Whiskey Flat Claimjumper 2013 by Kern River Courier

Join us in Kernville

Map of the Flat on page 10-11

February 15-18, 2013

February 2013

Whiskey Flat, Calif.

FREE

Welcome to Whiskey Flat Days! Enjoy the old-fashioned fun as the California Gold Rush town of Kernville as it returns to the 1860’s when it was “Whiskey Flat”

Town mayoral race under way Make sure that

Old west town returns to life

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Let your mind go back in time, back 150 years when the California was a state only 12 years old, when large portions of it were still Spanish land grants. The mighty Kern River splashed unfettered by concrete, dams or controls of any kind, down to a swampy San Joaquin Valley. The swampland down below, a vast area known as Tulare Lake, was full of tule reeds and was home to millions of birds. The people of the day reported seeing clouds of birds in the sky so thick that they blotted out the sun. In those days, there was little travel in the San Joaquin Valley itself because of the almost impassable land. Travel existed mainly in the foothills, where rivers and streams still had to be forded, but riding by horseback or muleback was much easier. Gold had been discovered at about the same time California had become one of the United States. Gold seekers came from every corner of the world, many by sailing ship into the port of San Francisco. They streamed overland into the interior portions of California. They supplied themselves with provisions at Visalia and then aimed themselves and their wagons at the Sierra Nevada. Gold was rumored to have been discovered at a place where two forks of a big river met, a place called the Kern River Valley. They streamed over the Greenhorn Mountains that formed the western boundary of the valley, their wagons slowed on the downhill side by big logs cut for that purpose. They came in mainly through Keyesville and down

INSIDE:

Michael Batelaan/Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Mayoral gun play - Canadates ‘Sharp Shootin’ Jami’ aka: jami Ward and ‘Tee Totalin’ Tony’ aka: Tony Julio shake arms at the start of the Whiskey Flat mayoral race. over the route that is now State Highway 155. In the year 1860, a man by the name of Adam Hamilton was one of those who made the trip over the Greenhorn Mountains. He was an American entrepreneur who decided to make himself a bit of money by selling what many of the miners craved after a hard day’s work – a drink of

spirits. So he led his burro laden with two barrels of whiskey down the eastern side of the Greenhorns. He had heard about a gold strike at the bottom of the gulch he was traveling down. It was some mighty well-paying ore, and there were a lot of miners working in a

Wild West Encampment rides into town

pages 6 & 7

See Old West pg. 6

Exactly where was the town of Old Whiskey Flat? Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper A lot of visitors wonder, as they enjoy Whiskey Flat Days in the town of New Kernville, exactly where the town of Old Kernville was. They know the original location is out in the lake bed, but where was Whiskey Flat? A clue to where Whiskey Flat was is the old part of the Kern River Valley Cemetery, which was a part of Old Kernville originally and is now part of the town of Wofford Heights.

Wofford Heights is adjacent to the former site of Old Kernville. Wofford Heights is named after an old-time rancher by the name of Irven Wofford, who sold off part of his ranch to valley folks who needed new places to live when the lake went in during the early 1950s. Old Kernville was located just to the northeast of Wofford Heights. Look in the lake bed just south of the Old Cemetery and you’ll see foundations. Those were part of Old Kernville. There are still people in New Kernville who

can tell you what buildings those foundations belonged to. Many of them serve as docents at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville, just down from the post office. In years when the lake is higher, you can’t see the foundations at all. They’re covered by the waters of Isabella Lake. But in lower water years, the former location of Old Kernville/Whiskey Flat is visible again. The lake recedes and little sandy flat where Old Kernville was becomes much as it was, with the placid Kern River as it did in the old times.

In 1991, the Kernville Chamber was having trouble getting Whiskey Flat Mayor candidates. Then Chamber president, Lanny Borthick got the idea of splitting profits with charitable organizations. The group then agreed on a 60/40 split with 60 per cent going to the Chamber. "That 60 percent promotes local business, promotes tourism, and keeps the visitors coming," said Cheryl Borthick, the current Kernville Chamber President. "An organization makes more money in a six week period than any other way. Whiskey Flat Days is the biggest four day event in the county." Meet the Mayor Candidates Sharp Shootin’ Jami “My sidekick, Sureshot Heather and I have been in this town for a lotta years. Life has been good and our chillens are right happy. They are so happy that they cheer. The distillery in this town lets me serve up their brew, and that makes my husband happy too. I am trying to get all you folks to ante up with some bribes, and in turn I will make sure that y'all have more fun than you ever dreamed of. If you think the politics are dirty, just drink up another one of the brews I serve, and it won't much matter to you no more! Just drink till she's pretty and the politickin' is clean, that is what I say. Buyin' some of my bribes will keep my girls a cheerin' and this will be a right happier town!

you know all the Whiskey Flat gun requirements.

4 5

What the heck is this rishes to rag pubication?

Dicover the town that Holywood found in the 1920,s

The fun starts with the Whiskey Flat Calendar of events

Learn how to fix up some cowboy grub so’s you won’t starve.

19 The frogs are hoppin” at Whiskey Flat

See Mayors pg. 4

Whiskey Flat Daze Wild West Rodeo on pages 16-17

page 2

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Whiskey Flat Celebration 2013 Weapons Carry Regulations For anyone wanting to carry a weapon during the Whiskey Flat Days celebration, a weapons and ammunition check is required. There will be a weapons check station at the corner of Kernville Road and Tobias Street and for enactors it will be at the "Sheriff's" tent in Whiskey Flat Camp (across from the rodeo grounds) Thursday evening though the weekend. Those carrying weapons in the Whiskey Flat Parade can have a weapons check at parade line up/check-in on Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m. Each participant must sign a release agreeing to the following rules: 1. Safety is our prime concern; for the re-enactor and the viewing public. 2. Read and acknowledge your right and responsibilities under AB-144 and PC 26350. 3. In order to be eligible for weapon carry, participants must be in period costume and participating in the parade or organized event as authorized by the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, such as costume contest, WFD Encampment, etc. 4. Handguns must be carried in a holster. No "belt" carrying allowed. 5. No live ammunition to be carried in the weapon or on your person at any time. If live ammunition is found, that individual will not qualify for "open carry" for this event and the Sheriff's Department will be notified and the applicant will be so advised. 6. Dummy ammunition only. Spent primers are preferred. Participants with live primers will have to demonstrate that the cartridge contains no

powder. 7. For those participants engaging in 'Gunfight' routines, blank rounds should only be chambered just prior to the routine, and removed immediately after it concludes. 8. Participants will be issued a ribbon indicating that they have agreed to the restrictions listed above and those required by law (AB-144 and PC 26350). This ribbon should be displayed prominently on the participant's costume above the waist. The ribbon means that the weapon with or without blank ammunition, confirmed as "dummy" type ammunition "for show only" has been checked by authorized designee appointed by the Chamber and the participant has read/signed the required waiver. 9. Weapons carrying participants may be subject to random checks by the Kern County Sheriffs Department to confirm they are in compliance with the above regulations and AB -144. All parade and Whiskey Flat Days open carry gun checks are provided as a courtesy service to the Kernville Chamber and at all times, are subject to any directives and/or restrictions of the Kern County Sheriff's Office. Kernville Chamber of Commerce and gun check personnel will not be held responsible for any gun display or use beyond that whichis permitted by the weapons carry regulations or state law. Weapons carrying participants may be subject to random checks by the Kern County Sheriffs Department to confirm they are in compliance with the above regulations.

