PRSRTSTD ECR U.S.POSTAGEPAID Independent · PDF fileThe PRSRTSTD ECR U.S.POSTAGEPAID ... Always prepare your children “If I were a thief, ... In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cashby

The PRSRT STDECRU.S. POSTAGE PAIDMADERA, CA.PERMIT NO. 61

Volume 7 Issue 12 2011 The Official Publication of Southeastern Madera County 50¢

RanchosIndependent

In This Issue Editorial • Page 5 / Aunt Jean’s Ranchos Recipes • Page 8Classifieds • Page 22 / Fun Pages • Pages 26 & 27

The PRSRTSTDECRU.S.POSTAGEPAIDMADERA, CA.PERMITNO.61


RanchosIndependent


The family of fallen U.S. servicemanSgt. Raul Moncada stand proudly in front of thefirst sign erected in Madera County at thecommunity level to honor a fallen memberof our armed forces. On Thursday, Novem-ber 17 at a special dedication service, thememorial was unveiled at its location onRoad 37 at Avenue 12. A second sign wasalso posted on Road 37 and Avenue 13,drawing attention to the significance ofRoad 37 since it is the road where Sgt. Mon-cada grew up in the Ranchos and where hisfamily still lives today.

Sharing in the dedication were(from left) Sgt. Moncada’s father, Raul Sr.,

sister Daniela, brother Julio, Sgt. Moncada’sdaughter Priscila, his mother Obdulia and broth-ers Ruben and Matthew.

Phot

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Don

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er

The PRSRTSTDECRU.S. POSTAGEPAIDMADERA, CA.PERMITNO. 61


RanchosIndependent


Extreme weatherin the Ranchos

takes its tollon local roadsPhoto Courtesy of Don Foster

The PRSRT STDECRU.S. POSTAGE PAIDMADERA, CA.PERMITNO. 61


RanchosIndependent


Picture Courtesy of the Vick Family



RanchosIndependent


Photo Courtesy of Madera County Sheriff’s Department



RanchosIndependent


Picture Courtesy of Shawndee Dix

Liberty High School’s Architecture, Constructionand Engineering (A.C.E.) Mentor Program

took on four other high schools fromFresno County in a mock buildingproject proposal competitionat Fresno State, judged byprofessionals in the buildingand educational fields.

The team, Liberty’s firstever, came away with thetop prize and the respectof the other schoolsand judges.



RanchosIndependent


As part of a fundraiserfor Madera Ranchoscharities, Tom Hurst(center) is elected the

Madera RanchosHonorary

Mayor andis flanked by

Kiwanis memberDebbie Farr (left) and

Kiwanis PresidentMona Diaz.

Photo by John Gluck


Volume 7 Issue 6 2011 The fficial Publication of Southeastern Madera County 50¢

RanchosIndependent


The PRSRT STDECRU.S. POSTAGEPAIDMADERA, CA.PERMITNO. 61


RanchosIndependent




RanchosIndependent


Phot

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Mar

yTu

cker

The PRSRTSTDECRU.S.POSTAGEPAIDMADERA, CA.PERMITNO.61


RanchosIndependent


Word From Home,a ministry of Lifetree

@ Madera RanchosAssembly of God Church,

sponsored the 4th Annual 9/11Ranchos Cruise-In and CarShow to help raise funds to

send “care packages” to ourtroops overseas. Over 1,290packages have been sent to

troops in Iraq and Afghanistan in thepast 5 years by this local group.



RanchosIndependent


Looking Back:Taking a look back

at the top storiesin the Ranchos

for 2011

Page 2

Click on “Local News” at

Drug Cartel in the Ran-chos/July • Every commu-

nity has some crime, but when youwake up and discover a multi-state bustgoing down in your backyard, involv-ing the Mexican Sinaloa drug cartel, itmakes you stop and think. Over the nextfew months the criminal activity in theRanchos took an uncomfortable in-crease.

Thieves Strip LHS Sta-dium Wire/August • Talk

about theGrinch stealingChristmas.Afterall the years it took to get a stadium com-pleted and what it meant to the students,the athletes and the community, thievesbroke into the stadium and stripped all ofthe copper wires. Everything. Over$56,000 in damage and just before thefirst football game of the season.

Sgt. Moncada StreetDedication/November •

For the first time anywhere in MaderaCounty, a segment of residential streetwas dedicated to the memory of a fallenhero, Sgt. Raul Moncada. He lived here,grew up here and his family still resideson Road 37 that was dedicated in hishonor. His life cut short by an IED inIraq, he will not be forgotten in the Ran-chos.

Re-striping of Avenue12/June • Nothing has the po-

tential of throwing a small communityinto an uproar like messing with some-thing that everyone takes for granted on aday-to-day basis, like its main road. Butthe County of Madera came out, re-stripedAvenue 12 to provide a dedicatedcenter turn lane and got rid of cars (andtrucks) parking on the sides of the roadand the community accepted it flawlessly.

Massive Stash Found inRanchos/February • An

unassuming home onAvenue 12 piquedthe curiosity of a Sheriff’s Deputy whonoticed some burning in the back yard.By the time all the ashes had settled,hundreds of thousand of dollars instolen property from all over the Cen-tral Valley was discovered, along withdrugs, money and criminals. Wow.

Please see TOP 10 on P. 18

1

2

3

4

5

Body of Man Found in Orchard South of RanchosIf Ruled a Homicide, Will

be Fourth in 2011 for MaderaCounty

By Randy Bailey

The Madera County Sheriff’s Depart-ment is investigating the death of an olderAfrican American male found on themorning of Dec. 21 in an olive orchard onthe southwest corner of the intersection ofAvenue 7 and Road 34. The body was dis-covered about two rows into the olive or-chard off of the road. The naked body wasdiscovered by a worker shortly before 9a.m.

An autopsy was performed but failedto render a cause of death and Sheriff JohnAnderson is calling the death “suspi-cious.” The Sheriff’s Department is now

waiting for the results of toxicology tests,which won’t be made available for two tothree weeks.

The victim remains a “John Doe” atthis hour but is described as a lightskinned, elderly African American. Hestood 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighed 160pounds. He was completely bald andsported a salt-and-pepper-colored mus-tache and goatee. He also had a 9 inch scaracross his torso. One outstanding charac-teristic was that he had a “cauliflower ear”on the left side, possibly indicating that hewas a boxer at one time.

Anyone with information is urged tocall the Madera County Sheriff’s Depart-ment at 559-675-7770.

One of Four, if Ruled HomicideIf this is ruled a homicide, it will be

the fourth this year. In chronological order

of 2011 coroner cases:1. January 25, 2011 – Murder/Sui-

cide – 23-year-old Crystal Lynn Lewis(DOB 9-15-1987) killed her 5-year-olddaughter in the home where they lived, lo-cated on Windsong Way just north of Ah-wahnee, roughly a half mile south of theMadera/Mariposa county line. Crystal’sbody was discovered under the WilliamSells Jr. Bridge at approximately 7:30 a.m.in Mariposa County about 2 and a halfmiles from Crystal’s home. It is believedCrystal jumped to her death.

2. February 17, 2011 – Bass LakeDouble Murder/Suicide – the suspect,who died from a self-inflicted gunshotwound, was identified as 71-year-oldJames H. (Jim) Williamson (DOB 2-27-1939). The victims are identified as San-

Please see BODY on P. 20

Apint-sized Springer Spaniel, who for nearly 10 years has demon-strated almost dailywhy he isMaderaCounty law enforcement’s great-est pride and joy, retires at the end of this month. K9 Zak earned areputation as a top dog among drug sniffing canines by local, state andeven federal officials.

Bred in England, this highly trained Springer Spaniel came to theUnited States in 2003 and on the 4th of Julyof that same year was paired with the onlypartner he’s ever known, Sergeant TysonPogue.

His achievements aremany and to giveyou an idea of just how exceptional Zak is,here are some K9 stats, chalked full of suc-cessful alerts and seizures during the courseof his nearly decade long service:

• Zak was deployed more than 600times to search for narcotics resulting inmore than 200 felony arrests.

• Zak has alerted officers to more than350 areas found to contain narcotics result-ing in the seizure of more than 4,300 gramsofmethamphetamine, 21,000 grams ofmar-ijuana, 1,515 grams of cocaine, 158 gramsof heroin, several vehicles and $785,000 incash.The street value of the narcotics seizedis around $350,000.

• Zak located the odor of narcoticsmore than 4,000 times during ourmore than1,500 hours of training and countless publicK9 demonstrations.

• Zak and his handler, (partner and friend) also served onMaderaCounty’s Drug Task Force known as MADNET.

• Zak has not only been an asset to the Madera County Sheriff’sDepartment, but he has been deployed to assist countless agencies in-cluding the Fresno PoliceDepartmentMajorNarcoticsUnit, theMari-posa County Sheriff’s Dept., United States Forestry LawEnforcementDivision, California Department of Corrections, California State Pa-

role, CaliforniaDepartment of Fish andGame,Madera County Proba-tion,MaderaCountyNarcotic EnforcementTeam,MaderaCountyDe-partment ofCorrections,Madera PoliceDepartment, Chowchilla PoliceDepartment, LosAngeles County Sheriff’s Department, Madera Uni-fied School District, Yosemite Unified School District, California De-partment of Justice Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement, United States

Customs, United States Drug EnforcementAgency,United StatesOffice of the Interior,KingsCountyNarcoticTask Force,MercedMariposaNarcoticTask Force, CentralVal-ley Marijuana Enforcement Team, CentralValleyHigh IntensityDrugTraffickingAreaTask Force,Merced Gang Suppression En-forcementTeam,MaderaCountyGangEn-forcement Team and the CaliforniaHighway Patrol.

Back in 2003, barley two months intohis job, Zak was alreadymaking headlines.With almost 50 arrests already under hiscollar, Zak started making his presenceknown especially during one particular traf-fic stop in Oakhurst. K9 Zak was deployedduring the stop and quickly alerted his han-dler to a backpack just behind the passen-ger seat. Inside, Deputies found a bag filledwith a usable amount ofmethamphetamine.Aglass pipe would be found in the driver’spocket and a vial filledwithmeth in the pas-senger’s pant pocket.

Later, Zak was back in the news again, this time, for helping theMadera Police Department close a complicated drug case. It all startedwhenMadera PoliceOfficers seized nearly $100,000 from a vehicle inthe city of Madera. While the Police Department has K9’s, they don’thave dogs trained to sniff out narcotics, so the Madera Police Depart-

Madera County’s Top Drug-Sniffing Dog to Retire

Please see K9 ZAK on P. 20

Sergeant Tyson Pogue and Zak.

