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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260327T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260327T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T073008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T073008Z
UID:103927-1774607400-1774611000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children’s Hour: “Wildflowers”
DESCRIPTION:See an impressive array of wildflowers all in one location. \nI hope you have had the opportunity to venture outside and see the wildflowers blooming in the Rademacher Hills\, Short Canyon\, and other areas. As of February 25\, many wildflowers are blooming. It’s a different year for wildflowers due to the wet fall and winter\, above-average temperatures in December and January\, followed by more rain and freezing temperatures in February. Early in December\, many plants took the opportunity to grow\, bloom\, and produce seeds while the weather permitted. It was a gamble\, but many plants have succeeded in doing just that. \nThe Lacy Phacelia wildflowers are flourishing in the Rademacher Hills. Go to the end of College Heights Blvd\, park in the dirt parking lot\, open your car door\, and take in the sweet aroma of Lacy Phacelia. This plant is growing in profusion in and around the creosote bushes. In some areas\, plants are reaching two feet tall! This appears to be Lacy Phacelia’s year to dominate the landscape in the Rademachers. The related phacelia\, Yellow Throats or Fremont’s Phacelia\, is soaking in the sun on the south sides of creosote bushes in the Rademachers. \nBrown-eyed primroses are also prominent in the Rademachers and just about every other place I’ve looked. Chia is another plant that is growing and thriving everywhere. The bright yellow Coreopsis is creating bright spots of vibrant color\, and the small yellow goldfields are starting to give small areas of a hillside a tinge of yellow. \nThe wildflowers are here and will continue to grow\, bloom\, and seed. We expect a wonderful variety of wildflowers for the exhibit weekend. \nWe will have three presentations over the Wildflower Exhibit weekend: \nFriday\, April 10\, at 5:30 pm\, Glenn Harris (provide info) will give a presentation on “Why Plants Grow Where They Do.” Glenn\, a retired BLM employee\, now volunteers with the Maturango Museum\, giving environmental education talks to children and adults. \nSaturday\, April 11\, at 2 pm\, Allison Autry\, PhD candidate\, studies orchids that grow on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada and riparian enclaves on the Mojave Desert. Her presentation is titled\, “An Introduction to the Native Orchids of California and Nevada\, with a special focus on the Southeastern Sierra and the Mojave Desert.” Did you know that orchids grow in the eastern Sierra Nevada and the Mojave Desert? \nSunday\, April 12\, at 2 pm\, Dylan Layfield will give a presentation on the Wildflowers That Grow in Sand Canyon. This eastern Sierra Nevada canyon is located north of Grapevine Canyon. Dylan has studied the wildflowers of this canyon for many years. Dylan works at China Lake.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-wildflowers/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260319T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260319T190000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T072702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T072702Z
UID:103925-1773946800-1773946800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Kerncrest Audubon Presents MOTUS
DESCRIPTION:MOTUS is an international network of antenna stations to detect signals of animals carrying tiny transmitters called tags. The data collected from these stations are collected and made available for studies of how animals (mostly birds and bats) move about the Earth. Kerncrest Audubon and the Maturango Museum have installed a MOTUS antenna array at the museum. \nThe presentation by Dr. Patrick Lorch of the Southern Sierra Research Station is titled “Using Modern Tech to Track Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoos in The Kern River Valley”. \nAfter a decade doing academic research and teaching\, that included radio tracking insects with the USDA\, Pat moved to working with the Motus wildlife tracking system. After setting up over 58 Motus stations\, Pat has tons of experience with planning and constructing Motus stations as well as with data management and analysis. At SSRS\, he’s leading our Motus station projects\, assisting with data analysis\, and grant applications aimed at strengthening the role the station plays in regional conservation.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/kerncrest-audubon-presents-motus/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260315T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260315T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T072344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T072344Z
UID:103923-1773583200-1773594000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Tami Force presents “Nevada Ghost Towns”