Message from the Kern County Sheriff's Office On January 12, 2012, a new law was enacted in California related to the open carry of unloaded handguns. The new law, PC 26350(a)(1), makes it a misdemeanor to openly carry an unloaded firearm in public. Local law enforcement is committed to keeping the residents and visitors of Kern County safe and secure. They have also committed to enforcing both the spirit of the law as well as the letter of the law. They recognize the long time tradition of the Whiskey Flat celebration. It is the intent of local law enforcement to enhance the safety of both the spectators and those participating in the celebration. This will require a commitment of the Kernville Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Sheriff's Office to notify the public attending the Whiskey Flat event. Penal code 26375 states, "Section 26350 does not apply to, or affect, the open carrying of an unloaded handgun by an authorized participant in…[an] event, when the participant lawfully uses the handgun as part of that production or event, or while the participant or authorized employee or agent is at that production or event, or rehearsal or practice for that production or event." The Kern County Sheriff's Office will require the following: 1. On Saturday, February 16, 2013 during the

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parade and events on Piute Street, the public will be exempt from PC 26350 providing they and their weapon have been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Or 2. They are a member of an officially recognized reenactment group performing during the event; and their weapon has been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Or 3. They are within the Whiskey Flat encampment; their weapon has been checked at an official inspection site and are visibly wearing the proper identifying marker indicating their weapon has been inspected. Law enforcement has the authority to inspect weapons upon demand, make arrests; issue citations and seize weapons as evidence if the law is violated. It is the Sheriff's Office's intent to insure the visitors and participants of the Whiskey Flat celebration adhere to these requirements in order to provide a safe environment for all in attendance.

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There is nothing more exhilarating than to be shot at without result. --Winston Churchhill (1874-1965)

Annette Pounds

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 3

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page 4

February 2013

Mayors

continued from pg. 1 My charity, Kern Valley Youth Football and Cheer, is a non-profit organization that is designed for the youth of the Kern River Valley. It allows ages 4-14 learn Team Building and how to get along with others. It allows these children to do something other than sitting in front of the TV. My goal is to help these girls get enough money raised for new uniforms, sponsors for those that can't afford the cost of the program, ability to pay the fees that the school charges for practices and games.” Tee Totalin’ Tony “I think it is high time this here Valley did its best to clean up the dippin' in the PoorPocketed People's Poke that is going on in the less reputable speakeasies and saloons in our Valley.

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

“I have been a cowboy in these here hills and valleys fer 65 years. Life has been good for me and the little missus and our youngens but when I heard that our little distillery was putting a young lady up to running for Mayor of our Valley, I knew that Dirty Politics was in play. So being mostly honest and kinda truthful, I tossed my hat into the ring. As Mayor, I will do my best to make sure as I can to rustle up all the bribes possible honest or kinda honest to make our Valle y a fine place to bring up the youngens right and proper.” “I am raising money for Small Miracles Foundation, that helps families with children who are stricken with cancer. Providing transportation to get to the doctors, food on the table, or help with the electric bill are just some of the Small Miracles this Foundation is based upon. And my fundraising will also help Southern Sierra Council Boy Scout Troop 690, our local troop.”

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What in the heck is this riches to rag publication? The publication you’re holding is called the Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper. It’s published once year, especially for the Whiskey Flat Days festival. And this is our 10th year! For a few days in February, Kernville residents pretend it’s the 1860-1864 era of the Gold Rush, when the town went by its original name, Whiskey Flat. The Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper is put out by the folks who publish the Kern River Courier, a weekly newspaper in Wofford Heights. If you like this Claim Jumper, be sure to check out the Courier. It’s a free newspaper, available for pickup all over the valley every week. Or if you want the convenience of getting the Courier in your mail, you may want to subscribe. Get the Kern River Courier in your mailbox every week and find out what’s happening here in the beautiful Kern River Valley. It’s only $36 a year, less than $3 a month. Here’s a list of some of the Courier folks and friends who contributed to this year’s Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper. (If your name isn’t here, forgive us!) Michael Batelaan, Mike Ludiker, Sara Wakeman, Val Minoux, Bodfish Bob, the folks at the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, and too many others to list. If you’d like to make a comment on the Claim Jumper or get a hold of us at the Courier, here’s our contact information: Mail: P.O. Box 1145, Wofford Heights, CA 93285. Phone: (760) 376-2860. Fax: (760) 376-2862. E-mail: office@kernrivercourier.com.

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 5

Movie Street

Old Kernville made for Western films Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Old Kernville was a real Old West town, but in the late 1920s, after its Old West day had passed, Hollywood discovered the town as the Western movie craze grew. The town responded to accommodate the increasing numbers of crews arriving to shoot movies by building a special street parallel to Old Kernville’s main street especially for them. The late Bob Powers, in his book “North Fork Country,” wrote about Movie Street: “Movie Street in Old Kernville was a replica of a typical frontier main street. Originally called Granite Street, it was about two blocks long

and ran north-south along the hill west of town. The Methodist Community Church and the grade school were at one end, and a large barn on the A. Brown property closed the other end of the street. The fronts of other buildings (the backs of which were only shells) were built, including, on one side, a general store, assay office, jail and livery stable. On the other side stood a blacksmith shop, saloon, dance hall, hotel and harness shop. It was hard to realize when walking along the street or viewing the set in movies that many of these buildings were only propped up like billboards.” “On this street gallons of ‘blood’ were shed, and from the large old cottonwood tree in the schoolyard many a

More history is to be found at museum Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

We hope you enjoyed reading about Old Kernville. There are many more historical photos than we could possibly use, and lots of stories and artifacts and maps and all kinds of good stuff at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville. It’s not hard to find-- it’s across the street from Alta One Credit Union on Big Blue Road. If you like exploring the history of this area (and there’s a powerful lot of history here), the museum is a good place to start. Join the Kern River Valley Historical Society. They can tell you

how at the meeting, because they run the place. If you want some great history, pick up Bob Powers’ books (he wrote nine of them) at the library, or Marge Powers will be selling them again at Whiskey Flat Days. Look for her ad in this Claim Jumper. Ardis Walker’s books are a requirement, too. Ken Wortley was another. A memoir of Old Kernville just before the lake went in is available, if you want to read about what the place was like. It’s called “River Children,” written by Barbara Hinkey and Pat McPherson. You can get it through http://www.riverchildren.net/

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hangman’s noose swung.” In the evenings, many of the movie’s stars and crew would take part in local community activities in Old Kernville. Sometimes they would form a baseball team with the likes of Roy Rogers, Humphrey Bogart and John Huston filling the positions. Powers says in his book that other famous movie stars seen in the valley over the years included Dale Evans, Gabby Hayes, Yvonne DeCarlo, Victor McLagen, Audie Murphy, Andy Devine, Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson, Hopalong Cassidy, Gene Autry and Harry Carey. The Mountain Inn, at the time the only hotel in Old Kernville, served as headquarters for the film companies.

Many local people served as doubles, stand-ins and extras in the movies. Some working as extras donned cowboy costumes for a chase scene one day and then Indian costumes the next day for that side of the chase. Irven Wofford, owner of the ranch that would someday become Wofford Heights, provided much of the livestock for the films as well as wagons, buggies and other equipment. He also acted in some of the films. A list of films wholly or partially shot in the Kern River Valley is available at the Kern Valley Museum in Kernville. The list was assembled by the late Billy Couch, at the time the curator of the museum. Powers was also a curator of the museum.