2011 •TopTenRanchos Stories

ffrroomm tthhee ppaaggeess ooff tthhee RRaanncchhooss IInnddeeppeennddeenntt

Page 3

www.The Ranchos.com

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12/11

Are you doing your part to helpkeep your Holiday season a safe one?The Madera County Sheriff ’s Depart-ment made a list for shoppers to checkso they can find out for themselves ifthey are doing all they can to avoidfalling prey. Sheriff John Anderson isalso issuing his annual list of basic tipshighlighting simple steps citizensshould take to stay safe all year long.

Protecting your vehicles and

valuables stored inside:Don't leave your car unlocked even

if you know you will be gone for just afew minutes.

Don't leave purchased items inplain view inside your car. Instead,store them in the trunk of your vehiclewhere they can't be seen.

Don't leave your vehicle unlockedwhen gassing up. You'll have betterpeace of mind knowing your car is se-cure when filling your tank and paying

at the pump.Don't leave your car unlocked

while driving. Thieves can easily opena door while you wait at a stoplight.Keep your doors locked at all times.

Protecting you and yourvaluables while shopping:

Don't place your purse in yourshopping cart when shopping for giftsor groceries. Turn your back for just asecond, and your bag may be gone.

Don't leave your purse in your cartwhen placing items in your car.

Don't place your personal effectson the hook of a restroom stall or onthe floor where thieves can reach them.Instead, keep them close to you at alltimes.

Always park in a well-lighted area.Always try to shop with a buddy.Always prepare your children

“If I were a thief, you would now be a victim” - Basic Holiday Safety Tips

Please see VICTIM on P. 18

Page 4


The Bookshelf

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By Garin Gonzales

Happy holidays, everyone! I hope you all have a fun and safe holiday season. Allof the Madera County library branches will be closed from Dec. 22 for a nice little “va-cation,” but we will be back at work (although my job is so terrific I hardly believe it’swork) on Dec. 27. So now would be a good time to come in and borrow some books,DVDs, CDs and anything else that will help entertain you throughout the busy season.I also wanted to remind you of the new library hours. Effective Jan. 3, 2012 our hourswill be changing:

Closed MondayTuesday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.Wednesday and Thursday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Closed Sunday. Thanks to all those people who came into the library and filled out our question-

naire. You asked for new hours and the county board of supervisors listened and madethe changes. Sometimes the squeaky wheel does indeed get the grease.

A Few of My Favorite “Things”Okay, now the fun part of the article: These are a few of my favorite holiday …

things. This is a list of my top five books, movies, songs and anything else I can thinkup off the top of my head. Now, I’ve always celebrated Christmas with my family, somy list will definitely skew toward that particular holiday. Please don’t be offended ifyou don’t see any Hanukkah holiday items on my list. Here goes:

A Christmas Story – Still my favorite holiday movie of alltime and TBS won’t let me forget it. Around the holidays, TBSairs the movie for 24 hours (as they say, check your local list-ings). It’s the story of Ralphie, the boy who wants nothing morefor Christmas than “an official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200-shot range model air rifle with a compass and this thing whichtells time built right in to the stock!” This movie never ceasesto make me laugh and it comes from great source material…

In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd– This is the book A Christmas Story came from, but it’s somuch more. Shepherd’s nostalgic look back to childhood in hisIndiana home town is heartfelt, hilarious and genuinely sweet.

Father Christmas by the Kinks – This cynical little ditty nevergets old for me, and it’s good rock and roll. Sample the chorus: “Father Christmas, giveus some money, don’t mess around with those silly toys … we’ll beat you up if youdon’t hand it over, we want your bread so don’t make us annoyed. Give all those toysto the little rich boys.” A perfect Bah Humbug!

All of the Stop-Motion Christmas Specials – Forget the Grinch. The best holi-day specials aren’t animation, they’re made in pain-staking stop-motion! Who canforget Santa Claus is Coming to Town? Or how about Rudolph the Red-Nosed Rein-deer? My favorite moment: When Rudy meets his wife-to-be Clarice: “She thinks I’mcuuuuute! She thinks I’m cuuuuute!” These specials are fun, oddly psychedelic inparts and timeless. Also, “Bumbles bounce.” (If you don’t get that reference, it’s okay.Your heart is just a lump of coal, that’s all.)

Christmas with the Rat Pack – When I was workingmy way through library school, I did part-time work as a DJfor holiday parties and the like. While the party was gettingwarmed up, I would play this holiday CD from Frank Sina-tra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. and friends. No oneever complained because these songs are like a comfort-able Christmas sweater: Always cozy, always comfy andalways appropriate for the season. My favorite? I’ve GotMy Love to Keep Me Warm, by Dean Martin.

Well that’s all for now, folks. If you’d like to comeinto the library and tell me all about your holiday favorites,I’d be more than happy to listen. And if you’d like to check out some of theseholiday “treats” (some of which are available in our library), be sure to bring your librarycard. In fact, don’t leave home without it!

www.The Ranchos.com

The Ranchos Independent is published by Five and Two Publishing.All contents of this publication are copyright 2011, all rights reserved.Reprintingwithout the permission of the

copyright holder is forbidden by law.All articles are submitted as the opinion of the author, who remains solely responsible for the content. The in-

formation gathered for this publication is from sources that are considered to be reliable, but are not guaranteed.Opinions expressed in advertisements or articles remain the opinion of the writer.

Randy Bailey............Publisher/EditorChristi McKinney -- Reporter • Jean Briner -- Columnist, Advertising Sales

Rachael Bailey -- Advertising Sales • Tina Shannon -- Advertising Sales

RanchosIndependentThe

559-645-0634

Page 5

37167 Ave. 12, Suite 5C • Madera, CA [email protected]

By Randy Bailey

It’s hard to believe.Seven years ago this month was the

first Ranchos Independent that had myfingerprints all over it. A very sick BillBell knew that his time on earth wasn’tmuch longer and he desperately wantedsomeone to keep the Ranchos Independ-ent alive. At that time, local papers werebeing bought up by larger regional papersand he didn’t want to see that happen. Asa matter of fact, he didn’t want to see theRanchos Independent be bought by some-one outside of the Ranchos because hefelt that such a person just “wouldn’t getit” about what the Ranchos is all about.People outside of the area courted Bill buthe held firm until yours truly came along.I’ve told the story before, but the way

I first made contact with the Ranchos In-dependent was a letter to the editor I hadsent in favoring Sierra View Elementaryschool joining in with the newly formedGolden Valley Unified. I had included myname, address and phone number on theletter (like you’re SUPPOSED to ... aconcept seven years later that I can’t getcertain pockets of my readership to grasp)and Bill inadvertently published ALL ofthat information in the paper. I was prettyhot when I went into the Ranchos Inde-pendent office that first time but waslaughing it all off by the time I left.Not too long after that I was calling

on another advertiser for a magazine that

I used to publish and the advertiser toldme that the Ranchos Independent was forsale. I started talking to Bill Bell and aftera few visits he was convinced that I wouldbe a good fit for the Ranchos Independ-ent.I’m still here.In the seven years that I’ve had the

paper I’ve seen a lot of things happen inthe Ranchos. Most recently I’ve wit-nessed the shrinking number of busi-nesses in the Ranchos. I’ve seen theimpact that has had on the Golden ValleyChamber of Commerce, a venerable in-stitution that has been helping area busi-nesses for the last 20 years, but now findsitself struggling. I get people asking mehow things are going down at the news-paper and I tell them, “Great ... if I couldkeep the number of advertisers up.” Fouryears ago I could go back to advertiserswho hadn’t advertised in a while and tryto get persuasive with them. Today, thoseadvertisers aren’t just being coy or frugalwith their advertising dollars; they don’texist anymore.The bottom line for the majority of

Ranchos residents is, “Who cares? IfXYZ Company is gone in the RanchosI’ll just pick it up on my way home fromwork in Fresno.”And there’s the rub. We get this self-

fulfilling prophecy going where we holdback our dollars in fear of supporting anenterprise that “might not make it” andwhat happens? It doesn’t make it.

Seven Years Later ... Thank You

"In thisspringtime

of hope,some

lightsseem

eternal;America's

is."

Editorial

Wow. What a surprise.So there’s one less BBQ restaurant.

One less pet grooming/pet supply store.No place to go locally and get trophies orcustom gifts. No place local where youcan get your eyeglasses adjusted.Why? Because WE didn’t support

them.I thank you all for supporting the

Ranchos Independent these past sevenyears but this Christmas my wish is notfor me. My wish is that you all see the in-credible diversity of businesses here in theRanchos and that you use them for theirgoods and services. You’ll be doing theright thing by patronizing local peoplewho have the same interests at heart thatyou do. If you don’t, don’t be surprisedwhen you wake up one day and there’s noone left.


Page 612

/11

www.The Ranchos.com

Page 7

By Audrey Stock

Hi neighbors,Have a hol ly, jol ly Chris tmas!

I t is Chris tmas t ime and my veryfavori te t ime of the year. I havebeen signing and sending out 120Christmas cards with Christmas let-ters . I have already been get t ingChris tmas cards from family andfriends. It is good to get caught upon people I only hear from once ayear. I love the lights on all of thehouses. We live in such a pretty li t-t le community. My own outsidelights are up, thanks to my family.My old-fashioned Chris tmas treewith colored lights and special or-naments that I have collected overthe years is in the front room andmakes my heart glad. I am makingmy lis ts and checking them twice.It looks like I am going to run outof time if I don’tget a move on. Iam star t ing tomake my familymembers’ fa-vori te Chris tmascookies andcandy. I t suremakes the housesmell good. Myson, Bob, fromHawaii wil l behere soon. Myg r a n d d a u g h t e rAmy and hus-band Sean wil lbe here withtheir dog. Nextwil l be myg r a n d d a u g h t e rMelanie from thestate of Texas. Iam exci ted to see them all . Myspare rooms will be full and all ofthe local family members will be inand out . I wil l be able to cook tomy heart’s content . We wil l breakout the games and try to rememberhow to play them.

Seniors NewsThe Ranchos/Hil ls Seniors had

their annual Christmas Dinner andInstallation on Dec.12. Yes it is thatt ime of the year when our differentorganizations install their new offi-cers for 2012. The new officers forthe Ranchos/Hil ls Seniors are notreal ly new; they did such a good

job last year that we elected themto serve for another year. Our onenew officer is Diane Maxfield. Wel-come Diane, we are pleased to haveyou on the board. TheRanchos/Hil ls Seniors are alreadyplanning act ives for next year.There will be a New Year ’s party atthe center on Dec. 31 There will beno monthly sale on Jan. 7 but saveApr. 7, 2012 for the annual Ran-chos/Hills Senior Home and GardenFestival. If you are into bike ridingsave Apr. 21 for the Ranchos/HillsSeniors’ 3rd Annual Bike Ride.Working on al l of these projectskeeps us seniors young, i f youdon’t think so come on over andgive us a try. We never stop.

