Spotlighting the best of the Kern River Valley
FREE Friday, December 12, 2008
A Community Partner and Award-Winning Newspaper
Sidewalk, bike path jobs start
Vol. 5 No. 45 Valley weekend weather forecast Fri.: Sunny, high 66. Fri. night: Mostly clear, low 40. Sat.: 20% showers, high 51. Sat. night: 20% showers, low 33.. Sun.: Slight chance showers, high 46..
Safety, walkability stressed
Sun. night: Chance showers, low 31.
Michael Batelaan Kern River Courier
National Weather Service
Four new bike path and sidewalk projects are slated to begin where the bike paths and sidewalks end in Lake Isabella. A summary of these Lake Isabella Blvd. projects was brought before the public Monday evening, Dec. 8, by the Kern County Roads Department. Mark Evans, Design Manager for the roads department, presented the four new bike path and sidewalk projects with the goal to provide much safer continuous bike lanes and walkable paths along the boulevard. The combined four roads projects are expected to cost approximately $1 million, Evans said. The first project has already begun under the contractor, Granite Construction, and will be between Erskine Creek Road and Turner Avenue. The details of the project are to pave and widen the westerly road shoulder along the Scovern wetland area from Erskine Creek
See PROJECTS, Page 15
‘Toys for Tots’ needed now Kern River Courier
SOS! Toys now! Today! Pastor William Blanton of The Salvation Army/Helping Hands Ministries reports that only 101 toys had been collected by press time to distribute among 256 needy Kern River Valley children up through age 15. Please buy toys and bring them, unwrapped, to any Toys for Tots collection box or to WEB Recycling in Lake Isabella. Or drop them off by tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Community Christian Service Center, 6105 Lake Isabella Blvd. in Lake Isabella, from 10 a.m. until noon.
Michael Batelaan/Kern River Courier
Wofford Heights resident Alfred Rodriguez, left, is an 87-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor who was honored at the groundbreaking of the new Bakersfield National Cemetery in Arvin on Pearl Harbor Day, Sunday, Dec. 7. At right is William F. Tuerk, Undersecretary of Memorial Affairs for the Veterans Administration.
Local man honored at debut of new National Cemetery Michael Batelaan Kern River Courier
A Wofford Heights resident and a genuine Pearl Harbor Survivor participated in the dedication of the brand new Bakersfield National Cemetery on a most appropriate day – Dec. 7, the 67th anniversary of the 1941 attack that brought America into WWII. Alfred Rodriguez, MMC, USN Ret., led the Pledge of Allegiance at the dedication of the new facility, located in rolling foothills near Arvin. Rodriguez, 87, was invited by letter to be Pledge leader by the Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C. During the dedication ceremony, all of the speakers made reference to Rodriguez’ service to his country, including keynote speaker William F. Tuerk, Undersecretary for Memorial Affairs for the VA, who recognized Chief Rodriguez as a "legacy for all Californians." After the dedication, Rodriguez said, "They said my name many times," referring to those who had spoken at the cer-
Bob Powers Gateway organization gets grant Mike Devich Kern River Courier
The Kern River Valley Heritage Foundation has received funding for a management plan, according to a member of the Sierra Nevada Conservancy – none other than First District Supervisor Jon McQuiston. McQuiston said in a statement to the Courier, “The Kern River Valley Heritage Foundation will develop a strategic plan for the management of the Bob Powers Gateway Preserve. This Preserve has an alkaline marsh onsite, which is a rare wet-
land type in the Sierra that provides habitat for a number of plants and animals.” Another grant was awarded to the Mojave Desert-Mountain RC&DC to expand and enhance the Sand Canyon Environmental Education Program of Ridgecrest, which provides classroom and field environmental education programs for fourth and fifth grade students. The Sierra Nevada Conservancy supports efforts that improve the environmental, economic, and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada region. Visit www.sierranevada.ca.gov, or call toll-free at 877247-1212.
emony. Rodriguez was born in Santa Barbara Sept. 1, 1921. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July, 1940 at San Diego. After boot training he was assigned to the U.S.S. Bobolink, stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (not yet a state). His normal duties consisted of minesweeping and towing targets for the battle force. It was Dec. 7, 1941,
See RODRIGUEZ, Page 8
New cemetery benefit to Kern County Priscilla Scott Special to the Kern River Courier
Close to 1,000 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 7 in Arvin for the new Bakersfield National Cemetery. Various motorcycle clubs from Kern County rode in and displayed American flags, encircling the dedication venue. The 500-acre site is located in the pristine oak-studded rolling hills of the Tejon Ranch, one mile south of Caliente and 22 miles east of Bakersfield at the junction of Highway 58 and Highway 223. The development will provide fullcasket gravesites, pre-placed crypts, in-ground cremation sites, Columbarium gravesites, roadways and other infrastructure improvements and landscaping. The new cemetery is estimated to serve the 200,000 veterans of central California over the next 250 years. The event was hosted by Bakersfield meteorologist Miles
See CEMETERY, Page 8
4
Terry Sweet and Roman Margis caught some great trout.
6
Henry Thal says not to listen to all the doom and gloom you hear.
15
Richard Rowe discusses how to green up Christmas cards.
Kern River Water Data: Wed. 6 a.m. Storage, Isabella Reservoir 110, 156 acre-ft. (Pool capacity is 568,075 ac.-ft. at the spillway. Current limit 360,000 ac.-ft.) Peaked at 258,239 ac-ft. June 16. Inflow, North Fork of Kern at Kernville 226 cfs (5-hr avg.) Outflow, Lower Kern 226 cfs Borel Canal flow 194 cfs Data from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cfs=cubic feet per second 1 cu.ft. = 7.48 U.S. gallons 1 ac.ft.= 325,851 U.S. gal.
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Kern River Courier
Friday, December 12, 2008
Kern River Valley – the place for fun 2008 events: Friday, Dec. 12 Candle Stroll and Live Nativity Scene, 5 p.m., Circle Park, Kernville. 376-2629.
Published Fridays by KRV Publishing
Spotlighting the best of the Kern River Valley Owners/Editors/Publishers Michael Batelaan Mike Devich Contributing Editor Mike Ludiker Contributors/Columnists Jack Bustamante Rod Middleworth Matt Freeman Bodfish Bob Sally Thornburg Debra Rundell Ron Bolyard Donna Fitch California Joe Harry Thal Clarence Semonious Marya Miller Richard Rowe Dona Anderson
Saturday, Dec. 13 Christmas Parade of Giving, 4 p.m., Kernville. Santa Claus appears in Circle Park. 376-2629.
Photographers Michael Batelaan, Mike Devich, Mike Ludiker Contributing Photographer Murdoc Douglas Ad Production Michael Batelaan, Mike Ludiker Advertising Sales Valerie Minoux Business Office Sara Wakeman Subscription Information The Kern River Courier is published and mailed weekly for $35 per year. Send payment to: Kern River Courier P.O. Box 1145 Wofford Heights, CA 93285 Advertising policies Publisher reserves the right to reject or cancel any advertising at any time. Cancellations or rejection shall not preclude payment on similar advertising previously run. KRV Publishing and the Kern River Courier are not liable for errors in copy or an advertisement beyond the cost of the actual space occupied by the error. Publisher reserves the right to place the word “advertisement” on any ad copy that appears to resemble editorial matter. Submission policies Editorial and photo submissions are welcome and will run at the discretion of the editors. Submissions will only be returned when accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The editors reserve the right to edit all submissions. The entire contents of the Kern River Courier are copyright ©2008 KRV Publishing. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written consent. All rights reserved. Letters policies Letters to the Editor are run when space permits. They are meant as an open forum for expression. The views expressed in the letters to the editor within this paper are not necessarily the views of this paper, nor those of the staff. Letters to the editor pertaining to local issues and events or those that affect our area are encouraged. Please include your real name, address and phone number for verification. Pen names or incomplete names are not allowed. The Kern River Courier reserves the right to exclude any letter to the editor, or edit its contents for length and prevention of libel, or for other reasons as seen fit by the editors. Letters should not exceed 200 words.
2009 events:
Regular meetings and activities
• 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., KRV CB’ers Breakfast, Sr Ctr., Lake Isabella • 9:30 a.m. Sequoia Amateur Radio Group, Youth Center, Lake Isabella. Second Sat. • 7-10 p.m.- Dam Dancers square dancing, 1st Saturday, Senior Center, Lake Isabella.
Sundays
Thursdays
Fridays • 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.- TOPS weight loss group, Mt.View Baptist Church, 2959 Erskine Creek Rd., Lake Isabella. 378-3935. • 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. - AA, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., Lake Isabella. • 5 p.m. - Kern River Hot Rodders Cruise Night, Circle Park, Kernville, 3rd Fri. • 8 p.m.- Al-Anon, Fellowship Bldg, 80 Evans Rd, Wofford Hts. For families of alcoholics. 376-2410 or 376-2066.
Saturdays
• 9 a.m. to noon - VFW Breakfast, open to the public. 2811 Nugget, Lake Isabella. 379-3877.
Mondays
Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and by appointment.
E-mail address: office@kernrivercourier.com
Tuesdays
Mailing: P.O. Box 1145 Wofford Heights, CA 93285 Office: 6392B Wofford Blvd. Wofford Heights (next to WH Post Office) Phone: 760-376-2860 FAX: 760-376-2862
Website: www.kernrivercourier.com
The Kern River Courier is a division of KRV Publishing Kern River Courier Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper Kern Angler ©2008 KRV Publishing. All Rights Reserved.
Wednesdays • 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 3795831. • 9:30-11 a.m.- Me & My Friends children’s playgroup, United Methodist Church, Kernville, 379-2556. • Noon- KRV Chamber of Commerce lunch meeting, Paradise Cove, 2nd Wednesday. • 1:30 p.m.- Clan Diggers meeting 2nd Wed. at Highland Chapel Methodist Church, Lake Isabella. 3rd Wed. - Workshop same location. • 3 p.m.- Republicans of Kern Valley meet 3rd Wed. 549-3033 for location. • 6 p.m. - Fish & Game Habitat Club meets, 631 E. Evans Rd, Wofford Hts, third Wed. • 6:00 p.m. American Legion, Lake Isabella Sr. Ctr. Veterans Rm., third Wed. 379-5488. • 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m.- Senior Dance, Senior Center, Lake Isabella dining rm., live band. • 7 p.m. Al-Anon, 80 Evans Rd. Wofford Hts, 376-2410. For families of alcoholics. 376-2410 or 376-2066. • 7 p.m. - Elks meet, Wofford Heights Blvd.
