WawonaNews.com - May 2019
Yosemite’s Glacier Point Road Will Close Due To Storm
May 14, 2019 - 2:13 pm
YOSEMITE — Due to an incoming winter storm system, the Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park will close to all vehicular traffic beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15. Glacier Point Road will remain closed until the storm system passes and the road can be evaluated for hazards. The road will reopen when road conditions are safe for vehicular traffic.
Yosemite National Park is open. Visitors planning trips to the park over the next several days are advised to be prepared for winter driving conditions along the El Portal Road (Hwy 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Hwy 120 W) and Wawona Road (Hwy 41).
Tire chains may be required at any time depending on road conditions. Temporary road closures may go into effect at any time due to road and weather conditions.
For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, please call (209) 372-0200, press 1 and press 1 again. Updated information is also available on the park’s website.
May 14, 2019 - 2:13 pm
YOSEMITE — Due to an incoming winter storm system, the Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park will close to all vehicular traffic beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15. Glacier Point Road will remain closed until the storm system passes and the road can be evaluated for hazards. The road will reopen when road conditions are safe for vehicular traffic.
Yosemite National Park is open. Visitors planning trips to the park over the next several days are advised to be prepared for winter driving conditions along the El Portal Road (Hwy 140), Big Oak Flat Road (Hwy 120 W) and Wawona Road (Hwy 41).
Tire chains may be required at any time depending on road conditions. Temporary road closures may go into effect at any time due to road and weather conditions.
For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, please call (209) 372-0200, press 1 and press 1 again. Updated information is also available on the park’s website.
Wawona Pine Needle Pile Pick Up: June 10 – June 14, 2019
Your pile must be ready by Monday, June 10. If it is not ready by the time the equipment is in your area, they will not go back and pick up late piles. Remember, one pile per property along the road in front of your property in an unobstructed area where the equipment can easily access your needle pile. Tree limbs and branches must be cut to a maximum of 3 feet in length to be picked up. Only vegetation material will be picked up. No construction materials or large branches, please.
Yosemite National Park, Aramark, & UC Merced properties are not part of the Special Services District and are not included in the pick-up.
If your address is on an out-of-the-way street, you can call or e-mail Calvin Jones so your needle pile won’t be missed.
Calvin Jones
Superintendent
Mariposa County
Solid Waste & Recycling
(209)966-5165 x203
jones@mariposacounty.org
Your pile must be ready by Monday, June 10. If it is not ready by the time the equipment is in your area, they will not go back and pick up late piles. Remember, one pile per property along the road in front of your property in an unobstructed area where the equipment can easily access your needle pile. Tree limbs and branches must be cut to a maximum of 3 feet in length to be picked up. Only vegetation material will be picked up. No construction materials or large branches, please.
Yosemite National Park, Aramark, & UC Merced properties are not part of the Special Services District and are not included in the pick-up.
If your address is on an out-of-the-way street, you can call or e-mail Calvin Jones so your needle pile won’t be missed.
Calvin Jones
Superintendent
Mariposa County
Solid Waste & Recycling
(209)966-5165 x203
jones@mariposacounty.org
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 13, 2019, Approval of the regular meeting minutes for April 9
3.3 – Approve the resignation of Chad Andrews from the Board of Directors
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.4.1 Document Tracking Service Renewal Fees ($395)
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Shared business services with Bass Lake
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 13, 2019, Approval of the regular meeting minutes for April 9
3.3 – Approve the resignation of Chad Andrews from the Board of Directors
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.4.1 Document Tracking Service Renewal Fees ($395)
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- SELECTION OF BOARD OFFICERS
- APPROVAL OF FORM 990 (ORGANIZATION EXEMPT FROM INCOME TAX) AND FORM 199
- APPROVAL OF ACTION TO CORRECT W-2 ADJUSTMENTS FROM STRS AND APPROVAL OF FINAL PAYOUT TO “THE PAYROLL PEOPLE”
- YWECS BUDGET FOR 2019-2020
INFORMATION ITEMS
- REPORT FROM THE AD HOC COMMITTEE ON “SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOL”
- STAFF REPORTS
Shared business services with Bass Lake
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- CLOSED SESSION: Personnel/Negotiations/Litigation
- Personnel (Gov. Code 54957)
- RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION: Announce Closed Session Actions
- ADJOURNMENT
Glacier Point Road In Yosemite To Open May 10
Posted by: gina clugston May 8, 2019
YOSEMITE – Yosemite National Park will open the Glacier Point Road to all vehicular traffic at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 10.