Like to Travel?If you love to travel with a fun

bunch of people save May 9-19,2012 for an 11-day journeythrough the statesof Georgia andSouth Carol ina.We will fly out ofFresno with onlyone stop in Den-ver and on to At-lanta , Ga. Nohassle with eitherLA or San Fran-cisco Airports .One special t reatwil l be dinner atPaula Deen’sLady and Sonsrestaurant in Sa-vannah, Ga. I cantaste that south-ern cooking al-ready. If you

would like to learn more call JoannBlancett at the Ranchos/Hil ls Sen-ior Center at 645-4864 to star tplanning now for this wonderful va-cat ion. Joann has al l of the paper-work you wil l need to f i l l out forthe trip so you can start saving now.

I know that there are a lot ofpeople with musical ta lent in thiscommunity. I belong to the GoldenValley Baptis t Church and we arelooking for some local ta lent toplay in our church. If you are inter-ested call me at 645-1407 or PastorDavid Jones at 559-7609. Bestwishes for a wonderful Chris tmasholiday and a Happy New Year.

My Very Favorite Time of theYearThe Stock Report

I love the lights on all ofthe houses. We live in such apretty little community. Myown outside lights are up,thanks to my family. My old-fashioned Christmas tree withcolored lights and special or-naments that I have collectedover the years is in the frontroom and makes my heartglad. I am making my lists andchecking them twice. It lookslike I am going to run out oftime if I don’t get a move on.

12/11

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MERRYCHRISTMAS& HAPPY NEWYEAR!

Say you saw it in the Ranchos Independent

Page 8

Are you or someone in yourfamily a diabetic? Or have youbeen told by your doctor that youare borderline diabetic? You feellike it is the end of the world. Forthose of you that have just been di-agnosed, I know exactly how youfeel. When I was diagnosed almost20 years ago and was told that Icouldn’t eat sweets any longer, Ifelt for sure Mars Candy Company,makers of Snickers, my favoritecandy bar, and Baskin and Robbinsice cream, Pralines ‘n Cream that Iloved, would for sure go bankruptbecause I couldn’t have their prod-ucts any longer. But they survivedas did I. I can honestly say I havenot had a Snick-ers in a longtime, although Iwill admit tohaving one ofthe litt le minia-ture bars a fewtimes and I can’tremember thelast time I hadsome Pralines ‘nCream.

For those ofyou that need to,if you stop eat-ing anythingwith sugar long enough you willget so used to it that after a whileyou will get to the point that sugarwill taste so sweet to you that it isyucky, believe me!

I receive an e-mail from a cou-ple of sites that help the diabeticstill have some good-tastingdesserts and help keep your sugarlevel down.

The first recipe is pastry cups,filled with fruit.

Cherry Berry Pie Cups1 refrigerated pie dough (1 top

and 1 bottom crust)20 oz. no sugar added cherry

pie filling1 pint fresh raspberries2 oz. topping, whipped cream

pressurized (optional)¼ cup Splenda sweetener –

granulatedPreheat oven to 425. Remove

one crust from pouch. Place on acutting board or flat surface androll out lightly to a 10-inch diame-ter. Using a 4-inch round cutter, cutout six rounds. Set scraps aside and

repeat with second crust.Lightly press the pastry rounds

into 12 muffin cups pressing intobottom and up sides to create pas-try cups. Prick sups with a fork andbake for 5 minutes.

In a medium bowl, mix to-gether the cherry pie filling and thesweetener. Gently fold in the rasp-berries. Spoon about 3 tablespoonsof the filling into each crust linedcup.

Bake for 18to 20 minutes oruntil the edgesand sides of thecups arebrowned and thefilling is bubbly.Let cool slightlyand serve warmor cool. Garnisheach cup with adollop of top-ping if desired.

112 Calo-ries, 16.1 g.carbs and 3.2 g.

sugar each cup.

Do you forgo a piece of pump-kin pie because there are just toomany calories, or it just has toomuch sugar in it? How about asugar free –

Creamy Instant PumpkinMousse

1 8 oz. tub topping – thawed1 small package sugar free in-

stant butterscotch pudding mix.¾ C low fat milk1 tsp. cinnamon¼ tsp. ground ginger1/8 tsp. ground cloves1 – 15 oz. canned solid pack

pumpkinIn a large bowl beat together

the pudding mix and milk untilslightly thickened. Add the pump-kin, cinnamon, ginger and cloves,and mix until well combined.

Gently fold in the whipped top-ping in three additions, Pour ½ cupof the mousse into each of the 8

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There you have it – threerecipes that should let you havedessert and not destroy yoursugar count. I sincerely hope youare able to keep your glucoseunder control because we allknow what can happen to you ifit gets out of control.

Good luck!

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by Jean Briner

Golden Valley BaptistPastor David Jones

12/1

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Sunday School 9 a.m.Sunday Worship Service 10:15 a.m.Tuesday 7 p.m. YOUTH 13-18

come meet new friends!

Merry Christmas from your friends at

Golden Valley Baptist Church

12414 Road 37 · Madera Ranchos · 559-645-1700www.GoldenValleyChurch.com

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Letters

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801 E. Yosemite Avenue, Madera662-8825

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645-891812/11

Dear Editor:

We had what I believe was thestrongest windstorm since I have lived inthis area, 33 years. Some of our buildings’roofs were destroyed. We had spent 2 ½days the previous weekend putting Christ-mas in our yard; of course it blew away andsome things were destroyed and there weremany other things around here hurt by thewind.

I must say one of the things that upsetme the most was seeing the red, white andblue barn (located at Highway 41 and Av-enue 12) had been partially torn apart. Ithink our area takes pride in that patrioticbarn and I can’t tell you how many peopleI have seen taking pictures of it. I wouldcertainly be happy to make a donation to-ward its restoration and I am sure therewould be others willing to help as well. Ifyou could tell us where to make a donationand if the owners would be willing to repairthe barn I would be most grateful.

Thank you,

Linda ManterMadera Ranchos

Dear Editor:

To our friends and supporters of theNorth Fork Rancheria,

Thank you for all your kind inquiries re-garding today’s events. Based on the evolv-ing nature of these matters, it is probablyprudent for us to limit what we say until weknow more and can be sure that we are pro-viding useful and accurate information. Yetwe wanted to be responsive to your numer-ous inquiries in the timely, transparent, andrespectful manner that reflects how we havealways done business. Accordingly, below isthe official statement we released today. Therewill certainly be more information in the nearfuture.

Interim North Fork RancheriaStatement On Events of 12/6/11

The North Fork Rancheria has offered itsfull cooperation in the investigation being con-ducted by the Office of the Inspector Generalfor the U.S. Department of the Interior. The

investigation apparently concerns the use anddisclosure of the limited funds advanced to theTribe for its proposed casino project under itsdevelopment agreement with Station Casinos.

This information is routinely madeavailable to tribal citizens in considerable de-tail, including general ledger records of eachand every check drawn from the project andother unrestricted tribal funds. The Tribetherefore does not understand the basis for theinvestigation, and is dismayed that informa-tion that the Tribe would have been more thanwilling to provide is instead being securedwith a search warrant.

Please direct further inquiries to:

John A. MaierAttorneys to the [email protected]

Official inquiries relating to today’sevents should be directed to John but feel freeto contact me regarding other community mat-ters. In the interim, we are grateful for yourcontinued support and promise to keep you ap-praised of developments. As has alwaysproven the case through this long and arduousprocess, together we will prevail and build abetter Madera!

Kind regards,

Charlie AltekruseNorth Fork Rancheria Community Relations

The Ranchos Independent welcomesyour letters. Whether you’re a fan or

someone looking for somethingto line the birdcage, we want

to hear from you. The only rules?Sign it, be civil or forget about it.

Send your letters to:

email:[email protected]

mail:The Ranchos Independent

37167 Ave. 12 #5CMadera, CA 93636

fax:559-645-4002



12

/11

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‘Twas the week before Christmas,Fast asleep in my bed,I awoke to the sounds,

Of some thumping o’erhead.Was it the prancing and pawing,

Of a reindeer hoof?Alas, i t was twits,

Running amok on my roof.

I remember how much I lovedChris tmas vacat ion when I wasl i t t le – a whole week or two offfrom school, the cold weather, thesweets , Chris tmas and al l thebeaut i ful t radi t ions that wentalong with it from the caroling toscout ing Chris tmas l ights . I wasnot, however, previously aware ofthe tradit ion that involved stomp-ing on your neighbor ’s roof . Isthis some sort of Santa beckoningri tual? Are they stomping downthe shingles sothe reindeerdon’t t r ip? Arethey trying tobe nice by mak-ing sure myroof is takencare of as well ,so Santadoesn’t skipme? I’m notsure what thedeal is . I t mustbe terr ibly ex-ci t ing to thosep a r t i c i p a t i n g ,judging fromthe noise theywere making,but from theother s ide ofthe ceil ing, i t isqui te aggravat-ing and makes me want to cl imbup there with a fire hose and spraythem off onto the street .

I lay in bed the other morning,after they had startled me awake,wondering to myself , why in theworld were these chi ldren up soearly? I am quite certain I remem-ber using my winter vacat ion tosleep in. Aren’t kids al lergic tomornings? So, I hauled myself outof bed, at least half an hour beforemy alarm was set to go off , andwalked out on my back pat iowhere I came face to face with theli t t le darlings wreaking havoc theneighborhood over. I could tel lthey were fr ightened to see me,

ANewHolidayTradition ...Not!

though, to be fair, i t could havejust been my morning hair – i ts tar t les me sometimes when Icatch an unprepared glance at myreflection first thing in the morn-ing.

I hollered at them to get downin the sternest , most authoritativetone I could muster first thing inthe morning, which took some ef-fort , and with morning voice I be-

l ieve I soundedmore l ike Har-vey Feirs te inthan the dri l linstructor I wasaiming for. Allof which turnedout to be point-less because thevery momentthey saw me,they were run-ning in al l di-rect ions. Iproceeded toyell anyway, thegoal was towake up theparents of thesekids so theycould sufferalong with meand the rest of

my apartment complex.I had hoped that the bride of

Frankenstein appearance, the bla-tant threats screamed in their gen-eral direct ion and the ominousswashbuckl ing abi l i t ies I dis-played with the mop that was dry-ing on my back patio was enoughto discourage them from return-ing. But all hope was lost becausethe next morning, before my alarmhad a chance to st i r me from mypeaceful s lumber wherein MarkBallas was taking me for a spinaround an enchanted dance floor,my eyes f l ipped open to the

I ask again, where are theparents? Mine knew where Iwas and, even if I did lie,which never fared well withthe James Bond-style tacticsthat my parents displayed dur-ing my adolescence, theywould constantly check up onme so if I wasn’t where I said Iwas going to be, they alwaysfound out. But these childrenhad parents cut from a differ-ent cloth, because their re-sponse was, “I can’t watchthem every minute, can I?”

