Outdoors: Bakersfield.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

The timer that I bought for my outdoor lights was fairly expensive. I was, however, looking forward to not having to plug them in when it gets dark and unplug them when I go to bed.

In an attempt to attach the timer to the lights, I realized what a totally complicated procedure I was in for. First of all there are six pages of instructions. I found the instructions after borrowing my neighbor’s chain saw to open the package. They were wadded up in the bottom of a plastic covering that probably could be substituted for an airplane window in an emergency. I had to search for my language of choice.

Now, down to business.

I do WHAT? It has to be plugged in WHERE? There is a possible lead poisoning involved in handling the cord??? Do not immerse in water. Now why would anyone do that? Do not splice, repair or modify. (I don’t even know how to do that!) This must be used five feet above the ground. What am I supposed to do, plug it in my ear? I don’t have any outside outlets 5’ high (except my ear).

I am not usually a quitter. My 8^th grade motto was “Quitters never win.” However, I quit. I will totter out there when I go to bed and unplug whatever needs to be unplugged. Or I won’t turn them on except when I’m having company.

At the bottom of the instructions it told me to:

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!

CONSERVEZ CE MODE D’OPERATION!

GUARDE ESTAS INSTRUCCIONES!

(WHY, I SAY? WHY? WHY?)

Further down it read:

Printed in China

Imprime’ in Chine

Impreso en China

If this had been made in the USA and the instructions written and printed here, would the Chinese complain? Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe they don’t even want outdoor lights except during the Chinese New Year.

Don’t drive by to look at my Christmas lights unless you call ahead. I will run out there in my cozy robe and plug them in. And if you want an outdoor timer, I know where you can get one free. Merry Christmas!

Bryan Nuebert Comes to Glennville

Bryan was raised on his family's ranch near Salinas, California. In his teen years he became friends with neighbor Bill Dorrance. He spent all the time he could with Bill, working with horses and braiding rawhide.

After college he worked with Bill steadily, starting and riding colts on Bill's ranch. During this time Bryan met Bill's friend Ray Hunt and Bill's brother Tom Dorrance. He had many opportunities since those years to work for and with these gifted men. They have greatly influenced and helped him learn what he is able to accomplish with a horse and ultimately with parts of his life.

Bryan has spent 20 years cowboying and riding colts on some of the biggest ranches in Nevada and California. Thirteen of those years were spent as cowboss in charge of cattle, horses and the cowboy crew. He has had valuable experience working with wild horses in Nevada, as well as conducting demonstrations on wild horse handling across the country. He has a video titled Wild Horse Handling and was featured in Western Horseman. See the February '96 issue, "Taking the Wild out of Mustangs" by Jim Overstreet.

To register for this incredible event, please contact Missy Bernhard at 331-8326 or email through the Glennville Rodeo website at www.glennvillerodeo.org

A Garden Raises A Community

Hello Friends!!
We're competing for a $25,000 grant to build a Community Garden & Canning Kitchen!!
After several months, our idea had made it through to the final stage: voting!!
We can do it with your support!! Kern County needs this!!!
http://refresheverything.com/Idea/19779

... For an extra vote each day you can
text this code: 108577 to 73774 (Pepsi)

*Also, Pepsi products have specially marked 'power vote' codes which multiply your vote from 5 to 100, if you can find em!!!

Please vote every day until September 30th!!
Thank you!! See you @ the garden!!!

Appliance repair, appliance service, stove repair

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For more information, visit : http://www.bayappliancerepair.com

Update on Campus Park's Pond or Sump

The residential area of Campus Park, near White Ln. and Gosford is one of the lucky communities that has been blessed with a sump that was turned into a pond back in the 80's soon after the community was established. So far no one has been able to tell me just where the turtles, ducks, and geese have come from, but a recent visit from a biologist has determined that these animals are not native to our lands. The fifteen turtles probably started out as someones pet who was either released into the sump-pond, or wondered away from their yard and made it's way to the pond. Now, after 20+ yrs. the little turtle has a very nice home and family. They are most likely within the species identified as painted turtles. The ducks and geese are migratory birds, and if they weren't being fed by humans, would actually fly away each year.

Sumps are created throughout Bakersfield in order to collect storm waters and prevent flooding, but also for use of the waters. As a lot of us here in Bakersfield experienced during the December severe storms, not all of the measures put into place work perfectly. The sump-pond located in Campus Park South is always sort of full which helps it to function better as a pond. This has been where the blame has been placed for the flooding that occurred surrounding Sing Lump Elementary, and the neighboring area. Certain departments within the city don't exactly agree. Water Resources Dept. is who maintains the sumps, while an unidentified department takes care of the water level within the sump, and another dept. takes care of keeping the storm drains clear. If the sump had not been a pond at the time of the floods, it could have taken in more water....obviously, but when all of the storm drains surrounding the area were crammed full of debris from the storm, what good is a sump? The streets are not angled so the water will run down each street and into the sump. That's why the storm drains are there. As residence of the area witnessing the flooding, it looked to several individuals like a flaw in the design of the roads when the area was built. Several of the streets that had the worse flooding, had no storm drains available to them.

The December flooding has brought about a big controversy about turning the pond at Campus Park South, back into a full functioning sump, and removing the wildlife. Enthusiastic residents of the area have posted signs asking for support. Aiming residents to contact the Director of Water Resources, Jason Meadors to voice our disapproval of the departments actions. I for one, being a long time resident of Campus Park, wild life enthusiast, and having watched the geese and ducks raise their babies here year after year, was ready for a fight. Especially after having read the article that made Mr. Meadors sound like such a Neanderthal.

To my great surprise, not only did Jason Meadors answer his office phone in order to take my call on his lunch break, but he was just as concerned about the situation as I and all the Campus Park residence were. He had taken over the position of Director of Water Resources in January, after all of the havoc in December occured. He has been doing a lot of catch up, but by the time I called him on Thursday, May 5th, he had already had a biologist, several engineers, and surveyors to the pond-sump, figuring out the best way to maintain the sumps purpose and not disturb the wildlife. He had also been in contact with the Ca. Dept. of Fish and Game, who informed him that the birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Act.. Meaning they are to remain untouched until they have finished their nesting period which would be about mid Sept. through Jan.. On a followup call to Fish and Game, I found out that in order for any city or county department to relocate the wildlife in order to turn the pond back into a full time sump, an application would have to be submitted because of the California Enviormental Quality Act, which would put the whole thing in the hands of Fish and Game, who would then have their biologist survey the pond to make sure there were no endangered or protected species living there. If all was clear, they would professionally remove and relocate the animals.

Director Meadors has reassured me that it is not the intention of the Dept. of Water Resources to relocate the animals, nor disturb them. He is even having a crew lined up to go back out to the pond to clean up the debris that was scrapped from the bottom of the pond and layed around the sides, while work was recently being done to the sump. Our City Councilman, Harold Hanson has also been in contact with Director Meadors to make sure all works out for the animals and the concerned citizens who have been contacting both his office and the Water Resources office.

Here's to city politics! It does sometimes go in the direction of the citizens, when we come together and voice our concerns. Thank you to the concerned residence of Campus Park who so diligently posted the signs for help for all to see.

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.

