Bakersfield Life Magazine August 2015 by The Bakersfield Californian Specialty Publications

August 2015

bakersfieldlife.com

S PEC IA L

KernLife I SS UE

No place like home Spotlight on 10 county towns

Trip Planner Explore Little Petroglyph Canyon in China Lake

Good eats Discover hidden gems $3.95

Area photographers capture Kern’s beauty

Divas and Dudes Divas, Dudes dine at La Forêt, Hungry Hunter

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Tools of the Trade Small-scale Shafter farm keeps up with agricultural changes. Page 84

Capture Kern County Area photographers capture the beauty of Kern County. Page 90

Kern County Adventures Take a drive to cities nearby on your next family trip and explore the places that make Kern County unique.

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Page 102

Arvin wildflowers 6

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

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Word on the Street The Big Picture Money Matters Named After Short Takes In Season Finding Fame My Pet By the Numbers What Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Reading 12 Random Things Happenings

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August 2015

34 Dining Divas 38 Food Dudes 42 Lunchtime Picks

Lifestyles 50 66 68 70 72 74

On the Road Health and Wellness In My Closet Fit and Fresh Pastimes Home and Garden

Family Verdict Personality Hometown Hero Why I Live Here All-Star Athlete Talk of the Town

72 152 Go & Do 76 Entertainment 78 Trip Planner

People & Community 126 Business Profiles 134 Bakersfield Matters

146 150 152 154 156 158 160 162 170

Our Town For a Cause Inside Story History Power Couple Real People Prime Finds SNAP! Last Word

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S TA F F S H A R E S Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine August 2015 / Vol. 9 / Issue 11

IF YOU HAD A CHOICE TO MOVE SOMEWHERE ELSE IN KERN COUNTY, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Bakersfield Life™ Magazine is published by TBC Media The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month and available with The Californian through its digital subscription. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse Associate Publisher Virginia Cowenhoven President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Chief Operating Officer Logan Molen Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells

Rankin Ranch in Walker Basin

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin

“I would relocate to Delano. I grew up there and I actually miss the small-town feel. Knowing that you will never be stuck in traffic is pretty rewarding for a small town. Plus, my extremely affordable hairdresser lives in Delano!” — Laura Liera, specialty publications coordinator “Tehachapi. It’s beautiful, quiet and the weather is amazing. Every trip up there is a breath of fresh air. Literally.” — Mark Nessia, assistant managing editor “I would move to Tehachapi for the cleaner air, cooler temperatures and scenery.” — Ellen Ewing, contributing writer “Taft ... it’s that much closer to the Central Coast!” — John Wells, senior vice president “Walker Basin. This little valley of a Kern gem is beautiful, peaceful, pastoral and evokes images of the bygone days of mining and ranching.” — Lisa Kimble, contributing writer “I would move to Frazier Park or Pine Mountain Club and explore those trails and admire its beautiful weather. Plus, it’s a closer drive to SoCal.” — Olivia Garcia, editor 10

Bakersfield Life Magazine

Advertising Sales Manager Lisa Whitten Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Market Research Lisa Beason, Jose Granados Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Mark Nessia Specialty Publications Coordinator Laura Liera Art Director Glenn Hammett Graphic Designer Holly Bikakis Editorial Interns Jennifer Olague, Oscar Miranda, Tyler Goucher Photography Felix Adamo, Debi Alvrez, Sally Baker, Henry A. Barrios, Susan Burt, Jovette Castilllo, Casey Christie, Bruce Deeter, Christina Felix, Leann Harris, John Harte, Lois Henry, Greg Iger, Jenn Ireland, Gail Klett, Tanya X. Leonzo, Michael Lopez, Lynn McDougal, Mark Nessia, Greg Nichols, Miguel Angel Perez, Richard Peterson, Sylvia Picazo, Steve Rengers, Carla Rivas, Reed Saxon, Navdeep Singh, William Steck, Jan St Pierre, Peter Wollesen, Wayne Wong Contributing writers Sally Baker, Ellen Ewing, Diana Greenlee, Lois Henry, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Maria Machuca, Shelby Parker, Julie Plata, Gabriel Ramirez, Katy Raytis, Paul Rivas, Cheryl Scott, Anna C. Smith, Tyler Stevens, Chris Thornburgh, Miranda Whitworth

On the cover Two of the more than 180 cyclists from California and Nevada who participated in the second annual Rock Cobbler bike race speed down Rancheria Road northeast of Bakersfield. Photo by Peter Wollesen

August 2015

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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E

Kids’ Artwork

C O N T R I B U TO R S Jennifer Olague is a summer intern with Bakersfield Life Magazine. She will be studying journalism at San Francisco State University in the fall. Olague enjoys meeting new people and many forms of writing, along with music. She aspires to be a music journalist. Some of her favorite magazines that influence her writing are: Under the Radar, Mojo, NME and Nylon. Street parking – or parking in general – is her kryptonite. Raised in the small city of Dinuba in the Fresno County area, Oscar Miranda came to Bakersfield five years after his journey to the state of Washington, where he met his high school sweetheart, Alyssia. Two of his favorite weekend activities are spending time with his youngest sibling Brian and making spontaneous trips to random California cities. Miranda enjoys meeting new people as well as writing fictional stories. The next step in his career is attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo by January where he plans to achieve a bachelor’s in communications and computer engineering. Tyler Goucher, a Bakersfield College student, has been studying journalism for three years now. Originally from Antelope Valley, he moved to Bakersfield to continue his education and achieve success in a field that mirrors his thirst for knowledge and truth. Upon finishing his degree, he plans on moving closer to Los Angeles and working for a publication that blends his interests in journalism and technology. Outside of school and work, he is very passionate about music and film and spends much of his time shooting video and producing music for himself and local artists. His influences include Elon Musk, Michio Kaku and Steve Jobs.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

REDISCOVERING KERN COUNTY

elcome to the Kern Life edition. In this annual edition, the magazine highlights different themes and parts that capture the essence of Kern County. As someone who has grown up here and has had the opportunity to visit various locations of Kern County through my years covering issues as a reporter or visiting friends or events as part of a family or friend trip, I have a sincere appreciation of our vast county that significantly relies on agriculture and oil. Speaking of farming, Bakersfield Life staffer Laura Liera catches up Eli Espericueta, who talks about keeping up to date and bracing for agricultural challenges in running the family business, Espericueta Farms Inc., in Shafter started by his father, Leroy. Read about his family’s story inside. Kern County freelance writer Julie Plata takes us on the journey of Kern County’s past by visiting Randsburg during its gold rush heyday. Plata explores how Kern County’s most profitable gold rush began in 1895 in the Rand Mountains of the Mojave Desert. Plata points out how Randsburg was home to the most productive gold mines. Cheryl Scott writes about how she acquired a whole new perspective on Kern County’s natural beauty as a teenager growing up locally. Today, Whiskey Flats Trail in Kernville and Wind Wolves Preserve in the Bakersfield area are among her favorite spots. Writes Lois Henry, “Little Petroglyph Canyon lies in the volcanic badlands between the Coso mountains and the Sierra Nevada and holds one of the bestpreserved displays of Native American rock art in the country.” Aside from these contributions, the magazine profiles a number of communities and people to give you

an idea of what makes their character so special. For community spotlights, Delano, Wasco, and Frazier Park are among those highlighted. And for the diversity of people, writer Diana Greenlee introduces our readers to Donna Anderson, who works as a quality laboratory superintendent for U.S. Borax in Boron. U.S. Borax is part of the Rio Tinto Corporation, which is the second-largest mining company in the world. On another front, food is always a great way to get a taste of a community. Laura Liera headed over to Lamont to catch up with Luis Aguilar of the famous El Pueblo Restaurant. I have known Luis for many years and he sure knows how to dish out great food and conversation. And writer Anna Smith takes us on a tour of some restaurants to explore, both in town and within driving distance. They include Crest Bar and Grill and Woolworth’s Diner in Bakersfield, Petra Mediterranean Restaurant in Tehachapi and Cheryl’s Diner in Kernville. We hope you enjoy learning about the various facets of our county in this issue.

PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO

From the day those chubby little fingers can get a hold of crayons, most moms begin a collection of their kids’ artwork. Whether it's the finger-painted heart he/she gave you for Valentine’s Day or that macaroni necklace that now has changed colors more than once, it’s art that can't seem to be tossed. We want to see what art you still cherish! Just share a photo of your little Picasso’s art and tell us what the occasion was! Send photos and comments to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com.

Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 • ogarcia@bakersfield.com

Up Front

WORD ON THE STREET

Compiled by Jennifer Olague

Photos by Mark Nessia

WHERE DO YOU LIKE TO GO IN KERN COUNTY? Steve Illingworth: Kern River because of kayaking and relaxation.

Charlotte White: I’m an artist so The Fox. It’s iconic. I’ve painted it 24 times.

Kahley Milburn: Dagny's because they have good coffee and you meet new people. It’s just a chill environment.

Caleb Hogeland: The bluffs because I like to run up there.

Matthew Roberts: The Kern Canyon. I’m an outdoorsy guy; I like to bike and fish up there.

Pennie Ward: Valentien Restaurant. It was the first time I had really good food in Bakersfield. They have good service. It’s just a fabulous place.

Nick Whitton: The Kern Canyon. It’s beautiful and quiet.

Grace Milburn: Woolworth's because it’s a unique place to find gifts.

Rachel Jerdin: Downtown Bakersfield because of First Friday and the development of the area.

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Up Front

THE BIG PICTURE

Kern County’s communities Delano

Source: census.gov 2010

Population: 55,659 Number of Schools: 12 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Kern County Fire Department

McFarland

Lost Hills Population: 2,739 Number of Schools: 1 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Lost Hills Fire Department

Population: 13,522 Number of Schools: 6 McFarland Police Department Kern County Fire Department Station 33

TWISSLEMAN RD

155

Delano

Lost Hills

43 46

Wasco

Population: 27,152 Number of Schools: 6 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Kern Station Fire Station 31

WO O

McFarland

Shafter Population: 19,582 Number of Schools: 7 Shafter Police Department Kern County Fire Station 32

LERDO HWY

Shafter

5 33 STOCKDALE HWY

McKittrick Population: 270 Number of Schools: 1 Kern County Sheriff’s Department McKittrick Fire Station

Bakersfield McKittrick

Arvin 119 Taft

Taft Population: 16,897 Number of Schools: 7 Kern County Sheriff’s Department City of Taft Fire Department

Maricopa Population: 4,176 Number of Schools: 9 Maricopa Police Department Kern County Fire Department

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

Population: 20,938 Number of Schools: 4 Arvin Police Department Kern County Fire Station 54

Maricopa

166

Frazier Park Population: 5,077 Number of Schools: 3 Frazier Park Kern County Sheriff Kern County Fire Station 58

Fra Pa

Glennville

Wofford Heights

Population: 282 Number of Schools: 0 - Closest schools are in Lake Isabella and Kernville Glennville Substation of the Kern County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Kern County Fire Department Station 36

Population: 2,536 Number of Schools: 0 - Closest schools are in Lake Isabella and Kernville Lake Isabella Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Kern County Fire Department Station 72

Woody Glennville

D YR

Kernville Population: 1,490 Number of Schools: 1 Lake Isabella Sheriff's Office Kernville Fire Department

Kernville Wofford Heights Isabella Lake

395 China Lake

Weldon Ridgecrest

178

Lake Isabella

178 RD B O D FISH

rn Ke

r Riv e

Ridgecrest

Population: 6,056 Number of Schools: 4 Lake Isabella Sheriff's Office Kern Canyon Fire Department Station 72

Population: 32,560 Number of Schools: 8 Ridgecrest Police Department Kern County Fire Department Station 77

TE-

Bakersfield

Lake Isabella

CA LIE N

Population: 347,483 Number of Schools: 172 Bakersfield Police Department Bakersfield Fire Department

Caliente

California City Population: 14,038 Number of Schools: 4 California City Police Department California City Fire Department

Mojave 223

395

Arvin Tehachapi

Population: 5,467 Number of Schools: 3 Kern County Sheriff's Department Kern County Fire Department Station 14

California City Mojave

Tehachapi

Population: 34,630 Number of Schools: 6 Tehachapi Police Department Tehachapi City Fire Department

14 Rosamond

azier ark Lebec

Lebec Population: 1,699 Number of Schools: 3 Kern County Sheriff's Department Kern County Fire Department Station 56

Rosamond Population: 18,910 Number of Schools: 5 Kern County Sheriff's Department Kern County Fire Department Station 15

Boron

58 Edwards Air Force Base

Boron Population: 2,299 Number of Schools: 3 Kern County Sheriff's Department Kern County Fire Department Station 17

bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

M O N E Y M AT T E R S

TAX BENEFITS OF OWNING RENTAL PROPERTY

Advertising Association dues Cleaning and maintenance Insurance premiums Legal and accounting fees Management fees Mortgage interest Pest control and lawn care Property taxes Supplies Tenant credit checks Utilities

Repairs vs. Improvements An area that requires rental owners to tread carefully is repairs versus improvements. Repairs maintain your property in good condition and are fully deductible when paid. Common examples of repairs include repainting, fixing a garbage disposal and patching minor roof shingles. Alternatively, improvements add value to your property and are not immediately deductible. Improvement costs are recovered by depreciating the cost over the property’s life expectancy. Improvements typically include replacing a roof, adding a fence or installing an air conditioning unit. Repair rules are complex so you’ll want to do your homework or seek the advice of a tax professional.

