Photos: Bakersfield.com

Lightning Strike starts fire

Fire in mountains south of the Kern Canyon, looking from Rio Bravo

Spring 2011

THE NEW BUCK OWENS POST OFFICE

THE BUCK OWENS POST OFFICE FIRST RUBBER STAMPING

Hank Ray in front of KUZZ truck

John Owens signing autographs

Auto owned by KUZZ radio

Hank Ray with sheriff Donny Youngblood

Hank Ray with Congressman Kevin McCarthy

Dr. BLT with Buddy Allen Owens.

Buddy Owens with Hank Ray

John Owens with Mike

DATA FROM EYE STREET, BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN:

JOHN AND BUDDY OWENS SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS

Buck Owens Post Office unwrapped on Buck's birthday
By JOE BOESEN, Californian staff writer
jboesen@bakersfield.com | Tuesday, Aug 12 2008 3:01 PM
Last Updated: Tuesday, Aug 12 2008 2:53 PM
The Minner Station Post Office in Oildale was officially renamed “Buck Owens Post Office” Tuesday — the same day as the late country singer’s birthday. Several hundred people gathered in the morning to celebrate the man who made Bakersfield famous.
Under a white tent at 118 Minner Ave., Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, Owens’ sons Buddy, Mike and John, along with his nephew Mel Owens, unveiled a plaque in Owens’ honor.
“Dad would’ve been really, very proud,” said Buddy Owens before the plaque was revealed. “My dad loved Bakersfield and he loved the fact that his name was attached to it.”
Those in attendance sang “Happy Birthday” to Owens before the sheet was lifted to show the plaque.
Bakersfield Postmaster James Brouillard and McCarthy also gave speeches about Owens and his impact on the city.
“The post office is an important part of people’s lives and Buck was an important part of Bakersfield,” Brouillard said.
McCarthy commented that passing the bill to get the post office renamed for Buck Owens was a time of great partisanship in Congress.
“If we could continue with that spirit on other legislation, we would be a lot better off,” he said to laughter from the audience.
Buck Owens Post Office is about a block from Buck Owens Production Co. and the studio where Owens spent almost 20 years recording later in his career. The post office is also where he sent his sons to respond to fan mail.
“We licked a lot of stamps at the office,” Buddy said.
After revealing the plaque, the ceremony moved inside where the Owens family cut his birthday cake.
"If Buck saw the post office named after him," his nephew Mel Owens said, “He would’ve said ‘Wow, I did something right along the way to get such an honor.’”
The Owens family donated Buck Owens memorabilia to hang in the lobby. The office was also rehabbed by the United States Postal Service before the ceremony.
Those attending the ceremony remembered Owens as a giving man and an excellent entertainer.
“I would see him at Hodel’s,” said Oildale resident Alice Brown, whose children went to school with Owens’ sons. “He just seemed like a regular guy.”
Hank Decato knew Owens as a great song writer and entertainer.
“He did so much for Bakersfield and never got credit. He didn’t want the credit,” he said. “He helped so many people down on their luck and nobody knew because he kept it quiet.”

The Bakersfield Panorama

If you want to join the great outdoors in Bakersfield, head over to the Bakersfield Bluffs.

With a outsanding view over the hills of oildale, you'll be sure to come back and revisit wheather you want to exersize or just have a little fun with family. Joining the bluffs on a spring season cannot get any better than this.

PSN Elk Hills Makes Donation to Local Hospital Burn Unit

Pictured: Kevin Burton, President: San Joaquin Community Hospital Foundation (left) Kevin Elliott, HES Coordinator: PSN Elk Hills (center) Steve Bowen, HES Coordinator: PSN Elk Hills (right). Representatives from PSN Elk Hills donated $500.00 to the Grossman Burn Unit at San Joaquin Community Hospital. The donation was made to help purchase games and toys for children at the hospital.

Bakersfield Driver

Caliente Creek Road

Caliente Creek caused extensive damage to the road between Caliente and Twin Oaks. The creek is still running higher than normal and is over the road in several places. Kern County Roads Department has closed the road but a careful driver in a high clearance vehicle can make it through to Twin Oaks. 12/28/10

Parking Dilema

faces

for more information call me at 661-748-2550

March for Babies 2010

The Annual March of Dimes March for Babies event was held at Liberty Park in Bakersfield on Saturday, April 17th. Local business and family teams raised funds and awareness for prematurity and birth defects.

Fallen Tree

Early Easter morning a large tree fell across Rio Linda Dr. near Garces High School. A car was struck and efforts were being made to clear the tree from the roadway.

