Kern River Courier January 2, 2009 by Kern River Courier

Spotlighting the best of the Kern River Valley

FREE Friday, January 2, 2009

A Community Partner and Award-Winning Newspaper

Michael Batelaan/Kern River Courier

The Kern River Canyon glows in the winter stillness when the sun is in exactly the right position.

Bird Count comes to Kern River Valley this weekend Mike Devich Kern River Courier

Bird watchers will be out in force in the Kern River Valley area Saturday, Jan. 3 and Sunday, Jan. 4, to take part in Audubon’s annual bird checkup – the Christmas Bird Counts. The counts have been in progress since mid-December. There are 11 CBCs in the county each year (overlapping a few neighboring counties), according to Alison Sheehey of the Kern River Preserve in Weldon. “Birding is a sport of skill and endurance, especially in winter. It is fun to be a part of this annual tradition, and to contribute to science while doing so is an added bonus,” said Sheehey in an e-mail to the Courier. Sheehey said the results of the bird counts that have already taken place were “amazing,” with several rare species sighted. There are four more CBCs yet to be conducted in the county, and two of them will be held here. The South Fork Valley count will be headed up by Compiler Denise LaBerteaux. Contact her at eremico@aol.com if you would like to participate.

And the leader of the Kern River Valley count will be Sheehey herself. Contact her at natureali@gmail.com For more information about the Christmas Bird Counts, visit www.natureali.org/cbcs.htm or http://ca.audubon.org/cbcs.php

Three vying for office of mayor

Fri.: Sunny. High 57.

Mike Devich Kern River Courier

Sat.: Mostly sunny, high 50.

With skullduggery and cunning, the Kern River Courier has uncovered the names of the no-good varmints hiding in the shadows while they prepare to steal the coveted title of Mayor of Whiskey Flat. All kidding aside, the candidates will raise money for good causes here in the Kern River Valley as part of Whiskey Flat Days, when Kernville returns to its original Gold Rush name of Whiskey Flat. It’s an Old West festival than draws as many as 50,000 visitors each February. As part of the fun, the candidate who sells the most “bribes” gets sworn in as honorary mayor. This year, three candidates have tossed their wellworn Stetsons into the ring. (We don’t have pictures yet – these guys will probably break the camera anyway.) In alphabetical order: • “Bronco Bob” (Bob Van Helden), raising money for Kernville School PTC and the Wallace Middle School Boosters; • “Carter Cash” (Carter Pope), raising money for the Kern Valley Youth Football League; • “Gentleman Jim Dandy” (James Crawford), raising money for the Kern River Valley Youth Center. Be sure to stock up on dollar bills – these three will be everywhere during Whiskey Flat season (prior to the Feb. 13-16 event). They will be selling their bribe tickets, and you don’t want to be the lone cheapskate. The causes are great, the fun is unparalleled, and your dollar bills will help fund Whiskey Flat Days next year. Whiskey Flat Days is put on by the Kernville Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call them at (760) 376-2629, or visit their Web site at www.kernvillechamber.org

DFG loads lake with trout In a holiday tradition beloved by anglers of all ages, the California Department of Fish and Game has been planting rainbow trout in reservoirs and lakes during the holiday season. "We are pleased to provide anglers with exceptional opportunities to catch rainbow trout at lakes and reservoirs near their homes," said DFG Central Region Hatchery Supervisor Greg Kollenborn. In DFG's Central Region, DFG will stock 10,000 pounds of one-pound size rainbow trout in Isabella Lake. – DFG

Rare birds seen

See BIRD, Page 16

Valley weekend weather forecast

Fri. night: Partly cloudy. Low 38.

Sat. night: Partly cloudy, low 34. Sun.: Slight chance of rain, high 48. Sun. night: Partly cloudy, low 36. National Weather Service

Bob Mead can be found fishing most days on the lakeshore.

‘Wanted’ becomes most-rented DVD for home viewing.

Parks and Recreation headquarters moves due to fire.

Kern River Water Data: Wed. 6 a.m.

Alison Sheehey Special to the Courier

We are now almost through Audubon's annual Christmas Bird Count season. Kern County birdwatchers have slogged through mud, rain and snow to check on the status and distribution of winter bird populations throughout Kern County. Of the CBCs held in the county already completed, some amazing results have been recorded. The Bakersfield CBC was held on the first day of the count period, Dec. 14, where an overwintering Summer Tanager was found. This bird

Vol. 5 No. 48

Storage, Isabella Reservoir 115, 817 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 100 cfs (5-hr avg.) Outflow, Lower Kern 101 cfs Borel Canal flow 69 cfs Murdoc Douglas/Kern River Courier

Jo Garcia, Garson Worthen and Michael Pettit show off some of the presents they got for Christmas.

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.

Page 2

Kern River Courier

Friday, January 2, 2009

Kern River Valley – the place for fun

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 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.

KRV Publishing

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 Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and by appointment.

E-mail address: office@kernrivercourier.com Website: www.kernrivercourier.com

Make your plans now to take part in one of the biggest fishing derbies around, and that’s the Isabella Lake Fishing Derby. This year the event will be held on the weekend of April 4, 5 and 6. There will be over $150,000 in prizes! The last the Courier heard, there would be seven tagged $10,000 trout waiting to be caught, including some sponsored by local and national businesses. This is a huge change from the three offered last year and the one offered for many years before that (this year will be

Regular meetings and activities Fridays • 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.- TOPS weight loss group, Mt.View Baptist Church, 2959 Erskine Creek Rd., Lake Isabella. 378-3935. •10-11 a.m.- Grief Support Group, Hoffman Hospice, 6048 Lake Isabella Blvd. 1st and 3rd Fridays. (661) 410-1010. • 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, 80 Evans Rd, Wofford Hts. For families of alcoholics. 376-2410 or 3762066.

Saturdays • 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 • 9 a.m. to noon - VFW Breakfast, open to the public. 2811 Nugget, Lake Isabella. 379-3877.

Mondays • 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 379-5831. • 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. 3764461. • 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 p.m.Al-Anon, KRV Hosp Cafe. Help for families & friends of alcoholics. 376-2410 or 3762066.

Tuesdays • KRV Garden Group, 2nd Tues. 379-6162. • 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 3795831. • 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. 3762189. • 7 p.m. - KRV Historical Society meets, Senior Center, Lake Isabella, 4th Tues.

the 20th annual derby.) But a check of the official Isabella Lake Fishing Derby Web site, http://derby.kernrivervalley.com, reveals that there will be TEN $10,000 trout this year, AND to commemorate their 20th anniversary, there will be one trout worth $20,000! The way the derby works is this: it is run by the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce; there are more than 1,000 tagged trout (raised with tender loving care by members of the local Kern River Valley Fish & Habitat Club) that are planted in the lake and worth money); in order to win any of the prizes, those who want to take part must register beforehand (there is a cost-- contact the chamber for an application); and there are derby rules and regulations (printed on the application). There are also prizes galore available besides the cash awards for the tagged trout. The Isabella Lake Fishing Derby is a fun and healthy outdoor activity for the whole family! Enjoy the beautiful Kern River Valley scenery in the springtime! Sponsors include Mt. Mesa Market, Charlie’s Market, Isabella Supermarket, California Land Management, Yum baits, Budweiser, French Gulch Marina, North Fork Marina, AltaOne Federal Credit Union, General Plumbing and Kern Valley Youth Center. Plan your derby fun today by calling the chamber at (760) 379-5236 or writing to P.O. Box 567, Lake Isabella CA 93240.

Wednesdays • 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., M - F, Senior Nutrition, Senior Center, 6407 Lake Isabella Blvd., 379-5831. • 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. 3762410 or 376-2066. • 7 p.m. - Elks meet, Wofford Heights Blvd.

Thursdays • 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. • 6 p.m. - Wofford Height Community Assoc. meets at Family Life Center, Wofford Heights. 2nd Thurs. 223-1058. • 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.

