CSUB joins national children's health study

At a national news conference this morning, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development announced that California State University, Bakersfield has been selected to partner with University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Irvine, and University of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center to participate in a nationwide study designed to improve the health and well-being of children. The universities will receive $14.5 million over five years for the research, with CSUB receiving $10.4 million.

The National Children’s Study is the largest study to be conducted on the effects of environmental and genetic factors on child and human health in the United States. The study will follow a representative sample of 100,000 children from before birth to age 21, seeking information to prevent and treat some of the nation’s most pressing health problems, including autism, birth defects, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

Kern is one of 105 counties nationwide to be included in the study, with nine of these in California.

“This study represents a golden opportunity for CSU Bakersfield to participate in high-level health research and strengthen our engagement with the community as well as with top-rated scientists at the University of California,” said CSUB President Horace Mitchell. “We believe this project will bring resources to identify health challenges in Kern County and improve the well-being of residents here and throughout the nation.”

Participation by CSUB and Kern County in the project stems from long-standing relationships Mitchell has with both UC campuses.

“I was contacted by Jim Swanson, who is principal investigator for the study and a former colleague. He inquired about CSUB’s interest in participating in this landmark research and including Kern County in the study,” Mitchell said. “There was no question that we wanted to contribute to the effort. Research of this magnitude with these premiere research institutions reflects the increasing recognition of the excellence of our faculty and academic programs. This will have a direct benefit on our community.”

Swanson expressed his excitement about the long-term collaborations that will develop between the UC campuses and CSUB. “I have enjoyed working over the last two years with Bob Horton, Peggy Leapley and Julio Blanco at CSUB and Asa Bradman at UC Berkeley on the study proposal. Without them, this grant wouldn’t have happened for Kern County. Their interest and work has been tremendous and they have been willing to do whatever is necessary to make this project a reality,” he added.

University officials submitted an extensive proposal that detailed project objectives and collaborative relationships with partners such as Kern County Department of Public Health, Kern Medical Center, First 5 Kern, and the Kern County Network for Children. CSUB also received broad support from myriad regional medical care providers and the Kern County Board of Supervisors.

“Planning for this project has involved developing extensive support among many organizations and individuals. I am privileged to work with people so committed to the well being of their community,” said Asa Bradman, who will help lead the Kern County portion of the study from the Center for Children’s Environmental Health Research at UC Berkeley.

Locally, the principal investigator for the study will be Peggy Leapley, who recently retired from CSUB as chair of the nursing department but will continue working on this project. She will work closely with Bradman.

“This was a highly competitive process and this study has the potential to influence health care decisions for generations. This is a 25-year longitudinal study. It’s size and scope are unprecedented,” Leapley said. “On campus, the research will be tremendous for our nursing students who will have a hands-on opportunity to learn about public health and how it impacts nursing.”

Medical and technical staff from the Kern County Department of Public Health and Kern Medical Center will be actively involved in the study. Eugene Kercher, chief medical officer at KMC, was acknowledged as instrumental in the success of the proposal.

“We are grateful for the hard work and support of CSUB, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine and Kern County community groups who have worked together to make this important project possible,” said Portia Choi, director of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health for the Kern County Department of Public Health. “The Board of Supervisors and virtually every large hospital and medical provider supported this study. This was a true community partnership effort. Public Health is grateful for this opportunity and we look forward to the impact it will have on our community.”

Study researchers hope to gain insight into the genesis of important health issues by examining environmental factors such as air, water, and house dust; what children eat; how they are cared for; the safety of their neighborhoods; and how often they see a doctor. Findings from the study will provide the basis for new disease prevention strategies, health and safety guidelines, and potential new treatments and cures for diseases. Planning for the local portion of the study will begin immediately and approximately 1,000 Kern County participants will be enrolled by early 2011.

The National Children’s Study is led by a consortium of federal agencies: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—including the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—and the Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information about the National Children’s Study, see the official website at www.nationalchildrensstudy.gov.

For information about the study locally, contact Leapley at (661) 654-2650; Choi at (661) 868-0461; or Bradman at (510) 643-3023 or abradman@berkeley.edu.

A Change We Can Believe In??

A change we can believe in, I think not! If you have been following election coverage then you will remember this motto as said by Barack Obama. When I was watching the vice presidential debate I remember hearing Joe Biden saying "I have been in Senate for 30 years and my views are not going to change." Well I have a question for you Mr. Joe Biden what is Barack Obama promising? If Joe Biden is saying he will not change then why should anyone vote for you. Obama and Biden are saying they will change the world but how will they do that?

Also what is with all the secrecy about Obama's college years it seems he has gone through a great deal of trouble to keep his files secret. For the average middle class person I know you can agree with me that if we asked to get our files sealed they would not agree and possibly even laugh in our face.

Another thing I have to question is his pastor Reverened Wright. How can you go to a church for 20 YEARS and not hear anything like that? I have been going to my church practically my entire life and although I do sometimes zone out during the homily I still can tell you key things in his homily.

How can you vote for someone who says "And it's not surprising then that they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations," especially after he was supposedly having a great time in Pennslvania. I have done my best to read up on both the McCain/Palin and Obama/Biden tickets and I have found too many contradictions to Barack Obama.

Yes McCain may be old but they say "the older the wiser." Sarah Palin has been under fire about being qualified enough I'll give you that but first tell me how is Obama qualified enough? We all make mistakes but being able to own up to them is what makes a true leader. So if you ever have a chance ask Obama something about his college years or about his pastor and does he own up to them or say he has made mistakes? Then ask McCain about him cheating on his wife does he say it was his fault and he made a mistake? I beg everyone read up on these candidates with a nonbias mind, because this will be the only way we can get a great leader that will help with the reform of America.

May God Bless You And May God Bless America!!

How to protect yourself from identity theft

OCTOBER MARKS CRIME PREVENTION MONTH, IDENTITY THEFT IS #1 CRIME

TEMPE, Ariz. – (October 6, 2008) – As the number one crime in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, identity theft is a force to be reckoned with. This fast-growing crime is costing an estimated nine million Americans more than $1.2 billion annually. Most identity theft victims then spend countless hours trying to clean up the mess—three or more months on average, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). With October designated as National Crime Prevention Month, what better time for consumers to start educating themselves on the crime and how to effectively steer clear of it.