• 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 3795831. • 1 p.m. - Kern Valley Democratic Club, Senior Center, third Monday. • 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Line dance beginner classes, intermediate and advanced follow at the Senior Center. 379-0043. • 3 p.m. - Kernville Chamber of Commerce meets, board 2nd Mon., general membership 4th Mon. 376-2629. • 3:30-5 p.m.- Substance Abuse Family Support & Community Education, College Community Services, 2731 Nugget Ave., Lake Isabella. 379-3412. • 6-9 p.m. KRV Community Orchestra meets at Cerro Coso College, Lake Isabella, Rm G. 376-4461. • 7 p.m. KRV Art Association meets, 3rd Mon., Senior Center. 379-2844. • 7 p.m. Havilah Centennial Group meets 1st Mon. at schoolhouse. 379-2636. • 7:30-Al-Anon, KRV Hosp Cafe. Help for families & friends of alcoholics. 376-2410 or 376-2066.
KRV Publishing
376-2189. • 7 p.m. - KRV Historical Society meets, Senior Center, Lake Isabella, 4th Tues.
• KRV Garden Group, 2nd Tues. 379-6162. • 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 379-5831. • 9:30-11a.m.- Me & My Friends children’s playgroup, First Baptist Church, Lake Isabella. 379-2556. • 2 p.m. - KRV Cemetery District meeting at cemtery. 2nd Tuesday. Public invited.
• 9 a.m. to noon - Thursday Painters, Community Room, Senior Center, 379-5329. • 9:30 a.m. - Fire Safe Council, Supervisor McQuiston’s office, Lake Isabella. Third Thurs. • 9:30 a.m. - Aglow Int’l, Senior Center, Room 1. 2nd Thurs. For women. • 11:45 a.m. - KRV Woman’s Club meets, Elks Lodge 4th Thurs. (some exceptions). • Noon, Exchange Club meets, Paradise Cove. • 5 -7 p.m. - TANF Cultural Night - Native Youth & Community Cultural Ctr French Gulch Campground. • 5-7 p.m. VFW Taco Thursday, open to public. 379-3877. • 6 p.m. - Rotary Club meets - Golf Course, Kernville. • 7 p.m.-Sweet Adelines meet-Senior Center, Lake Isabella. Prospective members welcome. • 7 p.m.- Kern Valley Astronomy Club, museum, Kernville. 3rd Thurs. 376-1291
Bingo Guide Friday, 12:30 p.m. - Eagles Bingo, Eagles Hall, Mt. Mesa Saturday, 12 p.m., South Fork Woman’s Club Bingo, 6488 Fay Ranch Road. Sunday, 1 p.m. Moose Lodge Bingo, Lake Isabella Blvd. Wednesday, 1 p.m - Senior Center Bingo, Lake Isabella. Thursday, Early Bird 12:15-Regular 1 p.m. St. Jude Bingo, Hwy 155 & Nellie Dent Dr., Wofford Hts. This information is sent to the Courier by the groups listed. It is suggested that groups provide a phone number in case interested individuals need more information.
The Courier has received some of the dates that have been made available for the 2009 annual events shown below. Some are tentative. Call the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, (760) 3762629, or the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce, (760) 379-5236, for updated information. The Courier will make more dates available as information is received. January: Man and Woman of the Year banquet (Jan. 9), awards (Jan. 26) February: Whiskey Flat Days (Feb. 13-16), Heart Walk March: Living Green in the Kern Valley Festival (March 27-30), Keyesville Classic Mt. Bike Races April: Kern River Festival Whitewater Races (April 1819), Trout Festival, Kern Valley Nature Festival May: History Days, Classic Car Show (May 9) June: Kids Fishing Derby (California Free Fishing Day), Whitewater Wednesday July: Fireworks Over The Lake, Personal Watercraft Races August: Rubber Ducky Races, Hummingbird Festival September: Turkey Vulture Festival, California Free Fishing Day October: Kickin’ Back at Kernville Rod Run, Valley Fest, Casino Night November: Lake Isabella Christmas Parade December: Christmas in Kernville, Parade of Giving
Visit us at www.kernrivercourier.com, click on “Current Issues” on home page
Friday, December 12, 2008
Kern River Courier
Mark your calendar Fans of ‘Twilight’ to gather at library Dec. 13 “Twilight” by Stephanie Meyer is a best-selling book read around the world and a smash hit movie at the box office with both teens and adults. Fans of the Twilight series will be gathering to share their love for these books at a special program hosted by Kern River Valley Branch Library on Saturday, Dec. 13, 3:30 to 5 p.m. Come dressed as a favorite character and enter the costume contest. There will be Twilight prizes, a drawing for great a Twilight-related item and refreshments. Recommended for ages 13 and up. KRV Library 7054 Lake Isabella Blvd, 760-549-2083. Los Vaqueros Gymkhana Club games Dec. 13 The Los Vaqueros Gymkhana Club will hold a show at Jake’s Place arena (Sierra Way just south of Kernville Rd.) Saturday, Dec. 13. Spectators welcome. Starts 9 a.m. Rain date Dec. 20. Call 378-2885 for more information. Santa to appear in Circle Park Dec. 13, 17 and 20 Santa Claus will appear in Circle Park in Kernville right after the Christmas Parade of Giving on Dec. 13 at 5 p.m., and will appear again Dec. 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. and Dec. 20 from 4 to 7 p.m. Democratic Club serves Christmas luncheon Dec. 15 The Democratic Club of the Kern River Valley will hold their annual Christmas luncheon at the Moose Lodge on Monday, Dec. 15 at 1 p.m. The $14 lunch includes a 2009 club membership as well as turkey and ham “with all of the trimmings” plus dessert. There will be a 50/50 raffle. Reservations necessary by today, Friday Dec. 12. Contact Virginia at 3791262. Third Caravan For Compassion to be held Dec. 20 Following two successful Caravans for Compassion, another one is needed because of food shortages in our community. Saturday, Dec. 20, cars will be rounding the lake collecting food for our less fortunate. Nonperishable foods are needed, winter clothes, diapers. All donations go to the Food Pantry, God’s Storehouse and the Salvation Army. Join the caravan or just come to the stops and give. Kernville’s Circle Park 10-10:30 a.m., Wofford Heights Post Office 10:45-11:15, Lake Isabella Senior Center 11:30-noon, Mt. Mesa Market 12:15-12:45, Southlake Sierra Gateway Market 1-1:30 p.m.; South Fork Woman’s Club, Weldon, 1:45-2:15 p.m. For information, call 376-1546 or 223-0269. Breakfast with Santa Dec. 21 at Senior Center Santa Claus will be at the Senior Center in Lake Isabella on Dec. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon with gifts for the kids. Children’s Christmas party at Elks Lodge Dec. 21 The Kern River Valley Elks Lodge will hold their annual Children’s Christmas Party on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. Open to all children under 16. Visit with Santa and enjoy a hot dog, Christmas cookies and sodas. For more information call the Elk{s Lodge at 376-6475. Tattooed Santa to give away gifts Dec. 22 Frank from the Tattoo Shop in Wofford Heights will be playing Santa and will give away free toys on Monday, Dec. 22 at his shop at 6930 Wofford Heights Blvd. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. My Place serving free meal Dec. 23 My Place restaurant and guitarelements.com will once again be serving a free meal in honor of the Christmas season. This event will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 23 at My Place restaurant, 6206 Lake Isabella Blvd. from 11
Things I have noticed...
Be sure to eat your Wheaties Rod Middleworth Kern River Courier Columnist
I’m not a big breakfast eater. For years I’ve been content with a scrambled egg, a piece of toast and a swig of coffee. When I was a youngster, I ate cold cereal with an occasional dish of oatmeal or corn meal mush. But to my early taste Rod buds, nothing Middleworth could beat a bowl of Rice Krispies. Of course, listening for the “snap, crackle and pop” was always a draw for an impressionable boy. I also liked Wheaties, “the breakfast of champions.” I knew that eating Wheaties would give me lots of strength and after breakfast I would often stand in front of a mirror and flex my skinny muscles, humming "Have you tried Wheaties? The best breakfast food in the land!” Of course I noticed that cereal wasn’t the only reason for buying what sometimes tasted like sweetened sawdust. No indeed. I noticed it was often the prize inside the box. One treasure I found was a Lone Ranger decoder badge. With it I could decode the secret message from
Optimal Hospice Care is proud to be the only hospice provider to consistently serve the Kern
Courier early deadlines Christmas 12/26 issue: Ad deadline will be Friday, Dec. 19 instead of Tuesday, Dec. 23. We will then deliver Tues. and Wed. Dec. 23-24, before Christmas weekend starts. Office closed Dec. 25-28. New Year’s 1/02 issue: Ad deadline will be Tuesday, Dec. 23 instead of Tuesday, Dec. 30. We will then deliver Tuesday and Wed.nesday Dec. 30-31, before the New Year’s weekend starts. Office closed Dec. 31 through Jan. 4.
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River Valley for over 10 years. Our
the weekly Lone Ranger radio program. It was usually a message about being a straight shooter and doing good deeds. I would wait breathlessly, each week for my coded message so I could use my decoder. I also remember that getting a prize inside the carton was so tempting that sometimes I would sprinkle the contents of an opened cereal box into the chicken yard so Mom would have to buy more cereal. She never caught on, but we sure had some fat chickens. Sometime during this period I also ate Shredded Ralston. Mostly because my hero, Tom Mix, told me to do so. He would sing, “Shredded Ralston for your breakfast. Start the day out shining bright. Gives you lots of cowboy energy, with a flavor that’s just right. It’s delicious and nutritious, bite size and ready to eat. Take a tip from Tom, go and tell your mom, that Shredded Ralston kain’t be beat!” So I did! I still like Shredded Ralston. In fact, I had a bowlful this morning. There was, however, no prize in the box. What a bummer! Wofford Heights resident Rod Middleworth, a retired security manager for Pacific Bell, is an instructor for the local AARP Driver Safety Program and coordinator for the Lake Patrol volunteers.
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compassionate and dedicated staff are also valley residents.
