for the 50 years it was in operation:

Dedication Plaque ~ Click the photo to enlarge it

All along the bottom of the mural are trees that were painted by North Fork folks and each tree is labeled with the artist's name or family name. This is such a creative idea to get more people involved! I love it. Here is a small portion of the tree line close up:

Named Trees

I think the cutest part of the whole mural is how they handled the existing "utility cover box" that juts out from the wall right in the middle of the mural space. You can see it with its lid open in the photo at the top of this post. Here's a close up view showing that the artist turned the ugly utility box into their rendition of a forest fire lookout tower. I think that is just totally creative.

Barbara's Lookout "Tower"

So please forgive my so-so photos and my belated and abbreviated version of this mural's story, and go out there and view the mural for yourself. Remember to stop into North Fork Market and tell them how much you like the mural on their side wall.

It is my understanding that more community murals are in the works. Maybe you will be part of the next town mural project.

Squirrel Cage Theatre Fall Show ~ Nov 14 & 15

2008-11-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

"Showdown at the Rainbow Ranch"

From the Squirrel Cage Theatre website:

2008 FALL SHOW: Showdown at the Rainbow Ranch
An original musical melodrama by local author/composer Joan LeGro Bushnell and her partner Charles H. Randall.

Showdown at the Rainbow Ranch, set in the old west of 1898, combines action with romance when dashing young Matthew Merriweather, Wild West Show hero falls head over spurs in love with spirited young Rainbow Heatherton, heir to the Rainbow Ranch. Woven throughout a series of mysterious disappearances and hidden identities are Bushnell’s toe tapping tunes and haunting countermelodies.

If you enjoyed last year’s Shake Up at Sugarpine, you’ll want to hop on board for Showdown at the Rainbow Ranch!

Friday/Saturday, November 7/8,14/15 - Showdown at the Rainbow Ranch, North Fork Town Hall , Doors open 5:30pm, Dinner 6-7pm, Show 7pm. Adults $10, Children under 12 $5, Family $25