For a free consultation, visitour Madera Ranchos office!

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Please see GENWHY on P. 11

Say you saw it inthe Ranchos Independent

12/11

Page 10

Page 11

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sounds of four or f ive adolescentboys reenact ing Stomp above myhead. Once again I s tormed out tomy patio and yelled at them to getdown, and once again they ran likeli t t le girls .

Now, my first inclination was tocover the roof with barbed or elec-t r ic wire , but i t would seem thatsome people frown on maiming andelectrocut ing youngsters , even theil l-behaved ones that don’t seem tothink running around on someoneelse’s roof , waking people up andcausing a disturbance, is consideredbad form. Now, of course, I don’twant them seriously injured, butsome superf ic ia l cuts and scrapes,or maybe a couple of jolts of elec-tricity ought to right their behavior,and it is painfully clear that eithertheir parents don’t care what theirchi ldren are doing, or don’t knowwhere they are that ear ly in themorning; ei ther way, someone hadto teach them a lesson and I humblyvolunteered my services. Of course,despi te my best arguments , mylandlord opted to go door to door totalk to the parents instead of my

idea of a surprise bli tz attack usingsome minor pain as a means of be-havior modification. I suppose if i tgets the l i t t le brats off the roof , Icould live with it .

I ask again, where are the par-ents? Mine knew where I was and,even if I did lie, which never faredwell with the James Bond-style tac-tics that my parents displayed dur-ing my adolescence, they wouldconstant ly check up on me so if Iwasn’t where I said I was going tobe, they always found out . Butthese children had parents cut froma different cloth, because their re-sponse was, “I can’t watch themevery minute, can I?” I suppose not.But what you can do is inst i l l inthem a sense of r ight and wrong,and a healthy fear of consequencesfor the latter. In the meantime, I amgoing to lay down industr ia ls trength glue al l over the complexroof , the kind that dissolves shoeleather and will adhere the soles oftheir feet direct ly to the shinglesand secure them in place for an in-determinate amount of t ime. Atleast then the parents wil l knowwhere they are at al l hours of theday.

GEN WHY cont. from P. 10

Donate your unwanted car by Dec. 31to Cars4Charities and you will get a year-end tax deduction of at least $500 on youritemized federal taxes. You’ll also helpone of hundreds of respected charities atthe same time. Cars4Charities will handlethe entire donation process, from start tofinish. They’ll turn your unwanted vehicleinto cash and send the entire net proceedsto the charity you select from their im-pressive list. The process is effortless. You

can even donate your car online atwww.cars4charities.org.

Your vehicle does not have to run orbe in good condition and it will be pickedup in a matter of days, free of charge.Cars4Charities will provide you with allthe paperwork you’ll need. To claim your2011 deduction, your title must be signedand postmarked by Dec. 31, 2011. For de-tails, please visit www.cars4charities.orgor call 1-866-448-3487 (GIVE-4-US).

Start the New Year off with good gar-dening practices in a workshop or at a gar-den advice session offered by MaderaCounty Master Gardeners.

Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, 10 a.m. -noon: “Citrus Trees: Winter Care,”hosted by Master Gardener Peg Coffin.This workshop will be held at MaderaCommunity College Center, Three SistersDemonstration Garden (Rain location:Room R3A), 30277Avenue 12 just west ofthe Madera Ranchos. This free workshopincludes handouts. There is no charge to thepublic and parking is free. Reservations are

requested: 559-675-7879, extension 210, [email protected].

Saturday, Jan. 21, 2011, 10 a.m. - 2p.m.: “GardenAdvice – Bare Root Plant-ing and Care,” hosted by Master GardenerKathy Eisele. A table staffed by MasterGardeners will be available in the GardenShop at Lowe’s, 2100 E. Cleveland,Madera. Bring your gardening questionsand problems and get free, expert advice.Questions? Call 559 675-7879, extension210, or write [email protected].

Visit the Madera Master Gardenerwebsite at cemadera.ucdavis.edu/.

Donate Your Car for Deductions

Master Gardener Events for 2012


Page 12

www.theRanchos.com

WE’RE ON THE WEB!Visit the Ranchos’ own Website.

Get fully downloadable back issues ofthe Ranchos Independent

(beginning with April 2006).Learn how you can add your

Ranchos-area business to this site!12/1

1

www.theRanchos.com

www.theRanchos.comwww.theRanchos.com



12/11

“The only way to getfresher produce would beto pick it yourself.” ™

GET YOUR FREE ONION!Just for visiting Sweet Flower Fruit Standwe’d liketo give you a FREE onion to say “thanks” and togive you an example M just how good our produceis. One per customer per day. Exp. 1-31-12

12/1

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Say you saw it inthe Ranchos Independent

Until he changes his mind, the Pas-tor’s Desk will be written by Mike Bai-ley and is being renamed “Progress notPerfection.” He is not a pastor but hehas a message. With approximately 17.6million American adults who abuse al-cohol or are alcohol dependent, hismessage is timely and relevant.

Editor

By Mike Bailey

Over the past three years I havelearned an extraordinary amount. Thebest thing I have learned was how lit-tle I actually knew. I was always thesmart aleck, the one with the wise-crack, the comeback, the one whothought that everyone should hear myopinion.

Now, my char-acter defect is stillpresent, but, I’velearned to hold mythoughts for acouple secondsand give thoughtto what is about tobe said. I’m notperfect and I havemy moments, re-member it’s“Progress, notPerfection.” I al-ways wanted peo-ple to like mebecause I wassmart. People re-ally don’t likesmart people. It isperceived as arro-gant and cocky,for good reason.Now I listen andactually hear what people are saying.I stand back and realize I’m not thesmart one, I do not have all the an-swers, I’m not the one who can fixpeople. People sometimes just needto be heard, and comforted. I am notthe one who can solve their problems,I can’t even solve mine. All I some-times really need to do is be aFRIEND. I have learned so much andrealize that I have not even scratchedthe surface of the wisdom ofCHRIST. King Solomon tells us thatthe beginning of true wisdom is foundonly when you are humbled to thefact that you realize you still need tolearn and grow every day.

The True Meaning of ChristmasOne other thing I have learned is the

true meaning of Christmas. This year all Iwanted for Christmas was a Christmastree. Seriously, that is all I wanted. Yousee, if I have a tree, I have a place to put it.If I have a place to put it, then I have aplace for my boys. If I have a place for myboys, then I have a job. If I have a job, thenI can take care of my kids, then that meansI am an asset to society. Not a burden toanyone, anymore. That is gift enough forme, just being normal. I understand that itis not about what I get, or what I get you.It is about the small things, just being withfamily, friends and loved ones because younever know if this will be your last Christ-mas or their last Christmas.

I am going to out myself, my name isMike Bailey and I’m an Alcoholic. The

reason I am doingthis is because whatI am about to saywill probably outme anyway.

On Dec. 18,2002 I lost myUncle Joe to cancer.Ten days later, the28th of December,my sister Sheila, atthe ripe old age of40, died of a heartattack. Last Marchwe buried the dear-est, sweetest woman– the woman whotruly was “every-body’s mother,” myAunt Faye. On De-cember 7 of thisyear I lost my AuntIrene (Uncle Joe’swife) to heart com-

plications. We buried her on Dec. 12. Nowget this: on Thursday, Dec. 15, AuntIrene’s youngest daughter, Pam Bailey,had a brain hemorrhage and died at 8 p.m.that evening. This is someone that justthree days earlier I shed tears with, brokebread with and comforted her with thehope of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.And, like that, she is gone. You neverknow what tomorrow brings, or if therewill be a tomorrow for any of us.

Give yourself the best Christmasever; really know what it is truly allabout. Learn John 14:6; commit it toyour heart, mind, body, soul and life!

Merry Christmas!.

Progress not Perfection

The Best Christmas Gift Ever

Now I listen and actuallyhear what people are saying.I stand back and realize I’mnot the smart one, I do nothave all the answers, I’m notthe one who can fix people.People sometimes just need tobe heard, and comforted. I amnot the one who can solvetheir problems, I can’t evensolve mine. All I sometimesreally need to do is be aFRIEND. I have learned somuch and realize that I havenot even scratched the surfaceof the wisdom of CHRIST.

Page 13

www.The Ranchos.com

12/11

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As we approach the New Year, a goodquestion to ask yourself is: “What’s on myplate?” Don’t worry; I’m not talking aboutdieting and counting calories. Although,come to think of it there are some really goodcomparisons between filling our food platesand filling our schedules.

When you overfill your plate you’relikely to end up feeling lethargic, unproduc-tive, and maybe even a little sick. (Does thatbring back any holiday dinner memories?)Over-filling your schedule can do the same

What’s on Your Plate?

thing.We get drained by a surplus of activity;worn out by a non-stop schedule.Wepush andpush until our bodies say, “Enough!”Our im-mune systems are compromised and we endup sick.

Sometimeswhen there are somany goodfoods to choose from our “eyes are biggerthan our stomachs” andwe just can’t eat it all.Likewise we often say yes to more than ourschedules can hold and that’swhen things fallthrough the cracks. We simply can’t followthrough with all we commit to.

Worst of all is when we don’t regulatewhat’s on our dinner plate and end up notbeing able to squeeze in dessert! (I admit it;I’m a big dessert fan.) When we don’t planahead our schedules fill up andwe’re likely toneglect some of the sweet and most valuablethings in life.

So how do we alter this lifestyle? Beginwith identifying your life values. List the fouror five things that are your top priorities in life.Those become the plumb-line from which togauge what stays, what goes, and perhapswhat needs to be added to your schedule.

Rather than being a victim of the wishes

and demands of others on your time, be in-tentional aboutwhat you choose to do and notdo. Based on the priorities you’ve identified,outline specific goals that will give you focusand direction. Follow up goal-setting withspecific steps of action that will enable you tosee your values lived out in your dailylifestyle.

For instance, say building a strong fam-ily is one of your values. A goal might be tospend more time together. A step of actionmight be to have dinner together “X” numberof times per week.

Once you’ve established your plan, giveyourself permission to set boundaries forthings that would interfere with that plan. Ifyour committee is having a late afternoonmeeting, let them know you have a commit-ment and need to leave by 5:30.

Another goal for your family valuemightbe to have your home a place of comfort andrefuge for family members. A step of actionmight be to clear the clutter and make it aplace the family enjoys coming home to.Youmight be thinking, “I just don’t have time toget it that way and keep it that way!”