Start learning today about hospice and when it is right for you and your love ones at: optimalcares.com
760-379-5038
at 6504 Lake Isabella Blvd., Suite E
“Caring Support When it Matters Most”
Adventures Kern River Valley information
Recreation Info U.S. Forest Service Lake Isabella office: 4875 Ponderosa Dr. (enter from Hwy. 155 just over the hill from Hwy. 178) (760) 379-5646 Kernville Office: 105 Whitney Rd. (around the corner from the museum) (760) 376-3781 (760) 379-5236
General KRV Info
Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce 6404 Lake Isabella Blvd. Across from Senior Center
R I V E R
Legend Boat Launch Ramps Camp Grounds z Towns Hospital + Other Features
Emergencies - call 911
Wofford Heights
Kern Valley Hospital McCray and Laurel, Mt. Mesa (760) 379-2681
Camp 9 Boulder Gulch Hungry Gulch Rich Gulch West Side French Gulch
French Gulch Marina Pioneer Point
Opening
d fiel ers k a B
Water Ski Area
Wildlife Area
South Fork Recreation Area
to Ridgecrest South Fork Wildlife Parking Area
Southlake
Mountain Mesa
Lake Isabella
Map courtesy Mike Ludiker www.kernvalley.com
November 29
Refrigerator Trucked Direct From Oregon Grand Fur (Douglas) Table-top to 9 foot $20 to $65 Noble Fur 5 to 9 foot $45 to $75 Fresh Wreaths & Poinsettias Also available At Crossroads Shell in Lake Isabella
Open:
Monday thru Friday 12:00 to 8:00pm Saturday & Sunday 9:00am to 8:00pm For more information Call: 760-549-3147
Let’s Go Fishing
French Gulch Marina is the place Jack Bustamante Kern River Courier Columnist
French Gulch Marina is still enjoying a fairly good crappie bite. Lots of little ones are biting and maybe two out of 10 are two-pound or better keepers. Fishermen with hot dogs are still bringing in some five to 12I don’t pound know if I catfish in should keep the French the hot dogs Gulch in the grocery area also. section of my I don’t know if I store or move should them over keep the with the rest hot dogs of the catfish in the grocery bait. section of my store --Jack or move Bustamante them over with the rest of the catfish bait. The trout bite on Isabella Lake is improving every day now. More and more trout are coming into the shallows all around the
“
The Kern River Valley Salvation Army
Needs your help! Make it a wonderful holiday season this year for everyone in the Kern River Valley Plan to donate to or volunteer for these major Salvation Army events:
”
Toys for Tots Drop off unwrapped toys in boxes at participating retailers in the valley, or bring them to the Salvation Army/Community Christain Center. You may send donations to, or you may drop by
Salvation Army/Community Christian Service C enter
LUNCH SPECIAL
1/4 lb. Hamburger & Fries $ 99
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Hours: Sunday thru Thursday Breakfast & Lunch 7am to 2pm Friday & Saturday Breakfast & Lunch 7am to 3pm Dinner 3 to 8pm
6629 Wofford Blvd, Wofford Heights 760-3 376-1 1600 Extra parking in back
760-379 -5100
Logos Trademarks Graphic Design Stationery Brochures Menus Packaging
P.O. Box 2786 6105 Lake Isabella Blvd. Lake Isabella, CA 93240
lake. It’s time to get out there and check out your favorite hot spots. Two very happy fishermen, Terry Sweet and Roman Margis, brought in nice limits of trout. The dam area is loaded with nice fish, they said. They are keeping their bait a secret. The bite is on, so let’s go fishing. Photos courtesy E&J’s Tackle and General Store. For bragging rights, bring your catch to E&J’s, 6498 Wofford Blvd, Wofford Heights, near the Wofford Heights Post Office.
ask us about
& Printing
Christmas bell ringing 60 volunteers needed to ring bells in front of local stores. Our major fundraiser to assist our community. All funds stay in the valley!
Special good for a limited time only. Notify your server about special when ordering. Offer can not be used in conjunction with any other offer.
Lake Isabella
Old Isabella Rd Auxiliary Dam Engineer Point Paradise Cove LI Visitor Center Kissack Bay Main Dam Hospital
Fresh Cut Trees
®
General Drainage Area 2,093 Square Miles Capacity, Gross Pool 570,000 Acre-Ft. Surface Area, Gross Pool 11,400 Shoreline, Gross Pool 38 miles Length, Gross Pool 9 miles Main Dam Maximum Height 185 Feet Length at Crest 1695 Feet Auxiliary Dam Maximum Height 100 Feet Maximum Length 3,257 Feet Lake Construction Started March 1948 Finished April 1953
County Dump Cyrus Canyon OHV Area Target Range ModelAircraft Controllers Stine Cove Robinson Cove Hanning Flat
North Fork Marina
To
Kern Valley FFA
Airport Wofford Heights Park
Tillie Creek Live Oak
Kern Valley Substation Sheriff’s Department and CHP 7050 Lake Isabella Blvd. (760) 549-2100 Weekdays only, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Airport Cafe at Kern Valley Airport Sierra Way, 4 mi. south of Kernville Rd. Breakfast & Lunch, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Great food 7 days a week
Kernville
STATISTICS
Golf Course
M.L. Ludiker Artwork & Design
Kernville Chamber of Commerce 11447 Kernville Rd. Kernville Corner Sierra Way & Kernville Road Toll Free: 866-KERNVILLE Local: (760) 376-2629
Donations are tax deductible
Friday, December 12, 2008, Mountain 99
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R N
Sierra Way
K E
P.O. Box 810 Lake Isabella CA 93240-0810 760/379-4860 lakedesign @mchsi.com
cardads economical business card ads
760-376-2860
Entertainment K E R N
Friday, December 12, 2008
R I V E R
Celebrity Extra Brinkley is ageless
Couch Theater ‘Ghost Town,’ ‘Duchess’ weekly picks Previews of new DVDs By DNA Smith PICK OF THE WEEK “Ghost Town” — This is one of those little gems that seem to come and go really quickly at the theaters, but hopefully find new life on home video as people discover them. “Ghost Town” is a wickedly funny romantic comedy starring Ricky Gervais (star and creator of the original “The Office”) as Bertram Pincus, a surly dentist who, after having a near-death experience, discovers he can see and speak with ghosts. One of the spirits he meets is Frank Herlihy (Greg Kinnear), who wants Pincus to prevent Frank’s widow (Tea Leoni) from marrying a lawyer he believes is only pursuing her for her money. Needless to say, high jinks aplenty ensue. What sets “Ghost Town” apart from most run-of-the-mill romcoms is that the story doesn’t go for cheap, sappy sentimentality. It’s refreshingly honest and human, and the performances by Gervais and Leoni are wonderful. It’s a rare date movie that even guys will love. ALSO “The Duchess” — Oh look: It’s Keira Knightley in a period costume drama! This time she’s stuck in the 18th century as Georgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire, ancestor of Diana, Princess of Wales. And like Diana, Georgiana was also the subject of much scandal, gossip and marital
intrigue. You have a choice: You can rent or buy this DVD, or you could just slap a big white wig and corset onto a box kite and make Monty Python noises at it. Guess which one I’m gonna do? Oh, come on. I’m just kidding. I Knightley don’t own a box kite. DOG OF THE WEEK “Eagle Eye” — Shia LaBeouf has the dubious honor of being in two of 2008’s big-budget stinkers. The first, obviously, was “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Suck,” the second being “Eagle Eye,” possibly one of the worst films of the year. Basically, the story is this: A computer that can control everything has gone bat-dookie insano, and then there’s a plot to assassinate the president using a boy’s trumpet, and Stupid McStuperson (LaBeouf) gets led by the nose by a disembodied voice to save the day while avoiding Billy Bob Thornton cuz ... that’s what you do. Seriously. I think it’s a law or something, because I bought a wallet last month and the picture that came with it was of Billy Bob Thornton, and stamped on it was “Avoid This Guy.” True story.
By Cindy Elavsky Q. My husband and I are having a disagreement over the DirecTV commercial with Chevy Chase. I say it is the actual clip from the movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation” with voiceovers. He says the Brinkley actors are “look-alikes,” not the original actors. Will you please let us know who is right? — Karen M., via e-mail A: You are mostly correct. DirecTV has a whole series of these popular commercials where they use actual clips from a popular movie (“Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” “Poltergeist,” “Misery” and more) and, using blue-screen technology, splice them together with one of the original actors touting DirecTV’s quality and service. For example, in the “Vacation” commercial you asked about, the beginning of the commercial and everything with Chevy Chase is from the actual
(Sony) 7. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (PG-13) Harrison Ford (Paramount) 8. Star Wars:The Clone Wars (PG) Matt Lanter (Warner Bros.) 9.The Strangers (R) Scott Speedman (Universal) 10. Iron Man (PG-13) Robert Downey Jr. (Paramount)) (Paramount) 10. Iron Man (PG-13) (Paramount) (c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
Sportsman’s Inn Every Friday & Tuesday Karaoke withTina & Jessie
7:00pm - 1:30am
cocktails • dancing • darts • pool Downtown Kernville
760-376-2556
movie. Everything from when Christie Brinkley comes up from the water after diving and begins singing the praises of DirecTV was filmed especially for this commercial, with Christie reprising her role as the Red Ferrari Girl from the 1983 movie. Twenty-five years later, and she can still convincingly play a 29year-old. Color me jealous! Q: What is former child actress Donna Butterworth doing now? — Linda S., Arcadia, Fla. A: The adorable singer/actress who starred with Elvis Presley in “Paradise, Hawaiian Style” and Jerry Lewis in “Family Jewels” is still singing and performing. The now-52-year-old Donna released a CD in 2007 called “The Girl in the Picture” and can be seen at Elvis conventions throughout the U.S. Donna herself recently said: “I am on the comeback trail. I know my life is entertaining people.” Have a question for Cindy? Email her at letters@cindy elavsky.com, or write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.
Reel Cinema
(c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
6742 Wofford Heights Blvd. Dec. 12 th Thru Dec. 24 th
This week’s top DVD rentals 1. Hellboy II:The Golden Army (R) Jeff Kahn (Dreamworks) 2. Kung Fu Panda (G) animated (DreamWorks) 3. Smart People (R) Dennis Quaid (Miramax) 4. Journey to the Center of the Earth (PG-13) Brendan Fraser (New Line Cinema) 5.The Incredible Hulk (PG-13) Edward Norton (Universal) 6.This Christmas (PG-13) Delroy Lindo
Page 5
THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL ~ S TARING ~
K EANU R EEVES & K ATHY B ATES WE ARE OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY! /Thr Action
-13 ted PG ill • Ra
• SHOWTIMES UPDATED DAILY • PLEASE CALL
376-3030
COMING DEC. 25th
BEDTIME STORIES Staring Adam Sandler
NEW YEARS EVE BASH LIVE AND IN CONCERT
• EXITHEAD •
TICKETS ON SALE NOW $10.00 EA. GOING FAST!
N RIVE R R E K ask about
daily SALOON drinkour specials!