Travel Expenses Money you spend on travel to collect rent or maintain your rental property is certainly deductible. If you use your own car, you can claim actual expenses or the standard

Depreciation Deduction Depreciation is the least understood deduction but it’s the gift that keeps on giving. One of the best tax tools for landlords, depreciation basically allows you to write off your

Common Expenses Many expenses are deductible from rental income. In general, you can claim deductions for the year in which you pay these common rental property expenses: • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

rental income and other passive income. When you sell the property, any unused losses are fully released and may be deducted against all income. Good news – there are a few exceptions to the strict passive loss limitations. If you actively participate in your rental, own at least 10 percent of the property and your income is $100,000 or less, you can deduct up to $25,000 in rental losses. The deduction phases out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income between $100,000 and $150,000. Separate rules apply if filing married separate. For those who qualify as a real estate professional, your losses are unlimited. Bottom Line All things considered, tax rules for rental real estate are pretty favorable. There are quite a few deductions available to investors and it pays to know which ones you qualify for the write-off.

Losses and Limitations In spite of all the rental deductions that the IRS allows, there are loss limitations. Rental losses are considered “passive losses” and any losses exceeding rent received cannot offset your nonpassive income, such as salary and interest income. Unused passive losses are carried forward Chris each year and are Thornburgh available to offset

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biggest expense – the purchase price for your rental property (not including land). Real estate is depreciated over 27.5 years for residential rentals and 39 years for commercial rentals. Depreciation can amount to thousands of dollars in deductible losses. To help speed up depreciation, some landlords might consider a strategy known as cost segregation. Components of a property and its improvements are depreciated separately, often with shorter timelines. Furniture and appliances, for instance, are depreciated over five years. Depreciation offers generous tax breaks with many rules. IRS Publication 946, “How To Depreciate Property,” is a helpful resource at irs.gov.

large benefit of owning rental real estate is the abundant tax breaks. More deductions and tax strategies are available for this property than for just about any other investment. Not all owners, however, take full advantage of the opportunities.

mileage rate of 57.5 cents per mile, plus tolls and parking. Long-distance travel to visit your property or to conduct rental business is deductible, such as airfare, car rentals, hotels and 50 percent of meals during extended trips.

By Chris Thornburgh

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Up Front

NAMED AFTER

FRAZIER PARK Gold is in its founding

razier Park, nestled in Cuddy Canyon in the San Emigdio Mountains of the Tejon Pass, is an easy 48-minute drive south from Bakersfield. At an elevation of 4,639 feet, the community lies within the Los Padres National Forest. It was established in 1925 by Harry McBain, who named it Frazier Park the following year after Frazier Mountain in neighboring Ventura County. The mountain was named after Warren Frazier, a well-known market hunter who, along with his brothers, operated the Frazier gold mine in the area in the 1870s. Lumber was reportedly produced in the Frazier Park area from trees cut down on Frazier Mountain. The lumber was used at a new Army post at nearby Fort Tejon. A Kitanemuk Indian referred to the site as Campo del Soldado, or Soldier’s Camp, where soldiers stayed while cutting timber from what they called Pinery Mountain, now Frazier Mountain. The Frazier family settled in the region in 1852. Brothers Warren, William and Edgar came to California while working on the railroad. They settled in Bakersfield but often came up to the mountain as “market hunters,” providing meat to a market down in the valley. One day in 1870, while tracking down a deer they had shot, they discovered some gold nuggets. They returned to Bakersfield, gathered more supplies for an extended camping trip

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

PHOTO BY REED SAXON

By Lisa Kimble

Exit to Frazier Park

and returned to the mountain to stake their claim. The Frazier men developed the Frazier mine, which produced a million dollars’ worth of gold ore between 1871 and 1879. Warren Frazier spent the most time developing the mine. He continued to cover expenses by hunting. One of his first partners, Bob Maddux, wrote: “He took me not far from his camp to the croppings of a quartz vein and I broke some off and could see gold in it. He asked if I had experience in mining and if I had this, what would I do? I suggested he build an arrasta (ore crusher), which he knew nothing about, so I helped him build it. We could, with the help of one of the mules, grind about 300 pounds of rock a day, which ran about $100 [of gold] to the ton.” Warren Frazier had also developed a bad habit of spending the gold on liquor. Once, on a booze binge, Frazier was approached by some investors from San Francisco and he lost the mine. The new company installed a mill to significantly increase production. The mine remained operational as late as the 1980s before being blasted shut. The area, west of Lebec, is a popular area for hikers and campers. It also served as a film location for the popular television show “The Waltons.”

Warren Frazier

Entrance to Fraz ier mine

Walk for Valley Fever hopes to spread awareness, vaccine developments and research on possible cures for valley fever.

WALK HOPES TO SPREAD VALLEY FEVER AWARENESS

n memory of Dr. Hans Einstein, a valley fever research pioneer, the 4th Annual Valley Fever Awareness Walk will be taking place at the Kern County Museum on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. The event will be put on by the Valley

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

S H O R T TA K E S

Fever Americas Foundation with hopes of spreading awareness and information regarding early symptoms, vaccine developments and research on possible cures for valley fever. Individual ticket prices will start at $20 with family packages starting at $65. Children 11 and under are free. The ticket price includes admission and a free shirt. Participants can walk as much or as little as they like. For more information, you can contact Sandra Larson at slarson@valleyfever.com or call 832-1456. – Bakersfield Life

MCFARLAND STATE CHAMPIONS PARTICIPATE IN ALUMNI RACE

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et ready to meet the past McFarland state champions at this year’s McFarland Alumni Race on Aug. 21. Some of the notable alumni who will be making appearances include: Johnny Sameniego, Victor Puentes, Thomas Valles and David Diaz. Organized by the McFarland Track Club, the 2-mile alumni race will begin at 6:30 p.m. at McFarland Parks and Recreation, located at 100 S. 2nd St. and will be

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SHOPPING | DINING | ENTERTAINMENT Experience the Outlets at Tejon, the area’s newest shopping destination. Find the most wanted brands of the school year at must-have savings up to 65%! Set against the beautiful mountains of Tejon Ranch, the Outlets at Tejon is your must-shop stop, conveniently located just south of Bakersfield!

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Ea sy a c c e ss off I - 5 , j u st so u th o f B a k er s f i e l d .

OSHKOSH B’GOSH

S H O R T TA K E S

TEHACHAPI MOUNTAIN FEST EXPECTED TO BE BIGGER THAN EVER

ehachapi’s 52nd Annual Mountain Festival will be taking place on Aug. 1516 at Philip Marx Central Park in downtown Tehachapi. Put on by local sponsors, the festival has been known to draw in an attendance of 30,000 to 40,000 people. This year is expected to be even bigger with promises of attractions including live entertainment, a car show, a pet parade and many others. There will also be booths set up for a variety of merchandise and services, both commercial and independent. Delicious food and beverages will be available throughout the festival from many local vendors as well. For more information, contact the Greater Tehachapi Chamber of Commerce at 822-4180 or go to tehachapimountainfestival.com. – Bakersfield Life

happening this month at

BACK-TO-SCHOOL STYLE SPREE August 15 E n t e r f ro m 7 / 2 0 – 8 / 1 0 f o r the chance to be chosen as one of 12 contestants to re c e i v e a $ 1 0 0 g i f t c a rd t o compete in our Back-to-School S t y l e S p re e e v e n t ! G r a n d prize is a $500 Outlets at Te j o n g i f t c a rd ! V i s i t u s o n Facebook to enter and get full details!

ALL ABOUT KIDS

he Baby and Child Expo, brought to you by the Pediatric Heart Center, will take place on Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Rabobank Arena Theater and Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Doors open at 11 a.m. and will continue until 4 p.m. The event will give babies, toddlers and children a fun-filled experience that focuses on pediatric health and entertainment. There will also be family entertainment, events, information and education, including shopping and prizes. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, visit babyandchildexpo.com.

E a s y a c c e s s o ff I - 5 , just south of Bakersfield.

For more details, visit TejonOutlets.com.

– Bakersfield Life bakersfieldlife.com

S H O R T TA K E S

LIVING TO SERVE EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT

or almost 13 years now, volunteers from all over Kern County have been gathering together to raise money and provide a Tuesday night ministry for the homeless at the Mission at Kern County. Not only do these selfless individuals spend time and pray with the unfortunate, they also serve food and provide outreach programs for them. Specifically a Christian organization, this nonprofit group has been operating for almost 30 years in various locations. Now at its permanent location, it provides services to more than 200 people every Tuesday night and are strictly run and funded by volunteers.

Henry Barrios, a photographer for The Bakersfield Californian, along with his wife, Ann, have been heavily involved in the ministry for nearly 20 years. “If you’re looking to get involved, we encourage people to come to one of the ministries to see if it is a fit for them,” said Barrios. The ministry’s biggest nights are usually the last Tuesday of the month due to the imbursement schedule of benefit checks. Although no special events are being planned in the near future, the ministry will continue to run every Tuesday night and hopes to inspire more like-minded individuals to volunteer for the cause. If you don’t have time to volunteer, there are other ways you may be able to help support the Mission at Kern County. Links to become a supporting partner and to donate to the cause can be found on at thebrm.org/mission.html.

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Up Front

– Bakersfield Life

THE FINE ART OF PENCIL DRAWINGS SOLO ART EXHIBIT

5K RUN RAISES FUNDS FOR THE CAT PEOPLE

local running group is hosting the first Feline 5K Run/Walk on Aug. 1 at the California Living Museum, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. The 5K, which will benefit The Cat People, will start at 7 a.m. and the kids fun run will start 7:45 a.m. Refreshments and snacks will be provided. The 5K registration fee is $25 and $30 the day of the run. The fun run is free for kids 10 and under and no registration is needed. The first 100 participants are guaranteed a shirt, along with medals and other prizes for the top three male and female runners of the 5K. Register online at active.com or at TeamIBProFun.com. For more information, contact Lupe Evans of Team IBProFun, which is organizing the event, at 805-0600.

avid J. Vanderpool will be hosting The Fine Art of Pencil Drawings exhibit Aug. 6 through Sept. 25 at the Arts Council of Kern Access Center, 1330 Truxtun Ave., Suite 105. Vanderpool has been pencil drawing since he was a kid and has shown and sold his art in LA, the Bay Area and in New York. This will be Vanderpool’s first solo art exhibit. Opening reception will be held on Thursday, Aug. 13, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wine and finger foods will be available along with a meet and greet with the artist himself. The exhibit is open to the general public and some drawings will be for sale. All pencil drawings are family friendly. For more information, contact David J. Vanderpool at paper2pencil@sbcglobal.net.

– Bakersfield Life

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

WINE, CRAFT BEER AND FOOD FESTIVAL TO BENEFIT TEHACHAPI NONPROFITS

heers to Charity is back at it again with its 2015 Tehachapi Wine, Craft Beer & Food Festival. The event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Veritas Wine & Tapas Plaza in Tehachapi, 695 Tucker Road. The charitable fundraising event will feature everything from live music to signature tapas, California wines and home brew beers. Tickets are on sale now for $55 but will be raised to $75 at the door on the day of the event. Proceeds will benefit several Tehachapi nonprofits, including Tehachapi Valley Wrestling Club, Healing House and Stallion Springs CERT. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to cheerstocharity.net. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bakersfield Life

LATINATION STILL ACCEPTING ENTRIES FOR EXHIBIT

ntries are still being accepted for Latination, an art exhibit dedicated to celebrating and exploring Latino life. This juried exhibit will be accepting entries no later than Friday, Aug. 28. All artwork must be original and created within the past four years and a nonrefundable $20 entry fee will be required upon your submission. There will be several cash awards given out for various categories during the opening reception, so be sure to submit your very best work. For more information about the exhibit or to download an entry form, visit TheMetroGalleries.com. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bakersfield Life

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IN SEASON

Tree Foundation and IKEA planted drought-tolerant trees at Panorama Park that are now about a year old.

THE GIVING TREES Foundation beautifies Kern County, improves air quality one tree at a time By Maria Machuca

he mission of the Tree Foundation of Kern is to help make Kern County more beautiful and improve the valley’s air quality by planting more trees. Unfortunately, the ongoing drought is seriously threatening the foundation’s efforts. “It's very difficult at this time to plant a lot of trees unless we can guarantee that they will receive the water they need to establish themselves and thrive,” said the foundation’s Executive Director Melissa Iger. Last year, the foundation, in partnership 24

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

with IKEA, planted 63 drought-tolerant, native trees in Panorama Park. IKEA not only donated the trees, it brought 150 volunteers who came out to help plant western redbuds, valley oaks, white alders and several other native species. According to Arlene Finlayson, sustainability developer at IKEA Distribution Services Tejon, this year IKEA collaborated again with the foundation to plant more trees at Hart Park. “This time around, we not only planted more trees but really took an approach that would educate the volunteers about the drought,” Finlayson said. The decision to plant native trees was

PHOTO BY GREG IGER

Up Front

in part the result of the drought. Iger said they were still hoping that El Nino would bring needed rains and help alleviate California’s drought issues. When it didn’t happen, the best alternative was to plant trees that could endure tough conditions. Iger recommends, however, planting other non-native, drought-tolerant trees that would do well in this area and would create a more interesting urban forest. These types of projects not only beautify the parks but add future shade, homes for local habitat, erosion control and air pollution mitigation, she said. According to Iger, the foundation’s focus this fall will be on tree education efforts. The foundation is planning an Urban Forestry Summit on Oct. 10 at Bakersfield College. The public forum will provide information about trees, proper care and pruning, as well as how to keep trees healthy during the drought. For details, call 323-8733.

