Sunday, October 19, 2008
Wine Stomp at Leona Valley Winery
Wine Stomp at Leona Valley Winery The Leona Valley Winery, 40352 90th St Leona Valley, invites you to experience a unique wine stomp October 25, 2- 7 p.m. David Reynolds says visitors will learn more about this local wine. The event boasts a Renaissance theme with jousting, leather workers, goat cheese maker as well as musicians and other performances. For directions cut and paste this link : http://www.mapquest.com/mq /5-_X7l To learn more go to the winery’s web page at http://www.leonavalleywinery.com/
Friday, October 10, 2008
Judy Garland Museum needed in Lancaster
AV author makes case for a Judy Garland museumThis story appeared in the Antelope Valley PressFriday, October 10, 2008.
By VERN LAWSON Special to the Valley Press
LANCASTER, CA - Bonnie Stone is campaigning for a cause - greatly expanded tourism in the Antelope Valley. The local author presented an illustrated lecture Wednesday night at the West Antelope Valley Historical Society in the Cedar Centre Auditorium.
She screened still photos of the three houses in which Judy Garland (then Frances Gumm) lived during the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Stone has been urging that one home - a vacant house on the southwest corner of Cedar Avenue and Newgrove Street - be acquired for a Judy Garland museum. She also urged that a yellow brick road be painted along Cedar Avenue from Lancaster Boulevard to Avenue J.
Displaying photos obtained from Grand Rapids, Minn., she pointed out how the town in which Judy was born in 1922 has converted her family's home into a museum-gift shop and each year stages a Garland Festival.
About 20,000 tourists visit the Grand Rapids museum each year, despite the fact that it is not on a major thoroughfare, she said.
Stone emphasized that any promotion of a Garland project should be tied in with some existing Lancaster celebration - such as the Poppy Festival or the Aerospace Walk of Fame ceremonies.
About 60 members attended the meeting, and Stone asked for any help the group could provide in preserving the Garland era.
She showed a picture of the old Lancaster Grammar School auditorium, on Cedar Avenue between Milling and Newgrove streets, and noted the Lancaster School District Foundation has begun an effort to renovate the facility and name it the Judy Garland Theater, with permission from the star's family.
In addition to her discussion of the woman who has been acclaimed one of the brightest stars in entertainment history, Stone focused on a number of other celebrities who lived for a time in the Valley.
She showed the UPS headquarters on Avenue L, west of Sierra Highway, the site of the homestead where John Wayne (then Marion Morrison) lived from 1914 to 1916.
Other residences included the homes of Frank Zappa, famed and innovative rock musician, and Barbara Mandrell, country singer.
Stone is the author of an extensive Antelope Valley tour guide, "San Andreas Ain't No Fault of Mine," and is continuing to research local history and lore to be included in each successive edition of the book.
By VERN LAWSON Special to the Valley Press
LANCASTER, CA - Bonnie Stone is campaigning for a cause - greatly expanded tourism in the Antelope Valley. The local author presented an illustrated lecture Wednesday night at the West Antelope Valley Historical Society in the Cedar Centre Auditorium.
She screened still photos of the three houses in which Judy Garland (then Frances Gumm) lived during the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Stone has been urging that one home - a vacant house on the southwest corner of Cedar Avenue and Newgrove Street - be acquired for a Judy Garland museum. She also urged that a yellow brick road be painted along Cedar Avenue from Lancaster Boulevard to Avenue J.
Displaying photos obtained from Grand Rapids, Minn., she pointed out how the town in which Judy was born in 1922 has converted her family's home into a museum-gift shop and each year stages a Garland Festival.
About 20,000 tourists visit the Grand Rapids museum each year, despite the fact that it is not on a major thoroughfare, she said.
Stone emphasized that any promotion of a Garland project should be tied in with some existing Lancaster celebration - such as the Poppy Festival or the Aerospace Walk of Fame ceremonies.
About 60 members attended the meeting, and Stone asked for any help the group could provide in preserving the Garland era.
She showed a picture of the old Lancaster Grammar School auditorium, on Cedar Avenue between Milling and Newgrove streets, and noted the Lancaster School District Foundation has begun an effort to renovate the facility and name it the Judy Garland Theater, with permission from the star's family.
In addition to her discussion of the woman who has been acclaimed one of the brightest stars in entertainment history, Stone focused on a number of other celebrities who lived for a time in the Valley.
She showed the UPS headquarters on Avenue L, west of Sierra Highway, the site of the homestead where John Wayne (then Marion Morrison) lived from 1914 to 1916.
Other residences included the homes of Frank Zappa, famed and innovative rock musician, and Barbara Mandrell, country singer.
Stone is the author of an extensive Antelope Valley tour guide, "San Andreas Ain't No Fault of Mine," and is continuing to research local history and lore to be included in each successive edition of the book.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Judy Garland lives
Judy Garland lives.
Sometimes I feel that the powers that be in Lancaster, CA, do not take me serious about Judy Garland.
I’ve talked to city officials about saving one of the three homes she lived in during her time in Lancaster.
I’d love to see a yellow brick road paved down Cedar Street from Lancaster Blvd. to Avenue J.
I don’t think I got anywhere, BUT things might change. The BBC was in town Tuesday, September 16TH to talk to the old timers about Judy Garland. BBC is making a 6 part radio series on Judy Garland that explores the legacy of one of the greatest entertainers in history. The series' presenter is the well known roadcaster/author/journalist Michael Freedland. And the series will be heard across the world via the BBC's website.
Michael and the series producer Neil Rosser will be coming to Lancaster to interview anyone who met, knew or remembers any of the Gumm family. From storekeepers, confectioners, theatre workers and especially neighbors. They are very anxious to find anyone who went to school with Judy. Even people who have memories of stories told by their parents.
With Vern Lawson guiding them around, they are in good hands. Here’s hoping that the local powers see the need for a Judy Garland museum and a yellow brick road.