Saturday- December 13th 8:30pm to 12:30am DJ Aaron Sunday- Pool Tournament 2:00pm • 50 Off Players Drinks c
Monday Night Football 50C Off Draft Beer • Prizes • Half-Time Food • 5:30pm Kick Off
Thursday- December 18th 7:00 to 11:00pm Karaoke Party with Roy Grumpy Hour 4-6 pm Mon.- Fri. • Free Pool All Day Thurs. & Sun • Only Shuffleboard in Kernville
20 TOBIAS ROAD, KERNVILLE
(760) 376-4786
Drink Responsibly... Please Don’t Drink & Drive.
K E R N
R I V E R
Wellness
Page 6
Good tidings from Social Security Kern River Courier
As the holidays approach, Social Security has good tidings to share with Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries: they will receive a 5.8 percent increase in benefit payments beginning with the January payments! The 5.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that over 50 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2009. Increased payments to more than 7 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 31. Social Security and SSI benefits increase automatically each year based on the rise in the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), from the third quarter of the prior year to the corresponding period of the current
year. This 5.8 percent increase is the largest since 1982. Along with the annual COLA comes other changes, including an increase in the amount of wages subject to Social Security tax. In 2008, the maximum taxable amount was $102,000. Beginning in 2009, the maximum taxable amount will be $106,800. This change will affect about 11 million of the 164 million workers who pay Social Security tax. The tax rate remains the same: 6.2 for employers and employees, and 12.4 for the self employed. In 2009 it will take $1,090 in taxable earnings to earn a credit of coverage for Social Security, up from $1,050 in 2008. All workers can earn up to four credits in a year. The average retired worker will receive $1,153 per month in Social Security benefits in 2009, up from
See SECURITY, Page 7
Friday, December 12, 2008
Health Insurance Matters
Economic woes hit everyone Henry Thal Kern River Valley Courier columnist
Has your disposable income gone down the kitchen disposer? I turn on the news to hear one economic problem after another. Unemployment is growing, businesses are closing and peo- Henry Thal ple are reluctant to spend. Their reluctance, of course means there is less income coming into the stores, hence, more layoffs and store closings. Then more people are out of work, and less money flowing in the economy. My solution is to turn off the television, mute the radio and don’t read the Wall Street Journal. I firmly believe that if everyone were not bothered by these woes, it would go away, as those working would continue spending, and the economy would rebound. But, in the real world, many families need to tighten their belts. One way is to assume a greater risk in your health care. Now, if you have any medical problems which are ongoing, or could flair up, the last thing you need is to change your health insurance. First, it might be difficult to get a new policy, and secondly, you are using it, so you are getting value. What about healthy people? The very last thing you can afford is a major hospital or other medical expense. Cancer treatments can run into thousands of dollars per month,
and that is following a surgery! If money is tight, and you can qualify, consider a high deductible health plan. They cover absolutely nothing until you reach the deductible, then there are some plans that will cover 100 percent of all medically necessary procedures. Sorry, face lifts and tummy tucks aren’t considered necessary. The high deductible plan offers several different monthly premiums, the higher the deductible, the lower the monthly cost. Beware, that couples and families typically need to have two people meet the deductible before all family members are covered. They need a lower deductible, just to be prudent. This type of plan is also a good alternative to the plan that a spouse might get from work, if the employer is then payroll deducting the monthly dependent premiums from his/her paycheck. It may take this country a while to get out of this economic crisis, but if you can individually keep going, life can be sweet. Harry P. Thal, MA, Certified Senior Advisor, is a licensed insurance broker in California (0621106) and other states. He is a member of the Kern Valley Hospital Advisory Board, President of the Kern Association of Health Underwriters, and a member of the National Ethics Bureau. Harry is on the NAHU Medicare Advisory Board. He also serves on the board of the California Association of Health Underwriters. He may be reached at 760-376-2100, e-mail harrythal @aol.com or visit him on the web at www.harrythal.com
Kern Village - The Burlington Assisted Living
We proudly provide: • Spacious rooms with cable and • Emergency call systems in each room • Daily on-going planned activities • 24 hour caregiver assistance • Medication management • Nutritionally balanced meals • Housekeeping & laundry services • Transportation to local doctors and dentist of your choice All for one low cost. Located in the beautiful mountain communities of Kernville and Wofford Heights, our facilities offer a variety of services to meet the needs of our loved ones. For more information, call or visit us at 32 Burlando Road Kernville, CA 93238 760-376-6733 Paula Glidewell, Administrator
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Phone (661) 410-1010 • Fax (661) 410-1110 Toll Free (888) 833-3900 • www.hoffmannhospice.org
13 Sycamore Drive Wofford Heights, CA 93238 760-376-6474 Shirlin Linton, Administrator LIC#155801223
HEALTH INSURANCE We represent most major California insurance companies Since 1982
Harry P. Thal Insurance Agency 760-376-2100 HarryThal@aol.com
www.harrythal.com
Nationally recognized Medicare authority. President-Elect Kern Assoc. Heath Underwriters
CA Lic.0621106
Friday, December 12, 2008
Kern River Courier
Country Living
Early Christmas in L.A. California Joe Kern Ruivr Courier Columnist Off we went for our Friday morning appointment at Cedar-Senai hospital in Los Angeles. Miz Sue’s final checkup with the renouned surgeon Dr. Albert Country Joe Silberman. He was his usualbushy grey-haired ebbulient self, always joking and wisecrackingwhile closely monitoring his patient’s situation. And that evening after checking into our Super 8 nMotel in North Hollywood, we met up with another couple and off we all went to the NoLo Arts Center in NoHo to see “Yo-HoHo-A Pirate’s Christmas.” No Lo Arts Center is an attractive well-lit theatre building on Magnolia Street right in the heart of the new theatre district just east of Lankershim which houses a number of “off Broadway” theatre houses. You walk into a pleasant, well-lit house lobby and shortly thereafter you are ushured into the theatre itself which looks to be a 99-seat theatre all, gussied up for the season’s holidays. And at 7:30 p.m. the houselights dim and the show begins right on schedule. Suddenly pirates seem to be swinging in on ropes from everywhere. Singing, swinging, they appear on this kingly open stage which resembles a two-story kind of grey baronial courtyard. They sing and they slap at each other and they run through the aisles and one can quickly tell this will absolutely be an interactive evening. Yo Ho Ho indeed! Well sir, so far Alaska seems to be as far north as Miz Sue and I have ventured on our North Pole adventure up ’til now. But I could quickly tell we were in for a new adventure. Seems these pirates had
somehow landed near the North Pole and were about to storm ol’ Santa’s year -round workshop. The pirates succeed in capturing Santa and Mrs.Claus but ol’ Santa succeeds in turning the tables on the dastardly villains and the citizens of the North Pole unite with the free booting invaders to quickly bring good cheer and lots of presents to all the waiting children down below. And all the Yo-Ho-Ho songs are lusty and loud and everyone has a good time singing atthis pirate’s jolly Christmas. I’ve got two young grandsons who live in the hills of Studio City and they would love to see these pirates in action. I exspect I’ll be going back real soon to walk the plank with my young pirates, age 11 and 13. This is just what the doctor ordered for twichy young fellows - lots of action and singing and jumping on and off pirate ships and whipping up on backward wannabe pirates who have to learn their ABCs if they want to master the art of stoming Santa’s North Pole. Future shows include the innovative and erotic DRACULA -a world premier musical INSANITY and a audaciuous world premier play BATHROOM STALL INCANTATION in the early summer. So far as I can tell these NoLo Arts Center pirates have done their homework. Well, they’re a vibrant and young theatre ensemble led by a talented artistic director who knows how to put on a really good show. That’s just what this L.A. community needs: its own recognized theatre district. The NoLo Arts Center is at III36 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood. Reservations: 818308-8500 or 800-785-4770. California Joe is the storyteller persona of Stevenson Phillips, an actor and lingr living in Kernville. You may reach him at sscaljoe@ aol.com.
Page 7
Recipes for Dummies by Bodfish Bob rice. Bodfish Bob's California Tamale Pie . 1 lb. lean ground beef, browned ¾ c. yellow corn meal 1½ c. milk 1 Egg, beaten 1 pkg. chili seasoning mix 1 tbsp. seasoned salt 1 lb. can tomatoes, cut up 1 lb. whole kernel corn, drained 2¼ oz. sliced ripe olives, drained 1 c. Cheddar cheese, grated
Bodfish Bob's Slow Cooked Pepper Steak 1½ to 2 lb. beef round steak 2 tbsp. cooking oil ¼ c. soy sauce 1 c. onion, chopped 1 tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper ¼ tsp. ground ginger 4 Tomatoes, cut into eighths, or one (16 oz.) can tomatoes with liquid, cut up 2 lg. green peppers, cut into strips ½ c. cold water 1 tbsp. cornstarch Cooked noodles or rice
Cut beef into 3-inch x 1-inch strips; brown in oil in a skillet. Transfer to a slow cooker. Combine the next seven ingredients; pour over beef. Cover and cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or until meat is tender. Add tomatoes and green peppers; cook on low for 1 hour longer. Combine the cold water and cornstarch to make a paste; stir into liquid in slow cooker and cook on high until thickened. Serve over noodles or
Stir together cornmeal, milk and egg. Add rest of ingredients, except cheese. Pour into crock pot, cover, cook on high 3 to 4 hours. Sprinkle cheese over top, cover and cook another 5 minutes. Bob's Easy Cranberry Holiday Punch Recipe 2 cups red wine 1 cup vodka 1/4 cup spiced rum 1/2 cup ruby tangerine grapefruit juice chilled 2 cups cran~raspberry juice drink, chilled 1/2 cup seedless green or seedless red grapes, washed and sliced in half 1/2 cup fresh cranberries,washed 1 lemon, thinly sliced 1 lime 1 orange, thinly sliced 1 apple, thinly sliced 6 cups ginger ale
Combine wine, vodka, spiced rum and juices in a punch bowl. Add fruit and chill. Add chilled ginger ale just before serving. Makes approximately 10 to 12 5-ounce servings. Visit Bodfish Bob on the Web at www.bodfishbob.com
SOCIAL SECURITY continued from page 6 $1,090 in 2008. People who have Medicare coverage will want to visit Medicare's website at www.medicare.gov for changes coming in 2009. To learn more about Social Security changes coming in 2009,
visit our online fact sheet at www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice/factsheets/colafacts2009.htm. As always, you can find a wealth of information about Social Security at our website, www.socialsecurity.gov.
servicesp t business & professional
There’s a spot for you in the
Robert’s Carpet Repair & Cleaning
service spot business
Hello friends and neighbors. We are a new business in town. Prices starting at 25 cents per square foot (with a minimum $25.00 charge). First time customer special offer of $25.00 one room, second room same size free (size limit 20’x15’). Upholstery Cleaning also Available
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Robert Steele 760-378-3517 Toll Free 1-866-431-0910
& professional directory
Water Wells Pumps Sales & Service 4571 Lake Isabella Blvd. Lake Isabella
directory
Kitty’s spot Videos ads &More new!