Please call to reserve seats for parties of 10 or more, Info: 877-2129
~~~~~~~~~~~~

We attended the show this past Saturday night, November 8th and sat with family and friends at a reserved "table for 10" right up front. The view was wonderful. The food that night was a spicy (but not too spicy) homemade chili with beans, cornbread & salad. Desserts were available for $1. Wonderful pies, cakes and cheesecakes (my favorite!). A full bar was ready to serve you the spirit or soft drink of your choice. The usual coffee and tea were included with the price of dinner.

The music and acting were superb. The melodrama was interesting and funny. The audience was encouraged to boo, hiss, cheer and applaud in all the right places.

The play included some creative special effects such as the romantic heart-shaped red spotlight during a love song between the play's two young lovers.

"Rainbow" & "Matt" sing their love to each other

In addition to the play, we were treated to several other creative performances.

To warm up the audience, the show's emcee, Dave, and his singing partner for the evening, Cassidy, a young woman with a beautiful & clear voice, lead us in song.

Dave and Cassidy sing

Frank, a local masterful story teller, kept us hanging on every word as he told a suspenseful "tall tale" about a guy who just wanted to go fishing, but instead ended up having a great adventure that day.

A returning local favorite was the performance by The Whistlers as shown below:

The Dancing Whistlers ~ a sight to behold!

If you haven't yet seen this year's Fall Show you still have a chance to attend. It is playing next Friday and Saturday evenings, November 14th & 15th at Town Hall. Doors open at 5:30.

See the Squirrel Cage Website for more info or call 877-2129. Don't miss it!

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

North Fork Fall Festival ~ October 4, 2008

2008-10-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

Rainy Day Festival Booths

The North Fork Fall Festival happens yearly on the first Saturday in October. It occurs on the same day as the Grizzly Century Bike Ride here in our mountain community. Fall Festival activities include the Women's Club Crafts Fair & Yard Sale, the Fine Arts Show, the Forest Service Employees Association Dinner, the Sierra Mono Museum open house, the History Group display and the Antique Engine display.

This year the weather did not cooperate with us, as it poured down rain most of the day, so many of these usual events did not take place. However, due to the hearty spirit of the Women's Club and a few of the planned vendors, the Crafts Fair & Yard Sale did go on as scheduled.

Attendence was very low. Only 4 of the 32 signed up booth vendors decided to brave the rain and mud to set up their tents. The customer crowds were also thin this year compared to years past.

I myself decided not to set up my booth in the rain, but I did stay awhile to shop and take a few photos to share with you on this NF News Blog.

Here are a few scenes from the 2008 North Fork Fall Festival Crafts Fair:

Women's Club Booth

Handmade hats, gloves, potholders etc

Other useful handmade items for sale

Women's Club Nut Breads ~ looked delicious

More delicous baked goods for sale ~ popcorn too!

Daffodil Bulb Gift Packs ~ offered by the Women's Club

The Indian Taco booth was more popular than this photo shows

Three yard sale vendors braved the rain, cold and mud to set up and sell their wares:

Largest Yard Sale tent ~ nice selection of household goods

The vendor shown in the above photo had two big trucks and a trailer to haul in all of their items.

A smaller selection of items, but still just as hearty!

Some unique items could be found at this yard sale booth. See photo below:

Beautiful gourd art, antique iron and useful apple peeler

It was a smaller turnout than usual due to the rainy cold day, but still some bargains could be found. Everyone had fun shopping and visiting. A nice way to spend a rainy day in a quaint setting.

Remember

2008-09-11T10:55:00.001-07:00

About this Photo

Today is the 7th anniversary of 9/11.

Remember.....and work for peace.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Fresno Greek Festival ~ August 22, 2008

2008-09-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Pleasant Patio Dining

Here a few photos from the annual Greek Festival held on the grounds of the St. George Greek Orthodox Church in the nearby city of Fresno.

There were drinks available in the form of beer, mixed drinks and soft drinks. Also Greek and regular coffee to have with your dessert.

Beer & Wine Booth

Fancy Bar Booth featuring Greek Ouzo

View of the crowd and booths from the fancy bar area

In the photo below you can see where you can visit when you drink too much and nature calls. The festival organizers went all out for their guest's comfort. This is the first time I have seen actual "his" and "hers" porta potties at a local event. The blue ones were for men to use, the tan colored ones were for women.

Potter's Potties ~ both men's and women's

Along with the drinks there was delicious food available. You could buy the complete dinner plate for $15 or you could purchase items a la carte. Here's a photo of the dinner line inside the multi purpose room of the church.

Traditional Greek dishes attracted a crowd of hungry people

Outside you could buy smaller plates of food or single items at the many food booths on the grounds. A new item this year was Greek Feta Fries.

Food Booths

Food Booth Signs

There were many places to sit and dine in comfort. They had chairs and tables available both in the front of the festival as shown below on the patio, and also in the back by the musicians and the dancers.

Front Patio Dining Area

There were many Greek desserts to indulge in after our dinner. Below you see the traditional Greek cookies called Koulourakia, but we also sampled some Baklava and Loukomades, both dripping with honey sweetness.

There was shopping! Lots of goods from Greece and also things made here in the US by Greeks who live here.

Vendor Booths

Beautiful & Functional Ceramic Art

Greek Religious Icons & Monastery Honey for sale

Carefully working the register

Fancy Jewelry and Baubles

Greek Fisherman's Cap & World's Greatest "Grandpa" Cap

The Greek Nuns had many wonderful handmade products for sale. Wonderful multi grain fresh breads and jams. They had hand dipped beeswax candles, lovely soaps, oils and lotions. Visiting with the nuns was very pleasant and informative.

Handmade Products

Greek music both traditional and modern blared from the large speakers in the dancing area in back of the festival. Dressed in traditional Greek garb, Kopi Sotiropulos, weatherman for channel 26 in Fresno was m/c and general entertainer. Here he is instructing the crowd in Greek dancing. He's the one in the white skirt.

Go Kopi!

Dancers in fancy costumes entertained us with their intricate footwork.

Costumed Dancers in a circle

We had a wonderful time and will be back next year!

The Fresno Greek Festival is held in August of each year. For more information about it please visit the Fresno GreekFest Website.

North Fork Mountain Classic Car Show ~ August 9th