In their bookOrganizing for theCreativePerson, Dorothy Lehmkuhl andDelores Cot-ter Lamping say, “‘I don’t have time’is an ex-cuse; ‘That isn’t the best use of my time now’represents a conscious decision. When yousay, ‘I don’t have time to cleanmy desk everyday,’think about this: If someonewere to giveyou $1,000 every single day you cleared offyour desk, would you find time to do it? Weall would!”

Thegoalhere is tomakeconsciouschoicesabout how we use our time and for thosechoices to enhance rather than inhibit what wevalue most. This will take some time for plan-ning and determination to follow through, butthe results will be a life worth living.

Wishing you and yours a very MerryChristmas and a joyous NewYear!

You can contact Brenda McElroy to havequestions answered at Organized by Choice (be-cause things don’t always fall into place) at P.O.Box 26152, Fresno, CA 93729, email her [email protected], visit her websitewww.organizedbychoice.com or she can bereachedbyphoneat559-871-3314.


Page 14

12/11

Senior Report

A Brief History of Christmas, Courtesy of the Ranchos/Hills Senior CenterBy Verlaine Elinburg

Christmas has been celebrated on De-cember 25 since 336A.D.The tradition startedas a Christian holiday honoring the birth ofJesus and has evolved into an internationalholiday that embodies family togetherness andgood cheer.

While some still regard Christmas solelyas a religious holiday, Christmas has become,for many, a day to celebrate family and bemerry. In the spirit of holiday cheer, many ob-serve the traditions of Santa Claus, mistletoe,Christmas trees andChristmas cards describedbelow.

The tradition of Christmas trees wasstarted in 16th century Germany. MartinLuther, a German theologian, is thought tohave popularized the concept.On a brisk, clearChristmas Eve, Luther was walking homeunder a bright, starry sky, which was so beau-tiful that he wanted to recreate its beauty forhis children. His idea was to decorate a largeevergreen with glowing candles, a customwestill honor today in more modern forms.

And last, but not least, theChristmas card,probably themost popularway to express hol-iday sentiments, was started in England in1843. The first Christmas card was printed in

the United States in 1875 by Louis Prang, aMassachusetts printer. By running nationwidecontests for the best Christmas designs, Pranghelped launchChristmas cards into amultibil-lion dollar industry.

Another Trip in the WorksThe year has not ended and the Ran-

chos/Hills Seniors are looking forward to theirvacation, the 11-daySouthern Journey:His-tory and Beauty of theLegendary South. At-lanta, historic sites, andthe Rev. Martin LutherKing and MargaretMitchell House andMuseums. From Co-lumbia to MyrtleBeach, with drivesfrom lakes and black-water rivers to the 60-mile-long GrandStrand at MyrtleBeach. Georgetown and Charleston; the fa-mous Brookgreen Gardens; going backthrough history to our first permanent settlersof 1700, including the magnolia plantationsand gardenswhichwere founded in 1676. Sa-

vannah, with its cobblestone streets and ele-gant homes and gardens; the firstAfricanBap-tist Church and the oldest African-AmericanChurch in the United States which played animportant part in the Underground Railroad.Jekyll Island's, theHistoricDistrict, a cluster of19th-centurymansions… the list goes on andon. The Trip is set for May 9 – 19, 2012. Foradditional attractions and information on the

11-Day Southern Jour-ney stop at the SeniorCenter and obtain aflyer, or call 645-4864for additional informa-tion.

Regular ItemsThe Department

of health comes period-ically to the center forfree checkups. Thescreenings include:Personal health historyreview, blood pressure

and blood sugar test, nutrition and health edu-cation and a low-cost blood test is available.The health screenings are for 50 and above andfor referrals tomedical providers and commu-nity services the contact number is 675-7893

to make an appointment.Anutritionally balanced lunch program is

available Monday through Friday at 11:30a.m. and a suggested price for 60 years andolder is $1.75. Reservations are needed 24hours in advance prior to 11:00 AM – so re-member to call Joann at 645-4864.

We have a growing exercise programbeing held onMondays,Wednesdays and Fri-days at 10 a.m. The participants are gettingmore than just exercise by attending. Theyhave fun, share laughs and meet new friendsand get updates on their fellow members andget current news and updates on what is hap-pening at the Center. There is room for youand you may attend all three days or just oneor two of them.New to the agenda isTuesdaysat 12:30 p.m. with a variety of cards games tobe enjoyed. Come and learn some newgames.

Check your calendar for daily events foreach day of the week. If you do not have acopy of the newsletter, stop by the SeniorCenter for a copy or find additional copies atthe Ranchos Market, Hurst Hardware and atmany of the businesses on Avenue 12. TheFarmers Market at the center has a variety ofvegetables and fruits, jams and jellies areavailable and the Boutique has many “on thespot” gift items.

The itinererary for the next Ranchos/HillsSeniors’ trip to the historic south.

www.The Ranchos.com

Page 15

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serving dishes. Chill for at least 30minutes before serving. Each servingis 97 calories, 16.2 g. carbs, and 6.1g. sugars.

Knowing how much I like anydessert made with lemon, this one isfor lemon bars.

Old Fashioned Lemon BarsCrust:1/3 C Splenda granulated Sweet-

ener½ C whole wheat flour½ C white all-purpose flour¼ tsp. baking powder4 T margarine, hard or cold but-

ter2 T buttermilk¼ tsp. saltTopping:2 tsp. powdered sugar, optional2 large eggs1 egg white3 T white all-purpose flour½ C Splenda sugar blend for

baking, or ½ C EACH Splenda gran-ular and granulated sugar2/3 C fresh lemon juice1/3 C low fat buttermilk1 T fresh grated lemon peelDIRECTIONS:

CRUST: Preheat oven to 375 de-grees. Spray an 8-inch square bakingpan with nonstick baking spray. In amedium bowl, mix together flours,Splenda, salt and baking powder. Cutin margarine (or butter) until mixtureresembles coarse crumbs. Sprinklebuttermilk over mix and blend. Pressonto the bottom of the prepared pan.Chill for 15 minutes and then bake for15-20 minutes or until lightlybrowned.

TOPPING: While crust is baking,prepare topping. In a large bowl, beateggs and egg white with 3 T flour and½ C of Splenda or Splenda/sugar blend.Beat in 1/3 C buttermilk, lemon juiceand zest. Pour into hot crust. Turn ovendown to 350 and bake bars an addi-tional 18-20 minutes or until top is set.Cool completely. Just prior to serving,dust with powdered sugar if desired.Cut into 16 bars. 107 calories, 15 g.carbs and 3.8 g. sugar for each bar.

There you have it – three recipesthat should let you have dessert andnot destroy your sugar count. I sin-cerely hope you are able to keepyour glucose under control becausewe all know what can happen to youif it gets out of control.Good luck!

RECIPE cont. from P. 8


Page 16

GVUSD Calendar

District wideDec. 19-Jan. 7 - No school- Winter breakJan. 16- No schoolJan. 17- Board meeting

Sierra View ElementaryJan. 19- Parent Club meetingJan. 28- Coffee with principal ImperatriceJan. 31- 100 Days of School CelebrationFeb. 2- Spelling Bee

Liberty High SchoolJan. 18- Principal’s Round TableJan. 19-26- 2012/2013 registration

presentationsJan. 30- Parent FASFAworkshopJan. 31- NSL Talent ShowFeb. 3- Rally- Movie Night Awards

By The LHS Hawk Talk Staff

LibertyHigh School’sWinter Formal, hosted by the sophomore class,was held on Saturday, Dec. 4. with the theme “Tis the Season” providingthe backdrop for a night of dancing and fun at Holland ParkWest, locatedin northwest Fresno. Liberty students arrived to a holiday themed danceablaze with shades of red and sparkling ornaments and decorations.

In order to add something a little extra this year, the sophomore classhosted a full hot chocolate bar, complete with chocolate-dipped stirringspoons, a plethora of flavoredmarshmallows andmore toppings than onecould ever need. The cold temperatures on formal night made the hotchocolate bar the hit of the night and was visibly appreciated by LibertyHigh students and the staff members who were present.

The majority of the formal attendees had the opportunity to go todinner with their dates before the dance and then were greeted uponarrival at Holland Park West to good music and plenty of picture tak-ing. They then got to hang out with friends and dance the rest of the

Junior Jordan Nehring doesn’t need to be on the dance floor to diphis date, Amy Chavira, at the Liberty High School Winter Formal.

Sierra View running back Junior Rodriguez (center) eludes Web-ster defenders in a 35-24 flag football loss on Dec. 2.

Webster running back Angel Leon (with ball at right) turns the cor-ner against Sierra View in a 35-24 victory on Dec. 2.

Sierra View volleyballer Paige Peterson (center) returns a hit from the frontrow in an 18-21, 21-18, 15-10 victory over Webster on Dec. 2.

Webster volleyball player Sabrina Folsom (center) returns a hitagainst Sierra View. Sierra View defeated Webster 2-1 on Dec. 2.

Sierra View andWebster Elementary get Competitive

Olivia Neal (left) and Cirephina Dalisaydon’t let sore feet ruin their fun! Instead, theykick their shoes off and dance the night away

evening away.Winter formal was well-attended

this year, and almost every studentstayed until the end. All proceeds wentto the sophomores to help with theirvarious class expenses and next year’sprom.

Libert High SchoolWinter Formal Proves ‘Tis the Season … for Dancing!

Page 17

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RanchosMiddle School actors rehearse some scenes from their production of "Peril at thePole 2."

RMS Presents Peril at the Pole, 2

A38-year-old Madera woman sits be-hind bars facing embezzlement charges,accused of stealing student fundraisingmoney.

Victoria MaciasPerez, employed as anAd-ministrative Assistant atEastin-Arcola HighSchool, located onAvenue8 in Madera County, facestwo counts of felony em-bezzlement. She’s accusedof stealing nearly $3,000from an account that holdsfunds raised by the contin-uation students.

According to Reports,Deputy Sheriff RobertBlehm was dispatched tothe high school late Fridaymorning, Dec. 2. Theschool discovered a dis-crepancy in the account.

$690 appeared to be missing. Perez, whohandles deposits and withdrawals, wasquestioned and she reportedly admitted towriting a check to herself in that amount

back in September, butclaimed she had every in-tention of paying it back.

However, she’s alsoaccused of stealing $2,000last May as well. It’s al-leged that she managed toreplenish the account withproceeds she made fromthe sale of a vehicle… andjustifying the discrepancyas a miss accounting offunds.

Perez was taken intocustody and transported toMadera County Depart-ment of Corrections whereshe remains behind barswith bail set at $10,000.