Piute Pump
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Movies to Rent Musical Instruments Sales & Repair
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760-379-4010
Page 8
Kern River Courier
Friday, December 12, 2008
CEMETERY continued from page 1 Muzio, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. many meetings of local veterans to The weather was grey and dreary, but plan the cemetery. Muzio, according to some fans, used “This cemetery is the land of the his meteorology skills to cause the sun free and the home of the brave,” to appear, along with some rainbows. McCarthy said and he encouraged The Colors were presented by the people to visit it frequently throughout Governor’s Honor Guard and each the years. branch of the military was honored An invocation was given by during a medley of military theme Captain Greg Horn, Marine Corps songs, by having the veterans in atten- Chaplain. Then Wesley Jones, the first dance stand during their branch of director of the Bakersfield National service’s song. Cemetery addressed the crowd. He The fact that it was 67 years to the said the 1,000 in attendance in the day since the bombing of Pearl poor weather is “what Bakersfield is Harbor where 2,403 Americans died all about.” was recognized and the survivors and The first half of the first phase will widows were honored. The Pledge of be the development of 20 acres. The Allegiance was first phase is 50 of led by MMC the 500 acres. He Alfred Rodriguez, said there will be This cemetery is 3,000 internment ret., a Pearl Harbor survivor ready in early the land of the free sites and Kern Valley summer of 2009. resident from He said that his and the home of Wofford Heights goal is “a national the brave. (see main story on shrine where perthis page. petual care is not a --Rep. Kevin McCarthy The group was chore, but an first addressed by honor.” Robert Stine, The keynote CEO of the Tejon Ranch, who donated speaker was the Undersecretary for the 500 acres to the United States for Memorial Affairs, William F. Tuerk, the new National Cemetery. He credit- who recognized Chief Alfred ed former Congressman Bill Thomas Rodriguez as a “legacy for all for helping secure the Bakersfield area Californians.” site during the 2003 Veterans Tuerk manages 125 of the nation’s Cemetery Expansion Act. national cemeteries and was repreCongressman Kevin McCarthy senting James B. Peak, Secretary of addressed the crowd. He said that it Veteran’s Affairs. was not only a groundbreaking, but it The afternoon concluded with a was “saying we are a grateful nation groundbreaking, a dedication plaque that does not forget freedom is not unveiling, a rifle salute by the free.” He noted that the cemetery was California Honor Guard, and “Taps,” the result of a collaborative effort of played by Sgt. First Class James Wulf, many people including the Tejon US Army, Ret. Ranch for donating the property and
“
”
Valerie MinouxKern River Courier
The KRV Community Orchestra holds their “Christmas Memories” concert Sunday at Kernville Elementary School.
RODRIGUEZ continued from page 1 while tied to the coal docks with several other minesweepers, that the devastating surprise attack of Pearl Harbor began at 7:55 a.m. After leaving Pearl Harbor in mid1942, his new duties were to deliver aviation gas, bombs, and general supplies from Tulagi to Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. They also participated in the sea battle of Nov. 13, 1942, aiding U.S.S. Aaron Ward, and was later involved in a sea battle on Nov. 30 that same year. In mid-1943 he was transferred to San Francisco to the newly commissioned U.S.S. Wedderburn DD684, going from one of the oldest and slowest Navy ships to one of the newest and fastest. On that ship he saw action that included the invasion and recapture of Guam, the invasion and capture of Saipan and most all the major engagements of WWII’s
Pacific Theater. Rodriguez said that the invasion and capture of Okinowa was one of his toughest assignments. This was the conflict where the Kamakazi suicide plane came into prominence. Forty destroyers were damaged or sunk by using this strategy. After the surrender of Japan in August 1945, Rodriguez' ship was assigned to be one of the first ships to enter Tokyo Bay, which, as a Pearl Harbor survivor, was very satisfying for Rodriguez. Rodriguez also served in the Korean Conflict aboard the U.S.S. Hollister DD788, where he participated in shore bombardment activities with the battleship U.S.S. Missouri. He spent 15 years of his career on Navy ships, receiving many awards, and retired after 30 years of service in 1970.
The Kern River Valley Salvation Army
Needs your help! Donations are tax deductible
®
Make it a wonderful holiday season this year for everyone in the Kern River Valley Plan to donate to or volunteer for these major Salvation Army events:
Christmas bell ringing 60 volunteers needed to ring bells in front of local stores. Our major fundraiser to assist our community. All funds stay in the valley!
The
FURNITURE
6415 Lake Isabella Blvd.
760-379-2868
Store
Sunday thru Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
thefurniturestore.us
Toys for Tots Drop off unwrapped toys in boxes at participating retailers in the valley, or bring them to the Salvation Army/Community Christain Center. You may send donations to, or you may drop by
Salvation Army/Community Christian Service C enter P.O. Box 2786 6105 Lake Isabella Blvd. Lake Isabella, CA 93240
X-Rays Fillings
Denny Rushton, DDS
Cleaning
3628 Suhre Street Lake Isabella
760-379 -5100
Owner: Lisa Stephens
760-549-0077
“We Cater to Cowards”
Crowns Bridgework Minor Orthodontics /Space Maintainors Oral Surgery
Offering a complete family dental care service 40 years experience Dentures & Repair
Left to right: Angela, Hygienist Marie, Office Manager, Dr. Rushton and April, Dental Assistant RDA.
2616 Erskine Creek Road, Lake Isabella 8:30am to 5:00pm Daily, Evening Appointments Available
760-379-3671
Children’s Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Teeth Whitening Endontics Member of American Dental Association California Dental Association Kern County Dental Society OHSA Compliant
Next to Crossroads Shell Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm Closed Christmas & New Years Day
Kern River Motors Offers Extended Warranties. Special Financing, Motorcycle Products and Parts Including Oil and Filters.
Santa is coming to town and is looking to put this truck under your Christmas tree! 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Quad Cab
Auto Check Completed (One Owner) V8 5.7 Liter HEMI, Big Horn, 4WD, Fully Loaded and Ready to take home! Blue Book Suggested List: $19,255
Sale Price: $15,777
Mention this ad when purchasing this vehicle at the sale price and Santa will give you an upgrade to a 1 year/14,500 Extended Warranty! All prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any deal document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Price good through 12/19/08.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Kern River Courier
Editorial: I Can’t Help But Comment ...
Circle Park restroom issue needs to be brought to a head Michael Batelaan Kern River Courier co-publisher
Well, here we go again! Or should I say there’s nowhere to go again, around Circle Park in Kernville. This past month, thanks to a complaint received by the Kern County Parks & Recreation Department, the only public restroom in the area around Circle Park was Michael removed. The very same way, I Batelaan might add, that it had arrived in the first place – merchant complaint. The merchants in this quaint little part of Kernville have long denied access to their throne rooms with more excuses than I used to give in school for not having done my homework. Even when a portable public restroom was provided by the county, with it came only more complaints – leaving one with no place to do one’s business. Complaints that the restroom stunk, that its patrons often did not close the door behind them (or the wind opened it for them, leaving all for the world to see), and vandalism have now resulted in having the restroom removed until further study or options for another location are explored. Don’t get me wrong. The merchants of Kernville want your busi-
ness more than ever. They need you to stop, shop, eat, drink and spend some time and money. It’s just that next to no one wants to deal with the unmentionable business and the necessary paperwork that comes to pass after one has partaken of such activities. It is my own personal observation that of the 30-plus businesses located in and around Circle Park, only one openly provides a wheelchair accessible restroom for public use. Less than a handful make their best seat in the house available (for customer use only); four might allow use in an emergency; and most even with disabled access and restroom provision laws don’t provide one at all. Not to tiptoe around the subject, but more facilities are now provided for your dog in Circle Park with the new “Dogipot” than the needs of us humankind. Let’s speak up and not let the efforts of the Kern County Parks and Recreation Department and others get flushed along with the park’s new toilet. No ifs, ands or “butts” about it, the bottom line is that Circle Park merchants, the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, our Kern County Supervisor’s office and the Parks and Recreation Department need to put their collective heads together to solve the public restroom problem. It is, after all, time to doo your civic duty. The Kern River Courier welcomes your comments. Michael Batelaan is co-publisher of the Kern River Courier and can be reached at office@kernrivercourier.com
Seasons Best to All! from
K ERN V ALLEY . COM • ONLY LOCAL DAILY WEATHER • YEARLY CALENDAR OF EVENTS • CURRENT ROAD CONDITIONS • FISHING & HUNTING FORUM • COMMUNITY FORUM • MAPS & DIRECTIONS • CAMPING & HIKING GUIDES • ONLINE CONFERENCE CENTERS • RELOCATION INFORMATION
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Page 9
Spohn-Gross, White named KRV Chamber’s man, woman of year Kern River Courier
The Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced the selection of the Rev. Dr. Charles White and Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross as their Man and Woman of the Year for 2009. Both White and Spohn-Gross are being honored for their many community contributions of the past several years. The Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce will honor them at a special dinner
Offer Expires December 31, 2008
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299
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FURNITURE
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Sunday thru Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
• • • • • • • • •
celebration on Jan. 26 at Paradise Cove. The public is invited to attend and celebrate both honorees. There will be a social hour starting at 5:30 p.m., with dinner being served at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $30 per person. For reservations, contact the Chamber office at (760) 379-2536. It is suggested that reservations be made soon, as both honorees are extremely popular and worthy, according to the Chamber, and seating is limited.
6415 Lake Isabella Blvd. 760-379-2868 thefurniturestore.us
Page 10
Kern River Courier
Friday, December 12, 2008 Make sure you advertise in the
“ORIGINAL MARKETPLACE” (760) 376-2860
The Kern River Courier Marketplace ~ Since 2004 ~ Services
For Rent
Jerry’s APPLIANCE SERVICE Washers • Dryers • Refrigerators Stoves • Dishwashers 379-2199
Ray's Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior Painting Wall Covering Installed and Removed 760-417-9797
Archie Logsdon Carpentry Decks & Remodeling. "Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail." (760) 223-6624 losthills@communitymail.net
POOL/SPA REPAIR SPECIALIST 20+ Years Experience CA. License #647258 (760) 376-4384 / (909) 210-3971 __________________________ BAND FOR HIRE All Occasions Rock and Roll / Oldies / Country Big Band Swing & More! Call Chuck (661) 210-7220
*bounce houses *water slides *sno cones & cotton candy machines *party supplies & more
WE DELIVER!