2008-08-18T23:07:00.000-07:00

A Real Beauty!

Some scenes from the 2008 North Fork Mountain Classic Car Show and pancake breakfast held at the North Fork Recreation Center.

First the outdoor breakfast on a nice sunny Saturday morning:

Expert Pancake Cooks

More Delicious Pancakes

Organized Breakfast Crew

Breakfast Seating

Then the classic vehicles of many types:

Classic Motorcycles

More Classic Bikes

Flashy Boats

With Original Names, or not...

Many, many cars & trucks:

A pleasant morning spent outdoors.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Curtis Kirk Memorial Gathering

2008-08-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

Above graphic borrowed from The Buckhorn Saloon website

Our friend, fellow business owner and active community member, Curtis Kirk, passed away 2 weeks ago on August 1st. His life and business partner of 25 years, Alice, is a strong and capable woman and she is holding up well as far as we have heard, but I am sure she could use, and would greatly appreciate the support of our small town community at this difficult time in her life.

Alice & Curtis in happier times ~
photo adapted from the Buckhorn Saloon website

Curtis’s heart was bigger than the sky, and we will miss being welcomed at the Buckhorn by the tall lanky man with the cowboy hat. Always a smile on his face. Curtis was a generous and caring citizen of our little town of North Fork. We will miss him. He will always be a part of North Fork and the Buckhorn.

Our hearts are with you Alice. Your community is here for you.

Alice is holding a memorial potluck for Curtis on Saturday August 23rd starting at Noon. For more information about this or The Buckhorn Saloon in general, please visit The Buckhorn Saloon Website.

Bass Lake Farmers Market ~ Wednesday Evenings

2008-07-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Booths at Bass Lake Farmers Market

This summer on Wednesday evenings through mid-September, there will be a farmers market happening at the Pines Village in Bass Lake. The booths are located in front of Good Ol' Daze. Admission is free for visitors.

We went to check it out one Wednesday evening in June and found just a handful of booths, but many visitors and a lot of fresh produce and flowers for sale. Everyone looked like they were having a great time.

Here are some scenes from the Bass Lake Farmers Market:

Lettuce and Greens for Sale

Organically Grown Flowers

Flowers from North Fork's "Three Springs Flower Garden"

Musical Entertainment

Crowd around the Vegetable Booth

Busy Shoppers ~ Lots of Fresh Veggies

Fresh Summer Squash & Peppers ~ cute young girl

Green Onions & Basil ~ fresh herbs piled high

Fresh Chard in many colors, Collards, Kale & Carrots

A nice and healthy way to spend an evening outdoors!

First Annual Stone Fruit Festival in Clovis

2008-07-11T22:52:00.000-07:00

Stone Fruit Festival Orchard Setting

Comfortable Paths and Benches were available

Way back last month the day after the Summer Solstice, we attended the first annual Organic Stone Fruit Festival/Jubilee held in Clovis at the Mokichi Okada Association orchards. We learned of it by invitation and advertisement from Kern Family Farm, our own local organic farmers right here in North Fork. They were there running the children's activity booth.

Hansel Kern and Friends

Creating Pine Cone Bird Feeders at the Kids Booth

Finished Pine Cone Bird Feeders

Cute Bunnies, also at the Kids Booth

At the festival there were about a dozen local organic stone fruit farmers represented. Each had a table and tent canopy nestled amongst the orchard trees and along a nice walking path. Our modest entry fee of $5 allowed us to sample fruit (peaches, plums, nectarines, pluots and apricots) from each farm. Most farmers also had their fruit for sale at the big fruit stand in the front of the event.

Tasting Booths & Tasters

My favorite Sweet & Juicy Peaches

More Tasters Wait Their Turn

We tasted and sampled until we were almost completely full! We then each purchased a bag of organic fruit to take home. All the fruit was priced at $3/lb.

The Fruit Stand

Beautiful Apricots

There were delicious flaky pastries and sweet & tangy paletas (Mexican popsicles) for sale both made from the same organic fruit. The pastries were provided by La Boulangerie de France. The paletas were made by La Reina de Michoacan. We ate some of each even after filling up on all of that fresh fruit. The peach pastry and the plum paleta that I personally snarfed down, were magnificent!

Flaky, Juicy Peach Pastries ~Don't they look good?

Peach, Apricot, Nectarine and Plum Pastries

It was a fun and interesting event. I look forward to attending again next year.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Our Western Wild Horses are in Danger

2008-07-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

I read this CNN News Blurb this morning and that lead me to the Let 'em Run website and the video you see above by Lacy J. Dalton, Willie Nelson and Snoop Dogg.

The idea that our government would purposely kill healthy beautiful wild horses just to save pasture land for cattle is stupid and saddens me greatly. Our wild horses are part of our western pioneering heritage and belong wild and free on the land. I don't have money or the means to save the horses myself, so I am doing what I can to share their story with as many people as possible. If you can adopt a horse or help them in any way, please do it, and do it soon. Thank you from me and the horses.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Upcoming July Events

2008-06-29T23:17:00.000-07:00

Logging Truck in Main Street Parade ~ 2007

July 4
Bass Lake Annual Fireworks Show, dusk at Bass Lake, Info: 642-3676

July 5
49th Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree, Info: 877-2355, 877-7700

Pro-Am Contest, 11am, Recreation Center, $4 gate fee

Horseshoe Pitching Contest, 12 noon

Grand Parade down North Fork’s Main St, 5pm

BBQ at Town Hall, 6pm, $8 adults, $5 kids under 12

Woodchoppers Ball & Queen Coronation, Recreation Ctr, 8:30pm, $8 ea, $15 per couple

July 6
49th Annual Mid-Sierra Loggers Jamboree, Info: 877-2355, 877-7700

Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, NF Town Hall, 7-10:30am

Jamboree Main Logging Events, Recreation Ctr, 12 noon, Gates open 10am, tickets pre-sale $3, at the gate $6, kids under 12 Free

July 10
NF Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting, 7am, The Buckhorn Saloon, Main St, NF, Info:877-2410, 877-3088

Did you feel it?

2008-06-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

Earthquake Epicenter at "Tom's Place" near Mammoth Lakes, CA
Click on the photo to enlarge it & Click HERE to follow this map link

Did you feel the earthquake that shook North Fork this morning at about 7:45 am? It was a mild one, only magnitude 4.3 on the Richter scale, but still quite noticeable here in the Mountain Area. The epicenter was located at "Tom's Place" near Mammoth Lakes. The map above shows the regions (by zip code) that reported having felt the shaking.