DESCRIPTION:Tami Force is an explorer\, historian\, author\, and content creator of the Eastern Sierra region. Her presentation will cover topics such as: The Eastern Sierra’s hundreds of ghost towns\, mining camps\, stage and railroad stations\, and mines. Visitors and history usually focus on a handful of ghost towns\, such as Bodie\, Cerro Gordo\, and Randsburg. Explorers and historians have forgotten the smaller sites\, their ruins and history hidden for over a century in the desert. The tales of the lesser-known ghost towns put the authors of dime novels to shame. Each story is unique\, showing that sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. Learn about these unusual ghost towns and the forgotten lives of those who lived in the Old West and made the Eastern Sierra what it is today. How were German U-Boats related to Atolia? Who was the “Human Mole” and how did he earn that name? What previous cargo did the burros Jennie and Lupe carry to the Clair mine? What happened to those in Johannesburg who forgot their phone calls were on a party line? Tami has two books: “In the Shadow of the Sierra\, Ghost towns & Historical Sites of the Eastern Sierra Northern Region” and “In the Glow of the Sierra\, Ghost towns & Historical Sites of the Eastern Sierra Southern Region” and will have copies for sale and a book signing after her presentation. Tami curates an interactive ghost town map online at nvtami.com/nevada-ghost-towns-map/ and can be found on facebook at NVTami.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/tami-force-presents-nevada-ghost-towns/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260314T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260314T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T071823Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T071823Z
UID:103921-1773486000-1773496800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Conservation in the IWV Event 2026: Pollinators\, Desert Gardens and Water  Free Saturday
DESCRIPTION:Meet some of our local conservation organizations\, pick up some garden tips\, learn about our local insects\, plants and other wildlife. We have wonderful ideas to share with you! \nIn our local desert bio-diversity we have quite an abundance of wildlife and plants in our diverse range of habitats. While most of our human residents see mainly the creosote shrubland of the valley floor\, we are actually on the boundary edges of three converging eco-regions; technically Ridgecrest is in northwest corner of the Mojave Desert\, while we also border with the Great Basin and Range to the north and the Sierra Nevada mountains to the west. The diverse ecosystems found in and around the Indian Wells Valley include the Western Mojave Mountain Woodlands\, Shrublands\, Basins\, Arid Steppes\, Eastern Sierra Lower and Upper Montane Forests\, Great Basin and Mojavean Slopes. \nAccording to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, endangered species of the valley and nearby mountains include the Fisher\, Sierra Nevada Red Fox\, California Condor\, Inyo California Towhee\, Western Snowy Plover\, Monarch Butterfly\, Mojave Desert Tortoise\, and an ice-age remnant fish the Mohave Tui Chub. \nWhile there are no designated critical habitats for endangered species on the valley floor\, there are in the surrounding mountain areas as well as seven Federal Wilderness areas which help conserve wildlands for many vital species: Kiawah\, Owens Peak\, El Paso Mountains\, Chimney Peak\, Sacatar Trail\, South Sierra\, and Coso Range. In addition\, as the Indian Wells Valley is a part of the Pacific Flyway bird migratory path in the spring and fall\, The Audubon Society has designated some of the riparian desert/montane ecosystems as “Important Bird Areas”. These areas include: Argus Range – South\, Southern Sierra Desert Canyons\, and three seasonally riparian North Mojave Dry Lakes. \nSurprisingly\, our high desert valley is the seasonal home to thousands of shorebirds\, marsh birds and other waterfowl during the winter. Ever popular\, the Snow Geese over-winters here with the average flock size of about 1\,700\, according to the local Kerncrest Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count numbers since 1987. Some of these Snow Geese travel from as far away as their nesting area on Wrangel Island\, Siberia – over 3\,200 miles one way. They come for our park’s grass and mild winter\, likely due to the loss of 90% of California’s original wetlands and marsh grass of the northern and central valleys since 1920. \nOther species native to our area which are important keystone species include the Creosote Bush and the Joshua tree. Unarguably the long-lived Mojave Creosote Bush is the predominant shrub of the Mojave Desert\, and although it is not considered a valuable food source\, it is one of the few plants available for shelter\, shade and good burrowing sites for our threatened/endangered species such as the Mojave Desert Tortoise\, Mohave Ground Squirrel and Burrowing Owl. (The oldest creosote known as “The King Clone” of Lucerne Valley\, has been dated to 11\,700 years old!) The Joshua tree\, an important shade\, shelter and nesting source\, is losing habitat rapidly due to rising temperatures\, increasing wildfires and urban sprawl. We are fortunate to have them in our local canyons at higher elevations\, as they are a great source of supporting habitat and even food sources for some species like the Cactus Wrens\, Yucca Moths and Kangaroo Rats. \nAll these local species of flora and fauna depend on us to be good stewards of our environment. What benefits do we gain from a local biodiverse and healthy ecosystem? The less obvious services which we should ponder include cleaner air and less dust pollution\, recycling of waste and nutrients for healthy soil\, healthier water filtered at depth in our