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page 6

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Old West

continued from pg. 1 mine called the Big Blue. So Hamilton found the center of the mining camp, found a plank of wood, set it across his two barrels and started selling his whiskey. Unfortunately, the spot he picked was in the middle of folks who did not care for the evils of spirits. They asked him to move his makeshift bar away from that spot, and he did. The spot he picked was on a little sandy flat next to the river, now more placid than it was higher up in the mountains. The miners started moving their own camps down closer to his establishment. As the ones who enjoyed a tipple now and again gravitated there, a town started to grow. That town was called by several names, but the one that stuck was Whiskey Flat. Four years later, things had changed a lot. A new county, Kern County, had formed. There were houses and hotels in the town, some eating houses and a few stores. There were real streets, a dry goods store, a feed stable, some saloons, a blacksmith shop and a brewery. The town was now too civilized to be called Whiskey Flat any more. So it was renamed. The name that they chose was Kernville. Kernville in its original location existed for almost 100 years. It survived the years when the gold ran out. The citizenry switched to ranching and similar pursuits. Kernville saw the coming of hydropower plants put in to serve the electricityhungry city of Los Angeles. The area was later discovered by Hollywood as an ideal place to make Western movies, and from time to time, stars like Tom Mix, Roy Rogers and Hopalong Cassidy could be seen here. John Wayne came here to shoot a scene for the classic “Stagecoach.” WWII came and went, and then the Kern River Valley saw something new coming in that changed the face of it forever.

Experience the Whiskey Flat historical Encampment Find out what it was like in the 1800’s. There is a chuck wagon with cookin’ and coffee, ax throwing, period tool demonstrations and more!

The indian camp will show you the Native American experience, a fire pit cooking authentic foods, Native American games, crafts, and artifacts from the past!

See Old West pg. 14

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Encampment Cast & Credits ~ Event directors ~ Producer: Mike Woodward Sheriff: Francis Moore Whiskey Flat Camp: Francis Moore, Dave Ryskamp Mountain Man Camp: Dee De Moore Indian Camp: Horse Robinson and Kate Devries Mounted/ Equestrian/ Cavalry: Mike Woodward, Perry Steinhoff Gunfighting /Skits and shows: Nathan Eddy, Rob Lambert, Richard Rasner Troupe Mining/ Sawmill/ Blacksmithing: Perry Steinhoff Chuck Wagon: Randy Hoskins, Dennis Young, Bill Schonhorst, Rose McLaughlin Settlers: Jeannie Hawkins Outdoor Church Service: John Spoon (Pastor Jesse Lee Bennett), Jeannie and Jerry Clearwater (music), Eileen Bissmeyer Thanks to the Folks that help make Whiskey Flat Encampment possible Kernville Chamber of Commerce for on-going assistance. Mike Ludiker for our Web Page George Randall and talented staff for their exceptional interest and heavy equipment for grounds preparation. USFS for camp wood Kern County Sheriffs Department for outstanding cooperation and support. Kern County Sheriffs SAL Kids Chuck Barbee for Documenting the History of the Valley in "Wild West Country" on DVD.

Bob Powers BOOKS Books by the late

February 2013

page 7

Encampment’s 10th year Sunday Feb. 15. The Encampment is across from the Whiskey Flat Encampment is back. It's Rodeo Grounds down in the "Flats" by the hard to believe this year is the 10th anniver- River. There will be three camps for your The Whiskey Flat Camp, sary of Lone Star Productions Whiskey enjoyment: Flat Encampment. Every year the Mountain Man Camp, and the Native American Indian Encampment Camp. These has grown and attractions show last year it was you the real estimated that Whiskey Flat and on Saturday have been a feathere were ture of Whiskey upwards of Friday: Noon to sundown Flat Days celebra5,000 visitors Saturday: Immediately followtion for a decade treated to ing the Parade to sundown now. The absolutely periSunday: 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Encampment is od correct expedesigned to give rience by over It’s an educational encampthe whole family a 100 re-enactors. ment with authentic demonglimpse at what This Camp strations of life in the Old life may have been promises a very West! On Friday and Saturday like back in the unique historiat 2 and 4 p.m., and Sunday at 1800's. Camp cally accurate 11 a.m, you’ll see history and activities will be experience for gunfights. All day there will be interactive and the whole family a Wells Fargo station and there will be many again this year, eatery, Chuck wagon cook'n opportunities to says Mike and coffee, a horse trader and speak with the resWo o d wa r d , livery. There’ll be horse shoe'n idents of Whiskey Producer of and horse doctor'n, the Flat, Mountain Whiskey flat Whiskey Flats Saloon, a Justice Men, and Native encampment. of the Peace, a Saddle maker American Indians We even have a and leather craft, a Bath house, from the 1800's. surprise or two Beautifier and Hygienist, storyCome smell the in mind for the tellers of the Old West, mining Cowboy Coffee new and repeat and sawmill demonstrations and experience life visitors. This and a Civil War Confederate as the Pioneers Camp is dynamic camp! did. Old Fashion and offers new Train Service experiences begins from the every year. When: February 15 thru the 17 during Museum to the Whiskey Flat Encampment. The Whiskey Flat Encampment will feaWhiskey Flat Days. Camp events begin at Noon Friday Feb. 15 and ends at 2 p.m. ture hold-ups and gunfights, immigrant Lone Star Productions

Encampment Schedule

Bob Powers, Local Historian and Author A eight-volume historical account of the Kern River Valley. All nine books are presently in print, beautifully printed and bound and will be available in Circle Park during Whiskey Flat Days. South Fork Country, Visit our booth in Circle Park North Fork Country, during Whiskey Flat Days Hot Springs Country, Kern River Country, Indian Country, Desert Country, High Country and This Old House. are $30.00 each See Marge in Circle Park February 15, 16, 17 and 18 during Whiskey Flat Days. Or place your order by mail to: Marge Powers P.O. Box 204 Kernville, Ca 93238 7 6 0 - 3 7 6 - 2 3 2 9

STIRE S TEWART’ TEWART’

wagon with period music, cowboy cookin', horse tradin', livery and wagon sales, blacksmithing and handmade trinkets, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', Whiskey Flats Saloon with dancing girls, Justice of the Peace and old west church service on Sunday at 10 a.m., saddle maker and leather craft, old west chuck wagon, old saw mill and mining demonstrations and story tellers of Old Whiskey Flats: Stories acted out by real actors and actresses of how Miners, Cowboys and Outlaws got along (or didn't get along) in the old days. A Hold-up or two of the scheduled coach service to the Whiskey Flat Camp will thrill the Coach Riders (or scare 'em to death). The Native American Encampment led by Horse Robinson will include authentic crafts, Native American hand games, Native American food, demonstration on basket making, beading, regalia making, and other items, drumming, singing, dancing, speaking in local native language, Native American cultural displays using artifacts from their ancestors, and actual building of the huts from natural native resources. There will be a display and Information of the local native plants used by Local Native Americans and activities throughout the day and constructed houses used in the 1800's by the Native Americans in this area, an open fire pit used for cooking and a story teller of Native Americans from the Valley. The Mountain Man Camp will include Fur trading, Tee Pee's, trapping and hunting demonstrations, period cooking demonstrations, mountain man shelters, winter camp and clothing. For further information and a schedule of events go to whiskeyflatcamp.org/ or on Facebook 'Whiskey Flat Encampment"

Tires • Wheels • Repairs Cars • Trucks • Motorcycles RV’s • Trailers

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page 8

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 9

Calendar of Events

Whiskey Flat Days This schedule of events is subject to the information available to the Claim Jumper and the Kern River Courier at press time. All event times and locations are subject to change at any time without notice. Events may be canceled, postponed and/or rescheduled at any time due to weather, or any other circumstances beyond the control of the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, its independent entertainers, vendors, volunteers and groups involved.

Thursday February 14 High Noon Epitaph Contest Judging

Alta One Credit Union forms available at Kernville Chamber and at Alta One, Kernville. All epitaphs will be judged Thursday noon and placed in Boot Hill, at the corner in Circle Park on Friday. Contest sponsored by Pat Turnham Realty.