“At LifeLock, we feel strongly that consumers should be fully aware of the ways in which they are vulnerable to identity theft, along with the necessary steps they can take to protect themselves from it. National Crime Prevention Month is a time for experts in the field of identity theft to educate consumers so that we can all work together to lessen the damage inflicted by this crime,” says LifeLock CEO Todd Davis.

The state of Arizona has declared Identity Theft Awareness Week, October 13 – 17. During this week and Crime Prevention Month, LifeLock is teaming up with the FBI’s Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) to educate law enforcement throughout the state of Arizona. LifeLock will use this week as a way to further educate consumers on identity theft and empower them to start protecting themselves from the nation’s number one crime.

By now, most people have seen it on the news, heard about it from friends and family, and have undoubtedly seen the advertisements, but what can consumers do to proactively protect themselves from identity theft? Here are just some of LifeLock’s recommended, up-to-date pointers for consumers to consider when protecting their good name:

· Stay ahead of the game – If your personal information is breached by a company, do not rely on credit monitoring services as a solution. These services only alert you once you already have a problem and do nothing to keep a thief from using your information.

· When personal information goes public – Contact your local recorder’s office to find out if public records are available online and if any of the records contain social security numbers. If a record exists, you can request for your number to be redacted.

· Don’t neglect your mortgage credit – If you own a home, check with your mortgage holder on a regular basis to ensure your home-equity line-of-credit has not had any fraudulent activity.

· Call the police – Should you notice any fraudulent transactions in your bank or credit accounts or discover that you are a victim of identity theft, be sure to notify local law enforcement and file a police report. Without a report you will be unable to place a free credit freeze with the credit bureaus or be eligible for extended fraud alerts.

· Remove it or lose it – Take your social security card out of your wallet. Set aside a few minutes to memorize your number, and then you can keep that sensitive card at home, locked away in a secure place.

About LifeLock®

Founded in 2005, LifeLock works to close many of the doors identity thieves go through to misuse personal information. Closing in on 1.5 million members, LifeLock has earned multiple awards, including the Red Herring 100 Global Award as one of the Top 100 start-ups in the world. LifeLock was the recipient of two American Business Awards for advertising in 2008, and most recently, garnered an additional award honor for advertising from the International Business Awards. LifeLock representatives are available to assist members 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the company’s secure facility in Tempe, Ariz. LifeLock (www.lifelock.com) is a private company backed by Goldman Sachs, Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, as well as Bessemer Venture Partners.

Conference on challenges of women around the world: A tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

In celebration of the 139^th birthday of Mohandas Gandhi, 11^th Annual Bakersfield Interfaith Conference was held at Bakersfield College (BC) on Saturday morning. Gandhi, known as Mahatma (which means noble soul), used powerful weapons as truth and nonviolence in his fight against British rule to free India. A political saint who preached religious tolerance and equality is a great inspiration to many leaders around the world including Martin Luther King, Jr and Nelson Mandela. As a tribute to Gandhi, the conference was held on the challenges that women face around the world. Women from various ethnic backgrounds and different walks of life shared their experiences and opinions about both oppressed and triumphant women from east to west.

In her opening remarks, Bakersfield physician, Hansa Patel emphasized Gandhi’s view of women as powerful and capable part of the society. Women’s activist, Lucia Muñoz spoke about the femicide in her native country of Guatemala. She explained how women are seen as a threat in the post-civil war era in Guatemala and are killed by men. “It is hard to grasp as this is happening in 21^st century” she said of women being killed at a rate of two a day. She also commented that the focus of America is on war on the other side of the world while there is a war (of femicide) in our own backyard. She recently introduced White Ribbon Campaign, a movement started by Canadian men to end the violence of men against women, to Guatemala to educate children and younger adults with a hope to create a new generation of men to eradicate ‘this systemic problem’. Muñoz is associated with many volunteer organizations working for women’s rights.

Palestinian American, Karimeh Amin shared her experiences growing up in and during her visits to Palestine and commented on both the tenacity as well as oppression of women. A professor of social studies at BC, Amin said “Men and women have specific responsibilities towards each other based on religious duties.” She opined that Palestinian women’s struggle for existence is similar to that of many around the world. “There is so much poverty, lack of resources and unemployment due to the current political situation” she said, “but, there are women who are strong, educated, happy and determined.”

Another speaker Prabha Duneja gave a very positive talk about women and their prominent place in ancient Indian scriptures. “Solidarity of women depends on how much they are respected, involved in family matters and decision making” said Duneja, a religious scholar and a Hindu priest. She said that seclusion of women was unknown in ancient Indian community. “Women were very powerful in ancient India, but to protect their dignity from the atrocities of foreign invaders covering of the faces, child marriages and other practices were introduced.” Duneja said that social reforms eventually changed these practices and women excelled in all fields including politics after independence. Coming from a family of educated and well respected women, Duneja gave up her teaching profession to become a priest, a profession that is almost exclusively taken up by men. Emanating a strong and positive power of women, Duneja said that woman is the nucleus to the family and thus the society according to Hinduism and it is the responsibility of men, as a father, brother, husband or a son, to respect women.

Yuki Takeuchi, a professor at BC who teaches Japanese, gave her perspective of women from her experiences in Japan. “Women in Japan are not oppressed, but are expected to be submissive” she said of women who are treated as second class citizens in a male dominated society. Although women have equal opportunities for education, she said they are discriminated when it comes to getting a job or advancing in career. She recalled her own experience of being told that she was too old and had two degrees that would be useless, in an interview for a police officer position that she didn’t get. She was just 25 years old at that time. She said that it is very important for Japanese women to maintain silence, but she told the interviewers that it was their loss not to select her. Takeuchi emphasized the need for Japanese women to stand up for themselves.

Most of the speakers dressed in their ethnic attire and shed light on women’s issues around the world from their own perspective. Master of the ceremony, Neeraj Rama, an MBA student at CSUB, commented in his closing remarks that teachings of Mohandas Gandhi left a positive impact on the society and thanked the speakers for sharing their views for the empowerment of women. Following the talks, a question and answer session, moderated by CSUB professor Stafford Betty, elicited several interesting questions. Audience also shared their opinions on the women’s issues from American and international perspective.

________________________________________________________________________

Surendra Dara is an entomologist and founder of Laugh To Live (www.laughtolive.org)

Pyrenees-Fiesta to bridge Basque and Hispanic cultures

The Mendiburu Magic Foundation will host an exciting week filled with awards, community recognition, live music, silent/live auction, and wonderful dinner catered by The Pantry and Wool Growers.