760-376-4KIDS(4543)
www.kernkidspartyrentals.com
Chuck Barbee - Still & Video PHOTOGRAPHY Portraits - Family Events Equestrian - Historical Photo Scanning & Restoration Transfers to DVD & CD 760-376-8784
YOUR AD COULD HAVE BEEN WORKING HERE! CALL US...
WE GET READ ABRAHAM’S APPLIANCE R EPAIR SERVICE
WASHERS-DRYERS • REFRIGERATORS STOVES • DISHWASHERS • ICEMAKERS ETC.
379-4 4707
Pets
Homes
STOCKING STUFFERS Adorable CKC Registered Chihuahua puppies. (8 weeks and up. Teacups and Tiny Toys. Current shots. Pad trained $200-$400 379-1403
Cabin For Sale - Cabin on 1/3 acre lot at 102 Hoebeck Bodfish. Cross street of Columbus, fixer upper for $80,000. 661-428-1108 __________________________ Lake Isabella - Nice 2bd/2ba dbl wide Mobile Home w/patio & deck + 2 car carport in quiet 55+ park, $25,000 or financing available. 760-379-2092 __________________________ Beautiful Furnished Park Model on Kern River. 2+1, w/barn-style Tuff shed & charming side yard w/porch. Asking 19K OBO. 818-242-7788
For Sale
Spaces for Rent
ELECTRIC SCOOTER for house, walks, street. 4 wheel, sturdy construction, Meritz Corp. takes any hill in Kernville. Plug into any socket to change. New 8/2008. Local parts & service. Range 18 miles. $4,250 - $1,000 off w/cash. Bill Jenkins 376-4628
SPACES FOR RENT Wofford Heights Mobile/RV Park Great Location! Quiet, mature trees, walk to lake, market, medical, park & theater. Free rent on the 6th month. Call Able 760-379-5479. After 3pm & weekends, call Ralph @ 310-387-7136
Onyx Apartment for rent in quiet neighborhood. 2 bd, 1 ba. Close to park & store. $550/mo incls. water & trash.References required (661) 477-7091 __________________________ Rent to Own - Nice 2bd/2ba dbl wide Mobile Home w/patio & deck + 2 car carport in quiet 55+ park.$595/mo.Includes space rent. + deposit. 760-379-2092 _________________________ Available Dec 1st - Rent/Lease Double Wide M/H. Mt. Mesa 2/2. Central Heat & Air w/appliances. Wofford Heights 2/2. Central Heat w/appl. 3791047 (appointment) _________________________ Southlake - 2 Bedroom Duplex w/garage, laundry room, fireplace, dishwasher, $600/mo + $600 security deposit. 378-3374 _________________________ Cozy 1 bd, 1 ba. House in Weldon near Kelso Creek Road. Large fenced yard. Room for RV parking. All new interior. Water & trash paid. $650/mo + $650 deposit. Available 12/15. Call Mike @ (949) 645-4697 or (949) 246-7731
Land For Sale Residential Lot on Aspen Drive in Bodfish. $30,000 OBO, Call (661) 428-1108 __________________________ 40 Acres Flat Nevada Ranchland. 200 mi NE of Reno. Buildable horse property. Walk to river & store @ I-80. $399 down, $399/mo, $39,900 sale price. Owner financing. No qualifying. 775-453-3724 __________________________ One acre in Isabella Highlands w/old trailer & outhouse. Mostly flat w/power at prop line. Xlnt investment or for weekenders. 19K OBO. Possible OWC. 818-242-7788
Firewood For Sale "FIREWOOD" Camping•Cooking•Home Heat
THE FIREWOOD GUY
6400 Lake Isabella Blvd, #C Lake Isabella, 760-379-8087
Explore the Kern Valley ––S h o p p i n g , D i n i n g , L o d g i n g ––
5430 Lake Isabella Blvd. 379-8144 Largest pool table in town!
Lah-De-Dah-Gifts, Collectables, Antiques. “If it’s not here, we don’t have it.” Sewing Center for Sewing Needs. 41 Big Blue Rd. Kernville. Call 376-6704.
Yard/Garage Sale
Specialty Shops
COCKTAILS AND DANCING
INDOOR SALE Sat & Sun 13th & 14th 8am to 4pm Antiques, Desks, Leather Furniture,Victorian Couches and Chairs, Saddles, Enamelware, TVs, Motorsports Posters, Mirrors, Lamps, Collectibles, Lighted Glass Case. 6411 Wofford Blvd. W.H. 376-4884 __________________________ RUMMAGE SALE Tubatulabals of Kern Valley Saturday, December 13th, 8am to 5pm @ 12600 Mountain Mesa Road, Suite B __________________________ YARD SALE Sat. Dec 20th, 8am to 2pm only No Early Birds 13 Arnold Springs Dr. Pala Ranches Wofford Heights __________________________ GARAGE SALE A little of this and that! Pick up last minute gifts, collectibles and good stuff. Lots of used clothing - clean! 4221 Balboa, 8am 5pm. Saturday, Dec 13th.
Assistant Needed Weed liek uh Ed-u-makated and Xsperyenced Pruef Redor Enturn two corek airrors 4 classyfried add eddyter dat duzent no difurence beetween spade & spayed. Pour dogg wuz fixed buht thay uzed sum tipe uv shuvel 2 duett. Efu cann spel gud fone en azke 4 duh add eddyter pleeez. 55five-2too4tree.
Place your Marketplace ad in 3 easy steps: 5 lines = $5.50
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DRESS ME UP 6437 Lake Isabella Blvd. in the Post Office Shopping Center. Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 9-12. 379-8927 Children's Clothing and More
THE KERN RIVER COURIER
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SADIE'S CENT SAVER Discount Grocery Outlet open in Southlake in old Ranchhouse restaurant bldg. New products stocked daily! 8458 Entrada Blvd. 378-4240. Come See Us!
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1. Write your message on the form. Please be neat. Ads start at 5 lines for $5.50 and only $1.00 for each additional line. 2. Total first five lines and $1.00 for each additional line. Multiply the total by the number of weeks you wish your ad to run. Fill in the blanks below. Payment must be with order. 3. Enter credit card #, or make check, money order payable to: Kern River Courier P.O. Box 1145 Wofford Heights, Ca 93285-1145 6392 B Wofford Blvd. Wofford Heights, Ca 93285 Mail or deliver to above address. Ad must reach us by Tuesday 12 noon of the week it is to run.
Each line equals 27 spaces or characters. Actual length of published ad may vary depending on combination of letters, spaces and words. Please read your ad as soon as it is published. If you do find an error, notify us immediately. The Kern River Courier will take responsibility for only one incorrect insertion and will not be responsible for more than the cost of one insertion. No further liability shall apply. The Kern River Courier reserves the right to reject any ad and may edit ads as needed. Payment is required prior to run. Phone orders are accepted with credit card only.
K E R N
R I V E R
Faith
Friday, December 12, 2008
Voices of Faith
Searching for truth everywhere Clarence Semonious Pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Fellowship
Consider an unscientific observation, intended to discover personal details only about oneself. I notice things that dangle – from pockets, purses and other places. These articles could expose a desire to communicate some truth about that for which we are searching. Possibly these manifesta- Semonious tions are the modern equivalent of David’s words, “O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.” Psalm 139:1-4. Is David revealing that he is on a quest of companionship with God? At least David sought companionship with his creator. The bobbles mentioned above may be witness that many are on a quest for some unknown, intangible treasure. I have a living pet. Its a Pionus Parrot, a mostly green bird. A previous owner named him Scooter. The books say that he has the cognitive ability of a typical two-year-old child. He has bonded with me, shows emotions such as a desire to be with me and displays a pique if I ignore him. I love protecting him, giving him treats, petting him and
talking to him. I give. He takes. Yet I get pleasure caring for this creature who makes a mess of his cage, the floor and my clothes. But I do not praise him for giving me life, as David does to God, saying that he is, “fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:14. Explaining that if his people behaved badly, doing things God forbids, Moses warned that God would cause them to be scattered. But then he adds the promises, “…from there you will seek the Lord your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you are in tribulation, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, you will return to the Lord your God and obey his voice.” Deuteronomy 4:29-30. I know that God is much better at protecting and caring for me than I am my parrot. My quest is to bless the God who caused David to write, “…let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them ever sing for joy, and spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may exult in you.” Psalm 5:11. Dec. 25 is the annual recognition of the companionship that so many seek – the miracle of man’s creator becoming a man himself to reestablish a fellowship that was broken so long ago. The Kern River Courier encourages messages from all churches. E-mail them to office@kernrivercourier.com
Page 11
Worldwide candle ceremony Sunday Mike Devich Kern River Courier
It takes only you and one candle to join hearts with the world. Each year on the second Sunday in December all children who have passed away are remembered with a candle-lighting ceremony in homes around the world – so that that their light may always shine. For one hour, this Sunday, Dec. 14, starting at 7 p.m. local time, you may join in the ceremony by simply lighting a candle. The same thing happens at 7 p.m. local time all around the globe. The Worldwide Candle Lighting started in the United States in 1997 as a small Internet observance but has since swelled in numbers as word has spread. For more information, see The Compassionate Friends Web site at www.compassionatefriends.org or call Marge Eckman at (760) 378-1023.