There will be limited visitor services available at Glacier Point. The Glacier Point Store will be open at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 10. There is no projected opening date for the Bridalveil Creek Campground.
Visitors are encouraged to slow down and drive with caution along all park roads, as bears and other wildlife may be present on or near the roadway. Drivers should be aware of potential hazards in the road, including wet and icy conditions or debris in the roadway.
Drivers should also be aware of the potential of downed trees in and around the road.
The Four Mile Trail remains closed until further notice from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point due to snow, ice, and other hazards along the trail.
All visitors planning to hike at high elevations in Yosemite National Park should be prepared for winter hiking conditions. Hikers may encounter snow, ice, high water crossings and other hazards, and should be prepared to turn back if challenging conditions are found along a trail.
Spring is a busy time to visit Yosemite National Park. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and arrive to the park before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Parking areas throughout the park are expected to fill early in the day. Visitor parking will be available at the Yosemite Village Day Parking Area and at the Yosemite Falls Day Parking Area.
Visitors are encouraged to park and utilize the free park shuttle to get to the Yosemite Valley Village and Visitor Center. Visitors coming to Yosemite from Friday through Sunday will experience periods of heavy visitation and should be prepared to wait in long lines at the park entrance stations.
“All park visitors are encouraged to pack your patience,” say park officials.
Posted by: gina clugston May 8, 2019
YOSEMITE – Yosemite National Park will open the Glacier Point Road to all vehicular traffic at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 10.
There will be limited visitor services available at Glacier Point. The Glacier Point Store will be open at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 10. There is no projected opening date for the Bridalveil Creek Campground.
Visitors are encouraged to slow down and drive with caution along all park roads, as bears and other wildlife may be present on or near the roadway. Drivers should be aware of potential hazards in the road, including wet and icy conditions or debris in the roadway.
Drivers should also be aware of the potential of downed trees in and around the road.
The Four Mile Trail remains closed until further notice from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point due to snow, ice, and other hazards along the trail.
All visitors planning to hike at high elevations in Yosemite National Park should be prepared for winter hiking conditions. Hikers may encounter snow, ice, high water crossings and other hazards, and should be prepared to turn back if challenging conditions are found along a trail.
Spring is a busy time to visit Yosemite National Park. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and arrive to the park before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Parking areas throughout the park are expected to fill early in the day. Visitor parking will be available at the Yosemite Village Day Parking Area and at the Yosemite Falls Day Parking Area.
Visitors are encouraged to park and utilize the free park shuttle to get to the Yosemite Valley Village and Visitor Center. Visitors coming to Yosemite from Friday through Sunday will experience periods of heavy visitation and should be prepared to wait in long lines at the park entrance stations.
“All park visitors are encouraged to pack your patience,” say park officials.
The Rise and Fall of Sierra Nevada Glaciers
Greg Stock, Yosemite National Park Geologist
Wawona Community Center
Thursday, May 9
Doors at 6pm, lecture from 6:30-7:30pm
Glaciers have been fundamental in shaping the Yosemite landscape. Although glaciers have come and gone from Yosemite for millions of years due to natural shifts in Earth's climate, glaciers are retreating now for different reasons. Join Yosemite Park Geologist Greg Stock for a presentation on Yosemite's glacial history, focusing on the two remaining glaciers in the park (the Lyell and Maclure glaciers), the rich history of their study, and the implications of their impending loss.
Greg Stock, Yosemite National Park Geologist
Wawona Community Center
Thursday, May 9
Doors at 6pm, lecture from 6:30-7:30pm
Glaciers have been fundamental in shaping the Yosemite landscape. Although glaciers have come and gone from Yosemite for millions of years due to natural shifts in Earth's climate, glaciers are retreating now for different reasons. Join Yosemite Park Geologist Greg Stock for a presentation on Yosemite's glacial history, focusing on the two remaining glaciers in the park (the Lyell and Maclure glaciers), the rich history of their study, and the implications of their impending loss.