aquifer\, regeneration of oxygen even from micro-soil cyanobacteria – the list goes on and on. This leads us to water conservation\, along with a host of other mindful habits we human neighbors can do to help nature. Recycle/reuse\, compost\, plant native plants\, support pollinators by eliminating or minimizing garden toxins\, provide wildlife nesting\, food\, shelter resources and reducing hazards where possible such as covering trash against predatory animals such as Ravens\, minimizing outdoor cat and dog threats\, and over-bright white night lighting which disrupts night migrations. \nBack to our own water – we need to support water conservation in our high desert area for human consumption – but our local springs also need it to support nature. \nThis year we are featuring a guest speaker focused on sustainable living with local insects\, bee researchers from Cerro Coso Community College\, and garden tours by the Maturango staff showcasing native plants and the new pollinator habitat.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/conservation-in-the-iwv-event-2026-pollinators-desert-gardens-and-water-free-saturday/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260307T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260307T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T071125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T071125Z
UID:103916-1772895600-1772902800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Debbie Newton’s Art Gallery Exhibit: “Seeing Through My Eyes”
DESCRIPTION:“Seeing Through My Eyes”\nArtist Debbie Newton moved to Indian Wells Valley as a youngster in 1958.She went to work for the China Lake Naval Base in 1980 in the Contracts Department where she worked in various positions until she retired in 2010. In the late 80’s she started taking art classes offered on base then expanded lessons offered locally\, in Bishop and other areas. She continues to attend in- person workshops and attends many live/online classes to improve her artwork. She has attended workshops in France\, Santa Fe\, San Diego\, North Carolina\, Maine\, San Francisco and Los Angeles. She started her artistic journey oil painting and has continued that journey adding watercolor\, acrylic and pastel along the way. After her retirement\, she focused on her art\, painting daily. She fell in love with pastels when she took a workshop through the Desert Artists’ League in Ridgecrest. Although she still works in oil\, acrylic and watercolor she prefers to paint in pastel. Her subject matter includes traditional landscape\, seascape\, floral\, and still life but her favorite subjects are animals\, mainly birds. She works\nmostly from her studio because\, as she likes to say\, the desert is either too hot\, too cold\, or too windy for painting outside. She works from photos from her travels\, including trips to Africa\, England\, Southern France\, Canada\, Alaska\, Hawaii and most of continental USA. She is a member of the Desert Artists’ League and the Kern River Valley Art Association. \n 
URL:https://maturango.org/event/debbie-newtons-art-gallery-exhibit-seeing-through-my-eyes/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260307T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260307T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260206T004432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T004432Z
UID:103814-1772874000-1772895600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Searles Valley Historical Society Museums Field Trip
DESCRIPTION:Most of these museums are “appointment only” but we’re in luck! We’ve made the arrangements to visit each of them. We’ll be visiting the Fire Museum\, History House\, Trona Railway Museum and Caboose\, Archives\, and the Old Guest House Museum. Docents will be on-hand at each location to guide us through their rich history and their exhibits. Want to peruse at your own pace? You can do that as well during the time we are at each area. \nOur journey will start at the Maturango Museum and we’ll drive over to Trona through Poison Canyon. By the way\, did you know that the “real name” of Poison Canyon is Salt Wells Canyon? \nWe’ll make a brief stop at the Trona Pinnacles turn off to view two monuments; John Searles’ Freight Wagon Route Monument and the Epsom Salts Monorail Monument. If you want to learn more about the Epsom Salts Monorail\, Maturango Museum has a great book on this subject as well as a great display in the Museum. \nFrom there we’ll continue to the Fire Museum. Inside this museum are two antique fire engines\, a 1924 Stutz and a 1938 Ahren-Fox. Displays in the Fire Museum include 20 photographs of major fires in Argus\, Borosolvay\, and Trona and other fire memorabilia. \nWe’ll then make a quick stop at the Trona Rest Stop to take care of business and proceed to the History House\, Caboose\, and Railway Museum. \nThe History House is one of the oldest residential houses in Trona (built around 1920) and is a treasure trove of items from yesteryear. The Trona Railway Museum displays artifacts from the Trona Railway and the Caboose will be open to those able to navigate the steep stairs to get in and out. \nBe sure to bring a picnic lunch. We’ll head over to the Archives when we are done at the History House. They have tables in the Archive building where we can eat our lunch. Before or after you eat your lunch\, you can peruse through the Archives. There is so much to see! If you prefer to eat at one of the local restaurants in Trona\, we’ll have a “meet time” at our final stop. \nAfter lunch we’ll head to our final stop\, the Old Guest House Museum. This building was built around 1917 and is one of the oldest buildings in Searles Valley. Originally it was built as four apartments and was remodeled as a guest house with twelve rooms for visitors to Trona. The twelve rooms show events in Searles Valley from the early mining days to present plant ownership. Since this is our final stop\, once you have finished viewing all the cool “stuff”\, you can head back\, we just ask that you let the Leader of the Field Trip know you are leaving. \n9am: meet at the Maturango Museum for check in. Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. Car caravan will be organized and for those that want to carpool\, we’ll figure it out there. \nThe cost is $35 for adult museum members ($60 for 2 adults)\, $40 adult non-members ($70 for 2). No Pets. Sign up at shop.maturango.org or come to the Gift Store. \nBe sure you have enough gas (less than 100 miles round trip)\, car and tires in good running order. \nUsual dress code for field trips applies: hat\, sunscreen\, comfortable walking shoes\, layered clothing\, water\, camera (although some of the buildings ask no photographs). It is better to have these items and not need them\, than need them and not have them. \nBring a picnic lunch to eat while we are at the Archives. \nCancellation Policy: If the Museum cancels your trip\, you will be given a full refund or you may transfer the money to a different trip. No cash refunds will be given if you cancel.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/searles-valley-historical-society-museums-field-trip/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
CATEGORIES:Museum Events,Tours and Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/trona.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260301T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260301T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260301T070206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T195357Z
UID:103914-1772370000-1772373600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Maturango Museum’s Annual Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Gather with your friends at the Museum\, meet our new Board members and our Staff. \nWe hope to see you there! \n2025 Annual Report
URL:https://maturango.org/event/maturango-museums-annual-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260227T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260227T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260201T040107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T040107Z
UID:103812-1772188200-1772191800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children’s Hour: Spiders - Spinners of Webs and Catchers of Bugs
DESCRIPTION:What would it be like to walk on eight legs; to make many kinds of webs\, some beautiful and some messy looking; and even to spin a silk line to “balloon” through the air from one place to another? Through the story “The Very Busy Spider” by Eric Carle\, other stories\, spidery action songs\, and a craft\, the children will learn about some of these tiny crawly creatures. Children’s Hour is a free program for young children and their families offered from September to May.\nBegun by a group of volunteer docents in 2009\, it continues to encourage both learning and appreciation of books\, and the Mojave desert/nearby mountains. Each program theme is explored through storybooks\, songs\, action activities\, crafts and natural history exhibits from the docents’ collection. Curiosity and questions from children are encouraged! \nMore information about Children’s Hour can be found on www.Maturango.org or by calling 760-375-6900. The museum is open every day (except major holidays) Monday through Saturday\, 10:00 to 5:00 and Sunday noon – 4pm.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-spiders-spinners-of-webs-and-catchers-of-bugs/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260214T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260214T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260201T035542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T035542Z
UID:103810-1771066800-1771077600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Free Saturday: Make Valentine Cards
DESCRIPTION:The special challenge this year is to make and write a Valentine to yourself: I will hold them for approximately one month and then mail them. You’ll get a special greeting from your “past” self. You do not need to do the challenge\, just make whatever tickles your fancy. Lots of supplies will be available. \nAll ages are welcome with adult supervision.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/free-saturday-make-valentine-cards/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260124T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260125T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260110T222223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T201804Z
UID:103647-1769281200-1769349600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:High Desert Teachers Music Association Concert
DESCRIPTION:Music Taking Flight:\nA Music Teachers’ Concert\nSaturday January 24\, 7pm\nSunday January 25\, 2pm\n 