The week will start with the 3rd Annual Nancy Ann Mendiburu Compassion Awards Benefit at the Wool Growers Restaurant on Tuesday: October 21, 2008 @ 6:00pm. The dinner will be hosted by Mendiburu Magic Foundation Founder/President, Brian Mendiburu and the Honorable Bakersfield Mayor, Harvey Hall. The benefit will honor local community contributors that have worked tirelessly to support positive youth development and cancer research for Kern County children & families, in memory of Nancy Ann Mendiburu. Some award recipients will include Mayie Maitia, Fr. Craig Harrison, William Rector, and Ron Fraze.

The fun-filled week will conclude with the 3rd Annual Pyrenees-Fiesta at 6:30pm on Saturday: October 25, 2008 at the Bakersfield Fire Fighter's Hall on Wible Road. The unique cross-cultural experience will be sensational; and join the Hispanic and Basque cultures of our area and include live music by Thee Majestics and Red Shoe Productions and dinner catered by The Pantry and Wool Growers. Dessert will be provided by Champs BBQ, Dreyer's Ice Cream, and La Rosa Frozen Fruit Bars. The evening will also include a stunning silent and live auction with the emcee Ian Gotler heading things for the event.

Please contact us at www.mendiburumagic.org for more information about the non-profit organization or events mentioned.

The Mendiburu Magic Foundation (MMF) will directly contribute to worthy community need, and in particular:

(1) Ongoing medical research for cancer

(2) Help children and families affected by any catastrophic or life threatening illness

(3) Community impact programs with an emphasis on positive youth development

The Mendiburu Magic Foundation is a non-profit public benefit organization that is a recognized 501c3 entity, according to the United States Internal Revenue Service. MMF was founded in loving memory of Nancy Ann Mendiburu on June 19, 2000.

Halloween on 20th Street

The Cousins (Griffin, Mimi, Lily and Hannah) take a picture with our biggest pumpkin this year. We finally harvested it after 4 months of growth. Unfortunately, it did not break our scale but at 247 lbs she is a beauty! The pumpkin is now on display at my sister's house as a big orange reminder to everyone to have a very Happy Halloween!

Skip's owner passes away, cat needs new home

Meow. My name is Skip and I’m very talkative and friendly. I’m 13 years old but I’m in good heath for my age. I’m a neutered, black and white short-hair domestic cat with piercing green eyes and am a long, sleek, 12 pounds. My owner has passed away and the other cat I lived with had to be been put down. I’m very sad and alone. I’m currently taking some medication, but it is inexpensive. I also have a special diet that’s more costly than regular cats. It costs about $40 a bag. The organization ResQcats is helping me temporarily and will pay for the first bag of food and case of canned food, as well as the first set of medication.

Adoption Procedure

Cats are adopted by application and an interview for a $50.00 fee from The Cat People at the Rosedale Petco most Saturdays from 10am until 4pm. If this particular cat has been lucky enough to have already been adopted there are many more cats just waiting to go home. For more information, please call 327-4706 or visit our website www.thecatpeople.org

Thank you.

PUBLIC INVITED TO GET A “TASTE OF SCOUTING”

These days Scouting is about a whole lot more than just tying knots. The Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America invites families to Sport Chalet at 5200 Stockdale Highway in Bakersfield on Saturday, October 18, 2008 anytime from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to get a “Taste of Scouting” and see just how far the program has come since it started in 1910 in the United States.

During the day, there will be continuous activities for the entire family to enjoy and take part in including the U.S. Army Climbing Wall, U.S. Army Simulator, Salvation Army Emergency Communications Van, Monkey Bridge and more. Since the day of this event coincides with the annual BSA shortwave radio event entitled “Jamboree On The Air” or J.O.T.A., local Ham Radio operators will be on site with their equipment and will allow the public to talk with Scouts and Scouters throughout the United States and around the world. There will also be an Internet version of this event called Jamboree On The Internet (J.O.T.I.) for those wishing to “blog” with Scouts throughout the country.

There will also be Fly Fishing demonstrations where scouts will demonstrate how to tie fish knots, talk about fish/wildlife management and equipment demonstrations by the Kern Flyfishers.

Any Cub Scout age boy whose parents sign him up in Cub Scouts on October 18^th will receive his own FREE Pinewood Derby Car Kit. These new Cub Scouts are encouraged to bring their finished cars back to the Council Pinewood Derby Race on March 14^th and race them in the heat associated with their age group. Pinewood Derby kits will be picked up by local pack leaders and issued to each new Cub Scout at a later pack or den meeting.

The entire day is free to the public. The Southern Sierra Council will have a recruiting table where families can sign up their Cub Scout (1^st through 5^th grade boys), Boy Scout (completed 5^th grade and is at least 10 years old or is age 11 but not yet 18 years old) or Venture Scout age boy or girl (at least 14 and completed the 8^th grade or 15 years of age but not yet 21). The pro-rated registration fee for all programs is $3.00 per member good through December of 2008. There will be a list of available units, contact names, phone numbers and times of meetings to assist parents with finding the right unit for their child. For additional information, contact the Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America at 661-325-9036 or the event chairman Ray Bays at 661-599-9030.

Come see why Scouting is a whole lot more than tying knots. It’s about building character, developing valuable skills, and having fun!

Kern County Animal Control Kicks Off Monthly Off-Site Adoption

Kern County Animal Control held the first of its monthly, volunteer-run, off-site adoptions on Saturday, Oct. 4, at the PETCO located at 8220 Rosedale Highway in Bakersfield.

Off-site adoptions involve taking adoptable animals from the shelter and placing them at a location where the public is able to view, interact and ultimately adopt the animal away from the shelter.

“We have many wonderful animals seeking loving forever homes, but not everyone is comfortable coming into a shelter to adopt a pet, even though they want to make adoption their first option,” said Maggie Kalar, Marketing & Promotions Associate for Kern County Animal Control. “These events will allow a portion of the public that may never have been able to step foot into the shelter, the same opportunity to adopt and love a wonderful shelter pet.”

The department has partnered with PETCO to provide a number of dogs available for adoption on the first Saturday of each month. The event will run from 10 am to 2 pm and every adopter will receive a PETCO coupon book, a starter bag of Science Diet food, a leash and a pet related DVD.