I felt two distinct quick shakes and rattles in the quiet of my home here at about 3000 ft elevation. Each shake only lasted about 3 seconds. Not the long scary rolling kind of feeling that I had experienced so many times when living in Southern California or the Bay Area. Nothing fell off of my bookshelves. The lamps did not sway. The animals seemed unconcerned. Even so, I am reminded that Mother Nature is still very powerful and more than occasionally lets us know she is there.

More quake info can be found at THIS LINK.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

New Life In North Fork - Continued

2008-06-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

The other day I heard the loudest commotion in front of my store. Two sparrows up in the redbud tree were chirping excitedly back and forth, obviously announcing something very special was happening.

Knowing how skiddish these tiny birds can be, I practically walked on my tip toes with my camera to check out what all the excitement was about.

As reported in previous postings, the returning sparrows had been building a nest just under the old shake overhang in front of my store. I have been looking daily to see if any new life was appearing, but for weeks it has been rather quiet.

But not today, Dad sparrow was obviously very proud, announcing to the world about the special new life that had just occurred.

Mom sparrow was settled in the safety of the red bud tree, she was excited to, and there was a non-stop excited dialog of chirping going on between the two parents.

As I quietly observed nature unfolding right in front of me, Dad sparrow would occasionally fly off, disappear for a few minutes, and then return with exotic bird yummies in his beak. Obviously, new sparrow babies had just hatched just hours ago, and were impatient and very hungry waiting for Dad.

And, if you look very closely in the nest under the old weather shake shingle, you can see a tiny smiling beak and two birdie eyes. I believe I saw at least three tiny brothers or sisters later.

Hi Mom & Dad, what's for dinner?

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Some Scenes from the June 7th Sidewalk Festival

2008-06-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

Booths Line Main Street

More Booths

Women's Club Flea Market ~ great bargains!

Youth Jazz Band Entertains Us

Arts Council Tree Shirt Painting ~ Artsy Activities

Rocks and Crystals

Sauces, Marinades, Dried Fruits etc

Delectible Olives, Garlic & Fruit Jams

Frogs, Salamanders & Snakes!

Upcoming June Events

2008-05-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

Sidewalk Festival on Main St, North Fork ~ 2006

Jun 1
Squirrel Cage Theatre Annual Meeting & Picnic, 2pm, Thrapp's home, (call for directions), hot dogs, burgers & drinks, bring a side dish, RSVP 841-6229

Jun 7
8th Annual NF Sidewalk Festival, 10am-4pm, Main St, North Fork, art, food, music, vendor booths

Jun 14
Sierra Vista National Scenic Byway Association Tour, meet 8am Pines Village upper parking lot, Info: 977-1334, 877-3952

Jun 28
Sierra Vista National Scenic Byway Work Day, Trail & Camp Clean up in the high country, 8am-5pm, Details & Carpool Info: 977-1334, 877-3952, 683-6658

About North Fork News Blog

2008-05-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Rainy Day in the Forest

Just a reminder for our newer readers or for those that are new to blogging in general, that this is a personal blog written by 3 individuals, is not sponsored or funded by any community organization, and that has story topics of our own interest and sometimes local community interest.

This foundation was laid out in our very first post on March 1, 2008 and is also stated in our overall blog description in the header at the top of every page, "Unsubstantiated news, happenings & events, with maybe a little gossip and a few opinions thrown in for entertainment, about our beautifully rural small town community of North Fork, California."

Basically, we write about whatever interests us at the moment.

Each blog post has topic labels attached to it that are reflected in the Blog Post Topics list in the right sidebar on each page. Clicking a topic label will bring up all those posts with that topic included, conveniently grouped for your reading pleasure.

Also you should know that only the 7 most recent blog posts are shown in full on the front page. To see and read older posts, you must go to the lower right sidebar, click on the arrow for the month you want, and then click the individual post titles to bring those posts up on the screen.

Thanks for visiting!

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T13:42:00.001-07:00

About this photo

Today is Memorial Day.

Various events are scheduled for today all across our country. From solumn remembrance ceremonies conducted in cemetaries, to fun family cookouts in the local park or our own backyard.

Today is a day to remember and honor those loved ones who are no longer with us in body, even though they are still with us in spirit. Take a moment of silence sometime today to remember those dear to you who touched your heart. Remember those who died fighting a war, in an accident, from a disease or by natural causes. All of our loved ones served to make us better people in their own way. Their spirit deserves to be remembered.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Memorial Day Weekend/Week Local Events

2008-05-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hardware Bob & Joggin Jack on Lewis Creek Trail ~ 2005

May 24
Sierra Mono Museum Spring Open House, 4-6pm, 33103 Rd 228, North Fork, $5 donation, raffle & snacks, Info: 877-2115

May 24-26
Oakhurst Mountain Peddlers Home & Garden Show, Rd 426 & Sierra Way, Oakhurst, Free Admission, Info: 683-7766

May 26
Veterans Ceremony at NF Cemetary, 1pm, gathering at the Memorial Wall at Gas N Stuff following cemetary ceremony, Info: 877-3017

May 30
Jazz on the Lake, every Friday through Aug 29th, 6:30-8:30pm, Pines Resort, Bass Lake

May 31
Logger's Jamboree Queen Contestants Fashion Show/Luncheon, 1pm at NF Town Hall, $10 includes lunch & show, Info: 841-8488

Recent arrival at an intersection near you!

2008-05-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

New Signpost at intersection of Rd 274 & 225

Over two years of collaboration and development between the North Fork Chamber of Commerce, Ponderosa Telephone Co, the Sierra Mono Museum, the Grizzly Century Bike Ride committee and the USFS produced this beautiful directional signpost that is a true work of art for our community.

The 14 foot tall statue is carved from a huge ponderosa pine log by master carver Giovanni Dalpogetto from the Coarsegold Carving Station. The original design was created by Lynne Wells of L&E Engraving. It depicts a majestic eagle, a Native American woman holding a gathering basket with a coyote standing next to her. All are symbols of our community's cultural roots.

Hanging from the "tree limbs" are signs showing the direction of local points of interest.

The signpost was installed at the intersection of Roads 274 and 225 in North Fork this past Monday May 12th. It was a true team effort!

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

NFCoC Annual Dinner/Auction Fundraiser

2008-05-12T21:11:00.000-07:00

Auctioneer Tom Wheeler in action

