Tehachapi News

CALM is pulling out all the stops for its 25th Birthday Bash on May 17 with a line-up of entertaining presentations, games and activities that will leave visitors asking for more. The popular zoo, botanical garden and natural history museum, located between Lake Ming and Hart Park in northeast Bakersfield, will be open from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., honoring the major founders whose vision and hard physical work made CALM a reality. Regular admission fees apply, and it might be time to consider getting a family membership, as CALM members are admitted free with their membership and identification card.

You will not want to miss Steve Martin’s Working Wildlife, featuring animal actors that have appeared in movies, television and commercials. Based in Frazier Park, Working Wildlife also has an extensive educational outreach program. Docents and the zoo education department have other entertaining and educational wildlife presentations planned with CALM’s own ambassador animals.    

The Central Valley Children’s Railroad awaits to take the whole family on a fun trip around CALM for only $1 per person. There will be a bounce house, costumed characters, face painting, children’s crafts, games, food and beverage booths and an opportunity drawing for great prizes. Limited edition 25th birthday commemorative treasures will be stocked in the gift store with a bounty of nature-related apparel, toys, books, games and jewelry.

Robotic pal, Buddy, will be helping the Bakersfield Police Department with its K-9 demonstrations. Smokey Bear has found time on his busy schedule to make a special appearance. More than 30 organizations will also be partying with guests, passing along information and give-a-ways.

For more information, call CALM (661) 872-2256.

CALM provides residence to native animals that because of injury or abandonment can no longer survive on their own in the wild