Street Kayaking

Instead of letting the flooding ruin our Christmas Break, my buddy came up with the awesome idea of kayaking down the flooded streets of the Rosedale area. The five of us, who were friends in High School, went to different colleges spread throughout our great country. We spent the day paddling around our neighborhoods, and after a few hours of crazy college antics we dried off, warmed up, and headed home. We are looking forward to another day of kayaking tomorrow. It is as almost as fun as the snow of 2001.

el padre

Snake Aversion Clinic

For Immediate Release

Media Contact

Dick Haldeman

951-767-3435

westernqu@aol.com

Santa Clarita Valley QU

Snake Avoidance Clinic for Dogs

The Santa Clarita Valley Chapter of Quail Unlimited (SCVQU) will be hosting two rattlesnake avoidance clinics for dogs just in time for the upland hunting seasons. The first clinic will be October Second, at Frazier Park. Please call 661-245-3731 or 819-367-4158 for the venue location. The next clinic will be held the following day October 3, at De Anza Park, 3701 Lost Hills Road, Calabasas, CA.

Rattlesnakes are found throughout the nation. No one wants to be surprised by one along a hiking trail, in the field, or worse in your own backyard. Even with the new antivenin shots, it’s still best not to have your dog get bit. A dog trained to avoid rattlers also warns you and the family that a rattler is present.

The clinics will be conducted by Bob Kettle. He is considered one of the leading experts in Snake Avoidance training. Kettle has been holding clinics with Quail Unlimited chapters for over 15 years. He is approved by the California DFG and has been conducting clinics for the Nevada Department of Wildlife, US Navy and Air Force.

Training $65 for the first dog, $60 for the second and all training is by appointment only. Please contact Ken Barton 818-367-4158 after 6 PM call Eric Smith at 818-349-3049.

The Santa Clarita Valley Chapter of Quail Unlimited is working in the Las Padres National Forest in the area around Frazier Park.

End

Natural wonder the DRAGONFLY

Anisoptera comes from the Greek an meaning not, iso meaning equal, and ptera meaning wings. Their hind wings are broader than their forewings. And they are everywhere, just north of Stockdale and west of Allen. The water shed, vitally important for all our future) is a wonderful breeding ground for the beautiful damselfly. Damselflies (suborder Zygoptera) are often confused with newly molted dragonflies but once a dragonfly molts, it is fully grown. If you want to experience a natural and beautiful phenomena, go to the Rosedale area, at the water shed and enjoy the beauty.

Brimhall Farmers' Market Saturday mornings 9am-1pm - Fresh, seasonal produce

9500 Brimhall Road

Saturday mornings 9am-1pm

Be Healthy, Eat Green - Think Quality, not Quantity.

Brimhall Farmers' Market

Crappie still biting

The Crappie are still biting good ! On Tuesday we caught 39 crappie ranging from 8 oz. to over a pound. Though they are not ready to spawn yet, but are getting real close. The crappie are still in 12 to 20 feet of water just waiting off shore. The best jig we used was a tri-color with nuggets. The Bass were biting too on live Crawdads and ranging from 3 to 4 plus pounds.

Camp KEEP: One Parent's Survival Story

Camp K.E.E.P.: One Parent’s Survival Story

By Thomas G. Robinson

In 2008 I had the pleasure of accompanying my son, Andres, to Camp KEEP (Kern Environmental Education Program) during his 6^th grade year at Leo B. Hart Elementary School. We were asked, as parents, to volunteer to become counselors since the rules changed and high school students were no longer being accepted to counsel.

We spent the week at the Ocean Home where we hiked, hiked and then hiked some more. We hiked to a creek; we hiked atop a mountain, through the sand dunes and into the coves. At the time I didn’t think it was so bad. Oh, there were moments where I didn’t think I would make it, but in the end I prevailed. That was two years ago.

In March of this year, it was my youngest son, Alex’s turn to go to KEEP. Forgetting all the pain and headaches from the two years before, I unwittingly decided to volunteer to counsel again. As soon as I arose to the early morning bus ride, seeing the excitement of the voyage ahead for the students, I began to remember just how much work this week was going to be.

Counselors for Camp KEEP are elementary student’s parents. We are usually of the same breed, meaning, we have usually sat on the boards at the schools, are educators or administrators, or have been room parents or carpoolers. In short, we’ve been known to corral kids in a nonviolent way (usually) and maintain some sort of mutual respect between us and “them”. At this point I’ve usually been pretty comfortable in knowing these kids. However, over the last four years, due to the economy and starting a new job, my school involvement has waned a bit and my previous status of knowing these kids on a first name-basis has gone by the wayside. I knew a few of my son’s friends, but not as many as I had before. It made me feel a little guilty knowing I have not been as involved as I used to be. But, here I am, at Camp KEEP for the second time in two years!

Take off: What would have taken you or me about an hour and a half to two hours to get to Morro Bay, takes about three hours by two charter buses with about 150 kids and 8 to 10 parents and teachers. With required stops for the “official bathroom break” and at all railroad crossings, the “adventure” becomes slightly stalled and I become entangled in conversations about the latest video games and all the “Mr. Robinson, Mr. Robinson” questions that come from surrounding kids. Still, it’s a comfortable ride as the teacher has brought a DVD for the kids to chill out with, “Disney’s Snow Buddies”. Oh joy.

Arrival: The air quality is the first thing you notice when you arrive at camp. There’s a hint of salt-water in the air and the faint smell of the eucalyptus trees that surround the campgrounds. It’s so refreshing to take a deep breath and fill your lungs with clean ocean air. Then you see it, the ever-present big white dome. The place where we’ll be having all our breakfasts and dinners, where the kids will be challenged to eat properly and keep their voices at a respectable level, where most disciplinary action will take place for groups that don’t contain themselves, where Naturalists (that’s what they call the teachers there) will spend countless minutes pausing for silence until the kids realize that they are talking too loud and the naturalists are waiting for them. It’s where we, as counselors, are separated into teams and are ordered to sit at cafeteria tables designed for kids half our size in order to instill some sense of leadership. It’s at this point as you attempt to squeeze into that very tight bench-to-table narrowness that you renew your personal vow to do a few sit-ups in the morning and start watching what you eat – again.

Over the course of the five days and four nights that we are there, we see the kids in a whole new light. They are excited to be away from home for the first time without their parents. They are learning how to cope with problems without yelling out for mom or dad to help. They are learning to control themselves in a very excitable environment where rules and regulations still exist. They are preparing to leave primary school and begin their new lives in ever-so-cool junior high. And, they are learning.

During the week, the Naturalists take kids to various ecosystems around the campsite. We learn (yes, WE learn) about riparian ecosystems, how Morro Rock came to be (very interesting), about local birds and plants, and how everyone is responsible for how we treat our planet. Before you begin to hum a few bars of Cumbaya, note that although the “hippie” atmosphere is ever present, these Naturalists are professors and scientists who have educational backgrounds that would rival most of the top educators in the state. They also have a great love for what they do, and it shows. From hiking to the oceanic view of the coves to our mountain top view from Mt. Valencia, Jr., we get to know the naturalists on a more personal level, and they become regular people just like you and me. I am constantly amazed at how they stay calm and collected with some very aggressive children; knowing that they do this kind of thing week after week for nine months out of the year. (Insert shout-out to “Squid” here!)