Anne Kelly's Big Sendoff, May 25th
Since July, 2016, Anne Kelly has worked as Director of UC Merced's Yosemite and Sequoia Field Stations. This month she is leaving for decidedly less-green pastures at the California State University Desert Studies Center in Zzyzx (that’s right – Zzyzx), California.
Join our BIG SENDOFF,
Wishing HAPPY TRAILS to
ANNE KELLY
From Wawona to Zzyzx, or,
From Obscurity to Oblivion, or, rather,
Au Revoir, but not Good Bye:
A PICNIC / POTLUCK
AT THE
WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER
NOON, SATURDAY, MAY 25
To thank our friend for joining and enhancing the Wawona Community.
BRING YOURSELVES, AND (any or all):
Potluck/Picnic food, drink, chairs, tables, tablecloths, flowers, musical instruments, tokens of appreciation…
We’re providing paper plates, cups, napkins, forks, and a barbecue grill.
Since July, 2016, Anne Kelly has worked as Director of UC Merced's Yosemite and Sequoia Field Stations. This month she is leaving for decidedly less-green pastures at the California State University Desert Studies Center in Zzyzx (that’s right – Zzyzx), California.
Join our BIG SENDOFF,
Wishing HAPPY TRAILS to
ANNE KELLY
From Wawona to Zzyzx, or,
From Obscurity to Oblivion, or, rather,
Au Revoir, but not Good Bye:
A PICNIC / POTLUCK
AT THE
WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER
NOON, SATURDAY, MAY 25
To thank our friend for joining and enhancing the Wawona Community.
BRING YOURSELVES, AND (any or all):
Potluck/Picnic food, drink, chairs, tables, tablecloths, flowers, musical instruments, tokens of appreciation…
We’re providing paper plates, cups, napkins, forks, and a barbecue grill.
A Message from WAPPOA about Liability Insurance in Wawona
Christian Mueller, the General Manager at the Redwoods, sent an email to the Redwoods owners on March 13, 2019 with information from Tim Finster, a homeowner and Redwoods Board director, who has worked in the insurance industry for more than 35 years. Tim also gave a presentation on April 12th at the Redwoods homeowners meetings on the subject, and sent a summary to Trish Peterson (WAPPOA treasurer) to share with all the homeowners in Wawona. Here is a brief summary –
Insurance companies are reevaluating their desire to offer coverage on homes in the Wawona area due to several reasons – the recent wildfires, the drought and beetle infestation of the trees, and the fact that there is only one way into and out of Wawona making it hard to get into with fire equipment and hard to evacuate. Also, there aren’t many residences here making it hard for a carrier to bring in enough premium to justify the risk.
Standard carriers get out of business in two different ways – they let you know a few months in advance that they don’t intend to offer you a renewal, or they raise their prices significantly, hoping to make the premium un-affordable for all.
Standard carriers generally offer all of the coverage one would need. Non-admitted carriers offer coverage that they want to offer. So generally, there is less insurance with non-admitted carriers, and it costs more that the standard carriers.
There is also California’s FAIR Plan Association – coverage offered as a last resort which is very expensive and seldom provides adequate coverage.
So what’s our best strategy?
1) Consider ignoring small claims that are really just nuisances. Carriers are looking for reasons to cancel coverage.
2) If you have low deductibles, $250 or $500, consider selecting a $2500 or $5000 or higher deductible. Your premium will be less if your deductibles are higher, and you still might be able to maintain coverage with a standard carrier.
3) Package your insurance coverages together if possible.
4) Consider insuring your cabin as a vacation rental, not a second home
Stick close to your insurance agent letting him/her know you want to look at the marketplace midterm, instead of waiting for the renewal, and make sure your agent has access to the broader, non-standard marketplace.
Finally, if you face a large rate increase or cancellation, reach out to your agent and ask them to access Burns and Wilcox, a general agent, and direct Burns and Wilcox to get an offer from Evanston Insurance Company. Evanston is a surplus lines company that still prices vacation rentals reasonably and does not appear to be too concerned with our types of exposure.