URL:https://maturango.org/event/high-desert-teachers-music-association-concert/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/HDMTA-logo_2.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260118T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260118T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260103T090319Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T185027Z
UID:103605-1768744800-1768752000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Mark Pahuta’s Photo Exhibit “Ridgecrest and the Eastern Sierra”
DESCRIPTION:Opening Reception Sunday January 18\, 2pm\nStill photographs of Ridgecrest and the local area. \nA photographic exhibit of current locations from the viewpoint of a photographer. \nMark received a B.A. in History at Humboldt State University and an M.F.A. in Cinema at the University of Southern CA. A filmmaker and still photographer\, he came to the Indian Wells Valley in 1976 for a career of more than 40 years at China Lake in the Film and Video Branch. Many of his photographs are in the permanent collection of the Maturango Museum. The Museum has also published his audiovisual productions\, “Between Two Worlds: Rock Art of the Cosos” and “Indian Wells Valley: Somewhere on the Edge of Nowhere. Mark has created numerous video productions for other organizations\, including the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce. The Museum has published two books\, “Ridgecrest Retrospective” and “High Desert Double Exposure” with Mark as photographer. Recently\, Mark Pahuta’s “Hidden Ridgecrest” video series has been very well enjoyed.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/mark-pahutas-photo-exhibit-ridgecrest/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260118T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260304T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260113T185414Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T185414Z
UID:103698-1768737600-1772643600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Mark Pahuta’s Photo Exhibit “Ridgecrest and the Eastern Sierra”
DESCRIPTION:Still photographs of Ridgecrest and the local area.\nA photographic exhibit of current locations from the viewpoint of a photographer.\nMark received a B.A. in History at Humboldt State University and an M.F.A. in Cinema at the University of Southern CA. A filmmaker and still photographer\, he came to the Indian Wells Valley in 1976 for a career of more than 40 years at China Lake in the Film and Video Branch. Many of his photographs are in the permanent collection of the Maturango Museum. The Museum has also published his audiovisual productions\, “Between Two Worlds: Rock Art of the Cosos” and “Indian Wells Valley: Somewhere on the Edge of Nowhere. Mark has created numerous video productions for other organizations\, including the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce. The Museum has published two books\, “Ridgecrest Retrospective” and “High Desert Double Exposure” with Mark as photographer. Recently\, Mark Pahuta’s “Hidden Ridgecrest” video series has been very well enjoyed.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/mark-pahutas-photo-exhibit-ridgecrest-2/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum Coso Room\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260116T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260116T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20260103T091037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T010021Z
UID:103607-1768559400-1768563000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children’s Hour: “Winds\, Clouds\, and High-Flying Birds”
DESCRIPTION:Young children and their families are invited to help us welcome the new year with a Children’s Hour titled “Wind\, Clouds\, and High-Flying Birds.”\nYoung children of our Indian Wells Valley have likely all felt the force of strong winter winds\, blowing fast and fierce! In the featured program\, creative actions for kids will accompany stories about wind\, storms\, and clouds with their imagination-stirring shapes transforming the sky. Birds such as snow geese come to live for the winter in our valley\, while other kinds of birds pause only to eat and rest during the autumn as they migrate further south. On their journeys they can be seen soaring high along uplifting currents of air\, as naturally as children running along a sidewalk pretending to fly! Children’s Hour\, begun by a group of volunteer docents in 2009\, continues to encourage both learning and appreciation of books\, the Mojave desert and nearby mountains. Each program theme is explored through storybooks\, songs\, action activities\, crafts and natural history exhibits from the docents’ collection. \nCuriosity and questions from children are warmly received!!\nWe hope to see you for this free\, educational and monthly event! Information about Children’s Hour can\nbe found on Maturango.org or by calling 760-375-6900.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-winds-clouds-and-high-flying-birds/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260111T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260111T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251224T232738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251224T232759Z
UID:103562-1768140000-1768147200@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Chasing Spring on the Pacific Crest Trail
