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January 2014
bakersfieldlife.com
Time to Celebrate! Special moments captured locally by camera
Wedding 101 Everything you need to know to be prepared
Plan your New Year’s
Celebration $3.95
New Dining Divas at CACTUS VALLEY Pick a GYM that’s right for you Locals prep for the ROSE PARADE
THE
3 QUESTIONS
YOU MUST ASK A LAW FIRM When choosing a law firm for a serious injury or wrongful death case, you must determine if they have the know-how and experience to represent you. Before you hire a law firm, make sure you know the answers to these 3 critical questions.
The 3 questions to ask any law firm that you are considering hiring:
1
Many law firms that claim to be experienced have not actually tried many cases in court. These firms may settle a case for less than it’s worth; they’re afraid to fight it out in court because they just don’t have the experience.
2 (661) 323-1400 www.rodriguezlaw.net
How many jury trials have you done?
How many multi-million dollar jury verdicts have you won? Going to court and winning in court aren’t necessarily the same thing. A law firm must be prepared, willing and have the experience to fight a case in court…and win.
2020 Eye Street Bakersfield CA 93301 @DRodriguezLaw @ DRodriguezLaw D
Rodriguez & Associates has done over 160 jury trials.
Rodriguez & Associates has won more multi-million dollar verdicts than any firm in the southern San Joaquin Valley, and has also won the single largest personal injury trial verdict ever in southern San Joaquin Valley history.
3 How many cases does your firm have right now? Many law firms take on too many cases just to settle them –for far less than the cases are worth– just to make a quick buck. These firms won’t take the time to give your case the attention that it deserves.
Rodriguez & Associates always keeps a case-to-lawyer ratio that ensures that each and every case gets the full attention it deserves, and we’re prepared to take each case all the way to trial.
Rodriguez & Associates • 2020 Eye Street • Bakersfield CA 93301 • 661-323-1400 • Toll free 800-585-9262 • www.rodriguezlaw.net
F E A T U R E S January 2014
Celebrations Issue!
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Rose Parade
Gym time!
Get to know a local mother and organ donor advocate who will walk in the Tournament of Roses Parade following her kidney donation for her son.
Renew your commitment to healthy living this New Year’s with a fitness center that’s just right for you. From one-on-one centers to mega clubs, learn about your local options.
PHOTO BY JESSICA FREY
Revel in life’s moments with Bakersfield Life. See the favorite celebration moments of 2013 from local professional photographers. Page 80. What wedding songs are the most popular, and which should you stay away from? A local DJ gives us the inside scoop. Page 86. Plan the perfect Super Bowl bash. Page 88. Take a step-by-step journey leading up to the big wedding day. Page 90. When marriage doesn’t work out, why not throw a party? Page 94.
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D E P A R T M E N T S January 2014
13 30
32 36 42 46 48 54 56 61 62
64 Talk of the Town 68 For a Cause 96 Business Profiles 100 Pastimes 104 Home and Garden 106 History 110 In My Closet 112 Inside Story Page 114 Streets of Bakersfield Dining Divas 32 116 Personality Food and Wine 120 Real People Foodie 124 Fit and Fresh Cooking with Chef Robert 126 Health and Wellness Entertainment 128 Golf Hometown Hero 130 Trip Planner On the Road 134 Prime Finds Why I Live Here 136 SNAP! All-Star Athlete 146 Last Word Up Front Bakersfield Matters
Page 62 Page1 110
Page 110
• 3 Dimensional Designing • Full Service Remodels • Cabinetry • Countertops / Backsplash • Flooring – Tile / Hardwood
Project Notes · White Toasted Hazelnut Glaze Cabinets · Granite- Typhoon Bordeaux · Backsplash- 2x6 Cappuccino marble with a custom inlay water jet medallion above Cooktop · Lots of Lighting – A must have! “My work is my passion.” - Rick Sorci
After doing research on my own of different designs for my kitchen, collecting magazine clippings of items I wanted in my kitchen and talking with several contractors, I chose Rick Sorci with Stockdale Kitchen and Bath. His professional design program that showed me exactly how my kitchen would be even before construction, was so unique. He was able to give me all the physical changes and additions that I wanted in my dream kitchen. From actual removal of my kitchen window to a room of exquisite lighting. My entire kitchen encircled with a beautiful granite countertop that I now can have my cooking classes held at. The addition of a wine bar really expanded my small sized kitchen. Giving me additional storage and countertop for my wine & cheese tasting parties. And as I reflect back on the different stages of the remodel. It was quite an experience. I
discovered how to camp within my own home while construction was in progress. Working with Rick and his talented crew was enjoyable. From Tina who was so helpful throughout the construction, shopping with Rick for granite and appliances and lighting fixtures, and Dave and Rick who didn’t mind my presence throughout the transition so that I could be a part of this remodel. Thank you Rick and staff for a job well done. I look forward to the years ahead enjoying this beautiful new kitchen. I have owned my own business, Gail’s Bookkeeping Service, for 30 years and have partnered with Quality Tax Service for the last 8 years. I love to travel during the off-season, and now will be able to enjoy entertaining in my new kitchen.
Gail Henderson
S TA F F S H A R E S
Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine Jan. 2014 / Vol. 8 / Issue 4
“WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE CELEBRATORY MOMENT?”
Bakersfield Life™ magazine is published by The Bakersfield Californian. The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse President/CEO Richard Beene
“I was lucky enough to be standing close when my son, Jarret, received the call that the Los Angeles Dodgers had just placed him on their 40-man roster. This moment was the capstone of years of sacrifice and effort, so the ensuing celebration was big. Go Blue!” — Dana Martin, contributing writer
Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin Interactive Sales Manager Gunter Copeland Advertising Sales Manager Lisa Whitten
“I like the countdown to midnight on New Year’s Eve. I’m always surrounded by people I love to welcome a new year full of opportunities.” — Emily Claffy, contributing writer
“I love any celebration where there is dancing and bottles of bubbly are popped, so weddings top my list!” — Hillary Haenes, specialty publications coordinator
“There’s nothing like the Condors’ Teddy Bear Toss game. Thousands of fans anxiously awaiting the Condors’ first goal so they can litter the ice with teddy bears that will be donated to less fortunate children —it’s a grand celebration for a good cause. When the puck finds the back of the net and that horn sounds, it’s bears away!” — Mark Nessia, contributing photographer and writer
“Growing up, life was a celebration in my family — all the milestones and achievements, however big or small. It is the same way now with my husband and our three children. Here’s hoping they’ll continue to embrace life’s beautiful moments with their own families in the future.” — Lisa Kimble, contributing writer “Those special seven words — ‘I now pronounce you man and wife’ — always kick off one heck of a celebration.” — Jorge Barrientos, assistant managing editor
Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Marketing Manager Mira Patel Distribution and Marketing Representative Patrick Wells Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Jorge Barrientos Specialty Publications Coordinator Hillary Haenes Editorial Assistant Estella Aguilar, Marisol Sorto Art Director Glenn Hammett Photography Felix Adamo, Sally Baker, Henry A. Barrios, Casey Christie, Michael Lopez, April Massirio, Greg Nichols, Mark Nessia, Carla Rivas, Austin Thomas, Chris Thomas, Rodney Thornburgh, Brian N. Willhite Contributing Writers Sally Baker, Colleen Bauer, Kelly Damian, Ken Hooper, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Marissa Lay, Stephen Lynch, Kevin McCloskey, Dana Martin, Louis Medina, Mark Nessia, Jacque Servadio, Deborah Ramirez Tinoco, Chris Thornburgh, Brian N. Willhite
CALIFORNIAN FILE ¡PHOTO
Interns Eduardo Gamez
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On the cover Photo by April Massirio. Melissa and Brian Ludt get in the celebration mood at The Mark Restaurant.
EDITOR’S NOTE
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Kimble is an Emmy-award winning former broadcast journalist who began her career in radio. As a television news anchor, reporter and producer for KGET and KERO, she covered presidents, a Papal visit and Oscar’s red carpets. A regular contributor to BWell Live and this magazine, Lisa is also the author of a social graces blog, “It Manners a Lot,” and an obituary writer. A graduate of Garces Memorial High and Mount St. Mary’s College, Lisa is a member of the Junior League of Bakersfield, Bakersfield Museum of Art’s board, and a former Kern County Grand Jury juror. She and her husband, Craig Edmonston, have three children. In this issue: Lisa highlights the Levan Center (Page 18), discusses customer service in her monthly column (Page 30), and introduces us to Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra’s president in the Personality section (Page 116). Kelly Damian is a freelance writer and author. She lived in Tehachapi during her teenage years and when she moved, she never anticipated returning to Kern County. As the fates would have it, she married a Tehachapi boy, and they now live with their two daughters in Bakersfield. In addition to her ongoing work with Bakersfield Life, she is working on her second novel. She also blogs sporadically at kellydamian.com. In this issue: Kelly explores what life was like for former residents of the Sunset Labor Camp (Page 100), and for our “Celebrations” issue delves into “divorce parties” (Page 94). Mark Nessia has been a freelance photographer and writer with Bakersfield Life Magazine since 2011. Outside of magazine duties, Mark serves as the team photographer for the Bakersfield Condors and also photographs Cal State Bakersfield athletics, in addition to weddings and portraits. For more information, go to www.marknessia.com. In this issue: Mark gives us the Inside Story on the Bakersfield Condors locker room (Page 112), goes toe to toe with food challenges in town (Page 36), puts the spotlight on Chester Avenue for the new “Streets of Bakersfield” section (Page 114), and check out the Big Picture he captured during a Cal State Bakersfield basketball game (Page 14).
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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW US
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h, the start of the New Year — a time to reflect on the good and bad of 2013. It is also a time to look to greater things in store for us as we set new goals, priorities and memories in 2014. With that in mind, our staff at Bakersfield Life found it only fitting to plan the January issue around celebrations.
CELEBRATIONS What better focus of celebrations than on weddings, or the love of your life popping that big question? If this fits you, then make sure you catch our wedding timeline provided with the help from Colleen Bauer, owner of Fairy Godmother, a wedding and event planning company. This timeline starts out 16 months before the big day, to after the honeymoon stage. In addition, we feature information on who should traditionally cover the costs that come with weddings. Now for those on the other side and going through a divorce, writer Kelly Damian writes about how to get through that difficult period, and believe it or not, some plan divorce parties to help them. You may ask, ‘What exactly are divorce parties?’ Go to page XX to find out. Now for my football fans out there, myself included, we offer some ways to plan that great Super Bowl bash. Colleen Bauer offers some more great advice here. And many of us are planning the kick off the New Year by getting fit and working out. Writer and trainer Sally Baker, and Katie Kirschenmann, a runner and mom of three little ones, provide us a glimpse into some local gyms that may be just right for you. Each gym featured has something different to offer.
ersfield Life’s executive chef. If you have any questions on food, please email me, and I will be sure to pass them on to him. Speaking of food, I am excited to introduce our new Dining Divas for 2014. Please welcome Norma Diaz, Nina Ha, Tanya Hutson, Aryana Mosley and Amanda Reade. The fun, beautiful group of divas set out for their first visit, Cactus Valley Restaurant & Cantina owned by Nadia Nuñez and her husband, Rigo. Check out what they have to say about this family-owned Rosedale restaurant. Next month, meet our new Food Dudes. Other new faces and features in Bakersfield Life for 2014 include golf tips from local golf pro Jacque Servadio, a fashion-focused feature “In My Closet,” a guest columnist each issue on the last page of the magazine, a highlight of what’s “In Season” each month, and a section dedicated to the most interesting blocks, neighborhood and areas in our town.
‘LIVE WELL’ SHOW For our Bakersfield Life fans who can’t get enough, I’d like to invite you to catch us on the Live Well show, hosted by Lisa Krch. The show will kick off in January and will be shown live via webcast at Bakersfield.com. The show is a partnership between Bakersfield Life Magazine and B Well Magazine, our health and wellness sister publication. As part of the show, we will talk things all related to Bakersfield Life or B Well magazine. You will get to catch live interviews with some of our features subjects or hear from our writers or photographers talk about their projects. And if it conflicts with your schedule, then visit BakoTube on YouTube, where you can find all of the shows anytime. We are excited about this venture in 2014.
NEW FACES, FEATURES In this issue, you will see a new contributing columnist. Chef Robert Alimirzaie of the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield will provide regular stories focused on local cuisine and the talent behind the dishes, and recipes you can try at home. Please welcome him as Bak-
Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 • ogarcia@bakersfield.com
UP FRONT
WORD ON THE STREET Compiled by Brian N. Willhite
WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION? Angelina Guzman
Chayce Howard
Michael Tafoya
“Sobriety. I’m looking to become more spiritual and I think a sober mind is one that’s ready to learn.”
“To start seeing things from a different perspective.”
“To continue living more of a Christ-like life.”
Jim Miller
Carolina Reyes
Katie Bernal
“To set aside more valuable free time for life.”
“To end this year off right and begin the new year by not smoking and drinking anymore.”
“To pursue my new business wholeheartedly.”
Brenda Miller
Homer Hernandez
Mary Johnson
“To live my life in a way that makes things better for others.”
“To host an honest show where the people of Bakersfield can express themselves through their artistic endeavors.”
“To perfect my cake-decorating skills.”
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bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Mark Nessia
OVERCOMING THE ODDS Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunner’s Aly Ahmed goes up for a loose ball surrounded by five Santa Clara University players during a December game at Rabobank Arena.
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UP FRONT
THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Casey Christie
HEAP OF SHEEP A large flock of sheep graze south of town near Herring Road on a cloudy, cold Kern County Saturday.
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UP FRONT
NAMED AFTER
Norman Levan has been a prolific contributor to higher education. 18
Bakersfield Life Magazine
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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
LEVAN CENTER FOR THE HUMANITIES
BAKERSFIELD COLLEGE ARCHIVES
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n a century of Bakersfield College, it is its humanities center and learning institute that are among the junior college’s crown jewels, made possible by the school’s biggest benefactor — an unassuming man who neither taught there nor attended, and the quintessential “millionaire next door.” A self-described “fortunate man,” retired dermatologist Dr. Norman Levan — for whom the Levan Center for the Humanities and Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning are named — amassed a fortune in some seven decades of wise investing and modest living. Norman Emanuel Levan was born at the family home in Cleveland in 1916, the youngest of four children of Russian immigrants. School came easy for Norman, who loved reading, but never studied. He skipped grades and graduated high school at age 16. Like many teens, Norman developed acne as a young man. Norman moved to Los Angeles with his mother and sister in 1932. He enrolled at the University of Southern California. He had the highest score on the medical school entrance exam and earned his undergraduate and medical degrees from USC. In 1940, not long after beginning his internship, he joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps, serving until 1946, mainly in the Central Pacific during
Levan Center for the Humanities at Bakersfield College was dedicated in 2010.
World War II where he treated soldiers’ skin diseases. Maj. Levan returned to Los Angeles to begin his residency in dermatology before joining a private practice and volunteer teaching at USC’s budding Dermatology Department, eventually becoming its first chairman and full-time faculty member and earning the title “Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Medicine” after 23 years as head of the department. Dr. Levan enjoyed sailing, but it was a chance meeting on the tennis court that changed his life. He met Elizabeth Marilyn Clarke in 1949, and after only a few months of dating, they married in Honolulu in 1950. Levan’s family was not very religious. He describes himself as a secular Jew, rather than observant Jew. Still, his mother and sister never accepted his bride, who was not Jewish. It was among the reasons the couple moved to Bakersfield in 1957, two years after he began commuting from Los Angeles to see local patients. Betty, a champion bridge player, was co-founder of the Assistance League of Bakersfield. Norman was a founding member of the Bakersfield Racquet Club. The Levans traveled the world extensively. Levan originally intended for his wealth to be distributed upon his death — the couple had no children. But his longtime receptionist and caretaker Carmen Schaad persuaded him to appreciate the fruits of his labor while he was still alive. “I have really enjoyed giving it away,” Dr. Levan says. He began late-in-life philanthropy, writing checks shortly after Betty’s passing in 2005. Besides the record gifts to BC — the result of his friendship with the late Dr. John Collins, former BC president — Levan has given multi-million dollar donations to USC, the Dr. Norman Levan Center for Humanistic Medicine at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, and the Norman and Betty Levan Hall at St. John's College's Graduate Institute of Liberal Education in Santa Fe, N.M. In his 2010 autobiography, he writes, “Fame is not praiseworthy. Personal honor is. I certainly value it more than money in these late days of my life.” Levan still lives in his Riviera Westchester home in Bakersfield, and reading remains his greatest pleasure. — Lisa Kimble
MONEY MATTERS
T
he New Year is a chance to start with a clean slate. If your finances had a rough year in 2013, rethink your approach. Give yourself a financial checkup to make sure you’re heading in the right direction. An annual financial checkup can be done at home within a few hours. Here are some things to consider: Goals: Start by checking how you did on your financial goals from last year. None of us are perfect, so consider what changes you need to make this year. If you never made any goals to start with, now is a good time so you have direction. Do you have enough money saved in an emergency fund to pay for at least six months of expenses if you lose your job or cannot work? Are you regularly contributing to your retirement and socking money away into your savings account? Life changes: If you got divorced, married, changed jobs, had a baby, moved or are retiring, your financial goals for the year may change dramatically. You may need to adapt your budget, your spending, your savings and your investments. Insurance: Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, health insurance and auto insurance for competitive rates and adequate coverage. Do you have long-term disability insurance if you are unable to work? Don’t forget life insurance — generally, term-life insurance is an affordable way to protect your family. Investments: Review the performance of your investments last year and consider any needed adjustments. Replace consistently under-performing funds. Did you have a child in the past year? Do you need to start a college fund? Debts: How are you doing paying down debt? If you depended on credit cards last year, ask yourself why and find ways to prevent it this year. As you pay down credit card debt, tackle those with the highest interest rates first. Now is a good time to check your credit to make sure all the information is
GIVE YOURSELF A FINANCIAL CHECKUP THIS NEW YEAR
accurate. Go to annualcreditreport.com for a free copy of your credit report. Also revisit your home mortgage loan interest rate. Perhaps you can reduce your monthly mortgage payments by refinancing. Income taxes: If you didn’t look at ways to reduce your income taxes last year, get a jump on finding deductions for this year’s taxes. Check with your tax advisor, especially if you had some life changes. Reevaluate your withholding. Retirement: Contributing the maximum amount to your 401(K) or other retirement account is a smart way to reduce your taxes while building your nest-egg. If your employer doesn’t have a retirement plan, contribute to an IRA account. If you are self-employed, you have even more retirement plan options. See a tax advisor if retirement plan choices have you overwhelmed. Household spending: Review your monthly household bills such as cable, phone, power, water, mortgage, maintenance, clothing, gas and others to see if any expenses can be cut, or are expected to rise in 2014. Are you spending within your budget? Estate planning: Estate planning isn’t just for the rich. If you care what happens to you, your money and your family, then planning is necessary. Do you have a will or a living trust, and is it up to date? If you have minor children, it’s important to state who will be their guardians if the unexpected occurs. Do you have medical directives and a durable power of attorney if you are unable to make decisions? Update the beneficiaries on your life insurance, pensions and retirement accounts. Consider seeking an advisor for proactive estate planning. It’s easy to say that you should make these changes as they happen; however, life sometimes gets away. The New Year is a great time to realign your financial strategy with your financial reality.
Thornburgh
— Chris Thornburgh is a CPA and partner at Brown Armstrong Accountancy Corp. Contact her at cthornburgh @bacpas.com or 324-4971. bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
Even kids can participate during the Rio Bravo Rumble.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
SHORT TAKES
Drop off your Christmas tree for recycling at various spots around town, including Cal State Bakersfield.
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
GET READY TO RIO BRAVO RUMBLE
GOODBYE CHRISTMAS: HOW TO RECYCLE YOUR HOLIDAY TREE
C
hristmas has come and gone, and soon will the festive green needles of your Christmas tree. Play it safe by recycling your tree as soon as possible. Here are a just a few ways to do it. • Cut it into pieces and put in your green waste container, making sure the lid closes. • Take to any county disposal sites or landfills (be sure to tarp or cover), or City of Bakersfield green waste facility. • There are numerous other drop-off locations throughout the county. Go to KernCountyWaste.com for a full list. • Several nonprofit groups will pickup your tree for a $10 fee. They include Boy Scouts and Bakersfield High School’s drumline and color guard team. Check KernCountyWaste.com for a full listing. — Bakersfield Life Magazine
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A
re you ready to rumble?! Put on your athletic gear and get your mountain bike ready for the 10th anniversary of Rio Bravo Rumble — held at 9 a.m. Jan. 18 at Rio Bravo Ranch, 15701 Highway 178 — benefitting Bike Bakersfield and Calvary Chapel Westbrook’s activities for children. The walk, run or mountain bike race (the choice is yours) that runs along the beautiful, private stretch of the Rio Bravo Ranch is hosted by Glinn & Giordano Physical Therapy, and supported by groups including Clifford and Brown, Leo Mark Hinds, Paramount Citrus and Fiji Water. Races start at $35; children are free. Pre-register to get a pint glass and shirt, as supplies last. More information: 589-4209 or www.ggphysicaltherapy.com. — Eduardo Gamez
HAGGIS, TATTIES AND NEEPS, OH MY! CELEBRATE ‘SCOTLAND’S FAVORITE SON’ IN BURNS’ SUPPER
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elebrate the life and times of Scotland’s favorite son, Robert Burns, on Jan. 25, hosted by the Kern County Scottish Society. Burns’ Supper will feature traditional catered three-course faire, including Haggis, tatties and neeps, and roast beef — all in honor of the Scotsman from the 1700s and “first poet of common humanity,” according to the society. The event begins with a social hour at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. at the Junior League of Bakersfield, 1928 19th St. Ticket sales are limited to the first 100 people. Pre-sale tickets are $40, and $45 on the day of the event. Proceeds benefit the Kern County Scottish Society. More information: info@kernscot.org, kernscot.org or 865.8990. — Eduardo Gamez
MY PET
MICHAEL FLORESCASTANEDA AND MAYA
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
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ichael Flores-Castaneda and 8-year-old Maya came together after he drove to Delano to meet a breeder from Fresno. “She was the last one, the runt, and it was love at first sight,” he said. Today, Maya, a Pomerania, has cushing’s disease, which affects her glands, has caused her to lose some vision, and her coat doesn’t grow back normally. She moves slowly, often stumbles into thing, eats and drinks more, and has frequent “accidents” — all related to cushing’s disease, he said. “You’d never know it when playing with her or giving her love,” Flores-Castaneda said. “She quickly becomes the happy, spry girl she’s always been. Overall, with some extra TLC and attention, Maya has a pretty decent quality of life.” Besides caring for Maya, Flores-Castaneda, a Bakersfield native and special education teacher in the Arvin Union School District for the past 10 years, can be found running marathons, playing softball and involved with his teacher’s union. I named my pet… Maya after Dr. Maya Angelou. I know when my pet is moody when… she lays staring aimlessly. Usually just hearing me call her name perks her right up. What makes my pet happy: Any sort of attention and sticking close to my side. At the dog park, she takes very little interest in the other dogsbut rather follows closely behind me. My pet in 5 words: Lovable, hyper, spastic, prancing, loyal. Favorite game: Maya never really took to games. She mastered sit and shake, and that’s about it. She’d much rather lay next to you but isn’t one to be held or snuggled. She tenses up when someone tries to squeeze too tight. Favorite food: Bacon or peanut butter.
Michael Flores-Castaneda with his dog, Maya.
Talents: She can do a mean “sit and shake.” Antics: Maya has a unique run. It’s very light, like a prancing pony. Favorite moment: I love her face when she’s laying there still and she hears my voice, even if I’m not calling her name or talking to her. She just lights up.
BAKERSFIELD LIFE ON THE WEB
Hard-Working Man Contest Bakersfield Life would like to honor your local hard-working man — nominate him in the “Hard-Working Man Contest.” We’re asking readers to submit a photo and short paragraph (100 words max) describing what makes your guy the hardest working man in Bakersfield. Email your nomination and photo to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com and put “Hard-Working Man Contest” in the email subject line. Deadline is noon Jan. 8, and please include your nominee’s name and occupation, as well as your contact information (name, email, and best phone number
to reach you). Winner will be selected in a random drawing for a special prize. In addition, some of the nominations will be revealed in the February “Men’s Issue” of Bakersfield Life.
‘Best of’ Voting! Go to bakersfieldlife.com starting Jan. 6 to vote for your favorite restaurants, businesses and other local establishments in the 21st “Best of Bakersfield” contest. This year features 108 different categories, including new categories and longtime favorites. The results will be revealed in the May “Best of” issue of Bakersfield Life. bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
SHORT TAKES
SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, CAMPUS SHOW SUPPORT FOR AILING STUDENT
— Eduardo Gamez
Ben Martinez, middle, gets support from Principal Bill Jager, left, brother Robert Martinez, and mother Diane Proctor.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE TATE
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oodwill causes balding, at least it did for Columbia Elementary School Principal Bill Jager. When 12-year-old Columbia student Ben Martinez was stricken with rhabdomysarcoma, a type of soft tissue cancer, Jager offered his shaven head as a prize for the students if they raised $3,000 to help Ben’s family, and to help with treatment. The students exceeded the goal, reaching $5,000 by selling pediatric cancer awareness bracelets. The school received a $1,000 gift from a single donor. So off went Jager’s hair, as well as for a few of Ben’s classmates who wanted to show their support. “I'm beyond blessed,” Ben’s mother Diane Proctor told The Bakersfield Californian. More information: search “Facing Ben’s Giant” on Facebook.
WHAT I’M READING
HILDA NIEBLAS Associated Students Inc. President, Cal State Bakersfield
H
ilda Nieblas grew up in Bakersfield, attended Bakersfield College and transferred to Cal State Bakersfield where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Today, she is a graduate student in the public administration program at CSUB and serves as the Associated Students Inc. president. Through her college career, she’s learned the difference between reading for enjoyment and reading as a requirement. “Find a book that you love and lose yourself in it,” said Nieblas, whose career goal is to work in the nonprofit world. “Not only does it help you expand your imagination, but it also improves your reading speed and writing skills.” What I’m currently reading: I just started reading “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective PeoHilda Nieblas ple” by Stephen R. Covey. I would recommend this book for everyone. The author provides great insight on how to help individuals solve personal and professional problems while maintaining and living with integrity and honesty.
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Favorite author: Nicholas Sparks and Sylvia Plath. Favorite book: The book that I am currently reading definitely seems to be one of the best ones I have read so far. Book vs. tablet: I prefer books. I like the idea of being able to turn the pages in a book, rather than reading on a screen. I also enjoy writing in my books and then looking back at the things that stood out. The best part is when you buy used books and they have highlighted parts. It is very interesting to try to analyze the reasoning of the person who read it. Books I’ve read more than once: “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare. I enjoyed reading and analyzing the love story that brought them to their demise. Other materials I like reading: Newspaper and magazines to stay informed about what is happening in the world around us. Where I enjoy reading: Anywhere. However, I do really like to snuggle up with a warm blanket in the winter and read by the fireplace. The book that’s been inspirational in my life: “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie. It’s a self-help book that has inspired me to look at life in a different perspective and to focus on the most important aspects of my life.
SHORT TAKES
GOODWILL BOUNTIFUL IN THE SEASON OF GIVING
T
he holidays always bring out the philanthropists in people — and even in companies. It’s worth noting these donations made recently by companies to local causes. • Aera Energy LLC and its employees raised more than $500,000 for four local charitable organizations to mark Giving Day, Dec. 3. Recipients included United Way of Kern County, Friends of Mercy Foundation, San Joaquin Community Hospital Foundation and Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Foundation.
• Wells Fargo gave $90,000 in grants to dozens of local groups, including Dolores Huerta Foundation, Bakersfield College Foundation and 42 Kern County schools and nonprofits. • JCPenney donated $12,500 to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County’s initiative ti attract more young people to the club. • Bright House Networks gave $10,000 to the Bakersfield Museum of Art for art programs for children and adults.
BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART SEEKS DUST BOWL RECOLLECTIONS
D
o you or a relative have a Dust Bowl story to share? If so, the Bakersfield Museum of Art, in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” would like to hear it. Beginning with a stunning photographic exhibition of 20th century American photographer Horace Bristol’s work, the museum is planning several events in 2014 to coincide with the celebration of the famed novel. Bristol’s exhibition opens on Jan. 23. Bristol traveled with Steinbeck while the author was researching his iconic book, and Bristol’s work was featured prominently in Life, Time and National Geographic magazines, among others. If you have a Dust Bowl story to share, submit it by Feb. 1 to rmagnus@bmoa.org, or mail to Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. in Bakersfield, 93301. Stories should be between 300 and 500 words. Please include your name, address and phone number. Stories may be used in upcoming exhibitions highlighting Dust Bowl experiences of Kern County.
Horace Bristol’s photos of Dust Bowl migrants will be displayed at Bakersfield Museum of Art, starting Jan. 23. To read more about local resident experiences of living in Sunset Labor Camp, go to page 100. — Lisa Kimble bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
IN SEASON
TANGERINES Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
Select
C
ompared to oranges, tangerines tend to be smaller and have a looser peel, making them ideal as snacking fruit for children and on-the-go grown ups. And Kern County is home to plenty of tangerines. Though originally from Asia, mandarin oranges traveled west and the tangerine took its name from the Moroccan seaport of Tangiers. The first commercial crops in the United States were grown in Florida. But now, Arizona and California — especially in Kern County — are producers. There are three major types of tangerines from the Western growing areas: tangerines, mandarins and tangelos. Tangerines are available around Thanksgiving. Mandarins have a light orange color and a complex, sweet flavor, and varieties include Satsuma, Honey and Royal. Tangelos are a cross between a grapefruit and a tangerine. They are noted for their juiciness and mild, sweet flavor. Tangelos come in Orlando and Minneola varieties.
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January 2014
Choose firm to semi soft tangerines with deep orange color, and heavy for its size; avoid soft spots and dull or brown color.
Store Refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Fat free, saturated fat free, cholesterol free, and high in Vitamin C.
Facts • Harvests from January to March • 15,360 acres in Kern County • Valued: $194 million • Local producers: Grimmway Farms and Paramount Citrus. Quick Recipe: Skinny Margarita Ingredients: 1/4-cup silver tequila, 3
tablespoons lime juice, 2 tablespoons tangerine juice and 1 teaspoon light agave nectar. Directions: Pour silver tequila into a cocktail glass over cubed ice; combine lime and tangerine juice with tequila and ice stirring as you go; add light agave nectar last and stir until the agave nectar has dispersed cleanly; sip with a straw and enjoy. Sources: Kern County Farm Bureau, The Christian Science Monitor
FINDING FAME
EVENT PLANNER RACHEL HOLLIS
R
achel Hollis has thrown parties for Bradley Cooper, Rashida Jones and Al Gore. Some of Hollywood’s most demanding brides have entrusted their special day to her. Switching through TV channels you might see her on the Nate Berkus Show, Steve Harvey Show or Extra. How did this young woman from Bakersfield become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after event planners? The answer may surprise you. Nine years ago, when Rachel started her company, Chic Events, she had an advantage on the competition. It wasn’t celebrity connections or a big bankroll — it was her traditional Bakersfield upbringing. “I was a lot more grounded than most other people,” she said. While other planners were chasing the latest trend and trying to stay ahead of fads, Rachel focused on what she learned growing up as a minister’s daughter in a hospitable home. “Good food. Good music. A lovely drink. That’s what makes a party,” she said. Rachel moved to Los Angeles with the intention of becoming an actress. From the time she was old enough to know what goals were, Hollywood was hers. When she turned 18 in 2000, she graduated early from Highland High School and drove over the Grapevine to Hollywood to pursue her dream. Rachel was ambitious, but she had a hearty streak of practicality, too. It didn’t take her long to confront the reality that for every woman who makes it onto the big screen, there are thousands who don’t. Instead of waiting for her big break, she decided to get her hands dirty — albeit with glitter and frosting — in the world of event planning. Event planning turned out to be perfect for her skills Parties, she explained, feel a lot like theater: there is the adrenaline, the crowd, a tremendous amount of work and preparation that all lead up to one big night. Short on experience but long on ambition, Rachel often found herself improvising
Rachel Hollis
PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL HOLLIS
By Kelly Damian
her way through many difficult circumstances as she built her business. For those wanting to find out about what happens when a wedding cake breaks into pieces or to go behind the scenes with LA’s most outrageous bridezillas, her book “Party Girl” comes out this Feb. 14. Though it is a work of fiction, many of the scenes in the book are based on her experiences. Though she still plans events for a handful of clients — she will do the Sundance Film Festival in January — Rachel is shifting her focus. These days, she spends most of her time as the editor-in-chief of thechicsite.com, an online magazine that offers advice on party planning, cooking, family life and personal style. In only two years, she said the site has gained a solid following, attracting 200,000 visitors a month. Rachel’s grandparents were Okies who picked cotton to support their six children. Her earliest childhood memories are of her family’s little house in Lamont, just off Weedpatch Highway. She said she doesn’t feel she became successful in spite of her simple beginnings; in fact, it is just the opposite. “I am aware that my success is because I stand on my grandparent’s shoulders,” she said. “The greatest legacy that they gave our family was the value of hard work.” — Do you know someone from Bakersfield who is finding fame, or is representing Bakersfield while in the spotlight? Email us an idea at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the subject line: Finding Fame.
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25
Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email: bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com
UP FRONT
HAPPENINGS: Can’t-miss events in January Wed. 1 Annual Polar Bear Plunge, swimmers slide into 50 degree water, must be 7 or older, 11 a.m., McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. $5 just to plunge; $25 for sweatshirt and plunge. 852-7430.
Sat. 4 CSUB Men’s Basketball vs. Utah Valley, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $5-$20. gorunners.com or 654-BLUE.
Unplugged; 8:30 to 11 p.m., The Prospect Lounge at the Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St. Free. 4274900.
Thur. 9-Sun. 12 California Bluegrass Band Showcase, featuring Canyon Johnson, The Grasskickers, California Pearly Blue, Cliff Compton and Mountaintop. Doubletree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $15 advance, $17 at the door. cbaontheweb.org.
Fri. 10
Sat. 4Sun. 5
Disney Junior Live on Tour: Pirate & Princess Adventure, Antique Show and 3:30 and 6:30 p.m., Sale, 10 a.m. to 6 Rabobank Theater, 1001 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. Truxtun Ave. $18-$55 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Kern plus fee. County Fairgrounds, ticketmaster.com or 8001142 S P St. $5; children 745-3000. 12 and under are free. FLICS International CineEmail ma Society presents "A maryabryan@yahoo.com or 559-638-2639. Antique Royal Affair," 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 show H St. $5. flics.org or call 4280354. A Formal Affair Bridal event, noon to 4 p.m., Rabobank Conven25th annual Victim/Witness tion Center, 1001 Auxiliary Fog Run, registration 7 Truxtun Ave. $10. to 8:30 a.m., race begins 9 a.m., 399-3405. Lake Ming. $25 advance before Dec. 27; $30 day of race. Proceeds to benefit crime victims of Kern County. Visit active.com, search Brent Brown Album Release for Fog Run. Party presented by BakersBryan Mark Taylor Studio Painting Workshop, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $345. Email lsherwyn@bmoa.org or 323-7219.
Sun. 5
Sat. 11
Thur. 9
Monster X Tour $10 late fee added after that date; free kids race. ggphysicaltherapy.com or 5899066.
Sat. 18-Sun. 19 Central Coast Gun Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $10 (good for both days); children 13 and under are free; $3 parking. Visit centralcoastgunshows.com or 805-481-6726.
Pins for a Pulse, hosted by Olivia’s Heart Project; bowling, games, raffle, food, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., AMF Southwest Lanes Bowling Alley, 3610 Wible Road. $25. Visit oliviasheartproject.org.
field
Fog Run 26
Bakersfield Life Magazine
10th annual Glinn & Giordano Rio Bravo Rumble, 5/10K trail run, mountain bike duathlon, registration 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., starts at 9 a.m., Rio Bravo Ranch, 15701 Highway 178. $35-$45 by Jan. 10,
January 2014
Fri. 24-Sat. 25 Monster X Tour, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $10-$40 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.
Sat. 25 Rabbit Breeders Show, 8 a.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Building 3, 1142 S. P St. Free. 833-4917.
Thur. 23
Sat. 25-Sun. 26
CSUB Men’s Basketball, vs. Chicago State, 7 p.m., CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $5-$20. gorunners.com or 654-BLUE.
CSUB Men’s Basketball, vs. Kansas City, 7 p.m. Saturday, CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $5-$20. gorunners.com or 654-BLUE.
Thur. 16-Sat. 18
Sat. 18
H St. $5. flics.org or call 428-0354.
Flag Football Tournament, 4on-4 team, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $100-$125 per team. Registration deadline is Jan. 21. 324-0638.
Sun. 26 Prayer Breakfast 34th annual Prayer Breakfast, 6:40 a.m., Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $15. Email bakprayerbreakfast @gmail.com or 859-5600.
Weddings 2014 Bridal Show, VIP 11:30 a.m., and general admission noon to 3 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $5; $10 VIP advance only; $10 at the door for general admission only. kerncountybridalassociation.com or 633-9200.
Fri. 24
Tue. 28
FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “Happy People: A Year in the Taiga,” 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001
Tip-A-Condor, dinner served by your favorite Condors player, 5 to 8 p.m., Firehouse, 7701 White Lane, Suite A-3. $25. 324-7825.
BY THE NUMBERS
Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
I
t’s snow season! Or at least we hope the cold stuff falls plentifully this winter on the local slopes.
If it does, your closest bet for some white winter fun is Alta Sierra Ski Resort and Terrain Park, in the Kern County mountains between Isabella Lake and Glennville. More information, prices: altasierra.com. Here are some numbers and facts to get your skiing season started.
1982 Year that Alta Sierra, formerly known as Shirley Meadows Ski Area, began operation under Lew Forbes. 2003 Year that Shirley Meadows was purchased by a group of Bakersfield businessmen committed to keep skiing alive and prospering in the Kern County section of the Sequoia National Forest. 2006 Year that Shirley Meadows changed its name to Alta Sierra Ski Resort and Terrain Park to reflect the progressive attitudes and improvements made to the area.
7,100 Top elevation of Alta Sierra Ski Resort above sea level. 600 Vertical feet. 2 Ski lifts available for guests. 8 Groomed trails available. $40 Cost of an adult ticket for a full day experience. $340 Cost of season passes available to skiers age 13 and older. 20 Cabin rentals available nearest to the ski resort (within 30 minutes). 4 Lodging communities within 30 minutes of Alta Sierra Ski Resort. 80 Inches annual snowfall that can be reach. 2 Fire pits available in the resort’s “Warming Hut.” 50 Miles from Bakersfield to Alta Sierra Ski Resort. 80 Acres the resort offers to skiers. 3 Days the resort is open per week (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). 32.3 Average low in degrees during January.
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
ALTA SIERRA SKI RESORT AND TERRAIN PARK
Sources: Alta Sierra Ski Resort, altasierra.com; huffingtonpost.com
bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
15 RANDOM THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT…
KIYOSHI TOMONO Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
F
ew broadcast journalists in the ultra-competitive local TV news station sector are as respected and identifiable as KGET’s Kiyoshi Tomono. The Los Angeles-area native worked as a Washington correspondent in West Virginia before coming to Bakersfield’s KERO-TV as a reporter and photographer. He joined the Channel 17 news team in 2004, currently anchors the news shows, and is an executive producer for the station. He’s earned the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award (“Best Investigative Reporting”) from the Radio and Television Digital News Association. That’s impressive considering his major at UCLA was molecular biology. Yet, he later earned his master’s degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. Here are 15 more things you didn’t know about Tomono.
1. When I was a kid, I thought my eyebrows were too bushy so I used a pair of scissors to trim them. I wound up cutting triangles into them. 2. I speak decent Spanish. I don’t speak Japanese, but I should.
3. I published an article in a medical journal back when I wanted to be a doctor and was studying at UCLA. It looked at the effects of smoking on arteries.
8. My alarm goes off every morning at 2:20 a.m. This first thing I do is eat breakfast and read a lot of news and check social media.
9. Becoming a father has taught me a lot about myself and life. I get even less sleep.
10. Getting married opened up my world to so many things. I became an expert in reality TV and learned what a Kardashian was.
11. My wife’s first task after
4. When I was 4 years old, I had different career goals. I dreamed of cuing up the cars at the Autopia ride at Disneyland.
5. My mom saved pretty much every momento from my childhood. My son wore my outfit for his baptism.
6. My first car was a powder blue Volkswagen Squareback. I even learned to change the oil!
7. I was a certified EMT in college and worked in a hyperbaric chamber. I also taught CPR to make some money. 28
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January 2014
marriage was getting rid of my bed that I had since I was a kid. It was like a Dr. Seuss book — either my head or feet would stick out the end. She called it “The Crib.”
12. My wife says it’s hard to get me to part with a dollar. I think I’m thrifty.
13. Kiyoshi is my middle name. My first name is Christopher.
14. I’m named after my grandfather, who was interned at Heart Mountain, Wyo. during World War II. 15. A TV news executive told me when I was in college that I shouldn’t go by Kiyoshi. It was too hard for people to remember or pronounce.
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B A K E R S F I E L D M AT T E R S By Lisa Kimble
R
emember when the words “customer” and “service” went hand-in-hand to form a retail staple edict? Didn’t think so. In a day and age when we practically service ourselves during the shopping experience and we think customer relations can’t get any worse, in comes gentle reminders in the form of gift boxes and car service that all is not lost in the rough and tumble world of customer care. Maris Madigan, owner of the revered Cezanne Gallery in Bakersfield, has been delicately wrapping gifts inside of her H Street store for decades — one fold of tissue and tie of yellow ribbon at a time. You know a Cezanne gift the way you recognize a treasure from Tiffany & Co — by the box. Tiffany’s indelible blue box has withstood the test of time. Cezanne’s wasn’t so lucky. A few years back, Madigan’s supply of the glossy yellow boxes dried up. What to do? She begrudgingly tried to outfox fate and switched to white boxes, keeping her trademark yellow ribbon. Today it remains a signature of good taste and elegance. Many a bride-to-be has unwrapped a Cezanne box, stuffed with a special gift. In my former life as a hustle-andbustle career girl cramming more errands than time allowed into a lunch hour, I often grew impatient while sweet Maris lovingly wrapped my purchases. My impatience obscured part of the magic of the Cezanne experience I have grown to appreciate. It isn’t just charming, diminutive Maris, connoisseur of loveliness and graciousness, neatly folding the tissue, sealing it with the lick of a label. It is a nod to another lost art, that of conversation. Not small talk, but short chats about what prompted the purchase in the first place: life’s celebrations and milestones. In 1967, Maris and her husband, the late Todd Madigan, opened Cezanne Gallery, home to artwork and fine gifts. She has been running it elegantly since his passing 34 years ago. But when the sale is complete, don’t think for a second that your experience is over. As if carefully handing off a beloved child for adoption, Madigan insists on escorting you out to your car, even if it is a block down off busy H Street, and carrying your purchase for you! This kind of customer service is worth celebrating. You won’t find that at FoodMaxx, where you are on your own in the bagging and loading department. Walmart? Same. Department stores? Forget about it. Here and there are locally-owned shops where the interpersonal exchange of conversation and care abound, like Ice House Framing and Gallery. But Madigan has been doing this before most other pro-
CELEBRATE QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE … WHEN YOU FIND IT
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January 2014
prietors were even around. “I was brought up on customer service by my precious husband. He acted like he loved everyone, and it didn’t matter who they were,” Madigan said. “You get in return how you treat people. It’s that simple.” Bakersfield’s retail landscape today bears little resemblance to how it was in the 1960s and 1970s. Before they closed, Olcotts offered the same type of service — exquisitely wrapped gifts and supreme service to the customer. They are missed. As is Goes’s Gifts, who for many years offered the same type of customer care on Chester Avenue, around the corner from Babcock’s Books on 19th Street, where Mrs. Babcock lovingly wrapped each and every purchase. The wrapping of the item was only a means of connecting, in real time over what really mattered, however short the conversations were. Over on Baker Street in Old Town Kern, another matriarch of fine customer service Mary Griffin dealt with shoppers the way she’d seen her mother-in-law and The French Quarter Shop store founder, Blanche Mae Griffin Nelson, do. There was no sifting through racks of garments. You told them what you were looking for, and they brought items out for your perusal. Very French, very chic and couture. That’s how helping the customer was done. Same way downtown at Judd’s. So keen on being intuitive to their clients that the Griffins made note of what they sold to someone for an “event,” taking care to not sell the same dress in different sizes to several people attending the same party. And Griffin wasn’t above dropping items off at customers’ homes after hours for them to try on at their convenience. “We as a family lived and breathed The French Shop,” said Melinda Westfahl, Mary and Richard Griffin’s daughter. “From 1936, when my grandmother started and when my daddy became her partner in 1941, the thought was always about the client and their experience in shopping. We were able to make our clients feel special, and that was what it was all about.” These days, sales people are multi-tasking to the exclusion of the person in front of them. The incoming phone call gets bumped to the head of the line. May more retailers adopt the spirit of the likes of Maris Madigan and the cherished businesses before her. It’s part of why Bakersfield Matters.
Lisa Kimble
— Agree, disagree? Send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to read about to me at itmannersalot @bakersfield.com or visit itmannersalot.blogspot.com.
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D I N I N G D I VA S
Grilled cactus
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January 2014
Cactus Valley Restaurant & Cantina
The 2014 Dining Divas are, from left, Aryana Mosley, Nina Ha, Norma Diaz, Amanda Reade and Tanya Hutson.
CACTUS VALLEY RESTAURANT & CANTINA ¡Olé! New owners bring new life to Mexican gem with authentic, delicious food Photos by Greg Nichols
E
ach Sunday afternoon, Nadia Nuñez and her husband, Rigo, would take their 2-year-old son to their favorite Mexican restaurant, Cactus Valley in northwest Bakersfield. New to the United States from Sonora, Mexico, they would order mouth-watering plates of marinated beef fajitas, cheese melted over enchiladas drizzled with sauce and a table full of dishes that reminded them of home. That 2-year-old boy, Eder, is now 20. And these days, you can find him working with his parents, who are now the owners of the same restaurant they frequented for nearly two decades. With a fresh coat of yellow and green paint on the outside, but the same authentic Mexican food on the inside, Cactus Valley Restaurant & Cantina offers six separate eating areas, patio seating, kids-eat-free Mondays, senior discount Wednesdays and daily happy hour specials. The restaurant’s updated décor is rustic, Tex-Mex western with new booths, brighter colors and additional lighting for a more effervescent feel. It’s family friendly with the exception of Thursday nights, from 8 p.m. to midnight, when a DJ spins music from every genre catering to the crowd’s musical
Address: 4215 Rosedale Highway Phone: 633-1948 Facebook: Cactus Valley Mexican Restaurant Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday to Saturday Hungry for more? Check out more food photos on bakersfieldlife.com.
predilection (no cover charge). The waiters and waitresses, all fluent in Spanish, make the entire dining experience feel less Bakersfield, and more Mexico City.
APPETIZERS Nina on the mini-chimichangas: When it comes to chimichangas, you have to take a siesta on healthy eating and just go for it! Cactus Valley’s mini-changas are light, flour tortillas that envelop flavorful shredded beef deep-fried to a crispy nugget of yum, which you can then top with pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream. I usually like my food scald-your-fingers hot, but these babies were delicious even tepid. The mini-chimichangas are part of the restaurant’s appetizer sampler, but if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself reaching for the mini-changas time and again. Norma on the quesadillas: There’s not much to a quesadilla, but to have a savory one, it all starts with the cheese, like mozzarella. It was tasty and perfectly cooked, just on the edge of crispy. When topped off with some fresh guacamole and Cactus Valley’s delicious salsa, it’s all very appetizing. Tanya on the flautas: The flautas in the finger food platter were delicious; each one was a small gem of deepfried goodness. The flour tortilla was crispy, not greasy, and the ground beef filling was not too spicy for those of us who can’t take the heat! They were served with fresh guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo. I really had to restrain myself from eating all of the flautas, but I knew I had to save room for a great entrée.
ENTRÉES Aryana on the garlic shrimp: Camarones al mojo de ajo, also known as Mexican garlic shrimp, is a dish that’s sim-
Continued on page 34 bakersfieldlife.com
33
Garlic shrimp
Continued from page 33 ply delicious and left me speechless. This dish is my go-to whenever ordering Mexican food, and Cactus Valley does this entrée to perfection. The dish was served with refried beans, white rice and a corn vegetable medley. Fresh, finely chopped cilantro adds another burst of flavor accompanying the onion and garlic. If you have never tried it, you are definitely missing out on a wonderful dining experience. The owner and staff were very gracious and more than happy to serve us. Nina on the scampi a la México City: Ever since I was a kid, I’ve enjoyed seafood. My parents used to take our family to Redondo Beach where we would crack open freshly steamed crab and proceed to get our shellfish on. As an adult, I’ve grown particularly fond of shrimp scampi and order it whenever I can. Cactus Valley’s dish consists of eight sumptuous shrimp sautéed alongside fresh garlic and sliced button mushrooms with red chile pasilla strips. A hint of apple cider gives their entrée a unique quality that pleased our palates. Since we decided to share our dinners, all the ladies and I agreed that my crustaceans were the stars of evening. They’re served with white rice, steamed broccoli and fresh pico de gallo. As a self-proclaimed scampi connoisseur, I recommend eating it piping hot right as it is served for full enjoyment. Norma on the lobster fajitas: This dish had an out-ofthe-box look — not your normal fajita dish. The skillet was served sizzling with fresh veggies in a bed of rice, topped with tender lobster marinated and basted with annatto seeds and fresh orange juice. The annatto seeds come from the achiote tree and was a new flavor for me. It’s used primarily in Mexican and Caribbean cuisine to impart a rich yellow/orange color, which makes for an eye-pleasing plate. I’m picky about how mariscos are prepared, so I was excited with the taste of the marinated lobster. It was cooked to perfection, great tasting, tender and not at all fishy or chewy! The sauce was not overwhelming and definitely complemented the lobster. The extra beans with cotija cheese, fresh guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo were a plus, with portions generous enough to share. Many of us like to watch what we eat, so the healthier option would be to substitute the rice for more veggies, 34
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January 2014
and nix the flour tortillas and sour cream, which they will happily do. I find it’s easier to exclude certain items from your dish so there’s less chance of temptation this way. Amanda on the shrimp Cancun: Yummy jumbo shrimp bathed in a creamy sauce with a touch of spice, the shrimp Cancun was served with a unique veggie medley of corn, onions, peppers and broccoli. The white rice was nice to soak up the creamy sauce. Served with flour or corn tortillas, this was a delightful and comforting dish. Tanya on the grilled cactus: When dining at Cactus Valley, what are you supposed to order? Cactus, of course! I ordered the grilled cactus, one of their menu’s Mexican favorites. I must admit, I have never had cactus before, so I don’t have anything to compare it to, but it was a wonderful surprise. The cactus, having the consistency of a bell pepper but a taste similar to okra, was simply grilled with a homemade chili sauce for dipping on the side. It was served with black beans topped with a sprinkling of queso fresco and pico de gallo and a mélange of vegetables (grilled onions, corn, red bell pepper and broccoli). I would recommend the grilled cactus as an excellent healthy dinner option.
DESSERT Aryana on the deep-fried ice cream: What is deepfried ice cream, you ask? Basically, it’s a ball of vanilla ice cream covered in coconut dough and deep-fried. Then, it is topped with whipped cream and a cherry! The crust adds a crunchy texture to the ice cream, which is amazing by itself. It’s a guilty pleasure! Norma on the flan: Flan is a traditional Mexican dessert, and coming from a Mexican family, I’ve had the best. There are many versions of this smooth and creamy dessert, but I have to say Cactus Valley’s recipe draws on good flavor and texture. You would definitely want to share this delight, considering the generous serving size. Amanda on the churros: My favorite thing about the churros was the generous amount of cinnamon and sugar that it was rolled in before serving. A dollop of whipped cream added a touch of richness to the crunchy fried pastry. Tanya on the apple tart: Because I made such a wise entrée choice, I felt like I could go all out when it came to dessert. The apple tart was definitely big enough to share (although I didn’t really want to). The crust was flaky and the filling wasn’t overly sweet — just a perfect amount of sugar and cinnamon flavored the apples. It was topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. I alternated bites of the apple tart and deep-fried ice cream, and it was like eating a delectable apple pie à la mode.
DIVAS’ DECLARATION Cactus Valley serves authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere that the entire family will enjoy. This restaurant offers daily discounts, countless cocktails and mixed drinks and decadent desserts. With owners who were once patrons, they make sure you feel the love that goes into making each dish of pork carnitas, chile con queso or arroz con pollo. Stop by and let Nadia’s family and staff serve you a taste of home. This friendly and accommodating staff will make for a fun evening.
Meet the 2014 Dining Divas Amanda Reade has always enjoyed culinary arts and began cooking for her family at age 12. After graduating from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in 1997, she worked in several restaurants, including Piatti Ristorante & Bar where she was a sous chef. She is now the chef/owner of Oh So Haute Catering in Bakersfield. Aryana Mosley is the call center manager at The Bakersfield Californian and mom to the most amazing 11-year-old girl, Taliyah. She describes herself as very easy going, a great listener, a superb waffle maker, an emerging football fan and a food fanatic. She loves DIY projects, such as installing new doors and tile. For Aryana, laughter is a requirement, along with old movies and shopping.
Nina Ha is a former television news reporter and anchor who can burn a corn dog faster than you can yell, “Fire!” Thankfully, her eating skills are slightly sharper than her culinary ones. She enjoys photography, keeps a super secret private blog, eats more than her share at Bakersfield Chinese Women’s Club meetings, attends bible study at The Bridge Bible Church, and volunteers as a kindergarten room mom. She is happily married to Benjamin Ha, a family physician, and together, they have an 8-year-old daughter, Ashley, and a 6-year-old son, Ben, Jr.
Norma Diaz is the second-generation owner of the familyowned La Rosa Fruit Bars & Ice Cream. She loves children and uses La Rosa to bring smiles to their faces.
She’s interested in fitness, mostly running, to keep her “health is my wealth” attitude. She’s working her way to marathon No. 8 with a goal of 23! She loves planning her travel around running races, meeting new people and hanging out with her friends.
Tanya Hutson, a Delano native who moved to the “big city” of Bakersfield to attend college, is married to Michael Hutson and has two children: Madeline, 12, and Jenner, 9. She is primarily a stay-at-home mom but also provides technical writing and safety consulting services to the oilfield industry as the owner of Safety & Environmental Solutions. Her pastimes include volunteering at her children’s school, enjoying good food and drink, exercising to work off all of that good food and drink, working on her 1930s home, doing a lot of laundry and pondering how a family of four can produce so many dirty clothes on a daily basis.
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FOOD AND WINE
By Mark Nessia
I
t is a trial of endurance, drive and stamina that will test one’s threshold for pain and ability to perform under pressure. It’s not for the weak-willed or the faint of heart — only the courageous, the determined and the really, really hungry. These are the eating challenges at restaurants around Bakersfield. From burgers and burritos, to chicken wings or pizza, these foods that will overload your taste buds and fill your stomach just as quickly. Some are heavyweights, intimidating challengers with their size, while others are few in number but pack a serious punch. Many have tried, few have succeeded. Will you?
5 LOCAL FOOD CHALLENGES Paramount pizza, wicked wings, big burritos and burgers test local endurance eaters
Cataldo’s Pizzeria: The Brooklyn ($44.99)
The Brooklyn pizza challenge is the creation of owner Richard Morales, who thought it would be a nice hook to increase business. He took notes from an episode of the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” that featured a pizza challenge, and the rest was history. The Brooklyn starts
Cataldo’s Brooklyn pizza
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January 2014
Maxwell Wilson attempts to eat the 11-pound Brooklyn pizza in one hour at Cataldo’s on Niles Street.
Arturo’s Mucho Grande Burrito, right, compared to the La Mina Burrito.
Just Wing It’s Crybaby Wings.
with 5 pounds of dough and is topped by three pounds of cheese and five meats totaling three pounds — pepperoni, sausage, hamburger, bacon and linguica. Challengers work in pairs and have 60 minutes to eat the entire pizza. No trips to the restroom are allowed and both contestants must “hold it down” for five minutes after completion. Completing the challenge covers the price of the pizza, and nets the winners $100. But no one has ever completed this particular challenge. More than 14 dozen have attempted the challenge and all have left full-bellied and empty-handed. Variations of the pizza challenge can be found at other Cataldo’s locations, but the one on Niles Street is the only one to maintain a perfect record. “The napkins here serve two purposes,” Morales said. “The first is to clean your face, and the second is to wave and surrender.” Just Wing It, Crybaby Wings ($13.99)
While some places feature challenges with enough food to feed an entire family, Just Wing It’s Crybaby Challenge is smaller in stature — 10 wings in five minutes. The catch? The wings are covered in Just Wing It’s Cryba-
by sauce — a sauce so hot it’s not listed on the regular menu and a liability waiver is required before someone can take the challenge. Ten times hotter than the hottest sauce on the menu (Dead Man Walking), the Crybaby sauce is a secret four-ingredient blend of spices, one of which is habanero powder. Challengers are prohibited from drinking anything during the consumption portion of the challenge, and the fiveminute “after burn” period that follows. Only one in 10 actually complete the challenge. Most people average three to four wings before throwing in the towel in exchange for a beverage. Making it through the challenge results in free wings, an “I Survived the Crybaby Challenge” Tshirt, and a photo and shout out on the “Wall of Flame” on Just Wing It’s Facebook page. This challenge is not for everybody. You have to be able to handle extremely hot and spicy food. “It’s not about quantity,” general manager Marc Beckwith said. “It’s about the heat and the sauce.” The challenge is offered on Fridays at Just Wing It’s Panama location.. La Mina Mexican Restaurant: Arturo’s Mucho Grande Burrito ($11.99 per burrito)
La Mina’s Arturo’s Mucho Grande Burrito is a challenge that has to be completed not once, not twice, but three times to claim victory. Named after La Mina founder Arturo Ruiz, the challenge consists of a three-pound burrito made with two king-size tortillas stuffed with pot beans, rice and meat of choice (carnitas, shredded beef, chicken, ground beef or carne asada). The burrito is topped with salsa ranchera and cheese and served with pico de gallo, sour cream and guacamole. Eating one burrito results in a well-fed customer, but no
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Bartender Jordan Dunn holds the Big Bad Bull Shed Burger platter, which includes three pounds of fresh Angus beef and three pounds of seasoned fries.
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SUPERIOR ROOFING Continued from page 37 prize is given. Eating a second covers the cost of the burritos and eating a third covers the cost of all three burritos and awards $50. “People can eat one, but they’re doubting it by the second burrito,” Ana Ruiz said. “The third one does them in.” Ana has never seen anyone complete the challenge. Offering a prize after finishing the second burrito presents a unique twist to the challenge. Participants are faced with the decision to quit while they’re ahead or gamble for a chance at history. Challengers must choose wisely as committing to a third burrito forfeits the two-burrito accomplishment.
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The Bull Shed: Big Bad Bull Shed Burger ($21.95)
When the Bull Shed Bar & Grill opened in 2010, the owners wanted a signature dish that was also a challenge. Enter the Big Bad Bull Shed Burger — a mouthful name for a mouthful burger. Buns made fresh daily are specially designed to support three pounds of fresh Angus beef patties, which are topped with lettuce, tomato, onions and mayonnaise and served with three pounds of seasoned french fries. Cheese is extra.
Continued on page 40
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Continued from page 39 Challengers have 45 minutes to clear their platters for a chance to win a Bull Shed T-shirt and have the cost of the burger covered. The challenge presents multiple obstacles. The burger itself is stacked high, and the amount of chewing required will take its toll on one’s jaws. Even if the burger is consumed, three pounds of fries await. General manager Jim Hanratty suggests cutting the burger into quarters and eating one quarter at a time while chipping away at the mountain of fries. “It’s a lot of food,” Hanratty said. “Try to moderate eating the burger and the french fries.” About 10 of 30-plus challengers have successfully completed the challenge. Hooters: Annual Wings-Eating Competition
Erick Valencia won the Bakersfield championship wing-eating contest on July 25.
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annual wing-eating contest. Groups of 10 are given 10 minutes to eat as many traditional Hooters chicken wings as they can. Bones are weighed at the end of the competition with the lightest pile declared the winner. Contests are typically held in the summer, but those who are interested can sign up by visiting their local Hooters. The winner of each local qualifier is given a Hooters T-shirt signed by the local Hooters girls, free lunch for a week from Hooters’ “Lunch Escape” menu and an opportunity to compete in the local finals. The winner of the finals receives another signed Hooters T-shirt and a free weekend stay at the Hooters Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Local and regional champs are also given an opportunity to compete against Major League Eaters in Hooters’ national competition. Events are expected to take place late June and mid-July.
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FOODIE
Jenny Purewal combines her passion for cooking and travel. 42
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JENNY PUREWAL Globe-trotting foodie enjoys exploring cuisines in search of new recipes for her family. By Hillary Haenes
Photos by April Massirio
J
enny Purewal loves to combine her two passions — cooking and traveling the world. She enjoys trying new foods when exploring different countries and discovering recipes to try at home for her family. Living in La Ciotat, France for three months out of a year, Purewal favors making French cuisine and vegan dishes. And being able to provide her husband and children a home-cooked meal nearly every night is important to the 47year-old stay-at-home wife and mother. She likes to see the looks of her loved ones’ faces as they taste something she’s prepared with care, she said. “My husband is very addicted to my food, and if we do decide to take a night off and go out for dinner, he spends the entire time comparing it to my cooking, which makes me laugh,” she said. “And then I say, ‘At least I don’t have dishes tonight’.”
Puffed pastry pizza bites are ready.
COOKING ADVICE I developed an interest in cooking when… I was in my 30s. I traveled to France and discovered the many different sauces that they use and fell in love! I started out by trying different French sauces, which led to pastries and desserts. Every time I go to the Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport, the first stop I make is a little pastry place called Ladurée. I just love their macarons. What friends say about my cooking: My friends are always surprised at my cooking because it’s kind of a little secret that I keep and only let it out when I invite them over for a dinner. They say, “Jenny, Why haven’t you ever told us you can cook like this?” Everything goes better with… Butter, heavy whipping cream, fresh garlic and also red wine. I always mess up: My mother and sister’s chocolate pie recipe — only they have that recipe down to perfection. It was my grandma’s recipe passed down to them, and I rely on my big sis or mom to make it at all of the major holiday parties. I rock at making… Lemon chicken with quinoa and vegetables. My go-to ingredient: Fresh garlic. I buy this in bulk: Vegetables. Right now, I am perfecting veggie and fruit smoothies. One of my cooking secrets: My salad dressing recipe.
Continued on page 44
Jenny Purewal adds garnish to her stuffed porcini mushrooms. bakersfieldlife.com
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Continued from page 43 I won’t give it out and it wows my guests. An ingredient I like to use: Garlic in my meat and veggie recipes not only for the wonderful aroma and taste, but it’s also very healthy for you. If I could spend a day with a famous chef, it would be: French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, who cooked for the Rothschilds family. I am very impressed with his food, and the fact that he was self-trained and now runs one of the top 25 culinary schools in the world.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE I love cooking in my kitchen because: It is very big and I have my wonderful Thermador cook top that has gas flames and two large double ovens. Go-to cookbooks: I use the Internet if I’m looking up a recipe. Favorite cooking show: “The Barefoot Contessa.” Ingredient I dislike: Chili sauce.
GLOBE-TROTTING
Jenny Purewal places her stuffed mushrooms on a platter.
I find inspiration to create new dishes by… Traveling. I will walk around the marché (French outdoor markets) and see the different food vendors and steal their ideas and make them my own. Favorite cuisine: I don’t really have one favorite cuisine. I love all types of food with French being my first choice, but I also enjoy Thai, Indian and Mexican food. Favorite local restaurant: Singha Thai on California Avenue. It’s a weekly gathering lunch spot for my best friends
Directions: Sauté the sausage till done, and set it aside. Mix together the two cheeses, jalapeno peppers and garlic then lightly toss with the meat mixture. Stuff cleaned mushrooms with filling and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until browned. Sprinkle the parsley on top and pepper if desired. (I will sometimes squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on top.)
Puffed Pastry Pizza Bites
Stuffed Porcini Mushrooms Ingredients 1 cup sausage 1/2 cup parmigiana cheese, grated 1/2 cup pecorino cheese, grated 1/2 diced jalapeno peppers (more if you like hot) 2 cloves chopped garlic Chopped parsley or green onion (optional to sprinkle on top) 15 to 18 porcini mushrooms (For larger portions, use portobello mushrooms and double the recipe.)
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Ingredients Puffed pastry dough, thawed 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese 4 tablespoons dry parmigiana cheese 2 heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced and drained in a paper towel 4 cloves chopped garlic 2 teaspoons olive oil Sprigs of sage Directions: Thaw out dough and spread on a cookie sheet, then sprinkle cheese evenly on top and cover with tomatoes. Place sprigs of sage as you like for taste and color. Sprinkle garlic all over evenly and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until browned. Cut into bitesize pieces and serve.
and I. We always order the chicken pad thai, chicken fried rice and cashew nut chicken. Best food memory: A place I visited in Hvar, Croatia while attending a friend’s wedding. We ate at a restaurant and they served the best pastry breads and chicken with veggies. I really want to return so I can hunt down the chef and ask him how he does the breads! Most expensive meal: It was actually in October when I went to Las Vegas and ate at a restaurant in The Bellagio Hotel called Michael Mina. It was $700 for two people, and I ordered the rack of lamb. It was amazing! Weirdest food I like: Wasabi peas.
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS Always in the fridge: Cream for my coffee. I can’t stand coffee with that weird, fake creamer! I’m addicted to: Carmel corn and Rice Krispies Treats! Comfort food: My sister’s soup and French bread. Party food: Little French pizzas that I make out of puffed pastry dough (see recipe). Celebratory food: Steak and a nice glass of red wine. Splurge at the grocery store: Buying expensive cuts of meat like filet mignon to cook for the family. The single tastiest thing I’ve eaten this month: My homemade spinach soup and crostini covered in olive oil and garlic rub.
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PHOTO BY MICHAEL LOPEZ
COOKING WITH CHEF ROBERT
Chef Robert Alimirzaie is executive chef at the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield.
A DELICIOUS START TO THE NEW YEAR Tips from the chef: Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring and tasteless By Robert Alimirzaie
Editor’s note: Chef Robert Alimirzaie is a new columnist who will contribute a regular column on cuisine and local people.
N
ew Year is time to celebrate life and challenge ourselves with healthy living resolutions. Healthy living starts with eating healthy. And healthy food does not have to mean boring and tasteless. Here are some keys for making good, healthy food: • Eat what you like but stay open minded to new ideas. • Stay seasonal. Fresh foods that need to travel long dis-
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Bakersfield Life Magazine
January 2014
tances usually will lack quality. • Purchase quality ingredients. It is impossible to make great food with low quality products. • Always have different variety of fresh products available. • Make it fun.
COOK WITH GOOD SENSE Cooking is considered to be an art. It involves creativity and a sense of taste of the person who is preparing a particular dish. And great cooking requires good sense. It is the sense that makes one aware of the ingredients that are to be blended in exact quantity and the right moment of the cooking. Almost everyone has got their own choice and taste in food. Some like it spicy, while some prefer it light. Strive to make your recipes simple but also think of presentation. Cutting vegetables or other items in an artistic fashion is one example. Also freshness is equally important and one way to determine freshness is to judge through the fragrance. — Robert Alimirzaie is the executive chef and operations manager at the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield .
Southwestern style spaghetti squash 1 medium spaghetti squash 2 teaspoons olive or corn oil 1/2 cup red onion, chopped 1 jalapeño chili, seeded, minced 1/2 cup red pepper, chopped 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained well 1/2 cup sweet corn, frozen or fresh 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/3 cup cilantro, minced 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 teaspoon sea salt Directions: Roast squash in a 375 degrees oven for 50 minutes until tender or cut squash in half and place in a microwave dish with 1/2 inch of water, lightly covered with plastic wrap for 20 minutes on high until tender. Cool. When cool, scoop flesh from squash halves leaving the shell intact for stuffing. For the filling, heat oil in a large pan and sauté red onion, jalapeño chili and red pepper for 2 minutes. Add beans, corn and chili powder; sauté 1 minute longer. Add cooked squash, cilantro, lime juice and salt, cook 1 minute until heated through. Fill squash halves with filling, mounding mixture in the center.
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E N T E R TA I N M E N T
COUNTDOWN TO A
NEW YEAR Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace will be rockin’ on New Year’s Eve with Mento Buru and Stampede. 48
Bakersfield Life Magazine
January 2014
Club craziness? Low key and elegant? Classic party? Bring in 2014 just the way you like with a variety of celebrations being hosted around town By Eduardo Gamez
W
here you celebrate the New Year can make all the difference. Luckily, Bakersfield is host to an abundance of New Year’s Eve celebration options without having to wander too far. Here are just a few:
EVE ‘UNDER THE STARS’ The Padre is a prime hotspot in Bakersfield, so why not celebrate at an establishment hailed for its chic vibe? In the heart of Bakersfield, The Padre boasts fine dining and a one-of-a-kind club experience only found in downtown Bakersfield. The theme for this New Year’s Eve celebration is “New Year’s Under the Stars.” A $100 ticket to this reservation-only event gets you a dinner in The Belvedere and four different dance venues to enjoy. Move from venue to venue freely — floors open at 8 p.m. Various VIP services will be offered, too. Reservations can be made online or at the hostess stand. — The Padre Hotel: 1702 18th St., 427-4900, thepadrehotel.com.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
LOW KEY AND ELEGANT Looking for a low-key, elegant New Year’s? Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar will be hosting two separate seating times, at 6 and 8 p.m. The first seating is $48 per person, and features a four-course dinner. The second seating is $75 per person and boasts a six-course dinner. It is open to all ages, and the restaurant remains open until the New Year has officially begun. — Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar: 3310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160, 864-0397, valentienrestaurant.com.
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CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar will feature two seating times on New Year’s Eve.
Continued from page 49
CLASSIC CELEBRATION Spend your New Year’s Eve at a classic Bakersfield staple. The Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace celebration begins at 6 p.m. and will feature two bands to keep the party going all night: Mento Buru and Stampede. A $75 ticket includes reserved seating and a four-course dinner, champagne toast and party favors. The dinner lasts until 9 p.m.
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A $40 ticket gets you in at 8:45 p.m. and includes dancing, party favors and a good time until the lights come on. Tickets can be purchased at vallitix.com — Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 2800 Buck Owens Boulevard, 328-7560, buckowens.com.
CLUB TO THE NEW YEAR Party your way to a New Year inside of Club Odyssey at the Double Tree Hotel. A live band will play the hits for partygoers as soon as the
Continued on page 52
EVENTS AFTER EVE Manage to start the New Year without a New Year’s Eve headache? Kick off the Jan. 1 with one of these local New Year’s Day events. Start the New Year fresh and revived. Perhaps there’s no better way to do just that than to submerse into frigid water. McMurtrey Aquatic Center, at 1325 Q St., will host its annual Polar Bear Plunge at 11 a.m Jan. 1. Cost is $5 and $25 for a sweatshirt. Order in advance as quantities are limited. More information: 852-7430, www.bakersfieldswim.us/events.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
POLAR BEAR PLUNGE
BLOOD DRIVE FOR TROOPS Start off with goodwill by donating blood to honor our troops at Houchin Community Blood Bank, 5901 Truxtun Ave. The all-day drive is hosted by Blue Star Moms and focuses on sharing pride and devotion for the sons and daughters in the military. The Moms will also be collecting personal care and snack items to send to overseas military personnel, and to give the service members a “taste of home.” More information: hcbb.com or 323-4222.
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HILLA KILLA KLASSIC For local walkers, hikers or runners, take part in the Hilla Killa Klassic organized by Andy Noise, coach of the Bakersfield Distance Project. Hilla Killa meet-up starts at 8 a.m. on New Year’s Day at the corner of West Bluff Court and Panorama Drive followed by the walk, hike or run of the 5.2-mile Killa Hilla course at the Bluffs. Laps must completed by 4 p.m., and you can do however many you desire. There is no entry fee, aid stations or awards; however, it’s a chance to meet up with other walkers, hikers and runners ringing in the New Year on a healthy note. More information: Search “Killa Hilla Klassic” on Facebook, or email Andy Noise at andynoise@yahoo.com.
KERN WHEELMEN NEW YEAR’S DAY RIDE For years, local cyclist have started the New Year by gathering at Beach Park and riding up Round Mountain Road. The group is typically large and breaks up into subgroups of varying skill levels. However, all participants regroup at the top of the climb for hot chocolate and a snack before continuing around the loop or turning around and heading back to town. The out-and-back trip is about 30 miles, while the complete loop is about 40. The free ride leaves Beach Park at 10 a.m.
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Continued from page 50 doors open at 9 p.m. New Year’s Eve. Cover charge is $15, and various drink specials will be offered throughout the night. And guests will receive a goodie bag of New Year’s gear. Come dressed to impress! — Double Tree Hotel: 3100 Camino Del Rio Court, 323-7111.
BIG PARTY, BIG MONEY Not worried about a short drive for a big party, or want a chance to win some money? Then Eagle Mountain Casino may be the place for you. The casino is hosting a New Year’s Eve party starting at 4 p.m. and ending at 2 p.m. on New Year’s Day. A total of $50,000 will be given away to those enrolled in the Summit Club, and five guests each hour will be selected to win $1,000. A buffet special with prime rib will be offered for just $15, and The River Steakhouse will be serving a chicken dinner for $25 from 4 to 11 p.m. — Eagle M ountain Casino:681 S Tule Reservation Road in Porterville,559-788-6220, eaglem tncasino.com .
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Ride a bike to work
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HOMETOWN HERO
Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
Photos courtesy of Vint Dockery
V
int J. Dockery, a graduate of South High School, served in the U.S. Air Force for more than 20 years. Today, he teaches at Park University at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas and online classes with the University of Phoenix. Vint and his wife Denise have been married 20 years and met at Lackland while both were serving as military training instructors. Both retired with the rank of E-7 master sergeant. Why I joined: My father served four years with the U.S. Army. I felt it was a great place to serve my country, start a career, go see new places and complete my education. Where I was stationed/deployed: My first base was Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, then Lackland and Randolph Air Force bases in Texas. I was deployed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. My favorite job as a service member: The one that I learned the most about personality traits, leading, managing, coaching, mentoring, and supervising was as a military training instructor at Lackland.
VINT J. DOCKERY
U.S. Air Force, E-7 master sergeant (retired)
Vint J. Dockery, a graduate of South High School, with his wife Denise, both of whom retired from the U.S. Air Force with the rank of E-7 master sergeant.
Vint J. Dockery celebrates with his colleagues in the U.S. Air Force.
Favorite place visited as a service member: I really cannot pick one place as the military allows you to meet so many good people from different places. Through some of these meetings, I was able to travel to nearly 30 states. Biggest accomplishment: Academically, I graduated with a master’s degree in human resource development and also in management from Webster University. Professionally, while in the military, making the rank of E-7 master sergeant. Greatest challenge: Serving my country in a war zone. It changes your view of life in general. When you come back, you realize if you have plans, goals and dreams, you better 54
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hurry up and get them done. What I miss about Bakersfield: Family and friends; however, I am able to keep in touch through Facebook, Skype, email, and, of course, by phone. What I miss most about the Air Force: The people in the Air Force are outstanding. Having that sense of team pride, commitment and dedication is something I will always miss. Most important thing the Air Force taught me: Things are changing all of the time, so never stop learning or achieving. Your life should be in the state of nonstop selfimprovement, just like the military. What I do in my spare time: I like to work out at my gym in the CrossFit classes, heavy bag classes and I like walking. Also, being involved in the community is very important to me. New Year plans: I recently graduated from Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service with the designation of certified safety and health official for the general industry and for the construction industry. I am working on the oil and gas certification and will finish in January 2014. — Do you know a Kern County resident who has served honorably in the military, or is currently serving? Email us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Hometown Hero. Please include an email, phone number and/or Facebook link to reach the nominee.
Bak. Mazda 13293991
ON THE ROAD
2014 MAZDA6
Bakersfield Life assistant managing editor Jorge Barrientos drives the 2014 Mazda6.
Mazda6 boasts safety, fuel economy, affordability and chic new look that make it a winner — and it has the awards to prove it By Jorge Barrientos
Photos by Michael Lopez
A
little trivia: Which car took first place in Car and Driver’s 2014 “family sedans” category? I’ll help you out: The 2014 Mazda6.
“It surpasses the class norms of packaging, price, fuel economy and refinement,” according to Car and Driver. “But its driving dynamics, acceleration, and interior and exterior design ultimately set it apart from the herd.” For its 2014 models, Mazda redesigned its Mazda6 and Mazda3, and it’s a change that has car critics raving (Mazda CX received a redesign last year). Other awards for the 2014 Mazda6 already include: • No. 1 in the “Affordable Midsize Cars” category by U.S. News Rankings & Reviews • “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the highest result a vehicle can earn. • Popular Science Magazine’s annual “Best of What’s New” awards in the “auto” category. • Popular Mechanics’ “Car of the Year” 56
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The Mazda6 comes with a push-button start, 5.8-inch display with a back-up camera, navigation and Bluetooth, among tons of other neat tech features.
The i-ELOOP recharging system and SKYACTIV engine technology give the Mazda6 impressive mileage. Driving dynamics, acceleration, and interior and exterior set the Mazda6 apart from the herd, according to Car and Driver.
It’s all in the details Mileage: 40 mpg combined
“The Mazda6 really impressed us with how well it delivers so many things modern car owners want: great mileage, fun roadhandling, upscale features and looks — and remarkable value,” Popular Mechanics stated. The detailed reasons for the bountiful and impressive accolades are numerous. In short, the car offers all the safety and fuel economy you need, while remaining a fun-to-drive vehicle. The Mazda6 is powered by a 2.5-liter, inline four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque — up from last year’s model — with a fuel economy rating of 28 in the city, and 40 on the highway. According to Mazda, its i-ELOOP recharging system delivers a 5-percent boost to fuel economy, and these days, every bit helps. This, combined with its SKYACTIV engine technology, gives the car the impressive mileage. And I can tell you, the Mazda6 drives like a champ with nice suspension, good response and clean control around corners. Outside of the hood, the car takes a luxury and premium look borrowed from the Aston Martin and Jaguar’s of the world, said Michael Sanchez, Mazda sales consultant. The lines and shape are an adaptation of the Takeri concept car seen in international auto shows, with a design theme Mazda calls “KODO soul of motion.” It’s fitting. Exterior features include LED and halogen lights, dual exhaust with chrome tips and loads of options, including a sun roof. For safety, it boasts a “Smart City Brake Support” Forward Obstruction Warning and Lane Departure Warning System. Inside, the Mazda6 comes with a push-button start, 5.8-inch display with a back-up camera, navigation and Bluetooth, among tons of other neat tech features. Control your entire car world with the steering controls. My test drive model included an 11-speaker Bose system and Sirius Satellite Radio. “A lot try to match up, but none have the complete package that Mazda has now,” Mazda’s Sanchez said. The warranty is apt, too — 36-month, 36,000-mile bumper-tobumper; 60-month, 60,000-mile powertrain and 24-hour roadside. In all, the Mazda has improved its looks without sacrificing economy, practicality or value. Simply, Mazda has raised the bar.
Price tag: Starting at $20,990 (Test drive Grand Touring with GT Technology package: $32,770)
What makes the 2014 Mazda6 stand out from others? “Conviction, creativity and courage,” stated by Mazda, is exactly what makes the new 2014 Mazda6 stand out. The Mazda’s KODO “soul in motion” design makes the Mazda6 stand out with creativity, class and an impression that will make you look twice. The power, performance and fuel-efficiency through Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV technology gives the 2014 Mazda6 the courage and conviction like no other. Plus, the intuitive technology provides instinctive safety that makes the 2014 Mazda6 a “top safety pick” car, rated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Another key award that makes the Mazda6 stand out is the “Car of the Year” title given by Popular Mechanics, an award-winning special interest magazine covering the best of today’s technologies and beyond. In all, the 2014 Mazda6 stands out from the rest of the competition with its luxury feel, classy design and breakthrough state-of-the-art technology that matches up with today’s premium vehicles, like the Aston Martin Vanquish and Jaguar F-Type. So why not drive with class and luxury at an affordable price?
5 best features: 1. SKYACTIV technology 2. KODO “soul of motion” design 3. i-ACTIVSENSE 4. Multi-information display 5. Luxury seating
Target customer: The Mazda6 not only tends to target mainly Generation X customers, but with its design reimagined and category redefined, the target is put to a whole new level, which now aims toward Generation X, Y and Z customers.
The 2014 Mazda6 is perfect for… Customers who deserve nothing less than the best in quality, performance, fuel economy, safety, reliability and value all around.
What do you like most about the 2014 Mazda6? One thing truly sums up everything I love about the Mazda6 — it’s a car that’s not just beautiful, but inspirational. Glancing at it, you feel an immediate bond, a desire to get in and enjoy driving together. The new 2014 Mazda6 puts the “zoom, zoom” in the Mazda name. Source: Ali Kargaran, General Manager, Love Automotive Group
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ON THE ROAD
2014 FORD EXPLORER
Bakersfield Life Magazine editor Olivia Garcia showcases the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport.
Explorer powers up safety, performance and style with plenty of features for couples and growing families By Olivia Garcia
Photos by April Massirio
F
or quite some time, I had been curious about the 2014 Ford Explorer. Having four sons, my husband and I have found ourselves limited in what kind of car could easily accommodate the six of us. Meanwhile, I had seen the Ford Explorer around town, and I was impressed with its look and style. The new Ford Explorer has undergone a major makeover, moving away from its somewhat boxy, comfy and safe look to a more eye-catching, bold, powerful and luxurious feel. Adding to my interest was a business blog from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, which reported that the yearly owner satisfaction ratings from Consumer Reports ranked Ford Explorer among the top. My curiosities, of course, centered around the details. I mean, we can all agree that we can’t judge a book by its cover, so I was curious in what the inside of the Ford Explorer had to offer. When Kyle Galaz of Jim Burke Ford contacted me to see if
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I was interested in testdriving the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport 4WD, I was pretty jazzed. Indeed, I wanted to know if this midsize SUV could handle my family — and yes, it did. And I have two elementary school-aged boys and two growing teenagers who have passed me up in size, and are a tad behind their dad. I like to gauge testdrive reactions from my teenagers — we all know Manage Bluetooth devices how very opinionated and more from the Ford teenagers are, and mine Explorer’s center console. immediately loved the car. They hopped in the middle row bucket seats (this Ford Explorer seats six), and the little guys sat in the third-row seating. However, the Ford Explorer can seat up to seven depending on the seating style you pick. In addition, if you want less seating, the back row folds down, allowing you to make more space for travel or gear items, as we parents of active sports kids truly under-
The new Ford Explorer has undergone a major makeover, moving to a more eyecatching, bold, powerful and luxurious feel.
stand. My teenagers also liked the Sony 12-speaker audio system and the entertainment center’s Bluetooth capability so they could, of course, play their music from their iPhones. I learned that the Sony system comes with a HD Radio Technology, which allows you to tag songs for purchase later from iTunes store. The boys also liked the ability to control the air-conditioning and heating system from the back seats. The same feature is offered for the front-seat passenger. But an even bigger incentive is the cooling and heating seats for the front two seats. You can imagine what a battle it was for my teenagers to fight for the front passenger each time. I test-drove the Ford Explorer during Bakersfield’s chilly winter temperatures, and I was amazed how fast the temperature control system works, as well as the heating seats. Once you get your hands on heating seats, you won’t want to go back. While my boys were in awe of the technology, the roomy interior and leather seating, I was impressed with other features, including safety and power. Now, I don’t like to speed, but this Ford Explorer comes with 365 horsepower and a V6 EcoBoost engine. It drives with so much ease, smooth handling and power. Driving my older SUV feels top heavy at times, but I don’t get this feeling at all with the Ford Explorer. Highway and freeway driving has never been easier to cruise through, and you have driving modes designed to specifically handle snow, sand and mud. As far as safety, this is my favorite topic. The Ford Explorer comes with adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system, the reverse camera and sensor, and an alert sensor for your blindspots. In addition, the second row seats have inflatable seatbelts designed to protect children if an accident were ever to occur. And if credibility is important, Galaz tells me that law enforcement agencies, such as the California Highway Patrol, are now using the Ford Explorer on patrol. “That speaks volume of reliability, performance and style,” Galaz said. He added that the biggest buyers of the Ford Explorer are former owners of Range Rover, Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz. The Explorer comes in four models: Limited, Sport XLT and base. Galaz describes the Ford Explorer as having good looks, power, comfort and convenience. “(Customers) like the price, and it appeals to the high-end family,” said Galaz, noting that the average price for a Ford Explorer is between mid $40s to low $50s.
Highway and freeway driving has never been easier, featuring driving modes to handle snow, sand and mud.
It’s all in the details Mileage: 16 city, 22 highway. Price tag: Starting at $42,780. What makes the 2014 Ford Explorer stand out from others? Our V6 Ecoboost out performs the V8 competition, inflatable second row seatbelts, better towing capacity at 5,000 pounds, Powerfold third row and powerfold second row seats and a truly advanced 4WD system. Three words that define the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport 4WD: Stunning, surprising, fearless. 5 best features: 1. EcoBoost 3.5-liter, 365 horsepower engine 2. Ability to comfortably seat seven 3. Adaptable to all terrains via the Terrain Management System 4. Killer looks 5. Loaded with technology Target customer: Families coming from high-end competitive makes and models, performance seekers, anyone who wants the highest end with our low Ford pricing. The 2014 Ford Explorer is perfect for… Anyone looking for a roomy, high performance, high quality, fully loaded vehicle that you save thousand of dollars on compared to the competition. What do you like most about the 2014 Ford Explorer? The fact that a family can own a high-end vehicle without paying the high-end price, and that it’s from an American Company that has been around for 110 years. Source: Kyle Galaz, New Vehicle Sales, Jim Burke Ford Downtown
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WHY I LIVE HERE
MARIA PERRONE
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Bakersfield College professor, native Italian finds touch of Europe in downtown scene
Maria Perrone, a native Italian, is a professor of mathematics at Bakersfield College.
Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
I
n Italy, taking a walk, or “passeggiata,” is a way of life — to get out of the house, window shop, meet friends and have a chat, said Maria Perrone, a Bakersfield College professor of mathematics. Residing in Bakersfield doesn’t stop this native Italian from continuing the tradition here, and downtown Bakersfield is a fine area for just that. “I take a ‘passeggiatas’ in Bakersfield on First Fridays,” she said. “I wish downtown were so lively more often!” Perrone moved to California in late 2004 after getting married and lived in the Bay Area for a year. She moved to Kern County in 2005, when she worked at Cerro Coso Community College in Ridgecrest, and in 2006, she came to Bakersfield. She lives with her 5-year-old son in northeast Bakersfield. Hometown: Matera, Italy. About my job: I teach mathematics at Bakersfield College. I love my job, and I find the community college to be the perfect fit for me. My neighborhood: I live very close to my workplace. My neighborhood is quiet, and my front yard constantly populated with kids playing with my boy, or just having fun on the swing. Fact: I studied classical ballet seriously throughout my teenage years and consistently at the amateur level until my son was born in 2008. Dance is something that I will always cherish inside me, and although I do not actively practice it anymore, I keep my interest in it alive by going to dance per-
formances whenever I can. Although I hold a degree in mathematics, I have always been keen on art (especially figurative arts). When I was younger, I loved to paint and draw freehand and was a good cartoonist. Favorite thing in Bakersfield: First Friday downtown. That’s when the city’s downtown becomes lively and charming, and it reminds me of the streets of European cities. It would be wonderful if downtown were so busy and vivacious more often because it really brings up a sense of community. What surprised me most about Bakersfield: What I absolutely did not know when I first moved here was learning about the bad air quality. On the other hand, I was also positively surprised to learn about the active art community and the great hockey team! Favorite restaurant: Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar downtown. Toughts on local Italian restaurants: The ones that come closer to being authentic, in my opinion, are Frugatti’s Italian Eatery and Uricchio’s Trattoria. How I would describe Bakersfield to outsiders: When I moved to Bakersfield from Ridgecrest, I felt like I was moving to a big city, but I would now describe it as a large town, where life is not too fast or hectic, traffic is pretty decent and people are nice. Overall, it’s not bad at all. — Do you know someone from outside of town, state or country who now calls Bakersfield home, and is proud of it? Please let us know. Email us a name and contact information to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Why I Live Here. bakersfieldlife.com
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A L L-S TA R AT H L E T E
By Stephen Lynch
C
onsidering everything that Bryce Hammond has accomplished during his highly successful wrestling career, nothing seems beyond his reach. Not even winning a NCAA Division I title in the 174-pound weight class, which is the redshirt sophomore’s goal for this season. Hammond has plenty of reason to believe he has the capability to achieve such a lofty objective. Last year, he won the 174-pound weight class at PAC-12 Championships and ended the season with an impressive 3410 record. “It’s the toughest weight in the country, but my goal is to win a national title and another PAC-12 title,” Hammond said. “I just have to keep improving as the season goes on.” Before coming to CSUB, Hammond was one of the top high school wrestlers in the nation, going 74-0 in winning back-to-back CIF State Wrestling Championships his junior and senior seasons at Bakersfield High. Following his second state title, Hammond, who was ranked No. 1 in the nation at 160-pounds, was selected to wrestle in the prestigious Dapper Dan Wrestling Classic, where he beat No. 3ranked Travis McKillop of Lower Burrell-Burrell, Pa. Hammond still considers being chosen for and winning his match at that meet, which pits the top high school wrestler in each weight class from Pennsylvania against the best from the rest of the country, the most satisfying achievement thus far of his wrestling career. All of Hammond’s high school exploits made him a highly sought after recruit of several colleges, including Arizona State, Boise State, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. But instead, Hammond chose to stay close to home, follow in his father’s footsteps and wrestle for CSUB.
BRYCE HAMMOND
Nationally-ranked wrestler, who chose hometown CSUB above others, readies for NCAA championship
The move has proved to be a good one for both Hammond and the Roadrunners. Hammond, whose younger brother Coleman also wrestles at CSUB, has been nationally ranked since the start of the season. Hammond, who credits his success on the mat to his highly skillful techBryce Hammond nique, believes he’ll be in top form when the NCAA Championships take place in Oklahoma City on March 20-22. “I’ve always been someone that wrestles best at the end of the season.”
Facts: Bryce Hammond Born May 4, 1992. Parents are Ray and Lisa Hammond; has a younger brother, Coleman. Started wrestling competitively at age 10. Finished high school career on 74-match winning streak after finishing fourth at state meet as a sophomore. Won 160-pound title at CIF State Wrestling Championships as junior and senior at Bakersfield High School. Led the Drillers to state team championship his junior year. Selected The Bakersfield Californian All-Area Wrestler of the Year in 2010 and 2011. One of seven former BHS wrestlers currently on the CSUB roster. Won tournament title at the San Francisco State Open his freshman year at CSUB, was fourth at the Reno Tournament of Champions, fifth at the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational, and seventh at the Midlands Championships. Led CSUB in wins (34) and was third in pins (5) during the 2012-13 season. Finished last season ranked in five different polls. Majoring in agriculture business and hopes to get into ranching and/or farming after graduation. Hobbies include fishing, hunting, camping and anything else outdoors related.
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
Bryce Hammond dominates his opponent during a match against Stanford University last season.
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TA L K O F T H E TO W N
Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
I
t happens often: those who grow up in Bakersfield leave town but eventually return. Terry Roberts has done so twice, and says he’s glad to call Bakersfield home. Roberts, who was born and raised here and graduated from South High, was recently named commander of the Bakersfield area office of the Californian Highway Patrol, making him only the second person to serve in the Bakersfield office in every rank. He calls his selection “winning the lottery.” He started his career in central Los Angeles but has spent 23 of his 25 years in service at three of the five Kern County CHP offices. He served for six months in 2013 at the FBI’s terrorist screening center in Washington D.C. “Kern County is known as one of the most law-enforcement friendly communities,” Roberts said. “We enjoy great support from the community, the community leaders and the elected officials.” Roberts answered a few questions for Bakersfield Life about his time serving in Bakersfield, and his new gig.
HOMETOWN HIGHWAY PATROLMAN Newest CHP commander Terry Roberts has deep roots on streets of Bakersfield
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me. A workout is a great way to start the day.
What are some of your roles as commander? Facilitator, manager, mentor, counselor, investigator, community leader ... the list goes on and on. As a commander, you are responsible for the overall command operations and its personnel. A commander has to take ownership of the command in order to be successful. As either as a lieutenant commander or captain commander, you wear many hats.
What has been the funniest call you’ve had to handle as a patrol officer? I responded to a solo rollover collision with six adult occupants, three male and three female. Fortunately, none of the occupants were seriously injured. The funny part is all six were completely naked, and there was not a single piece of clothing in the vehicle for them to put on.
First thing you do in the morning to start your day? Workout — it’s a must. Although I cannot always make it to the gym, I shoot for four to six times per week. I’ve tried working out in the evening, and it is not nearly as valuable to
What’s been the most interesting excuse you’ve heard for speeding? The driver is late for court to answer to a previous speeding citation.
Bakersfield Life Magazine
January 2014
California Highway Patrol commander Terry Roberts.
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
CHP is a statewide agency, of course. But what’s the reputation of the Bakersfield area within CHP circles? (We’re) known by the CHP to be diversified with respects to the population, the industries, terrains and the CHP’s jurisdiction of responsibility. On a very positive side, the CHP is very successful in recruiting excellent candidates to become cadets and eventually officers with the department. On a negative side, we experience a very high number of fatal collisions within the valley. A high percentage of the fatal collisions occur along the two-lane roadways within the rural and agricultural areas of the valley.
Best piece of advice you have gotten from a senior officer? Ensure a portion of my sphere of influence is from outside the law enforcement community.
Best job assignment and why? Bakersfield Area Captain. I am one of the very few that have been assigned in every uniformed rank in the Bakersfield area. Being the commander of the Bakersfield area became my goal once I promoted to lieutenant in 2008. Additionally, I am a “people person.” As an officer, you get to meet a lot of interesting people during a routine shift, from the motorists passing through, to the allied agency officers, the fire fighters, nurses, teachers, doctors, media personnel, lawyers, judges ... the list goes on and on. As a sergeant, that
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California Highway Patrol color guard members stand at attention during the Officer Down Support Ride.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Biggest pet peeve — either at work or on the job? The litter all over our streets and highways. This year I had the opportunity to spend six months on the East Coast on a temporary assignment. The first thing I noticed was there was not trash all over the sides of the roads like there is in California. I just wish Californians had enough pride in our state to not litter. California resembles a Third World country when it comes to litter on our highways.
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Continued from page 65 decreases a bit because of the administrative assignments and a non-commander lieutenant gets stuck behind a desk about 95 percent of the time. As an area commander, I get to get away from the office and attend different functions throughout the day and week which affords me the opportunity to meet people on a regular basis. Something your fellow patrol partners don’t know about you? I’ll invoke my Fifth Amendment rights to that question. What led you to the highway patrol in general? I became interested in law enforcement when I was in the third grade because my neighbor across the street was a motor cop for Bakersfield Police Department. To follow that up, my first ride in a patrol car was when I was about 10 years old and another neighbor, who happened to be a CHP officer, gave me a ride to my house one day when I was walking my bicycle home with a flat tire. As an adult, when I began pursuing a career in law enforcement, the CHP was most appealing because I could live just about anywhere in California and was not restricted to living in Bakersfield. Low and behold, I live in Bakersfield anyway, because I like it.
You’ve served at various Bakersfield CHP offices. Can you tell us a little bit about them, and what makes each of them special? The Bakersfield area is by far the busiest of the three offices I’ve worked (Bakersfield, Fort Tejon and Buttonwillow) in Kern County. The Bakersfield area serves the metropolitan areas of Bakersfield and is responsible for approximately 3,000 square miles of jurisdiction, including Kernville and part of the mountainous area leading to Mojave. The Bakersfield area has a captain as a commander responsible for two lieutenants, 11 sergeants, approximately 100 officers, 27 dispatch personnel, nine clerical staff, three auto technicians and a maintenance worker. It is not out of the ordinary for a Bakersfield Area officer to investigate one, two, three and sometimes more traffic collisions in a single day in addition to providing motorist services and possibly arresting a DUI and issuing several citations. The Fort Tejon area serves the mountainous communities of Lebec, Frazier Park, Pine Mountain Club and Gorman. The command has a lieutenant as a commander responsible for three sergeants, approximately 30 officers, two clerical personnel, an auto technician and a custodian. The majority of motorist services and enforcement activity is generated on Interstate 5 through the Grapevine. The Fort Tejon area is
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responsible for closing Interstate 5 over the Grapevine during inclement weather. The Buttonwillow area serves the communities of Buttonwillow, Lost Hills, Maricopa and Taft. Like the Fort Tejon area, the command has a lieutenant as a commander responsible for three sergeants, approximately 30 officers, two clerical personnel, an auto technician and a custodian. The Buttonwillow is responsible for 68 miles of Interstate 5 and portions of SR-166 all the way to the Santa Barbara County line and SR-46 to the San Luis Obispo County line. The increased vehicle traffic leading to and from the oilfields in western Kern County has become a challenge in recent years. However, the most significant challenges are the random dust storms throughout the year, and the fog in the winter months. With all the pressures of your job, how do you relax? The gym is my best relief for stress. But, when I am on days off, my beautiful wife and I love to visit Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Pismo and Santa Monica. These are close places we can travel to in order to escape some of the inclement weather we sometimes experience in Bakersfield.
To read more about Roberts — including what led him into law enforcement, how he relieves job stress, and more — go to bakersfieldlife.com
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CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
FOR A CAUSE
Chef William Bloxsom-Carter, left, executive chef at the Playboy Mansion, demonstrates to a BC student how to trim meat during the Sterling Silver Dinner.
FINE DINING FOR PHILANTHROPY Bakersfield College to host its sixth ‘Sterling Silver’ dinner featuring Playboy Mansion executive chef, benefitting Culinary Arts students
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et a “peek into the future of fine dining” during Bakersfield College’s sixth Sterling Silver Dinner, where a renowned executive chef of the Playboy Mansion in West Los Angeles prepares a worldclass meal with the help of the college’s very own Culinary Arts students. The annual formal evening brings Chef William Bloxsom-Carter from Beverly Hills to Bakersfield, local foodies and the Bakersfield College community together to benefit the culinary artists of the future. “Experience of a world-class dinner ... to support local students who will be the future chefs of tomorrow,” said Mike Stepanovich, executive director of Bakersfield College Foundation. “Sterling Silver is an extraordinary event that not only reflects well on Bakersfield College but also on Bakersfield as well.”
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Tracey Crawford, from BC’s Culinary Arts program, is careful with her ingredients.
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
By Eduardo Gamez
CENTENNIAL CUISINE This year’s centennial-focused dinner calls for elegant evening attire and impeccable food to experience. A ticket includes a six-course dinner paired with wine for each course. The dinner’s serves as significant fundraiser for BC’s Culinary Arts program and scholarships for students. So it’s fitting that students make the dinner possible, said Amber
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The Sterling Silver event has raised vital dollars for BC’s Culinary Arts program and Renegade Fund.
Chiang, BC director of marketing and public Bakersfield College relations. Sterling Silver Dinner Chef Bloxsom-Carter What: Six-course fine dining experidevises the menu and ence with wine pairings, benefitting oversees the work, but Bakersfield College Culinary Arts scholarships. the student “Chef’s Brigade” prepare the dinWhen: 6 p.m. Feb. 1 ner. Also involved are BC Where: Bakersfield College Collins Campus Center, 1801 Panorama Chef Pat Croyle, Chef Drive Suzanne Durst, Chef Ray Cost: $195 Ingram and Chef Alex More information: 395-4256, Gomez. amchiang@bakersfieldcollege.edu “If you want to experience amazing wine and a delicious menu, then this is the event to indulge in,” Chiang said. “We want this event to continue to grow the Renegade Fund as a primary source of revenue for college students who want to be able to focus on their studies.” Each year has sold out and in all has provided well over $50,000 in scholarships.
4015 Scenic River Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-588-2400 • www.VillasAtScenicRiver.com Directions: From Highway 99 take the Olive exit going West. Turn left onto Coffee Rd, and left on Meany Avenue. Turn left onto Scenic River Lane.
COURTESY OF THE CHEF Celebrity Chef Bloxsom-Carter, who has been a part of Sterling Silver dinner for five years now, said he is always excited to work with the talented students at Bakersfield College. He became involved to help fledgling culinary students hone their craft, he said. “I want students to achieve confidence and rewarding employment in the culinary field,” said Bloxsom-Carter, who has provided food and exclusive wine offerings for Hugh Hefner’s Playboy Mansion parties for more than 25 years to 100,000 guests annually. “Confidence comes with success, and it’s a win-win for the school’s Culinary Arts program.” Each year, he aims to present a Sterling Silver dinner menu that is better than the previous year. “Each year is meant to be topped,” he said. “Everyone is bringing a lot to the table with their skill sets, and should be applauded for their hard work to make this event happen.”
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GYM TIME! Renew your commitment to healthy living this New Year with a gym that’s perfect for you
Kyle Manning works out using a "battle rope" at In-Shape Health Club on White Lane. 70
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By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann
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PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
t’s that time of year again, the time of year when we push our past regrets to the side, turn over a new leaf and renew our commitment to a positive healthy lifestyle. Or, for some of us, it’s simply time to shed the weight we gained from eating too many cookies and drinking too many cocktails during the holidays. We’ve compiled a list of gyms in Bakersfield, each one differing from the other in feel and scope, yet, all sharing a deep commitment to helping their clientele achieve fitness goals beyond mere New Year’s resolutions. Bakersfield is host to tons of gyms and fitness studios, and this is just a small cross section of what is out there. Going into a gym for the first time can be intimidating. Staff and trainers are there to help you improve your life, but the only way they can do that is by you taking the first step. Do your research, and most of all, enjoy your fitness journey.
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PHOTO BY ROD THORNBURG
Life Time Fitness, owned and operated by Pat Brown, specializes in one-on-one personal training with nutrition coaching.
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Total Woman Fitness is a locally-owned and operated woman’s only health club helping women get fit at its Truxtun Avenue location for nearly 26 years. It offers a wide variety and large number of classes that include Les Mills, spin, Gravity and pool training. If you prefer to work out solo, the gym hosts free weights and machines. Personal trainers are available for one-on-one training, and small group personal training is available as well. Memberships are offered in monthly packages: three months, six months and 12 months. There is an enrollment fee, and the contract is specific to the number of months you choose for your package. Its staff will help craft a package tailored to your specific needs. For detailed membership information, call and set up a date to tour the gym. Total Woman Fitness, owned by Leigh Pozas, has a devoted following due an incredibly nurturing woman-centric atmosphere, friendly to all ages and abilities. Child care is available throughout the week with limited hours on Saturday. Club hours 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. — Total Woman Fitness: 5329 Truxtun Ave., 325-0208, twfitness.com 72
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Total Woman Fitness is a locally-owned and operated women’s only health club.
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
For the ladies
Fitness for life Life Time Fitness is owned and operated by Pat Brown, who has been working on transforming bodies and lifestyles in Bakersfield for the past 24 years. It specializes in one-onone personal training with nutrition coaching, with also small
Kick it up a notch with boot camp
BakersFit takes boot camp training to another level for its members.
Newly opened in September, BakersFit takes boot camp training to another level. Manager Mike Rios has in-depth experience with the boot camp style of training and encourages members to challenge themselves, find new strength and discover a renewed lifestyle. Classes are held from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through
N e w s , We a t h e r a n d Tr a f f i c U p d a t e s Weekdays 7 to 10 am
C o r ey C o s t e l l o e reviews CSUB’s Athletic Programs Tuesday 10 to 11 am
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
group classes available. This gym is small, specialized, but intense. Devotees rave about the positive energy circulating throughout the gym’s atmosphere that brings out the best in people. Free weights and cardio machines are available to members. Memberships are $130 per month with no contract, which includes intensive fitness and nutritional coaching on a personal and individualized level. Similarly, Fit For Life is focused on delivering life lasting results. Owner Tim Gojich, certified trainer since 1993, started the gym in 2002, and his boot camp started in 2004, is a local original. Since then, Fit For Life has helped thousands of local residents achieve health and fitness resolutions. — Life Time Fitness: 2415 Eye St. 334-1986, patbrownsystem.com — Fit For Life: 701 19th St. 325-0900, fitforlifegym.com
Friday. If you’re a beginner, you will be advised to attend the Monday, Wednesday and Friday classes. Once you’re acclimated, you can join the more advanced members, who burn calories on Tuesday and Thursdays. The gym is open to members weekly from 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from 6 a.m. to 2
Lisa Krch explores We l l n e s s , H e a l t h , F itness and Living Wednesdays 10 to 11 am
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Ke v i n B a r t l a n d R ya n H o l t discuss the Condor s Wednesdays Noon to 1 pm
With Don Clar k and Tina Miller Thursdays 10 to 11 am
Zach Ewing previews High School Spor ts Thursdays 2 to 3 pm
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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Tim Gojich, left, owner of Fit For Life, works with Leonard Bidart on back strengthening exercises.
Continued from page 73 p.m. on Saturday. Individual personal training is available. Uniquely, youth boot camps are offered for kids 8 and up. Three trainers inside a fun, constructive and positive environment lead each youth class. Membership fees are month-to-month with no contract. BakersFit does occasional run specials but VIP memberships are $125 a month. Included in that cost is towel service, childcare and access to nutrition coaching. — BakersFit: 2601 Union Ave. 326-1266, bakersfit.com.
‘Old school’ strength and health Strength and Health Gym on 21st Street can best be described as “old school” and has been a Bakersfield favorite since 1982. Owner Mark Pacheco describes his gym as “no frills,” “gritty” and “retro.” You won’t find CrossFit or yoga at Strength and Health, but what you will find is a sincere and honest passion to transform bodies and lives. The focus here is keen on bodybuilding, strength and resistance training. Classes include mixed martial arts or “MMA,” and this kickboxing inspired instruction certainly delivers results. Personal training and boot camp classes are offered to members, as is use of the vast amount of free weights and cardio machines. Membership fees run $50 a month with no contract or enrollment. Hours are 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. — Strength and Health Gym: 318 21st St. 327-2582, Facebook: Strength & Health Gym Bakersfield
Super-sized, super options In-Shape on White Lane is Bakersfield’s super-sized version of the health club experience. Inside the 58,000 square feet of gym there is a veritable menu of classes: yoga, the ever-popular Zumba, Pilates, spin and an indoor pool. A newly devoted space is carved out for the fitness craze that is “CrossFit.” Amenities seem to abound at In-Shape. This particular club location is open 24/7. Childcare is available in the “Kids Club” from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with a $10 charge. Membership is a bargain at $34.99 per month, though you must sign a 36-month contract with a $149 enrollment fee. However, short-term contracts are available and one free personal training session is given to new members. The enrollment staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, capable of answering any questions or concerns you may have. — In-Shape Health Club: 4801 White Lane, 398-4970, inshapeclubs.com
Possible with Pilates The challenging classes instructed at Poise Pilates+Barre make this studio the hottest fitness ticket in town. It’s easy to understand when seeing the results made possible by adding Pilates to a workout regime. Poise is a small fitness studio solely offering Pilates (instructed on the studio reformers), poise barre (an exercise class with roots in ballet) and poise 50/50 (half hour on Pilates reformers and half hour using the barre). These classes are very small and fill up quickly. Members buy packages of classes with a minimum of eight classes per package. — Poise Pilates + Barre: 1800 21st Street, Suite A, 864-7977, poisepilatesbarre.com
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Organ ambassador
Local mother will walk in Tournament of Roses Parade following kidney donation for her son
PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY VOCHOSKA
Kathy Vochoska is an advocate for kidney donations following her own transplant to her son, Chris.
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Kathy Vochoska will walk in the upcoming Tournament of Roses Parade with the “Donate Life” float by OneLegacy.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DONATE LIFE
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or most people, mention of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade most likely conjures up images of crowds and the fanfare, color and artistry of marching bands and floats — not weighty matters of life and death. Not so for Kathy Vochoska. The 52-year-old homemaker from Bakersfield is one of 12 living organ donors getting ready to walk in the upcoming parade with the “Donate Life” float from the organ and tissue donation nonprofit OneLegacy. Bryan Stewart, chairman of the Donate Life Rose Parade committee for OneLegacy, said Vochoska was chosen to represent the organization because she has made an important contribution to promoting organ, eye and tissue donation as a volunteer in its seven-county service area, which includes Kern County. “Kathy and her fellow walkers represent the hope that people will donate a kidney to a family member or a friend or even a stranger,” Stewart said. While 30 organ and tissue transplant recipients will be riding on the float, the 12 living donors — all kidney donors — will be “walking on foot to demonstrate their vitality post-donation,” according to a Donate Life.
JOURNEY TO THE PARADE Vochoska donated a kidney to her son, Chris, in early 2011. In 2010, Chris was afflicted by a disease called IgA nephropathy, also known as Burger’s syndrome. It is a non-hereditary autoimmune disease that can cause renal failure, Vochoska said. “He went into kidney failure within 24 hours after waking up with swollen ankles,” she said. “My feet were mushrooming over my socks — it was like something you see in a movie,” the then 22-year-old remembered of the experience. And he cannot forget the debilitating effects of the treatment he needed to receive: chemotherapy, heavy steroids and especially
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‘Dreams come true’: Local woman helps decorate Rose Parade float
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Chris Vochoska recovers from a kidney transplant — donated by his mother — while surrounded by loved ones.
Continued from page 77 dialysis. “Your body is drained after going through dialysis,” said Chris, now 25. Both Vochoska and her husband, also named Chris, readily volunteered as organ donors. “I’m very blessed. Both of them were matches,” their son said. In the end, however, it was mom’s kidney that prevailed for reasons that had as much to do with love as with practicality. His mother really wanted to donate her kidney, the younger Chris said, and since his father is the family’s sole breadwinner, they didn’t want to risk him suffering any complications from the surgery that might keep him out of work for an extended period of time. Following all the necessary tests to ensure compatibility, the organ removal and transplant surgery went as planned at UCLA Medical Center. Now, Vochoska says she can’t tell the difference between when she had both kidneys and having only one. She has run marathons and hiked the Grand Canyon since the operation. For his part, Chris, who also hikes, said his prognosis “is good.” “Statistics-wise, the kidney should last about 10 years,” he said. Living kidney donation is both common and relatively uncomplicated, said Donate Life’s Stewart. He said he hopes that having Kathy Vochoska walk alongside OneLegacy’s float, whose theme is “Light Up the World,” will raise awareness about the need for kidney donations.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY VOCHOSKA
W
hen Bakersfield resident Renee Goodwin was growing up in frigid Michigan, she would watch the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade on television every year together with her mother. And in the dead of winter in the Great Lakes region, she would marvel at how beautiful the floats looked in California’s sunny, warm weather, she said. Goodwin cherished those memories even after moving to Bakersfield in 2004, not realizing right away how close her new city put her to the well-known — and televised — yearly attraction. As a businesswoman with construction management company Lundgren Management, Goodwin joined a local rotary club within a year of coming here, she said. Little did she know, however, that the international service organization would provide her with the opportunity to not just see a Rose Parade float close up, but to help put one together. “I never knew it was even an option to help decorate a float,” she said. That is, until a call went out from local rotary leaders for volunteers to help decorate the Rotary International Rose Parade Float for the 2011 Rose Parade. “I couldn’t pass it up.” She signed up herself and her then-28year-old son, Sean, and they helped decorate the float about a week before the parade. It was shaped like a caterpillar. “We were upon a scaffold,” Goodwin said. “We had split red lentils and, with a pair of tweezers, we were adding each lentil to the eyes of the caterpillar.” The duo participated in a four-hour shift. “There are 20 to 25 people per shift,” she said. “You have people who are getting flower petals ready, people overseeing, people doing different things. It’s really an interesting experience.” As her participation was early in the decorating process — before the application of the flower petals because “dry lentils don’t wilt or go bad” — Goodwin didn’t get to see the finished product until a week later on television. But the wait was well worth it. “To see it go down the parade route and see all the things that had been added is pretty amazing,” she said. Check local television and online live stream listings for the 125th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade, which begins at 8 a.m. local time on New Year’s Day. The theme for 2014 is “Dreams Come True.” More information: tournamentofroses.com.
"To meet the need of kidney transplants, we must have living donors,” Stewart said. “Only about one-half of one percent of deaths occur under circumstances where organ donation is possible, and there is currently a need for more than 90,000 kidney transplants across the country.”
A FAMILY’S ‘AMBASSADOR’ Vochoska has become a full-time volunteer ambassador for OneLegacy. “This kind of is my job,” she said. “I’m very passionate about it. I’ve met people whose loved ones have died waiting for a transplant and it breaks my heart.” It’s why she applied to walk in the Rose Parade. And grateful son Chris is going to be standing along the parade route cheering her on. “I’m proud of her. I know what she does is unbelievable for the community,” he said. “She’s amazing.” With Chris will be his father; his sister, Kathleen; his maternal grandmother, Betty Leach; and his fiancee, Kayleigh Polkinghorne. Chris, who is currently working on a master’s degree in electrical engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, will be marrying Kayleigh in April. In all, Chris said he is thankful for his mother’s choice to become a living donor — his living donor “I can’t even imagine what my life would have been like if I was still on dialysis.” To learn more about OneLegacy, visit the agency’s website at onelegacy.org.
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CAPTURING CELEBRATIONS Local professional photographers share their favorite celebration shots from 2013
Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
W
hen there’s cause for celebration, there’s cause to capture it with photos as a way to preserve the moment forever. We asked local professionals, who are experts in capturing that special celebration moment, to share their favorite celebration shot from 2013. Here they are:
I took this photo of my daughter and her friends from West High as they celebrated at Central Park at Mill Creek, prior to their winter formal. I like using this park for photo shoots because of all the interesting backgrounds it offers. Pictured are Alyssa Starr, Clarissa Alderete, Alissa Soto, Anelisa Nichols, Emmelie Arevalo and Lauren Morales. — Greg Nichols, Greg Nichols Photography: 836-9719, gregnichols@att.net.
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This photo is one of our favorite images from Cameron and Haley Reeder’s wedding on May 4, 2013 at Bakersfield Country Club. One of our favorite parts of the day was after the ceremony when we were photographing the newlyweds alone. They seemed to be in their own world, enjoying a few minutes whispering together as the sun was setting. The couple selected this photo to hang in their home. We are honored that our photographs will be used to share their wedding day story with their future children someday. — Jennifer Culpepper, Artisan Photography: 747-0937, theartisanphotographers.com, Facebook: Artisan Photography.
Centennial High School graduate Jessica Laurente expressed that she loved adventure and was up for anything for her senior photos. On this specific day, we spent hours looking for the perfect spot for Jessica’s photo location, then we found this gorgeous scenery and four-wheeled up a hill to get to it! — Makenzie Photography: makenziephotography@gmail.com, makenziephoto.com
Melissa Fletcher and Moses Dabulamanzi were married Oct. 19, 2013 in an intimate ceremony at Wind Wolves Preserve. Melissa is a ranger there, so the location was extra special. This photo was taken after their ceremony, when Melissa and Moses took some time to walk together along the Willows Trail. Not many couples take time to themselves on their wedding day, let alone plan a hike together! As the sun was shining through the trees, Moses gave Melissa a kiss on the cheek, and her smile says it all. — Jennifer Williams Photography: 619-4244; jen@jenwillphoto.com; jenwillphoto.com
Planning a wedding is hard enough, but imagine doing it without your fiance here. That is the case with our couple Dani and Kip Small, who was serving as a U.S. Marine back east during all of the planning. Dani enlisted help from local wedding coordinator Shannon Hough. During the reception at the Horse Haven Bridal Ranch, right after they cut the cake, we swept the couple away for some private romantic time at sunset, and captured this moment. — C & B Photography: bakersfieldweddingphotos.com, christopherandbryan@cnbphotos .com, 301-9612, 316 H St.
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I took this photo during my client’s wedding (Hillary and Greg Welsh) on Oct. 19, 2013 at JEH Ranch, one of the most beautiful outdoor wedding venues in Bakersfield, which reflects Hillary & Greg’s spirit — full of beautiful light, colorful and fun! — Juli Feller, Juli Feller Photography: julifellerphoto.com, 703-7636
What a beautiful day this was and one of my favorite couples! Andrew and Kelley Sybesma were married on Nov. 9, 2013 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in a beautiful, elegant wedding. They celebrated with family and friends afterward at a fun reception at Bakersfield Country Club. — Jessica Frey Photography: Jessica@JessicaFreyPhotography.com; JessicaFreyPhotography.com; jessicafreyphotographyblog.com.
The Bakersfield Condors’ annual Teddy Bear Toss game is one of the biggest local celebrations. Every year, thousands flock to Rabobank Arena with stuffed animals eagerly awaiting the Condors’ first goal so they can throw them onto the ice. This year, they didn’t have to wait long, as the first goal came just 33 seconds into the game — the fastest goal in Teddy Bear Toss history. All the stuffed animals are donated to the United Way of Kern County. — Mark Nessia Photography: marknessia.com, 331-2835, marknessia@gmail.com.
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Hannah and Isaac Richert met their freshman year at Centennial High School. Their lockers were right next to each other, so naturally they had to get married. Their dating spanned six years, three different schools, two cities, and far too many kisses to count. Their wedding had all the Bakersfield trademarks: family, friends, dancing, and a tri-tip dinner on a mild 112degree night. Despite the heat, the wedding was an amazing party. It was a perfect celebration of Hannah and Isaac’s love for each other, and for God. — Patrick Ang Photography: 408.781.2006, patrick@patrickangphotography.com, patrickangphotography.com, patrickangblog.com.
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When all of the planning is done and the day is here, a girl should take a moment to twirl in her dress and just smile! Ricki Seymour planned a magnificent private ranch wedding in Bakersfield. She celebrated together with family and friends while her and Jarod said their “I do’s!” One of our favorite parts of the day to capture is our stunning brides, feeling amazing, in their dresses. Nothing excites us more than pure, raw emotion that can’t be contained. — Daniel Boone Photography: 333-0238; boone@danielboonephotography.com, danielboonephotography.com
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Former Miss Bakersfield Michaela Beard married Lukious Sims on July 27, 2013. It was a beautiful ceremony that took place at St. Francis of Assisi Parish followed by a fun-loving reception at Hodel’s Country Dining. The couple is expecting their first child April 20. — Christina Looker, Made u Look Photography: Madeulookphotography.com, madeulookgirls@gmail.com.
January 2014
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5201 Riverlakes Drive • Bakersfield, CA 93312 • (661) 587-LINKS www.riverlakesgc.com
Lea and Tanya Brown listen to a friend sing during their blessing of a marriage ceremony held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church earlier this year. I chose this photo because it is not over-the-top jubilation, rather it is a quiet happiness. It is an unguarded moment as the couple and everyone else in the church watches someone else, and so I believe it speaks more honestly about who they are. — Michael Fagans: michaelfagans.com. Rising Tide Productions: Facebook.com/RisingTideProductions.tv.
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THE DJ AND THE DANCE FLOOR Local DJ dishes the party music hits and misses from behind the turntables Story and photos by Brian N. Willhite
T
he next time you’re celebrating on the dance floor and can’t remember where the last hour went, you can thank your DJ. Local DJ Mike Broida with Freestyle Event Services walks us through the hits that keep the party flowing and what it’s like to be behind the microphone. After all, he said, DJs aren’t just pressing play on a CD player — everything they do is on-the-fly. "We’re the master of ceremony — the MC — so it’s up to us to direct the crowd, keep everyone informed of what’s going on, and keep everyone entertained, not just through music, but also on the microphone,” Broida said.
How to keep the party moving While every crowd is different, Broida said some songs are universal in getting crowds excited. They include: • “Shout” by Otis Day and The Knights • “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan • Anything by Michael Jackson. For more up-to-date hits, Broida plays: • “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz’ • “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke • “Starships” by Nicki Minaj • “Give Me Everything” by Pitbull
Local DJ Mike Broida with Freestyle Event Services keeps parties flowing with turntables and the microphone.
Wedding gems Crafting the perfect wedding playlist depends a lot on pre-planning between the DJ and the married couple to be. But some songs seem to always make their way to wedding dance floors. They include “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey and “You Shook Me All Night Long” AC/DC
tral Valley weddings. Many couples in their 20s and 30s are choosing modern country music, like from Luke Bryan, Eric Church and Lady Antebellum. But, many still like the classics, like “At Last” by Etta James.
First songs
Do-not-play list
A married couple’s first song choice says a lot about their personalities, and Broida said he has noticed a growing trend in Cen-
Choosing what’s hot and what’s not is tricky because of every crowd is unique, Broida said, but there are some songs that gener-
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ally do not make it to the dance floor. “A lot of people are tired of ‘YMCA,’ tired of ‘Gangnam Style.’ For other crowds though, those could be must-plays,” he said. As part of the planning process,clients are encouraged to make do-not-play lists — the “Chicken Dance” song typically finds its way on the list. “A lot of people want to move away from the cheesy stuff, it seems like,” Broida said. “We have them on deck though, and as long as people will dance to them, we’ll play them.”
WEDDINGS: WHO PAYS FOR WHAT? Taking a more traditional route? Follow this guide to determine who should foot the wedding bills List contributed by Colleen Bauer
M
ore and more these days, couples are paying for the bulk of their own weddings. But it’s nice when parents can, and are willing to, pitch in. For the more traditional route, follow this list of who should pay to make your special day come together.
Bride
Groom
Groom’s wedding ring Groom’s wedding gift Bridal attendants gifts Bridal attire and accessories Wedding consultant fees Bridal luncheon Medical visit for the bride Accommodations for out-of-town guests
Bride’s engagement and wedding ring Groom’s gift to bride Groomsmen/ushers gifts Bride’s bouquet Mother’s corsages Medical visit for the groom Marriage license Clergyman/officiate fee Groom’s attire
Boutonnieres for groomsmen/ushers Limousine service Honeymoon arrangements
Bride’s family Wedding gown/headpiece/accessories Wedding trousseau Wedding invitations and announcements Wedding programs Napkins/matches/printed Items Wedding favors Rice bags Canopy/carpet Kneeling bench/candelabras Rented items for wedding Rented items for reception Church fee Church janitor Wedding reception Catered reception, professional services Floral arrangements for ceremony, reception, bridal bouquet, bridesmaid’s bouquet, corsages and boutonnieres for immediate family
Wedding photography Video photography Musical entertainment: orchestra, band, DJ Wedding breakfast Bridal lunch Father of the bride formal wear
Groom’s family Groom’s cake Rehearsal dinner Boutonnieres and corsages for immediate family members Father of the groom formal wear
Attendants Rental or purchase of their wedding attire Travel expenses to and from the wedding city Wedding gift for the couple Bridal/co-ed shower/favors if desired Bachelorette party — Colleen Bauer is the owner of Fairy Godmother, a wedding and event planning company.
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HOW TO PLAN A SUPER BOWL BASH Have a game plan that will score big points with your guests come Sunday
Set up the areas of your house to suit the needs of guests by creating sections for each team.
By Colleen Bauer
Photos by Austin Thomas
A
re you thinking this might be the year that you host a Super Bowl party? To score a touchdown with your guests, your plays must be in order and your line of defense must be strong. Here is a game-plan for kicking off the biggest party of the
year.
Setting the ground work First, start with a timeframe. One month in advance is a good time to compile your guest list, plan your menu and buy extra chairs and serving dishes. Decide whether you need an extra set of hands — such as party planners, who are experienced with these kinds of things — to help you out with the party.
Who’s attending? When compiling the guest list, take into account what kind of party you would like to have. Hard core football fans? Friends and family who want to casually enjoy the game and good food? Coworkers, business partners or clients? Now that you have your guests, let’s get them comfy.
Seating arrangements Set up the areas of your house to suit the needs of the guests. No matter what group you invite, you will always 88
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Figure out if you need extra hands for the bowl party, like these ladies from Fairy Godmother. have those who are serious about the game. They will need a room to watch every play where they’re not distracted by chatter. Set up a comfortable area for those guests who are more interested in catching up with one another than watching the game. If there are going to be children at the event, set aside a room or play area for them, with a babysitter to entertain, so parents don’t have to worry about their kids.
Decorations
Decorations provide for a fun feel.
After you have your furniture formation, the decorations are next. Choose your team colors and decorate accordingly. Don’t just decorate for the team you plan on rooting for. Provide the opposing team fans some decorations of their own to add some tension. This is all in good fun!
Entertainment Activities are also an important part of your game plan, even though there is a game going on, activities related to that add to the atmosphere. You might raffle Beer and finger off prize baskets or set up a pool foods are a must. with quarterly winners. For kids, rent a football-themed movie like “Rudy” or “Little Giants” (appropriate for ages 6 to 9).
Adequate supplies One of the most important details for you to consider when planning and preparing is the “supply wagon” — cups, plates, cutlery, napkins, paper towels, serving bowls and platters, and last but not least, trash cans. Make sure that you get enough of everything. Too much is better than too little. And make sure these items are easy to find and in multiple locations.
Party foods Super bowl parties are not a good place to be on a diet. It is the second-largest day for food consumption in the United States — second to Thanksgiving! Naturally, you’ll have carbs, sugar and plenty of sodium. Setting up multiple tables for noshing is nice, so that there’s something within reach of every guest. Definitely use your Crock-Pot (and borrow two more) to serve nachos, meatball and chili stations. Casseroles are easy to prepare in advance and are easy to serve. Display your dessert table center stage toward the end of the game. It’s a nice way to wrap things up and it sends the signal that the party is coming to an end.
Beer, wine and cocktails Make sure to consider your audience. Will this crowd want to drink their frosty beer straight from a bottle? Or, would it be better to offer some basic cocktails, along with wine and beer? Consider hiring a college student to act as your bartender. Also, make sure you have some delicious non-alcoholic choices. You want to ensure the designated drivers are treated well.
Don’t forget the host As the host, your winning moment is when you get to look around and see everyone having a great time, including you! You’ve thought of every possible play and you’re so organized that you get to enjoy your own party. Touchdown! — Colleen Bauer is the owner of Fairy Godmother, a wedding and event planning company
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WEDDING TIME! PHOTO BY ARTISAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Take this step-by-step journey leading up to your big day
T
his timeline provides you with a checklist that will help you plan a wedding to remember. This is meant as a general guideline, and there will surely be additional steps unique to your wedding.
Take care of final gown alterations four months prior to the wedding.
12 to 16 months before the wedding __ Choose a wedding date. The best way to do this is to visit ceremony and reception facilities. __ Start a wedding file. __ Discuss and choose the style and formality of your wedding. __ Put an announcement of your recent engagement in the local paper. __ Decide on a wedding budget. __ Hire a wedding consultant. __ Select a ceremony location and reception site. __ Start shopping for a wedding gown, veil and tiara.
8 to 10 months before the wedding __ Place your order for save the dates and “thank you” cards. __ Select your bridal party. __ Interview and hire the following: • Wedding officiate • Reception caterer • Photographer and cinema photographer • Band or DJ: Interview several. __ Decide on bridesmaids dresses. __ Start compiling names and addresses for the guest list. __ Sign up for a gift registry. __ Prepare for engagement party. __ Mail your save the date cards.
5 to 7 months before the wedding __ Finalize the guest list. __ Arrange accommodations. __ Select your wedding cake. __ Begin preparations for your honeymoon.
4 months before the wedding __ Book your florist. __ Shop for your wedding bands. __ Book a room for the wedding night. __ Write “thank you notes” as gifts arrive. __ Select tuxedos. __ Discuss finalized menu options and costs with your caterer.
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__ Arrange transportation/limousine service for the wedding party to the ceremony and reception. __ Order wedding favors and ribbons (imprinted). __ Shop for bridal party gifts. __ Send out your invitations. __ Choose your wedding music for your ceremony and reception. __ Select a location for your rehearsal dinner and make deposits. __ Schedule your alterations and final fitting for the gown. __ Schedule fittings for the bridesmaids and flower girl. __ Arrange your bridesmaid luncheon and other pre-wedding parties. __ Order address labels with your new name and address. __ Check local newspaper for wedding announcement deadline. __ Confirm your order with the florist. __ Discuss service with your officiate. __ Choose readings for ceremony.
1 month before the wedding __ Design your wedding programs. __ Apply for your marriage license. __ Choose all of your wedding accessories. __ Have a final gown fitting with your shoes, jewelry and lingerie. __ Visit your hair stylist, work on a style with your veil. __ Visit your make-up artist the same day. __ Send out rehearsal dinner invitations.
2 weeks before the wedding __ Call any guests who haven’t sent back their response cards __ Give the caterer a finalized head count. __ Obtain your marriage license and request certificated copies. __ Send change of address information to post office. __ Give your DJ or band a list of songs that you want played. __ Confirm rehearsal plans with your coordi-
January 2014
nator. __ Obtain any legal information regarding changing your name. __ Complete floor and seating plan for reception. __ Confirm all rental and floral delivery dates and times. __ Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception.
1 week before the wedding __ Make any last minute seating arrangements and adjustments. __ Update caterer with final guest count. __ Organize your wedding day attire. __ Confirm honeymoon reservations. __ Confirm reservations for out-of-town guests. __ Pack for your honeymoon.
1 day before the wedding __ Go through your list of things to do. __ Confirm transportations arrangements. __ Get a manicure and pedicure. __ Hold rehearsal dinner, give gifts to parents and wedding party. __ Put wedding attire and accessories together. __ Give rings to best man. __ Try to get a good night’s sleep!
Your wedding day! __ Eat something! __ Dress for your wedding. __ Have candid photos taken with family. __ Enjoy! You’ve worked hard!
After the honeymoon __ Have your wedding gown and flowers preserved. __ Write “thank you” notes and change your name. — Colleen Bauer is the owner of Fairy Godmother, a wedding and event planning company
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C E L E B R AT I O N S
FAIRY GODMOTHER’S FAIRY TALE Meet the creator behind the magical event-planning company By Hillary Haenes
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Colleen Bauer
PHOTO BY CHRIS THOMAS
C
oming from a family of four girls, Colleen Bauer said her mom constantly planned parties. Whether it was for holidays, baby showers or birthdays, there was always an event in the works. “It’s kind of in my blood,” said Bauer, deposit relationship manager at Rabobank for almost 12 years. “I have done many of the bank’s events and love it.” The idea to branch out to organize additional events came about in 2009, when Bauer was the chairwoman for the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference. Bauer gave the conference the makeover it needed by freshening up the logo, serving different food and changing some sponsorships. Her committee fundraised more than ever, and tickets for that year’s conference were sold out. “You are really planning a party for 1,500 people,” said Bauer. “I remember my dad saying, ‘What’s next?’” Bauer pondered that question and after the conference, several event planners reached out to her about being a day-of coordinator. This idea sparked something inside of her. So from July through November, Bauer did her research and came up with a name and logo dear to her heart. She chose the name Fairy Godmother because that’s what her niece called her, and it was fitting that a tiny fairy holding a magic wand branded her part-time business. When Bauer learned that one of the girls at the bank was getting married in January, she asked to coordinate her co-worker’s wedding for free. That was all it took — Bauer was hooked. In 2010, Fairy Godmother coordinated 24 weddings, which were all word-of-mouth referrals from vendors and clients. Mothers started to hire Bauer as a gift to the bride and groom to ensure everything ran smoothly. Eventually, brides began asking Fairy Godmother to plan engagement parties, and that gradually led to more events. “A lot of people think this business is all glam, but it’s not. You can be a server or waitress one minute and a personal assistant to the bride the next,” she said. “There are lots of personalities,
emotions and physical labor and you have to tie all that together with a pretty blue bow, a wand of magic and a smile.” Bauer’s team includes four women take a bride’s idea and design the overall look of the wedding, from the invitations to the decor. In 2013, the company planned about 100 weddings and events. With a growing business, Bauer knew she needed to call upon more fairy godmothers to help . “I’m still at the bank full-time. I love Rabobank, and I work really hard to make sure the two don’t cross over,” Bauer said. “This year, I’m transitioning from employee to owner. To make this work, you have to have a strong team, which I do.” Now that Bauer has built her team of 10, she has scaled back to planning just five weddings per year, or if someone specifically requests her. With this extra time, Bauer can focus on more corporate and charity events, which she says she is excited about. “Weddings are run systematically, but with events, you can really do anything. I think of an event as a white board, and we get to bring it to life.”
Fairy Godmother Foundation’s ‘Magical Wedding Giveaway’ During the past four years, Fairy Godmother owner Colleen Bauer has grown tremendously her wedding and event planning business. With her recent transition from being a hands-on planner to tackling more executive responsibilities, her two-year dream of giving back has finally come to fruition. She created a nonprofit called Fairy Godmother Foundation, where one local deserving couple in need will get their wishes granted by receiving a wedding at little to no cost. It’s called the Magical Wedding Giveaway. “I have been so lucky in this business and wanted to find a way to give back, creating the Fairy Godmother Foundation is a perfect way to do this. I want to do this right and do it long term,” said Bauer. Bauer reached out to various wedding vendors and others in the field to contribute their time and services for a dream wedding for a couple facing seri-
ous life-altering circumstances or facing a terminal illness. The foundation’s board will hold fundraisers throughout 2014 to help pay for the wedding. The deadline to apply is Feb. 10, 2014, and the couple chosen will be announced on Valentine’s Day on “First Look with Scott Cox.” To be considered for a 2015 spring wedding, couples must be nominated by a family member or friend who can share the couple’s love story of how they met, what obstacles the couple has faced, and what their future holds. A complete application packet, including four to five photos of the couple and two letters of recommendation, must be handwritten and mailed to Fairy Godmother Foundation, 930 Truxtun Ave., Suite 111 in Bakersfield, 93301. Visit fairygodmotherfoundation.org to read the guidelines and download an application. For those interested in volunteering or donating money to this foundation, visit the website or email Bauer at info@FairyGodmotherFoundation.org.
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WEDDING CRASHERS When it’s time to call it quits, divorce parties can provide celebratory therapy By Kelly Damian
P
ick any major life change and there is generally a party associated with it. Bridal and baby showers celebrate growing families. Anniversaries and birthdays mark the passing of time. Even wakes bring people together as lives change. But there is one major life transition which, until recently, has not been accompanied by a celebration — divorce. Still, some residents of Bakersfield are finding reason to celebrate amid the difficulties of divorce.
‘YOU STILL HAVE PEOPLE WHO CARE’ Donna Collins was in a difficult marriage, she said. As much as she wanted to have a lifelong relationship like her parents, when she found out her husband was cheating on her, she knew she needed to get a divorce. After a multitude of paperwork and court dates (for one of which her husband brought an actual date) her divorce was final. Even though she knew she would have been miserable if she had stayed in the relationship, she still felt depressed that her marriage had failed. Her friends encouraged her to throw a party to celebrate the finalizing of the divorce. To pay for the party, Collins used some of the proceeds from the sale of her wedding band and engagement ring. The party turned out to be a therapeutic and hilarious affair where she and her friends drank “divorcetinis” and played pin-the-tail on the ex. “If you can’t laugh, you’re going to cry,” said Collins. “It’s good to know that divorce is not the end of your life. You still have people who care about you.”
SUPPORTING A FRIEND When Jennifer Khachigian’s good friend from college called with an invitation to her divorce party, Khachigian was surprised to say the least. Her friend seemed to have the perfect marriage and everyone was upset by the news that they were splitting up. Khachigian went to the party, having no idea what to expect. “It ended up being more fun than the bachelorette party,” she said. 94
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The group of 12 women met in Big Sur for a weekend of camping that included music, good food and hula hoops. At night, with the campfire roaring, Khachigian’s friend threw photos, journal pages and cards into the fire. “I think it was a therapeutic part of the process of saying goodbye to a relationship that had been over for some time, to give her closure and clean the slate so she could have a fresh start,” Khachigian said.
PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVE Local bakery Gimme Some Sugar has sweetened up a few divorce parties over the past few years. While divorce cakes are not a common request, the bakery has done a full wedding cake with the bride on top and the groom in pieces, as well as another cake on which they wrote “Happily Neverafter.” “Anytime you can take a negative and turn it into a positive, that’s a good thing,” said Aaron Bowers, an employee with Gimme Some Sugar. A headstone marking the date of the wedding and the end of the marriage, RIP goody bags, and a sympathy card for the death of the marriage were all unusual details that Vickie Bohannon of Exceptional Events included in the divorce party she planned two years ago. But the guests received the biggest surprised of all when she wheeled in a casket with a picture of the ex-husband in it.
“Getting a divorce is like a death,” she said. “People take it hard, but they still want to have fun.” If the divorce party has an air of gallows humor, that shouldn’t surprise us, said Amy Richardson, a local marriage and family counselor with 23 years of experience. “Humor is a way to talk about things that are difficult,” she said. “Divorce is disturbing. It is the truncation of hopes and dreams. Think about what people say in their vows. When it doesn’t work out, that failure is devastating.” Having a party is a way to have a funeral for those old hopes and dreams, while simultaneously celebrating the possibilities that lie in the future.
BETTER WITH CAKE So are divorce parties taking Bakersfield by storm? In our conservative county, are they becoming as ubiquitous as bachelorette parties? An informal poll of bakeries, event planners and party supply stores suggests the answer to that question is “no.” However, a divorce does change a person’s life irrevocably. The day it is final marks not only the end of a relationship, but also the beginning of a new phase of life. Getting together with friends and family is one way to make that change more manageable. Besides, in the words of Aaron Bowers, “anything’s better with cake.”
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BUSINESS PROFILE
From left: Ben Gough, Sr. Controls Engineer David Wolfer, President and CEO Randy Meyer, Mechanical Engineering Division Manager
IES ENGINEERING How long has IES Engineering been around? How did it get started? IES Engineering co-founders David Wolfer and Ben Gough, throughout their almost 20 years of friendship, always knew they wanted to be innovators in their field. They set out with a vision in 1999 to “do more” — a vision that became a reality in April 2002 with the creation of Innovative Engineering Systems, Inc. Through their years of local industry experience, David and Ben were inspired to develop an engineering and construction firm that foregrounded safety, quality and integrity while remaining on the cutting edge of industry demands. With planned intentional growth, IES has enjoyed remarkable success, blossoming from a small start-up into a full-service engineering and construction company. What services does IES Engineering offer? What industries does IES Engineering serve? Services
Civil/structural engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electrical construction, control systems and automation, programming, UL panel fabrication, steam generators, laser scanning and GPS Services
IES Engineering Address: 8800 Crippen St. Phone: 381-7800 Website: ies-engr.com
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
completion” distinguishes IES from its field of competitors. The expertise of IES’ Construction Division, headed by oil and gas industry veteran Stan Johnson, also sets IES apart. Another proud piece of the puzzle is IES’ integrated, UL panel shop whose on-site fabrication is a cornerstone of the IES turnkey philosophy. Additionally, the majority of IES’ division managers are also owners of the company, having a direct stake in the continued success of IES’ vision. This feature, by design, ensures that the highest quality engineering, design, programming and construction are consistently and successfully achieved for IES clients. What is IES Engineering looking forward to in the coming year? IES is constantly developing its growing team of diversely talented and high-achieving staff. In December, IES finalized its long-awaited merger with TSM (Technical Services and Management). Principals Randy Meyer, Mark Stoner and Pete Chandler bring with them strong oil and gas expertise and an unparalleled proficiency in Aveva’s PDMS, a 3D plant design system and integrated database that allows for greater accuracy and speed in facility design, as well as much improved visualization, useful during all aspects of facility design, procurement and construction. IES is currently working directly with Aveva to expand the capability of this tremendous tool to include instrumentation and electrical design.
Industries
Oil and gas, power generation and distribution, alternative energy, food and beverage, manufacturing, mining, water and wastewater treatment What qualities distinguish IES Engineering from its competitors? IES’ broad-based capabilities, its emphasis on full-service, turnkey design, and its lived philosophy of “engineering from concept to 96
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What gives IES Engineering the most satisfaction? For IES, the greatest measure of success is exemplified in the many productive working relationships IES has, and continues to, foster with major industry clients. IES is continually striving to meet and exceed client expectations and to enhance customer loyalty. “Having repeat clients not only come back to us, but also refer us to others is a tremendous incentive for IES to continue to innovate,” said David Wolfer, IES President and CEO.
BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
RODRIGUEZ & ASSOCIATES
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Attorney Daniel Rodriguez
founder of the firm, worked in the oil fields as a young man. He understands what the oil fields are like firsthand, and how the business works, which gives him special insight into oil field cases. Joel Andreesen, Daniel Rodriguez’s law partner for more than 10 years, grew up farming and also worked on the railroads, repairing railroad tracks. It’s this kind of hands-on, real world experience in industries that matter in Kern County, and that makes
January 2014
PHOTO COURTESY OF RODRIGUEZ & ASSOCIATES
H
aving to choose a lawyer is never a comfortable position to be in. The very fact that you need a lawyer means that you or someone you care about has been hurt, and that you need help. So how do you make such an important decision? Law firms may have legal qualifications, a nice office, and a big sign on their building, but how do you know who can best represent you? How do you choose a law firm that can make a real difference? You look for what makes a law firm different, because if they don’t stand out in some way, then why choose one firm over any other? We talked with the team at Rodriguez & Associates about how they’re different. They’re local, and have the local experience that makes a real difference These days, not every law firm practicing in Kern County is actually based here. Many Los Angeles law firms now have local phone numbers but may not even have any staff here. Being local is more than about where you pick up your mail. Rodriguez & Daniel Associates Rodriguez Address: 2020 Eye St. and his Phone: 578-5687 lawyers Website: rodriguezlaw.net have been based right in downtown Bakersfield for 20 years. Rodriguez & Associates operates out of a beautifully restored brick building dating from the late 1800s (in fact, it’s one of the only buildings in Bakersfield to survive the 1952 earthquake). The firm has seven lawyers and 16 legal support staff, and they don’t have offices anywhere else. So how can being local make a difference? A law firm can even be based locally, but may not have the deep understanding of what matters here. How can you tell? Rodriguez & Associates not only calls Bakersfield home, the firm is also uniquely able to develop cases effectively because of its understanding of local issues, and the way things work in Kern County. For instance, Daniel Rodriguez, the
Rodriguez & Associates stand out. They’ve earned local respect from… The lawyers at Rodriguez & Associates are respected among their local legal peers for their effectiveness and dogged hard work. As evidence of this, Rodriguez & Associates gets many of its case referrals from within the local legal community of lawyers and judges. If experienced legal professionals trust a law firm, that’s something that makes the firm stand apart.
PA S T I M E S
Dale Gibson, left, and Sharon Garrison discuss projects to take on as they repair the community hall at Sunset Labor Camp. They both lived at the camp as children. Carpenter Ray Simmons, middle, is helping with repairs.
By Kelly Damian
Photos by Henry A. Barrios
N
o flashing lights or colorful banners direct visitors to the small cluster of wooden buildings just outside of Lamont, and yet, tourists from England, Korea and France have all made this humble place a stop on their American travel itinerary. In 1936, the Farm Security Administration built Weedpatch Camp (also known as Arvin Federal Camp and Sunset Labor Camp) to provide affordable housing to thousands of families during the time of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl. Seventeen other camps were also built across California, but Weedpatch is unique in that John Steinbeck visited several times in 1936 and used camp records for his famous novel, “The Grapes of Wrath,” which at last count has sold more than 15 million copies. Hundreds once called this place home, and Bakersfield Life recently spoke with its former residents about life at the camp.
LIFE AT THE CAMP Local residents work to preserve former historical home, Weedpatch Camp
LIFE IN WEEDPATCH Sharon Garrison’s family arrived at Weedpatch in 1945. The cabin assigned to them was basic: a wood floor and tin roof, a kerosene stove, and an orange crate to store dishes. 100
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Earl Shelton lived 14 years at the Sunset Labor Camp from 1941 to 1955. But it was an affordable and welcome shelter in a time of much hardship. For her family and the other Okies who lived there, the camp was much more than a collection of tents and cabins, it was an oasis of community and respect. Committees in charge of everything from recreation to education governed the camp. Police were not allowed in without a warrant. “We had to get along here,” Sharon said during a recent visit to the camp. “If there was a problem with a neighbor,
Utensils that would have been used by people during the Dust Bowl are displayed at the Sunset Labor Camp community hall kitchen.
you went and ironed it out.” There were strict rules that were followed to varying degrees. Cleanliness was required while alcohol and gambling were forbidden. The consequences were simple: break the rules and get tossed out of camp. Sharon’s family lived through a time of much upheaval and change. The Great Depression had pushed the country to the brink of despair. The Dust Bowl turned the southern Great Plains into a vast wasteland. And in California competition for work, the organizing of labor and the culture clash between established Californians and Okie newcomers left scars that many people would carry with them for life. But at Weedpatch, life felt simple. Sharon remembers picking cotton, swimming in the water-filled ditches, and mourning, along with the rest of the camp, after one of the young Aday boys died in an accident. The community hall hosted dances on Saturday nights and visiting preachers on Sunday. When contractors came looking for workers, Mr. Russell, the camp manager announced it over the loudspeakers. She remembers, too, when Louis Leach, the camp barber, went back to Oklahoma and everyone’s hair got long and disheveled. Camp residents took up a collection, raised $25 and funded his return back to the camp. Today, in the hall’s entryway, there are small of displays featuring household items and handcrafts made by camp residents, along with a calendar that has a picture of Sharon’s fourth birthday. Her granny’s ironing board is there too. “Bits and pieces of treasured memories, all hanging on,” she said.
Dale Gibson works to repair the old community hall at the Sunset Labor Camp, where he lived as a child.
TELLING THEIR OWN STORY Steinbeck and Hollywood may have given the public a glance at Weedpatch Camp, but it is the past residents and fellow Okies who show up every Tuesday morning to scrape, sweep and repair the camp’s community hall so that future generations may learn about the lives and experiences of the people who lived there. The camp residents have long history of pooling their resources together, and that tradition continues
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Continued from page 101 today as they raise funds for both Dust Bowl Days (held in October) and the restoration of the camp buildings. Many of the building’s windows have been replaced. Warped boards that popped up from the wood floor have been straightened. Dirt, spiders and bats have been chased out of the rafters, but much remains to be done. The upper windows still need to be replaced, photos to aid in the re-creation of the post office need to be found, and the vast amount of information and artifacts collected by Doris Weddell and other members of the community needs to be curated and made public. Although sometimes daunting, the work itself brings a sense of satisfaction. Sharon finds the Tuesdays spent at the camp are peaceful and therapeutic, “like coming home,” she said. For the dedicated individuals who show up every week, the restoration project is worth the effort. This is their chance to tell their own story, to remember the struggles and triumphs, the pain and perseverance during a time that changed our sleepy valley forever.
The community hall at the Sunset Labor Camp was once used for dancing and church services.
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HOME AND GARDEN
Tips to keep your home comfortable and the costs down during winter By Marissa Lay
W
inter is here, which means a rise in cost to make your home comfortable. But opening that first electricity bill of the winter doesn’t have to ruin your New Year. Here are a few things you can do around your home to help contain the heat and calm your heating cost nerves.
WHERE IS THE HEAT GOING? Heater units are designed to heat certain areas of your home, but that heat doesn’t always stay within those desired areas. “Remember, heat rises and flows to where there’s a lack of heat,” said Glenn Bland, CEO of Bland Solar & Air. “When it’s cold outside, any opening or leak becomes like a vacuum for
heat to escape the building envelope.” These fixes can be made to ensure the heat stays inside. • Inadequate duct systems: The duct system delivers air from the furnace into the house. “Leaky duct work allows heat to escape through your vents, even when the system is off,” Bland said. Some duct systems in Bakersfield homes could have been installed 20 or 30 years ago and were made to different standards than are necessary now. “A lot of the air ... is lost in the attic space, which causes utility bills to go up and the customers not quite as comfortable” said Mark DeVries, president of One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning. “A lot of the times, people replace their heater or air conditioner, and they don’t replace the duct work.” • Evaporative coolers: Your swamp cooler may prove efficient and be helpful in the summer, but it can become a heat sucker in the winter. It is important to remember to “winterize” your system, so the heat doesn’t rise and exit through the cooler. A slide damper and cover should be installed for the winter, said Bland.
WHAT NOT TO DO • Do not try to replace or repair the system or the duct work on your own, said DeVries. It is important to always call a trained professional, as dealing with natural gas and power is dangerous work.
Setting your thermostat a few degrees below normal while you are away is more efficient than turning it off and reheating the house when you return.
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• Do not turn off the heater all day when you’re gone. The result is your walls, furniture and fixtures get cold. “Once they get home and turn it back on, it runs for an extended amount of time,” said DeVries. “Your heater has to work overtime and it ends up spending more gas than it Quick tips for would have if they winter comfort would have just left it Make your home more comfortat a constant temable in the winter using these tips, courtesy of Bland and DeVries. perature.” It’s also helpful to • Insulate the walls, floors, and attic to your home. The insulation keep the temperawill help contain the heat. ture within two • Add weather stripping around degrees lower of door jams and windows. where you want it set • Close the dampers on your firewhen you’re home. place, when not in use. And remember, • Get your system serviced twice running the heater a year. uses only about the • Change the filters on a monthly same power as runbasis. ning a ceiling fan, said Bland. The majority of the cost is on fuel.
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CHEAP AND EASY Two of the best improvements are cheap and easy, said Bland: attic insulation and duct sealing. Set up payment plans if purchasing a new duct system, air conditioner or heater. No longer do you have to put down a $10,000 payment. Customers can finance into very manageable payment plans as low as $50 to $100 per month, DeVries said. “That is offset by the power and gas they save,” he said. “A lot of the times they come up saving money on top of that.” For more tips, go to bakersfieldlife.com — More information on One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning: 327.7323 or onehourair.com; More information on Bland Solar & Air: 836-3880 or blandsolar.com.
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HISTORY
The Southern Hotel was a center of celebration on New Year's Eve 100 years ago.
By Ken Hooper
Photos courtesy of Kern County Museum
O
n the eve of 1914, Bakersfield was a booming city and the citizens threw themselves a welldeserved New Year’s Eve celebration. On New Year’s Day, The Bakersfield Californian stated: “Down in the business district there were throngs of people, the streets becoming active as the hands of the town clock [the Beale Memorial Clock Tower in Chester Avenue] approached the hour of twelve. Then a few minutes before the old year died, a whistle somewhere emitted a wild shriek, and that was the signal for the noise making to begin.” As the whistles shrieked, the changes in Kern County were evident in 1913. The city had purchased the old Kern County Courthouse and was remodeling it into a new library, city offices, and the home of the Board of Trade. The East Bakersfield Library was under construction and the Bakersfield City Fire Department was adding two new “auto-driven fire apparatus.” Bakersfield City School District had finished Williams and Franklin Elementary schools in 1913, and a third
BELLS, WHISTLES, ‘FIRING OF GUNS AND BOMBS’ — BAKERSFIELD WELCOMES 1914 A growing, thriving city threw itself a well-deserved New Year’s Eve celebration 100 years ago
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At the Southern Hotel, guests danced away the merry hours, The Bakersfield Californian reported in 1913. building would be finished in 1914 as more than 400 new students were added to the district in one year alone. The City of Bakersfield issued 408 building permits for a value of $760,000 as the new Mercy Hospital, new businesses, churches, apartments, and shops were constructed from the downtown core to East Bakersfield. July of 1913 saw the county citizens pass a $2.5 million
Continued on page 108
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Continued from page 106
Legendary driver Barney Oldfield established a new record for a mile on a dirt track in 1913.
bond to build highways and county roads. The Kern River oil field and the Midway and Sunset oil fields were pulling in families from all over the United States. Agriculture expanded in 1913 as 700 new irrigation pumps were installed and 20,000 acres of new irrigated acreage was added to Kern County. The Kern County Fair Association opened one of the country’s best new dirt automobile tracks on north Chester in 1913 (the track was between today’s Sam Lynn Ball Park and the Kern County Museum). At the opening meet, legendary driver Barney Oldfield established a new record for a mile on a dirt track in his “fore-drive Christie ‘Cyclone’” in 46.25 seconds. As record economic growth came to Kern County in 1913 and the books were closed on a prosperous year, the city prepared to celebrate. “Within the restaurants and hotels, there were scenes of gaiety that endured long after the New Year was a reality. At the Southern (Hotel) tables had been reserved by merrymakers, there was music from the orchestra, and guests danced away the merry hours,” The Bakersfield Californian reported. “The old year is dead, and with its passing bedlam broke loose in the city, every noise making device being used to welcome 1914. There were whistles of course — there always are — but as the clocks chimed twelve it seemed as if there were one
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January 2014
in every block. From stationary and moving (train) engines came the shrieks, and to these were added the ringing of bells, the blowing of horns and the firing of guns and bombs. Out in the residence districts there were fusillades of fire crackers and pistol shots and for a full half hour the noises blended celebration of the birth of the New Year.” After a week of rain, New Year’s Day 1914 dawned with a sunny and unseasonable warm 68 degrees. The evening edition of The Bakersfield Californian reflected on New Year’s Day that, “Many automobile parties, tempted by the glories of the day, sought the open country where field and plain were covered in verdure, while about the city the New Year greetings were doubly sincere because of the perfect weather that indeed bespoken a happy and pleasant 1914.” People awakened on New Year’s Day to an editorial in the Bakersfield Morning Echo newspaper stating, “In health and spirits we are in good condition to meet and appropriate the opportunities of the New Year.” On the eve of 2014, 100 years later, this is a sentiment that resonates across the century to the people of Kern County. — Ken Hooper is a history and archiving teacher at Bakersfield High School. He is the past-president of the Kern County Historical Society and the current historian for the Kern Veteran’s Memorial Foundation.
1. Protect those teeth, ask how! 2. Preventative care: be proactive and get a check up even though everything seems good. 3. Exercise...run, jump, swim, chase, play! 4. Prevent ingestion of poisons and dangerous materials. 5. More TLC, your pet will love you for it! 6. ID your pet with a collar, tags and especially a microchip. Remember to keep your phone number and address updated!
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Kern County Historical Society Programs for 2013-14 (all dates are Saturdays) Jan. 18: “Basques of Kern County” Part II by Steve Bass Feb. 15: “Downtown Walking Tour” by Ken Hoper March 15: “Prohibition in Kern County” by Richard Roux April 19: “Kern County’s Banning of the Grapes of Wrath” by Marci Lingo May 17: “The Geology of Kern County” by Jack Pierce For more information on monthly meeting programs, visit www.kchistoricalsociety.org
Kern Veterans Oral History Project Become part of history one more time. The Kern Veterans Oral History Project is a coordinated project including the Kern County Historical Society, Bakersfield High School’s CEO Academy students, and KGET-TV Channel 17. The project is supported and advised by numerous veterans groups and organizations in Kern County. If you are veteran of Kern County and want to share your story on your service to our country, we are willing to listen. Regardless of the conflict, branch of service or length of service, any stories that former servicemen and women are willing to share, we can record. Please contact the Kern County Historical Society at kchs1931@gmail.com.
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IN MY CLOSET
Kelly Geis’ style exudes a classic, feminine look with an occasional edge. 110
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KELLY GEIS A fashionista with a feminine, yet, edgy look By Hillary Haenes
Photos by April Massirio
Editor’s Note: In honor of the New Year, Bakersfield Life is proud to launch a new fashion feature called In My Closet. To kick it off, Bakersfield Life sought someone who truly loves all things fashion, Kelly Geis.
I
f there is one thing Kelly Geis knows, it’s style. The local homemaker’s style exudes a classic, feminine look with an occasional edge. We asked the trendy 45-year-old to let us take a peek inside her large, organized closet, which she proudly accepted and showed off some of her favorite pieces. Five prized possessions in my closet: Genuine fur sweater by Dana Stein, a handmade wool fedora, Italian leather boots from Anthropologie that I scored on sale, a lavender/gold silk gown by Tracy Reese (my first designer purchase ever), and turquoise Rebecca Minkoff purse. Why I love fashion: Fashion is art! It is an expression of who you are and can be changed on a whim. I love putting together that perfect outfit, or making a current trend my own. Fashion is important to me because: It is a statement of time and place. It is a reflection of our culture, and it’s a part of our history. I love being a part of that.
My fashion icons: Victoria Beckham, Anne Hathaway and Ivanka Trump. From past decades, I admire Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and, of course, Coco Chanel. Favorite designers: A few Geis' Dana Stein find. include Calvin Kline, Trina Turk, Joie, L’Wren Scott and Karen Millen. Where I like to shop: Locally, I shop at Bella at The Marketplace. Out of town, I frequently go to The Americana at Brand in Glendale, and Ambiance and Romp boutiques in San Luis Obispo. Occasionally, I go to Santa Barbara or Santa Monica. My biggest fashion faux pas: A few years back, I purchased and wore a green silk romper that was a little too short for me. My 16-year-old is now the proud owner of the romper. One staple every woman should have in her closet: Everyone will tell you the LBD (little black dress), but I say the YBD (your best dress)! The dress that fits to perfection, in a color that is your most flattering, and you can throw it on and head out the door feeling beautiful and confident! Fashion advice: It is important to know yourself, your personal style and your body. Once you are confident in your own style, don’t be a slave to trends, but Geis' favorite dress. incorporate a few that you like into your wardrobe every season. I gather all of my favorite fashion magazines right before a new season begins to see what is trending. I decide what I like and make a mental list of the things I will be on the hunt for in the coming season.
Do you know someone who is fashionable, or has an amazing closet? Email us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: In My Closet.
Some of Geis’ favorite accessories. bakersfieldlife.com
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INSIDE STORY
BAKERSFIELD CONDORS’ LOCKER ROOM By Mark Nessia
A wall features photos of former Condors players who have made it to the National Hockey League. It’s likely the goal of every player in the ECHL.
T
he Bakersfield Condors season 2013-14 is moving along full steam. We took a peek behind the scenes to get the Inside Story on the team’s locker room.
Head Coach Troy Mann’s office was renovated to create two separate offices.
The Condors training room contains ice tubs, a hot tub, exercise bikes and training tables.
Team Captain Joel Broda’s stall with jersey front and center.
The Condors’ mission is simple: Bring the Kelly Cup to Bakersfield. Players pass by this reminder as they make their way onto the ice at Rabobank Arena.
A reminder to players as they head out onto the ice. 112
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Anyone who enters the locker room must avoid stepping on the Condors logo in the center at all costs.
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STREETS OF BAKERSFIELD
Chest er Ave .
Eye St.
CHESTER AVENUE, DOWNTOWN
8
Story and photos by Mark Nessia
I
n the heart of Downtown Bakersfield is a street lined with longtime local shops and restaurants, arts and entertainment havens and among the most historical points in town. It’s Chester Avenue. Here are few interesting spots to stop along the way.
K St.
24th St.
23rd St.
22st St.
7 21st St.
H3 20th St.
6 4
5 H2 19th St.
Wall St.
3 18th St.
17th St.
The Gift Box (1704 Chester Ave.) is
your one-stop shop for unique gifts and collectibles with items for anniversaries, showers, birthdays and more. There is something for everybody, with personal shopping and gift wrapping services available for even the busiest of shoppers.
H1
Chest er Ave .
1
2 1 Truxtun Ave.
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7
Guarantee Shoe Center (2101 Chester
Ave.) is family-owned and operated, and has been pairing name brand shoes with overthe-top customer service since 1953. With an extensive collection — ranging from business to casual from many top brands — Guarantee is true to its name. And it doesn’t stop at shoes. The store has an extensive selection of handbags and jewelry, as well.
2
Bike Bakersfield (1708 Chester Ave.) is a nonprofit bicycle advocacy group with a mission is to promote bicycling as a safe and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation. Members and non-members can access the full-service bike kitchen to keep bicycles running efficiently, or even build their own from one of the donated bicycles in exchange for 20 hours of volunteer service.
3
Jerry’s Pizza (1817 Chester Ave.) is where good food and good music collide. A downtown staple since 1992, Jerry’s took the pizza scene by storm with his signature white sauce. He later expanded his menu to include burgers, sandwiches, pasta and salads, but it’s the music scene that really sets this place apart. Jerry’s unique basement houses live music on weekends and special occasions.
4
Fred Cummings Motorsports (2211 Chester Ave.) has all your powersports needs covered — from street bikes to ATVs, to scooters and personal watercraft. With an extensive selection of new and pre-owned vehicles and a service department of experienced technicians, there’s no need to go anywhere else.
Vests Market
(1831 Chester Ave.) sits in a building that is among the first local retail stores in town, dating back to the 19th century. Though the store name changed slightly in the early 2000s — from Vest’s Drugs established in 1936 — the store continues to offer customers a place to cash checks, pay their utility bills and buy hot dogs, in addition to a hot and cold deli, snacks and toiletries.
5
Timeless Furnishings (1918 Chester
Ave.) is Bakersfield’s source for vintage furniture, antiques and collectibles, and has been for the past 18 years. Featuring high-end furniture at rock-bottom prices, the shop has everything you want to transform your home to the home of your dreams, without breaking the bank.
6
8
Stars Theatre Restaurant (1931 Chester Ave.) redefines the dinner-and-show concept, combining gourmet dining with live theater in one cozy venue. Broadway musicals and comedies paired with award-winning dining make for an evening you won’t soon forget.
Historical Chester H1
Kern County Hall of Records (1655 Chester Ave.), constructed in 1909, is the longest continuously used government building in Kern County, and is one of the few government buildings to survive the 1952 earthquake, which measured 7.3 on the moment magnitude scale.
H2
The Hopkins Building (northeast corner of Chester Avenue and 19th Street) opened in 1905 as office space, and is the oldest building that still retains some of its former skin.
H3
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History (2018 Chester Ave.) was opened to the public in 1905 as Union Theater, then became the Parra Theater, then the Freear, and finally, the Hippodrome. It could not be used as a theater after the 1952 earthquake, and became the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History in 1995.
Source: Local historian Gilbert Gia bakersfieldlife.com
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PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
PERSONALITY
Bryan Burrows, CEO of the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra 116
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THE MUSIC BUSINESS Business savvy Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra CEO, president hoping to hit the right notes with community By Lisa Kimble
T
hroughout the ages, the marriage between artistry and business has always been a carefully orchestrated dance, much like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite — part Sugar Plum Fairy, part Arabian coffee dancers. But at a time when many symphonies across the country have closed their doors, the viability of such venerable arts organizations, like the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, are hinging on a pragmatic, businesslike approach of reinvention. Bryan Burrow, president and CEO of the Bakersfield Symphony since March of last year, is answering that call. He’s a man on a mission to reintroduce the “BSO” to the community. As part of the organization’s re-branding efforts, he is speaking to community groups and potential donors and sponsors, showing off its new logo and full color program, and boasting of earlier concert start times. It is all in an effort to inspire a new generation. No, this is not your grandparent’s symphony orchestra. Not by a long shot. So far, the attempt to reach out to a wider audience and demographic appears to be working. Attendance is up and season ticket sales are increasing. But the changes also come amid esteemed Maestro John Farrer’s final season. —Bryan Burrow Farrer, who has been conducting the symphony orchestra since 1974, is stepping down from the conductor’s podium of the treasured local institution. He had also been the organization’s director. “Change is always an intriguing time, but we are trying to do it thoughtfully by celebrating the success BSO and John have had,” Burrow says.
“
Change is always an intriguing time, but we are trying to do it thoughtfully by celebrating the success BSO and John have had.
”
NO FAST TRACK Burrow, 43, is a long way from Louisiana where he grew up playing tuba first chair in school. “It would have never crossed my mind that one day I would be the director of a symphony orchestra,” Burrow says laughing.
Continued on page 118
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Continued from page 117 “I absolutely love it.” A graduate of Abilene Christian University, where he studied youth and family ministry, he received his master’s degree in business administration from Cal State Bakersfield, where he focused on finance. It’s not exactly the fast track to directorship of a symphony orchestra. “If you think about it, it is all related because all of it is about relationships,” he says. “Bakersfield, as a community, is all about relationships. People think I have been here for a long time because of the relationships I have made.” No stranger to the San Joaquin Valley, Burrow lived a few years in Livermore and Stockton. He and his wife, Kayla, a pharmacist, moved to Bakersfield in 1997 where Bryan’s parents lived so he could complete his master’s degree. They are the parents of two boys. A past chairman of both the CSUB president’s and the Leadership Bakersfield Advisory councils, and CSUB 2010 “Alumnus of the Year” who helped spearhead the university’s Hall of Fame program, Burrow was honing his nonprofit skills while working in finance.
BUSINESS AND PLEASURE Several years ago, his focus shifted to business consulting. “The BSO is a gem in our community, and when I became
its interim director, it was during that time that I saw enormous potential, and I thought I could add value,” he says. Burrow stepped in July 2012. The re-branding also involved cost cutting, staff restructuring and a move to a more business-centric approach. “Because of the wisdom of this board to make changes, it has helped us to survive. Part of the strategy we put together was the changing of titles and transitions, allowing the music director to focus on music,” Burrow says. “One of my main goals is to run this as a good business, not just a nonprofit.” With a $1 million a year budget and a staff of six, plus 65 musicians, Burrow is also taking aim at young people, who listen to symphony style music at the movies or on television often without realizing it. “Our hope is to inspire a new generation to enjoy symphony music. We want guests to be mesmerized, and on the edge of their seats,” he said. “So much of what we do is wonderful music, and the musicians want to have that transcendent experience.” And just as to change, is to grow, Burrow said he hopes to improve the quality of life here. “BSO is a very important organization in Bakersfield and speaks to the character and culture of this community, which improves our quality of life,” Burrow said. “If people understand this is a fantastic organization, they will come and be inspired.”
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REAL PEOPLE
EYE OF A PRIVATE ‘I’
Local private investigator chats about assignments, training, skills of the trade By Kevin McCloskey
F
ar from his hometown of Aliquippa, Penn., Herbert “Bert” Thomas settled in Bakersfield after four years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps shortly after high school. A descendent of eight generations of steel workers, Thomas was denied the opportunity of following in his family’s footsteps when their steel mill closed when he was 16. Instead, Thomas worked in Bakersfield as a driver, salesman and finally sales manager for W. A. Thompson Inc. before moving on to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He started Thomas Professional Investigations in March 2003. This husband, father and stepfather of six, and grandfather of six took some time to share with Bakersfield Life what it’s like in the field of private investigations.
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
How did you first get started as a private investigator? I was injured in the course of my duties as a correctional sergeant at California State Prison, Corcoran during a riot. While going through two spinal surgeries and recovery, I was con-
Bert Thomas has been a private investigator for 10 years. 120
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January 2014
tacted by two family friends who spoke to me about becoming a private investigator. Can you tell us about your training and P-I history? After my background check, I attended the West Coast Detective Academy in Los Angeles. The rest of my skills came from my job and life experience, as well as my ability to talk to anyone. I have a strong skill in that area and can often get people to talk when they don’t necessarily want to. What skills make for a good private investigator? You have to have good communication skills, some computer knowledge and the ability to write reports. You will spend a lot of time talking to people, and a good P-I gets more using honey than vinegar. By that, I mean you should always approach your subjects with compassion and understanding instead of trying to intimidate them. When you use intimidation, they will shut down because you’re making them uncomfortable. When you first speak with someone, if you put them at ease and make them feel comfortable, they will be much more likely to talk to you and give you the information you need.
providers are my biggest clients, as well as doing background checks on potential hires for businesses. Anyone in the private sector can also have a need for a private investigator from time to time. What is your favorite type of assignment? One where I am able to show the District Attorney’s office or the courts that someone has been wrongfully accused, they get acquitted or the charges are dropped, and that person is able to return to their normal life or job. What about least favorite? My least favorite type of case is when I attempt to help someone, and they do nothing to help themselves ... or jobs that mostly involve phone calls. It’s much more difficult to get interviews over the phone than in person because of the ease in which they can just hang up. It is so much easier to make a connection with someone face to face and being able to read their body language can add a great deal to the investigation. What is the biggest misconception many people have about private investigators? When I tell people what I do for a living, they immediately
Who hires private investigators these days? Attorneys and workers’ compensation insurance
Continued on page 122
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Continued from page 121 assume that I sit around in my car all day and take pictures of people. That does occur, but it’s a very small part of what a P-I does. What’s your advice for someone who wants to follow in your line of work? I feel that any person can achieve the goals they set for themselves in life, but you must cover all the bases to become a private investigator. You must have a good appearance, excellent communication skills, strong report writing skills and the ability to read reports and fully understand the scope of the investigations needs. If you could be one fictional P-I for a day, who would it be? It would have to be Magnum, P.I. Living a great life, driving a fantastic car and dealing with beautiful people — it couldn’t get much better than that.
For more on Thomas and his work, go to bakersfieldlife.com. Or call him at 634-9496, and visit his office at 1412 17th St., Suite 309.
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We consider Bakersfield our home and our clients our friends so lets ring in the new year with a new place to call home. Best wishes from your family at Premier Realty!
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FIT AND FRESH
By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann
JANUARY EVENTS 24th annual Fog Run 5K, 10K: Often foggy, usually chilly, always fun. Come out to this long-standing running event, where you can see old friends, exercise with 400 others, eat a good lunch and win a raffle prize. It will be held Jan. 11 at Lake Ming, and benefits the Kern County Victim Witness Auxiliary. More information: bakersfieldtrackclub.com 10th Annual Rio Bravo Rumble: This Jan. 18 event, at 9 a.m. at Rio Bravo Ranch, is held in a truly beautiful location near the mouth of the canyon, offering challenging and diverse terrain. Options include a biathlon (10K run, 20-mile bike ride), team biathlon, solo events (5K, 10K run, easy 13-mile bike course, challenging 20mile bike course, or a near half marathon. Free kids races starting around noon. Register early; prices go up $10 for late entry after Jan. 10.
SQUAT, SALAD AND SAUERKRAUT
WHAT’S READY TO HARVEST IN YOUR GARDEN Even though January may be our chilliest, grayest month, we are fortunate to still have an abundance of delicious produce ready to harvest in the valley. Some of those vegetables and fruits include arugula, leaf lettuce, broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cilantro, endive, collard greens, daikon, dill, garlic, kale leeks, lemongrass, mint and Swiss chard.
PROBIOTICS: WHY THEY ARE IMPORTANT TO OUR DIET Probiotics are microorganisms that help maintain the natural balance of organisms, sometimes called microflora.
The Fog Run is in its 24th year.
The normal human digestive tract contains hundreds of types of probiotic bacteria that promote a healthy digestive system. The largest group of probiotic bacteria in the intestine is lactic acid bacteria — the best known one being lactobacillus acidophilus, which is found in yogurt with live cultures and also yeast. Many people use probiotics to prevent diarrhea, gas and cramping caused by antibiotics. Antibiotics kill “good bacteria” along with the bacteria that cause illness. Probiotics can also be beneficial to prevent and treat vaginal yeast infec-
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
Baby potato sala w ith arugula and dill with yogurt dresd sing
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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Introduce more probiotics into diets, try squats and potato salad, join runs and ‘rumble’ to start the New Year
2 pounds new potatoes (little white ones) 1/2 cup Fage yogurt 1/4 cup mayonnaise Green onions with gre en ends on, finely choppe d (3) Small bunch fresh dill, finely chopped Large bunch fresh arugul a, chopped coarsely Parmesan shavings Directions: Put the pot atoes in salted boiling water; simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes are chop into bite size pieces soft. Drain. Take the hot potatoes and . Wh isk tog ether yogurt small bowl. Fold into wa rm potatoes; add the cho and mayo in a chopped dill, season wit h salt and pepper. Fold pped green onions, ate for at least an hou r before serving. Simple in arugula. Refrigerand find fresh dill for this rec ipe; it really makes it spe delicious. Try to cial.
tions, urinary tract infections and irritable bowel syndrome; reduce the occurrence of bladder cancer and Crohn’s Disease; prevent and treat of eczema in children; and reduce the severity of colds and flu. Probiotics are found in yogurt, while prebiotics are found in whole grains, bananas, onions, garlic, honey and artichokes. Prebiotics are non-digestible carbs that act as food for probiotics. When probiotics and prebiotics are combined, they form a symbiotic relationship. Fermented dairy products, such as yogurt or kefir, are considered symbiotic because they contain live bacteria and the fuel they need to thrive.
EXERCISE OF THE MONTH: SQUAT The squat exercise is commonly used to train the muscles of the thighs, hips, buttocks, quads and hamstrings, as well as strengthening bones, ligaments and insertion of tendons. Begin in standing position, bend the knees and hips to lower the torso, return to upright position. Keep knees
Vickie Brown begins a squat in standing position.
Vickie Brown bends her knees and hips to lower her torso and returns to an upright position to finish a squat.
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
Probiotics in little tummies As the cold weather settles in, so does the cold and flu season. There is no better place to find a nasty virus or “bug” than in a classroom. There is no doubt about it, my kindergartener’s classroom can be a virtual petri dish. While washing sticky little hands and covering sneezy little mouths limits the spread of germs, another way to prevent illness in our little ones is to bolster their immune systems. Serving up meals heavy with fruits and vegetables that are rich in nutrients — like vitamins C and E, plus beta-carotene and zinc — is the gold standard. However, there is a lot of new evidence that suggests probiotics and a healthy digestive tract aid our immune systems in powerful ways. It doesn’t take much to a throw pint–sized immune system off track. Introducing probiotics into your children’s diet is an effective weapon in your arsenal to keep your family healthy. But, if your kid is anything like mine, good luck trying to get them to eat sour kraut or kefir. The good news is there are a number of probiotic rich yogurts and drinks in grocery stores that taste great and are super healthy. One product I am particularly fond of is Yakult. It is a small probiotic drink sold in packs of eight and it is truly tasty. In fact, I have somehow managed to convince my 5-year-old that Yakult is a treat that can only be enjoyed after he’s finished all his breakfast. I am actually bribing him to eat his cheerios and pancakes with health food. If your little one does get sick and you find yourself filling a prescription for an antibiotic, it is all the more important to back fill his diet with yogurts and other sources of probiotics. While the antibiotic is doing its job, do what you can to replace all of the good bacteria going by the way side. Your kiddo’s tiny tummy will thank you.
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
These foods are naturally high in probiotics: • Kefir: A thick, creamy beverage, which contains a mixture of beneficial yeasts and bacteria, rich in probiotic cultures. • Apples: Contain friendly bacteria providing perfect conditions for a beneficial balance of microorganisms. • Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage. • Miso: Fermented soy, used in soups to season dishes.
aligned with the direction of the toes. Do not flex torso too far forward to avoid stress on the lower back. Start by performing three sets of five squats. As you progress, increase reps and then try adding weight. bakersfieldlife.com
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H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S
Irene Skau, a Native American medicine woman who opened Sacred Space in June 2012, sits in the healing room.
By Deborah Ramirez Tinoco
Photos by Felix Adamo
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he Yokuts’ Woilo tribe once inhabited the land that surrounds H and Blanche streets and considered this particular area sacred land. The southwest corner home at the intersection has hosted a variety of different businesses since the 1980s, including more recently New Insight, but the building sat dormant for more than a year when the owner closed shop. In June 2012, a Native American medicine woman transformed this home into exactly as it is named today, a Sacred Space. When you enter this old two-story home with ivy grown over the exterior, you immediately feel a calm and are welcomed by a spiritual sense of wholeness. Irene Skau has created a space where people can find spiritual healing and guidance, not only by the essence of Sacred Space, but also by the many offerings of spiritual assistance and guidance. Skau, originally of Bakersfield, has practiced spiritual healing for 19 years and spent the last seven years dividing
A SACRED SPACE Local Native American medicine woman opens shop to heal mind, body and soul
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A variety of boxes of incense are available at the Sacred Space, 1037 H St. time between Bakersfield and Los Angeles but returned to Bakersfield full time to be close to family. Each month, classes are offered on empowerment techniques and methods for self-improvement. Skau also sells books, jewelry, candles, incense, sage, angels and artifacts from different religions and beliefs. She, as well as other spiritual guides, offer readings and healing rituals and ceremonies by appointment. For some of these healers, there’s such a word of mouth demand that you must book well in advance.
This cabinet at Sacred Space holds a selection of incense and sage. “What I do and what we offer at Sacred Space gets to the core of the problem,” Skau said. “Understanding is powerful medicine. By understanding the core of what troubles you, you’re better able to heal all parts — the mind, body and soul. Healing all the parts is comprehensive and essential to good health and an overall sense of well-being.” Teresa Caputo, a television personality nicknamed the “Long Island Medium,” has brought much awareness to connecting with those we love that have gone beyond, and Skau is our own local spiritual guide that has brought understanding, closure and healing to many seekers in our community. Nancy Dunn, who has known Skau for more than 35 years, called Skau a “dedicated and loving medicine woman who exhibits natural heartfelt energies.” “When you meet Irene, you are immediately transformed.” However, there are skeptics, and Skau is well aware of them. “All religions have rituals, and I’m no different,” she said. “I have prayer, I light candles, I honor a higher being, I have song, and I use incense to make deeper connections. Everyone has a right to (his or her) own opinion, and when people are ready, they’ll find ... they’ll know.” Even for those ruled by the house of logic and don’t venture far into realms not easily explained by logic, Skau can bring closure and understanding where it’s believed there is none. Skau invites readers to find their own sacred space, healing and understanding. Sacred Space is at 1037 H St., open Monday through Saturday. (843-7905, irene@bearheartmedicine.com) — Deborah Tinoco, who was born and raised in Bakersfield, is adjunct instructor of sociology at Bakersfield College and Cal State Bakersfield. bakersfieldlife.com
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GOLF
By Jacque Servadio
Photos by Mark Nessia
H
ow many people hitting balls at local driving ranges have clubs on the ground to assist their alignment as they practice? Let me tell you, it’s a very small percentage. On the flip side, if you were to look at the driving range at a PGA or LPGA Tour event, it would be a completely different story. Even the best players in the world use alignment rods and clubs on the ground to check and confirm proper alignment every time they practice. The next time you head over to the local range for a practice session, create a proper hitting station. As pictured here, you will need two clubs or alignment sticks on the ground: one to line up your feet and the other to check your ball position. Since your toe line is parallel to your target line, aim the feet club a few yards left of your target. Lay the other club perpendicular to your target line to ensure proper ball position. The smallest change in ball position or alignment can wreak havoc on your game, so make sure you pay close attention to these two key fundamentals. Practicing this way will train your body to be oriented to the target properly. Once out on the course, you will be able to feel when your alignment is off. Take the seventh hole at Kern River Golf Course, for example: a dog leg left, par 4 that always gives golfers a lot of trouble. If you suffer from poor alignment, you are almost sure to hit it to the right because the fairway is going one direction, while your ball flight needs to go a different direction. When golfers can feel the proper alignment to the target, they will have the confidence to swing the club toward the target. If alignment is off, they will feel it, and can back away and reload. This is huge, but does this guarantee you will hit the ball to your target? Well, no, but it does guarantee that your alignment wasn’t the problem. You will start hitting it more consistently on the course once you become consistent with your alignment and ball position. So take a few seconds and set up this hitting station the next time you practice. You will love the results. Happy practicing.
PRACTICE LIKE A PRO
— Jacque Servadio, an LPGA Class A teaching professional at Kern River Golf Course, specializes in skill-based golf instruction. More information, appointments: www.jsgolfinstruction.com, 3015944 or jacque@jsgolfinstruction.com.
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Use alignment sticks to create a proper hitting station.
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TRIP PLANNER
CHILLING IN CHICO
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICO STATE
Northern California college town offers charm few other places can match
Chico is among the most bike-friendly cities in California.
By Jorge Barrientos
T
CHICO LIFE Chico is no small town, but it still feels like one, much like Bakersfield, even as it inches toward 100,000 residents. It was founded in 1860 by John Bidwell, whose name appears throughout the town. Visit the three-story Victorian Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park in the center of town to learn more. Founded less than 30 years later, Chico State is the 130
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Chico State’s campus features more than 200 different species of trees, attractive architecture, a rose garden and notable art pieces.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICO STATE
here’s something about Chico — the quaint, intimate and welcoming college town 90 miles north of Sacramento. Just ask any Chico State grads who have called the town home, including Bakersfield’s Rob Meszaros in the Communications Department at Kern County Superintendent of Schools. Full disclosure: I’m also a proud Chico State grad. They’ll tell you how they remember the good times in college, how beautiful the town is, and how much fun there is to be had in that area for people of all ages, not just college kids. “There are few places that have the same college town charm as Chico,” said Meszaros, who has visited his alma mater many times over the years. “This was one of my favorite things about the campus and the surrounding downtown area. The whole place exudes character.” Here are just a few more reasons to make a trip up north to Chico.
second oldest CSU campus and the epicenter of If you go: Chico Chico life — one on the web end of campus • Chico State: csuchico.edu starts with First • Chico Chamber of Commerce: Avenue and the chicochamber.com other starts with • City off Chico: First Street. When chicoeconomicdevelopment.com (“Visiting Here” tab) class is in session, • 101 things to do in and students make up around Butte County: about 15 percent 101thingstodo.net of the population. The university gets the bad rap for being just a “party school,” and if you’re looking for a good time, of course you won’t have a problem. Within a onemile walk of campus are 52 bars and alcohol-serving restaurants, according to Sacramento Bee. But really, that’s just a small portion of what the school offers, which is something Chicoans and grads fight to explain to stereotypers. Simply, it’s a top-notch academic institution. Take a stroll through campus to find more than 200 different species of trees, Big Chico Creek flowing through the middle, attractive architecture, a rose garden and art pieces throughout. Wander into Chico’s downtown seamlessly from the cam-
Downtown Chico has abundant examples of an appreciation for arts and culture, rich architecture, and an array of shops, bars and restaurants.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICO STATE
Chico regularly hosts free outdoors concerts, festivals and farmers markets.
pus and explore, by foot or bike (several bike shops downtown provide rentals), an area that features roads canopied by mature trees, abundant examples of an appreciation for arts and culture, more rich architecture, and an array of shops, bars, restaurants and other businesses. Museums, art and theaters are a plenty, including the Chico Museum and National Yo-Yo Museum and Blue Room Theatre.
OUTDOORS CONNECTION The city itself is deeply connected with the outdoors. Chico is designated a “Tree City USA” and it’s home the one of the largest municipal parks in the country, the 3,600-acre Bidwell Park. Chico has been ranked among the “Best Green Places to Live” by U.S. News & World Report and “Best Places in America” by Forbes Magazine. In Bidwell Park you can take a one of dozens of hike trails, many of them open to horses and bikes, take a dip in the creek and various swimming holes, or enjoy a picnic amongst the wildlife — all just minutes away from the center of town. The city also regularly hosts free outdoors concerts, festivals and farmers markets. Check schedules before your visit.
DOWNTOWN VARIETY With nearly 500 businesses, shops and restaurants in the
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downtown area — according to Downtown Chico Business Association’s boundaries — you’d be hard pressed to find another downtown quite like Chico’s, says Aveed Khaki, a 29-year-old lifelong Chico resident. “I’ve watched Downtown Chico develop into a true shopper and foodie paradise,” said Khaki, proprietor of a downtown upscale men’s clothing store, Formal Education, and publisher of Chico’s Upgraded Living Magazine. Grab tasty bites at the famous and unique Madison Bear Garden (or simply “The Bear”), big-flavor burgers at Nobby’s, hearty authentic burritos at Aca Taco, or a classic and plentiful breakfast at Morning Thunder. For fancier fare, have a gourmet dinner from award-winning chef Anne Leon at Leon Bistro. Sit back with a drink at The Banshee, Naked Lounge or with the college crowd at Panama Bar Cafe. Wander a bit out of downtown for a must-visit experience at Sierra Nevada, the second largest craft brewery in the United States behind Samuel Adams. Free tours are available and stay after for delicious food and even more beer. For the shoppers, grab a gift for friends, family, pets or yourself at any of the multitude of boutiques through the downtown blocks.
Big Chico Creek flows through the middle of Chico State's campus.
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Bakersfield Life Magazine
January 2014
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICO STATE
Continued from page 131
PRIME FINDS
1
Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth
Fine handmade mouth-watering English toffee made by Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth. Available at Luigi’s, Sweet Surrender Bakery, Cafe Med, Flourishing Art and Sullivan Petroleum stores. 725-5200; auntmaessweettooth.com
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Ilitchi Boutique
For parties, celebrations and weddings. Come in and buy one of our gorgeous dresses, like this turquoise beauty that is covered in handstitched lace. 205 E. 18th St.; 396-1609.
3
Kuka’s Folk Art
Four crosses in one! Handcrafted from wood, tin and clay, this 14-by-11-inch cross is only one of the many available. All of our crosses are handmade by the finest artisans of Latin America. 1609 19th St.; 325-0000; kukasfolkart.com
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Creation Craze
Celebrate that special day with a special platter that is made just for you. Come see us and paint your forever keepsake. Never a sitting fee. 9680 Hageman Road Suite D 588-7107.
5
Uniquely Chic
Scroll wall art with crystal accents. Come in and visit us at Uniquely Chic for all your unique home decor needs. 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 701; 588-7997; uniquelychicflorist.com.
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Soul Purpose
Feed a child for one year of Essential Nutrients. Feed Bridal Bag has pockets for old, new, borrowed and blue. Perfect for the bride to take everything to the church in. Visit Soul Purpose for that special celebration. 8200 Stockdale Highway, Suite B-2; 843-6477.
7
Color Me Mine at The Marketplace
Achieve your goals for 2014. Paint your New Year’s resolution on a mug and use it every day to remind yourself of your progress. Get a free mug on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day with purchase of a $20 item. 664-7366; bakersfield.colormemine.com.
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Eva’s Boutique
New year, new you! Look younger with Nerium and retain that youthful, healthy glow for life. NeriumAD products have you covered. Ask about our new day cream. 5009 Stockdale Highway.; 472-4818; evapadilla.nerium.com.
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CHiPs for Kids Toy Drive Dec. 12 Held at The Bakersfield Californian Photos by Henry A. Barrios View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Nancy Chaffin, Shanan Mallard and Ginger Moorhouse
Robert Rodriguez and Robert Price
Christina Mendez and Kevin Perkins
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Estella Aguilar and Jackie Lopez
Elizabeth Villanueva, Ken Fodrey and Tamarra Harms
Crystal Bolte and Hannah Dimolfetto
Ross Scott and Catherine Garcia
2014 Chevy Cruze 2014 Chevy Silverado
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Silver Bells and Cultured Pearls Dec. 14 Held at Bakersfield Museum of Art Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Jennifer Floyd, Alison Perkins-Thomas and Kathy Bell
Shirley Hill, and Gwen and Janet Johnson
Verneda Pierce and Caren Floyd
Evie and Charles Flowers, and Maggie Johnson
Willie and Saskia Blackmon
Monique Hawkins and Louise Phipps
Hank and Olivia Washington
Fred Prince and John Shannon
T H E N E W STA N D AR D OF THE WORLD CTS ATS X TS SRX ESCA L A D E
2 014 C A D I L L A C S R X
8 J C M F 3 P B E # B L F S T Éš F M E $ " ÇŁ ÇŁ X B Z B V U P N P U J W F D P N 4 B M F T . P O 'S J 4 B U 4 V O ÇŁ 4 F S W J DF . P O 'S J 4 B U ÇŁ 1 B S UT . P O 'S J 4 B U bakersfieldlife.com 137
Bakersfield Uncorked Nov. 23 Held at Kern County Fairgrounds Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Lenore Hatzenbiler and Jewelle Scales
Michelle Reinhardt, Lindsay Devaurs and Kristina Straw
Angie Guijarro and Belinda, Ryan, Janae and Josh Witcher
Santiago and Pam Perez
Laura Tague and Amy Olson
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Maria and Mark Schweer
Marissa and William Turner
Cortney Pettit, Haley Patton, Christine Weaver, Katie Avery and Joey Russell January 2014
Junior Diabetes Research Foundation Walk to Cure Diabetes Nov. 16 Held at Yokuts Park Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Patty Langston and Lou Ann Roux
Melody Carr, Anamie Mahanke and Renae Tipton
Lori Jones, Tracy Nichols, Patty Sharp and Lisa Caviglia
Allison Perkins Thomas, Kevin Charrette and Victoria Nebre
Anna Henson, Shane McDanell and Allison Henson
Lance, Christy, Kody, Jay and Cole Mackey
Steve Kennelley, Madison Torres, Grace Kennelley, Britni Burton, Haylee Allen, Courtney Vanderzwan, Addie Schaefer, Taylor Johnson and Olyvia Golleher
Jessica, John, Tanner and Hayden Ryan
Ernie, Nico and Kristie Geronimo
Rogelio Lozano, Anna Martinez, Martha Silva, Alicia, Frank and Aly Salcedo bakersfieldlife.com
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Tom Xavier’s Enchanted Forest Dec. 7 Held at Stockdale Country Club Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Jennifer Barnett, Wesley Barrientos, Dawn Dobie and Laurie Paulson
Sandra Thomsen and Bill Theeringer
Zulay Usher, Mike Frantzeskakis and Charlene Oliver-Steel
Denise Kobdish and Glenda Woods
Craig and Cindy Ingalls
John Hefner, Ralph Bailey and Wesley Barrientos
Ira and Carole Cohen, and Leslie and Larry Puryear 140
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Jake and Johanna Sherley
Jackie and Roy Ambrose
Brent Uranga, Tom Xavier and Casey Babcock
Mark Your Calendars! Vote January 6 - January 27 Be sure to vote for your favorite places, people and businesses.
BestofKern.com Best of Kern County will publish in the April 26th edition of Bakersfield Life Magazine
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Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Membership Appreciation Reception Dec. 11 Held at The Nile Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Robert and Sheri Ortiz
Ann Cervantes, Gabriela Castaneda and Rosario Ortiz
Cindy Phillips, Mickey Chavez, Wendy Villanueva, Mary Lopez and Ralph Martinez
Gustavo Diazdeleon and Pritika Ram
Norma Rojas-Mora, Jaime Mora and Blodgie Rodriguez
Carol Hooley, Dan Watson, Mary Tolliver and Nick Hill
Serving Friday after 4:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday after 11:00 am 7/20/13 6:00-9:00pm Steve Woods
5025 Wible Rd • (661) 833-9998 www.bakersfieldrvresort.com 142
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Debi Alvarez, David Alanis, Fran Trevino, Denise Gomez and Joe Serrano
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Coming 2014
Bakersfield’s Complete Medical Campus All conveniently located on Chester Avenue
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Bakersfield Christmas Town and Lamplight Tours Dec. 7 Held at Kern County Museum Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Bonnie Barnett, Anjelica Toledo and Bill St. Claire
Annabelle, Eve, Ethan and Collin Childress
Kathy Funston, Evelyn Glines, Ann Lovett and Becky Reagle
Teny, Maya and Maxim Moradian
Pratyusha Gogulapati and Madison Maner
PRESENTS‌‌.
Reserve your seats today!
Ray Wooldridge and Kenzie and Sherry Cloud
Melissa, Brent, Zack and Andrew Darrington
Lydia and David Rodriguez
Don Massoni and Cheryl Brians
January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 30 & 31 February 1, 6, 7 & 8
Call 325-6100 or visit www.bmtstars.com 144
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The Nutcracker Ballet Dec. 13 Held at Rabobank Theater Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Serena, Makenna and Makayla Likens
Stephanie, Joseph, Alycia Padilla and Rob Vovilla
Jim and Donna Bell, and Bryan Burrow
Emilie and Nik Crown
Cathleen Terry and Mellie Bradshaw
Morgan, Layla and Rose Malamma
Julie and Anne Bowles
Liz Mebane, Susan Maitia and Emma Mebane
Mike, Heather and Ronni Ponek bakersfieldlife.com
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LAST WORD By Dana Martin
DREAMING OF ‘THE BIGS’
Parents play vital role in son’s goal of ‘rubbing elbows with Magic Johnson’
ear’s New Y ns tio Resolu
RIDE YOUR
Bakersfield Life Magazine
parents do. Yes, it’s important to nurture your son’s proclivity for his sport, but it’s equally important to teach him good citizenship, grace, and that he — not his coach, not the media — is ultimately responsible for how his story ends. He doesn’t have to be the most popular player in town, just talented enough to attract the scouts. Jarret never received an MVP award during his years of travel baseball, and in high school was never awarded the All Area Player of the Year. Those awards were so important to us at the time, but now seem inconsequential because none of them mattered to the rest of Jarret’s story. Jarret, now 24, was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles out of high school and was eventually traded to his favorite team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, who had been following his progress since high school. This past November, we learned that the Dodgers decided to purchase Jarret’s minor league contract and place him on their 40-man roster. The promotion puts Jarret one small step away from throwing a pitch off the mound at Dodger Stadium and rubbing elbows with one of the team’s owners: Magic Johnson. I guess I wasn’t too far off after all. Dana Martin is an award-winning freelance writer, author and editor, and frequent contributor to Bakersfield Life Magazine. For more on her, go to danamartinwriting.com.
BIKE
eight e Lose W ime Outsid T d FULLFILL ALL YOUR Spen ss Le RESOLUTIONS Drive oney THIS YEAR! Save M ut O ment n o ir Work v he En Save t my Friends s Impres
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Jarret Martin pitches for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes against his hometown Bakersfield Blaze.
January 2014
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
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anuary is a time to celebrate ... baseball. I know — Christmas lights are still twinkling, resolutions are being professed, but preparations are already underway for Opening Day’s first pitch. Ask Bakersfield’s own “little leaguers” of Northwest and Southwest Baseball if January is too soon to talk about the sport — tryouts for the spring season are just weeks away. And all for what? For many little boys, it’s for the dream of playing professionally. I know. I had one of those little boys. From the time Jarret could sit up, he tirelessly tossed a tiny, Nerf-style basketball through a desktop brass hoop you might see in an executive’s office. I sat nearby and marveled that he wanted to throw it so many times, completely missing what I quickly learned was the more extraordinary discovery. “He’s left-handed,” said his father in a way that suggested he could already see our son in a Lakers uniform rubbing elbows with Magic Johnson. “I’m going to make him a pitcher.” A pitcher? OK, forget the Lakers — we were Dodgers fans anyway, and Magic Johnson was about to retire from basketball. Left-handed pitchers are rare and coveted. Making it to “the bigs” was still a longshot, though. According to just about every statistic I could find to corroborate what I learned in the years following the Nerf ball incident, only about .5 percent of high school baseball players are drafted. Even fewer make it to the Big Leagues. And the ones who do make it are not the ones you expect. I’m talking to the parents of the kids who aren’t in the limelight, who don’t receive the MVP awards, who don’t get the press coverage. It doesn’t matter. Little league stats, draft picks, coaches’ favorites, politics — they mean nothing to the 30 Major League scouts descending on your home like CIA agents investigating a government spy. They care more about your son — the athlete and the person. Does he make poor decisions? Party like a rock star? Have anger issues, speed, bully or skip his workouts? Can he pass a urine test? They simply don’t get caught up in what we
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