Christian Mueller, the General Manager at the Redwoods, sent an email to the Redwoods owners on March 13, 2019 with information from Tim Finster, a homeowner and Redwoods Board director, who has worked in the insurance industry for more than 35 years. Tim also gave a presentation on April 12th at the Redwoods homeowners meetings on the subject, and sent a summary to Trish Peterson (WAPPOA treasurer) to share with all the homeowners in Wawona. Here is a brief summary –
Insurance companies are reevaluating their desire to offer coverage on homes in the Wawona area due to several reasons – the recent wildfires, the drought and beetle infestation of the trees, and the fact that there is only one way into and out of Wawona making it hard to get into with fire equipment and hard to evacuate. Also, there aren’t many residences here making it hard for a carrier to bring in enough premium to justify the risk.
Standard carriers get out of business in two different ways – they let you know a few months in advance that they don’t intend to offer you a renewal, or they raise their prices significantly, hoping to make the premium un-affordable for all.
Standard carriers generally offer all of the coverage one would need. Non-admitted carriers offer coverage that they want to offer. So generally, there is less insurance with non-admitted carriers, and it costs more that the standard carriers.
There is also California’s FAIR Plan Association – coverage offered as a last resort which is very expensive and seldom provides adequate coverage.
So what’s our best strategy?
1) Consider ignoring small claims that are really just nuisances. Carriers are looking for reasons to cancel coverage.
2) If you have low deductibles, $250 or $500, consider selecting a $2500 or $5000 or higher deductible. Your premium will be less if your deductibles are higher, and you still might be able to maintain coverage with a standard carrier.
3) Package your insurance coverages together if possible.
4) Consider insuring your cabin as a vacation rental, not a second home
Stick close to your insurance agent letting him/her know you want to look at the marketplace midterm, instead of waiting for the renewal, and make sure your agent has access to the broader, non-standard marketplace.
Finally, if you face a large rate increase or cancellation, reach out to your agent and ask them to access Burns and Wilcox, a general agent, and direct Burns and Wilcox to get an offer from Evanston Insurance Company. Evanston is a surplus lines company that still prices vacation rentals reasonably and does not appear to be too concerned with our types of exposure.
Yoga Resumes On Wednesday May 8th
Moving forward, yoga will be from 6-7pm every Wednesday at the Redwoods. We have mats available if needed. Bring water and a blanket. Donations between $5-20 suggested.
Moving forward, yoga will be from 6-7pm every Wednesday at the Redwoods. We have mats available if needed. Bring water and a blanket. Donations between $5-20 suggested.
Home For Sale in Wawona
2 bd,1 ba, 816 sqft$ 599,000 2573 River Rd, Wawona, CA 95389 Click here for more info
Roadwork on 41
State Route 41, North of Narrow Gauge Inn has roadway that is giving way. Caltrans Central Valley District 6 is working to rectify this situation from 6AM-6PM Monday-Saturday. This is expected to continue for the next 3-4 weeks. Please use caution as you travel through this area.
State Route 41, North of Narrow Gauge Inn has roadway that is giving way. Caltrans Central Valley District 6 is working to rectify this situation from 6AM-6PM Monday-Saturday. This is expected to continue for the next 3-4 weeks. Please use caution as you travel through this area.
Fire in Yosemite
Parker Bevington, Wawona Fire Captain
NEW LOCATION! Wawona Fire Station
Friday, April 12
Doors at 6pm, lecture from 6:30-7:30pm
Come join Wawona Fire Captain Parker Bevington for an up-close look at fire operations in Yosemite National Park. Drawing from his experience through 17 fire seasons and working hundreds of fires, Captain Bevington will share the history, evolution, and current capabilities of Yosemite Fire. This lecture will be hosted at the Wawona Fire Station and will feature the equipment and strategies that NPS fire fighters utilize when responding to both wildland and structural fire incidents in the park. Bring your curiosity and questions for this informative, interactive evening!