On April 19th 2008, the doors opened at the North Fork Town Hall promptly at 5:30 pm. Over 100 eager and hungry people, with $18 advance tickets in their hands, poured through the doors to experience the North Fork Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Auction. This fun and elegant event is the chamber’s largest fundraiser of the entire year. Practically all of the proceeds are used in support of the chamber’s town restoration program.

Evidence of the chamber’s contribution to town restoration can be seen throughout the community, sidewalks in the main commercial district, public trash receptacles, street lighting, and a newly upgraded information bulletin board located at the Crazy Y garden. New cement sidewalk approaches to the Information Bulletin Board and a lighting system were completed thanks to a generous donation from Frank Wyle, and the volunteer services of Hansel Kern, Zak Zakovski and several local youths. Frank Carpenter, owner of Carpenter Electric Co., offered his talents to install a lighting system that will make the information board visible at night.
Further enhancements are planned for the Main Street corridor and include signage for local services and attractions, and visitor Kiosks on the highway arteries to and from North Fork.

The Town Hall was decorated elegantly for a classy sit down dinner of superb prime rib, chicken, or a delicious vegetarian dish with all of the trimmings catered by Curtis Kirk of the Buckhorn Saloon. The efficient young servers were from the Destination Imagination students of Yosemite High School. Attractive candle & flower centerpieces adorned the dinner tables.

Dinner table service provided by YHS Destination Imagination

The dinner/auction attendees were served with garden salad, the main dish of their choice and delicious chocolate cake desserts in less than 30 minutes. Liquid refreshments were available, provided by the North Fork Squirrel Cage Theatre bar crew. Dinner music played by the Gene Larry Band added to the elegant ambiance of the evening.

From all accounts, the dinner by itself was a spectacular success, everyone commented about the delicious food, what a wonderful time they had visiting with all their friends, and not one person went home hungry.

Guests explore the silent auction table

Marigolds for silent auction

During dinner, attendees were browsing the silent auction tables anxiously writing their bids down for the various valuable gift certificates contributed by local mountain area shops, services, hotels & restaurants. A sampling of these includes Sierra Video, Raley's Supermarket, Sierra Lanes, Crab Cakes, Mountain House, and several service oriented gift certificates from local handymen, plumbers, locksmiths, and beauty salons. Other attractive items included hand painted art, gift baskets of bath & body products, model cars, bottles of wine, two cases of motor oil, sweatshirts & hats, and our now traditional flat of flowers from Western Sierra Nursery, marigolds this year instead of pansies. There were several $100 savings bonds donated by the local banks including Yosemite Bank, United Security Bank and Central Valley Community Bank. Bidding became very aggressive as Steve Cook, chamber president and the emcee for the event, announced that the bid cut off time was soon approaching.

Gift Baskets, Ceramic Pig and other Live Auction items

Live auction items were displayed prominently at the front of the stage for preview, and included a four day cruise to Baja from Cruise Adventures, three cases of CFL light fixtures and bulbs donated by North Fork Hardware, a beautiful handmade quilt by Muriel Lavelle, two original watercolor paintings by Phyllis Overstreet, a beautiful gift basket from Hair Care Plus, a River Creek golf membership from The Buckhorn Saloon, and of course the traditional ceramic pig crafted by local artisan Chris Stanley. The Pines Chalet and the Shilo Inn each donated a one night stay. Two night stays were donated by Lyn Mar Pond Guest Ranch and the North Fork Rancheria (for Sunset Station).

Tom Wheeler was again our fabulous and entertaining auctioneer as he helped make this 2008 auction a successful fundraiser for the chamber. His assistant, Steve Cook, gave us his version of Vanna White, which helped raise over $4000 by encouraging generous and active bids.

Many behind the scenes individuals help organize and put on an event of this magnitude. Thanks go out to everyone on the dinner/auction committee, including all of the chamber board directors and officers, for their contribution of contacting donors, collecting donations, organizing paperwork to manage the auctions, selling tickets and Town Hall set up and cleanup on the event day itself. Thanks also go out to all of our generous donors. Over 100 items were donated from North Fork, Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Oakhurst and Fresno businesses, as well as individuals throughout the community. All in all a fabulous evening of entertainment and dining pleasure.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

New Life In North Fork......Continued

2008-04-25T15:28:00.000-07:00

The weather and Springtime has not been cooperating at all this year. It has been miserably cold and unpredictable for us humans for weeks, but still our resident returning sparrows have braved the weather, and have been very busy transporting nest building materials to the nest site. Look closely and you can see two long wing feathers as Mom is tidying up the nesting area.

This year the neighbors and I decided to help out our industrious sparrows, note the mound of nest building material consisting of lint, tiny sticks, fluff, and, string hanging from the red bud tree.

At first the wary sparrows were more cautious than thankful for the scary cocoon looking mound of nest material as it tumbled and twisted in the wind. The sparrows soon discovered, however, that the odd looking cocoon was a much easier way to obtain building materials than darting all over town.

As attested by Dad sparrows mouth full of fluff, our offered up cocoon appears to be a very successful helpful hand.

Here is Father sparrow on the constant look out for danger as Mom is arranging the nest to suit her fancy.

Even Moms need to take a rest occasionally..............

Stay tuned for more reports on our returning sparrow family.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

NFCoC Annual Dinner/Auction Fundraiser

2008-04-17T21:04:00.001-07:00

Tom Wheeler, Auctioneer

North Fork Chamber of Commerce
Annual Dinner/Auction

Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:30pm at Town Hall

Saturday evening April 19th , The North Fork Chamber of Commerce is hosting our annual fundraiser Dinner and Auction at North Fork Town Hall. We have some fabulous items up for auction. Be prepared for a memorable evening of classy food and fun. The Buckhorn Saloon will be catering the sit down dinner with your choice of Tri Tip, Chicken or a delicious Vegetarian selection.

Pre-Sale Tickets are $18 each

(a limited number of tickets will be available for sale at the door, at $20 each)

Our Auctioneer for the evening, North Fork's own Tom Wheeler, will try his best to encourage you to dig deeply into your pockets to support the chamber's town restoration projects while entertaining you. All of your friends look forward to seeing you there.