Kern County Animal Control would like to remind potential pet parents that responsible pet ownership requires more than simply agreeing to take an animal into their life; the potential adopter should be ready to make a commitment that will enhance the lives of both the human and the animal. People bringing a companion animal into their lives need to thoroughly review their lifestyle and their readiness to take responsibility for the animal's care. Kern County Animal Control advises people to consider the following five questions below before they adopt a dog:

Am I ready to make a long-term commitment? Adopting a pet means being responsible for its health and happiness for the rest of his or her life, this could be up to 15 years for dogs.
Is the animal right for my household? A strong, active pet may be too much for a young child or elderly person to handle. Small pets may be too delicate for rough play with children. Always make sure that everyone in the household agrees to adopt an animal.
Who will be the primary caretaker for the animal? One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the pet's needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.
Can I afford the animal? The cost of a pet is more than just the purchase price or adoption fee; remember to include the cost of food, pet supplies, veterinarian bills and training.
Am I ready to commit to making this dog a good canine citizen? A well-trained dog is a pleasure and is welcome in public parks, on walks, and as a visitor. Research shows that people who take the time to train their dogs are more likely to keep them longer than people who don't.

For more information, please contact 661-868-7104.

Businesses needed for upcoming events

We are searching for business

We would like to invite you to Baby Fest and Family

Expo 2009, the All I Want for Christmas and Pet Fest events.

They are Kern County’s #1 Top family Show, Expo & Shopping opportunity. The next event is the

All I Want for Christmas event and will be held on

Nov 15 and 16.

This event will feature ideas for

Christmas gifts that are not the same old thing.

BABY FEST and Family Expo on Saturday,

March 7, 2009. It is one of the largest most exciting

events for families in Kern County! We are expecting

over 8000+ guests. We are also in the planning stages for Pet Fest 2009. If you have a business or service that the community might like to know more about please contact us and we will make it happen. Please take a moment to look over the materials on our web page at www.baby-fest.com. Or you can call me directly at 661-679-7830.

All events offer exhibitors a direct marketing opportunity with Target consumers. They draw a highly targeted audience that is eager to shop, learn and have fun.

A $300.00 Deposit for Baby Fest and a $150.00 Deposit

for the Christmas and Pet Fest events and is all it takes to reserve your space. Please complete the application on line or print it out and

return it at your earliest convenience. Space is limited and filling quickly. Booth spaces will be determined by order of applications received. We will not place any competing vendors side by side.

The money raised at these events is used to start programs to educate new teen parents.

Thank you.

M&M Marketing and

The Doula Connection

Radiology Technology Program gets positive review at Bakersfield College

The Bakersfield College Radiologic Technology program has announced a completely compliant Accreditation review by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) following a two-day visit by a two-member Accrediting team. The results were announced at an Accreditation Exit Summation yesterday. A final report is expected by spring.

According to the review presented to Bakersfield College’s Radiologic Technology faculty, staff, students and clinical partners, the program is in complete compliance on the 71 objectives in nine standards of Accreditation for Radiologic Technology education. Accreditation team chair James Lampka, Program Director for Radiologic Technology at Regis College in Medford, Massachusetts, noted during the Accreditation Exit Summation this afternoon that it was his “pleasure to say that there are no ‘nos’ on the sheet. Bakersfield College met all 71 objectives.”

Radiologic Technology’s last Accreditation evaluation was in 2000, and program director Nancy Perkins is hopeful that this positive preliminary review will allow the program to stay on an eight-year review cycle. “Eight years is the longest Accreditation cycle that the committee awards,” explained Perkins. “Bakersfield College been on full, unrestricted Accreditation since the program’s inception in 1969.”

Of the nine standards, Lampka and team member Kellie Hart, Clinical Instructor at St. Francis Hospital/Health Center at the Indiana University School of Medicine, called attention to several aspects of the Bakersfield College program which proved exemplary. Most notable were the honors provided to the program’s clearly stated mission, goals and objectives, to the overall open and efficient lines of communication between program staff and college administration, as well as to the planning efforts for the program.

“This preliminary Accreditation report is evidence that Bakersfield College’s Radiologic Technology program is providing high-quality education and complies with accepted standards for providing an imaging technology education,” said Bakersfield College president Dr. Greg Chamberlain.

Graduates of Bakersfield College’s Radiologic Technology program are radiographers (also known as x-ray technologists), who perform imaging exams at the request of a physician. Bakersfield College has the only Radiologic Technology program in Kern County and began offering the classes in 1969 to help meet the demand for imaging professionals in the region. The program has strong student success numbers, with 100% of students passing the licensure exam from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in 2006, 2007 and 2008. For the last five years, Bakersfield College students have consistently scored higher than the national licensure mean.

For more information on Bakersfield College’s Radiologic Technology program, call program director Nancy Perkins at 661-395-4284.

600 Books Donated to At-Risk Children

Covenant Community Services CEO Randy Martin recently spoke to teachers and staff at the South Fork Union School District about the population of children they are teaching. The audience was surprised and appalled to hear the child abuse rates in their area. According to the Kern County Network for Children's Report Card 2008, the South Fork region (Weldon, South Lake, Onyx) has the 2^nd highest rate per capita for child abuse and neglect. This means there is an extreme at-risk population that needs to be reached. Statistics show that children with grade-level reading capabilities stand a better chance of overcoming their "at-risk" status.

Covenant organized a small book drive that would enable each child in the elementary school to receive one book. However, because of the generosity of Covenant supporters, 601 books were collected and delivered to the children in grades K-4^th. A special assembly was organized by Principal Robin Shive, and each child had the opportunity to sort through the books and pick out 4 that they would like to take home. Two members of the Covenant staff attended the assembly, and shared with the children the purpose of Covenant—to provide hope and love to children in need. The children were extremely excited to receive books. With smiles on their faces, and anticipation in the air, children explored the many books and chose stories they were excited to read. And, in addition to a huge “thank you!” yelled out by all the students, several students individually offered heart-felt thanks.

Principal Robin Shive expressed her immense gratitude and shared how these books will make a huge difference in not only in academics, but in home-life as well. Covenant continues to provide hope and love to children who are abused or at-risk; book drives, summer camps and birthday parties are the expression of that hope and love. For more information on how you can get involved contact Covenant at 661.326.8304.

Covenant Community Services is a faith-based, nonprofit organization serving the public through various social services including: foster care placement, transitional housing, mentoring, mental health and family preservation services. Contact information: http://www.covenantcs.net/ or 661/326-8304.