F I N D I N G FA M E

WHEN TWO STARS COLLIDE Pro hoopsters gain national attention for viral proposal By Diana Greenlee

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Alex “Superman” Johnson

t wasn’t the first time pro hoopsters Alex “Superman” Johnson and Brey Dorsett played a game of one-on-one. But last May, at Falstaff Community Centre in Toronto, Canada, Dorsett brought her best game and Johnson brought a ring. Johnson, a California State University, Bakersfield grad and former basketball player, had a plan in the works as he ran down the court and then stumbled against Dorsett’s faux foul. Feigning injury, he toppled to the ground but rose to one knee with a shocked Dorsett covering her face in disbelief as friends and family gathered around. She was so concerned about Johnson’s potential injury, Dorsett said she only heard him say a few words, but she got the idea. “I was so mad,” she said chuckling. “It was like, ‘Whatever, I’ll marry you. But don’t ever scare me like that again!’” The event, likened to a scene in the film “Love and Basketball,” spawned a viral video garnering more than 3 million views to date and media coverage from major outlets such as ESPN, Perez Hilton and People magazine. Dorsett said the attention has been dizzying, even for seasoned athletes whose love story started with a crossover dribble. The couple met six years ago at a pro-am game in North Carolina during a summer league. Johnson, 27, said there

was an instant connection. “She was watching me while I was playing,” he said. “I was not watching him,” said the feisty brunette. “I was watching the game and I noticed him because he didn’t look familiar; he had pretty eyes and a nice smile. I guess my stare lasted too long; it made him fall in love.” Hailing from Gary, Indiana, Dorsett, 25, is a pro baller in her own right. Formerly with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, she’s heading to France next year with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). She will finish her degree at Johnson Smith Charlotte University in December.

The Canadian Basketball League signed Johnson, and he’s practicing with the Toronto Raptors. He’s also putting his North Carolina State master’s degree in family life and youth development to work coaching at the youth center in Toronto. The couple has tentatively set a wedding date for next spring. Although the proposal is a tough act to follow, Johnson minored in theater at CSUB and admits he’s full of surprises. “I put my little degree to work,” he said. “See, I’m a pretty good actor.”

bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

MY PET

SANDRA MASEK AND THE CAT HOUSE By Tyler Goucher Photos courtesy of The Cat House

andra Masek has been directly involved with the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound’s Feline Conservation Center, otherwise known as the Cat House, in Rosamond for more than 20 years. Starting off as a volunteer in 1990, she moved up to general manager in 1994, putting her in the position to make some positive changes and additions to the compound. A home to more than 70 endangered felines, the compound is both a breeding zoo and research facility at its core. The nonprofit organization is run entirely on public donations, 94 percent of which goes directly toward breeding, research, educational outreach programs, upkeep and improvements. It is ranked in the top 1 percent of all U.S. nonprofit charitable organizations and has been featured on several publications and multimedia segments, including “Animal Exploration with Jarod Miller.” The Cat House is open to the public every day of the week except Wednesdays and select holidays and unlike zoos, there is very little space between you and the animals, allowing you to get within 5 feet of their habitats, making it a very unique and intimate experience. What makes The Cat House different than other breeding compounds? We are species unique. We have more felines than any other compound in North America. We do exchanges on breeding loans, which are based on compatible species from all over the world. We do this to maintain genetic diversity. What drew you to work in this field? My love of animals and cats. I started as a volunteer and just got hooked. I’ve been involved with a number of organizations but 26

Bakersfield Life Magazine

Sandra Masek, Yanna and Li Ming

Thumper

Zach

this was the only nonprofit I found where almost all of the money goes toward the animals. Why felines versus other exotic animals? It was originally a private facility that dealt primarily with cats. That’s why we are so successful because we only focus on one animal. Describe your favorite feline that you work with at the compound. It would be impossible to pick a favorite. With more than 12 species at the facility, they all have their own type of behaviors and personalities.

August 2015

How long does the breeding process take? Every species has a different gestation period and breeding behavior. There is no set time. What are the future plans? We are going to continue the expansion of the breeding program. Our focus is on three different areas: breeding, research, and alternative reproduction methods and education to exhibition. We want to teach the public about the animals and encourage people to protect the environment. We would also like to raise money for restroom facilities.

BY THE NUMBERS

POPULATION TRENDS OF KERN COUNTY

Source: census.gov 2010

CITY

2010

2013

2010 VS 2013

CHANGE %

ADULTS

Arvin

20,938

21,208

270

1.3%

13,061

Bakersfield City

347,483

352,918

5,435

1.6%

244,173

Greater Bakersfield

520,197

529,169

8,972

1.7%

365,528

California City

14,038

13,324

(714)

-5.1%

10,310

Delano

55,659

56,141

482

0.9%

39,417

Frazier Park

5,077

5,373

296

5.8%

4,100

Lake Isabella

6,056

5,100

(956)

-15.8%

4,407

Lamont

17,489

18,541

1,052

6.0%

11,843

McFarland

13,522

13,493

(29)

-0.2%

8,629

Mojave

5,467

5,411

(56)

-1.0%

3,915

Ridgecrest

32,560

32,376

(184)

-0.6%

23,864

Rosamond

18,910

19,371

461

2.4%

14,090

Shafter

19,582

19,613

0.2%

12,763

Taft

16,897

17,143

246

1.5%

12,116

Tehachapi

34,630

34,851

221

0.6%

26,993

Wasco

27,152

27,162

0.0%

19,313

Kern County

839,631

848,204

8,573

1.0%

593,814

bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

W H AT I ’ M R E A D I N G

DIANA VICKERS By Oscar Miranda

What I’m currently reading? I am currently reading “The DaVinci Code” by Dan Brown and “Conversation With God: Experience the Life-Changing Impact of Personal Prayer” by Lloyd John Ogilvie. Favorite authors: (Nonfiction writers) Wayne Dyer and Eckhart Tolle. Favorite book: “Ramses” by Christian Jacq. I love it because it is historical fiction. I have an interest in ancient Egypt and that is where the setting is. Books I’ve read more than once: “Blessed Is the Fruit” by Robert Antoni and “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

iana Vickers, a former stationary engineer for the Department of Corrections, now retired, has spent most of her time volunteering as a leader for the Big Chair Chess Club – an organization sponsored by local lawmakers Kevin McCarthy, Jean Fuller and Shannon Grove and Nicole Parra, former lawmaker who does consulting. In the club, students participate in chess tournaments locally and around the country, including Washington, D.C. Vickers’ favorite motto is, “think before you move,” because chess is a strategy board game, and she compares it to life. “Sometimes we don’t think before we act in life and that could cause us to make mistakes,” she said. Surrounded by kids, Vickers feels required to keep learning because kids see to her as a role model. Vickers enjoys reading both fiction and nonfiction books and averages about two books a week, sometimes three, year-round.

Other materials I like reading: I like to read Woman’s World and travel magazines as well as home and garden. Where I enjoy reading: On vacation is where I can read the most. Aside from that, it’s on my couch at home. The book that’s been inspirational: “The Power of Intention” by Wayne Dyer. It gives you a different perspective in life and the way you should be looking at things. It takes your ego out of the picture. Any other thoughts on reading? I encourage people to read, read, read. Fiction or nonfiction, the books are a gateway to a whole different world and have the power to take you out of your current situation. It is raw knowledge on a few hundred pages.

bakersfieldlife.com

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

1 2 R A N D O M T H I N G S YO U D I D N ’ T K N OW A B O U T . . .

IZAMAR OLAGUEZ Miss California 2015 first runnerup hopes to inspire youth Compiled by Bakersfield Life

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

zamar Olaguez likes to believe that the pageant lifestyle found her. At 23 years old, she was chosen as Miss California 2015 first runner-up and is still in disbelief. “It still hasn’t sunk in,” Olaguez said, a few days after the competition. The Bakersfield native had never bothered to watch a televised pageant until she performed a few mariachi songs onstage at a Miss California pageant a few years ago as part of the program’s entertainment. That performance onstage was when Olaguez knew she wanted to compete in a pageant. “I fell in love with the entire process and I was hooked,” she said. She won Miss Central California Regional in 2012 and went on to win Miss San Bernardino County, Miss Woodland Hills and Miss Yosemite Valley. During this year’s Miss California pageant, Olaguez found the inspiration to pursue a higher education and auditioned to her dream school, the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Arts Academy, or AMDA, in Los Angeles. She received an acceptance letter but because of financial difficulties, Olaguez had to temporarily pause her move to Los Angeles. She hopes to win a few more scholarships and pick up where she started. For now, she continues to travel around California, motivating students to pursue a higher education. “I want to be an inspiration to our youth and let them know that although pursuing an education is not easy, we can do it together,” she said.

1 2

3 4

I sang “A New Life” by the musical “Jekyll & Hyde” as my talent.

Don’t tell my trainer, but I did splurge on food during competition. A bite of a doughnut was not going to kill me. I worked out four times a week during competition.

When I didn’t win, I thought I was going to be sad but the love and support I received from the pageant volunteers made me feel great.

I was so nervous during my talent night. My voice coach was there and I knew I had to make her proud. I ended up winning the talent preliminary award. My iPod music ranges from Jessie J to Meghan Trainor. But I will say those heartfelt Bruno Mars songs really are my favorite.

I’m a fan of any sour candy, in particular the watermelon Sour Patch.

After the competition, I had a mini pizza party back home and I splurged on pepperoni pizza, my favorite.

My celebrity crush is Adam Levine. I still hope to marry him. My woman crush is Carrie Underwood. She is the epitome of class. She’s an artist you want little girls to look up to because she’s a mom and an amazing artist.

I can’t live without Instagram.

One of my hidden talents is teasing hair. I would tease a lot of the girls’ hair during competition.

#GetItTogetherIzamar is my favorite hashtag because we all make mistakes but we can all learn from them.

bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

HAPPENINGS

CAN’T-MISS EVENTS IN KERN COUNTY 2015

AUGUST Rachel Hollis book signing, author of “Sweet Girl,” Aug. 7, 5 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Free. Fiesta Days in Frazier Park, Aug. 7, 1 to 10 p.m.; Aug. 8, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Aug. 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 3801 Park Drive. Activities include pet show, Ed Perine Memorial Parade, family games, men’s and women’s division horseshoe contests, log sawing, mustache and beard competition, LEGO building contest, arm wrestling contest, tug-o-war, food, live entertainment. Free. frazierfiestadays.org. Barrel of Apples: School Employee Benefits Fair, Aug. 8, 11 a.m., learn about great programs for teachers, school employee loans, win prizes. Kern Schools Federal Credit Union, 11500 Bolthouse Dr. ksfcu.org/school. The Ultimate Bridal Event, Aug. 9 3:30 p.m., DoubleTree by Hilton, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $15 per person, $25 VIP before, ultimatebridalevent.com. 52nd Tehachapi Mountain PRCA Rodeo, Aug. 13, 7 p.m., and Aug. 14, 6 p.m., Tehachapi Event Center and Rodeo Grounds, 601 South Dennison Road and Highway 58. $15 adults, $12 seniors, military and children 5 to 12 years old. Purchase tickets prior to event and get $2 off tickets at the gate. 557-7336.

A Formal Affair Bridal Event, Aug. 23, noon to 4 p.m., Rabobank Theater and Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $7. eventbrite.com.

SEPTEMBER 7th annual Latination Art Exhibit opening, Sept. 4, Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. themetrogalleries.com. Meet Me in Paris Fashion Show, Sept. 12, 10 a.m., to benefit the Mission at Kern County. The Mission at Kern County, 816 E. 21st St. $25 before Aug. 4. eventbrite.com.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

Via Arte drinks and vendors, downtown Tehachapi. Festival is free. For race information, visit tehachapigranfondo.com.

Community Recycling Day, Sept. 12, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Kern Schools Federal Credit Union, 11500 Bolthouse Dr. ksfcu.org./recycling. Wasco Festival of Roses, Sept. 10-12, Barker Park, 1280 Poplar Ave. Activities include rose parade, children’s rose show, rose queen pageant, rose field tours, wine and roses reception, pancake breakfast and barbecue. ci.wasco.ca.us or 758-3081.

Benise, Sept. 22, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $35-$61 or $101 VIP at the box office.

Village Fest 2015, includes tasting glass, live entertainment, unlimited food samples and 15 beer samples. Sept 12. Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $73 prior to festival, $78 at the gate. 21 and over only. vallitix.com.

26th Annual Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, Sept. 24, 7 a.m., Rabobank Theater and Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $100 table of eight or $105 individual. bakersfieldwomen.org.

Tehachapi GranFondo, Sept. 18 with race, Sept. 19. Centennial Plaza, festival with live entertainment, food,

27th Annual Rubber Ducky Race, Aug. 23, bet on your own rubber duck crossing the finish line first, Riverside Park, Kernville. 760-379-3667. 32

Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com, or submit yours via email to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com or via our Facebook page: Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

Kern County Fair, Sept. 23 to Oct. 4, 1142 P St., Bakersfield. kerncountyfair.com.

OCTOBER 7th Annual Bakersfield Celtic Music Festival, Oct. 2, 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 3, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., food, drinks, vendors, music, raffle prizes. CSUB Amphitheater, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10 Friday night with $30 scotch tasting, $20 Saturday, $25 for Friday and Saturday; students, military and seniors get 10 percent off; 10 years old and under enter free. kernscot.org.