Parker Bevington, Wawona Fire Captain
NEW LOCATION! Wawona Fire Station
Friday, April 12
Doors at 6pm, lecture from 6:30-7:30pm
Come join Wawona Fire Captain Parker Bevington for an up-close look at fire operations in Yosemite National Park. Drawing from his experience through 17 fire seasons and working hundreds of fires, Captain Bevington will share the history, evolution, and current capabilities of Yosemite Fire. This lecture will be hosted at the Wawona Fire Station and will feature the equipment and strategies that NPS fire fighters utilize when responding to both wildland and structural fire incidents in the park. Bring your curiosity and questions for this informative, interactive evening!
Yosemite National Park to Celebrate Earth Day on Saturday April 20, 2019
Visitors are invited to help us celebrate Earth Day, National Junior Ranger Day, National Park Week, and John Muir’s Birthday in Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite National Park will be celebrating Earth Day, National Junior Ranger Day, National Park Week, and John Muir’s Birthday on Saturday, April 20, 2019. There will be activities for all ages throughout the day. All activities are free.
Join us at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center in Yosemite Village from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. There will be music, games, and interactive booths. Meet with park rangers and park partners and learn how we are working to preserve and protect natural and cultural resources in Yosemite National Park.
Some of the day’s highlights include:
Visitors coming to the park should be prepared for a very busy day. Saturday, April 20, 2019 is a free day to help kick off National Park Week. All entrance fees are free, camping and other fees still apply. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and arrive to the park before 9:00 am. Parking areas throughout the park are expected to fill early in the day.
Visitor parking will be available at the Yosemite Village Parking Area and Yosemite Falls Parking Area, located across from Camp 4 Campground. All visitors are encouraged to park and utilize the free park shuttle to get to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.
Public transportation is a wonderful way to visit Yosemite Valley. YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) buses run multiple times daily and provide visitors with a safe and convenient way to visit the park. To learn more, visit www.yarts.com.
For more information on Earth Day in Yosemite and helpful travel tips, visit the following websites:
www.nps.gov/yose
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/publictransportation.htm
Yosemite National Park will be celebrating Earth Day, National Junior Ranger Day, National Park Week, and John Muir’s Birthday on Saturday, April 20, 2019. There will be activities for all ages throughout the day. All activities are free.
Join us at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center in Yosemite Village from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. There will be music, games, and interactive booths. Meet with park rangers and park partners and learn how we are working to preserve and protect natural and cultural resources in Yosemite National Park.
Some of the day’s highlights include:
- Learn about how you can reduce waste at the Sustainability booth. Bring an empty single-use camp propane canister and trade it in for a refillable propane canister.
- Junior Rangers of all ages are welcome to explore the park on a special Ranger-guided walk at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm.
- Join a Park Ecologist and learn about Meadow Restoration on a walk around Ahwahnee Meadow at 10:45 am.
- Connect with a Park Ranger and learn about bears and other wildlife that call Yosemite home.
- Express your love of Yosemite through a special art project brought to you by Yosemite Conservancy.
- Enjoy Facepainting and other hands-on activities for all ages
- Join a photo walk at 11:00 am and explore Yosemite Valley through your camera’s lens with photographers from the Ansel Adams Gallery
- Learn sustainable gardening tips from the UC Mariposa Master Gardeners
- And much more!
Visitors coming to the park should be prepared for a very busy day. Saturday, April 20, 2019 is a free day to help kick off National Park Week. All entrance fees are free, camping and other fees still apply. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips in advance and arrive to the park before 9:00 am. Parking areas throughout the park are expected to fill early in the day.
Visitor parking will be available at the Yosemite Village Parking Area and Yosemite Falls Parking Area, located across from Camp 4 Campground. All visitors are encouraged to park and utilize the free park shuttle to get to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.
Public transportation is a wonderful way to visit Yosemite Valley. YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) buses run multiple times daily and provide visitors with a safe and convenient way to visit the park. To learn more, visit www.yarts.com.