Please put this special event on your calendar now!

Pre-sale tickets are available at North Fork Hardware and the Buckhorn Saloon on Main Street in North Fork.

Dinner/Auction Information: 877-2410

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Water Management Plan

2008-04-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

The following is an excerpt from a letter written by Ken Swanson of Boyle Engineering Corp to the Integrated Regional Water Management Plan Advisory Committee Members on April 16th:

The Madera County Integrated Regional Water Management Plan (Plan) was unanimously accepted by the Board of Supervisors on April 14, 2008. The final document is available on the Madera County website . The project website has been closed.

The acceptance of the Plan as an initial assessment of conditions in the County that also identifies alternatives to protect and improve the County's water resources is only the first step in developing and implementing the Plan. The State is currently developing guidelines for these Plans that should be available to the County later this year. It is anticipated that the County will apply for additional funding to update the Plan to meet future State guidelines. In addition, the Madera County Water Advisory Commission (MCWAC) will review the Plan at least every six months to ensure it is kept current and is updated as conditions change or new information or data is available. Additionally, the MCWAC will be discussing the formation of subcommittees to review and work on the Plan as necessary. The intent is that the document be a "living document" that will be used to assist the County in making decisions regarding water resources in the County now and in the future.

I would like to thank all that participated in the development of the Plan. I know that it took many hours of your time in attending meetings and reviewing documents. Your efforts and giving of your time is greatly appreciated. I also commend the County in taking the lead in preparing this Plan. It is one of only a few being prepared in the Central Valley region and throughout the State. It is also the only Plan that addresses water resources on a countywide basis, including both mountain and valley floor regions. It is very important that the County continue to be proactive in addressing it water resource issues so that the State does not step in and do it for the County. I know that everyone involved believes that Madera County water resource issues are best handled at the local level by the stakeholders that best understand the issues.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Dance & Sing While the Music is Still Playing

2008-04-09T23:48:00.000-07:00

For Love of the World

2008-04-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Beach at Carmel, CA

In my previous post last Monday telling about the memorial celebration of Cynthia Loweburg's life, I mentioned that people spoke and read poetry and that there was a memory table with photos and a poem on it. You can see the memory table in the photo at the top of my March 31st post, but you cannot see the words of the illustrated poem on the right hand side of the table.

One of Cynthia's close friends found this poem in a "hippie catalog" that her daughter showed her and she felt it spoke of Cynthia so well that she purchased the poster with the poem on it, had it rush shipped to her and then framed it to read and present it to Cynthia's family at the memorial gathering last Sunday. I really like what the poem says, believe it does apply to Cynthia and other women that I have known, and would aspire to be like the woman in this poem.

The author is Charlotte Tall Mountain. I looked her up on the internet to find that she died in 2006 of cancer at the age of 64. She apparently was a very active, strong and passionate woman as well. You can read more about her and her poetry here.

Here's the beautiful poem:

For Love of the World
by Charlotte Tall Mountain

For the love of a tree,
she went out on a limb.

For the love of the sea,
she rocked the boat.

For the love of the earth,
she dug deeper.

For the love of community,
she mended fences.

For the love of the stars,
she let her light shine.

For the love of spirit,
she nurtured her soul.

For the love of a good time,
she sowed seeds of happiness.

For the love of the Goddess,
she drew down the moon.

For the love of nature,
she made compost.

For the love of a good meal,
she gave thanks.

For the love of family,
she reconciled differences.

For the love of creativity,
she entertained new possibilities.

For the love of her enemies,
she suspended judgment.

For the love of herself,
she acknowledged her worth.

And the world was richer for her.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Remembering Cynthia

2008-03-31T23:09:00.000-07:00

Memory Table

Yesterday's gathering to celebrate Cynthia Loweburg's life was very well attended. Town Hall was filled with people greeting each other, hugging, talking and eating the varied and abundant potluck dishes. Everyone was sharing memories of Cynthia and how she touched their lives. Many stories brought tears and also joy and laughter. Don and his family led the hall in a wonderful chorus of Row Row Row Your Boat that rolled through the crowd and lingered on the air like mist on the ocean. Their strength and love was an inspiration to all of us. Josh Freeman's video and slideshow presentation captured some of the most beautiful glimpses of Cynthia's life. Many people contributed photos for that presentation. Good work everyone. Love and light filled the room, and Cynthia's spirit was definitely with us.

Above is a photo of the memory table. Below are a few more snapshots. It was too crowded in there to really take many photos. Besides, I was too busy being present in the moment to worry about using my camera.

Some of the many who attended

Just some of the flowers ~ there were many bouquets

Photo Collage

We love you Cynthia. We know you are still here in the mountains.

Cynthia Loweburg Celebration of Life

2008-03-26T20:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone is invited to attend the memorial gathering for Cynthia Loweburg this Sunday, March 30th at Town Hall. It is a potluck lunch event that will include music, dancing, sharing and remembering.

Where: North Fork Town Hall

When: Sunday, March 30th, 1pm

Bring: Potluck Food, Photos of Cynthia, Musical Instruments, Memories, Love

For More Info: Call 877-4196 or 877-2129 or 877-3061

See Cynthia's Memorial Website for more info, photos & sharing

New Life in North Fork

2008-03-24T16:02:00.000-07:00

As promised, I am reporting back on the nest building activities under the old weathered roof shake near the corner of my building.

I check daily for activity by the knothole entrance to the nest, but not much has been happening until just recently. A couple of days ago I noticed a tangled remnant of yarn stuffed into the very edge of the knothole. Work on the nest construction has obviously commenced.