Wine, Women & Shoes, Oct. 3, 2 p.m., to benefit CASA of Kern County, food, wine, fashion show, auctions, at the home of Vikas and Sonia Ghai. $125-$175. kerncasa.org or 631-2272. Heroes for Hope, Oct. 3, 5 p.m., to benefit Memorial Hospital’s Hope House and the Kern County Builder’s Exchange. Food, silent and live auction, music. The Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $150. kcbex.com. Taft Oildorado, Oct. 9-18, grand parade, melodrama, queen pageant, entertainment, barbecues, dances, civic luncheon, Taft. taftoildoradodays.com. 17th Annual Via Arte, Oct. 10-11, Italian street painting festival. The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. viaartebakersfield.com. Tehachapi Apple Festival, Oct. 10-11, 10 a.m., pie eating contest, apple drop, carnival, vendors, food, music. Railroad Park in downtown Tehachapi. Free. 374-0395. The Tenors, Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $33-$67 at the box office. Dust Bowl Festival, Oct. 17, 8 a.m., Sunset School, Weedpatch. Free. dustbowlcamp.org.

California City Renaissance Festival, Oct. 17-18, California City Central Park, 10460 Heather Ave. calcityrenfair.org.

Kern Energy Festival, Nov. 7, 10 a.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $10. kernenergyfestival.com.

Sinbad, Oct. 22, 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $35.50-$55.50 at the box office.

Blue Man Group

MARCH Tehachapi Ugly Christmas Sweater Wine Walk, Nov. 28, 6 p.m. downtown Tehachapi. $25 before event, $30 day of. 822-6519.

Sinbad Whiskey Flat Fall Festival, Oct. 23-25, live music, pumpkin patch, food, haunted maze. Frandy Campground, Kernville. 760-376-2629. Harvest Holidays in Delano, Oct. 9-12, the fall festival starts off with a golf tournament, softball tournament and 10K run. The Grand Marshal and Queen Barbecue is held on Oct. 9 after the Kiddie Parade. The Grand Parade is on Oct. 10. Four-day carnival. Most events take place at Memorial Park, 100 Lexington St., Delano. delanochamberofcommerce.org.

NOVEMBER Altares de Familia, Nov. 1, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St., bmoa.org. Dwight Yoakam, Nov. 5, 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Prices to be determined. Bakersfield Extra Life 12-Hour Gaming Marathon, Nov. 7, to benefit the Lauren Small Children’s Medical Center. Create your own team with more than 70 gaming consoles, computers, board and card games, 9 a.m., CSUB Student Union, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $20, $10 for 7- to 12-year-olds. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian. extralife.org/team/bakersfield.

50th Annual Bakersfield Fiesta, March 18-20, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. bakersfieldfiesta.com.

DECEMBER

APRIL

Tehachapi Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting, Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m., downtown Tehachapi. Free.

Blue Man Group, April 6, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $35-$65 at the box office.

Taft Christmas Parade, Dec. 7, 6 p.m., 515 Center St. Free. Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $34-$74, VIP available at the box office.

2016

Scottish Games & Gathering, April 16, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. kernscot.org.

MAY Cinco de Mayo Fiesta in Delano, Kicks off at the beginning of the month with a four-day celebration.

JANUARY Annual Victim/Witness Auxiliary Fog Run, usually scheduled in early January at Lake Ming. Proceeds benefit crime victims of Kern County. bakersfieldtrackclub.com.

Lilac Festival at Pine Mountain Village, third weekend of May. Activities include lilac festival parade, acrobatic skydivers, food, music golf and horseshoe tournaments, children’s activities, and more. pmclilacfestival.com.

JUNE Annual Menudo Cook-Off, June 5, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Organized by the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. 633-5495. Annual Glennville Rodeo Roundup, weekend-long event, usually the first or second weekend in June. GMVA Rodeo Arena, 196 Pascoe Road, Glennville. glennvillerodeo.org. Wine in the Pines, June 11,noon, wine tasting, craft breweries, food, live music, wine, art, Pine Mountain Club, 16200 Mil Potrero Highway. 242-1996.

Annual Prayer Breakfast, Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Usually in late January. bakprayerbreakfast@gmail.com.

JULY

FEBRUARY Whiskey Flat Days, President’s Day weekend in Kernville. Parade, rodeo, Wild West entertainment, carnival, pet parade, gunfighter skits, kids activities and more. 760-376-2629. Central Valley Boat Sportsmen & RV Show, Feb. 26-28, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $10; kids 6 to 12, $5; free for kids 5 and under. calshows.com.

Carnival, food, games, live entertainment, parade. Most events take place at Memorial Park, 100 Lexington St., Delano. delanochamberofcommerce.org.

Whiskey Flat Days

2015 Philippine Weekend in Delano. Month-long activities that culminate toward the end of the month for a big three-day weekend celebration: pork adobo cook-off, Saturday and Sunday; grand parade (Saturday only); barrio fiesta; basketball tournament; cultural entertainment; live performances; dance and singing contest; and bingo. Most events take place at Cecil Park, 17th Ave., Delano. Free. 679-9698. bakersfieldlife.com

Eat & Drink

D I N I N G D I VA S

Filet mignon

LA FORĂ&#x160;T FINE DINING & LOUNGE Chic dining in Bakersfield

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

Compiled by Bakersfield Life

Photos by Greg Nichols

f you fancy a bit of Bakersfield fling with some fine dining food, look no further than the new La ForĂŞt Fine Dining & Lounge at Sundale Country Club. Jae Shin, the owner, changed the name of the old Tavern by the Green and gave the space a whole new look and a fresh start. Shin is known throughout the community for his work with the Korean American Association and the Sister City Association. He can be found roaming the dining room to greet customers throughout the evening. He listens to their comments and makes every effort to make sure they have a positive experience.

LaMeka Ross, Amber Chiang, owner Jae Shin, Dianne Hoover and Jessica Mathews at La Forêt.

APPETIZERS LaMeka Ross on the gateau de crabe: Every time I see crab cakes on the menu, I have to have them, and this time was no exception! Our server, Darin Kuchta, agreed when she said we absolutely had to try them. The crab cakes at La Forêt were bite-sized but very tasty. Each was lightly crusted with panko bread crumbs and served with a dollop of roasted habanero and mango aioli. Dianne Hoover on the caprese: What a way to start a meal! The combination of yellow tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella cheese sprinkled with fresh basil and lightly covered with aged balsamic vinegar just opens the taste buds right up for the rest of the meal. This was one of the best caprese salads I have ever tried. It was perfectly balanced and just the right size for one person, but okay to share – that is, if you want to give any of it up. Amber Chiang on the cocktail de crevettes: If our previous reviews are any indication, you know I’m a sucker for shrimp cocktail, and I really appreciate La Forêt’s take on what could be a rather pedestrian dish at a number of restaurants. Our shrimp cocktail came with five large shrimp that were nicely chilled, riding in a glass of cocktail sauce that was the perfect balance of sweet and heat from the horseradish. The surprise citrus flavor of the cocktail sauce made this a refreshing dish.

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STOCKDALE HWY

SU N D ASHE RD

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NEW STINE RD

6218 SUNDALE AVE

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La Forêt

La Forêt Fine Dining & Lounge 6218 Sundale Ave. 661-735-8686 www.laforetdining.com Open 2 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday

Kern City Golf Course 2,000 FT

Cheese, shrimp cocktail and crab cakes bakersfieldlife.com

The dining room

Continued from page 35

ENTREES Jessica Mathews on the loup de mer: I really enjoyed the pan-seared sea bass that I ordered. It was topped with a green pepper pesto, grape tomatoes and served with brown butter risotto. The sea bass had great flavor and was cooked perfectly, and the risotto was amazing! I love risotto and this was one of the best, with the best flavor that I have ever had. Amber on the rib-eye: What can I say?! I cannot turn down a good steak. And the rib-eye at La Forêt did not disappoint! Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, the steak was beautifully marbled and tender and delicately seasoned in a way that enhanced a simply perfect cut of steak. Plan to share or take some home, because this rib-eye is a huge 16-ounce portion without the bone. Paired with fresh vegetables and delicate mashed potatoes, I found the rib-eye to be a delightfully balanced dinner suitable for the carnivore in me. LaMeka on the poulet picatta: For our last few dining experiences, I have selected beef for my main course, but I decided this time I would have a chicken dish instead. Our server, Darin, highly recommended the chicken picatta. This was a nicely sized chicken breast seasoned with a white wine lemon butter caper sauce. The dish was served with mixed vegetables and a creamy risotto that melted in my mouth – some of the best I have ever had. Dianne on the coffee-encrusted filet mignon: I ordered one of the evening’s specials – a coffee-encrusted filet mignon. I ordered the steak medium-well, and it was outstanding. While I could barely taste the coffee crust, the outside of the

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

Pan-seared sea bass filet mignon was covered with rosemary butter that melted on top and made for a beautiful presentation before getting into the tender meat. The filet was easily cut with my butter knife and was full of flavor and hard to share with my fellow Dining Divas. It was just that good. Served over brown butter risotto, I would order this again.

DESSERTS Jessica on the Jack Daniel’s Honey creme brulee: So many restaurants have a creme brulee that it can be hard to distinguish one dessert from the other. Not so at La Forêt which took Jack Daniel’s Honey and incorporated it to make a creamy, light and delicious dessert. There is no alcohol taste, just the sweet remnants of honey to please the palate and an accompaniment of fresh berries. I would highly recommend this dessert!

LaMeka on the red velvet cheesecake: I have been raving about this dessert ever since I had it! When our server described the red velvet cheesecake, I knew it was a must-have for me. Instead of your traditional graham cracker crust, La Forêt used a layer of red velvet graham crackers, then topped the crust with a delicious vanilla cheesecake. It was a big slice, more than enough for one person, and all the Divas were able to share.

Red velvet cheesecake

Without a doubt, La Forêt is a place every local should experience. Walk through the doors on the second floor and it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a high-quality restaurant, with big windows for viewing the surrounding golf course. With a plethora of dishes to choose from, La Forêt brings a unique and romantic ambiance to Bakersfield dining.

BAKERSFIELD’S ORIGINAL BRIGHTON STORE www.shopchristines.com

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Eat & Drink

FOOD DUDES

HUNGRY HUNTER STEAKHOUSE Best steak, prime rib in town

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Prime rib 38

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

From left: Food Dudes Matt Munoz, Richard Collins, Louis Amestoy and Jason Cater prepare to dig in at Hungry Hunter Steakhouse.

Compiled by Bakersfield Life

Photos by Greg Nichols

ucked away along one of Bakersfield’s most traveled and iconic routes is a family style restaurant with something to satisfy everyone. With its cabin-style design, friendly service and comfy atmosphere, Hungry Hunter Steakhouse welcomes its patrons from the time they step through the front door until they leave with their bellies full and a smile on their faces.

APPETIZERS Richard Collins on the hot and spicy shrimp: I was fresh

Hungry 99 Hunter Steakhouse

Hungry Hunter Steakhouse

204

3580 Rosedale Highway ROSEDALE HWY

MOHAWK ST

off the plane after two weeks in New Orleans, so I had to try these shrimp. The description claimed to offer a half dozen jumbo shrimp sauteed in Louisiana pepper butter. And it was right! The shrimp were cooked tender with bursts of cayenne butter flavor, both smooth and full of tongue-tingling heat. Jason Cater on the potato skins: Anyone looking to start the evening with a great American culinary creation must try the potato skins. Served in fours, these lightly golden treats are filled with melted American cheese and topped with crispy bacon bits. One bite will simply make your taste buds tingle. Louis Amestoy on the mini babas: Our group sampled several items, but I’d have to say that I could probably make a meal out of the mini babas, four Cajun-seasoned lamb chops. Of course, when you’re Basque (and named Amestoy) you’re going to have to pick the lamb chop, but it really was exceptional.

Hungry Hunter features cabin-style architecture and comfortable, casual atmosphere.

24th ST VE UXTU N A TR

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3580 Rosedale Highway 661-328-0580 hungryhuntersteakhouse.com Open 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday for lunch; 5 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday for dinner; 4:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday; noon to 9 p.m. Sunday

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Xxx Predinner tableside salad

Hot and spicy shrimp appetizer

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ENTREES Richard on the predinner tableside salad: Salads are not always exciting. I usually skip them because they’re healthy. But having the salad tossed at your table makes it more interesting, especially with the house Parmesan balsamic dressing. After selecting all the ingredients yourself, you have only yourself to blame if you don’t like it. Matt Munoz on the whiskey peppercorn top sirloin:

Whiskey peppercorn top sirloin

Flame broiled salmon 40

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

After hearing our server rave, I made sure to make room for the whiskey peppercorn top sirloin. This is Angus top sirloin at its finest, placed atop a bed of their homemade sauce. At 7 ounces, any fan of this particular cut of meat will have no problem finishing the entire serving. The charbroiled flavors come right through, complemented by a bevy of peppercorn flair. To kick it up another notch, I tested out a few of the steak topping offerings we were suggested by our server: sauteed onions and garlic and sauteed mushrooms. Amazing at every bite! Jason on the flame broiled salmon: As a restaurant known for serving quality cuts, the salmon is certainly something to write home about. Whether you are looking for a great healthy meal or looking to satisfy a seafood craving, this dish delivers. Served with a side of flavorful rice pilaf and a savory baked potato, this entree was simply irresistible. Each bite of this sauteed fish provided the burst of flavor anyone would look for in a great meal. Louis on the prime rib: This is 1¼ pounds of meat served with vegetables and crispy onion battered green beans. The prime rib was everything you’d expect, but I think I polished off most of the green beans before Matt Munoz could get a hold of them. I love green beans and I can’t remember having them fried before, and it was fantastic. You have to go to Hungry Hunter for prime rib. It’s a go-to dinner for me, and it’s terrific at Hungry Hunter.

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Homemade strawberry shortcake

DESSERTS Jason on the carrot cake: Having surveyed Hungry Hunter’s lavish lineup of desserts I just could not say no to the carrot cake. With its hearty portion, this treat was sure to satisfy. Buried beneath a layer of vanilla icing, this moist fluffy cake was the perfect way to end a great evening. Matt on the homemade strawberry shortcake: I’m a sucker for tra-

ditional-style strawberry shortcake, but this surpassed my expectations. Piled high on the plate, the tasty stack of fresh poundcake is covered in freshly cut strawberries blended with sweet strawberry sauce and topped with whipped cream. After being informed this particular dish was only offered seasonally, my fellow Food Dudes and I cleared off the plate together. More than just a slice of heaven, make sure to ask for it, and soon. It’s no wonder why Hungry Hunter Steakhouse is a local favorite. The assortment of items on the menu make it difficult to pick just one. From the appetizer sampler – crab stuffed mushrooms, potato skins and calamari – to the succulent desserts, you might want to reschedule that movie after dinner. bakersfieldlife.com

Eat & Drink

LUNCHTIME PICKS

LA COSTA MARISCOS Tasty Mexican food for lunch By Laura Liera

Photos by Mark Nessia

efore you even order your meal, you’ll already have a crush on this family run neighborhood favorite: La Costa Mariscos. Not only because it’s easy to pretend you’re in Puerto Vallarta with its colorful murals, but because the aroma of Mexican food welcomes you as you enter. Starting you off with a fresh batch of corn tortilla chips and its exquisite salsa once seated, is the perfect initiation to the delicious meals your taste buds will thank you for. And what’s even better is the lunch menu was recently updated after five years, said Alex Joya, the general manager. There are seven mouthwatering dishes to choose from. Fair warning: you might have trouble picking just one. So grab a chip, dip it in salsa and satisfy your hunger! Chicken Colorado ($8.95): I could smell the authentic spicy Colorado sauce on this dish as our waiter brought it to our table and I knew I’d like it immediately. I’m a sucker for a little kick and this dish took care of my spicy craving. The dish comes with two flour tortillas. I recommend making a taco with the grilled chicken sauteed in the Colorado sauce to truly enjoy the flavors. As per most dishes at La Costa, it is accompanied by homemade rice and refried beans. Don’t be afraid to slather some beans as the base of your taco so that you can make a fort for all of that delicious red sauce. This is one you might not want to share with others; it’s just that good!

Tropical shrimp salad Tropical shrimp salad ($8.95): This salad almost looks too good to eat – the keyword being almost. With two grilled shrimp skewers (six shrimp in total) on a bed of romaine lettuce, avocado, garbanzo and black beans, jicama, strawberries, mango and a homemade pepita sauce, this dish complements the iconic heat in Bakersfield. It’s fresh and leaves you satisfied. The pepita sauce is unique and brings the entire salad to another level of goodness. The best part is you can eat the taco bowl shell it comes in!

Chicken Colorado

La Costa Mariscos Bakersfield 3401 Chester Ave. 661-322-2655 www.facebook.com/lacostamariscosbakersfield

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

During lunch, La Costa Mariscos is where the crowds come hungry and leave satisfied. The selection of seafood dishes during lunch are both affordable and savory. If you want to expose your palate to authentic Mexican food for lunch, La Costa Mariscos should be on your list. You’ll leave knowing why this family-owned restaurant, celebrating nearly 25 years, has one of the most loyal followings in town.

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Eat & Drink

FOOD AND WINE

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

By Anna C. Smith

Cheryl’s Diner in Kernville

DINING OFF THE BEATEN PATH By Anna C. Smith

ather than keep these hidden gems to ourselves, as a summer gift to our dear readers, we resolved to spread the love. Below are some of the best restaurant secrets in the entire county. As you make your way to The Crest Bar and Grill, you might reconsider, but don’t. The sheer fact that the road to this place leads you directly through the heart of the Bakersfield RV Resort only adds to the hidden appeal. We repeat, ignore the “no trespassing” signs. Regulars to The Crest who

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June August 2015 2015

live in the RV park add to the nostalgic ambiance. Patrons report that the service is warm, yet efficient; the location is unexpected; and the bar is the best place to sit. The Crest has a menu loaded with good comfort food, fair prices and free Wi-Fi. Travel to the quaint, locally owned Petra Mediterranean Restaurant in Tehachapi and you will be rewarded with a mouthwatering meal full of flavor. Regulars recommend you order the pungent fresh-cut garlic fries, chicken shawarma wrap, freshly brewed hot or iced mint tea, and take a seat on the patio. If you’re seeking healthier fare, choose the Greek salad

Woolworth’s Diner

Petra Mediterranean Restaurant’s garlic fries

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Hidden gems near and far brought to light

topped with your choice of grilled meat. Don’t let the thrift items distract you on your way to Woolworth’s Diner. Head to the back of the Five & Dime Antique Mall in downtown Bakersfield and you will find a quaint little luncheonette, seemingly stuck in time. Popular items at this hidden lunch spot include the traditional burger and fries, root beer floats and creamy milkshakes. Every detail adds to the experience, down to the spinning barstools, cheerful wait staff, ’50s-era tunes, old-school bottled soda pop, and black-and-white checkered floor. Take a trip toward the mountains for breakfast or brunch at Cheryl’s Diner in Kernville, and you will not be disappointed. Sip coffee out of a Cheryl’s mug and start the day with your favorite egg dish – scrambled, omelet, fried simple or benedict – and sides such as crispy hash browns, country potatoes, bacon and freshly cut fruit.

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One trendy practice in the restaurant business is to have off-the-menu items served regularly. High-end restaurants often offer unrefined or unexpected dishes like chili cheese fries without publicizing it. It's a reward to the regulars, those in the know. A less sophisticated version includes In-N-Out Burger’s not-so-secret-anymore “animal style” hamburger option.

Continued on page 46 RE

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The Crest Bar and Grill

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Continued from page 45 Mexicali has been a staple in town since 1953, and we know its existence is not necessarily a secret. However, there are a few items never printed on the menu but served upon request. If you simply order â&#x20AC;&#x153;guacamole dipâ&#x20AC;? off the menu, your waiter will bring a version of the popular Mexican appetizer of a thinner consistency. You may not know that a chunkier, more homemade-tasting guacamole can always be ordered at the Mexicali downtown. If you specify your preference for this secret menu item, your waiter will acknowledge immediately, perhaps with a wink and a nod. Also available, but never on the Mexicali menu or specials list, are fish and chips and Buffalo wings. No secret handshake required!

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

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Eat & Drink

FOODIE

LUIS AGUILAR Mexican homestyle flair nestled in Lamont By Laura Liera Photos by Mark Nessia

or owner Luis Aguilar, 67, cooking is an art form. The flavors, spices and ingredients in a dish complement each other to create a memorable first bite. The aroma of minced garlic, onion and peppers wafts through the air at El Pueblo Restaurant immediately after stepping foot into Aguilar’s iconic establishment in Lamont. “Everything that we prepare is sauteed, rarely deep fried and that’s because I want every bite to have that crunch or burst of natural flavor when you bite down on it,” Aguilar said. As the third oldest of 14 siblings, Aguilar spent a lot of time in the kitchen with his mom and brothers. There wasn’t a time where a hot pot of beans wasn’t cooking on the stove or when his mom wasn’t making fresh cheese. Born and raised in Michoacan, Mexico, Aguilar arrived to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. Not knowing a single soul in a massive foreign city, Aguilar was homeless for two weeks until one morning, when his life changed. 48

Bakersfield Life Magazine

A friendly married couple approached Aguilar at a grocery store and learned about his situation. They were a blessing from God, Aguilar said. The couple took in Aguilar and gave him room and board. “My first shower at their home felt like holy water on my skin,” he said. Over the next few years, Aguilar worked at the family’s August 2015

restaurant, La Fiesta, as a janitor and dishwasher. Eventually, after five years, Aguilar found a position at El Torito and at Holiday Inn and ended up in Bakersfield. “On my days off, I would go to the restaurant and just observe the chefs and the bartender,” Aguilar said. That’s where he got a feel of the restaurant business. In 1991, Aguilar and his

brothers started up El Pueblo Restaurant after working and managing the original El Jacalito restaurant in Lamont for 10 years. “I have customers that have been coming to El Pueblo since we opened and they order the same food every time,” he said. People from as far as Delano, McFarland, Tehachapi, Wasco and, of course, Bakersfield make the drive to Lamont just to enjoy authentic Mexican food.

Shrimp Cocktail 1

⁄3 cup of chopped cilantro ⁄3 cup of chopped tomato 1 ⁄3 cup of chopped avocado 1 chopped serrano pepper 1 ⁄4 cup of cocktail sauce 1 ⁄4 cup of orange juice 1 ⁄8 teaspoon of garlic powder 12 shrimps 3 bay leaves 1 ⁄2 teaspoon of Greek and Mexican oregano 2 cloves of garlic, smashed 4 cups of water 1

The recipes used date back more than 30 years and the menu has not changed since. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my faithful and loyal customers,” Aguilar said. “They are the reason I come to work seven days a week.” Popular dish on the menu: Shrimp Cancun – A dozen specially prepared shrimp in a tasty seasoned batter sauteed with tomatoes and bell peppers in a spicy butter wine sauce. Served with rice and beans.

Must-have spices: Greek oregano, Mexican oregano, white and black pepper, granulated garlic, garlic cloves, cumin, rosemary and white wine. Favorite meal as a child: Beans, homemade corn tortillas, chicken and mole, and a glass of lemonade. Advice for beginning cooks at home: Don’t give up on a dish. Cooking requires time and patience. Remember that no recipe is impossible. Anybody can cook; it just takes time.

On medium heat, bring water, garlic, oregano and bay leaves to a boil in a pan. Drop in shrimp and move around until they are ready — when they turn pink. Remove shrimp and place on a plate. Take the broth where the shrimp was cooked and pour it into a serving bowl. Add the cilantro, tomato, avocado, serrano pepper, cocktail sauce, orange juice and garlic powder. Mix and then add the shrimp. Enjoy chilled with a side of saltine crackers.

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Come see the benefits of Bakersfield’s only nonprofit continuing care retirement community. Call 1-866-588-6266 today. ExperienceRW.com Rosewood in Bakersfield, California, is owned and managed by ABHOW, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. ABHOW is a nonsectarian corporation, serving seniors through quality retirement housing since 1949. State of California License #150400536, DHS License #120000165, Certificate of Authority #203.

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Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

The sleek, redesigned 2015 Ford Edge is 4 inches longer and nearly 2 inches taller than its predecessor.

2015 FORD EDGE TITANIUM Newly redesigned crossover is the highest expression of a popular category

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

By Glenn Hammett

“S

Photos by Mark Nessia

UV” (sports utility vehicle) and “crossover” are terms that are loosely tossed around, and often used interchangeably, when describing a vehicle these days. Technically, an SUV is built on a truck chassis, while a crossover is based on a passenger car. The original SUV, the military jeep of WWII, was a spartan utilitarian vehicle designed to handle any terrain. In 1990, Ford introduced the Explorer, a truck-based SUV with passenger car amenities, beginning the evolution of the SUV toward comfort and luxury. Over the next couple of decades, consumers’ appetites for the stature and spaciousness of SUVs burgeoned, but most didn’t want to sacrifice the smooth ride of their sedans. Thus, the crossover was born. The newly redesigned 2015 Ford Edge Titanium represents the highest expression of the crossover concept. It may look like an SUV on the outside, but it’s pure comfort and convenience inside.

The absence of road and wind noise inside the cabin is astounding.

The redesigned front grille of the 2015 Edge gives it a whole new attitude.

It’s all in the details Gas mileage: Our 2.0 EcoBoost engine achieves 30 mpg highway, 20 mpg city and an average of 24 mpg. Price tag: Starting MSRP SE: $28,995 to Sport AWD: $40,990 Three words that define the 2015 Ford Edge Titanium : Savvy. Stylish. Sophisticated.

The 2015 Edge features navigation, heated and air-conditioned seats, and a Sony premium sound system.

Though it looks leaner and sleeker due to its more defined bodylines, the 2015 Edge is actually 4 inches longer and nearly 2 inches taller than last year’s model. As the car’s chief designer, Kevin George, told Motor Trend: “It’s a runner now, slender but muscular.” Under the hood is Ford’s new 2.0-liter four-cylinder, powerful and efficient EcoBoost engine. It generates an ample 245 horsepower and gets an estimated 30 mpg on the highway. The Edge Titanium’s interior is on par with that of its pricier European rivals. The cabin is smartly designed with generous amounts of rich, stitched ebony leather and low profile heated and air-conditioned front seats. Each time I test-drive a car, there is usually one feature or attribute that surprises and amazes me. With the 2015 Ford Edge, it was how quiet it was. Ford has improved the insulation and body seals and employed acoustic glass for the front windshield and front door windows. The results are pretty amazing. Road, wind and engine noise are practically nonexistent, even at highway speeds. With less ambient noise, music (played through the Edge’s Sony premium sound system) is more enjoyable, conversations are more intimate and the whole driving experience is more pleasurable.

Five best features: 180-degree front-facing camera. Perpendicular park assist. Electronic power-assisted steering. Inflatable rear seat belts. SOS post crash alert with 911 assist. Target customer: New families moving from a sedan or coupe to something that accommodates their need for passenger and cargo. The 2015 Ford Edge Titanium is perfect for … Someone seeking the best technology available, along with high-end luxury features and modern styling. What do you like most about the 2015 Ford Edge Titanium? Bold new styling. The Edge has always been a best-seller and now it is even sleeker, more aerodynamic and beautiful. Source: Marcus Hampton, Jim Burke Ford new and used car sales and leasing

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Continued from page 51 The Edge also has a couple of slick new tech/safety features worth mentioning. First is Enhanced Park Assist, which requires the driver only to brake and shift from drive to reverse to park the car, either parallel or perpendicular. You take your hands off of the wheel and the car does the rest. Secondly is the 180-degree front camera, which allows you to see around parked cars and other obstacles when pulling out of alleys and parking spots. It is hard to believe that something as refined and technologically advanced as the 2015 Ford Edge evolved from the WWII military jeep. Whether you call it an SUV or a crossover, the 2015 Ford Edge is the perfect choice for someone wanting the passenger and cargo capacity of a station wagon, the sporty good looks of an SUV and the comfort of a luxury sedan.

Ford’s 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine gets an impressive 30 mpg on the highway.

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Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

2015 HYUNDAI SANTA FE GLS Powerful, safe and thoughtfully designed, the seven-passenger SUV is perfect for an active family

The 2015 Santa Fe has plenty of power and a firm, solid feel on the road. 54

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

By Glenn Hammett

Photos by Mark Nessia

f I could turn back the clock 15-20 years, when our kids were involved in countless club sports and afterschool activities and we always had some additional payload in the form of teammates and gear, the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe would be the perfect tool for the job. Not that our Plymouth Voyager did not serve us well. Other than being under-powered and unreliable, handling like a bus and scoring poorly in crash tests, it was great. With its powerful 3.3-liter V-6 engine, 10-year warranty and outstanding safety ratings, the 2015 Santa Fe would have solved all of the shortcomings we endured with our good old minivan.

The Santa Fe’s wrap-around headlights are borrowed from the Sonata.

The interior of the 2015 Santa Fe is surprisingly spacious.

First impressions tell you a lot about a vehicle and I was initially struck with the spaciousness of the Santa Fe’s interior. There is plenty of leg and headroom and you don’t feel like you are in a movie theater where you have to claim your space on the armrest before the person sitting next to does. The seven-passenger Santa Fe also boasts exceptional visibility through the side and rear windows, which adds to the feeling of openness. I test-drove the GLS model, which falls below the more luxurious Limited, and found the interior to be surprisingly plush and comfortable. Though there are no panels of rare exotic wood, the design is bold, yet thoughtful, and the materials are first-rate. Heated front seats and reclining second-row seats are standard on the GLS model and the third-row seating, while best-suited for kids and teens, can accommodate two adults if needed. That’s more than can be said for most midsized seven-passenger SUVs. While not as striking and innovative as that of the Hyundai’s sedans (the Elantra and the Sonata), the Santa Fe’s exterior is, nevertheless, handsome and beautifully designed and does borrow elements from its siblings. The distinctive grille and wrap-around headlights closely resemble those on the Sonata, while the standard

Continued on page 56

There is room for seven passengers and lots of cargo space when the third-row seats are folded down.

It’s all in the details Gas Mileage: 18 city, 25 highway, and 21 combined in FWD (18,24,20 in AWD) Price Range: $30,150 up to $38,900 in FWD ($31,900-$40,650 AWD) Five best features: • Ventilated seats • Standard back-up camera with 4.3-inch touch screen (8-inch screen with navigation) • Hands-free smart liftgate • A/C vents with temperature control for all three rows • Panoramic sunroof Target Customer: Individuals looking for an equipped and dependable SUV that won’t break the bank on price and at the pump. The Santa Fe is perfect for: The modern family seeking a multipurpose vehicle that suits various lifestyles. Three words that best describe the 2015 Santa Fe: • Nu-age • Reliable • Comfortable What do you like most about the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe? An all-around SUV that combines the best aspects of dependability, comfort and luxury. Source: Jesus Ramirez, sales associate

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Continued from page 55 18-inch alloy wheels give it a sturdy, masculine look. On the road, the Santa Fe feels spirited, yet stable. Its 3.3-liter V-6 motor delivers 290 horsepower while a achieving respectable fuel economy numbers of 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. It accelerates smoothly and cruises quietly at highway speeds. The ride is firm without being harsh and handling feels solid and predictable. The Santa Fe’s three driving modes, Comfort, Normal and Sport, allow you to alter the steering characteristics to fit different driving conditions. While there may be flashier midsized SUVs out there, there may not be a better value. The 2015 Santa Fe GLS is well designed, solidly built and does everything well. The model I tested had a sticker price of $33,000 and the top-of-the-line Limited model with all of the available options tops out at about $41,000, still well below most of its competitors. For a family hauling kids and gear to soccer, swimming, dance, baseball, etc., one would be hardpressed to find a better option.

The 2015 Santa Fe is a solid, thoughtfully designed SUV priced well below most of its competitors.

Thank you Bakersfield for your continued business.

For information on Rentals, Buying or Selling, call St. Clair Realty today @ 661) 834-4202

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The St. Clair Family of businesses have been providing real estate services to Bakersfield residents for over 60 years. The St. Clair Family Business maintains the highest level of service and quality of living for their residents and highest level of service to their customers.

Buyers Sellers Rentals

3401 Wible Road • Bakersfield, California 93309

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August 2015

“Thank you Kern County for nominating us”

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Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

The spacious GMC Yukon Denali is great for shopping as editor Olivia Garcia discovered.

2015 GMC YUKON DENALI Yukon Denali soars above the rest

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

By Olivia Garcia

Photos by Michael Lopez

est-driving the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali made me realize how much I still love SUVs. When my two oldest were just babies, my husband and I made to switch over to a SUV, and there it became an extension of our family life as we loaded the car with school supplies, sports gear or travel items and drove the kids to and from school and after-school practices, onto to annual family trips and frequent visits to dinners or movies. We saw our little boys grow up into big boys and teenagers (our oldest turns 18 this summer), and we witnessed their nieces, nephews and friends grow up with them in the process, all in the journey of our SUV. I was reminded of these special memories when I test-drove the 2015 Yukon Denali – except this time I was surrounded by style and comfort. Not to knock our old, faithful SUV – we loved ours – but the SUVS of today, especially the Yukon

Perfect leather treatment

Easy-to-navigate entertainment center

It’s all in the details Five best features about the 2015 Yukon Denali: • The all-new Denali exclusive Dark Atmosphere perforated leather seats. A very unique color, think black and tan mixed together. • 22” Denali-exclusive wheels. GMC really hit a home run with these new wheels. • Available adaptive cruise control. Set your cruising speed, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride as your Denali adjusts automatically to slower traffic ahead. • One-touch power liftgate. • Driver’s display view options. Select from three different screens (standard, media and technology) to customize your Denali to your personality. City and highway mileage and price tag: 15 city, 22 highway starting at $64,520.

Denali, are top-notch, from the interior through the exterior. Consider some of the following details: For one, its 6.2-liter V-8 EcoTec3 engine captures the right combination of power and efficiency. It is also robust enough to pull a trailer. I drove the Denali through neighborhood streets, busy freeways and main roads and was impressed with its smooth-ride suspension and magnetic ride control. So many improvements over the past years have improved the look of SUVs. In the Denali’s exterior, you are introduced to the eye-catching grille, projector-beam high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, front and rear LED lighting, remote keyless entry and improved aerodynamics for reduced wind noise. For the interior, there is just too much to list. But I’ll go with some of my favorites. They include the perforated leather heated and cooled front seats, the 10-speaker Bose surround sound audio system and active noise-cancellation feature and the 8-inch touch-screen display, which made it easy to navigate between settings.

The 2015 Yukon Denali is perfect for: The entire family. What makes the 2015 Yukon Denali stand out from others? The strong yet refined look of the 2015 Yukon Denali makes it a top-shelf full-size SUV. Target customer: Customers who have the best golf clubs, jogging stroller, or snow skis and carry that expectation into an SUV purchase. Three words that define the 2015 Yukon Denali: Strong, refined, capable. What do you like the most about the 2015 Yukon Denali? I like the 6.2-liter V-8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine will make you smile. Source: Rusty Kuhns, product specialist

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Continued from page 59 Safety is also covered. Aside from the airbags, the Denali relies on forward-collision alert, side blind zone alert, lane departure warning, rear-vision camera and much more. I love safety alerts, especially because I’m a mom and a shorty so driving an SUV can seem intimidating but these added safety features showed it was taking care of me and my guys. The Yukon Denali is sure to impress and worth the experience. Jeff Mitchell, a senior writer and political columnist for The Salinas Californian, recently test-drove a Denali and said the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali is “big and it’s elegant and it’s got better furnishings inside than do most urban apartment dwellers (myself included!). It will comfortably seat and entertain eight passengers in a business class or better style. … I mean, there’s a reason that presidents and heads of state roll around in these things for cryin’ out loud — they’re that good.” Yes, they are.

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Plenty of room for passengers

Driver’s display viewing options

Comfort and all-star treatment

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Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 offers luxury, speed and fun.

MERCEDES-BENZ CLA 250 CLA 250, a twist of luxury and performance

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

By Olivia Garcia

’m quite familiar with the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 that was introduced last year. However, I was curious to discover improvements with its 2015 model. If you love luxury cars that offer a nice sporty or stylish feel – at a steal of a price (starting at $31,500) – then you won’t be disappointed with the CLA 250. Then again, what can go wrong with the all-too-familiar, favoriteamong-many German brand with roots dating back to 1886?

Photos by Mark Nessia

“The CLA 250 symbolizes a sheer blend of luxury, performance, superior safety and topquality technology,” said Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield Director of Marketing Hassan Halevy. “Although it is new line to the brand, the CLA 250 is gaining quite a following, and there’s good reason for that.” Indeed. A New York Times article this month highlighted how the Mercedes Benz iconic brand continues to be among the top luxury lines.

Uncompromising technology

The CLA 250 is packed with an AMG version with a powerful fourcylinder engine.

It’s all in the details Best features about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: • Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with shift paddles. • Radar-based, collision prevention assist with autonomous braking capability. • Keyless start. • Dual-zone automatic climate control. • Twelve-way power seat with three memory settings for the seat and outside mirrors. • Mbrace telematics with mobile app for smart phone locking, unlocking and locating car.

Star treatment Gas mileage: 29 mpg city, 38 mpg highway Price tag: $31,500

“If you’re not feeding the brand from the bottom over time, if you don’t have that healthy inflow of younger buyers, you’ll become irrelevant at some point,” Steve Cannon, chief executive of Mercedes-Benz USA, said in a New York Times interview with writer Lawrence Ulrich. Cannon told the New York Times that the CLA model is becoming a popular draw. As Sergio Helou, sales consultant of Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield, walked me through and named off a number of key features of the CLA 250 at the Gasoline Alley Drive dealership, I stood by

taking in the details while admiring its design. According to the Mercedes website, the design of the fourdoor coupe is “inspired by its trendsetting big brother, the CLAClass” with its “flowing curves” and “crisp, sweeping arc,” delivering a pleasing-on-the-eyes sculpture. The interior is just as sweet with its sporty leather seats, ambient interior LED lighting that illuminates just perfectly at night and standard anthracite trim that sets the CLA 250 above its competitors in taste. Another neat feature is the standard 7-inch freestanding

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The 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 is perfect for: Satisfying your driving hunger, even in daily commuting as well as when on fun trips. What makes the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 stand out from others? Uncompromised safety, luxury and performance technology. Target customer: One who enjoys breaking away from the ordinary to drive the best. Three words that define the 2015 MercedesBenz CLA 250: Fast, fun, frugal. What do you like the most about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: In addition to the very responsive standard engine, one can get an AMG version with the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine in production. Source: James Whelden, product concierge, Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield

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screen where you can switch your music preferences, from local stations, satellite or Internet radio, and your Bluetooth audio steaming. It can come equipped with the Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system. The CLA 250 is also wired for navigation. I was a big fan of its keyless entry. I never had to pull my keys out of my purse once. Sliding my hand by the door, it would unlock and it would lock with the gentle pushing of the door handle button. I think my female readers will appreciate this option especially when we are out shopping. Safety is another impressive area of the CLA 250. From the adaptive brake technology and anti-theft alarm system to the blind spot and lane keeping assistance, security is bliss. The CLA 250 also features an SOS/Emergency Call service that is critical if you are ever involved in a car

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August 2015

CLA 250’s signature grille

accident. The system will alert authorities and zero in on your location and communicate with you. And let’s not forget its gas-saving

incentive – you get a combined fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon. The CLA 250 is a keeper in my book.

bakersfieldlife.com

Lifestyles

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S

HELPING THE HOMELESS By Tyler Stevens

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Whether you take one or 50 meals out, it means so much to people that you made the effort.

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Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

PHOTO BY MICHAEL LOPEZ

hen June Murray’s 9year-old and 7-year-old son drew up their New Year’s resolutions in 2014, one that stood out was their desire to prepare meals and give to those less fortunate in the Bakersfield area. Murray, her husband Sean and their two boys, Jett, 9, and Tash, 7, decided to make a family goal. Today, June and her sons spend their weeks in the downtown Bakersfield area, delivering food to the homeless. Initially, they wanted to help out at the local homeless shelters but June said her children’s young age prevented them from being able to volunteer at the shelter. Nevertheless, the family is able to deliver about 10 lunches a week in the downtown area where she has noticed a high number of homeless people of all ages and backgrounds. Her sons’ desire to help has not gone unnoticed. Recently, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce recognized them with a Beautiful Bakersfield Award for their selfless giving. The boys try to make the lunch bags as personal as possible by drawing pictures and words of encouragement on the outside. Their mom prepares the — June Murray meals and snacks and includes water. For the boys, they find reward in making a difference in a person’s life no matter how small. In fact, the biggest reward for Tash is to hear them say “God

June Murray and her boys Jett, left, and Tash make meals for homeless people and pass them out in various alleys in Bakersfield. bless you.” Jett loves seeing how happy they are to receive the lunch bags. June feels rewarded by seeing how something small can bring joy to others and watching her boys learn from it. One homeless man told them that he was praying to God he would see them again. While June feels her family’s gift giving is small, she is hoping others in the community can help. “There are so many people in the Bakersfield area who are homeless, hungry or just can’t afford a balanced meal each day,” she said. “Making a lunch and asking if someone is in need is all it takes. Whether you take one or 50 meals

out, it means so much to people that you made the effort.” If people would rather volunteer their time, she encouraged them to seek out the Bakersfield Homeless Center. Volunteers help prepare meals in the kitchen, sort clothes and other goods in the warehouse, and help kids with their homework after school. June says she is heartfelt to see how her sons are learning from this experience. “Most situations, we don’t understand, but we pray every week for guidance before we go out,” June said. “ I hope my kids are learning how easy it is to serve others.”

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Lifestyles

I N M Y C LO S E T

BRANDON STALLINGS Deputy DA sharp in and out of courtroom Compiled by Bakersfield Life

Photos by Mark Nessia

f you saw Brandon Stallings in court, you’d never know that there’s possibly a story behind the cufflinks and ties he sports. The 31-year-old deputy district attorney purchases accessories that have sentimental value to him, like the navy blue silk knit tie he picked up in Paris last year on his honeymoon. Or the black water pearl cufflinks he found in Australia. “I have a lot of things that I have gotten when I’ve traveled overseas and they all have a story,” Stallings said. Inside his closet, you can find a selection of conservative-colored suits and dress shirts – blues, grays and blacks. The pop of color comes from his selection of ties that are neatly hung from a few tie hangers. But Stallings admits he’s been trying to step outside of his comfort zone when it comes to his wardrobe selection. “My wife is definitely trying to branch me out a bit and explore with more colors,” he said, pointing at the lavender dress shirt his wife picked out for the photo shoot. When it comes to his suits, there is a reason why you won’t see them at your local men’s boutiques. For the past six years, Stallings has had suits custom made in Hong Kong. Stallings chooses the material, color and fit. Jack Aswani, the suit designer, tailors suits for several other attorneys in town. He visits Bakersfield from Hong Kong at least three times a year to custom fit and tailor his customers’ suits and shirts. “You get cool things on your suit like this specialty ‘made for Brandon Stallings’ logo inside the jacket,” he said.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

Black pearl cufflinks from Australia and St. John's cufflinks

Shoes from Cole Haan and Aston Grey

Fashion inspiration: GQ magazine, Instagram and my youth. When I was in high school, we had a strict dress code and that continued into law school. So I’ve always been a suit-and-tie guy. Favorite outfit: Blue suit, white shirt and red tie. I’ve read people who have a uniform look tend to be more focused and driven. My go-to outfit on a Saturday night: I’m a big Denver Broncos fan so I wear my gym shorts and maybe a marathon shirt. In the evening, I’ll put on a pair of flat-front tailored khakis with a chambray button-down shirt. How does your job contribute to your wardrobe? As an attorney, I’m appearing in front of a judge, fellow attorneys or in front of jurors on any given day, so I always dress to be the person I want to be: professional and sharp in order to give a good impression. Fashion advice: Go with something you are comfortable with but makes you want to be better than you are at that time in your life. Pick up a fashion magazine and get the basics.

Jack Spade bag (left) for everyday use. McKlein bag (right) for work. bakersfieldlife.com

Lifestyles

FIT AND FRESH

PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER

IF YOU CAN’T ESCAPE THE HEAT, YOU MIGHT AS WELL EMBRACE IT Roasted red pepper hummus

By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

he Hell of a Half Marathon in Exeter, hosted by Sole 2 Soul Sports, is guaranteed to test one’s mettle as they trek through a blazinghot 13.1-mile course near the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. A warm breakfast, “the best chocolate milk on earth” and bragging rights await those who complete the journey. Don’t forget to work the upper half of your body with some tricep dips, which will keep your arms looking toned and strong. Refuel your muscles with some roasted red pepper hummus containing chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber.

THE INCREDIBLE LITTLE CHICKPEA Chickpeas are the ultimate one-two dietary punch. They are high in fiber while also being high in protein. If you’re vegan or need to be on a gluten-free diet, chickpeas are an excellent source of plantbased protein as well as iron, vitamin B6 and magnesium. One cup of cooked chickpeas contains 269 calories, 45 grams of carbohydrates, 15 grams of protein,

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

13 grams of dietary fiber, 4 grams of fat and zero grams of cholesterol. A one-cup serving of raw chickpeas provides 50 percent of daily potassium needs, 2 percent vitamin A, 21 percent calcium, 13 percent vitamin C, 69 percent iron, 2 percent sodium, 55 percent vitamin B6 and 57 percent magnesium. Additionally, chickpeas contain vitamin K, folate, phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese, choline and selenium.

2 cans (each 15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and well rinsed 2-5 garlic cloves, minced 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (we prefer our hummus extra bright and lemony – adjust lemon to your taste) 1 ⁄4 cup tahini 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika 1 ⁄4 teaspoon cumin 1 ⁄4 cup olive oil salt and pepper to taste (if you prefer a spicy hummus, add 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.) Using a food processor or Vitamix blender, combine chickpeas, garlic, roasted red bell pepper, lemon juice, tahini, paprika and cumin. Pulse until the mixture reaches a uniform consistency. With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Taste for seasoning. Serve with toasted bread, pita chips and fresh veggies.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SALLY BAKER

HELL OF A HALF MARATHON

chocolate milk on earth; a steel insulated water bottle, which is the best I’ve ever owned; and a warm burrito. This race may be warm, OK, it may be hot, but it is such a great course, well supported with great swag, that I would most definitely recommend it for an enjoyable destination race not too far from Bakersfield. Included in the early registration price of $85 is a tech shirt, Spenco sandals, insulated water bottle and chip timing. For complete information about this event, visit hellofahalf.com.

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Just a short drive up the valley (1 hour, 25 minutes) brings you to the small picturesque town of Exeter. Sole 2 Soul Sports hosts this challenging race on Aug. 15, starting in the center of Exeter and taking you up two large hills, winding through beautiful oak-studded meadows and rocky outcrops, before dropping back down to the finish line 13.1 miles later. Nine well-stocked aid stations are dotted along the route, providing treats from cold sponges to ice pops and gels. Awaiting you beyond the finish line is the best-tasting cold

TRICEP DIPS The tricep dip is a basic bodyweight exercise to tone the muscle that runs along the underside of the upper arm. Most of us live in tank tops during the Bakersfield summer, and show our arms most of the time. This exercise will help keep them toned and strong. Position your hands on a secure bench (or floor), extending your body out in front of you. Straighten your arms, but do not lock the

elbow joint – keep a little bend there. Slowly bend your elbows to lower your body until your elbow is approximately at a 90-degree angle. Keep your back close to the bench. Then just straighten your arms again to return you to the starting position. That is one rep. Start by trying two sets of eight repetitions, then adding more each day. Try to build up to two sets of 15 or 25 repetitions.

bakersfieldlife.com

Lifestyles

PA S T I M E S

THE THRILL OF THE RIDE Adventure, sightseeing await off-road

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

By Ellen Ewing Photos by Jenn Ireland

If you want to give it a try, Bakersfield is a good place to be. There are nearly 20 different trails listed on trails.com within Kern County.

rew Birchford once got stuck in a snowstorm for 12 hours while offroading with a friend. They had nothing to do but huddle up, eat what little food they had and wait for the sheriff’s department to unlock a nearby gate. A cautionary tale, but the adventure is the allure of off-roading. If you want to give it a try, Bakersfield is a good place to be. There are nearly 20 different trails listed on trails.com within Kern County. “The most popular places to go are Freeway Ridge and Miller Jeep Trail,” said Frank Amezcua, store manager of 4 Wheel Parts in Bakersfield. According to trails.com, Freeway Ridge is located southwest of Lake Isabella and offers “outstanding views of the lake and surrounding mountains.” Miller Jeep Trail is on the south edge of Hungry Valley. Many of the customers who shop at Amezcua’s store also like to explore Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. It’s located 45 minutes from Bakersfield and 2.5 miles south of Gorman, just off Interstate 5. “That’s my favorite place to go, and a lot of my customers go camping there, too,” Amezcua said. For those who don’t have the vehicles to handle the trails, you can rent from Gorman Motorsport Rentals, located just outside the entrance to Hungry Valley. “Make your reservations over the phone,” said Glory Hunter, who owns the shop with her husband. “At the shop, we give you kneepads, elbow pads, gloves and goggles. You can rent helmets for $5 each.” Once you’ve paid for your rental — including a $400 deposit, which is fully refunded with no damage to the equipment — you take your receipt to the Hungry Valley park entrance and get your bike or quad. The price depends on your height and the length of your rental. If you’re a woman who’s 5

feet 2 inches, for example, you could rent the right size bike for you for four hours for $100. “It’s pretty easy for the customer because you just return the bike and leave,” Hunter said. “There’s no maintenance; you don’t have to clean it or anything.” Hunter has been off-roading for 16 years. “I’ve always loved off-roading,” she said. “I’ve been doing it since I could buy my own bike and truck. Backbone Trail is my favorite. It follows the ridge forever, and you get beautiful views of the mountains on both sides.” The off-roading adventure offers many benefits. Exercise, thrill, sightseeing and camping, of course, but you also have several choices in the type of vehicle you take. “Jeep is one of the most common vehicles,” said Birchford, an employee at 4 Wheel Parts. “Basically, what you take out there should have four-wheel drive, with a lift kit to make it taller, and bigger tires.” Trucks equipped to handle the trails are another popular choice. Of course, you can go smaller with quads and dirt bikes, too. “I prefer dirt biking because for me a quad is lazy,” Hunter said. “You sit all the time, which is uncomfortable, and it gives you a false sense of security because it’s four wheels and really wide. We get a lot of (rollover accidents) with our quads.” Safety should definitely be a priority when off-roading. Amezcua offers a few tips to keep in mind before heading out on the trail. “No. 1 is never go alone,” Amezcua said. “Do not go by yourself. Know the basics: winching, how to change a tire, that kind of thing. Don’t drink and drive. And take care of public lands. Don’t trash them; pick up after yourself. Stay on the trails. Don’t go out and make your own trails.” “And definitely bring plenty of water and food,” Birchford added. Just in case you get stuck in a blizzard with 18 inches of snow.

bakersfieldlife.com

HOME AND GARDEN

PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY DUDLEY

Lifestyles

Randy Dudley of GreenScape Curb Appeal sprays a lawn with an eco-friendly dye.

By Ellen Ewing

THE GRASS IS GREENER WHERE YOU SPRAY IT Xeriscaping, grass painting offer alternatives to water-hungry lawns

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

hen it comes to water, Alice Desilagua is all about saving money. “We’ve been thinking about what we can do to get our water bill down,” Desilagua said. “We just took out our back lawn in early June. We did it ourselves to cut the cost of the conversion process.” Desilagua is in the middle of a major gardening project at her residence. She and her husband have decided to switch from the traditional green lawn to xeriscaping. You may have heard of xeriscaping before, especially with the deep drought striking central and Southern California. Aaron Gundry-Monji of Monji Landscape Companies defines xeriscaping as “drought-tolerant, water-friendly landscape.” Instead of green grass, a xeriscaped lawn has native plants, mulch, rocks and trees.

Desilagua has been converting her lawn to xeriscaping since January. “That’s when we took out the fence and roses and put rocks in just as a start,” she said. For her own back lawn, she and her husband used a sod cutter and tackled it themselves. “In the mean time, we’ve called different businesses to do our front yard,” she said. “It has a slope, so we have to get an engineer to tell us how big the wall can be, and we have to get permits.” Leaving it all to professionals can become quite expensive. “For our front lawn, we’ve gotten prices anywhere from $5,000 to $35,000,” Desilagua chuckled. She is on the architectural review board in her community. Any changes to yards there must be submitted and approved. “We have neighbors who have xeriscaped already, and we’ve gotten a lot more who are requesting to xeriscape,” she said. Some gardening companies strongly encourage customers to get their hands dirty with yard work. “We have a professionally assisted landscape program at Monji Landscapes called PAL,” Gundry-Monji said. “It ensures you’re using the proper chemicals and sprays on your lawn, how to remove lawn thatch and so on. When you tackle your lawn yourself, a PAL project cuts the price of the conversion process in half.” Part of that process — Aaron Gundry-Monji involves replacing your sprinklers with drip irrigation. At Monji, the cost to install drip irrigation is $1,000 to $2,000. “It’s cost-effective where you can reduce your lawn and cut water consumption by about two-thirds overall,” GundryMonji said. “Converting to drip irrigation is probably the most effective means to keep your plants beautiful without wasting water.” If you’re still feeling skeptical about xeriscaping, you can always paint grass to look green again. Randy Dudley of GreenScape Curb Appeal charges 25 cents per square foot to spray your lawn with an eco-friendly lawn dye. “It’s a nice bright green so it looks like fresh grass, and the dye lasts about three months in this heat,” Dudley said. “Kids and dogs can play on it and if they eat it, it won’t hurt them. It dries in less than 10 minutes.” Lawn painting originated in Georgia. “It’s very popular back East,” Dudley said. “Your lawn dies in the winter there and people wanted to keep their lawns green year-round.” In order to have your lawn painted, you have to have grass, whether it’s dead or not. “The problem I run into is, I arrive and they don’t have grass,” Dudley said. “You’ve got to have something for me to spray. I can’t paint grass that isn’t there.”