Wild flowers on Breckenridge Rd.

A picture I took from Breckenridge Rd. on 3/28/2010

Orchards in Full Bloom

The blooming almond orchards this time of year are so beautiful that they instantly became a magical place for my two girls to play and dream....not to mention take some great pictures :)

Levan Institute Opens Classes for Spring Semester

Gone are the days of riding into the sunset of retirement. Today’s retiree is looking for ways to enrich their life, and Bakersfield College is presenting a new educational opportunity for residents 55 and better.

Through the 2006 $5.7 million gift from local dermatologist Dr. Norman Levan, Bakersfield College is announcing the Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning, which opens for its second semester in late January. The purpose of the Institute is to make interesting and useful learning experiences available primarily to those 55 and better who are interested in continuing to gain knowledge throughout their lives.

“The Levan team continues to work hard to bring a series of courses which are interesting, insightful and relevant to our community,” said chair Dr. Robert Allison. “Each session will introduce new courses and courses which are applicable to what is currently happening in our society.”

Course topics include gardening and plant care, soapmaking, silversmithing, drawing, photography, music, personal finance, astronomy, wine appreciation and many more. A full schedule of courses is available in the Spring 2010 Catalog and Schedule, which can be requested by calling 395-4431 or checking online at bakersfieldcollege.edu/levaninstitute.

While the courses offered by the Institute are primarily designed to address the interests of seniors, they are open to all adults. Courses vary in length and subject, and with just two exceptions, are outside the “credit” sphere of the college.

“We have tried to provide a curriculum that will appeals to the wide spectrum of interests of those living in our community,” said committee member Ned Gilfillan. “We hope that we have succeeded in providing a range of topics that will interest many people.”

Classes take place on various days and at various times to fit all schedules. Check the course schedule for full information on dates and times. Fees vary by course and some courses will require books or materials. Check the course schedule for full information on fees and materials.

For more information on the Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning, please contact Dr. Bob Allison at 395-4431 or at rallison@bakersfieldcollege.edu

Spring 2010 Levan Courses by Date

1.) The Art and Science of Home Beer Brewing – Saturdays, January 23 – February 13, noon-2 p.m.

2.) Buddhist Philosophy and Meditation – Mondays, February 1-March 15, 6:30-8 p.m.

3.) Silversmithing – Tuesdays, February 2-March 23, 6-9 p.m.

4.) The Internet for Beginners – Tuesdays, February 2-23, 6-7:30 p.m.

5.) Italian Language and Culture – Tuesdays, February 2-March 9, 6-8 p.m.

6.) Advanced Silversmithing – Thursdays, February 4-March 25, 6-9 p.m.

7.) Pilates for Seniors – Thursdays, February 4-March 25, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

8.) Basic Robotics – Thursdays, February 4-May 6, 6-9 p.m.

9.) A Short Course in Drawing – Tuesdays, February 9-March 16, 1-4 p.m.

10.) A Beginner’s Guide to Computers – Tuesdays, February 16 & 23, 6-8 p.m.

11.) Beginning Photography – Wednesdays, February 17-March 17, 6-8 p.m.

12.) How to Write Better or Less Worse – Wednesdays, February 17-March 24, 6-7:30 p.m.

13.) Writing Your Memoirs – Thursdays, February 18-March 4, 1-4 p.m.

14.) Woodcrafting for Beginner’s – Fridays, February 19-March 26, 9-11:30 a.m.

15.) Wonderful World of Wine – Mondays, February 22-March 22, 5:30-6:45 p.m.

16.) Wine 202-French Connection – Tuesdays, February 23-March 23, 5:30-6:45 p.m.

17.) History of the Old West – Tuesdays, February 23-March 23, 6-9 p.m.

18.) Painting in Progress – Mondays, March 1-April 12, 6-9 p.m.

19.) Pine Needle Decorated Gourds – Tuesdays, March 2-16, 3-5 p.m.

20.) Microsoft Office: Word – Tuesdays, March 2-23, 6-8 p.m.

21.) Mapping the Afterlife – Wednesday, March 3-17, 7-8:30 p.m.

22.) Ancient Art of Astrology-Wednesdays, March 3-April 14, 6-7:30 p.m.

23.) Dream Interpretation – Thursdays, March 4-April 15, 6-7:30 p.m.

24.) Machu Picchu – Monday, March 8, 6-8 p.m.

25.) Acrylic Painting- Tuesday & Thursday, March 9 & 11, 6-9 p.m.