For more information on Earth Day in Yosemite and helpful travel tips, visit the following websites:
www.nps.gov/yose
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/publictransportation.htm
Animal Advocates Release Video Of Andrew Renner And Son Owen Killing Black Bear And Cubs In Alaska
Andrew Renner and his son, Owen, were recorded while killing a mother bear and her cubs in Alaska as they were hibernating
By Natasha Ishak
Published April 1, 2019
Sometimes animal cruelty knows no bounds. Video footage showing two hunters killing a black bear mother and her two cubs inside their hibernation den in April 2018 has now been released to the public. According to Alaska’s KTUU-TV, the video was published by the Humane Society of the United States following a public records request from the organization.
In the graphic video, Andrew Renner and his son, Owen, are seen peering into the dark den of a hibernating black bear, before firing a handful of rounds.
The two bear cubs inside can be heard shrieking in fear as they sense the danger that is lurking outside their home. Eventually, Andrew Renner takes the first shot. Then, a second and third one, effectively killing the mother bear and both cubs.
“They’ll never be able to link it back to us,” one of them can be heard saying in the video.
After they commit the killing, the father-son duo drag the body of the mother bear out of its den. With his hands and arms covered in blood, apparently pleased by their deed, Renner gives his son an enthusiastic high-five. They then pose for a few photos with the dead mother bear, before skinning her and stuffing the hide in a bag to take home.
But the crime doesn’t stop there. The camera caught the Renners again two days later when they came back to the scene of the crime to eliminate the remaining evidence. In the video, they can be seen getting rid of stray shell casings in the vicinity before bagging the bodies of the bear cubs they had originally left behind.
The cameras that caught the atrocious crime in Esther Island, Alaska, were originally installed for a study by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the US Forest Service.
“This video of a father and son killing a mother bear and her babies in their den and showing complete disregard for the lives they are taking is reprehensible,” Humane Society International President Kitty Block said of Andrew Renner and son Owen, as quoted by UniLad.
“The Renners’ actions demonstrate the ruthless brutality that the government is poised to enact into law on millions of acres in Alaska, overturning a 2015 Obama-era rule that prohibits the killing of black bear mothers and cubs in their dens on these lands.”
Last August, the Renners were charged separately on multiple counts, including unlawfully taking a female bear with cubs, possession/transporting illegally taken game, and tampering with physical evidence. Both men pled guilty to the charges earlier this year.
Andrew Renner was sentenced to three months in jail and barred from hunting for 10 years, while his 18-year-old son, Owen, got a slap on the wrist with a 30-day suspensed sentence and mandatory community service.
“What we saw is that there were two bear cubs that were completely defenseless and were shot at point-blank range,” Alaska Assistant Attorney General Aaron Peterson told the court. He continued to state that the crime committed by the Renners was the most egregious bear cub poaching case his office had ever seen.
According to the Humane Society, the killing of cubs, or a mother bear and her cubs, is illegal in the part of Alaska where Andrew Renner and son Owen had committed their crime. The organization warned that the actions caught on the video could be a glimpse into what might happen if new regulations from the federal government are implemented.
The organization has released the video to raise awareness about the federal government’s plans to roll back protections that were put in place to prohibit cruel methods of poaching. Hunting methods that are considered unlawful include taking wolves and pups during the denning season, shooting swimming caribou from motorboats, and using dogs to hunt.
Killing a mother bear or her cubs is still legal in some other parts of Alaska.
By Natasha Ishak
Published April 1, 2019
Sometimes animal cruelty knows no bounds. Video footage showing two hunters killing a black bear mother and her two cubs inside their hibernation den in April 2018 has now been released to the public. According to Alaska’s KTUU-TV, the video was published by the Humane Society of the United States following a public records request from the organization.
In the graphic video, Andrew Renner and his son, Owen, are seen peering into the dark den of a hibernating black bear, before firing a handful of rounds.
The two bear cubs inside can be heard shrieking in fear as they sense the danger that is lurking outside their home. Eventually, Andrew Renner takes the first shot. Then, a second and third one, effectively killing the mother bear and both cubs.
“They’ll never be able to link it back to us,” one of them can be heard saying in the video.
After they commit the killing, the father-son duo drag the body of the mother bear out of its den. With his hands and arms covered in blood, apparently pleased by their deed, Renner gives his son an enthusiastic high-five. They then pose for a few photos with the dead mother bear, before skinning her and stuffing the hide in a bag to take home.