Weldon Baptist Church Pastor/Teacher: Rick Rayls
• Contemporary Music • Solid Bible Teaching • Everyone Welcome • Nursery Available
Worship Leader: Darrow Elconin Weldon Weldon Baptist Church
Fa yR an ch Rd
Sundays: 9am- Praise Team Practice 10am- Adult & Children’s Services 6pm- Evening Bible Study
178 ay hw Hig
d kR ree oC ls Ke
178
■
Po we rs Ln
Powers Tract
Kelso Valley Rd
20647 Hwy. 178 Weldon 760-378-4964 or 760-951-7700
Kernville First Baptist Church of Kernville 46 Valley View Drive, Kernville Sunday Services — 11 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. 376-6403 Prince of Peace Lutheran Fellowship Center 44 Big Blue Road, Kernville Sunday School 9 a.m. Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. 417-2014 Kernville Foursquare Church Kernville Chamber of Commerce 11447 Kernville Road Sunday Services 9:30 a.m. 223-6704 Kernville United Methodist Church 251 Big Blue Rd., Kernville Sunday Services 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. 376-2751 St. Peter’s Anglican Church 11900 Sierra Way, Kernville Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. 376-6362 Lake Isabella First Baptist Church of Lake Isabella 3701 Suhre, Lake Isabella Sunday Services 8:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:45 a.m. 379-5615 Fountain of Christ Church 5101 #A Lake Isabella Blvd, Lake Isabella Sunday Service: 9:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Wed. 6 p.m. 417-0793 Living by Faith Evangelist Outreach 6437 Isabella Blvd. (near Post Office) Sunday Services 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. 379-8036 Landmark Missionary Baptist Church 2741 Mountain View Rd, Lake Isabella Sunday Services 9:45 a.m. & 5:00 p.m. 379-5640 Mt. View Southern Baptist Church 2959 Erskine Creek Rd, Lake Isabella Sunday Services 8:30, 11:15 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. 379-4296 Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (LCMS) 377 Highway 155, Lake Isabella Sunday Services 12:00 p.m. 379-2343 Kern Valley Bible Church 3920 Golden Spur, Lake Isabella Sunday Services 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. 379-5482 Church of the Nazarene 2931 Erskine Creek Rd., Lake Isabella Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. 379-2062 Highland Chapel United Methodist 5301 Lake Isabella Bl., Lake Isabella Sunday School & Worship 9:30 a.m. 379-2120 Lake Isabella Church of Christ 3711 Golden Spur, Lake Isabella Sunday worship 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Bible study Sun. 10 a.m., Thurs. 6 p.m. Kern River Valley Seventh Day Adventist 3801 Golden Spur, Lake Isabella Saturday Service 9:30 a.m. 379-3206 Kern Valley Pentecostal LightHouse Church 3730 Wagon Wheel Dr., Lake Isabella Sunday School 9:45 Services 10:45 a.m. Eve. 5 p.m. Wed. Service 6 p.m. 379-5819
Mt. Mesa Church of Christ Mt. Mesa 6400 Dogwood Av., Mt. Mesa Sunday Services 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. 379-4792 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 6400 Park Av., Mt. Mesa Sunday Services 10:00 a.m. 379-2904 Grace Chapel 12312 Mt. Mesa Rd., Mt. Mesa Sunday Services 9:45 a.m. 379-4093 Christian Assembly 12424 Mountain Mesa Rd., Mt. Mesa Sunday Services 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. 379-6377 Victory Tabernacle (United Pentecostal Church) 4324 Birch, Mt. Mesa Sunday Services 4 p.m. 379-6360
by Wilson Casey 1. According to Luke, the reason Jesus was born in Bethlehem was that his “father” had to attend what? Feast, Fast, Sacrifice, Census 2.Who was Herod’s information source as to where the Christ Child was to be born? Joseph, Reuben, Micah, Matthew 3. From Luke 2:13, what term describes an army of angels praising God? Heavenly host, Covenant, Spirit multitude, Manoah 4.What group received the angels’announcement of the birth of Jesus? Carpenters, Shepherds, Tentmakers, Masons ANSWERS: ANSWERS: 1) Census; 2) Micah; 3) Heavenly host; 4) Shepherds
Churches of the Valley
BIBLE TRIVIA
(c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
Southlake/Weldon Kern Christian Church “The River” 14900 Hwy 178, Southlake Sunday Services 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. 378-3780 Weldon Baptist Church 20674 Highway 178 Sunday Services 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. 378-4964 Weldon United Methodist Church 20021 Hwy. 178, Weldon Sunday Services 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. 378-2321 Wofford Heights Family Life Center Foursquare Church Panorama, Wofford Heights Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. 376-6719 New Life Assembly of God 25 Arden Av., Wofford Heights Sunday Services 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. 376-6402 St. Jude Catholic Church 86 Nellie Dent Dr., Wofford Heights Sunday Mass 7:00 a.m. & 9:00 a.m 376-2416 Calvary Chapel 125 Sycamore Drive, Wofford Heights Sunday Services 9 & 11 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. 376-8789 Christ Fellowship 80 Evans Road, Wofford Heights Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.
20 W.
Miscellaneous SGI - USA Buddhist Discussion Meetings - call 379-6162 for dates and times. Based on the Lotus Sutra. Salvation Army Mon. 9 am — 1 pm. Service and applications at 6105 Lake Isabella Blvd., Lake Isabella. TSA feeds the hungry lunch Monday through Friday. Assistance is offered to persons or families who are having difficulties paying utility bills, in need of food, clothing, spiritual and other counseling. 760379-5100.
Super Crossword answers
Page 12
Friday, December 12, 2008
Courier chuckle of the week:
“Thus the metric system did not really catch on in the States, unless you count the increasing popularity of the nine-millimeter bullet.� Dave Barry
See Page 11 for answers to puzzles
Salome’s Stars ARIES (Mar. 21 to Apr.19) The arts are a strong part of the Arian aspect, with music becoming more dominant. An important decision looms as a longtime relationship takes an unexpected turn. TAURUS (Apr. 20 to May 20) Surrounding yourself with beautiful things helps restore the Taurean soul. Enjoy an art exhibit, for example. Or redecorate your personal space with something truly splendid. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Some colleagues might try to talk you out of what they insist is a risk, but which you consider an opportunity. As usual, follow your own good sense when making your decision. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A workplace change you might have worried about soon proves to be highly favorable for the clever Crab who is ready to take advantage of new opportunities opening up. LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22) Congratulations. Your Leonine pride is polished to a dazzling new brilliance thanks to your success in winning support for your new project from even the most doubtful of detractors. VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22) An unsettling rumor about a colleague’s apparently regrettable behavior is soon proved groundless, allowing you to enjoy the upcoming end-of-year festivities in a happy mood.
Kern River Courier
LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22) Your success helping create a harmonious environment out of a chaotic situation earns you the admiration of someone who could become an important new presence in your life. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)Your sense of loyalty could find you leading a passionate defense of a loved one you feel is being unfairly treated.The week’s end brings long-awaited family news. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21) Your keen instincts are once more on high alert as you find yourself being pressured to make a quick decision about a certain matter. More facts come to light by week’s end. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19) An unexpected workplace development could disrupt some family plans. A full explanation, however, averts domestic discord. A financial matter continues to need attention. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18) Spend time away from distractions to reassess some recent moves that might not have worked out as you had hoped. What you learn could be invaluable for future decision-making. PISCES (Feb. 19 to Mar. 20) A recent act of kindness is a reminder of how important your friends are to you.You might want to show your appreciation by hosting a special pre-New Year’s party just for them. (c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
Page 13
Trivia Test By Fifi Rodriguez 1. MATH: What mathematical term describes the boundary of a closed plane figure? 2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: When did Mother Teresa win the Nobel peace prize? 3. HISTORY: What was the native city of explorer Marco Polo? 4. GAMES: How long is a standard bowling lane? 5. ENTERTAINMENT: Which singer was the first to record a “Greatest Hits” album? Answers:
1. Perimeter 2. 1979 3. Venice, Italy 4. 60 feet 5. Johnny Mathis
Friday, December 12, 2008
c) 2008 King Features Synd., Inc.
Page 14
Kern River Courier
Talking About Real Estate
Creative Connection
It’s your decision
Class considerations for ’09
Matt Freeman Kern River Courier Columnist
Buying a new car is, for most people, a major purchase. First, you compare features, design, mileage and dependability. You identify Matt Freeman sevreal suitable makes and models, and then compare price. With all features and benefits being equal, would you choose the most expensive, or look to the one offering the best value? You wouldn’t pay more than you have to, and homebuyers are no different. When selling your home, the asking price determines your success. Although you and only
you make the pricing decision, it is wise to approach your real estate agent for advice. The agent knows what buyers have been willing to pay for other homes similar to yours. Your price must be competitive against those, and no higher. Buyers often pay full price when they recognize a good value, yet rarely consider an over-priced home. Really, it is the buyers who set the sale price. No matter what you ask, until a buyer is willing to pay your price, no sale will take place. How do you determine the right price? Look closely at each sale that your agent has researched, comparing time on the market, features, financing offered and the final sales price. Your home’s ideal price can be found in the maze of statistics provided by your real estate agent. Price your home to sell, and buyers will compete for it.
WE L IST A ND S ELL THROUGHOUT O UR V ALLEY!
6117 Lake Isabella Blvd. 760-379-5915 www.freemanslakesiderealty.com
Friday, December 12, 2008
MLS# 2210124 $219,750 3+2 with 1,950 s.f+/-, .43 acres. Wow, one of a kind!
Donna Fitch Kern River Courier columnist
Even though this year is quickly winding down, registration for the Spring 2009 semester at the local community colleges has begun and classes will start Donna Fitch the week of Jan. 19 Most likely, you are busy preparing for the coming holidays so I thought I’d introduce you to creative possibilities being made available to you at the beginning of the new year. Our own local campus of Cerro Coso Community College will offer History of Western Art; Drawing: beginning, advanced and special topics; Sculpture and Piano, beginning through level 4. Also available is a class on Improving your Writing Skills. You can reach the KRV campus at 760-378-1090 or for on-line information www.cc.cc.ca.us The Ridgecrest Campus of Cerro Coso Community College is offering: Gallery Technology: theories and functions of an art gallery; Beginning Black & White Photography; Painting: beginning and special topics; Beginning Drawing; History of Western Art; Sculpture; Art Practicum (allows lab time to work on projects for additional units). Music classes
offered are: Guitar, Music Appreciation; Choir; Piano and Band. On-Line Classes include: Introduction to Art; Digial Imaging and Photo Retouching and Web Design. The Ridgecrest Campus can be reached at 760- 384-6100 or on-line at www.cc.cc.ca.us Bakersfield College offers a wide variety of classes: Art Appreciation (five different classes); Two-dimensional Design; Ceramics (all levels); Figure Drawing; Survey of Western Art (18th-20th Century); Survey of World Art; Art of Latin America; Sculpture; Basic Drawing; Basic and Advanced Painting in Acrylic. Digital arts classes include: Intro to Digital Photography, Advanced Phtography; Intro to Digital Arts; Digital Illustration and Digital Imaging. Bakersfield Musical offerings include: Conert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Singers, History of Music, Choir, Guitar, Basic Elements of Music, Music Appreciation, Piano and History of American Pop Music. Bakersfield College can be reached at (661) 395-4011 or online at www.bc.cc.ca.us. Registration can be completed on-line. Monday through Saturday buses from the Kern River Valley go directly to Bakersfield College until 5:15 p.m. in the evening. Call ahead to (760) 379-1708 to schedule a pick- up from the Bakersfield campus back to our area. Sign up before the classes fill.
MLS# 2210106 $249,500 2+1.25 with 1,751 s.f+/-, 2.12 acres. Incredible views!
Forest Service announces seasonal road closures Kern River Courier
MLS# 2208959 $245,000 3+1.75 with 1,612 s.f.+/-, .61 acres. Beautiful deck on this one!
