TehachaPod

In this episode of Follow the Water, we explore who manages the region's water. We'll learn about the adjudication of the basins, what a "watermaster" is, and explain TCCWD's ad valorem tax.  For more information about Tehachapi's water, visit: https://liveuptehachapi.com/553/Tehachapis-Water This series is narrated by Key Budge, Community Engagement Director for the City of Tehachapi, and produced and edited by Mya Acosta, Community Engagement Specialist for the City of Tehachapi. Information and interviews are provided by Jon Hammond, local historian and journalist, Don Marsh, Development Services Director for the City of Tehachapi, and Jay Schlosser, Executive Director of the Kern Council of Governments.

Listen to our latest Weekend Activity Update to discover what events and activities are happening around town. Head over to our social media @CityofTehachapi to stay updated on everything going on!

Want to learn more about local filmmakers, storytellers, and creators? Marilyn Schlitz and Andi Hicks sit down to discuss how the Eclectic Film Series came to be — and to spotlight Marilyn's film Death Makes Life Possible. Her film will be screening on October 28th at Fiddler's Crossing (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). To reserve a ticket, please text 818‑427‑5650.

In the first episode of our series, “Follow the Water,” we explore the details and processes behind where your water comes from. This episode focuses on helping you understand three key concepts: - What native water is - What State Water Project (SWP) water is - The difference between Municipal & Industrial (M&I) and agricultural uses of SWP water For more information about Tehachapi's water, visit: https://liveuptehachapi.com/553/Tehachapis-Water This series is narrated by Key Budge, Community Engagement Director for the City of Tehachapi, and produced and edited by Mya Acosta, Community Engagement Specialist for the City of Tehachapi. Information and interviews are provided by Don Marsh, Development Services Director for the City of Tehachapi. Additional sources include the California Department of Water Resources and the U.S. Geological Survey.

Take a listen to this brief update on what's happening around town this weekend. Any questions or comments, email us at media@tehachapicityhall.com.

Sarai Diaz, Special Events Supervisor for the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District, and Donna Clark, Sports Supervisor, join host Key Budge to discuss TVRPD's upcoming events and sports programs. To learn more, visit www.tvrpd.org

Water sustains Tehachapi — but behind every faucet lies a deeper story. Follow the Water explores the City's dispute with TCCWD, uncovering how outside decisions impact local residents, agriculture, and our shared future. Get the facts. Hear the voices. Decide for yourself. Stay tuned for the podcast series -- coming soon! Learn more at: https://liveuptehachapi.com/553/Tehachapis-Water Questions? Email us: media@tehachapicityhall.com

Our Breast Cancer Awareness Walk is this Saturday! There is so much to do this weekend, it might be difficult to keep track of all the great events and activities. Take a listen to this episode to help plan out the jam-packed weekend.

The City of Tehachapi and the Golden Hills Community Services District recently released a joint letter discussing the major sticking points of our two agencies' issues with the Tehachapi Cummings County Water District. The episode brings that letter to life with an engaging conversation between Tehachapi City Manager Greg Garrett, GHCSD General Manager Chris Carlson, Development Services Director Don Marsh, Community Engagement Director Key Budge, and Assistant City Manager Corey Costelloe.  If you have questions or comments regarding this issue, we encourage you to send them to media@tehachapicityhall.com.  For more information on this topic, visit the Water Resources webpage on our website: https://liveuptehachapi.com/553/Tehachapis-Water  

The Apple Festival returns to downtown Tehachapi through the leadership of the Semerenko Team! We sit down with Lorena Semerenko, Amber Mitchell, Burgendy Clark, and Tiffany Rea to learn about the new vibe the team is bringing to this year's festival. For more information, check out their Facebook page @tehachapiapplefest

Take a listen to our latest Weekend Activity Update to learn more about what events and activities are happening around town! Keep up-to-date with City happenings on our social media, @CityofTehachapi on all platforms.