Courier Calendar Dam Dancers to hold square dance Jan. 3 The Dam Dancers will be hosting their First Saturday dance on Jan. 3 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Senior Center in Lake Isabella. Visitors are welcome. For information call Darlene at (760) 8870977. Annual Christmas Bird Counts Jan. 3, 4 The Christmas Bird Counts this year will be Jan. 3 for the South Fork count and Jan. 4 for the Kern River Valley count. For information on volunteering for this annual event, contact Bob Barnes at (760) 382-1260 or call (760) 378-4278 or (760) 378-2029. Library to feature new Story Time Jan. 8 Kern River Valley Library is starting 2009 off with a new Story Time theme: Fractured Fairy Tales! On Thursday, Jan. 8 at 3:45 p.m. you can hear some of your favorite fairy tales told with a funny twist; then stay and make a fuzzy felt knotted scarf. This program will be fun for older kids too! Story times will continue through the year on the second Thursdays of each month at 3:45 with a different theme each time. Contact Adriane at KRV Library, 7054 Lake Isabella Blvd, 549-2083. Whiskey Flat Days Kick-off Dinner Jan. 9 The Kernville Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 Whiskey Flat Days kick-off dinner will be held at the Elks Lodge on Friday, Jan. 9. Social hour is at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m, followed by the event at 7 p.m. Cost for dinner is $20 (yes, you will be served!) and includes tax and tip. The menu consists of fried chicken, salad, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, dinner roll and dessert. Come meet all the candidates (all three) for Honorary Mayor of Whiskey Flat. Seating is limited. Call the Kernville Chamber at (760) 376-2629 for reservations.

See CALENDAR, Page 3

Friday, January 2, 2009

Kern River Courier

Page 3

Whiskey Flat Days parade applications now available Mike Devich Kern River Courier

Join into the festivities for Whiskey Flat Days and be in the Grand Parade. It’s free if you send your entry in before Jan. 30; $25 for late entries. You must fill out an application either way. Applications are now available for the parade from the Kernville Chamber of Commerce office at the corner of Kernville Road and Sierra Way. The theme for Whiskey Flat Days 2009 (to take place President’s Day weekend Feb. 13-16) is “Everything Old is News Again” -- with a logo

drawn by Jeanette Rogers of an oldtime newspaper vendor with the latest edition for sale. If you become a sponsor of the parade, the Chamber will send a “shout out” to the Courier that we will print in the valley’s free local paper. Being a sponsor helps with the expenses of the parade: the awards, trophies, insurance etc. For $25 you can become a “Gold Dust” sponsor; for $50 a “Gold Nugget” sponsor; and for $100, a “Mother Lode” sponsor. Mail your checks and completed parade forms to the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 397, Kernville CA 93238.

Things I Have Noticed...

Beware of the ‘doctor people’ Mike Devich/Kern River Courier

The Compassion Caravan stopped by the Wofford Heights Postal Center during its trip around the lake on Dec. 20. Quite a few people stopped by and donated food or money.

CALENDAR continued from page 2 Next organizing meeting for ‘Living Green’ Jan. 10 The schedule of Organizing Committee meetings for the “Living Green in the KRV” event coming in March is as follows. All meetings are from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Kernville Community Room. Jan.: 10, 24. Feb.: 7, 21. March: 7,1 4, 21. ECHO Booster Club fundraiser Jan. 13 at Little Caesar’s The ECHO Academy at Kern Valley High School (preparing students for careers in health care) will be benefited by a fundraiser to be put on by the ECHO Booster Club at Little Caesar’s Pizza in Lake Isabella on Tuesday, Jan. 13 from 4 to 9 p.m. For more information, call Kern Valley High School at 379-2611. Benefit ‘Casablanca’ screening at Reel Cinema Jan. 17 The Wofford Heights Community Association will be benefited by a screening of the classic movie “Casablanca,” in original black and while, on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 8 p.m. $10 donation. All ticket and raffle sales go towards a new Wofford Heights welcome sign. Tickets can be purchased at the Rich Pelletreau Art Gallery at 6700 Wofford Blvd., or call 223-1058. Genealogical workshop to be held Jan. 17 Kawaiisu Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, is offering a genealogical workshop on Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Kern County Library in Lake Isabella, beginning at 10 a.m. If you are interested in learning to research your family line or in proving your ancestor's Revolutionary War service, this is where you want to be. For further information, please call Chapter Registrar Linda Clark at 376-2559. KRV Chamber’s Man and Woman of Year awards dinner Jan. 26 The Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce will honor the Rev. Dr. Charles White and Dr. Holly Spohn-Gross as their Man and Woman of the Year for 2009 at Paradise Cove on Monday, Jan. 26. 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 KRV Chamber office at (760) 379-2536. Whiskey Flat Days Cowboy Auction Feb. 12 A part of the Kernville Chamber of Commerce’s Whiskey Flat Days celebration (coming up President’s Day weekend, Feb. 13-16) is the Cowboy Auction on Feb. 12 at the Elks Lodge in Wofford Heights. For information about this event, call the Kernville Chamber office at (760) 376-2629. Whiskey Flat Days luncheon by KRV Woman’s Club Feb. 13 The Kern River Valley Woman’s Club will be hosting a special luncheon to celebrate the opening of Whiskey Flat Days on Feb. 13 at the Elks Lodge in Wofford Heights at 10 a.m. For more information, call Marian at (760) 376-4578. Whiskey Flat Days held on President’s Day Weekend Feb. 13-16 Whiskey Flat Days is Kernville’s annual Old West celebration, during which the picturesque mountain town returns to the years of the early 1860s when it was called Whiskey Flat. Visitors from all over flock to Kernville on President’s Day Weekend (this year Feb. 13-16) to see the Grand Parade and take part in the many activities. There are old-time contests, tours, costumes, a carnival, music, dancing, crafts, and much more, all in the bracing mountain air in Kernville. Sometimes there is rain or snow, but that just adds to the winter mountain experience. The Honorary Mayor’s contest is just one of the many highlights of the event. For more information, call the Kernville Chamber of Commerce at (760) 376-2629, or

See HAPPENINGS, Page 15

Rod Middleworth Kern River Courier Columnist

During the years of my reasonably long life, I've had many occasions to go to a doctor. In most visits, along with the instructions of what to do and take, I am given the instruction to drink lots of liquid. When I ask, “What is ‘lots of liquid?’"? the answer is usually "At least Middleworth eight 12-oz. glasses." Then I start to think, “How much is eight 12-oz. glasses?” It’s 96 ounces. That figures out to six quarts, or if you’re keeping score, one and one-half gallons. Now that's a lot of liquid. Although I suspect the doctor means water, even if it were beer, it's still a bunch. I'll even bet that few doctors have ever chugged down that much liquid in a day! Also, if you are going to quaff 1-1/2 gallons of anything wet, you’d better be close to a commode. No one tells you that! You can bet that at day’s end, the last 12-oz. glass of the eight will really float your teeth. Another admonition you hear is, "Take one of these pills every six hours for the next few weeks. But be careful; they could cause drowsiness and/or vomiting." Now how do you work that? That's four a day,

so that means you have to take one in the middle of the night (you have to wake up around 2 a.m.) and take the others at breakfast and work. Tossing your cookies and falling asleep at work is not a good way to keep your job. So, I say, how about 12-hour pills? I could work that. But few are made that way. I'm guessing they make more money at four a day instead of just two. While I'm on my soapbox, one last complaint. When at a doctor's office, and an examination is necessary, I am asked to take off my clothes and put on this tiny medical gown. Without instruction, I try to put it on like I would normal clothes. But no. After trial and error I find that it goes on backwards. Then I reach behind me and try to find the tie that barely keeps it togther, and ask myself, “Why don't they use Velcro?” As I walk down the corridor, the gown flaps around and my fanny is exposed to the world. Every draft feels like a hurricane. I'm convinced that there is no dignity once you enter a doctor’s office or hospital and put on a mini-gown. So be prepared to abandon your self-esteem at the door and hope no one who sees you, knows you. You are in the clutches of the “Doctor People!” 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.