Sometimes I feel that the powers that be in Lancaster, CA, do not take me serious about Judy Garland.
I’ve talked to city officials about saving one of the three homes she lived in during her time in Lancaster.
I’d love to see a yellow brick road paved down Cedar Street from Lancaster Blvd. to Avenue J.
I don’t think I got anywhere, BUT things might change. The BBC was in town Tuesday, September 16TH to talk to the old timers about Judy Garland. BBC is making a 6 part radio series on Judy Garland that explores the legacy of one of the greatest entertainers in history. The series' presenter is the well known roadcaster/author/journalist Michael Freedland. And the series will be heard across the world via the BBC's website.
Michael and the series producer Neil Rosser will be coming to Lancaster to interview anyone who met, knew or remembers any of the Gumm family. From storekeepers, confectioners, theatre workers and especially neighbors. They are very anxious to find anyone who went to school with Judy. Even people who have memories of stories told by their parents.
With Vern Lawson guiding them around, they are in good hands. Here’s hoping that the local powers see the need for a Judy Garland museum and a yellow brick road.
Lancaster's singing road
Lancaster's musical road
I’d love to think that Lancaster has the nation's only singing road. Whether or not we do, it was a joy to drive across the highway that Honda’s sound engineers’ scored. As we drove 50 miles an hour along Avenue K just west of 60th street, the tires began to hum the William Tell Overture. That’s what my husband heard. What did I hear? Ode to Joy. Whatever it was, it was an absolute hoot to experience a song along our roads. Why can’t all highways be musical?
Just two weeks after writing this, Lancaster City officials paved over our little piece of joy. It was becoming such a draw for people all over Southern California. It even got attention from BBC international.
What a shame that the city doesn't realize that tourists bring in money to the restaurants and hotels.
We really lost out.
I’d love to think that Lancaster has the nation's only singing road. Whether or not we do, it was a joy to drive across the highway that Honda’s sound engineers’ scored. As we drove 50 miles an hour along Avenue K just west of 60th street, the tires began to hum the William Tell Overture. That’s what my husband heard. What did I hear? Ode to Joy. Whatever it was, it was an absolute hoot to experience a song along our roads. Why can’t all highways be musical?
Just two weeks after writing this, Lancaster City officials paved over our little piece of joy. It was becoming such a draw for people all over Southern California. It even got attention from BBC international.
What a shame that the city doesn't realize that tourists bring in money to the restaurants and hotels.
We really lost out.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Silent movie and ice cream social
Imagine a silent movie and an ice cream social – what a chance to build memories of a hot summer night.
The event, hosted by the City of Lancaster and the Western Hotel Museum will be held Friday, July 25, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Western Hotel Museum, 557 W. Lancaster Blvd.
Included will be free admission to the Museum, star gazing on the front lawn, courtesy of the AV Astronomy Club, local weavers Katie Rivas and Kim Covell who will demonstrate weaving techniques on their looms.
The Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social will be held from 6-8 pm in the back garden area. Admission is $3 per person (ages 12 and older) and $2 per child (11 and younger) and will allow each visitor one serving of ice cream with assorted toppings, lemonade and cookies.
At 9 p.m. in the museum parking lot there will be an outdoor screening of the 1924 Russian silent film, Aelita: Queen of Mars. The film will be accompanied by an original score from musician Mary Zimmerman. Aelita: Queen of Mars is hailed as one of the first science fiction movies, created nearly three years before Fritz Lang’s Metropolis. The movie is based on the Alexei Tolstoy novel of the same name and reveals a very blunt portrayal of the social and political life in Moscow after the Civil War.
Admission to the movie is $3 per person ages 12 and older and free to children 11 and younger. Limited seating will be provided so we welcome you to bring your own chairs. Refreshments will be sold during the movie. Should you want to attend both of our events, there is also a combo pack available which includes admission to both the Ice Cream Social and the Silent Movie. The prices are $5 per person for ages 12 and older and $2 for children 11 and younger.
For additional information call (661)723-6250.
The event, hosted by the City of Lancaster and the Western Hotel Museum will be held Friday, July 25, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Western Hotel Museum, 557 W. Lancaster Blvd.
Included will be free admission to the Museum, star gazing on the front lawn, courtesy of the AV Astronomy Club, local weavers Katie Rivas and Kim Covell who will demonstrate weaving techniques on their looms.
The Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social will be held from 6-8 pm in the back garden area. Admission is $3 per person (ages 12 and older) and $2 per child (11 and younger) and will allow each visitor one serving of ice cream with assorted toppings, lemonade and cookies.
At 9 p.m. in the museum parking lot there will be an outdoor screening of the 1924 Russian silent film, Aelita: Queen of Mars. The film will be accompanied by an original score from musician Mary Zimmerman. Aelita: Queen of Mars is hailed as one of the first science fiction movies, created nearly three years before Fritz Lang’s Metropolis. The movie is based on the Alexei Tolstoy novel of the same name and reveals a very blunt portrayal of the social and political life in Moscow after the Civil War.
Admission to the movie is $3 per person ages 12 and older and free to children 11 and younger. Limited seating will be provided so we welcome you to bring your own chairs. Refreshments will be sold during the movie. Should you want to attend both of our events, there is also a combo pack available which includes admission to both the Ice Cream Social and the Silent Movie. The prices are $5 per person for ages 12 and older and $2 for children 11 and younger.
For additional information call (661)723-6250.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Stay-cation -- vacation close to home
Is the high cost of gasoline causing you to rethink your family vacation? Are you looking for things to do that are closer to home?
The author of the local guidebook for the Antelope Valley has up to date suggestions to save you gas and money.