Return: I think most parents and kids will agree that as much as you want to continue this love-fest of nature, we all are excited to begin the trek home. For the counselors, images of soaking in a scented bath, drinking a glass of wine, and eating a nice home-cooked meal are so precious, so near and yet so far. For the kids, I’m sure their PS3’s and X-Boxes are calling on them to come play again with the familiar sights and sounds of Japanese anime, dramatic musical interludes and promises of laser blasts and karate chops galore.

My favorite memory for both visits to Camp KEEP involve the simple fact that, for a full week, I spent 24 hours a day with my child, watching them interact with their friends, teachers and other adults. I noticed that they are young men, still innocent enough to act silly with their friends yet become cool when called for, and knowledgeable enough to know that this will eventually become one of the fondest memories of their childhood.

Camp KEEP has been around for over 40 years. When I mentioned to friends and colleagues that I was about to spend my week’s vacation at KEEP, most of them had a memory to share of their time there as a child. Some of them burst into campfire songs (The Scat Song, anyone?) and reminisced about their favorite moment there. Not originally from Kern County, I was amazed at the impact this place had on them.

It’s important to note that not every school in Kern County is going to Camp KEEP anymore. Budget cuts have dramatically cut the amount of schools that have been able to include it in their educational programs. Personally, I think it’s a shame that there will be students who will never experience the outdoors in this way. For some kids, it would have been their first and last time in that type of environment.

Overall, if you ever get a chance to go, or if your child’s school is one of the lucky schools that will be attending - jump at the opportunity! Your outlook on life (environmentally) will change, your relationship with your child will grow stronger, and your time spent away from all the chaos at work and home will be something to fondly reflect upon.

For me – I am a two-time survivor of Camp KEEP. If I had another child that would be attending camp in the future, you can be sure I would make it three. Who knows, maybe twenty years from now, I’ll be attending with my grandchild… Hopefully, it’ll still be there.

Click on this link to learn more about Camp KEEP: http://www.campkeep.org/

Bakersfield College’s Garden Fest Goes Green for 2010

Bakersfield College’s annual Garden Fest is known for being one of the best annual celebrations of all things horticultural in Bakersfield. This year the event is changing shape and taking on the Green movement.

On Saturday, April 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Bakersfield College’s annual event will become Garden Fest Green and Clean. This celebration, to be held in the College’s Environmental Horticulture Gardens, located on Mt. Vernon Avenue just north of Memorial Stadium, will bring thousands of visitors to campus for a day of gardening, pet care, cooking, outdoor leisure, and arts and crafts.

“With an emphasis on environmentally-friendly gardening concepts and the ease of going green, activities and education at the 2010 Garden Fest Green and Clean will help attendees learn how they can be Earth friendly and save money at the same time,” said Lindsay Ono, Environmental Horticulture faculty at Bakersfield College.

The day’s events include free seminars on gardening, floral design, cooking, installing water features, pet and plant safety, pet adoptions, a farmer’s market, as well as arts and crafts..

The California Landscape Contractors Association Garden Stage will feature free seminars presented by industry professionals who inform and entertain attendees about gardening, floral design, and cooking. Learn how to install a water feature from start to finish with the Build-A-Pond seminar presented by Buck’s Landscape Materials and Pond Shop.

Animal lovers will enjoy the “Pets and Plants” classroom featuring the Bakersfield College small animal companion class presentation of pets and plant safety. “Adopt-A-Pet” will be presented by Kern County Animal Control.

This event also brings community gardening clubs, schools, forestry, parks and recreation, and green organizations to educate and inform the public.

The Renegade Ranch Farmer’s Market will return this year, featuring products produced by Bakersfield College agriculture students, and fresh fruit and vegetables from Murray Family Farms.

Breakfast and lunch will be prepared by the outstanding Bakersfield College Culinary Arts department and Coldstone Creamery will be selling ice cream to support Operation Smile.

The Arts and Crafts fair features works of art designed by both faculty and student artisans. And to keep the younger crowd entertained don’t miss Battlefield Live laser tag.

Garden Fest Green and Clean has more than 120 booths already scheduled for the one day event!

A full list of activities is available on the Garden Fest Green and Clean website at http://www2.bakersfieldcollege.edu/lono/Garden_Fest_2010.htm. Admission is free, though some activities require a fee for participation. Proceeds benefit the horticulture program at Bakersfield College. For more information, call 395-4446 or 395-4938.

Life in Estonia: Snow Problem?

I'm a Bakersfield native currently living and teaching English in the small town of Tapa, Estonia (population 7,000). Where is Estonia? In Northern Europe's Baltic Region, just west of Russia and below Finland.

Not a whole lot of people live in Estonia. When you consider that its land mass is roughly double the area of Kern county yet is inhabited by fewer than 1.5 million people, you get a get a pretty good sense of just how sparsely populated the country is. But Estonians wouldn't have it any other way. Around here, towns are small, communities are tight, and nature abounds.

I've been here for 7 months now and have enjoyed experiencing the changing of the seasons in ways I've never before known. I'm not sure if I should consider myself particularly lucky or unlucky, seeing as how this season is shaping out to be the most snow-filled that the country has seen in a hundred years. After 3 months of below-freezing temperatures and still no sign of spring, I often daydream about California weather.

Anyway, here are some photos from my first "real" winter.

Calling all Snow Bunnies

People love to play in the snow, that's no secret. The estimated 60,000 of you who chose to head to Frazier Park last weekend proves that.

This weekend, when those of you who decide to pack up the sleds and head for Mt. Pinos, please park safely off the road an enjoy yourselves in public areas only. When it comes time to head home, please remember to pack out what you pack in. Let's leave our National Forest pristine and clean for the next family who wants to come play in the snow.

For those not familiar, Pine Mountain Club is a private community and there are no public playground facilities. All roads and adjacent land is privately owned, so please respect the residents and be sure you are on public land before sledding and snow play. The local Patrol and Property Owners' Association is diligent in maintaining that trespassers will be asked to leave. If you are not certain if a particular property is private, it's better to find another area to play just to be safe.

All of you snow bunnies, bundle up, have fun, and most of all, be safe.

Bad day at the beach

A former resident of Ventura, I now live here in Bakersfield. But I still love Ventura, and the waves that grace her shores. At age 54, I chose a surfboard over shuffleboard, and returned to the ocean sport I love, after a long hiatus. On Jan. 9th, a Saturday morning trip to Ventura County's Faria Beach turned ugly, however, when a park ranger with an attitude unleashed her venom on myself and my unsuspecting wife. My wife dropped me off at the beach, and stopped in the "wrong" place (had no idea - it seems it was an "overnight" spot), in an open stretch of available parking by the south end of the park. I had gotten out, excited to try my new home-made wooden surfboard, and got my surfing gear ready, which took maybe 5 minutes, and then my wife was off to the yardsales. As she was about to pull out, a "Ranger Sylvia" showed up and blocked her way, with a chip on her shoulder and a look of seething hatred.

She began shouting that we were in the wrong spot, that she hated surfers, and was "so sick" of them. So there it was - I was a despised "surfer", and my wife had stopped in the wrong place to drop me off! Although it turns out the printed park rules allow for a 30 minute grace period for those using an overnight spot to park first and then pay (which I did, once I found out), we were fined $75 within 5 minutes of arriving. Now, I was probably surfing here back when Ranger Sylvia's diaper, and not just her attitude, was full of, well, never mind - but I had never heard of this rule (which probably didn't exist back then). When I tried to pay the $30, her assistant "Ranger Bacon" refused to take my money, saying "you're full of [excrement]", "I don't work here", and "don't waste your money", all the while threatening to write another parking ticket!