Victoria Macias Perez, 38,has been accused in two countsof felony embezzlement of steal-ing nearly $3,000 from an ac-count that holds funds raised bystudents at the school where sheworks.

Madera County School EmployeeAccused of Stealing from Students

On Monday, Dec. 19, Bruce Arm-strong was sentenced to a lengthy termin state prison according to Michael R.Keitz, District Attorney for MaderaCounty.

Armstrong, 34, of Madera, was con-victed by a Madera County superiorcourt jury earlier this year on April 14for two separate actions which occurredin 2008. During his first assault, Arm-strong entered his wife’s workplacewhere he choked and threatened her.Three days later, Armstrong and his wifequarreled when he commenced strikingher in the head with a hammer in frontof his children. His assault was thwarted

by his twelve year old daughter, whosecourageous actions distracted him longenough to allow her mother to escape toa neighbor’s residence.

Following the trial, Armstrong’s at-torney, Steven Geringer, brought a mo-tion to have the case reheard. The motionwas addressed yesterday and denied byJudge David Miner. Miner then sen-tenced Armstrong to 29 years and 4months in state prison for his two sepa-rate actions.

According to District AttorneyKeitz, “Events of domestic violence un-dermine the fabric of family life and oursociety. The District Attorney’s Officetakes domestic violence seriously. Thiswas a very tragic case.”

This case was prosecuted by DeputyDistrict Attorney Mary Thornton.

Victim’s Daughter, 12,Saves Mom’s Life

MaderaMan HammersWife’s HeadReceives Lengthy Prison Sentence


Page 18

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Ranchos gets a “Mayor”/May • As part of a promotion among Ran-chos-area charitable organizations, Tom Hurst of Hurst Hardware was “elected”the honorary mayor of the Madera Ranchos after a hard-fought election where

all the “votes” were bought through donations. At the end of the day, 75 cents of everydollar raised went to specific charities and the remaining quarter went to the RanchosKiwanis who put on the whole event. Hail to the chief!

North Fork Casino Moves Forward/September • After roadblockafter roadblock was put in their way, the North Fork Rancheria finally got a fa-vorable determination from the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs saying

that gaming on the proposed site would be in the best interest of the Tribe and notdetrimental to the surrounding community. Money, jobs and fun for the area.

Superintendent Koligian Quits/May • After building Golden ValleyUnified up to be the premier school district in Madera County with test scoresand proficiencies rivalling Clovis schools, heat was coming from a newly

elected school board and it appeared that Koligian thought that this was the best timeto get out of the kitchen. She went to Tulare and Andy Alvarado moved into her spot.

“Sinkhole”/January • Everyone knows that for the most part the Ranchosis hot and dry, but not last winter. There was water everywhere and it was put-ting a lot of area infrastructure to the test. Unfortunately, Road 36 between Av-

enue 9 and 10 failed that test when an 80-year-old irrigation pipe system beneath theroad gave out and created a huge sinkhole. The County had it fixed within two weeks.

Medicinal Marijuana in the Ranchos/November • California hadpassed a law stating the marijuana for medicinal purposes was OK, but it wasup to the individual counties to decide if they wanted it or not. Madera County

had decided it didn’t want it, yet here was a very friendly little shop on Highway 41 atAvenue 15 that hadn’t got the memo. After the story ran the shop disappeared.

about what to do in the event you be-come separated.

Always have your keys in yourhand when returning to your vehicle.

Protecting you from online scams:Beware of high-tech scams such as

phony e-card greetings. If you receivean e-mail card and are advised todownload the latest software to view it,don't do it. You may be giving someonecomplete access to your computer.

Phony lottery or sweepstakes no-tices that you're a winner. You get an e-mail or phone message suggesting youvisit a website or return the call to col-lect your prize. Don't respond. Deletethe message.

Phony sales found online. Whetherit's eBay, Craigslist or any other venue,do your homework and find out if thecompany hosting these ads is legiti-mate.

Protecting your home:Create open lines of communica-

tions with neighbors and businesseswithin your immediate area.

Take outgoing mail and packagesto the post office or courier. Whenaway at the holidays, request that thepost office hold your mail delivery andask your neighbors to retrieve and hold

packages that may be delivered to yourhome.

Consider installing motion-detec-tor lights around the outside of yourhome. Light timers also help if you'reaway and when home. Lights often pro-vide a deterrent, keeping would-bethieves at bay.

When at home or away, alwaysdraw your shades to keep outsidersfrom looking in and previewing whatand who's inside.

Keep windows and doors locked atall times. If you need to leave an extrakey, don't leave it in a flower pot orunder the mat – leave it with a neigh-bor you know you can reach.

Secure all doors with quality dead-bolts and add bolts such as a deadlatchto all windows and sliding glass doors.

Vehicles stored in the garageshould be locked at all times. Don’tever keep those keys in plain view.

Motion detectors can also serve asa deterrent. Set up timers to run at ran-dom inside your home which will theimpression that someone is home.

If you go on vacation, Citizens onPatrol conducts house checks. If youcan't reach a neighbor, call the Sher-iff's Department, but also let neigh-bors know if and when you may begone. If a strange vehicle is seen inyour driveway, neighbors will know tocall 911.

VICTIM cont. from P. 3

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By Christopher Green

Conservatives, as the name implies,tend to be people who wish to conserve thevalues and institutionswhich havemade ournation the greatest in the history of theworld. The world “conservative” also sug-gests a certain resistance to change. The no-tion that conservatives are all about resistingchange has been exploited by liberals to castconservatives as implacable defenders of thefilthy rich class and heartless exploiters ofthe poor.

Conservatives and libertariansmust beaware of the power of phrasing ourmessagein a positive way aswemove forward inour efforts to reformour broken govern-ment fiscal system.Obama and most ofhis fellow progres-sives are once againframing the fiscaldebate as a choicebetween preservingthe social safety netand increasing taxeson the rich.We con-servatives and liber-tarians have for the most part played intothe hands of progressives by not challeng-ing their semantics. This must stop now!

There is ample evidence that high taxrates actually depress tax revenues. Wemust stop implicitly ceding to the liberalsthe faulty premise that increasing tax rateswill increase revenues. The Tea Party andits allies should rather turn the words of theprogressives to their own advantage. Wemust always talk about a two-track ap-proach to finally restoring a dynamic na-tional economy. These two equallyimportant tracks are: increasing govern-ment revenue by lowering the tax rate andsimplifying the tax system; and controllingspending, which must include entitlementreform.

Every time thatObama says increasingtaxes needs to be part of the solution to thebudget problem, SpeakerBoehner should besaying, “I couldn’t agree with the Presidentmore completely. We do need to increaserevenues to the treasury including revenuefrom the richestAmericans, and theway that

history has proven time and again that rev-enues can be increased over the long term isto lower tax rates.”

Let us take the pledge as members oftheTea Party to remember that whenever inour daily lives we hear an acquaintance or aco-worker say, “We need to increase taxesto solve our fiscal problem,” we shouldnever respond, “No, I disagree with in-creasing taxes.”We should rather say, “Yes,I agree with you. We need to raise taxes.Let’s raisemore tax revenue in a sustainableway as we grow the number of private sec-tor jobs and the GDP by lowering the taxrates and reforming our tax system.”

Madera Chapter Tea Party MeetingsThe Dec. 15 meeting presented guest

speaker FrankBigelow,MaderaCounty Su-pervisorDistrict I, and candidate for assem-bly. Clint Olivier was also introduced and isrunning for congress against Jim Costa.

If you haven't already, please take thetime to join us. Wewould appreciateyour presence in al-lowing you the op-portunity to discusscurrent issues andideas or to just lis-ten. Thesemeetingsare educational sowe can proceedwell-equipped withthe facts, not withthe many untruthsthat are consistentlyspread throughout

the mainstreammedia.Most all of the Madera Chapter meet-

ings are held on the third Thursday of eachmonth from 6 - 8 pm at Di Cicco's, 516South I Street in Madera. The next sched-uled meeting is Jan. 19. Should there be achange in scheduling, please confirmmeet-ing dates or guest speakers on the CentralValley Tea Party website at www.central-valleyteaparty.com and select the events tabon the bluemenu bar then scroll to find yourarea's chapter for current scheduling ofmeetings, including speakers and topics ofdiscussion.

For more information contact MaderaRanchosTeaPartyCoordinator, JohnSmed-ley, by e-mail at [email protected], orcall 559-645-7031. You may also contactMadera Tea Party Coordinator, RickFarinelli, by e-mail at [email protected] or call 559-706-5386.

Happy New Year! Let’s pray 2012 isthe year in history that America was savedfrom its current path of serious decline.Yes,we CAN save her.

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We must always talk about a two-track approach to finally restoring adynamic national economy. Thesetwo equally important tracks are: in-creasing government revenue bylowering the tax rate and simplifyingthe tax system; and controllingspending, which must include enti-tlement reform.


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Business Profile

Books and Coffee? Count Me In!By Christi McKinney

Laura’s Used Books and Coffee is theRanchos’ newest business, located at 36919Ave. 12 and Laura Lemanek is the proudowner.

But why a coffee shop and used book-store?

“Books have always been important tome,” said Lemanek, a newly retired veteranwho just recently returned from combatzones in both Iraq and Afghanistan. “In thecombat zone we werelucky to have 15 to 20minutes a day to relax.I always looked for-ward to spending mytime relaxing with agood book.”

The shop has avery homey atmos-phere. Much of thestore feels as if you’vejust walked into some-one’s home. There areseveral bookcases full of used books thathave been donated by the community, a sofa,chairs and a dining room table. There is alsoa large children’s room with tables, booksand games. They also have card tables forplaying cards or board games and outside ta-bles if you want to enjoy the sunshine. An-other part of the shop has bistro tables andstools for peoplewhowant to just grab a cof-fee and pastry.

Lemanek, a Ranchos resident since1999 said, “I wanted to create a safe, quietplace for people to go who want to slowdown for a little while to enjoy a cup of cof-fee, browse through the used books or to justvisit for a while.” The shop will soon haveWi-Fi service if you need a reliable place to

connect to the internet.Laura’sUsedBooks andCoffee opened

on Dec. 1 and plans to be open Tuesdaysthrough Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. andwill be closed on Sundays and Mondays.Laura’s Used Books and Coffee is proud tofeature Fabiano’s Coffee, a company whichis also located in the Ranchos. They will beserving both regular and decaffeinated cof-fee along with a flavor of the day, as well asa variety of teas and bottled drinks.

Laurawill be running the new shopwithhelp from her mother“Mac” Castelletto, alsoa long-time Ranchosresident. Mac is a veryproud mother who ex-plains thatmilitary serv-ice has been a huge partof her family for severalgenerations. Before herhusband’s passing, hewas a retired militaryveteran who alsoworked for the Fresno

Police Department after retiring.Mac has sixchildren, three of whom are career military.Laura has three sons, twoofwhomare also inthe military. Laura has lots of interesting sto-ries about her time in the service and sheproudly displays flags that have been flownboth in Iraq andAfghanistan.