Kyle Yates, Service Center Coordinator of the Salvation Army Tehachapi Service Center, joins the podcast to discuss their programs and resources available to our community. The Salvation Army seeks the community's support during the holiday season; whether it be through donations or volunteering, all are encouraged to help. For more information, visit www.salvationarmyusa.org  

Clare Scotti, Executive Director of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce, recaps the successful Thunder on the Mountain event and shares a look at what's to come for the month of October. Plus, Healthy Hippie owners Kim Durham-Ashton and Thorn Ashton join the podcast to discuss their business's new location in downtown Tehachapi and the exciting events they have coming up. To learn more about the Chamber, visit www.tehachapi.com For more information on the Healthy Hippie, visit www.healthyhippieshop.com  

Water talk from the recently aired KERN Radio morning show. We talk about Tehachapi's water resources, how it is delivered, and the role the State Water Project (SWP) (that all Tehachapi property owners pay for) and how it plays in our drinking water, who gets almost all of it and they don't even own property in Tehachapi. Stay tuned to TehachaPod as we will be launching a new series of podcasts on Tehachapi's water, and everything related to this topic to help everyone understand the facts about Tehachapi's water supply.

Take a listen to this brief update on what's happening around town this weekend. Any questions or comments, email us at media@tehachapicityhall.com

Take a listen to hear about what is all happening around Tehachapi this weekend! If you have a question or comment, email us: media@tehachapicityhall.com.

See what events are in store for Tehachapi this weekend! If you have a question or comment, email us: media@tehachapicityhall.com

Take a listen to our latest Weekend Activity Update to learn more about what events and activities are happening around town! Keep up-to-date with City happenings on our social media, @CityofTehachapi on all platforms.

The Tehachapi Weekend Activity Update has a new look -- quite literally -- as we've added a visual component to our weekly segment discussing the events and activities happening in town! Watch the episode on our YouTube or social media for a more engaging experience, or listen to the audio version right here.  Community Engagement Specialists Mya Acosta and Bailey Damian preview the events planned for September, including the Thunder on the Mountain Car Show, TVRPD's Mud Run 5k, Kids Day at the Museum, and much more! 

In this Chamber Update, we speak with Clare Scotti, Executive Director of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce about the turnout of Mountain Festival and details on what's to come for the month of September. Clare also joins us from the perspective of a local business owner; her husband and business partner Chris Scotti discusses the couple's new business venture, The Bee's Landing. To learn more about what's happening at the Chamber, visit www.tehachapi.com  To learn more about The Bee's Landing, find them on social media @TheBeesLanding

This recording may sound a little different, and that's because we recorded it on-location at House of Wax Vinyl! If you want a peak of the new storefront and to watch the video version of this episode, head to our YouTube or social media pages. Otherwise, tune in as usual to learn about House of Wax's upcoming concert series and the other fun things offered at the shop. To learn more, visit www.houseofwaxvinyl.com

It's Labor Day Weekend! Take a listen to this brief update on what's happening around town this weekend. Any questions or comments, email us at media@tehachapicityhall.com

This episode is a recording from a live radio show we hosted at News Talk 96.1 FM & 1180 AM KERN in Bakersfield on Wednesday August 27. KERN radio asked the City of Tehachapi TehachaPod crew to host the morning show for 3 hours while morning host Scott Cox was on vacation. Key Budge, Corey Costelloe, and Mya Acosta hosted the three hours and featured guests Greg Garrett, Don Marsh, and Richard Standridge all from the City of Tehachapi. We talk about Tehachapi's water supply, where the water comes from, among other topics related to Tehachapi. The show has been edited to remove commercials and get down to the conversation about Tehachapi's water supply, roads and other infrastructure in the city, services provided by the city and our public safety. Its a quick listen and SPECIAL THANKS to KERN Radio 96.1 FM & 1180 AM for asking us to fill in and for allowing us to share the recording. www.KERNRadio.com 

Find out what's happening in Tehachapi this weekend! Are you taking a breather after the busy Mountain Fest weekend or are you looking to keep the fun going? There's still plenty to do in Tehachapi over the next week. If you have a question or comment, email us: media@tehachapicityhall.com