DESCRIPTION:Back by popular demand\, Bob Steele is presenting  “Chasing Spring on the Pacific Crest Trail” \nIn 2016\, Bob and Susan Steele from Inyokern thru-hiked the 2\,650-mile-long Pacific Crest Trail with a different goal than anyone else – counting all the birds. Their trek passed through magnificent scenery and diverse habitats\, affording the chance to see birds moving northbound during spring migration to summer breeding locations. With stunning photography and storytelling\, this afternoon presentation with guest speaker Bob Steele will take you along the spine of the West Coast mountain ranges\, winding from Mexico to Canada\, with a keen eye toward natural history\, flowers\, and birds. Share in the joy and challenge of backpacking 140 days on one of the most famous trails in the Western Hemisphere\, and glimpse some of the 200 species of birds and many flowers found along the way.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/chasing-spring-on-the-pacific-crest-trail-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260110T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260110T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251206T214620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T214900Z
UID:103513-1768050000-1768060800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Free Second Saturday Speaker: Sean Scruggs
DESCRIPTION:The Eastern Kern County Resource Conservation District (EKCRCD) is pleased to welcome Sean Scruggs\, a Piute Native tribal representative from the Fort Independence Reservation\, as our Second Saturday Speaker. Sean will share insights on the cultural importance of nature within his community. \nEKCRCD is launching a Certified Resilient Backyard Habitat program in Ridgecrest to encourage eco-friendly\, wildlife-supportive\, and sustainable gardening practices. This talk is part of a planned series of speakers and workshops connected to the program. \nAll members of the community are invited to attend. We hope to see you there!
URL:https://maturango.org/event/free-second-saturday-speaker-sean-scruggs/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251228T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251228T150000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251206T180958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T180958Z
UID:103504-1766930400-1766934000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Video Screening: Hidden Ridgecrest 7
DESCRIPTION:This upcoming video presentation features several engaging stories\, with the central narrative focusing on the history of local fire departments and the experience of serving as a volunteer firefighter. This primary story is inspired by the Historical Society publication by Tex Hoppus\, A History of Fire Stations in the Indian Wells Valley. \nIn addition to the main feature the program includes a few unexpected stories\, some even introduced by “surprise presenters.” \nThe video runs just under one hour. Producers Mark Pahuta and John Daly will be in attendance to offer brief remarks before the screening and to answer audience questions afterward. \nAdmission is free however\, seating is limited.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/video-screening-hidden-ridgecrest-7/
CATEGORIES:Museum Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251224T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251224T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251224T232420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251224T232420Z
UID:103560-1766563200-1766595600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Chasing Spring on the Pacific Crest Trail
DESCRIPTION:Back by popular demand\, Bob Steele is presenting  “Chasing Spring on the Pacific Crest Trail” \nIn 2016\, Bob and Susan Steele from Inyokern thru-hiked the 2\,650-mile-long Pacific Crest Trail with a different goal than anyone else – counting all the birds. Their trek passed through magnificent scenery and diverse habitats\, affording the chance to see birds moving northbound during spring migration to summer breeding locations. With stunning photography and storytelling\, this afternoon presentation with guest speaker Bob Steele will take you along the spine of the West Coast mountain ranges\, winding from Mexico to Canada\, with a keen eye toward natural history\, flowers\, and birds. Share in the joy and challenge of backpacking 140 days on one of the most famous trails in the Western Hemisphere\, and glimpse some of the 200 species of birds and many flowers found along the way.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/chasing-spring-on-the-pacific-crest-trail/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251220T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251220T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251201T165321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T165321Z
UID:103457-1766228400-1766239200@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Winter Solstice
DESCRIPTION:  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nTHE WINTER SOLSTICE IS COMING! \nThe shortest day of the year is coming up! This day marks the turning point from the days getting shorter to days getting longer. Due to the Earth’s axial tilt\, the northern hemisphere is at its farthest point from the sun at the winter solstice. The Maturango Museum plans to celebrate this turning point on Saturday\, December 20th\, from 11 am to 2 pm\, near the time of the winter solstice. A winter collage card craft will be provided\, and members from the China Lake Astronomical Society may be on hand with their solar scopes\, allowing the public to view the sun safely. Join us!