In the near future, Laura’s Used BooksandCoffee plans on hosting book clubs, cardgames or needlepoint groups. If you are in-terested in any of these activities or in donat-ing books please stop by and let them knowor drop a suggestion on Laura’s Used Booksand Coffee Facebook page. Laura also en-courages people to “Like” the new businesson their Facebook page.

What’s not to like?

A happy customer gets a hot cup ofcoffee from Laura’s before he heads overto the bookcase.

dra Kay Williamson (DOB 6-13-1945),wife of James and Judith Leslie Soley ofFresno (DOB 7-14-1945).

At approximately 1:06 p.m. deputieswere dispatched to Ducey’s on the Lake, lo-cated at 39255 Road 432 in Bass Lake, re-garding a possible shooting. Twowomen hadleft the restaurant when confronted by a manwho began to beat one woman, identified asSoley, then shot her. He was then seen run-ning after the second woman who fled andran back inside the restaurant where he shother near the kitchen of the establishment.

3. December 18, 2011 – Man sus-pected of attempted murder killed – A

mountain man under investigation for at-tempted murder died from gunshot wounds.According to reports, Deputies believe 53-year-old Danny Henley of Oakhurst, just re-leased from jail on Dec. 16, went to thehome of a man at Snowline Court inOakhurst with the intent to shoot him. Hen-ley reportedly broke into the victim’s shed,took a shotgun, confronted the victim, andshot at him. The victim fired back, hittingHenley and killing him. The shooting wasNOT random said Sheriff Anderson. Thetwo men knew each other. An autopsy con-ducted on Tuesday, Dec. 20 showed Hen-ley died from gunshot wounds and thekilling is being ruled by the Sheriff’s De-partment as justifiable homicide.

BODY cont. from P. 2

Page 20

ment called onK9DeputyTysonPogue’s part-ner Zak to nose around themoney and let themknow if any of it smelled of dope.

To test the dog’s skills and to do this right,Zak was deployed in a room where threecrates were stored. One box had the seizedcurrency, a second box had money from abank and the third box was empty.

Zak quickly zeroed in on box numberone.

In yet another case, Zak was deployedduring a traffic stop nearAhwahnee andwithina few short minutes began circling the car andimmediately alerted the Deputy to one of thedoors.When deputies asked the driver if therewas anything illegal in the car he first said,“There shouldn’t be anything.” But when ad-vised that the dog just alerted, the driver ad-mitted there was marijuana. Then K9 Zakbegan searching inside the car and this timestarted scratching one of the seats.Askedwhatwas hidden beneath, the driver again said,“There shouldn’t be anything.” But there wassomething – K9 Zak had found meth.

By nature Springers are curious, playfuland, above all, determined. They never give

up and rarely know when to stop. What Zakmay have lacked in size he surelymade up forin spirit and spunk.

But there comes a point as we age – dogsare no exception –when it’s time to take stock.Zak is nearing his 14th birthday and with agecomes joint problems.Watching Zak struggleat times to jump in and out of a patrol carwerethe immediate signs. Sergeant Pogue steppedin and routinely lifted Zak in and out of the carto spare his partner additional pain.

Once deployed, Zak was no match foranyone, but there finally came a point whenSergeantPoguehad to askhimself, “AmIbeingfair?”Because even though thewill is still verymuch there, the hips are no longer as eager.

The decision to end Zak’s career wasn’teasy but one that needed tomade and the onlyman to do it would be his decade-long partner,Sergeant Tyson Pogue.

So what’s a Deputy to do with a dogwhose heart is about as big as the county hehas served? Only one thing to do: Keep himof course. Rest assured, Zak won’t be bored;Sergeant Pogue’s children will make sure ofthat.

Madera County Sheriff’s K9 Zak offi-cially retires Jan. 1, 2012.

K9 ZAK cont. from P. 2

www.The Ranchos.com

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Christmas Time for 4-H

The Sierra Shadows 4-H club wasvery busy this past month. There are cur-rently 18 projects being offered this yearto the members of the Sierra Shadows 4-HClub. A few of those projects had a meet-ing this past month.

The swine project had a meeting andwe learned what items we would need tohave in order to show a pig at the Chow-chilla and Madera County Fairs. We alsodiscussed the conformation of a pig. Wediscussed what our next meeting will be

about and the swine project leader is plan-ning some very interesting field trips.

The rabbit project held its monthlymeeting where the leader introduced"showmanship" to the new members bywatching a CD of showmanship. Theywere then able to practice their showman-ship routine on their rabbits. The rabbitproject members are getting ready forSmall Animal Expo.

The woodworking project held itsmonthly meeting and the leader talkedabout safety and let the members knowwhat projects they will be working on thisyear.

The outdoor project held its monthlymeeting and came up with some very in-teresting things to do this year. The groupplanned its first field trip and is excitedabout this outing.

The public speaking project also heldits monthly meeting and talked about whattype of presentation they will be doing.They have some great presentations lined

up. We will be having six members attend-ing Madera County 4-H Presentation Daythis year.

The cooking project met and madehomemade chicken noodle soup, garliccheese biscuits and, for dessert, they madean apple dump cake and a cherry/pineappledump cake. They then had the pleasure ofeating their own cooking.

The dog project meeting was held andthey discussed dog obedience and show-manship since they will be learning boththis year. They are also starting to practicefor the small animal expo.

The food preservation project was heldand members learned how to make applebutter. They also learned how to make anorange and clove pomander. They pickedpomegranates for their next meeting, wherethey will make pomegranate jelly.

The floriculture project met and madebeautiful floral arrangements. They alsowent over many different flower identifi-cations.

The Sierra Shadows 4-H Club held itsannual Christmas party on Dec. 13 at theSierra View Elementary School cafeteria.At the party members participated in an or-nament gift exchange, collecting Toys forTots and enjoying a pot-luck dinner. In ad-dition, we donated 20 blankets to a RonaldMcDonald House representative.

Some members are gearing up to at-tend LCORT (Leadership Conference ofRegional Teens) which will be held fromJan. 27 - 29, 2012 at the Wonder ValleyRanch in Sanger, which is open to mem-bers who are in 7th, 8th and 9th grade.

Youth between the ages of 9 to 18years old may join 4-H. The Sierra Shad-ows 4-H Club leader is Terri Fernandezwho can be reached at 559-645-4836 or [email protected]. The next clubmeeting will be held at the Sierra View El-ementary School cafeteria on Jan. 10, 2012at 7 p.m. Hope to see you there.

Happy Holidays from the SierraShadows 4-H Club.

645-0634 • fax 645-4002 • [email protected] IndependentThe

ClassifiedPage 22

A l t e r a t i o n S e r v i c e s

M a d l i n ' s A l t e r a t i o n s - 4 0y e a r s e x p e r i e n c e - Ta i l o r i n g ,r e p a i r s a n d l e a t h e r s . F a s ts e r v i c e . NEW ADDRE S S &PHONE NUMBER : 3 6 7 3 3Av e . 1 2 . C a l l 5 5 9 - 6 4 5 - 4 5 8 3 .

F l o o r / U p h o l s t e r y C a r e

P i n n a c l e C a r p e t C a r e a n dU p h o l s t e r y - FREE e s t i m a t e s .F R E E s t a i n p r o t e c t i o n w i t ha n y p u r c h a s e . T i l e , a g g r e -g a t e , s h o w e r s , P e b b l e Te c .G o l d e n Va l l e y C h am b e r M em -b e r , B B B , r e f e r e n c e s . C a l lB r u c e a t 6 7 6 - 0 7 6 0 .

F o r S a l e

F o r S a l e - R em i n g t o n H o r s eS t a t u e , "M o u n t a i n M a n " 9 ' x 9 'B r o n z e $ 3 , 0 0 0 . R e m i n g t o n" C om i n g T h r o u g h t h e Ry e "3 ' x 3 0 " B r o n z e , $ 2 , 2 0 0 . C r y s -t a l C h a n d e l i e r s . CALL FORINFO 6 4 5 - 1 7 7 0 .

F o r S a l e - P o r t a b l e B a s k e t -b a l l B a c k b o a r d - S p a l d i n gp o l y c a r b o n i t e b a c k b o a r d w i t ha l l t h e f e a t u r e s . B o u g h t t h i sn e w o n e y e a r a g o f o r $ 2 5 0 ,

h u r t m y k n e e a n d h a v e n ’ t u s e di t s i n c e . F i r s t $ 1 5 0 t a k e s i t .C a l l ( c e l l ) 9 0 5 - 8 3 11 .

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Bobcat Work - Drilling Post Holes -Trees - Trenching - Clean Up. TractorWork - Discing - Rototilling - Mowing -Scraping - Stump Grinding - Roll OffBox. Call Neal at 645-1200 or 285-8211.

Wanted

WILL PAY TOP DOLLAR FORCARS, TRUCKS, RVs, AND TRAIL-ERS!!! CALL 559-375-3432.

WindowCleaning Services

Most windows $5 inside/out. Screen,track and sills included. Remove hardwater stain on home windows, showerdoors and car windows. Cobweb removalavailable.Fully insured.CallNickat285-1723.Free estimates. SENIOR DISCOUNT!

SUDOKU

©2011 King Features Syndicates, Inc.


... Don’t Drink and Drive!Remember to Call a Cab or Designate a Driver!

Remember ... If You’re Going to Do This ...

Wishes You the

Safest and Happy Holiday Possible!

HAPPY HOLIDAYSPISTORESI

AMBULANCE

12/1

1

PISTORESI

Real EstateNancy Watson645-5000

The Ranchos Specialist, Working for “You”

www.nancywatson.net

If you are considering buying or selling a home, call Nancy Watson. She is anexperienced agent who has served the Ranchos with honesty and integrity for 20years. A Ranchos resident since 1977, Nancy is dedicated to serving her clientswith the highest level of care and commitment. Please call Nancy Watson for allof your Real Estate needs. 12/11

ARanchos resident for over 30 years, I am a full-time professional agent working Madera,Fresno and Clovis. We offer first class service for sellers and buyers. Unable to sell atcurrent prices? We offer full property management and will rent your home for topdollar and handle all the details. Call me today! 490-1989 • DRE#: 01323109 12/11

Page 23

Resource Lenders, Inc.7330 N. Palm Ave. Suite 106

Fresno, CA [email protected]

Patty Grissom • (559)256-0533 • cell (559)307-7611Loan Officer • hablo español • NMLS #350159 • DRE #01883473

• 100% Financing• No Mortgage Insurance• Seller Can Assist With

Closing Cost• 30 Year Fixed rate Loan

12/1

1

www.The Ranchos.com

DAVID PARKER, Realtor ®

Real Estate Sales - sellers & buyers:www.davidparker.info

Property Management -we can rent your home:

www.parker-properties.info

Wishing everyonea Merry Christmas

from our home to yours.