“It’s amazing to me how much there is to see and do within a short drive,” said Bonnie D. Stone, author of San Andreas Ain’t No Fault of Mine. She will give travel tips during an illustrated lecture, Sunday August 3, 2 p.m. at Waldenbooks, 1100 West Avenue K, Lancaster. For information call 945-9588.
The author of the local guidebook for the Antelope Valley has up to date suggestions to save you gas and money.
“It’s amazing to me how much there is to see and do within a short drive,” said Bonnie D. Stone, author of San Andreas Ain’t No Fault of Mine. She will give travel tips during an illustrated lecture, Sunday August 3, 2 p.m. at Waldenbooks, 1100 West Avenue K, Lancaster. For information call 945-9588.
Monday, June 9, 2008
From Cherries to Cheese at AV Winery Market
From Cherries to Cheese –
The Antelope Valley Winery premiers a Farmer’s Market at the winery, June 21st, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 42041 North 20th Street West, Lancaster.
The vendors include: Scattaglia Farms, Winner Circle Farms, Tapia Bros. Farms, Soledad Goat Cheese, AV Buffalo Company, Heavenly Honey, Hoofnagel Salsa Factory, Lockwood Ranch and Rolling Thunder Ranch Leona Valley Cherries.
For information go to: www.avwinery.com or wines@avwinery.com
The Antelope Valley Winery premiers a Farmer’s Market at the winery, June 21st, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 42041 North 20th Street West, Lancaster.
The vendors include: Scattaglia Farms, Winner Circle Farms, Tapia Bros. Farms, Soledad Goat Cheese, AV Buffalo Company, Heavenly Honey, Hoofnagel Salsa Factory, Lockwood Ranch and Rolling Thunder Ranch Leona Valley Cherries.
For information go to: www.avwinery.com or wines@avwinery.com
Monday, May 26, 2008
McKeon, Boxer protect California Wilderness
McKeon, Boxer Introduce Sweeping Legislation to Protect California Wilderness
Bipartisan Effort Would Protect Nearly Half a Million Acres in Mono, Inyo, and Los Angeles Counties
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-Santa Clarita) introduced legislation Thursday to protect almost half a million acres of wilderness lands in California. U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.
McKeon said: “I am pleased that after years of working with local leaders, wilderness activists, and recreational enthusiasts; we finally have a practical solution to preserving the wild heritage of the 25th congressional district. I also want to thank Senator Boxer for playing such a critical role in crafting legislation that meets the needs of all the key stakeholders. With this legislation, we are increasing economic development by preserving land treasured by many and enhancing recreational opportunities in the area.”
Boxer said: “I am thrilled that Congressman Buck McKeon and I, together with countless local officials and residents, were able to forge a bipartisan compromise to protect these truly spectacular lands. From the majestic High Sierra, to the stunning White Mountains and their ancient Bristlecone Pine forests, to the beautiful northern San Gabriel Mountains, Californians will be able to enjoy this striking beauty forever. We will continue to work together to make sure that this natural legacy can be left to our grandchildren and their grandchildren.”
H.R. 6156, The Eastern Sierra and Northern San Gabriel Wild Heritage Act will give wilderness designations – the highest level of protection and conservation for federal lands – to 472,804* acres of federal public land in California.
Specifically, the bill designates an additional 430,671* acres of wilderness in Mono and Inyo Counties and establishes more than 45 miles of the Owens River Headwaters and Amargosa River as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The bill also designates an additional 42,000 of wilderness in Los Angeles County, and it establishes more than seven miles of Piru Creek as a Wild and Scenic River.
The land protected under the bill includes the White Mountains, America’s largest and highest desert mountain range. The second largest unprotected “roadless” area in the lower 48 states, the Whites are home to the world’s oldest living trees – the ancient Bristlecone Pines – which live almost 5,000 years. It also makes additions to the Hoover Wilderness, a classic High Sierra landscape of deeply carved glacial valleys dotted with tranquil alpine lakes and forests of lodgepole pine. The Amargosa River, which the bill also protects, is the only river flowing into Death Valley, and it sustains biologically rich wetlands and riparian forests as it makes its way through ancient, rugged canyons.
*NOTE: 430,671 acres are designated in Mono and Inyo Counties and 42,133 acres are designated in Los Angeles County for a total of 472,804 acres.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Judy Garland would bring them in
I read with great interest the article about Judy Garland in the Antelope Valley Press. She is one of the all-time, internationally known film greats. As mentioned in the article, she grew up in Lancaster before launching her Hollywood career.
Two of the houses she lived in are up for sale.
As Lancaster considers plans to revitalize its downtown, one of her houses would make an excellent museum that could draw so many visitors into our area.
For example, Judy Garland’s birthplace is in a small town on the outskirts of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Even though it’s in a remote, rural area, John Kelsch, the curator, said they have some 20,000 visitors from around the world and 34 different states each year and it’s only open in the summer months. Several thousand attend the festival the fourth weekend in June to celebrate her June 10th birthday.
Imagine how many would come to the much more accessible Lancaster to see where Judy Garland grew up and lived at the time she was first discovered!
Kelsch said, “Having her home preserved on its original site is invaluable. It’s where she grew up with homes surrounding it of the same era. More people in the world have seen the Wizard of Oz -- some three billion people – than any other movie.”
The small town of Lone Pine is enjoying a renaissance of cowboy movies filmed in their area. They have several hundred movies filmed in the area, yet we have had more than a 1,000 movies shot in the Antelope Valley since Whither Thou Goest was filmed in 1914. Also, we have a number of Hollywood stars who have lived here.
I was thinking how great it would be to showcase “our” Judy Garland and the movies made in “Hollywood’s Back Lot.” The things I’m thinking of include:
· Preserving the Cedar Street House. The Minnesota museum applied for and got grants from the Bob and Delores Hope Foundation, the Streisand Foundation and Alan King Productions. Surely there’s a grant writer available to do the same here.
· Paving a yellow brick road down Cedar Street from Lancaster Boulevard to Avenue J.