But the crime doesn’t stop there. The camera caught the Renners again two days later when they came back to the scene of the crime to eliminate the remaining evidence. In the video, they can be seen getting rid of stray shell casings in the vicinity before bagging the bodies of the bear cubs they had originally left behind.
The cameras that caught the atrocious crime in Esther Island, Alaska, were originally installed for a study by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the US Forest Service.
“This video of a father and son killing a mother bear and her babies in their den and showing complete disregard for the lives they are taking is reprehensible,” Humane Society International President Kitty Block said of Andrew Renner and son Owen, as quoted by UniLad.
“The Renners’ actions demonstrate the ruthless brutality that the government is poised to enact into law on millions of acres in Alaska, overturning a 2015 Obama-era rule that prohibits the killing of black bear mothers and cubs in their dens on these lands.”
Last August, the Renners were charged separately on multiple counts, including unlawfully taking a female bear with cubs, possession/transporting illegally taken game, and tampering with physical evidence. Both men pled guilty to the charges earlier this year.
Andrew Renner was sentenced to three months in jail and barred from hunting for 10 years, while his 18-year-old son, Owen, got a slap on the wrist with a 30-day suspensed sentence and mandatory community service.
“What we saw is that there were two bear cubs that were completely defenseless and were shot at point-blank range,” Alaska Assistant Attorney General Aaron Peterson told the court. He continued to state that the crime committed by the Renners was the most egregious bear cub poaching case his office had ever seen.
According to the Humane Society, the killing of cubs, or a mother bear and her cubs, is illegal in the part of Alaska where Andrew Renner and son Owen had committed their crime. The organization warned that the actions caught on the video could be a glimpse into what might happen if new regulations from the federal government are implemented.
The organization has released the video to raise awareness about the federal government’s plans to roll back protections that were put in place to prohibit cruel methods of poaching. Hunting methods that are considered unlawful include taking wolves and pups during the denning season, shooting swimming caribou from motorboats, and using dogs to hunt.
Killing a mother bear or her cubs is still legal in some other parts of Alaska.
All Aboard! Historic Railroad Opens For The Season
Posted by: Kellie Flanagan April 4, 2019
FISH CAMP – The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad opens this weekend and now, before the crowds of summer arrive, is a beautiful time to visit. Tickets are available starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Apr. 6.
Just 15 minutes from Oakhurst and 4 miles south of the entrance to Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers excursions with authentic, historic Shay locomotives and Jenny Railcars.
Visitors may enjoy a narrated four-mile round trip into the National Forest as the conductor shares tales of long ago, when the Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company still operated along the same roadbed. You may choose to ride on an open-air log car or covered passenger car, and your well-behaved dog is also welcome on the trip. You may even find homemade doggie treats on the menu at the lunch counter.
After the train pulls back into the station, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting, do some gold panning, tour the museum and browse the gift shops.
Cab rides and tours of the engine house can also be arranged for those true train aficionados. Or, ride the Moonlight Special with a bonus BBQ, campfire songs and stories — a family favorite.
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad has the largest narrow gauge Shay locomotive ever built. The Number 10 and the Number 15 were the first and last Shay locomotives to leave the West Side Lumber Company’s property, and are still in service for all to enjoy.
At the Station Gift Shop, you’ll find an array of unique gifts, original artwork, and an interesting selection of books. Subjects range from trains to nature, Yosemite, local history, and some of the colorful characters who lent their names and escapades to the fascinating history of the mountain area.
At the Thornberry Museum, visitors will get a glimpse of logging life at the turn of the 20th century. Museum admission is free of charge.
To complete the journey back in time, visitors are invited to dip their hands into history and relive the excitement of the California Gold Rush by panning for gold in the authentic sluice boxes. The prospector will teach you the proper techniques, just like the 49ers used, and gold-panners get to take home their treasure.
Guests can also enjoy an evening filled with entertainment during the Moonlight Specials. Start with a BBQ dinner in the picnic area, complete with musical entertainment, followed by a train ride to the half-way point, where everyone disembarks for an old-fashioned sing-a-long around the campfire. Then, it’s all-aboard for the steam train ride back up to the station in the moonlight, as the whistle blows its lonesome sound out across the forest. It’s a great family atmosphere, and the perfect outing for friends and family visiting from out of town.
