Back in my early 20s, I became aware of something that has served me well ever since. What I discovered was, that most people believe the first thing they hear and cannot be swayed from it. Therefore, arguments are pointless and often counter-productive. Children learn from their parents, and with few exceptions (such as hormonal rebellion), they will cling to that for life. After all, mom and dad are the smartest people they know, so why shouldn’t they believe them? This exp

Unfortunately, here we are again, dealing with another attempt to assassinate the POTUS by another crazed individual who has been brainwashed and radicalized by the far left wing faction that has taken over the Democrat party. This guy apparently thought it was his job to save the world and take out Trump. Pretty sad that, within minutes of it happening, the negative comments were already starting — everything from it being staged, to wishing he had been successful. But it is

For more than two centuries, Americans who enter public service — from soldiers and police officers to members of Congress — begin their duty with a solemn promise. It is an oath to support and defend the United States Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. That promise is not symbolic. It is the foundation of public service in a constitutional republic and the bedrock of Western culture itself. The requirement dates back to the earliest days of the nation. W

California’s energy reality: fewer refineries, more imported oil, and some of the highest fuel taxes in America are driving the cost at the pump. Every time tensions rise in the Middle East, many Californians assume that global conflict is the main reason gasoline prices spike at home. While world events can influence oil markets, the reality is that California’s gasoline prices are driven far more by the state’s own energy structure and policies than by events overseas. Cali

I am writing to offer my full and enthusiastic support for Melanie Barker as District 5 Supervisor. I have had the privilege of seeing firsthand the kind of leadership our community truly needs leadership rooted in service, integrity, and a genuine commitment to people and Melanie embodies all of that and more. In my work with youth and families throughout Eastern Madera County, I have come to deeply value leaders who not only understand our community, but who actively show u

County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters announced that a Statewide Direct Primary Election will be held in Madera County, on June 2. The following is a list of Vote Centers and Drop Box locations that will be available to serve you, for the hours specified below, between May 4, and Election Day, June 2. Vote centers • Madera County Government Center, Lobby, 200 W. 4th Street and Oakhurst Community Center, Main Hall, 39800 Road 425B. Open May 23 to June 1, from 8 a.m. to

County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, Rebecca Martinez, announced that all registered voters in the County of Madera will be mailed their Official Ballots and County Voter Information Guides beginning May 4 for the upcoming June 2, Statewide Direct Primary Election. Allow seven business days for delivery. Ballot tracking is now available, and it’s free. Ballot tracking is a service that will send a notice about a ballot including when it’s mailed, received, and count

If you are contemplating endorsement of a candidate for Madera County Supervisor, District 5, I want to make sure you are aware of Melanie Barker’s extensive leadership experience. Melanie Barker (SRS, AHWD, C2EX, RENE) serves California, Hawaii, and Guam as the National Association of REALTORS®’ 2026 Region 13 Regional Vice President. She is the broker-owner of Summit Real Estate, specializing in residential, land, and property management. Melanie has served at all three lev