“We wish you Happy Holidays” Highlighting the works of Jill Iverson Painter Also works by artist

Nell Rolls

The Rich Pelletreau

WildlifeGallery& Studio 6700 Wofford Heights Blvd. Wofford Heights ph:760-376-1403 e-mail: rpgallery@msn.com Mon., & Wed. thru Sat. 10am to 5pm Closed Sun. & Tue

See us for that special artists gift • Custom Framing (PPFA Member)

• Full Service Art & Crafts Store • Studio Space Rental (Private & Long term)

• Art for Sale or Rent

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 Kernville Chamber of Commerce 11447 Kernville Rd. Kernville Corner Sierra Way & Kernville Road Toll Free: 866-KERNVILLE Local: (760) 376-2629

Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce 6404 Lake Isabella Blvd. Across from Senior Center

R I V E R

Friday, January 2, 2009

Legend Boat Launch Ramps Camp Grounds z Towns Hospital + Other Features

Kernville

Emergencies - call 911

Wofford Heights

Kern Valley Hospital McCray and Laurel, Mt. Mesa (760) 379-2681

Airport Wofford Heights Park

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

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.

STATISTICS

Golf Course

M.L. Ludiker Artwork & Design

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

Mountain 99

Page 4

R N

Sierra Way

K E

North Fork Marina Camp 9 Boulder Gulch Hungry Gulch Rich Gulch West Side

Water Ski Area

French Gulch

French Gulch Marina Pioneer Point

d fiel ers k a B

Lake Isabella Wildlife Area

South Fork Recreation Area

to Ridgecrest

Old Isabella Rd Auxiliary Dam Engineer Point Paradise Cove LI Visitor Center Kissack Bay Main Dam Hospital

South Fork Wildlife Parking Area

Southlake

Mountain Mesa

Lake Isabella

Map courtesy Mike Ludiker www.kernvalley.com

Let’s Go Fishing

Still great fishing, even in cold Jack Bustamante Kern River Courier Columnist

Mike Devich/Kern River Courier

A visit to Silver City Ghost Town is a visit to the past.

Must See: Silver City Ghost Town Silver City Ghost Town in Bodfish is another one of our must-sees in the Kern River Valley. Many of our historic buildings have been moved there from other locations around the area to be preserved and enjoyed for years to come, rather than being torn down and lost forever. Ghost Town owner and operator J.C. Corlew works to preserve the buildings and keep them for all to enjoy. He also sometimes rents the property out to film crews to provide authentic “Old West” backdrops for commercials, videos and TV and film scenes. "We are always grateful for the location fees, as these proceeds are what enable us to improve the Ghost Town’s museum displays, keep admission fees for the public low and make repairs to the historic structures on site," said Corlew. Silver City Ghost Town also houses an antique shop, in which you can find other treasures from the past. Silver City is located at 3829 Lake Isabella Blvd. in Bodfish and is open to the public seven days a week in the summer, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on weekends or by appointment in the winter months. For more information on Silver City Ghost Town call 760-379-5146 or email ghosttown@verizon.net or visit them on the web at: http://lakeisabella.net/silvercity/ – Kern River Courier

HUGE AFTER CHRISTMAS ANTIQUE & ESTATE SALE 25% OFF EVERY ITEM (unless already discounted) SELECTED BOOKS 50% OFF. OVER 10,000 ITEMS TO CHOOSE FROM IN SIX ROOMS AT ONE OF KERN VALLEY'S OLDEST ANTIQUE & COLLECTIBLE STORES. COME HELP US CELEBRATE OUR 20TH YEAR IN THE KRV! SALE WEEKENDS ONLY (10AM TO 4PM) THROUGH JAN 25TH.

WE ALSO BUY! CORLEW'S G HOST T OWN R ELICS a nd THE F LYING H ORSE A NTIQUES A T SILVER C ITY G HOST T OWN 3 8 2 9 L A K E I S A B E L L A B LV D . , B O D F I S H

DON'T MISS IT! PH: 760-3 379-5 5146

We had another great week of trout fishing on Isabella Lake. Limits of nice fish are being caught in everyone’s favorite hot spot, wherever that may be on the lake. Everyone has a favorite Everyhot bait, and every fisherone has a man has a favorite favorite hot hot bait, fishing hole. This past and every week, every fisherman hot spot and every hot bait has a were producfavorite ing. hot fishBob Mead can be found ing hole. warming up his spot at French Gulch, --Jack below the culBustamante tural center, just about every day now. Catching nice limits four days in a row, Bob says he just hopes the bite holds up until his son gets up here. Bob wants

Rivernook Campground • Full Hookups • Modern Restrooms • Hot Showers • Shady Campsites • Tent Sites • Fishing • Free Cable • 3 Dump Stations • 30/50 Amps •Pull Thrus •Daily & Weekly Rates

“

”

Bob Mead can be found catching nice trout on the lakeshore just about every day.

to give Junior some catching lessons. Nice catch, Bob. Happy New Year! 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.

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Year-round fishing, whitewater rafting, & kayaking nearby on the Wild & Scenic Kern River

14001 Sierra Way, Box 8, Kernville, CA 760-376-2705

760-376-2860

Entertainment K E R N

Friday, January 2, 2009

R I V E R

Page 5

Couch Theater

Celebrity Extra

Western is a good one

‘House’ actor is actually British

Previews of new DVDs By DNA Smith PICK OF THE WEEK "Appaloosa" -- I'm not a huge fan of Westerns, but there are two -- John Wayne's "The Shootist" and "Tombstone" with Val Kilmer -- that I absolutely love. So, it's always a pleasant surprise when I come across a Western that really entertains me. "Appaloosa" is one of them. "Appaloosa" stars Ed Harris, who is also the director of the film. You can tell this is a labor of love for him; his passion for the Irons, Mortenson genre and this story comes through in every frame. Also starring is Viggo Mortensen. The two men play Virgil Cole (Harris) and Everett Hitch (Mortensen), guns for hire in the Old West. They go from town to town, running out desperados and bringing peace to simple folk who just want to start a new life. Which brings them to the town of Appaloosa. The marshal (an old friend of Cole's) and his deputies are murdered by a sinister rancher named Bragg. Cole and Hitch take on the rancher and his crew, but things get a little complicated when a widow (Renee Zellweger) moves to town and begins a love triangle with the two lawmen. "Appaloosa" is an entertain-

ing, well-acted and -directed film. Fans of Westerns will definitely want to add this DVD to their libraries, and it is well worth a rental for folks like me who aren't fans of the genre. DOG OF THE WEEK "Swing Vote" -- Kevin Costner stars in this ridiculous election-year comedy about the presidential election hanging on the vote of one man. And I use the term "comedy" quite wrongly. What was intended to be a satire of the American political process and a sort of Frank Capra-esque love letter to America is instead an overacted, Pollyanna-ish glop of treacle with all the bite of an earthworm. "Swing Vote" is a waste of your time and my time, and every copy of this DVD should be used to construct a prison for Costner so he never makes another movie again. SERIES "Little Britain USA" "God on Trial" (Masterpiece Theatre) "Skins" Vol. 1 "Man vs. Wild" Season 2 "Reba" Season 5 "Lovejoy" Season 4 "House of Payne" Vol. 3 "Dallas" The Complete Tenth Season "Matlock" Season 2 "Walker, Texas Ranger" The Complete Sixth Season

By Cindy Elavsky Q: The actor who plays House on "House, M.D." sounds so familiar. In what else might I have seen him or heard him? -Betty H., Waynesboro, Va. A: Hugh Laurie is a British actor who has many movies and television shows to his credit. Back in England, he is perhaps most famous for his comedic performances in the "Blackadder" series, "Jeeves and Wooster" Hugh Laurie and "A Bit of Fry and Laurie." In the States, aside from "House," Hugh is best known as the voice of Mr. Fredrick Little in the "Stuart Little" movies. His voice will be highlighted yet again in March of this year, when he plays Dr. Cockroach Ph.D. in the new DreamWorks cartoon/feature film "Monsters vs. Aliens." *** Q: Did country superstar Porter Wagoner pass away? I heard he did, but never read about it in the newspaper. Also,

Sportsman’s Inn Every Friday & Tuesday Karaoke withTina & Jessie

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7. Fred Claus (PG) Vince Vaughn (Warner) 8. Wall-E (G) animated (Walt Disney/Pixar) 9. Kung Fu Panda (G) animated (DreamWorks) 10. Hellboy II: The Golden Army (R) Jeff Kahn (DreamWorks)

*** Have a question for Cindy? E-mail her at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or write to her in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.