MLS# 2210031 $89,000 2+2 with 1,440 s.f.+/-, 1980 MH, fully fenced with permanent foundation!
MLS# 2209596 $165,000 2+2 with 1,200 s.f+/-, .28 acres. Panoramic lake view!
MLS# 2210098 $18,000 6,073 s.f.+/- lot. Great corner lot! Level & utilities!
Gerald A. Brown Manager / Director FD1731
NEPTUNE SOCIETY
CENTRAL CALIFORNIA CREMATION SERVICE FUNERAL DIRECTORS LICENSE #1406
201 H STREET BAKERSFIELD, CA 93304
661-325-3963
Fax 661-325-0240
800-894-8882
Every winter the Kern River Ranger District closes the gates on certain forest roads for user safety and to prevent resource damage. The combination of precipitation in the form of rain and snow and freezing temperatures on paved and dirt roads makes these roads dangerous to drive. In addition, costly repairs are often needed if traffic is not controlled on these roads. People who need access to their private property located behind locked Forest Service gates can contact either the Forest Service Office located in Lake Isabella at 760-3795646 or Kernville at 760-376-3781. These roads will remain closed until the District Ranger determines they are safe to drive on and driving
Isabella NailsSpa
on them will not cause resource damage. As a reminder, District Ranger Rick Larson wants to remind everyone who travels through the National Forest during the winter months to be prepared for any emergency. It is a good idea to make sure your vehicle is properly maintained, you have a full gas tank and you have a communication device. Always carry tire chains, shovel warm clothes, blanket, flashlight and food and water. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are expected to be home. “The National Forest is especially beautiful during the winter,” Larson said. “Please respect our precious resources and have a safe and enjoyable visit.”
ask us about
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Open 6 Days Mon.- Fri.9am-6pm Sat. 9am-4pm
Walk-ins Welcome Gift Certificates Available
760-376-2860
Friday, December 12, 2008
Kern River Courier
Legal Notices
Living Green
Green up your holiday cards Richard Rowe Special to the Courier
Americans sent nearly 2 billion Christmas cards in 2007. I love Christmas cards, both as a sender and a receiver. This year, due to my going greener and my withering budget, I'm rethinking Rowe Christmas cards. I could just cut them out entirely, or prune my list. But, sad to say, for most on my list, my annual letter is the only way I keep in touch. So, I'm looking for a greener alternative (the cheaper the better). I read about an organized program in the UK, recycling Christmas cards and planting trees with the net income. But the bottom has dropped of the paper recycling market, so that won't do much this coming year. I used to buy pretty cards, like those from the National Audubon Society www.holidaycardcenter.org, Sierra Club, Metropolitan Museum or the Museum of Modern Art. I confess to having dozens of boxes of MoMA Christmas cards somewhere in storage. I bought those years ago on a trip to NYC when MoMA
closed for remodeling. The cards showing Santa diving into a swimming pool better fit where I used to live (Palm Springs) than Wofford Heights. I could go the route of online ecards. I'm already getting some wonderful ones from friends via www.jacquielawson.com. The Nature Conservancy has great holiday e-cards www.nature.org/ecards/. There are fun ones at www.PickleParty.com or www.rattlebox.com. Inspired by a foodie e-newsletter www.outlawcook.com, I've decided to do up a PDF file annual letter: a short two-page one that I'd print out on my color printer for those who aren't into e-mail; but a longer one with more pictures and clickable links for those who make the most of e-mail (pity to those with dial-up). If you'd like a copy, send me an email. And those many boxes of Christmas cards I hoarded, when I find them? I'll list them for sale on eBay next year. Richard Rowe is a retired city planner, living in Wofford Heights. He is website administrator of KRVR.org for Kern River Valley Revitalization. He is in charge of a major new event planned for March 27-30, 2009 – "Living Green in the KRV." He can be reached at eworinkrv@mchsi.com.
a.m. until 3 p.m. All volunteers and contributions will be greatly appreciated. To volunteer or contribute, call Angela at 379-2563. Whiskey Flat Days organizing meetings Dec. 29 The Kernville Chamber of Commerce’s next Whiskey Flat Days planning meeting will be Dec. 29. It is a potluck. For more information, call the Chamber office at 376-2629. Whiskey Flat Days Kick-off Dinner Jan. 9 The Kernville Chamber’s 2009 Whiskey Flat Days kick-off dinner will be held at the Elk’s Lodge on Friday, January 9. Social hour is at 5 p.m., dinnerat 6 p.m followed by the event at 7 p.m. Cost for dinner is $20 and includes tax and tip. The menu consists of salad, fried chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, dinner roll and dessert. Come meet all the mayor candidates. Seating is limited. Call the Kernville Chamber at 376-2629 for reservations.
A digest of arrest reports from various public safety agencies in the Kern River Valley area
Arrest reports were not available from the Sheriff’s Department by press time this week. The reports will be printed in the Kern River Courier when they are received.
DEBRA JOY RUNDELL, MS, LMFT Therapist & Life Coach License MFC39299
“It’s your life. You are responsible for the results”
IMPROVE • Self Esteem • Self Confidence • Stress Management • Relationship Issues
Live the life you want and deserve! Call for your FREE consultation
(760) 417-0309 - 5408 Lake Isabella Blvd.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: NATURAL HEALTH THERAPEUTIC (2008-B7871) Street address of principal place of business: 121A Piute Drive, Kernville, CA 93238. REGISTRANT: Catherine Crawford, 121A Piute Drive, Kernville, CA 93238: A, Individual. The date the business commenced: 07/01/1995. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (Bus & Prof 14400 et seq. This Fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk's Office. (11/26/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. NATURAL HEALTH THERAPEUTIC CENTER. This statement filed on 11/26/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, AuditorController-County Clerk By M. Rodriguez (34993)Published by the Kern River Courier December 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2008. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: KBIZZY BEE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (2008-B7937), DBA #2: TRAILS END REAL ESTATE (2008-B7938), Street address of principal place of business: 5336 Lake Isabella Boulevard, Lake Isabella, CA 93240. REGISTRANT: Anna Mc Alister, 50 Stagecoach Drive, Caliente, CA 93518:
A, Individual. The date the business commenced: 00/00/0000. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (Bus & Prof 14400 et seq. This Fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk's Office. (12/03/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. BIZZY BEE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, TRAILS END REAL ESTATE. This statement filed on 12/03/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, AuditorController-County Clerk By G. Durward. (34993)-Published by the Kern River Courier December 12, 19, 26, 2008 and January 2, 2009. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: KRV NOVELTY (2008-B7529), DBA #2: KERN RIVER CLOTHING COMPANY (2008-B7530), Street address of principal place of business: 11101 Kernville Road, Kernville, CA 93238. REGISTRANTS: Kern River Corporation: F, Corporation. The date the business commenced: 00/00/0000. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (Bus & Prof 14400 et seq. This Fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed
in the County Clerk's Office. (11/11/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. KRV NOVELTY, KERN RIVER CLOTHING COMPANY. This statement filed on 11/11/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, AuditorController-County Clerk By G. Meza. (34993)-Published by the Kern River Courier December 12, 19, 26 2008 and Jan. 2, 2009. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: DOUG SHAW HORSESHOEING (2008B7734) Street address of principal place of business: 15138 Kelso Avenue, Weldon, CA 93283. REGISTRANT: Cynthia Shaw, 15138 Kelso Avenue, Weldon, CA 93283: A, Individual. The date the business commenced: 11/29/99. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (Bus & Prof 14400 et seq. This Fictitious Business Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the County Clerk's Office. (11/19/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. DOUG SHAW HORSESHOEING. This statement filed on 11/19/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, Auditor-ControllerCounty Clerk By G. Meza (34993)-Published by the Kern River Courier December 12, 19, 26, 2008 and January 2, 2009.
PROJECTS continued from page 1
CALENDAR continued from page 3
Arrest reports
Page 15
L
AMBERT’S
PS
LUMBING ERVICE
road north to the former car dealership, then continue north from the Highway 155 intersection to Turner Avenue with the completion of the curb, sidewalk and bike lane. Funding for this project is from county General Fund money through Supervisor McQuiston, with a cost of approximately $50,000. Scheduled completion is by the end of the month. A second portion from Elizabeth Norris Road to Erskine Creek Road is to place missing curbs, gutters, and sidewalks and to restripe the roadway for a two-way center leftturn lane. With the design phases of this project complete, the project is currently out to bid with funding of $300,000 total coming from $80,000 local, and $220,000 Transportation Enhancement Act (TEA) Federal Grant monies. Construction is scheduled to start in February 2009 and completed by April/May 2009. Third is the section of road from Kilbreth Road to Elizabeth Norris Road, with continuous 6-ft. paved shoulders on both sides of the
OB LAMBERT AMBERT BOB
Lic. #508909
3104 Raccoon Rd. Lake Isabella, CA 93240 760-379-3332 Cell: 760-223-1682
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highway and a separated pedestrian asphalt path. Design is presently underway for this project and is working its way through NEPA environmental clearance. Funding of $300,000 total is to come from $55,000 local, and $245,000 in TEA federal grant money. Completion is scheduled for the fall of 2009. The fourth portion of road and pathway improvement is to be from Highway 155 at McDonald’s north to the County Complex at Lakeland Street and Lakeland Estates on the east side of the road. This improvement will come by way of curbs, gutters and sidewalks along the east side of Lake Isabella Blvd. and the proposed construction of a pedestrian bridge north across the Borel Canal. Design for this last project is just underway, pursuing agreement with SCE to cross the Borel Canal with the pedestrian bridge. Funding for this project is coming from a Transportation Development Act (TDA) state grant of $160,000.
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Page 16
Kern River Courier
Friday, December 12, 2008
Our Valley, Our Earth
Difference between highest and lowest points on earth is astronomical 1951 information, thus Mount Everest may be higher and the Trenches much deeper after 57 years of continental drift). Also important to note is the presence of the Continental Shelf that surrounds all the continents and the Continental Slopes that dive deeply into the oceanic abyss from those slopes. These features are indicative of the tectonics of Continental Drift. I will discuss these concepts, in detail, in a couple of weeks.
Ron Bolyard Kern River Courier Columnist
Another question that is asked is: What is the footage or the mileage of the lowest place on earth to the highest? The diagram below will explain very nicely the answer to that Bolyard question. The highest point on our planet is Mount Everest at 29,141 feet above sea level. The deepest or lowest point is the Marianas Trench at minus 35,840 feet. The total is 64,981 feet or 12.3 miles. (Note: This data is
Ron Bolyard is a retired geologist and has developed an “acute interest” in the geology of the southern Sierra Nevada since he moved here in 1999.
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