· Develop a brochure for a self-guided tour of movie sites.
· Update the city’s websites to include movies shot here.
· And, have a Festival of Movies shot in our area.
Bringing tourists into Downtown Lancaster would have a positive impact on the businesses and the town revenues.
Two of the houses she lived in are up for sale.
As Lancaster considers plans to revitalize its downtown, one of her houses would make an excellent museum that could draw so many visitors into our area.
For example, Judy Garland’s birthplace is in a small town on the outskirts of Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Even though it’s in a remote, rural area, John Kelsch, the curator, said they have some 20,000 visitors from around the world and 34 different states each year and it’s only open in the summer months. Several thousand attend the festival the fourth weekend in June to celebrate her June 10th birthday.
Imagine how many would come to the much more accessible Lancaster to see where Judy Garland grew up and lived at the time she was first discovered!
Kelsch said, “Having her home preserved on its original site is invaluable. It’s where she grew up with homes surrounding it of the same era. More people in the world have seen the Wizard of Oz -- some three billion people – than any other movie.”
The small town of Lone Pine is enjoying a renaissance of cowboy movies filmed in their area. They have several hundred movies filmed in the area, yet we have had more than a 1,000 movies shot in the Antelope Valley since Whither Thou Goest was filmed in 1914. Also, we have a number of Hollywood stars who have lived here.
I was thinking how great it would be to showcase “our” Judy Garland and the movies made in “Hollywood’s Back Lot.” The things I’m thinking of include:
· Preserving the Cedar Street House. The Minnesota museum applied for and got grants from the Bob and Delores Hope Foundation, the Streisand Foundation and Alan King Productions. Surely there’s a grant writer available to do the same here.
· Paving a yellow brick road down Cedar Street from Lancaster Boulevard to Avenue J.
· Develop a brochure for a self-guided tour of movie sites.
· Update the city’s websites to include movies shot here.
· And, have a Festival of Movies shot in our area.
Bringing tourists into Downtown Lancaster would have a positive impact on the businesses and the town revenues.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Spring Tours Begin at Tehachapi Native American Village Site
California State Parks is beginning the spring tour season at Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park in Tehachapi. Although no structures remain on this Kawaiisu Native American village site, the area’s rich history comes alive through the trained volunteer tour guides.
Tomo-Kahni means “winter home” in Kawaiisu, and rock rings mark the locations of many of the kahni’s, or homes, that were built of juniper boughs. Hundreds of mortar holes in the park tell of a very active past. The tour also includes Medicine Cave, Nettle Spring and a cave with pictographs- a sacred place of the Kawaiisu.
Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, the only way to explore the park is through guided tours, which involve a moderately strenuous 3-hour hike. This spring’s tour season will begin Saturday April 12 and continue, weather permitting, through Saturday June 21. Activities begin with an orientation at the Tomo-Kahni Resource Center in Tehachapi at 9 am and last approximately 4 hours, which includes travel time to and from the park (transportation is not provided). Weather at the high-elevation park is variable, so layered clothing is recommended. Adequate drinking water, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes are also necessary.
Tour fee is $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-16 (age 5 and under are free, but not recommended on tours). Tours are limited to 12 people and fill up fast so reservations are highly recommended, for an additional fee of $5 for 1-6 people and $10 for 7-12 people. To make a reservation or for more information, visit the California State Parks office at 43779 15th Street West in Lancaster or call (661) 942-0662, Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Jean Scott, Interpreter I, California State Parks, Mojave Sector/Tehachapi District
Tomo-Kahni means “winter home” in Kawaiisu, and rock rings mark the locations of many of the kahni’s, or homes, that were built of juniper boughs. Hundreds of mortar holes in the park tell of a very active past. The tour also includes Medicine Cave, Nettle Spring and a cave with pictographs- a sacred place of the Kawaiisu.
Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, the only way to explore the park is through guided tours, which involve a moderately strenuous 3-hour hike. This spring’s tour season will begin Saturday April 12 and continue, weather permitting, through Saturday June 21. Activities begin with an orientation at the Tomo-Kahni Resource Center in Tehachapi at 9 am and last approximately 4 hours, which includes travel time to and from the park (transportation is not provided). Weather at the high-elevation park is variable, so layered clothing is recommended. Adequate drinking water, sun protection, and sturdy walking shoes are also necessary.
Tour fee is $4 for adults and $2 for children ages 6-16 (age 5 and under are free, but not recommended on tours). Tours are limited to 12 people and fill up fast so reservations are highly recommended, for an additional fee of $5 for 1-6 people and $10 for 7-12 people. To make a reservation or for more information, visit the California State Parks office at 43779 15th Street West in Lancaster or call (661) 942-0662, Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Jean Scott, Interpreter I, California State Parks, Mojave Sector/Tehachapi District
Signs needed for travelers
When I sat down to write directions to the Poppy Reserve for the article that ran in Antelope Valley Press’ Showcase last week, I was struck with the fact that we are lacking signs.
We don’t have a Welcome to the Antelope Valley, Palmdale, nor Lancaster.
There’s one sign for Lancaster City Hall after you get off the freeway at the Avenue K exit and cross over that very busy intersection at Avenue K. If you glance quickly over to your right, you’ll see the sign for Lancaster pointing to the right as if our city hall was in the parking lot for Toys R Us.
A visitor traveling on the 14 does not see any sign for the Poppy Reserve – and we have the State’s only Poppy Reserve. The only sign you’ll see is after you get off the 14 and are traveling west on I. Then you learn it’s 11 miles to the Poppy Reserve.
And what about the aerospace museums?
No traveler would know about any of them.
Lancaster’s Walk of Honor? Nope, nothing.
Prime Desert Woodland? No.
Palmdale’s Dry Town Water Park? You know the answer.