Wow, what a scam - they wouldn't take my $30 for using the parking spot - but they gladly fined me $75 for not having paid! I finally had to deposit my check in a metal depository. Does Ventura County sanction prejudice, hatred, and abusive behavior when it's couched in beaureaucratic double-talk and county uniforms? Or is this just a money-making ploy for an anemic county budget? I went to the beach to enjoy the sport of surfing, and it cost me a $75 fine, a $30 parking fee, and an earful of hatred. You can probably guess which one hurts the most!

Downtown Bakersfield

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

Latination

"Latination"! Caffeine Supreme is turning up the heat! We will host a free concert downtown on the corner of 20th and F St. from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Come be entertained with Sones from Son Tropical & DJ Lorenzo. Bring a blanket or some lawn chairs and come ready to dance. We will also have various vendors on the premises selling their handcrafted items. 20% off all drinks. For more info. visit us at www.caffeinesupreme.com

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!

A day at Castaic

The boys took me Striper fishing for the first time and of course I showed them how to catch the big one!! It weighed in at 10lbs 2 oz. Such a great day and the fishing was great at Castaic Lake.

Kern river drownings

Please, people, take down the signs in english, and spanish warning people to wear lifejackets in the river. Post instead, what? are you stupid! Keep out! People die in this river. Have rangers patrol the river, no warnings given if people found in the river. Make them break camp, and they must leave. There is just no excuse for such stupidity. It is the Killer Kern!!!!!

BLUE MOUNTAIN GROUP TO PERFORM IN TEHACHAPI

COME VISIT US IN BEAUTIFUL TEHACHAPI FOR THE MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL.

MCGUIRE'S PUB HAS LIVE DJ MUSIC ON FRIDAY AUG 14TH AT 9 PM. MCGUIRE'S OFFERS GREAT DRINK SPECIALS, FRIENDLY BARTENDERS AND A GREAT ATMOSPHERE TO COOL OFF IN. WE HAVE FOUR POOL TABLES, A 22 FOOT SHUFFLEBOARD, AIR HOCKEY, FOOZ BALL, 4 DART BOARDS, PGA GOLF, EXTREME HUNTING AND A BRAND NEW MEGA TOUCH.

LIVE ROCK AND ROLL AND BLUES BAND "THE BLUE MOUNTAIN TRIBE" TO PLAY AT 9PM OUTDOOR BEER GARDEN ALL DAY SATURDAY!! COME IN FOR OUR $2.00 16 OZ DOMESTIC DRAFT BEER SPECIAL FROM 9PM TILL WE CLOSE.

KILL THE KEG SUNDAY!! $2.00 DOMESTIC DRAFT BEERS ALL DAY.

MONAGHAN MOTORSPORTS STATELINE RUN

The MONAGHAN MOTORSPORTS STATELINE C.A.R.E RUN is here again. Mark your

calendars and join us this October 10-11, 2009. Tell your friends, coworkers, and bosses

(if you like them). ALL the money we collect on this run goes to Cancer Awareness

Research and Education aka C.A.R.E.. Don't have a dirt bike or quad... no problem. All

vehicles are invited. Motorcycles, hot rods, cars, trucks, suvs, jeeps, dirt bikes, quads,

atvs, etc.... After the ride we meet in the banquet room for an all you can eat buffet and

raffle. You can pick up some great stuff at this raffle and again the proceeds go to

C.A.R.E.. So, come out, have fun, support a great cause, and make a lot of great friends.

Catgirl can't stop purrring.........

This weekend, Friday 7/10 and Saturday 7/11 is the Cat People's Sizzling Summer Sidewalk Sale from 10AM to 3PM at "Pawsitively Cat" 602 - 18th Street, Bakersfield. Come check out one-of-a-kind gift items for your favorite feline, browse the shop for special sales, join us for light refreshments and meet other cat lovers.

The Cat People are all volunteers, so 100% of all proceed will go to our rescue efforts, spay and neuter programs, and help special cats in need. We gratefully accept all donations of cat food, kitty litter and other cat related items. Our kittens in foster care appreciate new/used toys as well.

Basics of Kitchen remodeling

First step in kitchen remodeling plan is to know your budget. Everyone wants a modern kitchen with all the facilities in it. Before starting your remodeling process do the research process. You can remodel your kitchen appliances, cabinets, flooring, countertops, faucets and sinks etc.
When you plan to purchase kitchen appliances do keep certain things on mind. Based on your kitchen layout, you should consider freestanding or built-in appliances. Appliances would blend better with the kitchen when they are built in. It is important to find kitchen appliances that fit your needs. Kitchen appliance makers have as many options and feature you can wish for-each tailored to meet specific needs.
Ovens offer as many features as there are styles. Most gas wall ovens in the US range from 27-30 inches in width and offer single or stacked double ovens-available in both gas wall ovens and electric. Both gas wall ovens and electric have meat probes that can measure the temperature of meat and turn off when it is finished cooking. Also check when the oven is described as a convection oven-this can get as customized as you like. Due to these high-tech options, many home builders are abandoning gas wall ovens and choosing brick ovens- or for the more rustic, wood burning ovens into their homes. Gas cook tops have gained immense popularity over the last few years. Gas cook tops are available in stainless or silver. Based on the basic functionality of a cook top, homeowners are driven by brand. Along with gas cook top, ventilation is a well sought after accessory. Stainless steel refrigerator tucked into the wall of your kitchen will always be the most used kitchen appliance you have.
Cabinets are no longer for just food storage; they’re the cornerstone of your kitchen’s style. Roll out and tilt-out drawers are popular kitchen cabinets. The highest quality and most expensive option are solid wood cabinets. Among your choices are hickory, walnut and cherry-each can bring a unique warmth, look and style to your kitchen? Another popular route is European kitchen cabinets.
When selecting kitchen flooring, choose something that is both beautiful and strong. If you need durable and cost-effective flooring, you can consider vinyl or ceramic tiles. Vinyl laminate flooring is a great idea for those who are working with a lower budget, but still want the tile look, however when choosing any type of kitchen flooring buyers should be aware that quality should be the determining factor in their selection. Hardwood flooring is another popular route in kitchen flooring. Other Popular flooring is Hardwood flooring and stone flooring.
Kitchen countertops vary in price based on material. Granite countertops, slate countertops or marble countertops are considered most durable. Modern kitchens can host a variety of countertop materials from cement and stainless steel to copper countertops. DuPont Corian countertops are the cheapest among all the countertops. Ceramic tile is tough, heat resistant, attractive and unyielding to stains.
Kitchen sinks are one of the most functional elements in any kitchen. Many homeowners now prefer very deep sinks that are flush with the countertops. These are often referred as inset sinks. Cast-iron sinks, with an enamel finish are an affordable option. These sinks are durable, however they can be chipped. Synthetic-composition sinks, made of solid-surface acrylic or quartz acrylic are always a safe option. There are a number of styles based on functionality, color and material. From brass, to stainless steel, to plastic molds, there are as many faucet choices as there are types of sink to match them. Just be sure to choose a kitchen faucet that is compatible with the kitchen sink.