Reel Cinema BEDTIME STORIES

This week’s top DVD rentals 1. Wanted (R) James McAvoy (Universal) 2. Step Brothers (R) Will Ferrell (Sony) 3. Hancock (PG-13) Will Smith (Sony) 4. Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (PG) Ben Barnes (Walt Disney) 5. X-Files: I Want to Believe (PG-13) David Duchovny (20th Century Fox) 6. Tropic Thunder (R) Robert Downey Jr. (DreamWorks)

is he in the Country Music Hall of Fame? -- Charles R., St. Louisville, Ohio A: Mr. Porter Wayne Wagoner did indeed pass away on Oct. 28, 2007, at the age of 80. Porter was credited for introducing a young Dolly Parton to America via his longrunning television show, "The Porter Wagoner Show." They were a popular duet team in the late '60s through the early '70s. In 2002, Dolly was on hand to induct Porter into the Country Music Hall of Fame. In addition to his 81 charted singles throughout his long country-music career, in June 2007 Porter released his final album, "Wagonmaster," to great critical acclaim. *** Q: One of my favorite shows of all time is "Northern Exposure." I was wondering who played the character Ed. -Joan O., Burlington, Wis. A: Darren E. Burrows, 42, played the character of Ed Chigliak on the popular series (1990-'95).

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K E R N

R I V E R

Wellness

Page 6

Friday, January 2, 2009

Swollen ankles usually treatable if cause is found DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I retain fluid in my ankles and feet. They swell during the day. After a night's sleep they're normal size. I have taken a diuretic for a whole year, but it's no better. Why? My doctor has thrown his hands up at this. -- M.P. ANSWER: The swelling will get better only if you find its cause. If both feet and ankles are swollen, the possibilities include heart failure, kidney disorders, liver cirrhosis, medicines and, strangely enough, the overuse of diuretics (water pills). One-sided ankle and foot swelling has another list of causes. The swelling gets better at night because when you're in the horizontal position, fluid returns to the circulation. With heart failure, people have other symptoms -- breathlessness when they're up and about. Often, they awaken at night, panting for air. Kidney disease is detectable with a

few simple lab tests. Liver cirrhosis can be confirmed by a physical examination and lab testing. Medicines that cause swelling (edema) constitute a pretty long list. On that list are the popular NSAID drugs, like Advil, Aleve, Motrin and Indocin. Female hormones also can bring on swelling. So can the blood pressure medicines called calcium blockers. Diuretics, when used for a long time and for inappropriate reasons, lead to fluid retention, just the opposite of what they're supposed to do. On your own, cut way back on salt, not just saltshaker use but salty foods like luncheon meats and commercial soups. Elevate your legs as many times during the day as you can and for as long as you can. Wear elastic hose. Ask your doctor if it would be all right to take a vacation from your diuretic. And have you given any thought to finding a doctor who keeps

his arms down? The booklet on swelling -- edema -explains this common condition, its causes and treatments. To obtain a copy, write: Dr. Donohue -- No. 106, Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Enclose a check or money order (no cash) for $4.75 U.S./$6 Can. with the recipient's printed name and address. Allow four weeks for delivery. *** DEAR DR. DONOHUE: You have written about sunken sternum several times, but my 18year-old son has the opposite. He has pigeon breast. He refuses to be seen without a shirt on. I tell him to do push-ups, but he won't. I too have pigeon breast. All he'll do is play video games and stay home. What can I do for him? -S.S. ANSWER: Ask the family doctor for a referral to a chest (thoracic) sur-

geon. Surgery for this deformity usually produces excellent results. Your son has become so self-conscious that a correction is needed for his psychological health. The operation will give him a new lease on life. Push-ups won't help. Pigeon breast is a marked, outward protrusion of the breastbone (sternum). It often runs in families. It's less common than funnel chest, an inward dip in the breastbone. Both are correctable. *** Dr. Donohue regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may write him or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. Readers may also order health newsletters from www.rbmamall.com. (c) 2009 North America Syndicate Inc. All Rights Reserved

Health Insurance Matters

Plan to save on health care Harry Thal Kern River Courier Columnist

H APPY H OLIDA APPY OLIDAYS YS F ROM ROM Y OUR OUR K ERN ERN V ALLEY ALLEY H EAL EALTHCARE THCARE D ISTRICT ISTRICT Phone: 760-379-2681

Fax: 760-379-3133

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Harry P. Thal Insurance Agency 760-376-2100 HarryThal@aol.com

Whether you are writing the check to Blue Cross, Aetna, Blue Shield, etc., or if it is coming out of your paycheck, health insurance is one of those necessary evils. If you don't have it, or Harry Thal the right kind, a major illness or accident can bankrupt you. If you are not on welfare, a major illness and loss of a job can put you into poverty in a heartbeat. But, are you paying too much? If you are covered through an employer, are you paying via payroll deduction as much for your one child as a fellow worker is paying for his five kids? Chances are you are. If you have a healthy spouse, is the payroll deduction priced competitively with what you can get on your own? Group coverage is great for the uninsurable, as California law requires the insurance company to accept the application for all. Perhaps that is why the premiums are often higher than an individual plan. If you are on Medicare, have you noticed how the cost may still be at $0 per month for your HMO plan, but the cost when you receive benefits is greater? If you have a supplement, did you ever think that the

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Harry P. Thal, MA, Certified Senior Advisor, is a licensed insurance broker. He is a member of the Kern Valley Hospital Advisory Board, and President of the Kern 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

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competing companies may offer the identical plan at a lower cost? I know one plan that hasn't raised their rates since 2006. They charge less than the other plans, and the benefits are identical, as they are controlled and regulated by state and federal law. Some prescription plans have an annual maximum benefit. Then you end up paying the full negotiated price. Consider pricing your generic drugs at Wal-Mart or CVS. Many drugs will cost only $4 for a refill, and the cost is not counted towards the "donut hole" if you don't tell them you have insurance. Most insurance plans have an annual deductible. If you are planning on elective, yet needed surgery, perhaps you should do it early in the year, satisfy the plan deductible, and then have your plan provide benefits all year. It is a known fact that health insurance is expensive. Probably because health care is expensive. I can't speak for you, but if I get sick, I want as many options available to me as possible. I want few restrictions, and that equates to good health insurance benefits.

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Friday, January 2, 2009

Kern River Courier

Country Living

Place where butterflies move California Joe Kern River Courier Columnist

We’re going to San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. Five days at a swanky (for us) resort timeshare, Lower Baja, where the marlin swim up to your boat. And the waiter keeps coming up to your California Joe cabana by the pool with more drinkie-poos! There is another place in mainland Mexico I’d love to see. Tougher to get to. It’s in a rugged, mountainous region 60 miles west of Mexico City. And you have to brave a two-hour horseback ride up a steep mountain trail to get there. You’ll know when you’re there. You’ll see tall trees covered with thousands of Monarch butterflies. The butterflies spend the winter roosting in hundreds of trees there, in concentrations so dense that the weight of them can snap off branches. The butterflies come to this out-of-the-way wilderness to huddle together at roughly twenty million per acre. Most of them have come from the Great Lakes region extending up into Canada. How did they find their way to this place? No one knows. But come they do! Every summer! They spend their fall and winter in the fir trees of the El Rosario Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, which provide

just enough humidity and warmth. I’ve been watching the butterflies darting around in my new garden for two years now, not realizing that these are Monarch butterflies and every now and then they leave us and begin their long flight to the Michoacan Province. How do they get there? They know the route. Even the precise groves of trees to land in. Apparently it involves a capacity to respond to celestial clues and the ability to follow the sun and continually change their angle of flight So when spring comes, rush outside into your back yard and look around.The first thing you’ll likely see – Monarch butterflies darting from bush to bush.You can’t miss ‘em; they’re dark blue with yellow wings and they might even land on your outstretched hand. They’ve flown a long way from lower Mexico and they’re ready to rest awhile. We have a relatively short winter here . February will come and the ground will warm up and the trees will begin to show new signs of life. Can’t come soon enough for me. I’m not a great fan of winter. I like to plant things and watch ‘em grow. Maybe this new year I’ll find a way to start my long-awaited vegetable garden. I’ve got plenty of room. All I need is the energy of those butterflies! California Joe is the storyteller persona of Stevenson Phillips, an actor and singer living in Kernville. You may reach him at sscaljoe@aol.com.

