Bakersfield Life

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The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is hosting the 2nd Annual Tomo-Kahni Benefit Auction on March 15th from 2-6 pm, to support the Tomo-Kahni Resource Center in Tehachapi and other interpretive programs and activities in Antelope Valley’s California State Parks.

The Resource Center, located on East F Street in downtown Tehachapi, actively promotes information, school programs, and community workshops relating to Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park and the Kawaiisu Indians of Tehachapi.  By working with the few remaining decedents and elders of the Kawaiisu tribe, they have made tremendous contributions to the preservation of the Kawaiisu language and culture, such as helping to publish a dictionary of the Kawaiisu language. 

The primary funding source for the Resource Center is the springtime operation of the Poppy Reserve gift shop benefiting the non-profit Poppy Reserve/Mojave Desert Interpretive Association (PRMDIA), which also funds local California State Parks educational programs, community events, volunteer activities, and interpretive materials.  Unfortunately, due to the disappointing wildflower bloom California experienced over the last two years, attendance was down and not enough revenue was generated to continue support of the Resource Center.  Last year’s successful fundraiser saved the Tehachapi facility, but continued assistance is needed to cover operating expenses, which are not eligible for grant funding. 

The silent auction will feature an exciting variety of local gift items and services.  The event will also feature live entertainment, hors d’ oeuvres, guided tours of the Reserve and more.  The Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center will be open with wildflower and wildlife displays, Jane S. Pinheiro’s watercolor painting gallery, and a gift shop featuring clothing, posters, books, Native American games and other items from the Poppy Reserve and Tomo-Kahni Resource Center.  These items not only make fabulous gifts; the proceeds directly benefit the local California State Parks educational programs and activities for the community, and are tax-deductible.

Donations for the silent auction are being taken; please call (661) 942-0662 or email jscott@parks.ca.gov if you have an item to contribute!