Direct: (559) 364-1000Fax: (559) 440-7608

[email protected]

Century 21 C.Watson7520 North Palm • Fresno 12

/11

LIZ KUCHINSKI, CDPE, CRS, GRI, SFRRealtor, Century 21 C. Watson

431-7060 or 645-5450Continental Realty

12/1

1

Let us celebrate Christ’s birth, give thanks for Hisdeath, rejoice in His resurrection and share in Hiseternal peace. May the Prince of Peace bring joy to

all your Christmas celebrations.

We couldn’t have asked for a finer communitywith which to do business. May your home be blessed with

contentment, prosperity and joy this holiday season.FFrroomm tthhee ssttaaffff aatt::

JJeerrrryy EEddddiinnggss,, RReeaallttoorrss443355--11889900 oorr 664455--11889900

3377114444 AAvvee.. 1122,, SSttee.. 110022 •• MMaaddeerraa RRaanncchhooss

12/1

1

WWee’’rree SSOOLLDD ......On NeighborsLike You!

12

/11

You can do it yourself or have thepros at Madera Glass & Mirrortake care of your window repairs.

Madera Glass & Mirror’s repair services are close to the prices charged in the 1980’s. Give them a call todayfor unbelieveable prices on incredible quality work and products for all of your glass and screen needs.

Got broken screens? Madera Glass& Mirror has the expertise to makequick work of any screen repair.

Glass for picture frames is a spe-cialty at Madera Glass & Mirror. Fixa broken one or complete a project.

repairENGINE AND OUT-DRIVE REPAIRINBOARDS AND OUTBOARDS

TRAILER BOATS ONLY

CRONIN MARINE

Since1964

664455--11997777

Business Directory • Business Directory • Business Directory • Business Directory


VELVET TOUCH CAR WASH& DETAIL

645-663037075 AVE. 12 • MADERA RANCHOS

B.M.T.Computer Repair(559) 917-4507• Sales & Service• In-Home ServiceSé Habla Español

Microsoft Cerified Pro

Retired FPD 26 yr.Ca. Lic.#79328

Certifications:A+/Network +

Thomas Valdez Computer Tech.

Jo-De DRILLING

& TRACTOR SERVICE

674-7770HARDPAN DRILLING

HIGH QUALITY

555599--445544--88006600

GATE SYSTEMS

Sales and Service - Free EstimatesDuct Testing & Certification

Locally owned and operated!

559-662-0336559-438-8260

LIC. #837274

THE COMFORTAND RELAXATIONYOU DESERVE

TEXTURED COATING • PAINTINGVINYL SIDING • VINYL WINDOWS

ROOFING

TEXTURED COATING SPECIALIST

FRANK KRAMERINSURED

LIC. #273099

FRANK KRAMEREXTERIORS

(559) 645-4113

since1970

PAINTING CONTRACTOR

Marion PoolService & Repair

251-2514office

351-1605cell

645-4799after 5 p.m.

• Weekly Service• Equipment• Supplies

• Residential• Drains - Upstarts • Commercial

• Locally Owned

Mobile Notary and Loan Document SigningDaytime • Evening • Weekends

Serving Madera & Fresno CountiesDiana J. Tucker381-5879

Notary in theRanchos!

Notary in theRanchos!

IInntteerrlloocckkiinngg PPaavveerrss

444422--11999999444422--11999999nnootthhiinngg oouuttllaassttss ppaavveerrss!!

wwwwww..rrllaaccyyiinntteerrlloocckkppaavveerrss..ccoomm

LLiicc.. ##330066551111

SINCE1980

BONDED &INSUREDLIC. #589140

Interior & Exterior

Specializing inRepaints

Rental, Residential& Commercial

Drywall, Stucco,Redashing & Ac-coustical Removal

Color Matching

& Chuck’s Transmission

664455--44447755Ranchos Auto Repair+ A/C SERVICE

FREE ESTIMATESLIC. #B0008113

664455--11557788

Jeff Clark

• GM, H1 & ASE Master Certified• General Automotive Repairs• Hot Rod Customizing & Lowering

Clark’s Performance

664455--11557788

All Stage Construction, Inc.

559-681-8947

FREE ESTIMATES!

NeedConstruction?

• Concrete• Rough Framing• General Building• Steel Buildings • Shop Buildings• Room Additions • New Construction

LIC. #932435

Landscape &GardeningService

555599--330011--11661133• DRILLING • TRENCHING • DIRT WORK •

• efficient • reliable • cost-effective Beau

Lic. #899496

call

CERTIFIED ARBORIST

645-TREE(8733)

• Artful Pruning• Removals• DiseaseManagement

Page 24

ROGER PRATERCONCRETE

Residential & Commercial38 years experience

Lic. # 599235

(559) 645-0911(559) 645-0916

(559) 645-0634 The Ranchos Independent

B&M Auto & Truck Parts

37405 Ave. 12, Ste. 801645-1570

Store hours: Mon - Fri 8:30-5:30

Sat 8:00-4:00Sun 10:00-3:00

Madera Ranchos Plaza

• AluminumScreen

• FiberglassScreen

• PetGrilles

• SpecialtyScreening

• Team Program

• Kinder Gym

• Tumble Tots

• Adult Boot Camp

• Birthday Parties

• Open Gym

• Field Trips

• Cheer

www.verduzcoselitegym.com

Producing the finest athletes in the world!

559-447-1609

WHAT CAN YOUGET FOR $25?How about 12,000

Ranchos residents eachmonth who look at

Business Directory ads?

GeneralMachining

• Cylinder Boring• Cylinder Honing• Cylinder Re-sleeve• Valve Re-facing

Surfacing• Motorcycles •ATVs • Jet Skis• Boats • Cars

Business Directory

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) I know, dear Lamb, that you don't like anyone trying to take chargeof one of your projects, but try to be a bit more flexible. A new idea could help hasten a positive result.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) I'm sure, like the time-thrifty Taurus that you are, that you'vedone much of your holiday shopping. But don't relax yet. Wrap those gifts now to save yourself lotsof unwanted pressure.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Be receptive when a family member or friend asks to confide inyou. Your positive reaction could ensure that he or she will have a happy holiday experience.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Don't be rushed into wrapping up that workplace problem.Consider leaving it until after the holidays. This way you'll have the facts you need to reach the rightresolution.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) You'll get news that will make you glow brighter than the lights of theholiday season. Be sure to use what you learn both carefully and kindly, to avoid giving the wrongimpression.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) That frayed relationship could be mended in time forthe holidays if you were more flexible. Give a little, and you could get back a lot more than you imagined.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Things might not seem to be settling down as quicklyas you would prefer. But it might be just a little holiday time flutter. You'll soon get news that will leadto more stability.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Stop getting so involved in everyone's personalproblems that you lose precious time with loved ones. Remember, even the Supreme Court closes forthe holidays.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) All signs point to a bright holiday, with allof those pesky problems finally resolved in your favor. Share the good times with people you loveand, of course, who love you.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your plans should not be set in stone and cementedover. Leave some openings in case you need to make changes. Spend the holidays with your nearestand dearest.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Surprise! This holiday finds you on the receivingend of the generosity of thosewho are usually the recipients of somuch that you give so freely and lovingly.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) That piece of good news assures that you'll be swimmingin clearer, calmer waters this holiday season. There might be a storm or two ahead, but you'll weatherit all in fine style.

(c) 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.

You have a flair for seeing things as you'd like them to be,as well as a gift for turning your perceptions into reality.

BBoorrnn tthhiiss WWeeeekk

www.The Ranchos.com

Professional Pet Care When You Can’t Be There

Pets, Plants, Plus+

Accredited • Insured • Bonded

Sandra Oliver

Jackie Jones559-240-3556

559-232-1352or

callSpecializing in Livestock

Located in Madera Ranchos in Maywood CenterMON-FRI: 9AM-6PM SAT: 9AM-3PM SUN: CLOSE

• 5-Star Rated Company • Supplies • Tile Clean• Flat Rate Pricing • Green Cleans • Service

• Repairs • Portable

37167 AVE. 12 #5D (559) 645-1969WWW.WIGHTWATERPOOLS.COM

Page 25

(559) 645-0634 Today!The Ranchos Independent

JEAN BRINERfor MORE sales tomorrow, call

• Industrial• General• Farm• Mig• Tig• Stick• Certified• Portable

Welding & Fabricationcall JERRY CLARK • 706-3865

MZC

ADS

LOGOS

PR

MARKETING

645-0634


1. LITERATURE: Ollivanders is thename of a shop prominently featured inwhich series of novels?2. PSYCHOLOGY: What unnatural fearis represented in disorder oneirophobia?3. MOVIES: Which Alfred Hitchcockmovie features a main character who isconfined to a wheelchair?4. MUSIC: Which rock-and-roll grouphad a hit with the song "Got to Get Youinto My Life"?5. TELEVISION: What is the setting forthe TV soap "Another World"?6. ANCIENT WORLD: Who was one ofthe chief founders of the philosophy ofCynicism?7. POETRY: Who wrote the words,"God's in his heaven/ All's right with theworld"?8. ART: For what type of work was the16th-century artist Titian best known?9. MYTHOLOGY:Who is the Greek god-dess of love?10. GEOGRAPHY: What is the deepestlake in the world?

1.The"HarryPotter"books2.Fearofdreams3."RearWindow"4.TheBeatles5.BayCity6.Diogenes7.RobertBrowning8.Painting9.Aphrodite10.LakeBaikalinSiberia,Russia

Answers

TRIVIATESTBy Fifi Rodriguez

(c) 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.

Page 26

SSuuppeerr Crosswordby Dave T. Phipps

Page 27

www.The Ranchos.com

12/1

1

SEMCUREGULAR MEETING

Monday, January 16 at 6:30 p.m.Ranchos Pizza Factory

Due to overwhelming requests, SEMCU will sponsor additional grantwriting classes in January. One of the additional classes will be GrantWriting 101 and the other class will be Grant Writing 102, which iswriting practical applications. Please contact us to register for theupcoming grant writing classes and to suggest projects for whichSEMCU could help get grants.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

Monday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. • Ranchos Pizza Factory

SEMCUANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Documents

PRSRTSTD ECR U.S.POSTAGEPAID Independent · PDF fileThe PRSRTSTD ECR U.S.POSTAGEPAID ... Always prepare your children “If I were a thief, ... In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cashby