26.) Oil Painting – Tuesday & Thursday, March 16 & 18, 6-9 p.m.

27.) Landscape Photography – Wednesdays, March 17-April 21, 6-9 p.m.

28.) Art of Soapmaking – Thursdays, March 18 & 25, 6-9 p.m.

29.) Spiritually Inspiring Films – Monday, March 22-May 3, 6:30-8 p.m.

30.) Watercolor Painting – Tuesday & Thursday, March 23 & 25, 6-9 p.m.

31.) Digital Slide Show Presentations – Wednesday, March 24-May 5, 6-8 p.m.

32.) Exploring California’s Wineries – Saturday, March 27, 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

33.) Microsoft Office: Excel – Tuesday, April 6-27, 6-8 p.m.

34.) Writing a Short Story – Wednesday, April 7-28, 3-4:30 p.m.

35.) Personal Finance in Turbulent Times – Thursday, April 8-29, 6-8 p.m.

36.) Enjoyment of Jazz – Tuesday, April 13-27, 6-8 p.m.

Bakotopia Radio: Jim Ranger / Kern County Rollergirls / Nick Belardes: 2-7-10!

WELCOMES
BAKERSFIELD MOVERS N' SHAKERS...
(CLICK PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE MORE IN-STUDIO PIX!)
JIM RANGER FROM AMERICAN IDOL
AND SOULAJAR!

THE KERN COUNTY ROLLERGIRLS!

AND
AUTHOR NICK BELARDES!

American Idol contestant Jim Ranger in Concert

American Idol contestant Jim Ranger in Concert

Friday, February 19 @ 7pm
at New Life Center located at 4201 Stine Road Bakersfield, CA 93313

This will be a FREE concert that you will

not want to miss!

BALD EAGLES IN LAKE ISABELLA

photos I took sunday near french gulch lake Isabella of a 2-3 yr old bald eagle. a beautiful sight to see.

The Big Boys came out to Play

The sun came out on Saturday, January 23 for the first time in a week after some much needed rain. As a result, The Park at River Walk was overflowing with people who had been "cooped up" for too long, including this group of big boys who came out to play.

Tree lands on Car

Tree uprooted from wind. A tree feel over on a car in Oildale early Monday morning. The tree fell so hard that parts of it landed two houses up the street. The car will more and likely be a total due to the damages acrued by the tree. The tree has not had greenery on it for some years. It was just a matter of time the tree was going to fall.

Downtown Bakersfield

Photo taken with my Sony Cyber-Shot DSH-H20 in easy mode.

WOW New Patch Shaman Talents

"I think it would be bigger news that the World of Warcraft has hit 11."In World of Warcraft, shaman is the Shaman has three talent trees, Elemental which ranged magical damage, Enhancement which controls the melee damage, and Restoration that major on the healing. 5 million subscribers.These special powers make the shaman be one of the most major classes in the World of Warcraft. That data is been recently announced that the WoW has hit another milestone.Shaman is a versatil class that could make you gains much of World of Warcraft gold and can act as a mage, priest, or rogue. This really comes as no surprise after the release of an expansion, especially one as widely hyped as Wrath of the Lich King which broke a few records of its own. In new patch, the game developer introduce the new function of Shaman talents.the below will provide you the details of shaman talents. *Enhancement Enhancement is quite a complex talent.in new patch there are some change major in Maelstrom Weapon and Shamanistic Rage. Gamesindustry.When you start it, you need to read the details and understand each of them function in order to make more wow gold profit in the combat. biz has a quote from Senior VP of merchandising at GameStop Bob McKenzie, indicating that it's not just Wrath of the Lich King doing well. Maelstrom Weapon: Maelstrom Weapon could reduce the cast time of Hex in the fighting. These numbers haven't spiked because of all of the returning customers, WoW is gaining plenty of new ones, too. Shamanistic Rage: Cooldown has been cut down to 1 minute. The base WoW package and the World of Warcraft Battle Chest are still doing quite well.You have chance to generate mana equal to 15% down from 30% of the shaman's attack power once you win the melee attacks. *Restoration Restoration talent in some aspect makes the Shaman into a healer. Better than last year, he specifies.One of the extremely useful talents is Nature's Swiftness and Mana Tide is of nearly legendary fame. power level So while those base package purchases are certainly fueled by the Wrath hype.and Earth Shield is a very good 41 point talent. it's bringing in new customers, not just the returning customers.If you want to get the best multi-target heal in the game, you need to buy cheap wow gold to level up the Chain Heal. power level WoW may not be the kind of game for every gamer out there, and the game isn't without its flaws. Ancestral Healing: The buff from this ability now reduces the physical damage taken by the target by 3/7/10% instead of increasing the target's armor. Despite that, it has proven over and over that it's by far one of the best games out there, and definitely the best of its genre. Cure Poison and Cure Disease: Combined into a single spell, Cure Toxins. wow leveling I don't expect it will be going away anytime soon. Earth Shield: Dispel effects will now remove charges of Earth Shield rather than the entire aura. I think, World of Warcraft has become the most famous and interesting online game in most wow players’ eyes. Improved Water Shield: Improved Water Shield talent would make you has a 10/20/30% chance to be triggered by Chain Heal, and the charges of Water Shield are no longer consumed by this talent. wow leveling Buy WOW Gold, WOW CDKeys and WOWwow powerleveling powerleveling as a holiday gift for friends and your family, cheap WOW gold is for sale at holiday season! Take this opportunity, happy hunting in your WOW world. All in all，you will find that pay some attention to improve the talent points of Shaman would gain much of profit in the combat or you will lost much World of Warcraft money and easily die from the powerful attack. Last month." . wow leveling service Wrath of the Lich King is released and millions of players around the world have stormed the shores of Borean Tundra and Howling Fjord. More than 4 million copies of the new expansion were sold in the first month of release --a new record for PC-game sales. wow lvl Meanwhile, to go along with that record, World of Warcraft’s global community has now grown to more than 11. 5 million subscribers. wow power leveling Read more about these latest achievements in the Blizzard Entertainment official press release. and from all of us at DOCOIN, happy holidays, thank you for taking World of Warcraft to new heights, and enjoy your time in Northrend! "