As you travel north on the 14, of course you’ll see the exit for Edwards Air Force Base. But what about the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound or Willow Springs Raceway?
Nothing.
At least the welcome to Mojave sign tells you that it’s the home of the Voyager.
I know money is tight and there might be restrictions for signs adjacent to the freeway but sometime in the future we need to have the signs and a Visitors’ Center – perhaps in the same area as the office for the Mojave Desert State Park Office on 15th Street in Lancaster. To mitigate costs it could be a joint effort by the cities and the counties.
And it would be a sign for the times.
We don’t have a Welcome to the Antelope Valley, Palmdale, nor Lancaster.
There’s one sign for Lancaster City Hall after you get off the freeway at the Avenue K exit and cross over that very busy intersection at Avenue K. If you glance quickly over to your right, you’ll see the sign for Lancaster pointing to the right as if our city hall was in the parking lot for Toys R Us.
A visitor traveling on the 14 does not see any sign for the Poppy Reserve – and we have the State’s only Poppy Reserve. The only sign you’ll see is after you get off the 14 and are traveling west on I. Then you learn it’s 11 miles to the Poppy Reserve.
And what about the aerospace museums?
No traveler would know about any of them.
Lancaster’s Walk of Honor? Nope, nothing.
Prime Desert Woodland? No.
Palmdale’s Dry Town Water Park? You know the answer.
As you travel north on the 14, of course you’ll see the exit for Edwards Air Force Base. But what about the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound or Willow Springs Raceway?
Nothing.
At least the welcome to Mojave sign tells you that it’s the home of the Voyager.
I know money is tight and there might be restrictions for signs adjacent to the freeway but sometime in the future we need to have the signs and a Visitors’ Center – perhaps in the same area as the office for the Mojave Desert State Park Office on 15th Street in Lancaster. To mitigate costs it could be a joint effort by the cities and the counties.
And it would be a sign for the times.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Tech Trek entices girls to learn about science at summer camp
By Bonnie D. Stone, special to the Antelope Valley Press
15 girls will go to Tech Trek, a science summer camp
The Antelope Valley Branch of the American Association of University Women recognized fifteen girls going to this year’s Tech Trek summer program, their parents as well as the generous donors who have made the program possible on Saturday, April 12, 10:30 a.m., in the Antelope Valley College Board Room (SSV151). The program is open to the public. For information call 947-2947 or 942-7533.
Members of the Society of Women Engineers will speak about their lives as science professionals working for Lockheed Martin. Two of the former Tech Trekkers will briefly share their experiences.
Rachel Thomson, 14, 8th grader at Cole Middle school, went to tech last summer to Whittier College.
“It definitely gave me a new view on what I was going to do with my life,” Rachael said. “It helped me decide what I wanted. I took the bodyworks class as my core class. It assured me how much fun I would have, how science and math would help me. At the moment I’d love to be an orthopedic surgeon.”
For Darcy Dewar, 18-year-old senior at Boron High School, the week she spent at Tech Trek at Whittier College in 2003 confirmed she was on the right track for college.
“For me, that week gave me a taste for college,” Darcy said. “I’ve always been strong in science and math, yet, when we examined a cadaver for example, I found I could handle things better than my peers.” Darcy is aiming for California State University at Northridge with a major in civil engineering.
The meeting will introduce the 15 Trekkers, representing nine different schools, who will be going to camp this summer.
AAUW will also acknowledge their principal aerospace donors: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, JT3 and Spiral Technology. The association also has branch fundraisers throughout the year.
“We have sent 80 campers to Tech Trek since the AAUW-CA program began in 1998,” said Connie Harney, chair for Tech Trek. “The way to apply is for 7th grade public school math or science teachers to nominate girls who show a special interest in math or science by sending or e-mailing their name, address and phone number to me in January of each year - up to four nominees per school.” Email address for nominations is: copa.harney@verizon.net with Tech Trek in the subject line.
Tech Trek is a week-long residential math/science camp for girls entering the eighth grade. Programs are offered at six sites:
California State University, Fresno
Mills College, Oakland
Stanford University, Stanford
University of California, San Diego
Whittier College, Whittier
University of California, Santa Barbara
All sleeping, eating, instructional and recreational facilities are located on the university campus. Each camp features hands-on activities in math and science plus related field trips. The camps also offer many other activities, such as swimming and math/logic related games.
“Science, math, and technology are major fields where women are presently underrepresented but fields where they can and do succeed,” said Harney. “The goal of Tech Trek is to provide a fun yet educational experience that will expand the minds of the middle-school age girls who attend, allow campers to experience hands-on experiments and field trips related to math and science, live on a college campus, get acquainted with other girls who think science is fun, and meet female role models in math, science, technology and other non-traditional careers.”
All six Tech Trek camps increased their attendance to serve over 600 girls in 2007, bringing the total since the first camp in 1998 to well over 3,000 participants. The first groups of Tech Trekkers are now in college. AAUW-CA has kept in touch with these girls and work is underway to find out how this program has influenced them and the choices they will make in their future lives.
Campers are assigned either a math or science core class taught by a credentialed middle school math or science teacher that they attend daily while at camp. To broaden the camp experience, campers select from “core classes" covering a variety of math/science/technology related fields. Evening programs in fields such as astronomy, engineering and environmental studies enhance the learning experience and introduce students to a variety of potential career areas.
While all camps follow the same overall outline of a single math or science core class throughout the week for each camper, each camp also presents a unique experience for campers. For example, core classes at the Whittier Camp have included Biz World, Mystery Powder/CSI, Body Works, Mars City, Robotics, and Brain Function.
Each camp attendee must be recommended by a teacher. Final selection of campers is done by the local AAUW branch. Young women of all ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds are welcome to apply. Girls completing the 7th grade in the spring of each year are targeted for this event.