Big House Concerts tickets on sale now

Big House Concerts Celebrate First New Album in 10 Years

When: Fri. & Sat., Nov. 28 & 29, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, Bakersfield, CA

Contact: 661-328-7560

Last year's show sold out in near record time...don't get left out this year! Coming to the Crystal Palace Friday and Saturday November 28th and 29th...it's Big House! Once again...the original line-up of Big House at the Crystal Palace for 2 great shows! This year's shows will be extra special, as Big House will be celebrating the release of the first new studio album by the original line-up in 10 years! The album is called Never Ending Train and you can be among the first to get a copy, as they will be on sale for the first time at the Crystal Palace that night! Tickets for Big House at the Crystal Palace on November 28th and 29th go on sale Saturday October 4th at the Crystal Palace box office, all Vallitix locations or charge by phone, 661-328-7560. Don't miss out! Big House at the Crystal Palace November 28th and 29th. Be there!

March of Dimes — Bakersfield Signature Chefs Auction

The San Joaquin Community Hospital presents the March of Dimes Bakersfield Signature Chefs Auction at Holiday Inn Select/Marriott Hotels & Resorts in Bakersfield on Wednesday, October 29, 2008.

March of Dimes — Bakersfield Signature Chefs Auction is a premier culinary fundraising event featuring California Valley's finest Chefs who prepare extraordinary signature dishes and a fabulous silent and live auction.

Please call Renee Nuanes, March of Dimes at 661-369-1181 for further information.

CSUB to host debate on Prop. 8

California State University, Bakersfield’s Gay Lesbian Straight Student Network (GLSSN) is teaming with the Kegley Institute of Ethics to co-host a debate on Thursday, Oct. 9 on Proposition 8, the Eliminates Right of Same Sex Couples to Marry Act, which will appear on the November ballot.

The debate will feature two prominent advocates of the proposition, which seeks to change the state Constitution to recognize marriage only between a man and a woman. They will share the platform with two opponents of the proposition who support the recent state Supreme Court decision allowing same-sex marriage.

Yes on Proposition 8 panelists are local businessman Ken Mettler, who is leading the local campaign to pass the proposition, and The Bakersfield Californian columnist Marylee Shrider. Voicing their opinions against the proposition are local activist Whitney Weddell, who was among the first locally to marry her long-time partner, and Anne Duran, a CSUB psychology professor whose research includes gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning issues.

Introducing the event is Beatrice Huerta Moore, CSUB GLSSN president, and the debate moderator is Jacquelyn Kegley, chair of the CSUB philosophy/religious studies department.

The event will be held in the Student Union Multipurpose Room from 7 to 9 p.m. The event is free to the public and parking is free in Lot K after 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Please call (661) 654-2255 for further information.

How my Government is destroying my Golden Years

As a US Citizen I find that I have "no" rights in the following issue and am evidentally considered "fraudulent" by my own Government. .=The same Government that I once took an oath to defend and honor.

Very briefly I am 66 and a retired small business owner. In Nov. 2006 I married a lovely Chinese lady. (51) Her K3 Immig. visa was recently denied due to alleged "not BONA FIDE" relationship with me. We have as proof to the contrary, "700" very personal emails---many hours of phone records (we talk 4 to 6 hours each week) ---Western Union receipts of me sending her living and travel expenses---receipts of me sending her flowers for holidays, birthdays, anniversary----receipts from her sending many of her belongings to me---- about 100 pictures of us together in China and of our Wedding Ceremony. Does this sound like a non "bona fide" marriage?

Our now "low priority" USCIS (Homeland Security) case can not now be accessed for 12 to 18 months for appeal. My available years are slipping away as are my savings in that I'm now supporting "two" households. I will be forced to liquidate my belongings and move to China in order to finally be with my beloved wife if no help to reverse this bogus decision ether Politically or by Media exposure. (far away from my much needed VA healthcare and Medicare) Much more info available. Thanks---Norman Sellers valvue@gmail.com

Oscar: little terrier, big heart; Ricky: indoor kitty only

Hi! My name is Oscar and I am a neutered male, tan and white Wire-Haired Terrier mix. I am approximately three years old. I am looking for a new forever home. My friends at the shelter think that I would make a great pet for just about any family. I am a smaller breed, so my new family needs to make sure that my new home will be safe for me. I love to be held and enjoy playing with toys and people. Please come visit me at the Bakersfield Shelter at 201 S Mt. Vernon Avenue! Don't forget to mention my ID number - 736374!

Hi! My name is Ricky and I am a neutered male, white and black, domestic medium hair Tabby mix. I am approximately two years old. My owner was no longer able to care for me, so now I am at the shelter waiting to find my new forever home. I can't wait to meet my new family! My friends at the shelter think that I would do best as an indoor only kitty since I am declawed. I am a very sweet and loving kitty that loves to talk to people and play. Please come visit me at the Bakersfield Shelter at 201 S Mt. Vernon Avenue! Don't forget to mention my ID number - 652244!

These Pets May Be Adopted Quickly! Please Visit THE KERN COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER AT 201 S MT. VERNON AVENUE To See All Of Our Adoptable Pets. For More Information, Call 661-868-7144, Or Visit Our Website At www.co.kern.ca.us/acd.

Try my losing Spam recipe

After five years of saying I would, I finally entered the Spam cooking contest in the Kern County Fair this year. I lost. Big time. In fact, one of the judges seemed to grimace as she took a bite of my dish. After the contest, she asked me which entry was mine.

"I'm not saying! You wrinkled your face when you took a bite!" I said.

"No, no, no. I liked all the entries," she said with a smile that won me over.

"OK, mine was the Spam bites with pineapple-mango chutney," I said, sheepishly.

"Oh! That one was interesting!" she said.

Interesting is better than gross, so I'll take it. I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of Spam. But I sure did come up with a great chutney recipe to go with it. So even if you forego the Spam, make this chutney at home for any type of meat or Indian dish. I promise you'll like it!

Grilled Spam bites with pineapple-mango chutney

Ingredients:

2 12-oz. cans Spam Lite
2 fresh mangos, diced
4 oz crushed pineapple with juice
1/4 red onion, minced
1/4 cup raisins
1 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 jalapeño, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 bunch fresh cilantro

Make a paste by combining in a food processor the jalapeño, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon and olive oil. In a medium saucepan, cook the paste, stirring frequently, about 10 minutes.