Page 7

Recipes for Dummies by Bodfish Bob place and keeps oysters hot.) Top each oyster with spinach mixture. Combine bread crumbs and melted margarine, then sprinkle crumb mixture over oysters. Bake at 450F for 10 minutes. Serve immediately. Bodfish Bob's Marinated Cabbage Slaw (This slaw needs to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight for the flavor to develop, so plan accordingly.) Oysters Bodfish 18 Half Shell Oysters 1/4 cup margarine or butter 1/4 cup chopped celery 1/4 cup chopped green onions and tops 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1 package (10 oz.) frozen, chopped spinach, thawed 2 teaspoons anisette 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs 1 tablespoon melted margarine or butter Rock salt

In a small saucepan, saute celery, onions and parsley in margarine until tender. In blender, combine sauteed vegetables, spinach, anisette and salt. Blend until almost pureed. When necessary, stop blender and push vegetables into blades. Place 1/2 inch of rock salt in a shallow, ovenproof serving dish. Nestle half shell oysters in salt bed. (This rock salt holds the shells in

Schoen’s Repair & Smog

Layer the cabbage and onion alternately in a large glass or ceramic bowl. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar with the oil, sugar, chicken stock, salt, peppers, dry mustard, celery and mustard seeds. Bring to a boil,then pour the mixture over the cabbage and onion. Do not mix. Let the slaw marinate in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours or overnight. Toss before serving. Visit Bodfish Bob on the Web at www.bodfishbob.com.

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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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Page 8

Kern River Courier

Friday, January 2, 2009

This panoramic photo of the river after the Dec. 15 snow was taken by Courier columnist Richard Rowe of Wofford Heights.

Richard Cayia Rowe/ Special to the Courier

Talking About Real Estate

Title search can ruin your day Matt Freeman Kern River Courier Columnist

6117 Lake Isabella Blvd. 760-379-5915 www.freemanslakesiderealty.com

A Very Happy New Year to Everyone!

MLS# 2210109

$209,000

MLS# 2210124

$218,999

3+1.75 with 1840 s.f., .38 acres, beautiful LOG home!

3+2 with 1950 s.f., .43 acres. Wow, one of a kind!

MLS# 2209846 $243,000 2+1.75, 1712 s.f., .94 acres, beautiful home must sell!

MLS# 2209941 $275,000 3+1.75, 1600 s.f., lovely Bakersfield home!

Every few weeks or so I like to do a little article about the often unconsidered part of any real estate transaction, the escrow and title. In the years I have been a real estate agent I have run into several situations that were Matt Freeman scary when it comes to title issues. However, the worst thing is the fact that they could have been easily prevented. One of the biggest issues I have seen and I am sure every real estate agent has seen is someone wanting to sell a piece of property that they do not legally own. Suprised? Don't be; it happens all of the time. Let me explain what escrow and title do. Escrow is a neutral third party that holds all funds for a transaction and makes sure that everything is done legally per federal, state and local law. It has other roles, but that is the biggest. Title, which usually is ordered and completed in an escrow office, concerns the property itself, who owns it, and title

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MLS# 2209253 $139,000 2+2, 1344 s.f., 1977 doublewide w/perm. foundation!

MLS# 2210128 $109,795 2+2 with 1152 s.f., 1989 MH, Very Clean!

MLS# 2209596 $165,000 2+2 with 1200 s.f., .28 acres, Great Lake View!

Matt Freeman is a Realtor with Freeman’s Lakeside Realty (760) 379-5915 or cell 223-0880. His column is not intended to replace legal advice.

Financial Focus

‘Rules of road’ for investors Edward Jones Special to the Courier

MLS# 2210070

issues thereof. See why they are so important? If you read all of my articles and get nothing from them except this, listen up. Don't ever do a real estate transaction without escrow and title. Whether you are using a real estate agent or not. People often will not do an escrow for two reasons: they are too cheap to want to pay for it or they have something to hide. Oftentimes both. Here’s a quick true example of why to do things the right way: Party A wants to sell vacant land to Party B. Both agree to a selling price that is way below market value. Party B sees a great deal. Party B gives a cashier's check to Party A and Party B takes full possession of the property. They want to grade the land and resell the property as an investment. So Party B spends thousands on grading and improvements and then puts the land on the market. Real Estate Agent lists the land, finds a buyer, deal enters escrow. Guess what? Escrow says Party B does not own the land nor did Party A ever own it! Someone just got ripped off. Do escrow and title!

One day, the stock market is down 200 points; the next day, it's up 300. How are you supposed to cope with this turbulence? Here are a few "rules of the road" to help: First, create a plan that defines you long-term goals and establishes a strategy to achieve them. And take steps to implement you plan. The sooner you start investing, the better. Next, stay invested. It takes courage to buy stocks in a lengthy bear market, but it's essential that you stay invested

during good times and bad. By purchasing high-quality investments, and holding them for the long term, you'll have a good chance of success. Finally, diversify your investment dollars across a range of stocks, mutual funds, bonds, government securities and other vehicles. Diversification can help you reduce the effects of volatility and increase you chances of success. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Luz E Polcik, your local Edward Jones Financial Adviser. Luz can be reached at 760-379-1722.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Kern River Courier

Fire hits Parks and Rec HQ, office relocates temporarily Kern County Parks and Recreation Department headquarters reopened Monday morning in temporary offices next door after a fire late on Friday evening damaged much of the building at 1110 Golden State Ave. in Bakersfield. No one was in the offices when the fire occurred. Bakersfield Fire Department investigators believe an electrical problem in the building’s computer room likely caused the fire. Parks and Recreation Department staff worked through the holiday weekend along with county maintenance crews, computer and communications technicians and solid waste workers to dispose of debris, salvage files and equipment, move furniture,

Page 9

Come in and join your friends for our Specail

and re-establish computer and telephone links at the department’s temporary offices at 2717 O St. “Fortunately, the Bakersfield Fire Department was able to save a lot of our equipment and furniture from damage, and thanks to several county employees who worked all weekend, we are open for business without losing a single day,” Parks Director Bob Lerude said. “These people did a fantastic job of relocating our department and getting us up and running again.” Lerude said the fire did not destroy computerized reservation records for park facilities because central computers at another location maintain backup data files.

NewYearsEve Bash Call for reservations & details

125 Buena Vista Drive Kernville 760-376-2411

Cocktail Lounge Open Daily @ 4pm Closed Wednesdays

Entertainment Friday & Saturday Nights

Open 4:00 to 9:00pm Closed Wednesdays

Once in a Year... NewYears Sale! Follow Through with that New Years Resolution & Start Your New Year off Right with a Great Pre-Owned Vehicle for

Under $8,500.00

2004 Saturn Ion3 (#140182) Fully Loaded V6, 4D, Leather, Moon Roof, Excellent Gas Mileage. On Sale For $8,450.00

03 Ford Taurus SE (#204399) V6, PS, PW, PDL, AC, Compact Disc, Automatic, Brand New Tires, Only 53,000 Miles. Sale Price $6,988.00

2003 Dodge Caravan SE Minivan 4D (#278987) Beautiful, Fully Loaded, 7Passenger Van, V6 3.3L, Ready for your family. Only $ 6,899.00

2005 Ford Focus ZX4 S Sedan 4D (#230234) Fully Loaded, Low Miles, 4-Cyl. 2.0L. Sale Price $7,988.00

Kern River Motors Offers Extended Warranties. Special Financing, Motorcycle Products and Parts Including Oil and Filters.

3628 Suhre Street Lake Isabella (Next to Crossroads Shell)

Owner: Lisa Stephens

760-549-0077 Small Print: All prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any deal document preparation charge, and any emission

2003 Ford Ranger Short Bed (#PA47707) Leather, V6 3.0L, Automatic, Low Miles, Great Gas Mileage! Only $6,899.00

Open Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm testing charge. prices and warranty giveaways good through January 3, 2009. Closed on New Years Day.