URL:https://maturango.org/event/winter-solstice/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251213T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251213T140000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251206T000645Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251206T211133Z
UID:103500-1765623600-1765634400@maturango.org
SUMMARY:2nd Saturday Free Admission
DESCRIPTION:Join our docents for a fun\, hands-on activity! Participants will have the opportunity to create their own ornaments and winter-themed symbols using Sculpey clay. \nFree Saturday activities run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/2nd-saturday-free-admission/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251205T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251205T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250908T222656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T222656Z
UID:102766-1764930600-1764934200@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children's Hour
DESCRIPTION:Snow Tree\nA tradition! \nAnimals gather gifts from Nature to decorate a tree for all to enjoy!
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-3-2/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum Coso Room\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251106T005249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T005249Z
UID:103338-1762689600-1762704000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Double Dip Sundays! A Gift Store Deal For Members!
DESCRIPTION:for Museum Members\nEnjoy 20% discount on Sundays\nNovember 2 to November 30.\nIf you’re not a member call\, come in\, or go online to Maturango.org to purchase your membership.\nAlmost everything in the store qualifies with a few exceptions: books\, playing cards\, blankets\, gift certificates and DVDs.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/double-dip-sundays-a-gift-store-deal-for-members/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251109T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250617T210025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T004941Z
UID:101699-1762682400-1762707600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Second Saturday! Free Admission! And the Planetarium 11-2
DESCRIPTION:Second Saturday at the Museum!\nFree admission to all!\n  \n  \n 
URL:https://maturango.org/event/second-saturday-2-2-3/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMG_9190.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251107T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251107T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250908T222437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251022T221611Z
UID:102764-1762511400-1762515000@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children's Hour
DESCRIPTION:Hibernation\nWinter is sleep time for many animals
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-3/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum Coso Room\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251102T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251102T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251031T215704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251101T151308Z
UID:103308-1762092000-1762099200@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Ray Wood's "Singing DAX/Instagram Girl" Opening Reception
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://maturango.org/event/ray-woods-singing-dax-instagram-girl-opening-reception/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum Coso Room\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_9164-rotated.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251102T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260111T170000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251031T220740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251101T151439Z
UID:103310-1762070400-1768150800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Ray Wood's "Singing DAX/Instagram Girl"
DESCRIPTION:Gallery Exhibit\nAfter 40 years\, Wood is back with another solo show at the Maturango Museum to share his paintings of models and actresses from around the world posing by request with his dog “DAX” \nDAX is half black labrador retriever and bloodhound and loves to sing and fluctuate his voice to TV programs and music. DAX made his debut singing on Instagram about 2 years ago and Wood discovered people not only loved DAX for his singing ability but also his charm and the way he would interact with people. As time went on\, models from around the world asked to be painted with DAX and things began to take off. Singing DAX is now a household name on Instagram and people ask to be painted with him daily. \nDAX usually poses with models\, but in his time off\, he has models wearing his Singing DAX hat or his logo in the paintings. Wood discovered that art is an excellent way to bring people together and gives them a common ground to discover each other and their cultures. DAX now has over 750 followers from around the world and not only brings a positive message to people enjoying beautiful models but also a subliminal message with a little humor. \nInstagram is an excellent forum for artists because it allows them to get immediate feedback and stimulates good positive conversation. Posting paintings daily on Instagram with music has also been very inspirational and has motivated Wood to do hundreds of paintings. By allowing everyone to translate easily it enables people from around the world to be able to communicate freely and feel comfortable while talking with one another. \nPlease enjoy the show and you can always enjoy seeing DAX on Instagram @ singingdax \n 
URL:https://maturango.org/event/ray-woods-singing-dax-instagram-girl/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_9167-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251025T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251025T220000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250827T233405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T200833Z
UID:102626-1761409800-1761429600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Annual Dinner and Auction 2025
DESCRIPTION:Maturango Museum 2025\nAnnual Auction and Dinner\nSaturday\, October 25\nKerr McGee Center\nDoors open at 4:30pm\nMake a difference…\nand have a great time doing it!\nSponsorships available!\nSponsor pamphlet Auction 2025x
URL:https://maturango.org/event/annual-dinner-and-auction/
LOCATION:Kerr McGee Center\, 100 W California Ave\,\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
CATEGORIES:Fundraiser Events,Museum Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_7516.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251019T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251019T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251002T233713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T234508Z
UID:103182-1760882400-1760889600@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Video Screening: Hidden Ridgecrest 6
DESCRIPTION:Discover fascinating local history in the Hidden Ridgecrest 6 film! This episode features captivating stories\, including: \n\nThe Bonnefin Family’s life at Dead End Cabin—years before the Navy arrived\nThe growth of theater in the valley\, from CLOTA to the China Lake Players\nThe mystery of the Blue Jeans Ranch\n… and much more!\n\nThe video runs just under an hour. Following the screening\, producers Mark Pahuta and John Daly will be available for a Q&A session. \nAdmission is free\, but seating is limited—arrive early to secure your spot!
