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A key concern for Kiwanis is the well-being of children, and they were interested to know how Measure R would improve outdated recreational facilities. Therefore, they invited Michelle Vance and Laura Lynne Wyatt to tell them about the measure which would upgrade and renovate existing parks, grounds and recreational facilities in the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District. The measure is on the November ballot and must pass by a 2/3 majority.

Vance said TVRPD was formed in 1959 and present facilities were built in the 1930s and in the 1970s. They are now outdated and require high maintenance. She outlined plans, which will include construction that will benefit all people from children to senior citizens. Plans include two types of swimming pools, a gym, regulation baseball fields, a senior center and a children's learning center.

She said recreation is valuable because it promotes good economy. Local business will profit from this construction because it will enable Tehachapi to host tournaments and conferences for which there is currently no space large enough for crowds. She said there are frequent requests from companies that would like to hold meetings here.

Wyatt explained they have a professional business plan which shows a 93 percent cost recovery. She explained the cost per $100,000 of annual assessed valuation will be about $3.25 per month. This is a small amount when you consider the many people who will benefit for years to come if Measure R passes.

Kiwanis members thanked Vance and Wyatt for their efforts to improve programs and facilities for the children of Tehachapi. Kiwanis President Ron Gaiser encouraged the membership to invite others to join the club which meets Wednesdays at noon at Gold Mountain Sports Tavern in Great Oaks Plaza which is on 202 near Tehachapi-Woodford Road.