Happy New Year to All! from

Help Wanted at a time it’s needed the most. We at the Kern River Courier want to help end the recession. So in the spirit of that, if you can hire someone and wish to run a "Help Wanted" ad, we will publish it for free* all during January! Just submit it to us (our contact information is on page 2). * Free help wanted ads must be legitimate employment openings available with in or based in the Kern River Valley by a valley employer. Please list jobs as temporary, part-time or full-time, the nature of work to be performed, brief job experience and/or applicant requirements, employers name and contact information. All job listings advertised for this promotion must be for reportable income employment of minimum wage or better compensation, and meet California State and Federal wage and employment laws. The Kern River Courier reserves the right to refuse any advertising that it deems fraudulent, inappropriate or offensive in nature. Offer ends January 31, 2009.

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Page 10

Kern River Courier

Friday, January 2, 2009 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 _________________________ GRAND OPENING- Dec 30th BEBE NAILS AND SPA Holiday Season Special 10% off any service. 6925 Wofford Blvd. (760) 812-0057

*bounce houses *water slides *sno cones & cotton candy machines *party supplies & more

WE DELIVER!

ABRAHAM’S APPLIANCE R EPAIR SERVICE WASHERS-DRYERS • REFRIGERATORS STOVES • DISHWASHERS • ICEMAKERS ETC.

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Chuck Barbee - Still & Video PHOTOGRAPHY Portraits - Family Events Equestrian - Historical Photo Scanning & Restoration Transfers to DVD & CD 760-376-8784

Firewood For Sale

Pets

Specialty Shops

www.kernkidspartyrentals.com

"FIREWOOD" Camping•Cooking•Home Heat

THE FIREWOOD GUY 6400 Lake Isabella Blvd, #C Lake Isabella, 760-379-8087

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 _________________________ NEW YEAR COMPANIONS Adorable CKC Registered Chihuahua puppies. (8 weeks and up. Teacups and Tiny Toys. Current shots. Pad trained $200-$400 379-1403

NEED INSTANT CASH? We buy gold & diamonds JEWELRY MART - 379-6340

Located next to Valley Office Lake Isabella

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 _________________________ Southlake - 2 Bedroom Duplex w/garage, laundry room, fireplace, dishwasher, $600/mo + $600 security deposit. 378-3374 _________________________ Wofford Heights 2 bd home on one acre w/garage. $750/mo. References required. During week call (805) 375-0047. Weekends call (760) 376-1944. _________________________ Riverkern 2 bd home. Backs up to the Sequoia Nat'l Forest. $850/mo. References required. During week call (805) 375-0047. Weekends call (760) 376-1944.

Homes 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

For Sale TOP OF THE LINE

“Country Comfort”Woodburning insert with damper & variable electric fan controls. Asking $500. 661-873-7634

GIVE A GREAT YEAR ROUND GIFT SUBSCRIBE TO THE

KERN R IVER C OURIER

Ads - 5 Lines - $5.50

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.

Land For Sale

Special Offer

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

We at the Kern River Courier want to help end the recession. So in the spirit of that, if you can hire someone and wish to run a "help wanted" ad, we will give it to you for free during January! Just submit it to us (our contact information is on page 2) and we'll put it in for free all during January.

Spaces for Rent

For Trade?

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

- USELESS COMPUTER Must run under Windows with Vista. Our office doesn’t have any windows, nor vista, just one door with a view of the hallway. Told we should switch to an apple. Printer wouldn’t work with an apple. Will trade apple for a banana and see if that works. Computer does have top name, “DVD” brand automatic cup holder.

COCKTAILS AND DANCING

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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, January 2, 2009

Page 11

Voices of Faith

Awesome benefits were promised Clarence Semonious, pastor Prince of Peace Lutheran Fellowship, Kernville

We are captivated by the newest and the latest version of everything from technology to theology. Even as the calendar moves into a new year of uncertainty, the country prepares for a newness of government that people hope will bring change. No one gives details of what the change will be, except to say that it will not Semonious be whatever I personally do not like about the present situation. Speaking for me (maybe alone), there is not one thing that is a modern solution to social or governmental problems that can approach the ancient social relationship of living as a personally adopted child. The season just passing is an account of events that occurred 2,000 years ago. But the world has not yet realized the awesome benefits that were promised. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6. All wrapped up in the nativity of the birth of that child was also a prophecy the world may soon be experiencing. Because just as “when a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.” John 16:21. “So also you

have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.” John 16:22. The people who are called Christian today have made themselves more in the image of the Prodigal Son than followers of The Way. Luke 15:11 recounts the misadventures of a younger son who thought his way of life would be better than his father’s way. Eventually “…he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.” Luke 15:17-18. Let me explain here that one may be guilty of prodigal behavior from acts other than those described in Luke 15. The Pharisees and Sadducees were condemned by Jesus for attempting to twist the Word of God to fit their own selfish interests. With different details, they left their loving, Heavenly Father to pursue a separate, willful life. When the prodigal returned “…his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. …the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.' And they began to celebrate. Luke 15:20, 22-24. The Kern River Courier encourages messages from all churches. E-mail them to office@kernrivercourier.com

Churches of the Valley 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 St. Sherrian Episcopal Church Odd Fellows Hall, Kernville Sundays 10 a.m. 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 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

Psalms of the Bible The Psalms: 2 (King James Version) The Reign of the LORD’s Anointed 1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his Anointed, Acts 4.25, 26 saying, 3 Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. 4 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision. 5 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure. 6 Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Zion. 7 I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Acts 13.33 · Heb. 1.5 ; 5.5 8 Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; Rev. 2.26, 27 ; 12.5 ; 19.15 thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. 10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. 11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

Bible Trivia by Wilson Casey 1. The main stories of Jesus' birth are in Chapters 1 and 2 of Matthew and which other book? Mark, Luke, Romans, Revelation 2. From Matthew 1: 18, when Mary became pregnant, she and Joseph were in what relationship? Married, Engaged, Just friends, Strangers 3. For the journey to Bethlehem, how did Mary and Joseph travel? Bible not specific, Walked, Rode donkey, Boat

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.

4. At the birth of Jesus, who was king of Judaea? Solomon, Herod, Balak, Belshazzar 5. What was the home city of Mary and Joseph? Capernaum, Nazareth, Aphek, Shechem ANSWERS: 1) Luke; 2) Engaged; 3) Bible not specific; 4) Herod; 5) Nazareth (c) 2009 King Features Synd., Inc.

Answers to puzzles on pages 12-13:

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.

–– The American Bible Society

Super Crossword answers

Page 12

Friday, January 2, 2009

Courier chuckle of the week: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ever notice how irons have a setting for permanent press? I don't get it.â&#x20AC;? Steven Wright

See Page 11 for answers to puzzles

Salomeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stars ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Romantic aspects are high at this time for single Lambs looking for love. Warm and fuzzy feelings are also at enhanced levels for Rams and Ewes in paired relationships. TAURUS(April 20 to May 20) This week favors what Taureans dote on -- namely, love and money. Look for more meaningful relationships for both singles and pairs, as well as an improved financial outlook. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) All lingering shreds of that recent bout with boredom are dissipated as you eagerly accept a challenging offer. Your positive mood persuades others to join you in this venture. CANCER(June 21 to July 22) You might need validation for a possible solution to a situation involving someone close to you. Consider asking a trusted friend or relative to help you with this problem. LEO (July 23 to August 22) Investigate carefully before agreeing to assist a friend or colleague with a personal problem. There might be hidden factors that could emerge later that will create problems for you. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Your decision to work with an associate rather than go it alone, as you first proposed, brings an unexpected bonus. Be careful not to be judgmental. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A loved one's health problem could, once again, make demands on your time and attention. But this time, make some

Kern River Courier

demands of your own, and insist that others pitch in and help. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) This is a good time for the traditionally staid Scorpion to plan adjustments in your day-to-day schedules. Be more flexible and allow for more impromptu, off-the-cuff actions. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Avoid creating unnecessary fuss over a situation you don't approve of. If it's going to work, it will do so despite your objections. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Working with a trusted colleague could open your mind to exploring some considerations you previously dismissed out of hand. The weekend brings news from a loved one. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Resolving a recent problem leaves you in a good position to strengthen your influence on how things get done. But continue to encourage ideas and suggestions from others. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A new friend suggests an interesting opportunity. But check it out before you snap at it. It might be a good deal for some people, but it might not work in helping you reach your goals. BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of helping people solve their problems, making you a mostrespected counselor and trusted friend. (c) 2009 King Features Synd., Inc.