“We know that girls experience a drop in self-esteem during the middle school years, and even talented girls may stop taking important math and science classes,” Connie noted. “One of AAUW's goals is to break this cycle and help girls realize their full potential.” For further information, see www.aauw-ca.org/program/techtrek.htm .
15 girls will go to Tech Trek, a science summer camp
The Antelope Valley Branch of the American Association of University Women recognized fifteen girls going to this year’s Tech Trek summer program, their parents as well as the generous donors who have made the program possible on Saturday, April 12, 10:30 a.m., in the Antelope Valley College Board Room (SSV151). The program is open to the public. For information call 947-2947 or 942-7533.
Members of the Society of Women Engineers will speak about their lives as science professionals working for Lockheed Martin. Two of the former Tech Trekkers will briefly share their experiences.
Rachel Thomson, 14, 8th grader at Cole Middle school, went to tech last summer to Whittier College.
“It definitely gave me a new view on what I was going to do with my life,” Rachael said. “It helped me decide what I wanted. I took the bodyworks class as my core class. It assured me how much fun I would have, how science and math would help me. At the moment I’d love to be an orthopedic surgeon.”
For Darcy Dewar, 18-year-old senior at Boron High School, the week she spent at Tech Trek at Whittier College in 2003 confirmed she was on the right track for college.
“For me, that week gave me a taste for college,” Darcy said. “I’ve always been strong in science and math, yet, when we examined a cadaver for example, I found I could handle things better than my peers.” Darcy is aiming for California State University at Northridge with a major in civil engineering.
The meeting will introduce the 15 Trekkers, representing nine different schools, who will be going to camp this summer.
AAUW will also acknowledge their principal aerospace donors: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, JT3 and Spiral Technology. The association also has branch fundraisers throughout the year.
“We have sent 80 campers to Tech Trek since the AAUW-CA program began in 1998,” said Connie Harney, chair for Tech Trek. “The way to apply is for 7th grade public school math or science teachers to nominate girls who show a special interest in math or science by sending or e-mailing their name, address and phone number to me in January of each year - up to four nominees per school.” Email address for nominations is: copa.harney@verizon.net with Tech Trek in the subject line.
Tech Trek is a week-long residential math/science camp for girls entering the eighth grade. Programs are offered at six sites:
California State University, Fresno
Mills College, Oakland
Stanford University, Stanford
University of California, San Diego
Whittier College, Whittier
University of California, Santa Barbara
All sleeping, eating, instructional and recreational facilities are located on the university campus. Each camp features hands-on activities in math and science plus related field trips. The camps also offer many other activities, such as swimming and math/logic related games.
“Science, math, and technology are major fields where women are presently underrepresented but fields where they can and do succeed,” said Harney. “The goal of Tech Trek is to provide a fun yet educational experience that will expand the minds of the middle-school age girls who attend, allow campers to experience hands-on experiments and field trips related to math and science, live on a college campus, get acquainted with other girls who think science is fun, and meet female role models in math, science, technology and other non-traditional careers.”
All six Tech Trek camps increased their attendance to serve over 600 girls in 2007, bringing the total since the first camp in 1998 to well over 3,000 participants. The first groups of Tech Trekkers are now in college. AAUW-CA has kept in touch with these girls and work is underway to find out how this program has influenced them and the choices they will make in their future lives.
Campers are assigned either a math or science core class taught by a credentialed middle school math or science teacher that they attend daily while at camp. To broaden the camp experience, campers select from “core classes" covering a variety of math/science/technology related fields. Evening programs in fields such as astronomy, engineering and environmental studies enhance the learning experience and introduce students to a variety of potential career areas.
While all camps follow the same overall outline of a single math or science core class throughout the week for each camper, each camp also presents a unique experience for campers. For example, core classes at the Whittier Camp have included Biz World, Mystery Powder/CSI, Body Works, Mars City, Robotics, and Brain Function.
Each camp attendee must be recommended by a teacher. Final selection of campers is done by the local AAUW branch. Young women of all ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds are welcome to apply. Girls completing the 7th grade in the spring of each year are targeted for this event.
“We know that girls experience a drop in self-esteem during the middle school years, and even talented girls may stop taking important math and science classes,” Connie noted. “One of AAUW's goals is to break this cycle and help girls realize their full potential.” For further information, see www.aauw-ca.org/program/techtrek.htm .
Sunday, March 16, 2008
California desert wildflowers
I never consider myself an expert on wildflowers.
Oh, I know a few – poppies and lupine – are my favorites.
On Saturday we drove out to the Poppy Reserve – the only one in the state of California – to see how the poppies were doing.
“It’s going to be a good year,” said one volunteer. “We can see the flowers all over the hillside. In about two weeks they should be blooming.”
It was a blustery 45 degrees with the infamous wind blowing. So, we got in a good walk, but no flower watching. I’ll be patient.
Then in the early evening, we went to the Prime Desert Woodland in Lancaster, to hear a lecture by Mark Bratton, biologist from Edwards Air Force Base. Along with his Power Point presentation, I took notes – four pages of names of wildflowers I did not know, nor had ever heard of.
Am I now an expert?
Hardly. BUT I am much more knowledgeable about what grows in what I used to think as the sere landscape of the desert.
Mark told us about Goldfields, Desert rhubarb, purple owl’s clover, Red Rock Gold Poppies, the Desert Paintbrush with its red, showy flowers.
The different kinds of cactus included Cotton Top Cactus with its yellowish flowers, the Pencil Cholla, Silver Cholla and the Beavertail Cactus with is magenta flowers.
One lady in the audience kept asking if the flowers being shown were edible. I hope she kept notes on the ones that were really poisonous such as the Jimson Weed.
“The desert wildflowers are interesting,” said Mark, “for they have a pretty big seed bank. Seeds can stay dormant for 10 years. This year many of the plants are smaller because of the lack of rain at the right time.”
It was an interesting evening because Eileen McAllister who manages the Prime Desert Woodlands had samples of the Joshua tree seeds and a cut limb that showed how fragile this member of the lily family really was.
The Prime Desert Woodland has excellent programs of all sorts including lectures on woodland animals, plants and stars. Located at 43201 35th Street West (K-8 & 35th St West), it’s right in the heart of the suburbia. Check out the programs at www.cityoflancasterca.org
Oh, I know a few – poppies and lupine – are my favorites.
On Saturday we drove out to the Poppy Reserve – the only one in the state of California – to see how the poppies were doing.
“It’s going to be a good year,” said one volunteer. “We can see the flowers all over the hillside. In about two weeks they should be blooming.”
It was a blustery 45 degrees with the infamous wind blowing. So, we got in a good walk, but no flower watching. I’ll be patient.
Then in the early evening, we went to the Prime Desert Woodland in Lancaster, to hear a lecture by Mark Bratton, biologist from Edwards Air Force Base. Along with his Power Point presentation, I took notes – four pages of names of wildflowers I did not know, nor had ever heard of.
Am I now an expert?
Hardly. BUT I am much more knowledgeable about what grows in what I used to think as the sere landscape of the desert.
Mark told us about Goldfields, Desert rhubarb, purple owl’s clover, Red Rock Gold Poppies, the Desert Paintbrush with its red, showy flowers.
The different kinds of cactus included Cotton Top Cactus with its yellowish flowers, the Pencil Cholla, Silver Cholla and the Beavertail Cactus with is magenta flowers.
One lady in the audience kept asking if the flowers being shown were edible. I hope she kept notes on the ones that were really poisonous such as the Jimson Weed.
“The desert wildflowers are interesting,” said Mark, “for they have a pretty big seed bank. Seeds can stay dormant for 10 years. This year many of the plants are smaller because of the lack of rain at the right time.”
It was an interesting evening because Eileen McAllister who manages the Prime Desert Woodlands had samples of the Joshua tree seeds and a cut limb that showed how fragile this member of the lily family really was.
The Prime Desert Woodland has excellent programs of all sorts including lectures on woodland animals, plants and stars. Located at 43201 35th Street West (K-8 & 35th St West), it’s right in the heart of the suburbia. Check out the programs at www.cityoflancasterca.org
Friday, March 14, 2008
NAVIGATION AND NAVIGATORS
I got lost Thursday on my way to Challenger Middle School on the far east side of Lancaster.
I got lost because while I looked at the map provided, I didn’t read it. If I had, I wouldn’t have zig and zagged throughout some of the untamed part of the Antelope Valley on streets that dead ended on dirt roads. For you see, not all roads lead to the middle school, only Avenue J and K and Palmdale Boulevard continue all the way out to 170th Street east. By losing my way I gained a perspective on living in the desert.
And yet, the trip to the school was a reminder of all the checking and double checking we did before publishing the guidebook because we didn’t want people to get lost.
My husband and I spent a good couple of months exploring the Antelope Valley making sure that our directions were correct – because we covered the area ourselves to insure that all was as correct as we could make it.
So do read directions, not just glance at them as I did and you’ll go far in life.
I got lost because while I looked at the map provided, I didn’t read it. If I had, I wouldn’t have zig and zagged throughout some of the untamed part of the Antelope Valley on streets that dead ended on dirt roads. For you see, not all roads lead to the middle school, only Avenue J and K and Palmdale Boulevard continue all the way out to 170th Street east. By losing my way I gained a perspective on living in the desert.
And yet, the trip to the school was a reminder of all the checking and double checking we did before publishing the guidebook because we didn’t want people to get lost.
My husband and I spent a good couple of months exploring the Antelope Valley making sure that our directions were correct – because we covered the area ourselves to insure that all was as correct as we could make it.
So do read directions, not just glance at them as I did and you’ll go far in life.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Hidden Shopping Treasurers in the Antelope Valley
Unlike my friends, I was not born with a shopping gene. I do not love to spend all day shopping. However, I do love discovering unique treasures. One of the wonderful things about writing a guidebook is visiting museums, wineries – which all have gift shops – and other unique places to shop.
My only rule of thumb is this: when I deliver books I should not spend more than the payment I’m receiving for the books.
I broke my own rule at the Agua Dulce Winery on Saturday. While waiting for a decision on how many books they were going to buy to stock in their wonderful gift shop, my husband found some honey mustard, cocktail napkins with cute sayings on them, and Debbie insisted that I try their reserve Chardonnay. She was a gracious hostess and I was a grateful sipper.
Let’s just say, I broke my own shopping rule and came home with some yummy Chardonnay.
It’s dangerous to deliver books to the Edwards Air Force Base Museum. Last time, it was my husband who broke the rule. He spotted an aviation “bomber” jacket for our grandson.
At Maturango Museum in Ridgecrest it was the unique silver jewelry that caught my eye and now adorns my neck.
It’s dangerous for me to even go into the Whole Wheatery – lunch always beckons!
At Reagan’s Hallmark I found a folk art angel created by Jim Shore. It’s no longer part of the store display.
You can get lost in Charlie Brown’s. It’s fun to go through the maze to see all that they offer.
At least its safe for me at Perk Place for the price of a blended chai is a whole lot less than the price of a single book.
My only rule of thumb is this: when I deliver books I should not spend more than the payment I’m receiving for the books.
I broke my own rule at the Agua Dulce Winery on Saturday. While waiting for a decision on how many books they were going to buy to stock in their wonderful gift shop, my husband found some honey mustard, cocktail napkins with cute sayings on them, and Debbie insisted that I try their reserve Chardonnay. She was a gracious hostess and I was a grateful sipper.
Let’s just say, I broke my own shopping rule and came home with some yummy Chardonnay.
It’s dangerous to deliver books to the Edwards Air Force Base Museum. Last time, it was my husband who broke the rule. He spotted an aviation “bomber” jacket for our grandson.