In a bowl, combine mango, pineapple with juice, red onion, raisins, brown sugar and cider vinegar. Stir mango mixture into the saucepan with the paste and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until all the chunks break down and the mixture thickens, about 30 minutes.

Slice Spam into 1/2" steaks and grill over an indoor or outdoor grill. Remove Spam to a cookie sheet and cut each steak into four bit-sized squares. Spoon chutney onto the Spam squares and garnish each with a cilantro leaf.

Makes: About 40 appetizers. Note: Leftover chutney can be chilled up to one month.

Plant Sale for Gardening with Natives

On October 11th, opening at 9am, the Kern Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will hold its annual sale of native plants on the CSUB campus near FACT. CSUB is located at 9001 Stockdale Hwy, enter on the south side of the campus off Camino Media. A large selection of plants appropriate to various habitats in Kern County will be available. At 10:00am, a presentation will be made by Bonnie East on Gardening with Natives.

Through our annual fall plant sale, we promote California's true landscape. Most man-made landscapes in California are examples of gardens from other parts of the world, while California actually has a tremendous range of different landscapes, with different vegetations.

Through planting native gardens in our yards, or even native pocket gardens, you can support local birds, butterflies, and other beautiful creatures that have used native plants for thousands of years for food or living places. This is especially important to do, as land undergoes development, and we lose natural habitats.

Once native gardens are established, usually within a year, native plants require less maintenance than many common garden plants. They require no fertilizer, pesticides, little pruning, and less water. Native plants survive in nature with only rainfall for irrigation. We can take advantage of low water-use species in our gardens, which saves money and conserves a vital resource.

On October 11, we will be selling plants that thrive in the many natural habitats of Kern County. Plants for five types of gardens will be displayed: Shade, Sun, Mountain Meadow, Kern Chaparral, and a Cutting Garden. Our member gardeners will be present to help shoppers choose plants that will grow best in the mini-habitats of the shoppers' gardens. Also on sale will be seed packets of Hummingbird Plants and Butterfly Mix, and native plant books to advise gardeners throughout the year.

CNPS is a state-wide, non-profit organization of amateurs and professionals with a common interest in learning about and preserving California's native plants. Locally, we meet monthly for socializing, practicing identifying native plants using a floral "key", and for a program on gardening, plant or habitat conservation, or plants of a specific region. In the spring and summer, we sponsor wildflower walks, trips to native gardens or arboretums, and field trips to ever higher elevations as the seasons change to see our natives in the wild. We offer stewardship opportunities at local preserves, usually by pulling exotic weeds, followed by a picnic. We also provide monetary prizes to the winners of the "Plant Biology" category at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Science Fair. You are invited to participate in our activities, and to join the Kern Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. Visit our website at www.CNPS.org.

Consider adopting this poodle mix

This precious girl named Lillie is about 7 months old and is a poodle mix. She will be spayed before going home with a new family. She is a sweet, happy, playful pup and would do well in any type of home.

To adopt: Wasco Animal Shelter, 5409 7th St., 758-7240. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. PetSmart adoptions, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, 4100 Ming Ave., Bakersfield.

Puppy needs a home

This 10-week-old girl named Ditto is looking for a family to love and a home to call her own. She will grow up to be a big girl. We think Ditto is a Queensland mix. She (so far) has been a nice, calm puppy, but does get playful.

To adopt: Wasco Animal Shelter, 5409 7th St., 758-7240. Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. PetSmart adoptions, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, 4100 Ming Ave., Bakersfield.

Honey needs a diet guru

Honey is a 6-year-old female Shepherd/Chow mix who has just come back from a day at the spa. Honey was bathed, groomed and now has two green bows in her ears. She is a sweet and friendly girl looking for a new home. Honey is a little overweight so could use a diet dog food program along with plenty of exercise. Come take Honey out for some fun in the play yard and you'll fall in love.

To adopt her: Bakersfield SPCA, 3000 Gibson St., 323-8353, www.bakersfieldspca.org. Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; noon to 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month at CSUB

In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, California State University, Bakersfield will launch a month-long series of events beginning with a special presentation Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 10 a.m. in the Albertson Room on campus.

The activities are sponsored by CSUB’s Counseling Center, the Criminal Justice Club, University Police Department and the Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault.

“I’m really excited that our campus is involved in these activities,” said Janet Millar, CSUB interim director for the Counseling Center. “It clearly tells us that domestic violence doesn’t happen to someone else. It shows us that we’re all impacted.”

Following an informational session, CSUB will offer ribbons for those who have been affected by domestic violence. The ribbons will be tied on trees around campus to raise awareness of domestic violence throughout the month.

CSUB’s National Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities are as follows:

- Wednesday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m., Albertson Room

The official launch of CSUB’s recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month begins at this special ceremony. Doris Hall, criminal justice professor, will lead a discussion about the effects of domestic violence on those who witness it. Also, join CSUB community members and tie purple ribbons on trees around campus to raise awareness of domestic violence prevention.

- Tuesday, Oct. 14, 6:30 p.m., Student Union patio

Participants are invited to bring a poem or song they would like to recite in honor of victims of domestic violence.

- Wednesday, Oct. 22, 11 a.m., Business Development Center, room 154B

Visitors will join a discussion about domestic violence and the impact it has on first responders.

- Friday, Oct. 24 through Sunday, Oct. 26

University Police will host the Rape Aggression Defense System class, a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women. The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. R.A.D. is not a martial arts program. University Police and staff are nationally certified instructors. They will teach the courses and provide each student with a workbook/reference manual. Make reservations by calling (661) 654-2111.

For additional information about the awareness month, please contact Millar at (661) 654-3366.

HIRE Luncheon kicks off disability awareness month

Event: Mayor Harvey L. Hall presents the HIRE Luncheon

Day: Wednesday; October 1, 2008

Time: 11:30AM – 1:30PM

Place: Doubletree Hotel – California Grill Room

Interviews: Available -- Green Room Available

Guests: Mayor Hall, Congressman Kevin McCarthy (Representative), Assemblywoman, Jean Fuller (Representative), Keynote Speaker: Michael D’Amore (photo attached),

Asst. Secretary, California Health & Human Services, Megan Juring

Contact: Marlene B. Heise 323-8594 (wk); heisemedia@sbcglobal.net

www.hire-us.net

Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Mayor Harvey L. Hall and the HIRE Committee will kick off National Disability Employment Awareness Month with the HIRE (Helping Incorporate Reliable Employees) Luncheon.