Evidence of springtime is everywhere you look. The earth is warming, the tulips in my wine barrel at home are about to explode into blossom, the redbud trees in downtown North Fork will be ablaze with crimson blossoms, and tiny green leaves on the now barren oak trees will be unfolding soon.

Today, when I arrived to open my business, I looked again for any activity near the nest entrance. And, there perched in the redbud tree, just under the knothole, were Mom & Dad sparrow chirping excitedly to each other. One sparrow was slightly built and colorful, the other more rounded and plain. They were obviously partners about to put together a family, and they were checking out the neighborhood.

The sparrows seemed to trust me, so I slowly moved a little closer to get a picture of them chattering at each other. They have just started the nest construction and there will be many more trips back and forth. I may even help them this year by hanging some string and yarn in the tree.

In a few weeks there will be barely audible peeping sounds coming from under that old shake, and tiny feathered heads bobbing up and down under the edge of the roof. I love how nature’s story unfolds right in front of me.

Spring is Here

2008-03-21T12:30:00.001-07:00

Herbs, pansies & chard ready for the garden

Spring is here in the mountains. Yesterday was our vernal equinox, or first day of Spring.

The sun is shining brightly and the plants are starting to grow and bloom. The grass, weeds and wildflowers will soon be plentiful and tall.

Spring is nature's signal for new growth and for us to move forward with positive spirit. Planting seeds, nurturing them, tending them and awaiting the promise of our harvest. A busy season full of plans and promise.

Spring is here. May it grow strong and live forever in our hearts.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

She Was Loved, She Will Be Missed

2008-03-18T21:19:00.000-07:00

Cynthia Loweburg

Occasionally during a lifetime you might be lucky to encounter a special person that lights your world up when they enter a room, or when you meet them on the street exchanging a friendly hello. They have that special quality to make you feel important, like they really care about you, what you are saying, and how you are doing.

Cynthia Loweburg was that kind of person, and she departed for the light this week doing what she likes best in her back yard. I have known Cynthia for years as a loyal customer, a fellow Chamber officer, and recently a yoga classmate.

We always seemed to run into each other, the annual Intermountain Nursery craft fairs, meetings and events of the Squirrel Cage Theatre group and other civic events in our small town community. Then there was the occasional email informing her that a package had been left off at my hardware store because the UPS driver would not deliver down the dirt road where they lived. I often chuckled at her occasional dyslexic and brief responses, e.g. “thanx cyntiha”.

Cynthia was the star of our yoga class. She was such an inspiration for us. We looked to her all the time to see how to do the proper form of the positions we were attempting to do. It felt weird not having her physically in class with us this week. Our yoga instructor brought in a small table and set up an altar covered with a purple yoga blanket. She had candles and two huge white quartz crystals and a big hunk of amethyst displayed there as well. She had the candles lit throughout our session. We laid out Cynthia’s yoga mat, blanket and blocks for her spirit to join us in class as usual.

We were instructed to think of Cynthia’s love light and bring her energy into our heart space. She asked us to do that for ourselves as well as to help Cynthia on her journey into the light.

The instructor was quite matter of fact about Cynthia’s passing, I personally was thinking about Cynthia during the quiet rest times. Memories of how proud she was having just purchased a new shiny Toyota RAV. And, then there was the kidding I gave her about not taking care of her new “baby” when mud and dust covered the car from her trip down the mountain from home.

I looked across the room at people wiping tears away as we were singing the yoga invocation chants. We could hear Cynthia’s voice singing with us.

It was a good class, but Cynthia was very much missed. A fitting soft remembrance to her though. She was our yoga hero. We affectionately called her “Gumby” because she was so flexible. Now we don’t know who to look to so that we can get the yoga poses right. A small thing, but she touched our lives in that way recently and in other ways over the years.

As far as the physical body dying, (transitioning, leaving the planet) goes, I guess for her it was a good way to do it. Quick, probably painless and outdoors in her own yard. It’s just really hard for all of those she left behind, because there was no real warning and it’s really hard to accept it mentally when it happens so fast and unexpectedly. Our yoga instructor told us that just this past week Cynthia had been really up and happy about her life, expressing that she was “getting it all together”. Some things are still mysterious to us. Perhaps the Universe does that on purpose.

On earth, Cynthia was always such a free spirit, following her own music, a butterfly flying on the breeze. Now she flies wild, high and free. Can you hear her music on the wind?

See more about Cynthia at her memorial website.

Pine and Oak

2008-03-13T13:03:00.000-07:00

NORTH FORK
ABOVE FOG AND BELOW SNOW
AS WE ALL WELL KNOW.
STATE CENTER IS VERY NEAR
OF THAT WE ARE VERY CLEAR.
BUT SOMETHING SEEN BUT SELDOM SPOKE
IS THE MEETING OF PINE AND OAK.
ELEGANT PINE AND SWARTHY OAK
COME TOGETHER IN THIS PLACE
SEEN SOMETIMES IN FOND EMBRACE.

Spring Forward & Dance

2008-03-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

Almond Blossoms

Daylight Savings Time begins early this year. Remember to turn your clocks one hour ahead tomorrow at 2am….or you can change them before you go to bed tonight….

Joggin Jack attended last Thursday’s NF chamber of commerce meeting and reported back that their annual Auction Dinner Fundraiser has now turned into their annual Auction Dinner & Dance Fundraiser. So this is a new and interesting turn of events. Read about last year's Auction Dinner.

When is this new annual event going to happen this year? The date for the Auction Dinner & Dance Fundraiser has been set for Saturday April 19, 2008. I will post more details here in this blog space as the event date grows near. View the chamber of commerce Special Events list for this and other community events.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Rancheria Housing Project

2008-03-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

For months I have been casually observing the activity up on the ridge above the Buckhorn Saloon. I already knew from a briefing at a Chamber meeting that the Rancheria IHA (Indian Housing Authority) was moving forward on a multi dwelling housing development. And, daily, I can expect to be asked at least once about what's all that construction up on the ridge above North Fork. So, my curiosity finally got the best of me the other day, and after closing the store I took a short drive up the paved entrance off rd 222 to investigate exactly what was going on up there on the hill.