Page 13

Trivia Test By Fifi Rodriguez 1. MYTHOLOGY: A satyr is a mythical creature that is half man and half what? 2. MILITARY: What is a dreadnought? 3. FAMOUS QUOTATIONS: Who said, "That government is best which governs the least, because its people discipline themselves." 4. PSYCHOLOGY: What fear is represented by the condition called gamophobia? 5. LANGUAGE: What does the Greek prefix "intro" mean? Answers:

1. Goat or horse 2. A heavily armored battleship 3. Thomas Jefferson 4. Fear of marriage 5. Within

Friday, January 2, 2009

Page 14

Kern River Courier Co-publisher’s message

Courier plans bright New Year Mike Devich Kern River Courier Co-publisher

As we close out 2008, we here at the Kern River Courier are looking back at the past year and we are pleased with our success. And we’re looking forward to a bright 2009. Our prod- Devich ucts are wanted. When Michael Batelaan and I are out delivering the Courier (yes, we not only produce the paper but we deliver it too!), people come up to us and swipe a copy out of our hands before we can even deliver them to a business. And they invariably tell us how much they love the Courier. And the price is certainly right. The Courier is free. It was designed that way and we plan to keep it that way. The way we figure it is, why should an advertiser buy an ad that people have to pay to see? Every week more and more local businesses ask us to drop them some copies. We’re ending up with not enough copies to even stock our office. We’re depending on the small number of returns we pick up each week to have enough for our back

files. Greater numbers of people are picking up the Courier. We’re going to have to go to 6,000 copies before long if it keeps up. Many of our readers ask us how can we put out a free paper. Well, our expenses are paid by the advertising. All we ask is that our readers go into the businesses who have ads in the Courier and see what they have to offer. (If someone sees you looking around, tell them you heard about their business in the Courier. And tell businesses if their ad is not in the Courier, it needs to be. Kern Valley people will see their ad in the Courier.) Because our products are so popular, we are going to be extremely busy for the next three months or so. Our company puts out several special publications besides the Courier. We’ll be working long hours as we produce the Whiskey Flat Claim Jumper (for Whiskey Flay Days), the Kern Angler (for the Isabella Lake Fishing Derby) and a few new publications as well. We at the Courier are looking for 2009 to be a great year for us, and we wish all of our readers and advertisers a great New Year as well. Mike Devich is co-publisher of the Kern River Courier. You can reach him at office@kernrivercourier.com

Co-publisher’s message

Can’t help but comment on time Michael Batelaan Kern River Courier Co-publisher

If 2008 was not long enough already, we are being asked to add one more second to our agony. I'm sure I am not the only one eager to put this past year behind us, but now we will have to hold off our good-byes for just a moment Batelaan more this New Year's Eve. If you ask me, that’s just one second too long. With this being a leap year, we were asked to add one extra day to this not-so-great year already. They tell us this occurs once every four years because a complete turn around the sun – our year with all its seasons – takes about 365 days and six hours. So why can't we wait and make up this accumulation of 24 hours and add it to a good year? Who are they, you say, that are adding to this past year’s misery? They are the world's official timekeepers, who by international agreement established the world's two time scales in 1970, one based on the Earth's rotation and another on highly accurate atomic

clocks. (Now how does one get that job?) The other time keeper is the U.S. Naval Observatory. This he or she keeps some 50 of Pentagon's master atomic clocks wound. These official timekeepers, along with the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service, have ordered a "leap second" to the last day of the year, to help match clocks to the earth's slowing down. Yes, we’re slowing down because the pull of tides, snow (or the lack of it) on the polar ice caps, solar wind, space dust and magnetic storms, are putting the brakes on the earth, according to the U.S. Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (yet another timekeeper). Now I know, this year has dragged on a bit, not including the help from our timekeepers, yet my world has done nothing but speed up. I guess time will tell. So at 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds, let us all pause because we must let another extra second of this past year tick by. Michael Batelaan is co-publisher of the Kern River Courier. You can reach him at office@kernrivercourier.com

Friday, January 2, 2009 Our Valley, Our Earth

Did we have one continent? Ron Bolyard Kern River Courier Columnist

To my readers, I say: Happy New Year and thank you for your dedication to reading my articles! Your interest is what keeps me involved with the preparation of a weekly discussion about my favorite subject. Geology Bolyard is fascinating and dynamic in change and constant in the generation of novel items about how our earth has been put together. I am going to start our New Year with a little history of one gigantic and momentous change

that occurred in the science of geology, the theory of Continental Drift. This new thought was introduced in 1915 when Alfred Lothar Wegener, a meteorologist, published his book "The Origins of the Continents and Oceans." In this book, he described a process called "die Verschiebung der Kontinente", which translates literally as "continental displacement." But by 1926, when it made its first recorded entry into the English language, was transformed into what is today's more familiar phrase: "Plate Tectonics." Initially, this hypothesis was received with utmost skepticism by the scientific community, especially because it was introduced by a meteorologist, not a practicing geological mind. The diagram here is a drawing of Wegener's hypothesis. 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.

Letters to the Courier Dear Kern River Courier, I wanted to take a moment to respond to the person who wrote in (Letters to the Courier, Dec. 26) concerning cell phone use while driving. I want to correct a few facts. If you visit the DMV's Web site (http://dmv.ca.gov/cellularphonelaws/) you will find "The base fine for the FIRST offense is $20 and $50 for subsequent convictions." Also, although using a hand-held phone is against the law, you can use a hands-free device to talk on your phone while driving. Just like any other tool, a cell phone can be a valuable resource when used responsibly. Kim Alley Isabella Highlands (Mike Devich responds: We mistakenly omitted a paragraph in Mr. Bergeron’s letter concerning how he arrived at the “almost $200” figure for using a hand-held cell phone while driving. Here is the missing part: “Did you know the $20 fine is actually almost $200? I saw a report on Eyewitness News that someone received their bill after they got a ticket, and the amount was $165. The reporter checked it out and found that the state, county and city all wanted their share with fees, surcharges, etc.”

Walker-Reed Barbara (Bobby) Walker and Charles (Chuck) Reed were married in the Kern Valley Bible Church Nov. 1 by Pastor Guy Rimestad. Despite a power outage, the ceremony proceeded as planned with a few humorous moments that lightened the nuptial service. 140 guests joined the newlywed couple for a reception, at South Fork Woman’s Club in Weldon, to celebrate this happy event. The fun and humor continued and a good time was had by all. What a wonderful sendoff for their honeymoon cruise.

Friday, January 2, 2009

Kern River Courier

Page 15

HAPPENINGS continued from page 3

Colonial-era clothing was the subject of a presentation at a recent meeting of the Kawaiisu chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. At left is the speaker, Anne Lampman, Immediate Past State Regent of the DAR, shown with Kawaiisu chapter president Dona Anderson.

visit the Chamber’s Web site at www.kernvillechamber.org. Kern Valley Hospital Foundation’s Heart Walk held in February The Kern Valley Hospital Foundation holds a Heart Walk event in February as a fund-raising event and a heart-healthy experience as well. Individuals or teams are encouraged find a sponsor and get out in the fresh air and participate. Awards will be given. The date for the 2009 event has not yet been determined. For more information, call Jeanette Rogers at (760) 376-4419. Keyesville Classic for mountain bikers on weekend of March 15 The annual Keyesville Classic is a mountain bike race put on each year by the Southern Sierra Fat Tire Association in the beautiful hills of the Keyesville Recreation Area. For more information, see http://ssfta.com/ Sweet Adelines Friends & Family Night March 19 The Kern Valley Sweet Adelines female barbershop harmony singing group will be having their Friends and Family Night on March 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Senior Center in Lake Isabella. For more information, call Cheryl at (760) 376-4124. “Living Green in the KRV” event coming March 27-30 Want to know how to reduce your “footprint” on the world? Learn about living responsibly, protecting our environment and conserving our resources at a new festival in the valley, “Living Green in the KRV.” This “expo”-like festival will have many booths and lots of information about living green. The location will be the Family Life Center in Wofford Heights. For more information, call Richard at (760) 333-4561 or go to www.krvr.org. Isabella Lake Fishing Derby to be held April 4-6 The Isabella Lake Fishing Derby attracts thousands of anglers from all over to try to catch the tagged trout worth $10,000. This year, however, there will be ten $10,000 trout! And, in addition, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the derby, there will be a $20,000 trout! And there are multitudes of other prizes, including cash awards for 1,000 other tagged fish. You must be pre-registered to be able to win. The derby is put on by the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce with major help from the Kern River Valley Fish and Habitat Club and many national sponsors. Also, new this year is a 50/50 raffle to benefit the Kern River Valley Youth Center. Call Dave at 376-4430 about the raffle. For derby information, go to http://derby.kernrivervalley.com/ or call the chamber at (760) 379-5236. Kern River Festival whitewater races put on April 18-19 The Kern River Festival has been going on since the 1960s and features races by kayaks and rafts on the mighty Kern River in Kernville. It’s fun to watch, but you can participate as well. It is put on by the Kern Valley River Council. For more information, visit http://www.kernfestival.org/ or call (818) 340-3083. Information for most items from the Kernville Chamber of Commerce. To include your event in the Kern River Courier Calendar, just submit the information to the Courier (our addresses are on page 2) by Tuesday for Friday’s issue. Events must be open to the public and admission price, if any, must be listed.