Awards will be given to innovative employers (Employer of the Year), the extraordinary employees (Employee of the Year) and those (Humanitarian of the Year) that champion the cause of equal opportunity and independence for people with disabilities within our community.

Hear Keynote speaker, actor Michael D’Amore’s story and discussion of “Talent Knows No Limits.” Mr. D’Amore will provide an inspirational speech to all in attendance reinforcing his message of “Live hard, play hard and try it all”. (www.imbd.com for bio)

The HIRE Committee is a public-private partnership supported by Mayor Hall’s office, which brings together job seekers with disabilities and employers. The HIRE Committee is a collaborative network of community public and non-profit agencies serving people with disabilities.

Mayor Harvey L. Hall’s HIRE Luncheon is sponsored by: Bakersfield West Rotary Foundation, The Bakersfield Californian, and the California Health Incentives Improvement Project (CHIIP).

Join Mayor Harvey L. Hall and the HIRE Committee in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness month in October!

Tule boating on CSUB campus

Two hundred twenty years ago, Lake Mohave filled the California desert to depths exceeding 200 feet, with a drainage of 3,500 square miles. Buena Vista and Kern Lake, near what is now Bakersfield, covered nearly 100 square miles to depths exceeding 50 feet.

The Kawaiisu Tribe travelled these lakes in tule boats, watercraft made from a tubular tule reed (seh-vi) that grows in marshy areas.

Last week, students at California State University, Bakersfield built a Kawaiisu Tule boat (paaga seh-vi) and took it for a ride on campus in a pond north of the dorms. They used tule reeds collected in the Kern River Valley near Lake Isabella. The students are enrolled in a course thru the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The class is called California Tribal Arts and is taught by Kawaiisu elder David Laughing Horse Robinson. Students experience the traditions of California Indians as they have been practiced for more than 10,000 years. Indigenous math, painting, basketry and archery are taught in the old way of the Kawaiisu People.

The course meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m. in the Performing Arts building on the CSUB campus.

Tips for Cheating on Your Diet II

There are many valid reasons for being on a diet, and just as many reasons for cheating on that same diet. Unfortunately those two things cancel each other out. But a “good cheat” can be justified once in awhile, with very little harm.
    I have already written about my “ice cream fetish” so now is the time for another favorite of mine, breakfast! Nothing better in the morning than to go out for bacon, eggs, and hash browns, don’t forget the coffee. Lots of old time “greasy spoons” downtown, in Tehachapi, in Taft, all make for a great motorcycle ride and meal.
    Here is a “breakfast cheat” — motorcycle ride not included.
   You must start with a trip to the grocery store, on your bicycle of course. If that doesn’t appeal to you then a high mileage hibryd will do, but if that V8 truck is your only option, coast all the way! Be sure not to tailgate and watch out for all the bicycles heading for the same store.
   Conveniently located on opposite sides of the store you will need to buy first an egg substitute. Made from egg whites, they are fat free, not perfect taste but if you buy the name brand and not the store brand they are not too bad. Second, you must find the meat substitutes, the sausage is soy based; do not curl up your nose.
The taste and texture are very good, really! Last but not least you will head for the vegetables, what ever you like. I prefer mushrooms and a little onion, some may prefer green peppers (Yuck) but nothing is wrong with tomatoes, garlic, or Italian squash. I am getting hungry just thinking about it.
   Once you are back home reach way to the back of the cabinet and get out the “big skillet”, all this food will start to add up. A low calorie cooking spray is already in your kitchen, right? If not, shame on you, and back on the bicycle you go!
   Hot skillet, sliced veggies, sliced sausage, and an aroma that will wake up the spouse is in store for you. After these things are browned, pour eggs over and stir. Season to taste. All of the flavors combined make this a great tasting breakfast, and a healthy meal! Bon a petite. (Rachel, is that how you spell that?)

CSUB to host seminar on fire hazard reduction

California State University, Bakersfield’s School of Natural Science and Mathematics presents its first seminar of the academic year titled “Balancing Fire Hazard Reduction and Resource Protection in an Era of Megafires” on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. in Science Building III, room number 108.

Jon Keeley, world renowned expert in fire ecology and a research ecologist with the United States Geological Service Sequoia and Kings Canyon Field Station, will discuss the important issue of fire and its effects on landscape.

“Southern California is home to millions of people and has long been an attractive destination because of the pleasant climate and stunning natural beauty,” Keeley said. “However, southern California’s beauty is deceptive and the region is prone to violent natural disasters. One of the most devastating of these disasters is fire. Fire is a natural and recurrent disturbance in southern California’s wildlands that was shaping the evolution of the region long before humans colonized the new world. But as humans have arrived in California in ever increasing numbers they have altered the natural fire cycle and this alteration is accelerating.”

The seminar is being funded through a $400,000 National Science Foundation grant awarded to CSUB. The grant provides scholarships for CSUB science, math, and engineering majors and allows CSUB’s School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics to offer a lecture series of interest to science students, faculty and the general public.

NSF is an independent federal agency created to promote the progress of science. The agency funds specific research proposals that have been judged the most promising by a rigorous and objective merit-review system.

The seminar is free and open to the public.

For additional information, contact Tom Meyer at (661) 654-2104.

Bakersfield College offers free flu shots

Like the coming of fog and rain, Bakersfield citizens know and expect another winter recurrence – flu. That means it’s also time to get your flu shot, and Bakersfield College is offering free flu shots to help prepare the community for the virus. On October 24, Bakersfield College is partnering with local public agencies to practice mass vaccination techniques, and will provide free flu shots to the community in a drive through clinic running from 1 – 4 p.m.

The purpose of the clinic is to provide a free flu vaccine to residents and also to exercise the mass vaccination plans which are designed to ensure that health professionals and volunteers are prepared to vaccinate or dispense medication to a large population in a very short period of time. If Bakersfield was ever to experience pandemic influenza or another such disaster, it might be necessary to distribute medications to many citizens quickly.

Mildred Lovato, vice president of student services at Bakersfield College and incident commander for this exercise, explained, “The time to practice dispensing large amounts of medication is now, before we have a disaster. It’s also important for all people in Bakersfield to receive a flu shot. Roughly 36,000 Americans die each year from complications of flu. Getting a shot is the best protection.”