5 p.m. Cowboy Auction

At Ewing's on the Kern, Kernville. Open: 5 p.m. Sign Ups: 6 p.m. Auction: 7 p.m. Contact Tony Cain at 760-378-3408. This is always a popular event!

Shoppe, shot gun weddings, saddle makin' and leather craft, and more! Story tellers, Dave Ryskamp, Dave "Horse" Robinson, and Nathan Eddy will tell stories about miners, cowboys and outlaws. Open til sundown.

Children's Activities Riverside Park:

by the Wild and Scenic Kern River Children can fish in the "Fish Tank" by Friends of the Hatchery. Amazing Bounce, with bounce houses, Rock wall by Kiddie Amusements, and roll on water with Bubble Fun!

1 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show

Corner of Kernville Rd and Valley View Dr Across from the Pizza Barn.

5 p.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

on Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills. Save 50% on presale tickets: sales throughout the Valley until February 15! Open until 10 p.m.

Dinner is served

Friday February 15

All around town at all your favorite restaurants.

7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley

On Piute Drive. Music by "Obsidian."

Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Jacalito's, Big Blue Bear, and breakfast items are available at Sierra Gateway and Primo's.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kern River Valley Art Association Arts & Crafts at Kernville Oddfellows Hall, corner of Tobias and Scodie.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kern Valley Museum

Open on Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.

10 a.m. Annual Kern Valley Women's Club Luncheon

At the Elk's Lodge in Wofford Heights. Doors open at 10 a.m. Presale tickets only, admission $15. Call the KV Women's Club at 760-376-4578.

High Noon Golden Gulch opens.

Circle Park, Frontage Road, Riverside Park. Crafts, handmade jewelry, info booths, art and more! Food vendors are non-profit organizations: Kern Valley FFA, Sweet Adelines, Tubatulabal Indians, Rotary Club of KRV, Elks Lodge, and Mt. View Baptist Youth Group. Whiskey Flat Headquarters and Info is on the corner of Kernville Road and Tobias Street selling Whiskey Flat shirts and memorabilia. Pick up your Claim Jumper, Whiskey Flat Miner and the most "upto-date" Schedule of Events!

Contest Applications available

At Kernville Chamber info booth: Adult Costume Contest: Sponsored by Stella Enterprises Child Costume Contest: Sponsored by the Pizza Barn Pet Parade Contest: Sponsored by Critter Sitters Whiskerino Contest: Sponsored by Val's Beauty Shop Epitaph Contest: Tombstones on display at Circle Park. Check ‘em out! Sponsored by Turnham Realty

Noon to Sundown Whiskey Flat Encampments

Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments, on Scodie Avenue across from the Rodeo Grounds. Life in the Old West! Save the leather on yer boots and catch the Western Express Railway Train in town and ride to the encampments. Watch hold-ups and gunfights, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', turn of the century saw mill demonstrations, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. There's cowboy cookin', a Whiskey Flats Saloon, and Old West Mercantile

7 to 9 p.m. Street Dance

7 p.m. Whiskey Flat Melodrama

The Ratcatcher's Daughter, or, Kern Valley Daze, by Sierra Performing Arts. Kernville Elementary School Auditorium, $7/adults, $5/kids under 12.

“

”

I've had no more luck than a duck with a doorknob. -Bob Burns as Hank York in "Wells Fargo". Filmed in Kernville 1937

Saturday February 16

9 a.m. 2012 WFD Parade Line Up On Sierra Way.

Schoeppner Carnival opens

On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills. Open until 10 p.m.

Trout Hatchery Opens

Museum and Visitor Center 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sierra Way, one mile north of Kernville. Free admission.

Kern Valley Museum Opens

On Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.

“

Some men are like books written in a strange language, and that makes it awfully hard to read them

”

- John Wayne as Chris Morrell in "'Neath the Arizona Skies". Filmed in Kernville, 1934

11 a.m. Whiskey Flat Days Parade

Music on Movie Street. 156th anniversary of the Town of Whiskey Flat, a.k.a. Kernville. Sierra Way at Kernville Road. Awards given at 2:30 p.m. at Circle Park Center Stage. Get yer spot early! Parade Schedule: National Anthem, 2012 Grand Marshals, Sweet Adelines and Out of the Blue, 2012 Whiskey Flat Honorary Mayor, "Flower Filly Sue", 2012 WFD Mayor candidates, Jami Ward, "Sharp Shootin’ Jami" and Tony Julio "Tee Totalin’ Tony", Special VIP guests and delightful parade floats! Parade announcer, Geoff Emery, KUZZ Radio. Parade route: From Sierra Way and Kernville Road, south. Across the bridge to Kern River Drive by Riverside Park. Around Riverside One Stop and up to Kernville Road to Tobias. Then Piute Drive to Big Blue Road and end at Kernville United Methodist Church, Big Blue Road and Sirretta Street.

High Noon Whiskey Flat Encampments

Kernville Chamber.

Immediately following the Parade. Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments, on Scodie Avenue across from the Rodeo Grounds. Life in the Old West! Save the leather on yer boots and catch the Western Express Railway Train in town and ride to the encampments. Watch hold-ups and gunfights, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', turn of the century saw mill demonstrations, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. There's cowboy cookin', a Whiskey Flats Saloon, and Old West Mercantile Shoppe, shot gun weddings, saddle makin' and leather craft, and more! Story tellers, Dave Ryskamp, Dave "Horse" Robinson, and Nathan Eddy will tell stories about miners, cowboys and outlaws. Open til sundown.

9 a.m. Golden Gulch opens

1 p.m. Line Dancing

7 to 10 a.m. "Breakfast"

$7 a plate, tickets at the door. Kern River Masonic Lodge, 562 James Road, Kernville. Turn uphill past Sierra Gateway Market. Always a favorite breakfast: get there early!

8:30 a.m. VIP Parade breakfast

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Arts & Crafts show

Kern River Valley Art Association Arts & Crafts at Kernville Oddfellows Hall, corner of Tobias and Scodie.

Children's Activities Riverside Park:

By the Wild and Scenic Kern River Children can fish in the "Fish Tank" by Friends of the Hatchery. Amazing Bounce, with bounce houses, Rock wall by Kiddie Amusements, and roll on water with Bubble Fun!

By "TLC" -Totally Loves Country. Circle Park Center Stage. Free Admission.

“

Frenchy: Get out before I kill you! Tom Destry Jr.: You mean you haven't been tryin'?

”

-Marlene Dietrich and James Stewart as Frenchy and Tom Destry Jr., respectively, in "Destry Rides Again". Filmed in Kernville 1939

1 p.m. Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo

McNally's Rodeo Arena. Cotton Rosser's Flying-U Rodeo sponsored by Bud Light. Open Team Roping, Bull Riding, Hide Race, Open Barrel Race, Junior Barrel Race, Calf Scramble, Sheep Riding, and more. Entertainment!!

See Schedule pg. 12

page 12

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Calendar of Events

Whiskey Flat Days Schedule

continued from pg. 9

1:30 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show

Corner of Kernville Rd and Valley View Dr Across from the Pizza Barn.

“

"…You see, the thing is this - women are... uh, well, they're uh... Well, son, I can tell you what an Indian will do to ya, but you never know what a woman will do.

”

-Gary Cooper as Wild Bill Hickok in "The Plainsman" Filmed in Kernville, 1936

2 to 6 p.m. Concerts by the River Begin

Music in Riverside Park. Free admission. Come hear your favorite band.Concert schedule is subject to change. 2 Wonderland Soup Kitchen 3 Another Roadside Attraction 4 Out of the Blue 5 Jest Reason

2 p.m. "First Heat" of the Frog Jumpin'

Contest held at Piute Drive by Center Stage. Watch "Pie ala Toad" and "Sir Richtoad" compete, along with many more frogs. Bet on the Jumpin'est Frogs in the West! Finals Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Free admission.