URL:https://maturango.org/event/video-screening-hidden-ridgecrest-6/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251018
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251019
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250903T221103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T221103Z
UID:102650-1760745600-1760831999@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Field Trip to Devil’s Punchbowl
DESCRIPTION:Maturango Museum Field Trip to Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area\nSaturday\, October 18\, 10:30am – 2:30pm\nNestled in the San Gabriel Mountains\, this stunning\ngeological wonder offers a unique opportunity to explore\ndramatic rock formations\, vibrant desert landscapes\, and the\ndynamic forces that shaped this region.\nOur adventure begins at 10:30 am at the Devil’s Punchbowl\nNature Center near Pearblossom\, Southern California. We’ll\nenjoy a presentation on the geology and history of the\nPunchbowl at the scenic View Point. Learn about the tectonic forces and erosion that created the\nPunchbowl’s iconic tilted sandstone layers and rugged canyons.\nFollowing the presentation\, we’ll embark on a guided one-mile loop hike into the Punchbowl canyon\,\noffering breathtaking views of the striking rock formations and surrounding desert and mountain terrain.\nThe trail features moderate inclines and rocky paths\, so sturdy hiking shoes and perhaps walking sticks are\nrecommended.\nWe’ll wrap up the day by 2:30 pm\, leaving time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area or relax at the\nNature Center.\nWhat to Bring:\n Comfortable hiking shoes\n Water bottle (at least 1 liter)\n Sunscreen and hat\n Light layers for cool mornings and warm\nafternoons\n Snacks for the trail\nThis family-friendly trip is perfect for geology enthusiasts\,\nhikers\, and anyone eager to discover the natural beauty of the Devil’s Punchbowl. Don’t miss this chance\nto explore one of Southern California’s most remarkable landscapes!\nBuy tickets on the museum website maturango.org/events The cost is $35 for museum members ($60\nfor 2 members)\, $45 nonmembers ($80 for 2). Kids under 18 are free.\nCancellation Policy: If the Museum cancels your trip\, you will be given a full refund or you may transfer\nthe money to a different trip. No cash refunds will be given if you cancel.\nHoward McCauley will send out an update and details to those who’ve registered a couple of days before\nthe trip.
URL:https://maturango.org/event/field-trip-to-devils-punchbowl/
CATEGORIES:Tours and Trips
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://maturango.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_8586.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251011T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251011T160000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20251002T232152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T232152Z
UID:103177-1760173200-1760198400@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Free Saturday: Breakfeast Burritos
DESCRIPTION:Come Meet the Burros at the Museum!\nJoin us for a special day as the Museum welcomes the friendly burros brought by Karin and John Usko of the California Breakfast Burrito group. These gentle animals love attention and can’t wait to be petted and adored! The burros will be visiting from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (weather permitting). \nWhile you’re here\, stop inside the Museum between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM for a fun hands-on craft activity the whole family will enjoy. \nBring your family and friends for a unique experience filled with furry friends\, creativity\, and community fun! \nwww.californiabreakfastburritos.org/
URL:https://maturango.org/event/free-saturday-breakfeast-burritos/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251010T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20251010T113000
DTSTAMP:20260405T135500
CREATED:20250908T222110Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T222110Z
UID:102762-1760092200-1760095800@maturango.org
SUMMARY:Children's Hour
DESCRIPTION:Folktale with a Desert Twist\n“The Gingerbread Cowboy”
URL:https://maturango.org/event/childrens-hour-2/
LOCATION:Maturango Museum Coso Room\, 100 E Las Flores Ave\, Ridgecrest\, CA\, 93555\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Maturango Museum":MAILTO:info@maturango.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR