Dear Kern River Courier,
The Kern River Paiute Council at the Nuui Cunni Native American Cultural Center (French Gulch) owes thanks to the many people that helped with the Kern River Valley Open Studio and Gallery Art Tour in April. Without the help of so many dedicated volunteers it would not have been the success it was.

Our Council: Arlene Apalatea, Marilyn Olsen, Patricia Henry, Dane Liebel, Ray & Nori Ellerman, and Samantha Lambert.

Our regular volunteers: Susie & Jim Croy, Esther & Bill Warnock, Patrick Henry, Tim Lambert, Vern, Ramona, Nita, & Ray Clark, Skip Knotts, Carol Wermuth, Terri Gallion, Rena Wiggins, and Louise Akers. Everyone was of great assistance.

Special thanks to Owens Valley Career & Development Center and KRV Art Association for their support and input.

Thank you all.  
Kern River Paiute Council
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Dear Kern River Courier,
Why do people who install ”insecurity lights” always mount them on their homes pointing them off their own property?  Forgive me but this is pretzel logic!

If you feel the need and are going to exercise your right to illuminate your house wouldn’t you mount them so that they faced your own home? Of course not! Because if you mounted them facing your home it would drive you and your family crazy ... instead of mine!

My brothers and I were raised by loving and God-fearing parents. Theytaught us “Our rights ended where someone else's begin.” We were also taught that nothing is as powerful as the power of prayer and faith. I believe that prayer can move mountains and that faith is the evidence of things yet unseen. I asked

The Lord-Almighty for guidance and understanding why someone who could be your neighbor would dig their heels in when they knew their own actions weere adversely affecting the quality of their neighbors’ lives.

I reached out for help from our local Kern County Supervisor, Jon McQuiston. I contacted Judy Hyatt, Mr. McQuiston’s assistant. During our discussion Judy informed me that before the year’s end the Kern River Valley was going to have a Dark Sky Policy, a lighting ordinance.

I wait and pray that The Lord of Hosts will soften my neighbor’s heart and that he would willfully adjust his nighttime lighting needs because he wants to be a good neighbor and not because it will soon be enforceable by Kern County Code.

Donn Matlack
Wofford Heights