Getting Craft With Digital Scrapbooks!

New Age Scrapbopoking-

When most think of scrapbooking, what usually comes to mind is a large table crowded with various tools, scraps of paper and old photos. I have to admit, I was once a victum of such crimes. I almost couldn't scrapbook because my house was turned upside down with unorganized printed photos and all the expensive paper, stickers, and tools that one needs to truly express creativity. I was limited to scrapbooking on long weekends, days off, or when my husband was out of town. I found myself scrapbooking at a friend's house once every three or four months. I was feeling like I was neglecting my hobby, and I didn't like it.

It wasn't until I discovered the digital scrapbooking world that I started scrapbooking at least once a week, if not more! Digital sacrapbooking allows me to organize all my photos. I'm not forced to spend $100's on stickers and paper that never get used up. I have endless use of lettering, themes and more! With traditional albums, I would finish a layout and sometimes find another must have picture in the spread and be disappointed I wouldn't be able to add it in. I resorted to creating another layout of the same theme just to include the exiled picture. Not with digital! Now I have no worries about mistakes or regretted layouts. The fixes are so easy. I also do not have to take up space around my house for storing supplies, and it's always clean!

There are several digital scrapbooks companies to choose from. From places like Wal-Mart.com and Costco.com to specialized companies like kodak.com and creative memories.com, you are sure to find an easy program with many options and price ranges to fit you. I prefer the Creative Memories scrapbpooking software called Storybook Creator Plus 3. You pay a little out of pocket, but compared to what I was spending, I am saving money. The program is versatile and allows both veterans and beginners to create albums to be proud of. Also, their printed albums are gaurenteed quality.

So put away your scissors and glue. It's time for the New Age of Scrapbooking!!

Revenge of the Riverwalk Beaver?

While out walking along the Bakersfield bike path with a client's dog this morning (Mon., Aug. 24 @ 9:15A) a large tree had fallen over along the trail by Riverwalk Park. Upon closer inspection it looks like the tree was the victim of chewing! I snapped a few pictures with my cell phone, and my suspicion is that the infamous Riverwalk beaver is back with a vengence!

Pool crash landed in tree

Saturday Morning - Bakersfield Fire may not respond for cats in trees any longer, but for a pool? That's another story... Columbus near Auburn

For the Love of Cats! Have fun - do good!

Did you know you can enter your pets picture in the "Tails of Bakersfield" and help the Cat People at the same time. It is $10.00 for each entry, you pet's picture will be in the Bakersfield Californian and the fee is donated to the charity of your choice. The Cat People are one of those choices.

So what are you waiting for..... get your pet's picture in the paper and help the Cat People at the same time.

If you enter the Calendar contest it's $15.00, and your pet has a chance of becoming a Bakersfield Calendar Cat (or Dog) and the entrance fee goes to charity as well. So get out your camera and snap away, then pick your favorite picture and WIN THE CONTEST!

Have fun - do good!

Help out the cats of Bakersfield!

Pet of the Week

Here comes FRED! He is a 2 year old sweet and friendly Basset Hound. Fred is quite the guy lapping up your attention. He bounces around with a wagging tail waiting for those back scratches and warm loving pets. He will make a perfect family pet. Come in and spend some time with Fred.

Who pays for this?

The serious recycler

UP-SIDEDOWN

How this happened , I am not sure but it could have been caused by a left front tire blow out. I got there ( Edison & Quantico at 4:05 P.M.) just before the the fire trucks got there, but I did not have my camera so after making sure they did not need me I went for my camera and here are the pictures.

Georgie's Digging technique

My 3 yr old English Bull Terrier's idea of digging. The out come--one big hole (which I eventually fell in) & a dirt covered doggie.

NAF El Centro Airshow

March in El Centro, California means lots of jet noise, and the start of another exciting airshow season in North America. The US Navy’s Blue Angels use NAF El Centro for their winter training, which runs from approximately January right up until the base’s annual airshow in mid March. During that time, the locale becomes a mecca for diehard aviation fans and photographers who love to hang out atop hay bales near the runway and cheer on their favorite team, while at the same time, trying NOT to get a haircut from those very same blue & gold F/A-18 Hornets!

This year’s show, held on March 14th, featured a variety of performers, ranging from aerobatics to warbirds, to modern military demos, two of the latter being welcome surprises. The show was kicked off with a flight of three Stearman trainers, then the “Thunder Delfins” took over, flying their Czech-built (?) L-29s. Normally the team flies four aircraft, but only two were able to make it. Bill Cornick, and Spencer Suderman provided the aerobatics. John Collver, a regular at many Southern California airshows, flew his SNJ “Wardog”. NAS Fallon sent down their SAR demo team for what looks like their last airshow appearance, with the Huey helo being slated for retirement. Next up was the popular F-15E Strike Eagle demo, from Seymour-Johnson AFB, flown by Capt Phil “Ritz” Smith with his WSO, Capt John “Gizmo” Cox. After displaying a lot of ‘turning and burning’, the Eagle then formed up with the P-51 “Wee Willy II” being flown by Kevin Eldridge, for the Heritage Flight. NAS North Island sent over a C-2 “Greyhound”, aka “COD” for a flyby just before Black Dagger jump team performed. Afterwards, there was a change of command for NAF El Centro, giving the crowd a chance to run for the numerous food vendors on hand, before the action resumed. When the show started up again, the well known B-25J, “Heavenly Body” went up and did a few flybys for the crowd. The F-18 Super Hornet demo (from NAS Lemoore), and C-17 demo (from nearby March Field ARB) kept everyone looking to the skies with their contrasting speeds and maneuvers. A BIG surprise was the appearance of not one, but TWO B-1 Lancer bombers from Dyess AFB in Abilene, Texas. They arrived during the COC ceremony at high altitude, and after a lengthy absence of both narration and the planes’ returning, a person could’ve easily thought that was the flyby. But not quite. Wait for it - wait for it. The two bombers eventually came back by in formation, low and close in! It’s rare enough that airshow fans can see a B-1, let alone TWO of them. What a sight that was! The other surprise was the appearance of two AV8B Harriers, apparently returning from the MCAS Yuma airshow, which was being held on the same day as El Centro’s. Even though a Harrier demo did not occur at the EC show, the two aircraft did do a nice flyby, with a break for landing at about midfield. The Commemorative Air Force’s Southern California Wing, based up the coast in Camarillo, sent down their F6F Hellcat, and A6M Zero for a simulated dogfight. And finally, getting back to the modern era, it was time for the Blue Angels to take over. Their C-130 transport, known as “Fat Albert”, took to the skies and did several flybys before handing it over to its F/A-18 teammates.

More coverage of the El Centro airshow, as well as Blue Angels' winter training, can be found in the near future on my website, SoCal Airshow Review, and in an upcoming issue of World Airshow News magazine.

Heritage Flight Airshow Pilots Train at Davis-Monthan AFB

Overcast skies and high winds failed to dampen spirits, or prevent flying, at the 2009 ACC Heritage Flight Conference, held March 6^th thru the 8^th, at Tucson’s Davis-Monthan AFB. Strangely, while Tucson was socked in, the weather just up the highway in Phoenix was clear. Adding to the strange weather was the arrival of one of those mysterious “Janet” 737 aircraft. And once its landing roll took it past the hot ramp area, we never saw it again that day, which was fitting, considering that aircraft’s mission. Lady Luck smiled on the event on day two of the practice sessions, with the clouds giving way to sunshine all day long. Media Day was held on Friday, with about a dozen representatives getting approved by Air Combat Command to cover the event. We had writers and photographers from the local Tucson area; Reno, Nevada, Texas; Southern California; and as far away as Holland. The F-4 Phantom Society was well represented with at least five members attending this year. DM’s PAO escorts were generous in allowing several of us to stay on base most of the day. We were allowed on the hot ramp for about 90 minutes, getting close up views of the participating aircraft. World War II era warbirds this year included the following: “Proud American”, an A-1 Skyraider in an SEA scheme, flown by Alan Anders; “Double Trouble Two”, a very sharp-looking P-51 Mustang; two other P-51s (including “Wee Willy 2”), and a pair of P-40s, one of which belongs to the Chino, California-based Planes of Fame museum. It was still in its “Valkyrie” movie paint scheme, which featured British markings. Steve Hinton and Kevin Eldridge represented the Chino museum this year. Kevin is beginning his second year as Heritage Flight pilot. I met Kevin during the 2008 season and he told me at that time he was very excited to be a part of the HF program. The other P-40 was bright green, with Flying Tiger markings. The P-47 Thunderbolt, “Tarheel Hal”, did not make it this year. Back for 2009 after standing down for one year, is the A-10 East Team, from Moody AFB. All of the other usual demo teams were there of course - F-4 West, F-4 East, A-10 West, Viper East, Viper West, and the F-15E Strike Eagle team. F-15 West from Eglin was present, and there was another F-15 with no tail code at all. Jet demo team pilots this year include Lt Col Ryan Luchsinger, aka “Chief” (F-4 West); Lt. Col. Ron “Stuff” Miller (F-4 East); Major Dave “Zeke” Skalicky (F-22 East); Major David Graham (Viper West); Major George Clifford (Viper East); Capt. Paul Brown (A-10 West); Capt. Johnnie Green (A-10 east); Capt. Sam “Nuke” Joplin (F-15 West); and Capt. Phil “Ritz” Smith with WSO Capt. John “Gizmo” Cox (F-15 Strike Eagle).

Just about thirty different formations were flown over the three-day period, and that does not include arrival formations. 2009 brings us a new F-22 Raptor demo pilot, and even though there does not appear to be anything drastically new in the demo routine itself, it certainly shows us nothing less than what Max Moga has presented over the past two seasons. Of course a good portion of the Raptor’s true capabilities presumably cannot be shown publicly. An exciting change this year was the apparent clearance for the F-4 Phantoms to do complete rolls in transition following their Heritage Flight split passes and their individual flybys. Until now, they’ve only gone just a little bit past the 90 degree mark, before straightening out. There were four Phantoms here this year, two from Holloman, #72-162 and #74-626, both of which are now on their third season in the Heritage Flight program; and two from Tyndall AFB - #237 and #74-622, believed to be going on their second Heritage Flight season.

The three-day event trains / certifies airshow pilots in the Heritage Flight program in preparation for the upcoming airshow season. The F-4 Phantom was added to the program in 2005, while the F-22 was added in 2006. It is not open to the public, however there is usually one media day, and there are many spots off base where you can view the formation practices.

Thanks to Capt. Ferrau and Michelle at ACC and Lt. Pekas along with Major John Napierand Ssgt Jacob Richmond at the DM PAO, for their assistance and access.

In the near future, extended coverage (with many more photos) of the event can be found on my website, and also in World Airshow News magazine. All photos shown are available to purchase as large prints, calendars, etc.

Southern California Airshow Review & Aviation Photography:

http://home.earthlink.net/~socal_airshow_review

Boy in a bubble

I shot 591 photos of my grandson Micah playing with bubbles the other day. Here's my favorite.

14 Pound Carp at Riverwalk

Justin Fine and Cory Koot from Bakersfield, Calif., pull in a big carp from The Park at Riverwalk. The Carp weighs in at about 14 pounds and measures 2 feet 8 inches. The fish was caught on a jig with a plastic worm.

DANGER

Today, 03/06/09 at 11:02 AM - Another accident at Sterling and East Brundage, no fatality's this time but could have been. I watched this accident as it happened, I could hardily believe my eyes, it seemed to happen in slow motion, then the noise from the screeching tires and the impacting of sheet metal and the final bang of van crashing thru the fence and striking the tree. Were it not for the tree the van could have gone thru the house.

Here are some pictures taken at the sceen.

Alaskan F-22 Raptors & Edwards AFB F-16s Participate in Latest Nellis AFB Red Flag Exercises

Red Flag 9-2 was held at Nellis AFB in Las Vegas, for the past few weeks, and on Feb 2 and 3, I was able to get on base with press credentials for their media days. About 100 of us showed up to be bussed out to a spectacular location - right in between the two runways! Later on day two we were taken over to one of the EORs (End of Runway) for landings. No limits on photography, we could shoot anything that flew. Even though there were very few foreign players this time around, this was one of the bigger Red Flag exercises. I photographed 134 different aircraft, and 62 of those alone were F-16s! Here’s the breakdown of participating aircraft: F-16s (62) - 23 from Shaw AFB; 13 from Spangdehlem, Germany (sp?); 12 aggressors from Nellis; four aggressors from NAS Fallon; a handful from Edwards AFB; four Thunderbirds were spotted practicing in their newer model Vipers; and one Nellis test bird. Twenty eight F-15s included the following: four aggressors from Nellis; 13 aircraft from Seymour Johnson AFB back east; and eleven test birds from Nellis. One of the primary highlights of this particular Red Flag, were the TWELVE F-22 Raptors - from the 525^th FS in Alaska, and four test birds from Nellis. There were six British-based Harriers here, as well as two of their E-3 AWACs birds, along with one American E-3. Originally there were three B-2 stealth bombers present, but later that dropped to two, the Spirit of California and Spirit of Ohio. Unfortunately only one of them flew while I was on base, but it was good enough! I’d never been that close to a moving B-2 before! Four B-1 Lancers from Ellsworth AFB were here, including ‘Nighthawk’, ‘No Antidote II’, and ‘Dakota Demolition’. What a rush it was to be within 150 feet of the takeoffs! We were so close that we could've easily photographed the larger aircraft with our wide angle lenses! For the most part, a 75-300mm lens was perfect. Other aircraft types involved with this session included a C-130, several KC-135s, and an RC-135. Transient a/c seen included a C-17, and T-38.

My thanks go out to the Nellis public affairs staff for the priviledge of attending this event, and for taking time out of their days to assist us in getting out there. Hopefully those budget cuts won’t hurt too bad, and they’ll be able to offer us this opportunity again sometime in the future.

fishing photo

Mark Malone

Bakersfield

age 41

5 pound large mouth bass caught 2/11 at River Walk park. bait: salmon egg peach power bait on #2 triple hook

805-558-0788

COVENANT

NO WORDS NEEDED

SNOW DAY

Once again, the magic of majestic snow fell upon Owens Primary kindergarten students! On Friday, January 30, four kindergarten daddies brought truckloads of snow to our playground for eight kindergarten classes! We scraped, packed, rolled, and piled wet, white, slippery, icy, snow to form eight unique snowmen for our school. Snow day is a tradition that is probably one of the best memories for Owens Primary Kindergarten students and teachers!

100 DAYS IN SCHOOL

100 days of school translates to lots of learning for children! What better way to celebrate than to involve families in making displays of 100 items! Enjoy these photos of ambitious young learners in Room K-1 Kindergarten at Owens Primary School!

Boat Trip

My wife (Alma) and I booked a five day cruise to Cabo San Lucas Mexico, just to get away for a little while, to meet new people and see new things. So we boarded the ship and guess who we got to meet ? Yep, you guessed it four hundred Bakersfield citizens and we all had a great time.

We got to meet the featured musical group called the Majestics who also live in Bakersfield. In Cabo we met a little four year old girl, that was sitting on a rope fence who's name is also Alma, here are some pictures of both Almas and some sunsets.

Oildale, 1939

North Chester Avenue, Oildale, 1939.

From the collection of the Kern County Museum. To view more photos like this, go to www.kcmuseum.org.

Father and son's big catch!

Friday january 16, 2009

Mark and Markis Gonzales (father and son), of Bakersfield, fishing out of Lake Buena Vista, along with Grandpa Joe. Markis(age 4) was the first to reel in a seven pound trout. Next, dad (Mark) caught a fourteen pounder using cast masters. The group caught their limit and had a great time!

Levan Institute Launches Second Semester at BC

Levan Institute Launches Second Semester at Bakersfield College

“The Levan team has worked for more than a year to develop a series of courses which are interesting, insightful and relevant to the needs of our community,” said chair Dr. Robert Allison. “Each session will introduce new courses and courses which are applicable to what is currently happening in our society.”

Course topics include gardening and plant care, soapmaking, silversmithing, drawing, photography, music, personal finance, astronomy, wine appreciation and many more. A full schedule of courses is available in the Spring 2009 Catalog and Schedule, which can be requested by calling 395-4090 or checking online at bakersfieldcollege.edu/levaninstitute.

For more information on the Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning, please contact Dr. Bob Allison at 395-4090 or at rallison@bakersfieldcollege.edu.

A fishing prize!

Hazel Abbott with a 25-pound Dorado caught on lure in Cabo San Lucas with her husband, Douglas, on Nov.19. Fishing with Juanita's Sport Fishing, the couple caught six Dorado and one 150-pound Marlin on live bait.

Catfish caught at Lake Isabella

This is an 18 pound channel catfish caught at Lake Isabella on November 18, 2008. It was caught on shad at Camp 9, by Isabella Monsibais, age 3 1/2, helped brought in by her great-grandpa, Ben Gannon, age 74, both of Bakersfield. She named it "Boy". It was turned back into the lake the following day at her request!

Red Fall Reflections

I took this photo at Hart Park yesterday (Nov. 19) showing the brilliant fall reds and yellows reflected in the park lake.

Saint Ann School honors America's troops

On Monday, November 10th, Saint Ann School held a Veteran’s Day Ceremony at morning assembly in front of the flagpole at the Parish Center. Students proudly raised their flag in honor of veterans of the United States. During the flag ceremony, students and guests learned what each fold of the flag means. Student Council Vice President Sam McDonald acted as master of ceremonies. Adison Blubaugh and Chandler Welsh, who are in 5th Grade, unfolded and raised the flag. The flag ceremony brought special meaning to the recent gift of the flag to the school. The flag was received from Lt. Commander Mike Stokes in thanks to the Saint Ann School community for their generous support through letters, gifts and prayers for soldiers serving in Iraq. The flag was last flown over a palace in Iraq where he is stationed.

Honored veterans in attendance were Tom Pearl (former Navy Lieutenant), Lt. Colonel Pat Blubaugh, Jim Janson (retired Marine CWO-3), Sr. Chief. Rick Johnson, Steven Busby (former Army Sergeant), and Frank Youngblood (retired Air Force and Navy). Also remembered were Lt. Commander Mike Stokes and Specialist Mike Rogers who are currently deployed to Iraq.

Tom Pearl talked to the students about the meaning and importance of service and the different ways military and civilians can be of service to their community. Lt. Col. Pat Blubaugh gave an energetic speech regarding how he serves the United States as a Marine pilot. Both guests were very engaging and their messages were well received by the enthusiastic students.

Salmon fishing at Chilkat Lake, Alaska

Marik Knapp, 12, of Bakersfield attempts to hold up his 20-plus-pound Silver Salmon he recently caught on a trip to Chilkat Lake, Alaska. Marik's dad & uncle all fished for seven days limiting out each day. Marik continues to talk about the fishing trip of a lifetime.

Beauty shines at the Bakersfield Pageant

In front of more than 530 people Saturday, three winners were crowned at the 16th Annual Bakersfield Pageant.
From a field of 35 contestants, Erica George, a junior at Bakersfield Christian was named Teen Miss Bakersfield; BC student, Angelica August, won the Miss Bakersfield title; and Rhenana Grimes, a mother of three and a sign language interpreter at a local elementary school, took home the Mrs. Bakersfield crown.
The theme of the evening was “Salute to Our Veterans.” When Erica George was crowned Teen Miss Bakersfield she got a surprise visit from her brother Zack Julien, who is serving in the Army. Stationed in Texas and going to Iraq in January, Julien took a last-minute weekend leave to fly in to support his sister.
The winners will advance to the California International state pageant next August in Los Angeles.
April Mitchell was the first runner-up in the Teen Court, and Jessica Martinez was second runner-up. In the Miss Court, Heather O’Conner was first runner-up and Kirby Krausgrill was second runner-up.
The Four Points Sheraton hosted the judges’ accommodations, the Elephant Bar hosted the Judges’ Dinner and the California Pizza Kitchen hosted all of contestants
at a dress rehearsal dinner.
Prizes included a cash scholarship from Wells Acoustics & Alta One Credit Union, tiaras from Daniel’s Jewelers, trophies, flowers, a photo package, fitness memberships, personal training, restaurant certificates, jewelry, facials etc.