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CSUB graduate publishes his first book, Gino the Minnow

Scott Wolford graduated from California State University Bakersfield in 1989 with a bachelors degree in Physical Education. He swam for the Roadrunners. He enjoyed the local lakes and headed for the coast to enjoy California’s water areas whenever possible. After graduated, he earned his masters in Physical Education in 1990 at Florida International University in Miami. Upon graduating he worked in California and St. Augustine for over six years at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind as the recreation manager for the visually impaired. He was raised in the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan for the beaches that are close by. He worked as a lifeguard on Lake Michigan and spent numerous hours on the beach. Scott grew up with a love for nature and continues to share this love with a series of children's books that encourage us all to do our part in helping keep the environment clean.

Gino the Minnow, is Scott's first published book and it focuses on clean water areas. The hardcover book is beautifully illustrated and shows how one little fish can make a world of difference. His next two books will discuss ways to cleaner land and air qualities and what we can all do to help. $1 will be donated to non-profit organizations who focus on cleaner environments.
Thousands upon thousands of miles of coastal and water masses enrich this beautiful nation of ours. Water is one of the most important natural resources that we have. Here in California we all should be truly grateful having such beautiful beaches near by to enrich our lives. All of us need to take care of our water. Not only for ourselves, but for wildlife and future generations to enjoy. Millions of tons of trash are thrown into the water areas each and every year. This trash can take years to decompose, if ever.

A few facts on the time it takes for some materials to fully decompose:
Paper: 2-8 months, Plastic Coated Cartons: 5 years, Plastic Bags: 10-20 years,
Cigarette Butts: up to 12 years, Tin Cans: 50-100 years,
Aluminum Cans:80-100 years, Batteries: 100 years,
Plastic Six Pack Holder Rings: 450 years, Glass Bottles: 1 million years
Plastic Soda Bottles: Forever

As you can see, it takes some materials a very, very long time to decompose, some last forever. Some people may think that it is much easier to simply toss the trash wherever they are, instead of disposing of it properly. Improper disposal of trash has many bad side effects: harm to wildlife. Some creatures eat the litter thinking it is food. The litter causes damages to the creatures' digestive systems. Also, litter can get tangled in the fins or legs of various animal life, which can cut off circulation or other damage to the their tissues. Fishing line and plastic six pack holder rings are the main culprit in these types of damage to wildlife. Numerous injuries on human life are experienced each year as well. Broken glass bottles, aluminum cans, and other forms of litter can cause havoc on ones' body. The water can be contaminated from litter tossed into the water areas, which makes the water harmful to consume or to swim in for humans and wildlife.
Do you want to see the same trash at your favorite water spot, year after year? What can you do about this problem of litter in our water areas? When you go to the water areas pack for the outing as light as possible. Carry with you as few amounts of future trash items as possible. Several suggestions include using cloth napkins, clean towels and rags, stainless steel silverware, glass or pottery dishes and cups, rechargeable batteries, and a thermos for beverages. Bring a garbage bag with you for all of your trash items, as there may not be any trash cans in the location that you will be going or it may already be filled. Dispose of all of your trash properly. Used fishing line should be recycled. If you see trash left behind by others, please do your part in cleaning up the water areas, by picking it up. Be careful when picking up trash. You should wear proper gloves.
Go for a nice walk along the water. Bring a garbage bag with you, to allow you to pick up any trash that you may see along the way. You’ll get some great exercise, see some beautiful sights, spend quality time with those special to you, and leave a clean water area, which everyone can enjoy. Join an organized beach cleanup group. Start your own beach cleanup group. Do your own beach cleanup each and every time you visit your favorite water area.
Especially with the high price of gas, why not stay close to home and enjoy your local beaches? For more information on ordering his book, Gino the Minnow or helping keep the water areas clean, please look on www.ginotheminnow.com. Scott would like to hear from his friends and others who share a devotion to our environment.

Catch of the Week

caught by: Mark Malone April 4th, 2009 at Buena Vista Lake

Bakersfield, age 41, 805-558-0788

type: striped bass

weight: 25 pounds

type of bait: chicken liver

Hiking on the Kern River Trail

Want to see some great wildflowers?

The Kern River Trail is one of the best-kept secrets in this town! If you are traveling from Bakersfield towards Lake Isabella, there is a big bridge on Hwy 178 over the Kern River that is about 1.75-miles past the turnoff to the Old Kern Canyon Road, and there is a day-use parking area under the bridge. The bridge is right where the road transitions from 3 lanes to 4 lanes. You can access the parking area from either direction on 178 and the parking lot connects both sides under the bridge.

To get to the trailhead you need to hike back up onto Hwy 178, and cross over the bridge to the north side while facing traffic (so you’d be on the west side of the bridge), and then hop over the guardrail at the end of the bridge. The trailhead is off to the west – you really cannot miss it once you get there.

The trail goes both directions along the canyon – to the south it is aptly informally known as the “Wildflower Trail”, and to the north it is called the “Kern Canyon Trail”. The northerly part is maintained by the Bakersfield mountain biking club, the Southern Sierra Fat Tire Association. The trailhead is only accessible on foot or by bicycle at this location. Motorcycles and horses can access the trail several miles further up the canyon.

I’m sure the flowers are still in full bloom so it’s not too late to catch the show this year! Have fun!!

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.

An ode to the Kern River Bike Path

It was our daily outing. After Derek's second breakfast, around 10 a.m., I'd buckle him into the car seat and gather my things: Water bottle, iPod, stop watch, keys, and ID. We'd drive to Beach Park, load up the stroller, then hit the bike path for a brisk walk along the Kern River.

For three months of my maternity leave, my baby boy and I escaped the house and became part of the bike path community. We made many friends. There were cyclists, dog walkers, joggers, skaters, horseback riders, disc golfers, fishers and other stroller babies. Everyone always had a friendly smile. We never exchanged names and rarely said much more than "hello" or "good morning." But faces became recognizable. Our closest friend was an older city park worker who wears the name Pastor on his shirt. He would slowly pass us in his small white pickup truck and peek out to see how much Derek had grown. "What a good baby," he would tell me. "So cute."

Derek had a lot of admirers on the path. I felt so proud pushing his stroller and answering the usual question: "How old is he?" One month. Six weeks. Two months. Three months. Almost four months. My had he grown since we started our walks!

My goal has been to train to walk the Rock 'N' Roll marathon in San Diego on May 31. I started the weekend after Christmas walking a six-mile loop around the San Diego bay with my sister. By the end, I limped to the car with sore feet and legs. After not exercising much during my pregnancy, I had 30 extra pounds on my body and out-of-shape muscles. I knew I had a lot of work to do.

I started on the Kern River bike path walking four-mile round trips from Beach Park to Mohawk Street and back. It took me 68 minutes. Derek slept the whole time. January was darn cold, so I'd bundle up Derek in fleece pants and a sweater, wrap him in two blankets, and cover his head with a warm hat and the hood of his sweater. I think he sweat more than I did on those first walks — but I didn't want to risk him getting cold. I loved walking on foggy days, when the sun was a blur and the leafless trees created stark outlines against the grey backdrop of the sky.