2:30 p.m. Parade awards

At the announcer's stand in Circle Park.

3 p.m. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show

Corner of Kernville Rd and Valley View Dr Across from the Pizza Barn.

3 p.m. Concert by the River 3 Another Roadside Attraction. 4 Out of the Blue 5 Jest Reason

7 p.m. Whiskey Flat Melodrama

The Ratcatcher's Daughter, or, Kern Valley Daze, by Sierra Performing Arts. Kernville Elementary School Auditorium, $7/adults, $5/kids under 12.

“

Steve Andrews: A fine way to treat a lady! Virginian: How was I to know she was a lady? She was with you, wasn't she?

”

-Sonny Tufts and Joel McCrea as Steve Andrews and The Virginian, respectively, in "The Virginian". Filmed in Kernville 1946

Sunday February 19

7 a.m. Breakfast All 'Round the Valley Find your favorite eatery. In Kernville, there is Cheryl's Diner, Cracked Egg Café, El Rio, Jacalito's, Big Blue Bear, and breakfast items are available at Sierra Gateway and Primo's.

9 a.m. Golden Gulch opens

the most "up-to-date" Schedule of Events!

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Arts & Crafts Show

Kern River Valley Art Association Arts & Crafts at Kernville Oddfellows Hall, corner of Tobias and Scodie.

1 p.m. Sign Ups for Whiskerino Contest

Children's Activities Riverside Park:

9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whiskey Flat Encampments

Cowboy and Mountain Man Encampments, on Scodie Avenue across from the Rodeo Grounds. Life in the Old West! Old West Church Service today at 10 a.m. Save the leather on yer boots and catch the Western Express Railway Train in town and ride to the encampments. Watch hold-ups and gunfights, horse shoein' and horse doctorin', turn of the century saw mill demonstrations, and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. There's cowboy cookin', a Whiskey Flats Saloon, and Old West Mercantile Shoppe, shot gun weddings, saddle makin' and leather craft, and more! Story tellers, Dave Ryskamp, Dave "Horse" Robinson, and Nathan Eddy will tell stories about miners, cowboys and outlaws. Open til noon today.

“

Lady and Man, American Indian Lady and Man, Fancy Lady and Man, Authentic Indian Dress, Modern PowWow, Best Overall Family. Children categories include Frontier Girl and Boy, American Indian Girl and Boy, and Fancy Girl and Boy. Prizes awarded. Entry is free.

”

Have you heard the Mayor candidates speechifyin' yet?

10 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills. Open until 10 p.m.

Trout Hatchery Opens

Museum and Visitor Center 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sierra Way, one mile north of Kernville. Free admission.

Kern Valley Museum Opens

On Big Blue Road next to the Post Office. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historical Society, mining info, Indian exhibits, artifacts and photos from yesteryear when Kernville was Whiskey Flat, 1857.

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Concerts by the River Begin

Music in Riverside Park. Free admission. Come hear your favorite band. Concert schedule is subject to change. 11 Garden Fellowship 12 Down Finger 1 Fight Like This 3 Allasso

11:30 a.m. "Final Heat" Frog Jumpin' Contest

Held at Piute Drive by Center Stage. Watch the Jumpin'est Frogs in the West! These are the finals: Cheer on your favorite Jumpin' Frog. Free admission.

High Noon Lots of Contest Sign Ups!

1860's Costume Contest sign ups. Adults and children forms at WFD Info Booth. Judging starts at 12:30 p.m. Adult costume contest sponsored by Stella Enterprises & child costume contest sponsored by Pizza Barn.

Pet Parade Sign Ups!

Forms at WFD Info Booth. Judging at 2 p.m. Pet Parade sponsored by All Creatures Feed & Supply.

12 p.m. Concert by the River Down Finger.

12:30 p.m. Old Fashioned 1860's Costume Contest

Sponsored by the Pizza Barn. Piute Drive and Big Blue Road: Circle Park. Note: Adult categories include Frontier

Whiskers, beards, all mustaches apply. Ribbons awarded Free to enter! Forms at WFD Info booth. Contest sponsored by Val's Beauty Shoppe.

Whiskey Flat Days Rodeo

Concert by the River Fight Like This.

2 p.m. Old Fashioned Contest

Whiskerino

Sponsored by Val's Beauty Shop. Sign up by 1 p.m. Piute Drive by Circle Park.

Pet Parade

Five Categories: WFD's Theme, Matched Pair, Smallest, Largest, Funniest! Grand prize and ribbons awarded - Free. Sponsored by Critter Sitters.

3 p.m. 2013 Honorary Whiskey Flat Mayor Announced!

Who will be the 2013 Whiskey Flat Mayor? Piute Drive by Circle Park. Drawing: Who will win the $500 Shopping Spree?

Concert by the River Allasso.

Monday February 18 9 a.m. Golden Gulch opens

Circle Park and Frontage Road, free admission.

Children's Activities Riverside Park:

By the Wild and Scenic Kern River Riverside Park by the Wild & Scenic Kern River.

10 a.m. Schoeppner Carnival opens

On Kernville Road, across from Pizza Barn, by the Forest Service Work Center. Great adult and children's rides and games. Chills and thrills.

“

Dobbs : If you're the police, where are your badges? Gold Hat : Badges? We ain't got no badges. We don't need no badges! I don't have to show you any stinkin' badges!

”

-Humphrey Bogart and Alfonso Bedoya as Dobbs and Gold Hat, respectively, in "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" Filmed in Kernville 1948

Ya'll come back, now next year, ya hear?!

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 13

• WANTED • Ladies and their Valentines Corral Creek and McNally’s Steakhouse want y’all to know, you don’t need no rented cowboy if you got yer own Valentine! Treat him to a giant steak and a roost by the river. Reserve our Whiskey Flat Valentine Special

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in Mounta y a w h rt ver. n Hig k Resof Kernville oenic Kern Ri e e r s C l r vation north oWild and Sc Corram e s s e l e i R e Just 8 ross from th ckage ur ine Pa90 or visit o t n e l 99 ac a and V 50-57 ort.com dging-3601, 760-3 s o L r o F reekre 76 c 3 l a 0 r 6 r 7 o call ite www.c ST webs

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Prime Rib Served every Friday 15 miles north of Kernville on Mtn.99

For Dinner Reservations

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Thursday, February 14th, 4:00 to 9:00pm Valentines Special Friday, February 15th 4:00 to 9:00pm Prime Rib Special

Home of the 40oz.Porterhouse

from he roahduttle and t p e u s s u free s ix mile eakho lly’s Setakhouse is asntage of theout any a N c M e adv s with ly's St McNall Creek. Takfew cocktail Corra ourself to a treat yg worries. drivin

Dinner Reservations Suggested

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Hamburgers In The Bar Saturday & Sunday Whiskey Flat Weekend Only 10am to 3pm

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page 14

February 2013

Old West

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

prepare to greet the many thousands of visitors who come to join in the celebration that celebrates the 1860-64 days of Whiskey Flat. People come from all over to see the Whiskey Flat Days Grand Parade and the shoot-’em-up shows, take part in the many contests such as the old-time costume contest or the frog jumpin’ contest, partake of the carnival rides, enjoy the shenanigans of the Honorary Whiskey Flat Mayor contest (during which the candidates try to out-joke each other), eat some great food, or just walk around and enjoy the clean mountain air in one of the nicest little towns you’ll ever see. People flock to the Kern Valley Museum to see photos of the original Kernville, maps of the area before the lake was here, and displays featuring the history of the Indian tribe that called this area home long before the American settlers came. Want to see some of the other original buildings from Whiskey Flat? Go to Silver City Ghost Town in Bodfish, where they moved a lot of local old-time historical buildings in order to save them. Enjoy the music, the parade, the oldfashioned contests, the mountain views, even the weather as we celebrate the era of 1860-64 all over again, when Old Kernville was Whiskey Flat.