Mass vaccination exercises help the Public Health Department prepare for emergencies by testing their ability to vaccinate thousands of people within a few hours. During the October 24 exercise, visitors will enter the drive-through clinic at Bakersfield College’s southeast parking lot adjacent to Memorial Stadium through marked entrances off Mt. Vernon.

Bakersfield College’s student nurses will administer the shots to individuals in vehicles, which mimics the actual vaccination process during an emergency. The entire process will be closely monitored to help public agencies better work together. More than 1,000 vaccines will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are free to the community.

Children 17 or younger must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age to receive a vaccination is nine years old.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and results in 25-50 million infections and 36,000 deaths in the United States each year.

Influenza symptoms include fever (usually high), headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, muscle aches, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose, and occasionally stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

The influenza virus is spread through coughing or sneezing and by touching a hard surface with the virus on it and then touching your nose or mouth. The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year.

You cannot catch the flu from the vaccination. The vaccination uses a dead virus and cannot cause you to get the flu. The vaccine usually becomes effective two weeks after being administered; therefore, the best time to be vaccinated is October to November. However, it can still be beneficial to get the vaccine even later as typical flu season runs from mid-December through March.

Though all persons over 6 months of age should get a flu shot each year, those most at risk for influenza disease complications are: those in nursing home; individuals over 50 years of age; persons with chronic diseases of the heart, lung, and kidneys, or who have diabetes, asthma, immunosuppression, or severe forms of anemia; women who may be pregnant during flu season; children and teens on long-term aspirin therapy. Children six months through five years of age should receive the flu vaccine due to the increased probability of severe illness in this age group. Daycare situations make these children especially vulnerable. Health care workers are also at greater risk for passing influenza infection on to high-risk individuals and should be vaccinated.

An influenza vaccination offers 70 percent to 90 percent protection against infection and can decrease the severity and side effects if you do get sick.

Collaborating agencies are Bakersfield College, Kern County Department of Public Health, Kern Medical Reserve Corps, Salvation Army, Bakersfield Fire Department, Kern Medical Center, local Community Emergency Response Teams, Hall Ambulance and the Bakersfield Police Department.

For more information on the drive through clinic and the free flu shots, contact Amber Chiang at 661-395-4256.

CSUB welcomes local authors for writer series

California State University, Bakersfield will welcome two local authors to kick off the fourth annual California Writers Series on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. in the Dezember Reading Room of the Walter Stiern Library.

James Sepsey, who earned his bachelor’s degree in English from CSUB and is now enrolled as a graduate student, teaches at Delano High School. He writes fiction and has published short stories, including one in the literary journal, Glimmer Train, which won second place in the magazine’s Short-Story Award for New Writers competition.

Charles Hood, the second author, dropped out of college nine times and then went on to earn degrees from CSU Northridge and UC Irvine. He has published six books of poetry and prose, including “Bombing Ploesti,” “Río de Dios,” “Under the African Air” and “The Half-life of Salt.” Hood teaches at Antelope Valley College and is a contributing editor to the Los Angeles Review.

Books will be available for sale and signing.

The California Writers Series brings established and upcoming writers living and working in California to the CSUB campus every year to read from their works. “We had an auspicious beginning as the first writer to read in our series, poet Kay Ryan, was recently named Poet Laureate of the United States,” said Marit MacArthur, English professor.

“All of us read many writers who can feel, at first, remote from our time and place,” she continued. “The California Writers Series hopes to offer students, faculty and staff, and members of the community the transformative and inspiring experience of encountering the work of living writers who live in the same, strange and wonderful state of California that we do, and discussing the creative process with them.”

The event is sponsored by Sigma Tau Delta, the English Honors Society and CSUB’s Associated Students, Inc.

For more information, contact Emerson Case at (661) 654-6281.

Competitive Swimming for Young Athletes

Beijing’s Summer Olympics and the success of American swimmers such as Michael Phelps did much to increase national interest in the sport of swimming. Since the conclusion of the games less than one month ago, USA Swimming, the national governing organization for swimming in the United States, has seen a five percent surge in participation in swimming programs.

Locally, swimmers of all ages are taking to pools across Bakersfield for a glimpse of the chlorinated world that made swimmers such as Phelps famous. While many are seeking casual respite from the searing summer heat, others are starting to experience competitive swimming for the very first time.

At Bakersfield College, competitive swimming is being brought to local elementary school students through a program designed to introduce younger children to competitive swimming in order to prepare them for high school and college teams. Born out of the college’s annual summer swimming lesson program, this year’s program includes 100 students from six elementary schools from the immediate area around Bakersfield College, 43 alone from Dr. Juliet Thorner Elementary.

“Each year we have swimming lessons here at Bakersfield College, and each year we are asked if we have anything else to offer these children,” explained Tina Cummings, Bakersfield College Aquatics Director. “We decided to pilot a program with Thorner last year and had 25 students in the program. Word of mouth carried the program to other schools and now we have 100 students.”

The elementary swim program is an introduction to competitive swimming techniques.

Information was distributed to families through the schools and the six teams were formed. Teams are from both public and private elementary schools.

Cost for the program is $125 per student for the eight week season and includes a team t-shirt, awards, meet entries, ribbons and a banquet at the end of the season. Fees from the program benefit the Bakersfield College Swim Team and the pool facilities. Parents provide transportation to and from the program, with many watching and cheering from under popup tents with fans in soaring temperatures.

At the start of the eight week season, students are tested on their swimming ability and provided additional instruction by Bakersfield College Swim Team members who have taught during the summer lesson series.

Students from Kindergarten through sixth grade participate and are separated into groups for specialized instruction, from basic stroke and breathing management through more advanced techniques to generate power. All that is required to participate is the ability to swim a lap of freestyle in Bakersfield College’s small pool.

At the end of the eight week season, the schools in the program will compete in a meet against one another with prizes and awards to all teams participating.

“We are really just hoping to introduce swimming to students in elementary schools who wouldn’t have the option,” said Cummings.

Bakersfield College will be starting a high school development program for junior high and high school students in November which will run through January. The program will be an introduction to swimming for new swimmers and a conditioning program for returning high school swimmers. The pools at Bakersfield College are heated, so participants don’t have to worry about swimming in cold weather.

“Training in the winter is really a way to get into shape for the spring season,” said Cummings. “Students who participate in the winter session will be ready for the high school swim season at their school.”

To find out more about the competitive swimming programs at Bakersfield College, call Tina Cummings at 395-4663.

Recent Posts : Bakersfield.com