It’s also a wonderful place to bring the grandkids. There are folks who return year after year, and plan their vacation around a treasure that’s right in your own backyard.
Plan to make a day — or a night of it. Visit Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroadfor more information.The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is located at 56001 Highway 41 in Fish Camp. Visit them on Facebook to see what’s happening at the Railroad.
Posted by: Kellie Flanagan April 4, 2019
FISH CAMP – The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad opens this weekend and now, before the crowds of summer arrive, is a beautiful time to visit. Tickets are available starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Apr. 6.
Just 15 minutes from Oakhurst and 4 miles south of the entrance to Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers excursions with authentic, historic Shay locomotives and Jenny Railcars.
Visitors may enjoy a narrated four-mile round trip into the National Forest as the conductor shares tales of long ago, when the Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company still operated along the same roadbed. You may choose to ride on an open-air log car or covered passenger car, and your well-behaved dog is also welcome on the trip. You may even find homemade doggie treats on the menu at the lunch counter.
After the train pulls back into the station, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting, do some gold panning, tour the museum and browse the gift shops.
Cab rides and tours of the engine house can also be arranged for those true train aficionados. Or, ride the Moonlight Special with a bonus BBQ, campfire songs and stories — a family favorite.
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad has the largest narrow gauge Shay locomotive ever built. The Number 10 and the Number 15 were the first and last Shay locomotives to leave the West Side Lumber Company’s property, and are still in service for all to enjoy.
At the Station Gift Shop, you’ll find an array of unique gifts, original artwork, and an interesting selection of books. Subjects range from trains to nature, Yosemite, local history, and some of the colorful characters who lent their names and escapades to the fascinating history of the mountain area.
At the Thornberry Museum, visitors will get a glimpse of logging life at the turn of the 20th century. Museum admission is free of charge.
To complete the journey back in time, visitors are invited to dip their hands into history and relive the excitement of the California Gold Rush by panning for gold in the authentic sluice boxes. The prospector will teach you the proper techniques, just like the 49ers used, and gold-panners get to take home their treasure.
Guests can also enjoy an evening filled with entertainment during the Moonlight Specials. Start with a BBQ dinner in the picnic area, complete with musical entertainment, followed by a train ride to the half-way point, where everyone disembarks for an old-fashioned sing-a-long around the campfire. Then, it’s all-aboard for the steam train ride back up to the station in the moonlight, as the whistle blows its lonesome sound out across the forest. It’s a great family atmosphere, and the perfect outing for friends and family visiting from out of town.
It’s also a wonderful place to bring the grandkids. There are folks who return year after year, and plan their vacation around a treasure that’s right in your own backyard.
Plan to make a day — or a night of it. Visit Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroadfor more information.The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is located at 56001 Highway 41 in Fish Camp. Visit them on Facebook to see what’s happening at the Railroad.
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 9, 2019
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 13, 2019
3.3–Approve Payroll
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.4.1 A-Z Bus Repair Order
ACTION ITEMS
INFORMATION ITEMS
Board of Directors Regular Meeting
Tuesday, April 9, 2019
5:30 P.M.
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualana Falls Road
Wawona, CA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
MONTHLY ITEMS AND FINANCIAL REPORTS
- CONSENT AGENDA
3.1- Approval of Agenda
3.2– Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of March 13, 2019
3.3–Approve Payroll
3.4- Approve Warrants
3.4.1 A-Z Bus Repair Order
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- DECISIONS REGARDING SCHOOL RE-OPENING
- ARC FACILITY USE APPROVAL FOR SUMMER
INFORMATION ITEMS
- REPORT FROM THE AD HOC COMMITTEE ON “SUPPORT OF THE SCHOOL”
- STAFF REPORTS
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- NEXT BOARD MEETING
- CLOSED SESSION: Personnel/Negotiations/Litigation
- Personnel (Gov. Code 54957)
- RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION: Announce Closed Session Actions
- ADJOURNMENT