continued from pg. 6 Kernville was told its days were numbered. Residents who had grown up here, some whose families had been here for generations, were told they had to move away. A government flood control reservoir was coming into the Kern River Valley. The citizens of Kernville were told they had to move to higher ground or have their houses by covered by the rising lake. Kernville refused to lose almost 100 years of history. Many of the citizens of Kernville decided to move en masse to higher ground a few miles to the north, onto the former Burlando Ranch, where they could establish a new Kernville. By the early 1950s a new Kernville stood. Some of the original buildings from Old Kernville were moved there; others were newly built. The people of New Kernville picked up their lives and started a new history. But the citizens couldn’t forget the original town’s old history, a colorful Gold Rush past that was matched by very few American communities. So the townspeople decided to hold a yearly celebration in the winters when times were slower and people could enjoy the fullWestern

mountain experience and remember the Gold Rush times. Each year the townspeople of New Kernville put on their Western duds and

Vitaliia's Dance and Fitness 6501 Wofford Blvd. Suite C Wofford Heights Choose the program that fits your needs Zumba, Zumba Gold, Big or Lil Starz ZubaTomic, 55 & up, Pilates, Belly Dancing, Line Dancing, Total Body Burn, Spin Class, Personal Training, Gym Equipment, Russian Face Lift Massage, Tanning Bed, Birthday Parties & Special Event Performances available!

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Town loves a parade

Michael Batelaan/Whiskey Flat Flaim Jumper

The Whiskey Flat Days Grand Parade takes place on the Saturday morning of Whiskey Flat Days. Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

The Whiskey Flat Days Parade started about the fifth year of the festival in 1961. John E. McNally was master of ceremonies that year, and he announced the parade for many years before he passed away in 2007. Lloree Knowles, a local real estate agent, organized the first parade and was chairman for many years. Over the years, the parade has grown to become possibly the highlight of Whiskey Flat Days. Each year many thousands of visitors and locals line both sides of Kernville Road and other

locations in Kernville to see the many floats, equestrians, marching re-enactors and clowns make their way along the parade route. The parade starts at the corner of Kernville Road and Sierra Way, ready to cross the bridge and enter the Circle Park area. From there the parade turns left on Kern River Drive and goes along Riverside Park. Then it turns right on Kernville Road again around Riverside One-Stop and up Kernville Road to Tobias, the street on the east side of Circle Park. Then up to Piute Drive to Big Blue Road and another right turn to Whitney Drive.

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Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 15

How to fix cowboy grub so’s you won’t starve 2 teaspoons salt 6 (4-ounce) cans diced green Chiles, drained 3 (14 1/2-ounce) cans chicken broth 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce, or to taste

Recipes by Bodfish Bob

Camp Fire Breakfast 1/2 lb bacon 1 medium onion 2 lb. bag of frozen hash brown pota toes 1/2 lb. grated cheddar 1 doz eggs Small jar of salsa-about 1 cup (optional) This recipe requires 6-9 bottom coals and 12 -15 top coals. Pre-heat 12" Dutch Oven. Slice bacon and onion into small pieces and brown until onions are clear. Stir in the hash brown potatoes and cover. Remove cover and stir occasionally to brown and heat potatoes (15-20 minutes). Scramble the eggs in a separate container and pour the mixture over the hash browns. Cover and cook until eggs start to set. (10 - 15 minutes) Sprinkle grated cheese over egg mixture, cover and continue heating until eggs are completely set and cheese is melted. Optional: Pour small jar of salsa over cheese/egg mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. Slice and serve.

Chili Verde 2 pounds boneless pork butt (shoul der), cubed and dusted with flour sea soned with black pepper 2 tablespoons bacon drippings or veg etable oil 3 cups chopped onion 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon oregano 2 tablespoons ground cumin

1. Heat fat in Dutch oven over medium-high heat; add pork cubes and brown evenly on all sides. Add onions and garlic to pan; cook and stir until onions are tender, about 10 minutes. 2. Stir in remaining ingredients and bring all to a boil. Lower heat to a simmer, cover and simmer until pork is very tender and liquid is slightly thickened. 3. Serve immediately over hot cooked rice, if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs. Serves 8.

Pot Roast 2 Tbs. Bacon grease or olive oil 1 Tbs. Balsmic vinegar 2 tsp. Dry rosemary; rubbed 3 Tbs. Brown sugar 2 med. Yellow onions; sliced 1 Tbs. Soy sauce 4-5 cloves garlic; sliced 1 bay leaf 3-4 lb. Beef chuck roast 1 tsp. Black pepper salt and pepper to taste 1-2 lbs. Baby carrots 1 cup hot beef stock or broth 6-8medium red potatoes; skins on, cut into chunks 1/4 cup honey barbecue sauce 1 tsp. Thyme 2 Tbs. Red wine vinegar 1 Tbs. Parsley flakes

Heat a 12" deep Dutch oven using 2022 briquettes bottom until oven is hot. Add bacon grease or olive oil, rosemary, and onions; cook 2-3 minutes until you start to see a little color on the onions then add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute longer. In a large measuring cup combine the beef stock, barbecue sauce, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, bay leaf, and black pepper; stir to mix then pour juice slowly into the oven. Season the roast with salt and pepper then add roast to oven and cover with as many of the onions as you can. Replace the lid then reduce the number of coals on bottom to 10 and place 14-16 coals on the lid. Cook for 30 minutes rotating oven every 15 minutes. After 30 minutes add carrots and potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley flakes. Replace the lid and continue baking for 60-90 minutes until vegetables are fork tender. Serves: 8-10

Chorizo and Eggs 3 links of Chorizo sausage links ½ c chopped onions 6 eggs, beaten Salt & pepper to taste 8 flour tortillas Remove sausage from casings. Cook with onion over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes in a skillet. Add eggs to sausage and scramble. Serve on hot flour tortillas.

Smoked Green Beans 1 smoked ham hock

1 lg. Can green beans 2 tbsp. Sugar Drain green bean juice into large pot. Skin tough skin of ham hock off to expose meat and fat. Cook ham hock in green bean juice about 1/2 hour. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and green beans to pot. Cook another 1/2 hour. Stir juice over beans to flavor.

Collard Greens with Neckbones 1 pound pork neckbones 2 bunches of collard greens 1 teaspoon of salt 1 tablespoon bacon drippings Dash of red pepper sauce Salt & pepper Boil neckbones in a large saucepan. Remove from the broth. Add the greens (wash well before cooking) to the saucepan. Cook on low heat until tender. Add bacon drippings, red pepper sauce to greens. Season with Salt & pepper. 4 to 6 servings

Potato Biscuits 1 cup mashed potatoes 2 tbsp. Butter 2 cups flour 1 tbsp. Honey 1 cup buttermilk 1/2 tsp. Baking soda 2 tsp. Baking powder 1 tbsp. Brown sugar Mix ingredients and roll out on wax paper. Cut biscuits and bake at 400º F about 10 min.

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page 16

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Kernville's Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo John E. McNally Arena Kernville Saturday & Sunday february 16th & 17th Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Barrel Racing

The Kernville Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo is the town's first Rodeo of the season and a rip roarin' western gathering. Get your boots and saddles and head on up for this leap back to the good ol' wild west days. The 2 day event is held at McNalley Rodeo Arena in Kernville at 1:00 p.m.