As I broached the top of the rather steeply inclined blacktopped driveway, the street sign in the above photo greeted me. I knew the words were obviously rooted in the Mono language, and I later confirmed the translation with one of the tribal elders. WAH UP WAY translates to Cedar, and KUNUGIB means Valley Elderberry. I could pronounce the first easily, the second was very challenging, and my very patient tribal elder and I both knew after several tries that I would never be a linguist. I also found out that Tahoot near the Bonnie B road turn off means "deer" in the Mono language.

The WAH UP WAY sign pointed proudly toward the beautiful new community building below and I stopped for few moments to enjoy the view.

At the time I was thinking what a magnificent setting for a community building just above our little village of North Fork. And, no wonder the Mono Indians settled here hundreds of years ago.

I knew from reviewing the architectural drawings with the project superintendent a few years ago that there was a fully outfitted commercial kitchen, a library, several offices, and a traditional round house meeting area inside the building. The slanted roof on the far left side is a newly constructed youth center addition that will be open to "all" North Fork youths in about two months.

I continued driving slowly down KUNUGIB (Valley Elderberry), and parked my car just in front of house number 2 presently being framed. There wasn't that much to see other than nailed up two by fours, chip board, and piles of construction material, but the incredible view took my breath away. I just stood there for a few minutes wishing this was going to be my house.

As I drove further down Valley Elderberry street I could see a newly finished home. It appeared to be occupied, so I stayed a respectable distance taking photos so as to not alarm the new owner. The house was very cute and well constructed, a fine addition to North Fork . The Rancheria IHA team certainly must be proud of their accomplishment, I know I was very impressed.

Just before I left the building site to head home for the evening, I stepped back, took a deep breath, and snapped this incredible photo of our valley.

The Rancheria and it's housing project has contributed generously to the struggling economy of North Fork by purchasing supplies locally. They have also added beauty through the extensive restoration of their main administration building on Main Street, and now the new housing development up on the ridge, and a youth center for our youngsters. I am proud of their good work and I glad they are part of our community.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Art Scholarship

2008-03-05T17:05:00.000-08:00

I read this in today’s edition of the Oakhurst Chamber’s online newsletter:

The North Fork Arts Council (NFAC) is pleased to announce that this year it will be awarding two scholarships to deserving graduating seniors - one in music and one in fine art. Each scholarship is for $500. Among other eligibility requirements, the recipient must be a graduating senior from a school in Eastern Madera County, must reside within the Chawanakee Unified School District, and must plan on continuing his or her education in music or fine art.

This is good, and I am glad to see North Fork getting more recognition in the Oakhurst Chamber’s newsletter. Kudos to the NF Arts Council and all those supporting this scholarship program.

Springtime in North Fork

2008-03-04T17:17:00.001-08:00

Now, one would wonder why a worn out piece of facia board under the eve of my store front at North Fork Hardware would be of such interest, or most especially why this had anything at all to do with the happenings in the tiny village of North Fork.

You can't see much activity quite yet, but very soon new movement will be happening just under the right edge of the old weathered shake you see in the photo. If you look very, very closely, a knot hole can barely be seen under that old weathered shake, and has been the entrance for several generations of sparrows building a home for their newly arriving babies. I have watched this miracle of nature for several years now and always wonder how the next generation finds it's way back to that exact same old knot hole.

I can already see my neighbors and me gathered quietly in wonder watching several trips of the very focused sparrows bringing in nest building materials. It's really quite something to watch, and definitely clear evidence that Springtime is about to arrive in North Fork. And, if we venture too closely to the nearby red bud tree just under the eve, Mom and Dad sparrow will give us a severe scolding. So, we back off and watch like little kids at the wonders of nature unfolding in front of us.

I really enjoy this time of year, the new growth like the daffodils my Mom planted in front of the store last year, and the promise of better things to come. Stay tuned, I'll be submitting progress reports on how our sparrow family and North Fork is progressing as Springtime arrives.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

Local Weather & Events Info

2008-03-02T17:54:00.000-08:00

North Fork Foggy View

The photo above was taken last week at the 3000 ft elevation here in North Fork when it was cold, wet and foggy out there. The outlook for the coming week is predicted to be slightly warmer and slightly sunnier with sunny to partly cloudy weather predicted all week long.

I can only tell you about two community events this week as those are the only events about which I have information right now. The first one is the monthly North Fork Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting, which is scheduled for this Thursday, March 6th at 7am in the Buckhorn Saloon.

The second is the 4th Annual Young Masters Fine Art Gallery Show, which is scheduled for Saturday & Sunday March 8th & 9th in Kennedy Hall at North Fork School. Contact phone number for more information is 877-2996. From the flyer I saw, it looks like the North Fork Arts Council is supporting and/or sponsoring this event, but I am not sure of that.

Have a wonderful week everybody!

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News

North Fork News Space

2008-03-01T21:09:00.000-08:00

Welcome to North Fork News!

This space has been created to provide our readers with information about community events, local news, business happenings, useful links, opinions and even a little gossip about our small rural town of North Fork, California.

There are three authors to this blog, all of whom have been active in local community organizations at one time or another. All three are local North Fork business owners and have served on the board of directors for the North Fork Chamber of Commerce in the past. None are currently members of that board. Please be clear that any of the postings and opinions that are written here in this blog are the personal opinions of the authors only, and are not a reflection of or associated with the community organizations in which the authors are currently members or have been members of in the past.

We welcome your visits and your comments.

© Copyright 2008 North Fork News