It's amazing to walk through the middle of a city and feel like you're out in nature. Sure, the dry river bed means the constant sound you hear is of Truxtun Avenue traffic rather than rushing water. But the mix of industry and nature has its own beauty. I came to enjoy the slow squeaks of the oil pumps, the loud clunk-clunk-clunks of trains passing over the trestle and the swish of vehicles racing along Highway 99 and Truxtun Extension. If I saw a train coming, I'd hasten my steps to see if I could make it to the trestle before the train. (It always beat me.)

As my training continued, I lengthened our daily walks to five miles, reaching the turn-around half-way through the Truxtun Lakes for a short breather before heading back to Beach Park. On the weekends, I'd leave Derek home with his daddy so I could walk eight, nine, then 10 miles all the way to Calloway and back. Those 2 1/2 hour walks are just too long to keep Derek in the stroller without stopping. My first milestone was Feb. 21 when I walked the half-marathon (13.1 miles) hosted by the Bakersfield Track Club. My marathon-running sister came up from San Diego to walk it with me and we clocked 3 hours 27 minutes. My only complaint about a walk that long is there are no bathrooms between Yokuts Park and the Park at River Walk. She assured me there will be portable bathrooms along the marathon course in San Diego.

Speaking of bathrooms, I witnessed — from a distance — some suspect happenings at the men's restrooms at Beach Park and Yokuts Park. Men of all kinds would drive up, park, go into the restroom, then come back out after a minute or two. I have an idea of what they were up to, although the brevity of their bathroom visit probably meant drugs rather than sex. But there seem to be some pretty lucrative businesses operating out of those restrooms. One day I was almost hit by a stop sign-running man in a huge black pickup truck at Yokuts Park. I watched him park, then get out and adjust his tight pants and silver sparkly wig before going into the men's restroom. Another day, I watched a young man escort an elderly lady with a walker from the restrooms at Yokuts Park. An hour later when I passed back by the same park, I watched cops enter the restrooms and guys came running out — including the young gentleman, who jumped into a car with the elderly lady and drove off very fast. That one threw me for a loop.

Aside from people watching, the bike path is also a great place for nature watching. On our walks, we saw hawks, egrets, herons, doves, ducks, scrub jays, hummingbirds, roadrunners, squirrels, rabbits (which I call bunny foo-foos), lizards, butterflies, bees, ladybugs and stink bugs. We saw lots of dogs, both with owners and wandering loose. One day I steered clear of a beautiful young pit bull, which seemed friendly but I just couldn't trust it with a baby. We also steered around more than one squirrel road-kill on the bike path. I wonder how many cyclists crash because of those kamikaze squirrels?

One of my favorite stretches along the bike path is the Bakersfield Environmental Studies Area, which spans from Coffee Road behind the Town & Country Village Shopping Center westward past Cal State Bakersfield, paralleling Stockdale Highway. I recently cut through the wilderness area and followed the dirt path among millions of wildflowers — mostly fiddlenecks, redstem filaree and goldfields. The very rainy winter season has caused an explosion of wildflowers all along the Kern River.

Since I started walking the bike path, I have lost six pounds and gained strength and endurance. I still have 24 pounds to lose, but I'm well on my way. I have three more months of training before the big marathon in San Diego. As one of my final long walks before the race, I'd like to walk all the way to the west end of the bike path at Enos Lane and back. I will most likely start at the Park at River Walk, which would make it an 18-mile round trip.

I have many hopes for the parks and paths along the Kern River in Bakersfield. I hope the flyover from Mohawk to connect to Rosedale Highway doesn't mess with the integrity of the Kern River Parkway. Trees and shrubs have already been removed from the river bank where the bridge will intersect with the disc golf course.

I hope a bathroom is installed near Truxtun Lakes so people don't have to use the bushes.

I hope the path continues to be shared in a friendly manner among the cyclists, joggers, walkers and skaters.

I hope the natural areas remain natural and are not developed for commercial interests.

Most of all, I hope local leaders decide to fill the Kern River with water to even further enhance the natural beauty of the area.

The Kern River and the bike path are wonderful assets to Bakersfield and its residents. I am so thankful that my family can be a part of the bike path community.

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

Catch of The Week

This beautiful rainbow trout was caught and released in Pine Flat Lake on Jan. 14, 2009 by Daniel Aguilar of Bakersfield. Daniel caught this massive holdover using an 1/8oz. gold Phoebe on 6lb. p-line with a Pflueger President 6730 spinning reel and 6'6 Daiwa Tierra ML rod. As backstory the trip was taken with two other friends, who are members of the local bass club, as a pre-fishing expedition for their upcoming tourney at Pine Flat. The bass bite was almost non-existent, with only one spotted bass caught between the anglers. As they were ready to leave, the group spotted a number of huge trout herding young of the year bass and trout into a cove by the marina and were just nailing them. With only three trout lures between them, the group caught around 50 fish in an hour, this monster being the largest of 3 huge ones.

Holiday & Cold Weather Pet Safety Tips

The weather outside may be frightful, but you can help make the lives of pets delightful this holiday and throughout the winter season. Kern County Animal Control has several tips to help pet lovers keep their pets safe, happy and healthy during the upcoming holiday, as well as precautions to take during colder weather.

"The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration, not one of sadness and pain due to the illness or death of a beloved family pet,” states Maggie Kalar, Marketing & Promotions Associate. “Kern County Animal Control would like to share a few valuable tips that can help families “pet proof” their holiday season to ensure that their pets will be around for many years of celebrating.”

Avoid poisonous plants including Mistletoe berries, Poinsettias and all varieties of Lilies. Alcoholic drinks; chocolate; macadamia nuts; walnuts; coffee; tea; salt, and onions can cause illness and even death. When wrapping presents and/or decorating, be aware of aluminum foil, cellophane candy wrappers, wires, tinsel, and glass ornaments as they are dangerous choking hazards. Watch out for electrical lights and extension cords as they are a temptation for pets to chew on. Keep pets away from Christmas tree water to avoid stomach distress, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Finally, when traveling with pets, make sure they are properly secured in the vehicle, and always wearing proper identification.

“Kern County Animal Control also has some winter weather tips for pets,” states Kalar. “Just because they have fur coats does not mean they can more easily endure the winter weather.”

Don’t leave pets outside when the temperature drops, bring them inside where they can be safe and warm. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Switch to plastic dishes during freezing weather to avoid your pet’s tongue sticking and freezing to metal. Ensure that your pet is well groomed; matted fur is not efficient at insulating.

If you notice your pet is shivering after playing outside, it’s time to bring it inside to warm up. For small breeds with little hair, consider getting a coat or sweater. Ice cuts and abrasions on the pads of your pet’s paws aren’t that unusual during winter months. Protect your pet’s paws with boots or protective wax and spray products. Never ever, leave your pet alone in a car during cold weather; a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death – it is also against the law. Mop up any antifreeze that may have leaked out of your vehicle as it is deadly for pets. Finally, before you start your car, bang your hood to ensure that no animal has climbed into the engine to stay warm.

Kalar also notes, “Winter weather can be hard on our animal friends, and it takes more than love to keep them warm and safe. We hope these safety tips will help pet owners and their friends enjoy the holiday as well as all the fun that winter has to offer.”

For more information on holiday and winter weather tips for pets, please call 661-868-7104, or log onto www.co.kern.ca.us/acd for a downloadable flyer.