Kernville Rodeo History

Irwin Wofford had the contract to provide horses and cattle for these Westerns and John E. McNally, Jr. was one of the ranchers who rented out his stock to the movies. In the 40s and 50s, McNally also supplied horses and cattle for rodeos as far away as Nevada and Oregon. He supplied animals for the Kernville Rodeo and maintained the grounds and buildings for several years. The Kernville Chamber of Commerce named those rodeo grounds the "John E. McNally Rodeo Grounds" and they remain in active use. McNally also worked as a logging truck driver for Mount Whitney Lumber Company. He drove a DW-20 while working on the Isabella Dam project in the late 40s, early 1950s. Along with author/historian, Ardis Manly Walker, John helped to start the annual Whiskey Flat Days Parade in 1957 and he was there announcing from a portable stand in Circle Park for 28 years. He also served as the parade's Grand Marshall. Before his death at age 94 in July 2007, John E. McNally, Jr. said, "I wouldn't trade anything I've done. I'd do it all over again. My life has been very interesting with lots of experiences."

In this event, time is the only enemy and horsemanship is a rider's greatest weapon. Because of barrel racing's fast and furious pace it is always a crowd favorite. Each contestant enters the arena on a sprinting quarter horse at full gallop. An electronic eye begins time the moment the rider enters and ends the instant they leave. Every contestant must ride a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels before exiting the arena. A five-second penalty is awarded for each overturned barrel; however no penalty is given for touching or moving a barrel. The final times are recorded to the hundredths of a second.

Bull Riding

This is one rodeo contest the novice spectator can enjoy fully as much as does the hard core fan. It, of course, demands athletic skill and hard-won knowhow. But, essentially this is a contest of raw courage and a true, deepseated spirit of try. In short, it takes good, honest guts. A loose rope straps a man's hand to threequarters of a ton of awesome power. There isn't time to think and react. It must be natural, automatic coordination and determination that keeps the man on top. If the spirit hesitates for a split second, even subconsciously, the rider is doomed. Though the rider isn't required to move his feet as in bronc riding, you will see many cowboys do so. They are scrambling to keep contact with the bull, whose power is too great to permit a solid lasting hold with the rider's feet. The animal is still judged for how hard he bucks, and the bulls that perform in a tight, fast spin usually draw the highest scores.

Steer Riding

This event is offered for our teenaged cowboys and cowgirls ages 12 to 15. It is similar to bull riding only the riders are mounted on steers-which can buck as any bull! The rider must stay mounted for eight seconds and is judged on how the animal bucks as well as how the contestant rides. The cowboy or cowgirl with the highest score wins.

Mutton Bustin

This even has evolved over the past several years for our young buckaroos ages 5 to 7. These youngsters can give you a run for their money as they bounce out of a chute mounted on the back of a wooly sheep. No rope is used, and these youngsters, wearing protective helmets, can give as exciting a ride as seen anywhere. Each buckaroo is awarded a ribbon and bandana for their daredevil ride.

Hide Racing

The hide race is exciting and unique to the Kern River Valley. The race consists of a team of two of any gender. One person is mounted on horseback; the other is mounted on a rawhide attached to the end of a lariat. The person on horseback holds the other end of the rope usually dallied around the saddle horn and races around the arena, pulling their teammate on the rawhide. The excitement comes as the one on the rawhide is dragged around the arena flipping, turning and eating arena dirt at breakneck speed. The team with the fastest time wins.

Bell Calf Roping

For this event, the calves have turned into young steers. A group of steers is turned loose in the arena, and one wears a bell

around his neck. At the same time, all mounted contestants, cowboys or cowgirls, enter the arena on horseback with ropes ready. The contestants attempt to rope the steer wearing the bell. The one who ropes the belled steer first wins.

Team Roping

In team roping, two riders are in a race against the clock to rope both ends of a steer. The "header" rides from the left-hand box behind the barrier. The header's task is to rope the steer first, ideally by the horns, but no penalty is awarded for catching it by either the neck or "half head," which is one horn and neck. After the catch, the header "dallies," or wraps the roe around the saddle horn, and turns the steer to the left in a wide arc. His teammate, the "heeler," who rides from the right box, stays behind the steer until the header turns it. The heeler's task is to rope both the steer's back legs with one throw. If he manages to catch only one hind foot, the team receives a five-second penalty. Time is stopped when both ropes are tight and cowboy's horses are facing each other.

Bull Riding

Sitting atop an 1,800 pound bull is a dangerous and often terrifying experience. However, if a rider has enough courage, lightening reflexes, strong muscles and the body control of a gymnast, he can have a successful ride. A flat-braided rope is the handhold a rider has in this roughstock event. Using his grip and some dry resin, he keeps that rope tight around the girth of the bull, just behind the front legs. The ride is supposed to last eight seconds and points are awarded for an aggressive riding style and for the bucking ability of the animal. Additional points can be earned if the rider uses spurs or "marks out"; however that is not required.

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A long-closed mortuary on Main St. will have a new life as a barbecue restaurant. Sam McAllister has bought the building that formerly housed Orville's Funeral Home and Crematorium and will open a barbecue restaurant as soon as the first of the month. However, McAllister says that several people have stopped by the building and registered complaints. "I think people may be jumping to conclusions," McAllister said of the crematorium, which is still located at the

back of the building and whose smokestack still dominates the Whiskey Flat skyline. "We will be doing our grilling on a portable barbecue out on the street," he said, noting that many people looked relieved when he gave them that bit of news. The former crematorium will be used to store spirits. Offered will be whiskey, ale and bourbon. McAllister said he will be hiring Orville Sonderville, the town's former undertaker, to be the cook.

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

February 2013

page 17

Kernville's Whiskey Flat wild West Daze Rodeo John E. McNally Arena Kernville Saturday & Sunday february 16th & 17th Rodeo Treminolgy

four feet and the head are not facing the same direction. Illegal. To get a time, the cowboy must turn the steer over or let it up and throw it again legally.

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Draw

Stock selection.

Arena Director

The person responsible for conducting a fast, smooth-running rodeo.

Average

At rodeos with more than one g-round, contestants earn money for each go, and those with the best total scores or times win additional money.

Bareback Rigging

A leather fixture with a suitcase-like handle that the rider grips with one hand.

Barrier

A line stretched across the roping box that is released when a calf or steer crossed the scoreline. If the contestant rides through, breaks the barrier before it is released, a tensecond penalty is added to his total time.

Bull Rope

A flat, braided rope that circles the bull's chest and is the rider's only means of holding on. No cinches or buckles are allowed-it's held in position by the grip of the rider. A heavy bell attached to the rope pulls the rope free after the ride.

Cantle

The seat back of a bronc riding saddle. The rider attempts to reach the cantle at the end of a spurring stroke. This is called "cantle-boarding."

Catch-as-catch-can

A calf roper is allowed to catch the animal in any way he chooses as long as he turns loose of the rope when throwing the loop, and so long as the rope hold the calf until the roper reaches it.

Contact Rule

States that bucking horse riders must place their heels above the horse's shoulders, making contact until the first jump is completed. If the rider fails to do so, he "misses the mark" and is disqualified.

Dally

A turn of the rope around the saddle horn. Team ropers dally their ropes after a catch to secure the steer.

Dink

A bucking horse with a reputation as a poor bucker.

Dog-fall

Entry fee

The money paid by the contestant before he can compete at a rodeo. Contestant must pay a separate entry fee for each event entered.