Arrest reports A digest of arrest reports from various public safety agencies in the Kern River Valley area

There were nine arrests made by the Kern County Sheriff's Department between December 11, 2008 and December 26, 2008; one in Bodfish; two in Wofford Heights; one in Onyx; five in Lake Isabella. All arrests were transported and booked at Central Receiving Facility in Bakersfield.

December 11, 2008: A female, 25 year old, from Bodfish was arrested in the 1900 block of Harrington Ave., Bodfish on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of a syringe. December 15, 2008: A 41 year old female from Onyx was arrested in the 10500 block of Mountain View Road, Onyx on suspicion of spousal battery. December 17, 2008: A Lake Isabella 48 year old female was arrested in the 2900 block of Lazy Lane, Lake Isabella on suspicion of violating a court order to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages. December 18, 2008:: A 50 year old Wofford Heights male was arrested in the 70 block of Stonecrest Drive, Wofford Heights on a warrant charging him with attempted kidnapping. December 19, 2008: A Lake Isabella male 48 years of age was arrested in the 3100 block of Erskine Creek Road, Lake Isabella on suspicion of possession of illegal controlled substance, possession of illegal drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and being under the influence of a controlled substance. December 22, 2008; A Lake Isabella 44 year old female was arrested in the 6600 block of Linda Ave., Lake Isabella on suspicion of spousal battery. December 25, 2008: A 38 year old Mtn. Mesa male was arrested in the 3700 block of McCray Ave., Lake Isabella on suspicion of vandalism. December 26, 2008: A Lake Isabella male, 35 years of age, was arrested in the 4400 block of Lake Isabella Blvd., Lake Isabella on a warrant charging him with posse3ssion of illegal drugs. A 52 year old male from Kernville was arrested in the 100 block of Parkway Street, Wofford Heights on warrants charging him with burglary, writing NSF checks, driving on a suspended license, and driving under the influence.

Photo submitted by Marian DeMars

Legal Notices 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: BIZZY 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.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: WOFFORD HEIGHTS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION (2008B7866) Street address of principal place of business: 6501 Wofford Boulevard, Wofford Heights, CA 93285. REGISTRANT: Wofford Heights Community Association, 6501 Wofford Boulevard, Wofford Heights, CA 93285: E, Unincorporated Association. 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. (11/26/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. WOFFORD HEIGHTS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION. This statement filed on 11/26/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, Auditor-ControllerCounty Clerk By B. Moore (34993)-Published by the Kern River Courier December 26 2008, January 2, 9 and 16, 2009. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT Fictitious Business Name(s) DBA #1: BEBE NAILS & SPA (2008-B8335 ) Street address of principal place of business: 6925 Wofford Boulevard, Wofford Heights, CA 93285. REGISTRANT: Jessica Nguyen, 1529 South Cedar Street, Santa Ana, CA 92707: 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. (12/23/2013) A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. BEBE NAILS & SPA. This statement filed on 12/23/2008. ANN K. BARNETT, AuditorController-County Clerk By G. Meza (34993)-Published by the Kern River Courier January 2, 9, 16 and 23, 2009.

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Kern River Courier

Friday, January 2, 2009

The Kern River Valley’s Bird World

Kern River Valley has seven of nine wren species Bob Barnes Kern River Courier Columnist

This is the first in a series on Kern River Valley's seven wren species. Wrens are small, active birds with slender, slightly curved bills. Characteristic is a cocked tail, as shown in Bob Steele's accompanying photo. There are nine species of wrens found in the United States. Seven of those nine occur in the Kern River Valley and nest here as well, all within a few miles of each other. This concentration of wren species occurs nowhere else in the United States. (The two wren species not present in the KRV are the Carolina Wren of the Southeastern U.S. and the Sedge Wren of the Northeastern U.S.) The BEWICK'S WREN is commonly found in Pacific Coast states, then across the southern U.S. through Texas. It has

become increasingly rare in the eastern U.S. in recent years. Bewick's Wrens are separated from other wrens by their combination of bold white eye stripe, white underbody, and plain brown back. They are particularly vocal singers. In the KRV, the Bewick's Wren is the most widespread wren species. It is very common in the South Fork Kern River riparian forest. It is common in desert scrub, chaparral, and foothill scrub. Some locations to look for Bewick's – Bob Barnes Wren are the Kern River Preserve in Weldon, chaparral and shrub habitat along the Whiskey Flat Trail at Burlando Road's end in Kernville, alongside the road to Keyesville, brushy slopes around Bodfish and Lake Isabella, shrub habitat bordering the dirt portion of Erskine Creek Road, desert scrub along Kelso Valley Road and desert scrub leading east from Canebrake - especially

“The BEWICK'S

WREN is commonly found in Pacific Coast states, then across the southern U.S. through Texas.”

Bob Steele/Special to the Kern River Courier

Bewick's Wren is the most widespread KRV wren species. around BLM's Bert's Park rest stop just east of Hwy. 178 Milepost 74.00. TIDBIT: John James Audubon named the Bewick's Wren after Thomas Bewick (1754-1828), English author and wood engraver who wrote and illustrated "A History of English Birds." Audubon found Bewick "at all times a most agreeable, kind and benevolent friend." From "The Dictionary of American Bird Names" by Ernest A. Choate, 1985. Until next week, happy and

productive birding. Reprinted from the Kern River Courier, Jan. 6, 2006. Bob Barnes, a well-known expert on birding (and former president of the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce) now lives in Ridgecrest and can be reached at bbarnes@lightspeed.net Our thanks to renowned nature photographer Bob Steele for allowing us to use his stunning photos. Visit his Web site at www.bobsteelephoto.com.

BIRD continued from page 1

George C. Pommerenke/Special to the Courier

Joshua trees on Walker Pass reach for the winter skies.

nests at Audubon's Kern River Preserve, but leaves by late September to winter in southern Mexico southward to northern South America – a rare sighting indeed. The first ever Tejon CBC was held on Dec. 19, sandwiched between storms. This count was memorable for the number of vehicles that got stuck in the thick blanket of snow in the mountains and desert. Birds were memorable too. In one area, the bird watchers saw a flock of eight Golden Eagles take off en masse in one of the San Joaquin Valley canyons. A rare Rough-legged Hawk and many Bald Eagles were near the same territory. Two really rare birds were seen by another group – Western Tanager and Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Both species spend their winters in southern Mexico and further south, but the Rose-breasted Grosbeak is normally found in

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the United States east of the Rocky Mountains during the summer only. Two Kern County CBCs were held on Dec. 20, Butterbredt and Lancaster. (The Butterbredt count is conducted in the eastern Sierra around the Kelso Creek and Jawbone areas.) Pinyon Jays are a species that bird watchers come from all over the world to find, and if they had been here on that day, they would not have been disappointed as 77 Pinyon Jays were seen on Audubon's Kelso Creek Sanctuary. The Buena Vista CBC was held on Dec. 21, and had the rarest bird of all; a Lesser Blackbacked Gull. This was the first time this bird has been recorded in Kern County (more than likely because it normally lives in Europe!) (Editor’s note: Be sure to see Sheehey’s very informative Web site at www.natureali.org.)