The Sound of Music takes the stage at the Beekay Theatre this week! Director Chris Morales and cast members Jamie Uhtoff (Maria) and Ben Baldassarre (Captain Von Trapp) join us to share behind-the-scenes stories from this beloved production. Learn more about the Tehachapi Community Theatre Association and grab your tickets at www.tctaonstage.com

TehachaPod's 'Eye on the Capitol' is an informative look at State and National issues impacting your life in Tehachapi. On this episode, we take a look at over 18 bills introduced during this latest State Legislative session to reform the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as a result of development opponents weaponizing the process to block commercial and residential developments over the last several years. The result? A reduction in local control and a quicker approval process for many projects meeting specific criteria minus much of the previous environmental review. Plus, the state announces the next prison closure and California and Texas square off over mid-term redistricting well outside of the norms of the normal redistricting process. 

It's Mountain Fest Weekend! There is so much to do, it might be difficult to keep track of all the great events and activities. Take a listen to this episode to help plan out the jam-packed weekend. For the full Mountain Fest schedule, visit www.tehachapimountainfestival.com

Lindsay Villalpondo with the Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo Association and Abby and Kai Sturn join us to discuss the upcoming Mountain Festival Rodeo events. Starting Friday evening and running through Sunday afternoon, people can enjoy a wide variety of rodeo events from both PRCA riders and local participants. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit www.tehachapiprorodeo.com  

Connor Long, Operations Manager of Marley's Mutts Ranch Rescue joins us to give an update on what's new at the ranch! Plus, details on the Comedy Unleashed fundraiser event hosted by Westlane Brewing on August 30th. For more information, visit www.marleysmutts.org

August is a busy month filled with so many events and activities! Take a listen to learn about what's on the schedule for the next couple of weekends. If you have any events you'd like us to share, email us at media@tehachapicityhall.com. 

In this episode of Tehachapod, we chat with author Heather Surls about her new book, Beyond the Jordan, a memoir inspired by her 10 years living in Jordan and Israel-Palestine. From Tehachapi to the Middle East, Heather shares stories of the people she met and how their resilience and hospitality shaped her views on faith, place, and purpose. She also reflects on the power of storytelling and reminds us that, regardless of where we live, what religion we practice, or what culture we come from, we're often more alike than we think. To learn more about Heather's work and to find her book, visit: https://www.heathermsurls.com/  

Richard Chapman, Executive Director of the Kern Economic Development Foundation, and Jennifer Van Alstein, Adaptive Networks, join the podcast to discuss the Kern Intern Connections (KIC) program and other opportunities available through the KEDF. Our Community Engagement Intern, Priscilla Calderon, shares her experience with the KIC program and how it connected her with the City of Tehachapi. To learn more about the KEDF and KIC program, visit: https://kedf.org/  

August is a jam-packed month for the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce as they prepared for the Tehachapi Mountain Festival! Learn more about the Chamber happenings and hear from local photographer and business owner, Liberty Shaub, about her studio. For more information on the Chamber, visit www.tehachapi.com. To check out Liberty's portfolio and to book your next photoshoot, visit www.libertyshaubphotography.com  

Trying to find something to do this weekend? Take a listen to this episode as Bailey Damian gives a preview of the fun events and activities happening around town. To share your event/activity with us, email media@tehachapicityhall.com  

Take a listen to our latest Weekend Activity Update to learn more about what events and activities are happening around town! Keep up-to-date with City happenings on our social media, @CityofTehachapi on all platforms.

Let's take a peek at the busy calendar of events through the remainder of July and into August! With events like the Mountain Festival and Green Street Get Down right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning ahead. Join us as Clare Scotti with Discover Tehachapi and host Mya Acosta discuss the happenings at our wineries, breweries, and beyond. To learn more, visit www.discovertehachapi.com

Jenny Lavers, Operations Executive for Adventist Health Central Valley, and Bre Patterson, Director of Nursing at Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley Hospital, join the podcast to discuss the importance of healthcare access in our mountain community and providing compassionate care to all. To learn more, visit https://www.adventisthealth.org/tehachapi-valley/  

A quick update for the upcoming activities around Tehachapi for the 4th of July weekend.

The Tehachapi Valley Art Association's Chalk on the Walk event is quickly approaching! TVAA President Gale Caldwell, Chalk on the Walk Co-Chair Rachel Axedahl, and Make Art Tehachapi Boardmember Jeanette Pauer join the podcast to share details on the exciting event and other inspiring happenings in our art communities. To learn more, visit galleryngifts.com

Our monthly Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce TehachaPod episode features Matt Battaglia, owner of the House of Wax on Tehachapi Blvd. Matt talks about his record store he owns with his wife Kim. Matt talks about the resurgance of vinyl records to a new generation and how closely the House of Wax works with other local businesses in Tehachapi.

In this special Independence Day edition of Tehachapod, we're honored to welcome Brigadier General Douglas P. Wickert, Commander of the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base. Brig. Gen. Wickert leads nearly 8,000 personnel in the groundbreaking developmental test and evaluation of some of the most advanced aircraft and technologies in the world. We discuss how Edwards AFB's mission impacts the communities of the Greater Tehachapi area, the future of flight test innovation, and what it means to serve at one of the most storied installations in aviation history. Plus, hear how Edwards continues to shape the next chapter of aerospace and national defense from right here in the High Desert. Join us for this inspiring conversation about service, technology, and community as we celebrate freedom this Fourth of July.

We have a quick rundown on all activities in the greater Tehachapi area beginning June 26 through the next couple of weeks. Enjoy our downtown breweries and wine tasting rooms among many other fun activities. Send your thoughts questions and comments to media@tehachapicityhall.com. 

In this episode, we're joined by Micah Martin and Dave Walter from the Tehachapi Amateur Radio Association to talk about their 2025 Field Day event. They share what Field Day is all about, how local amateur radio operators connect with others across the country -- or even outer space -- and the vital role ham radio plays in emergency communications. To learn more, visit https://ac6ee.org/  

The 4th of July Benz Ball Bulls Rodeo is the ideal way to spend your Independence Day evening! Lindsay Villalpondo with the Tehachapi Mountain Rodeo Association joins host Mya Acosta in discussing the fun in store for the upcoming rodeo. Learn more and purchase your tickets at www.tehachapiprorodeo.com  

Hosts Mya Acosta and Key Budge sit down with Marybeth Garrison, President of Cheers to Charity, and Theresa Dineen to discuss one of Tehachapi's most anticipated annual events. Learn how this evening of tasty drinks, great food, and community spirit has raised vital funds for local nonprofits since 2014. To learn more and to purchase your tickets, visit www.cheertocharity.net or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cheers-to-charity-2025-tickets-1244123630269?aff=erelexpmlt  

We have a quick rundown on all the weekends activities in and around the City of Tehachapi.

National Parks and Recreation Month is right around the corner! Recreation Manager Sarai Diaz and Tehachapi Tots Director Kelsey Ketcheside, with the Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Park District, join host Mya Acosta in discussing the long list of exciting activities happening all July long. For more information and for the full calendar of events, visit www.tvrpd.org  

Summer is in full swing and so is Tehachapi's busy event season! Join us as host Mya Acosta and Clare Scotti discuss the upcoming events at our wineries, breweries, and long list of other activities taking place all throughout the Tehachapi Valley. To learn more, visit www.discovertehachapi.com

A quick look arounf the Tehachapi valley at things to do for the upcoming week beginning June 5. 

Anytime Fitness is now open in Tehachapi! Jason Coulie, Director of Operations and Edgar Garibaldo, Regional Manager, join the podcast to share more information on Tehachapi's newest gym. Clare Scotti, Executive Director of the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce also joins the discussion to share the latest chamber news as we head into June. To learn more, visit www.anytimefitness.com For more information on the Chamber, visit www.tehachapi.com  

Are you interested in unique films and other pieces of work produced by Tehachapi artists? The Eclectic Film Series could be right up your alley! Starting June 24 at the Village Collective, enjoy the film series featuring films, musicals, documentaries, and lectures.