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.

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.

Record-sized Red Pargo

This record sized Pargo was caught by Bakersfield fisherman Chip Wickline 61 on October 4th at Las Arenas near La Paz Mexico.

It was caught on a whole 2 Lb. Bonita on 30 pound test line fishing near shore with Captain Archangel on the gaff.

It was four feet in length and weighed 50 pounds and was quite the topic of discussion by all the skippers down there as they have not seen one this size caught for a long time.

Chip has fished in Mexico for over thirty eight years and has landed most species but this elusive one tops the list.

He was fishing with his buddies from Bakersfield, Bob Pair who caught many Dorado, Jorge delToro, who caught a 200 Pound Blue Marlin and Dave Peterson who also caught a Marlin.

Not all do-gooders are doing so good.

Another fundraising event occurred this morning on the bike path. It is a good cause, as many are, but once again people representing the organization somehow believe that they can ignore basic common sense and the law in the name of “doing good for the cause”.

Case in point: I was biking, on the bike path, during the setup for the Diabetes walkathon. Traveling eastbound, I was approaching the railroad under crossing, I noticed a westbound car on the bike path. It would slow down occasionally at which time two people would jump off of the hood of the car place signs along the bike path and jump back on the hood of the car so it could proceed to place more signs. As it came closer, I noticed that it was not a city vehicle, security patrol, or any other “authorized” vehicle.

I slowed to a stop and spoke with the man driving and reminded him that motorized vehicles are not allowed on the bike path. He said they were just putting up signs. I asked why they couldn’t walk to place the signs, since all the other participants would be walking during the fundraiser. He told me that the city said he could drive on the bike path to put up the signs.

When I first became aware of this incident the problem was simply another joker driving a vehicle where it legally didn’t belong. As it unfolded, the real problem became apparent; Some people think, in the name of “doing good”, they don’t need to follow basic common sense and laws - the people jumping off and on the moving vehicle’s hood were young teenagers.

Mr. Silver Mustang, you are plenty old enough to realize that a person can benefit a cause and still obey the laws and most importantly see to the safety of our children. You had every opportunity to show those kids, and all the others watching, how to give back to the community and make reasonable, rational, safe choices.

Lastly, Mr. Silver Mustang, your comment to me as I left to “Have a heart.” truly showed your ignorance. I was on my way to participate in the Ron Fontaine Run at CALM. The participants at that cause did it all legally without jeopardizing the safety of children or setting a bad example for them.

‘Boo-at-the-Zoo’ to introduce deer friends

Boo-at-the-Zoo will be the stage for the introduction of CALM’s newest, deer-est residents at 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 25. As it is, visitors who are age 17 or younger will be admitted free for a day of bewitchingly new and improved games, crafts and treats! Now, an additional treat, when CALM introduces two Mule deer fawns, the zoo’s newest residents at 10:30.

Last spring, the two, five-month-old, Mule deer fawns (Odocoileus hemionus) were orphaned and raised by the California Wildlife Center in Calabasas, which planned to release them back into the wild. Unfortunately, the animals became habituated to humans making release impossible. So, CALM is now their new home.

Both bucks are gentle, have distinct personalities and are comfortable in their new surroundings. The largest is outgoing, stays close to the animal keepers and craves attention. The smaller fawn is also friendly but content to chew its cud in the shade.

Mule deer are herbivorous browsers that prefer California’s foothill or wooded areas. When fully grown, they can eat up to two pounds a day. They quickly detect motion, even with rather poor eyesight for which a keen sense of hearing compensates. Bucks grow antlers which are shed in mid-winter each year.

CALM would like you to help name the two deer. Entry forms will be available at the event and at http://www.calmzoo.org/. Votes are $1 per entry. Grand Prize winners receive a CALM Family Membership and a plush toy fawn. Entry deadline is December 31. Winners will be announced Jan. 7. All proceeds benefit improvements in CALM’s Children’s Park.

Located at 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway (between Lake Ming and Hart Park) in northeast Bakersfield, CALM has cared for animals that have been injured or otherwise cannot survive in their natural environment for 25 years. Call (661) 872-2256 or visit the Web site for more information.

CSUB’s FACT hosts fall open house

The Facility for Animal Care and Treatment will host an open house on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 1-4 p.m. at its facility in the Environmental Studies Area at California State University, Bakersfield.

Visitors can:

* See the beginning stages of construction of the new rehabilitation area.
* See a variety of local birds of prey, including red-tailed hawk, Swainson’s hawk, great horned owl, barn owl, and golden eagle, as well as, songbirds, dragonflies, butterflies, squirrels, gophers, lizards and more.
* Study owl pellets to learn what wild owls have eaten.
* Learn about FACT’s animal rescue and bird foster parent program.
* Purchase T-shirts, including two new designs, zoo books, coloring books, cards and other educational materials to support FACT’s education programs.

CSUB students and faculty will give tours and demonstrations of birds of prey. Educational gifts and souvenirs will be available for purchase to support the non-profit wildlife rescue and education program.

The event is open and free to the public.

FACT’s mission is to serve as a wildlife rescue, conservation and education project for CSUB. FACT hosts an open house on the first Saturday of each month October through May.

For more information about FACT, please call (661) 654-3167 or log on to www.csub.edu/fact.

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!

Randsburg Celebration Sept. 20

The last "living ghost town" in southern California is the name given our eastern Kern County city. This 120-year-old boom town once had a thriving population of 4,000, in 1919, and was known as the biggest gold mine in California at that time. The quarter mile main street is lined with many of the original buildings, many which now sell antiques and artifacts along with a general store, saloons and cafes. Randsburg is about 40 miles northwest of Mojave, nestled within the red tinted hills of the Rand Mountain range.

Once each year, on Sept. 20, the little community really rocks as the local residents combined with hundreds of out-of-town vendors and visitors re-create the gold rush boom town days along their main street with the "Old West & Bluegrass Jamboree."

Randsburg is one of California's best known mining towns. With the $700 to $1,000 per ounce value on gold these days, many mines in the area are still being worked, mostly by independent groups or clubs which proves a lot of gold still remains hidden in those red colored mountains. In their active years of mining, these mountains produced more than $25 million of the yellow metal plus an equal amount of silver and tungsten. Scores of "gold hunter groups" come to Randsburg with their metal detectors, dry washing machines and old fashioned gold pans for a sometimes profitable weekend of outdoor recreation.

Randsburg's history can be reviewed in the many pictures and documents displayed in their great free museum which is loaded with artifacts including a rare narrow gauge steam engine which was used in the famous "Yellow Aster Mine." Also on display is an enormous stamp mill, old mining equipment, tools, wagons and enough relics to keep you interested for hours.

Admission is free so why not bring along the whole family and attend the "Randsburg Old West & Bluegrass Jamboree" for a day of fun? Here's directions for a picturesque drive to Randsburg: Take State Highway 14 north out of Mojave. As you approach Red Rock Canyon, a sign on your right will direct you to Randsburg.

Free Twilight at CALM Admission — Aug. 30

Saying good-bye to summer isn’t always easy, but to help with the transition, the “Valley Yellow Pages” is offering free admission to the first 100 adults who visit the California Living Museum during Twilight at CALM from 5:30-8 p.m. on Aug. 30. And all children (ages 3-17) will be admitted free, too. Officials at the “Valley Yellow Pages” want to help families enjoy the zoo and learn about their surrounding environment.

Guests will be treated to a wildlife demonstration, up close and personal opportunities to see Ambassador Animals displayed by strolling docents and rides on the Central California Children’s Railroad for only $1.

“Valley Yellow Pages” has chosen CALM to grace the cover of its 2008 phone directory. Inside the directory, you will find information about CALM and some of its animals, as well as coupons for admission to the zoo and 2008 HolidayLights at CALM.

CALM is located at 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway, (between Lake Ming and Hart Park) in northeast Bakersfield, and for more than 25 years has cared for animals that have been injured or otherwise cannot survive in their native environment.

For information, call (661) 872-2256 or visit the Web site,

http://www.calmzoo.org

Is Gabi seeing double?

These two fish caught in California Aquaduct off Hwy 119 with anchovies. One is 24 inches the other is 25inches.

Bakersfield is a Solar Gold Mine For Home Owners

This time of year in Bakersfield, it’s easy to have a chip on your shoulder while trying to avoid the blazing sun day after day, month after month.

Not me, every day the sun shines, I’m actually being paid by our utility company. You see, the roof of our patio is made of solar panels. So while our kids play ping pong in the shade of the “solar roof” we're sending energy back into the grid, earning credits and off-setting our usage. Essentially, solar power runs our air conditioners.

California is the third largest solar power producer in the world, and yet we are really only scratching the surface. Most home owners and businesses think that solar is a good idea, but they seem to think that solar power is still in the conceptual stage and not something to take advantage of now. Wrong.

Like the old saying, “There is no time like the present”.

I read an article recently in the Bakersfield Californian that local builders had dropped solar as part of their new construction standard features because of the additional cost.

While that may be a short term savings, it certainly does not pencil in the long run.

A friend of mine told me that he was interested in purchasing solar for his home when systems became more efficient. To me, that is like saying that I will not buy a computer until they become faster and cheaper. In the mean time I remain in the dark ages.

Now through November the State of California will pay a substantial check to home owners and businesses that install a solar system.

There are several companies in town that are qualified to do this type of work. Locally owned Sharpe Solar Energy Systems installed our system. They were very competitive and professional, the best part they did all the paperwork to get me a $14,000 rebate check from the state of California!

If we decide to sell our house and all things are equal, now whose home is the better value?

Take advantage of solar now and reap the benefits now and in the future.

About the writer: Jim Darling is an avid traveler and enjoys writing about his experiences. He has lived in Bakersfield his whole life.

San Antonio Stripers

Cary Welch and Van Foster of Bakersfield caught these 23 inch stripers May 17th at San Antonio lake. They were using anchovies for bait in Harris creek.

The Perfect Cure for Those Summertime Blues!

Now is the time of year when some youth activities start to shut down for the summer season, but this won’t happen with the Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Scouting is alive and strong with several summertime activities open to youth throughout Bakersfield and surrounding communities. Here is a sampling of activities being offered:

Council Pinewood Derby is tentatively set for Saturday, May 31^st at East Hills Mall in the center court. Boys are encouraged to build and race their Pinewood Derby car at this fun-filled annual event.

Scout Baseball. Boys AND GIRLS can play baseball in a non-competitive league which encourages every kid ages 6 through 12 to have fun. The Minor League is for kids 6 through 9 years of age while the Major League is for 10 through 12 year olds. The $60 registration fee includes a team T-shirt and hat, professional photos, 6 weeks of play (12 games in the season beginning June 3^rd) and one ticket to the “End of Season Gala” at the Bakersfield Blaze Baseball Game.

Cub Scout CSI Day Camp. Cub Scout-aged boys (1^st through 5^th grade) will find out “What happened to the doughnuts?” as they practice their CSI (Cub Scout Investigation) learning techniques to solve this mystery. Participants will learn how to become a master detective by dusting for fingerprints, building their own spy tools, cracking secret codes, learning how to observe, finding out how dogs help in the search and much more. There are two CSI Day Camps in Bakersfield this summer: July 7-11 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at California State University, Bakersfield and July 14-18 at Bakersfield College practice field. Cost is $90 until May 30^th and $100 after that date.

Many local Boy Scout Troops will be attending summer camp at Camp Kern on Huntington Lake this summer. Boys who join the Boy Scout program (completed the fifth grade and is at least 10 years old or who is age 11 but has not yet reached age 18) can also take part in the council’s Camp Kern Provisional Camp Program. This allows new scouts to get a jump start on their advancement and have loads of fun during this one week summer camp experience. Provisional Camp is from June 29 through July 5 and costs $300 for the entire week.

Boy Scout Troops and Venture Crews often plan additional summer activities and high adventure trips.

Many Cub Scout packs earn their Summertime Pack Award by holding at least one activity per month during June, July and August. This more-relaxed atmosphere gives den leaders a chance to “rest up” during the summer months but still allows existing and new Cub Scouts a chance to meet and have fun.

There are many Packs, Troops and Crews throughout Bakersfield and surrounding communities. Area youth can join anytime throughout the year and the registration process is simple and inexpensive. For more information please contact the Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America, located at 2417 M Street, Bakersfield, CA. 93301, by phone at 661-325-9036 or email at jwagner@bsamail.org Check out our website at www.sscbsa.org.

Big Fish Photo with Happy Fisherman

Rich Arner of Bakersfield landed this 15 lb steelhead on the Situk River Alaska 4/26/08. He was fly fishing with an 8 wt fly rod on an aeropuff egg pattern. 661-589-0446

Clinica Sierra Vista & Police Activities League "Launch Your Boats"

Clinica Sierra Vista's Male Involvement Program in collaboration with the Police Activities League (PAL), conducted a five month program called "Young Men Navigating Through Life." The program which stressed responsibility and youth leadership, also included a project where youth from PAL built individual model sailboats. On April 30, the culmination of the project, approximately twelve youth set sail their model sailboats at Lake Truxtun. Thank you to the youth at PAL for working so hard. What a special day!

CSUB’s FACT hosts open house this weekend

The Facility for Animal Care and Treatment will host an open house on Saturday, May 3, from 1-4 p.m. at its facility in the Environmental Studies Area at California State University, Bakersfield.

Visitors can:

* See the baby owls that FACT is raising and participate in the baby bird shower by bring items from the registry found on the facility’s website.
* See the beginning stages of construction of the new rehabilitation area.
* See a variety of local birds of prey, including red-tailed hawk, Swainson’s hawk, great horned owl, barn owl, and golden eagle, as well as, songbirds, dragonflies, butterflies, squirrels, gophers, lizards and more.
* Study owl pellets to learn what wild owls have eaten.
* Learn about FACT’s animal rescue and bird foster parent program.
* Purchase T-shirts, including two new designs, zoo books, coloring books, cards and other educational materials to support FACT’s education programs.

CSUB students and faculty will give tours and demonstrations of birds of prey. Educational gifts and souvenirs will be available for purchase to support the non-profit wildlife rescue and education program.

The event is open and free to the public.

FACT’s mission is to serve as a wildlife rescue, conservation and education project for CSUB. FACT hosts an open house on the first Saturday of each month October through May.

For more information about FACT, please call (661) 654-3167 or log onto www.csub.edu/fact.