Fair

(Legal) Catch: In team roping, the header must catch the steer around the horns, head or neck.

Flagman

Rodeo Official who signals the end of elapsed time in the timed events.

Flank Strap

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Small soft rope, six feet long used by calf ropers to tie the animal's feet.

Pulling leather

When a saddle bronc rider touches any part of the saddle with his free hand during the eightsecond ride he is said to be pulling leather, or "grabbing a the apple" and is disqualified.

Rake

Spurring action of the rider on roughstock. Bareback and saddle bronc riders are required to continue spurring throughout the rides; bull riders are not, but sometimes score higher when they do so.

Another ride given to a bronc or bull rider in the same go-round when either the animal or cowboy is not afforded a fair opportunity to show his best, such as a chute-fighting animal that is impossible to get mounted on, when the animal falls or drags the cowboy off the chute gate.

Rowel

Circular, notched, bluntly pointed and freewheeling portion of a spur. They do not cut a bronc or bull.

Score

1. Distance between the chute opening and the score line; the head start timed event cattle are given in roping and steer wrestling, determined by the size of the arena. 2. The marking given rough-stock riders by the judges after a qualified ride.

Turn Out

To withdraw from a competition.

The hand not used to hold on during a ride. The rider is not disqualified if he touches the animal, himself or his equipment with his free hand.

Go-round

That part of a rodeo event in which every contestant has competed on one head of stock .

Hazer

A cowboy who rides alongside a steer opposite the steer wrestler. His job is to keep the steer running straight and close to the contestant's horse.

High Roller

A horse that leaps high into the air when bucking.

Hondo

The eye in one end of a lariat through which the opposite end is passed to form a sliding loop.

Hooey

The half-hitch knot a calf roper uses to tie three of the calf's legs.

Lap and Tap

An even start where the cattle in timed events do not get an advantage of 10 to 30 feet; used in small arenas.

No Time (NT)

Failure to qualify on timed event cattle, signaled by field flagman waving his flag side to side.

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Mounted arena official who assists bareback and saddle bronc riders in dismounting from their horses.

A sheepskin-lined strap with a quick-release buckle that is passed around th flank of a bucking horse or bull. It causes no pain but encourages the animal to buck.

Downing the steer in steer wrestling so all

WELCOME WHISKEY FLAT VISITORS!

Pickup Man

Cerro Coso Art Students Stone's Throw Gallery Christopher Owen (custom Jewelry) Curmudgeon Art Studios Redbud (custom wood and stained glass) www.redballoons.com Orion Crossing fine art and pottery Glassworks by Sarah Teed

Vintage photo courtesy of Chuck Barbee The A. Brown Store was in the center of Old Kernville.

page 18

February 2013

CENTURY 21 CREW “BELLY UP”WITH THE BEST TEAM IN THE VALLEY Robbin Smith - Bartender

Paul Mooney - Bartender

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

Whiskey Flattians fight back against bingo taxes The gentle citizens of Whiskey Flat have rebelled against proposed taxes on bingo. “I’ll rip their arms off and feed them to my hogs,” screamed Lettie Honeybutter, who normally spends her days doing pettipoint and making lace curtains while listening to her Victrola when she’s not playing bingo down at the Whiskey Flat Social Hall. “Nobody messes with my bingo!” Only she didn’t say “messes.” Unleashing a string of profanities that would leave a motorcycle gang member staring in shock, Lettie raised her cane and made a threatening motion toward the Claim Jumper reporter. “I only have my Social Security check and my couple of thousand shares in American Telephone & Telegraph. And that’ll never be worth nothin’,” said Lettie as she quivered in indignation. “What’ll they take next, my false teeth?”

The Whiskey Flat city fathers claim that they need to tax the paltry sums that senior citizens win from bingo. “We gotta raise taxes so we city fathers can get our semi-annual, semi-monthly, semi-hourly and semi-minutely raises,” said Toadly Lardbottom, a city father (well, he’s father to about half of the kids in Whiskey Flat, anyway). Scheduled for further taxation are baby buggies, baby buggie bumpers (a separate tax) and rubber baby buggy bumpers (a separate tax from the regular, non-rubber baby buggy bumpers). Oh, and babies will now be taxed as well. “And if we could figure out how to tax the actual act of procreation, we’d tax that too,” thundered Lardbottom. Safe from taxes for now are people’s land and their incomes, but who knows, someday the guvmint will figger out how to do that too.

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page 19

Doping scandal hits frog-jumping contest

Whiskey Flat

Frog

Jumping lineup

Sponsor Frog Name

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Why the leap to frog jumping? In 1863, a young journalist named Samuel Langhorne Clemens, traveling from San Francisco, CA to Virginia City, NV spent the night in Angels Camp, Calaveras County, California. Here, he heard the story of Daniel Webster, a famous frog who jumped higher and further than any other frog around. His owner, local gambler Jim Smiley never got tired of placing bets on his celebrated jumping frog. One day, a stranger took the bet. But when Jim wasn't looking, the stranger poured quail shot into Daniel Webster's mouth making it impossible for him to jump at all. The stranger won the $40 bet and escaped before Jim realized the con.

The story was first published in 1865 in New York's Saturday Press and the young journalist used the pen name Mark Twain. It not only laid the foundation for his fame, it also put the tiny mining town Angels Camp on the world's map. Here at Whiskey Flat, we celebrate this history with a frog jumping contest of our own. Everyone has a fun time placing wagers on the frogs and cheering the little guys on. It is fun to try to beat the odds. The winning frog nets you "frog bucks" script worth merchandise at local participating Kern Valley merchants. See Whiskey Flat schedule for the times and place of the races on Saturday and Sunday.

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Illegal doping has been detected in three of the frogs scheduled to jump at the Whiskey Flat Frog Jumping Contest this year. Contest officials were tipped off by a neighbor of an unnamed frog owner who said he saw frogs in the neighbor’s back yard jumping all the way over the house to a pond in the front yard. “These was no ordinary frogs,” said the neighbor, who has asked to remain anonymous due to the known cutthroat tactics of champion frog owners. “They is a devilish lot, those frog folks,” he said. Contest officials rushed to the home along the river in Whiskey Flat and, using a baseball mitt, were able to capture three frogs as they plummeted from a 100-foot height. After the watching crowd did the Wave, the three sample frogs were rushed to a laboratory, tested for

drugs and came up positive. “This is a scandal of the highest proportion!” hollered the current mayor of Whiskey Flat, “Flower Filly Sue.” “We won’t rest until we find every single one of these illegal frogs. The Whiskey Flat Frog Jumping Contest has always been an honest racket... er, I mean competition, and we don’t cotton to no fixin’ of the contest.” “Except by me,” one former mayor of Whiskey Flat was heard to say, who goes by the handle of Rapid Richard.. Contest officials were unsure of how to handle the scandal, but it was generally agreed that all the frogs should be tested and all those that tested positive would be disqualified. “It may be a coincidence and it may not be, but I’m planning a special on frog legs the day after the contest,” said Cheryl Borthick of Cheryl’s Dinner House. “Actually, I’m hopin’ there’ll be a lot of disqualification goin’ on.”

Mattress shortage causes Mrs. Tuttle's Tea and Ale House to close down Mrs. Tuttle has had to close her tea and ale house on the far outskirts of Whiskey Flat temporarily because of a severe mattress shortage. "We like to serve our tea and ale to those rough miner boys on pure down mattresses," said Mrs. Tuttle. "Straw pallets just aren't good enough

for us." Her 19 serving girls are out of work, she explained, until some new mattresses can be procured. "Some of them girls just really love to peddle their tea and ale on mattresses" she said," and they can't wait to get back to work."

page 20

February 2013

Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper

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