At Maturango Museum in Ridgecrest it was the unique silver jewelry that caught my eye and now adorns my neck.
It’s dangerous for me to even go into the Whole Wheatery – lunch always beckons!
At Reagan’s Hallmark I found a folk art angel created by Jim Shore. It’s no longer part of the store display.
You can get lost in Charlie Brown’s. It’s fun to go through the maze to see all that they offer.
At least its safe for me at Perk Place for the price of a blended chai is a whole lot less than the price of a single book.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Classic Car Show & route 66 Celebration
If you love classic cars, it would be worth the trip to Barstow to see the 8th annual Route 66 Mother Road Museum's Classic Car Show, June 14 from 9:00 a.m. to2:00 p.m. at the Historic Harvey House Casa del Desierto, 681 N. First Avenue.
According to Debra Hodkin, curator at the museum, the show is open to all vehicles regardless of the year including stock, classic, unrestored, motorcycles andhot rods. Last year more than 1,000 people participated. The day will include raffle prizes, DJ Key Dog playing popular oldies and appearances by Miss Route Titleholders.
For more information check out the website www.route66museum.org or call760-255-1890.
According to Debra Hodkin, curator at the museum, the show is open to all vehicles regardless of the year including stock, classic, unrestored, motorcycles andhot rods. Last year more than 1,000 people participated. The day will include raffle prizes, DJ Key Dog playing popular oldies and appearances by Miss Route Titleholders.
For more information check out the website www.route66museum.org or call760-255-1890.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Community Concerts
We just renewed our membership in the Antelope Valley Community Concerts Association. For $60 we have been treated to some extraordinary performances right here in our own back yard. As I understand it, next year they’re going to endeavor to present the concerts on a Sunday afternoon. Even better.
When I was putting together the guidebook to the Antelope Valley, I became astonished at all that the community had to offer. I have a section on performing arts that runs four pages and encompasses art, music, drama and dance. There’s the professionals, of course, the big names that are brought in to perform at Lancaster’s Performing Arts and the Palmdale Playhouse. These are usually sold out.
Add to that list the amateur productions such as Cedar Street Players and It’s Only Tuesday productions for an idea of the variety. The AV College Civic Orchestra plus the AV Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale regularly schedule performances that are open to the public.
We’re living in a happening place!
When I was putting together the guidebook to the Antelope Valley, I became astonished at all that the community had to offer. I have a section on performing arts that runs four pages and encompasses art, music, drama and dance. There’s the professionals, of course, the big names that are brought in to perform at Lancaster’s Performing Arts and the Palmdale Playhouse. These are usually sold out.
Add to that list the amateur productions such as Cedar Street Players and It’s Only Tuesday productions for an idea of the variety. The AV College Civic Orchestra plus the AV Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale regularly schedule performances that are open to the public.
We’re living in a happening place!
Friday, January 18, 2008
SIERRA CLUB AND THE WILDERNESS
I love going out and talking to groups because I always learn something new. That was the case with my talk to the Sierra Club in Palmdale. My talk was titled, “Get off the Beaten Track” and addressed places to get in a walk or hike where you would get a chance to explore all that our wonderful Antelope Valley offers.
Afterwards, I met a representative from Buck McKeon’s office who told us about his effort to save the wild places. It’s something we can all get behind. As I learn more, I’ll post it here. But in the meantime, you can go to www.friendsoftheriver.org/EasternSierra to learn more.
On a lighter note, one of the ladies told me of a tee-shirt slogan I’ll certainly embrace. She’s trying to find the author – because it would be a perfect shirt for the AV -- St. Andreas, protect us from our faults!
Afterwards, I met a representative from Buck McKeon’s office who told us about his effort to save the wild places. It’s something we can all get behind. As I learn more, I’ll post it here. But in the meantime, you can go to www.friendsoftheriver.org/EasternSierra to learn more.
On a lighter note, one of the ladies told me of a tee-shirt slogan I’ll certainly embrace. She’s trying to find the author – because it would be a perfect shirt for the AV -- St. Andreas, protect us from our faults!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
OFF TO THE OPERA!
It’s my husband whose life-long love of the opera has swept me in his wake to see performances in Honolulu, Charleston and now, of all places, Lancaster.
We’ve gone to the Desert Opera Productions since we moved here in 1987. Yet, in spite of the name, the local company has produced light opera, operettas and wonderful musicals.
Two weeks ago I fell in love with opera through the live New York Metropolitan broadcasts at our local Cinemark theater. I loved seeing the faces on the big screen – not through the opera glasses. I loved seeing close-ups of the gorgeous costumes. Combining everything including the voices, the staging, the costumes, the first performance of Romeo and Juliette was absolutely glorious. I’m hooked.
The second one was a gruesome retelling of the Grimm fairy tale Hansel and Gretel by Humperdinck.
Coming up will be MacBeth, Manon Lescaut, Peter Grimes, Tristan und Isolde, La Boheme and La Fille du Regiment.
Catch me if you can at any and all of these. I’m hooked!
We’ve gone to the Desert Opera Productions since we moved here in 1987. Yet, in spite of the name, the local company has produced light opera, operettas and wonderful musicals.
Two weeks ago I fell in love with opera through the live New York Metropolitan broadcasts at our local Cinemark theater. I loved seeing the faces on the big screen – not through the opera glasses. I loved seeing close-ups of the gorgeous costumes. Combining everything including the voices, the staging, the costumes, the first performance of Romeo and Juliette was absolutely glorious. I’m hooked.
The second one was a gruesome retelling of the Grimm fairy tale Hansel and Gretel by Humperdinck.
Coming up will be MacBeth, Manon Lescaut, Peter Grimes, Tristan und Isolde, La Boheme and La Fille du Regiment.
Catch me if you can at any and all of these. I’m hooked!
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