Local News

Cal/OSHA Fines Butler Amusements over $100,000 for Willful Violations at Big Fresno Fair

FRESNO - Cal/OSHA fined Butler Amusements, Inc. $101,250 following an investigation which found that the temporary amusement ride operator knowingly conducted rides after key bolts and cross bracing had been removed. The compromised rides included the Giant Wheel and Flying Bobs rides at the Big Fresno Fair last October.

"When the safety of riders is put at risk, we make sure immediate steps are taken to correct any existing hazards," said Christine Baker, Director of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). Cal/OSHA, also known as the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) is a division of DIR.

Former Madera Mayor Buried With Honors at National Cemetery

John W Wells Laid To Rest Among Other Heroes

SANTA NELLA - Former Madera mayor and city councilman John W Wells was laid to rest Monday at the San Joaquin National Cemetery in Santa Nella, California.

Wells was the longest serving council member for the city of Madera first running in 1962. He lost that election but two years later the voters of Madera gave him his seat on the council. He held that seat until 1977. During his first stint on the council Wells served as Madera Mayor three times.

Forgotten Chowchilla Veteran Given Military Honors with Help of Missing in America Project

MADERA - Chowchilla resident Carlton Neal Jr. received full military honors Friday as his remains were interned at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella. But his journey to his final resting place was a rough one.

Neal, a Cold War veteran, served in the United States Air Force from September 4, 1958 to October 11, 1960. When the veteran died this last January his only living relative was a cousin, who by law could not claim his ashes.

Madera High Security Guard Arrest For Molestation

MADERA - A Madera High School security guard has been arrested for sexually molesting two of his children, possibly for over the last five years. The suspect is in custody on four felony counts and $325K bail.

Big Valley News has reached out to Madera High Principal Kent Albertson for a comment but neither him nor the school district has returned our calls. We have not been able to determine if any other children are involved in this case or if any Madera High students were affected.

Vandal Smashes Windows at Madera Courthouse on Video

MADERA – Shards of glass littered the public entrance of Madera County’s Courthouse building Friday morning after a vandal smashed the windows some time overnight. Two rocks were found that deputies say were used to shatter one of the glass doors, and destroy the side panel of another window.

Courthouse security is provided by Madera Private Security but was not at the building when the attack happened Thursday morning at 2:30am. The Sheriff’s Office is currently reviewing surveillance video and court records to determine if the suspect in the video recently had appeared in court.