“

Converting to drip irrigation is probably the most effective means to keep your plants beautiful without wasting water.

”

bakersfieldlife.com

Go & Do

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

MUSIC TO ONE’S EARS ‘Dream gig’ brings talented guitarists to Bakersfield

Brooks and John guitar duo

Laurence Juber

Jim Cox and John Jorgenson

“

The Desert Rose Band

We just have one rule: You don’t have to be famous. You just have to be very, very good!

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

— Rick Kreiser

”

By Paul Rivas

alling all guitar enthusiasts: The Guitar Master Series in Bakersfield is back to bring an eclectic group of string-playing musicians for locals. Rick Kreiser has put together a solid lineup of talented artists with many different styles from fingerstyle, slide and lap steel, to electric, and gypsy jazz. “And the artists are very accomplished vocalists as well. These are very talented folks,” said Kreiser. Kreiser said his goal is to organize a series for people of all ages who appreciate intimate musical settings. As he brings award-winning musicians from around the world, he encourages everyone to attend and have a great time. “We encourage our patrons to consider bringing young people who are sincerely interested in the performance of our shows,” said Kreiser. Kreiser was exposed to music of all genres as a child and he says that his life “has become immensely richer because of it.” He’s transferred that passion into The Guitar Master Series, which has been going strong since 2011. It all started when he attended a house concert of one of his favorite artists, Laurence Juber, in Los Angeles. “I asked Laurence, if he’d consider coming to Bakersfield to play for us. He said, ‘Sure,’ and on the drive home, I committed to making it happen. The only problem is I didn’t have a living room that could seat 50 people. So, I approached Amy at the Bell Tower Club, made a deal with Laurence’s agent and Guitar Masters was born,” said Kreiser. John Jorgenson, a musician who has toured with Elton

John and founding member of The Desert Rose Band, said: “Guitar Master Series is one of those dream gigs musicians get every now and then. All the elements are there for a magical evening: a welcoming host, a good sound, a spotless and comfortable venue, and, most importantly, a warm and attentive listening audience.” Brooks & John, a guitar duo that demonstrates its distinct styles and delights audiences with fingerpicking guitar solos, is scheduled to play for a welcoming Bakersfield audience. The blend of Brooks’ rapid guitar licks and John’s beautiful grooves combines for a magical sound that is infectious to the ear. After earning Recording of the Year from National Thumbpickers Hall of Fame for their first album, the duo is pushing their musical sound to a whole new level with their new album “GuitarSmiths.”

Guitar Masters’ mission is to bring talented guitarist and introduce them to brandnew fans in Bakersfield. “We just have one rule: You don’t have to be famous. You just have to be very, very good! And each of our artist is, indeed, famous in their own right and, of course, very good,” said Kreiser. The duo will be taking the stage at the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame located at 2231 R St. on Monday, Aug.13, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35. For more info., visit guitarmasters.org.

bakersfieldlife.com

Go & Do

TRIP PLANNER

DISCOVERING LITTLE PETROGLYPH CANYON Hidden treasure reveals one of best preserved displays of Native American rock art

The Little Petroglyph Canyon tour is not easy, but it is well worth the effort. 78

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

I can’t believe I lived in Kern County more than 20 years before I toured the Little Petroglyph Canyon on the China Lake Naval Weapons base. I even covered that base for a couple years! Story and photos by Lois Henry

on’t be like me and wait so long. Get on it! Well, actually you’ll have to wait until fall when it cools down. But mark your calendars. Meanwhile, let me tell you how incredible this place is. Little Petroglyph Canyon is in the Coso Rock Art District, to the north and east of Ridgecrest. This is the high desert at its best – immense vistas filled with sage, rocks and Joshua trees covered by an impossibly blue sky. It’s bleak and powerful. Even the air feels sharp. Little Petroglyph Canyon lies in the volcanic badlands between the Coso mountains and the Sierra Nevada and holds one of the best preserved displays of Native American rock art in the country. Because the Navy base is off-limits to the general public, damage to the art has been almost nil. Also, because it’s on a Navy base, tours are limited. There are lots of rules to follow and everyone is thoroughly checked out. Trust me, it’s all worth it once you get to the canyon. There’s no agreement as to who made the art and when. But the Paiute-Shoshone people settled in that area at least 800 years ago and probably contributed to the art. Scholars have dated some of the art to 10,000 years old. Other scholars theorize some could be even older, up to 16,000 years or more. Some of the rock art appears to show humans with bows and arrows and it’s known those

This is the high desert at its best – immense vistas filled with sage, rocks and Joshua trees covered by an impossibly blue sky.

weapons weren’t in use until about 1,500 years ago. If all that’s true, it means native people were leaving their mark in the canyon over a very long period. I can believe that, considering the staggering amount of art in this relatively small canyon (it’s only about 1.2 miles long). There are a ton of bighorn sheep depictions. Apparently, the sheep weren’t just considered meat animals, they were also possibly spirit animals associated with water or rain. They’re everywhere in the canyon. Only one is of a sheep’s face looking out from the canyon wall, so be on the look out. My absolute favorites are the shamans.

Alien in the corner

Dancing shaman

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Depictions of bighorn sheep and shamans are plentiful in Little Petroglyph Canyon.

Continued from page79 At least that’s what they’re theorized to be. They have rectangular bodies, usually decorated with a geometric pattern. They have bird feet and stick arms. Their heads are the best. One has two giant eyeballs on its shoulders. Another has a blank oval face with what look like flames coming from the top of the head. Some have horns or a swirl for a head with wavy lines for hair. I saw one that I’m convinced has a classic “alien” face. Hmmm. Then there’s the “new art.” In the base’s early years, people traveled out there unescorted so you can find things like “E=MC2” and even a car carved into one rock. This isn’t an “easy” tour. You have to jump through hoops to get there and the hike into the canyon involves some scrambling over rocks if you want to go the full distance. But like I said, it’s totally worth it.

How to go The Maturango Museum in Ridgecrest is in charge of the tours.

The tour involves some scrambling.

You can go to its website maturango.org/petroglyphtours to get on its email list, check out fall tour dates and read up on all the rules and forms required, or you can call 760-375-6900. Cost is $40 per person for non-museum members. Participants must be at the museum and ready to go by 6:30 a.m. the day of the tour so it might be best to get a hotel room in Ridgecrest the night before. Since 9/11, tours are open to U.S. citizens only.

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A combine unloads harvested wheat into a bankout wagon in Shafter. 84

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Small-scale Shafter farm keeps up with agricultural changes BY L AU RA L I E RA

PHOTOS

MARK NESSIA

s the 90-degree weather crept over Shafter before 10 a.m. on a recent summer day, Eli Espericueta wiped sweat off his forehead as he looked out into 160 acres of wheat. The smell of fresh-cut wheat drifted through the air as the combine transferred wheat to the bankout wagon. For any city person, the amount of

red wheat that was being harvested that day could have seemed like a lot, but as Espericueta put it, farmers are barely getting by. Espericueta, 36, runs Espericueta Farms Inc. with his father, Leroy, and they provide custom harvesting equipment services to local farmers. The family business started in 1980 when Leroy went

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An employee makes repairs to a cotton picker.

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Eli Espericueta

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into business for himself, repairing cottonharvesting machines. But the farm has felt a change in recent years. Eight years ago, Espericueta Farming Inc. was harvesting 3,500 acres of wheat. This year, the family farm will be lucky to harvest 1,700 acres of wheat for local farmers. “There isn’t much water so farmers are not planting wheat or they are growing other crops,” Espericueta said. When Espericueta returned to his hometown at the age of 28, after serving four years at West Point Military Academy and seven

August 2015

years in the U.S. Army, he had to learn everything there was about farming machinery. “My dad went through a health scare and we realized nobody knew anything about the farm,” he said. Espericueta immersed himself in the mechanic world. He took apart most of the machines at the repair shop and put them back together to learn about each equipment. “We bought pistachio machines without knowing anything about them so I dismantled them and I taught everyone else how to fix them,” Espericueta said. “We know every machine we own and work with extremely well.”

Family owned and operated since 1954!

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During the pistachio harvest season, Espericueta said they can have up to 16 sets of equipment out on the field. Pistachios and almonds are in high demand in California, hence the need for that particular equipment. Besides the machinery side of the business, Espericueta Farms has been producing table grapes, almonds and pistachios since 1996. When asked to share something that most people wouldn’t know about farmers, Espericueta said it was the risk-taking part of the job. “No matter what crop you grow, you are always going to take a lot of risks,” he said. “You leave it up to Mother Nature and God because you can’t control the weather.” Although Espericueta spends a lot of time on the farm, he finds the time to serve on the board of the Shafter City Council and volunteers as a wrestling coach at Shafter High School.

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Wool Growers Restaurant &

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A STROKE

SURVIVAL STORY “When I had my stroke, the first thing I did was pray. It’s no coincidence that the ambulance took me to San Joaquin Community Hospital.” - Terrance Minnoy, Stroke Survivor, with 6-year-old daughter, Taylor

Healthy 44-year-olds aren’t supposed to have strokes…at least, that’s what Terrance Minnoy thought. But there he was, paralyzed on the bedroom floor, phone just out of reach. Thankfully, his son heard dad’s mumbled cry and called 9-1-1. The EMTs quickly arrived and told Terrance they were taking him to San Joaquin Community Hospital – home to Kern County’s most experienced stroke team. Just 12 weeks later, Terrance is almost back to 100 percent and equally clear on his hospital of choice. “Stroke, heart attack or any other emergency…it doesn’t matter. SJCH is the only hospital I would go to.”

W H E N S E C O N D S C O U N T, N AT I O N A L LY- R E C O G N I Z E D E M E R G E N C Y C A R E I S S TA N D I N G B Y: s 4HE HOSPITAL CHOSEN BY MORE PEOPLE IN +ERN #OUNTY TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY care in critical situations s 4HE lRST HOSPITAL IN +ERN #OUNTY TO HAVE BOTH A (EART !TTACK 2ECEIVING #ENTER AND #ERTIlED 0RIMARY 3TROKE #ENTER UNDER THE SAME ROOF s ,IFE SAVING TECHNOLOGY DELIVERED BY AN EXPERIENCED MEDICAL TEAM

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Bakersfield Life Magazine

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CAPTURE Kern County IT’S NO SECRET

PHOTO BY STEVE RENGERS

that Kern County is ripe with breathtaking landscapes, memorable events and unforgettable people. What might not be well known is that talented area photographers capture these sights nearly every day. Capture Kern County showcases the best our county has to offer by the people who live and breathe it. It’s Kern County through your eyes.

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SUNRISE AFTER THE STORM

A westbound train makes its way through Cache Creek valley.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

The second annual Rock Cobbler cycling race

PHOTO BY PETER WOLLESEN

ROCK COBBLER

PHOTO BY WILLIAM STECK

The early morning sun shines on Lake Ming.

PHOTO BY NAVDEEP SINGH

SUNRISE

The seasonal flowers add vibrant color to the surrounding Arvin area.

PHOTO BY MIGUEL ANGEL PEREZ

WILD FLOWER LANDSCAPE

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FISHING IN THE HILLS Cutline

A man fishes on the Kern River. 94

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PHOTO BY STEVE RENGERS

One lone rig just doing its job with no supervision.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

LONE RIG

PHOTO BY JOVETTE CASTILLO

ITALIAN STREET PAINTING

Via Art will return to Bakersfield in October

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A cross section of Young Marines and other volunteers carry Old Glory across the field at the BC Freedom Festival July 4, 2013.

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All of us at Smith’s Bakeries wish to thank you for the opportunity, over the last 69 years, to prepare the best quality baked goods we know how to make. You expect us to use the best ingredients and our artisans enjoy the fact that baked goods made with a combination of their hands and hearts are still appreciated.

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Kern County’s Only Certified Master Baker

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(Inside Sully’s Chevron Station) 11400 Ming Ave. • 663-8611

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PHOTO BY WAYNE WONG

AS ONE!

End of the day

PHOTO BY LYNN MCDOUGAL

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PHOTO BY GAIL KLETT

FAMILY FUN!

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OUTLETS AT TEJON (661) 858-2425

SHAFTER 300 Lerdo Hwy. (661) 746-9244

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THEY’RE THE HIDDEN GEMS OF KERN COUNTY. SKIP THE LONG HOURS TRAVELING ON THE ROAD AND BE A TOURIST IN THESE QUAINT LOCAL TOWNS.

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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

The clouds passing over Isabella Lake make a nice scenic shot of the east side of the lake with the rocks in the foreground near Wofford Heights. bakersfieldlife.com

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Arvin

n 1907, people began buying property in the area that is now known as Arvin. It was named after Arvin Richardson, a merchant. In 1960, Arvin was incorporated into its city. Today, Arvin still holds onto its small-town atmosphere with about 20,000 residents calling the city their home. Crops such as grapes, cotton, potatoes, oranges and others complement the city’s agricultural character.

Marco’s Mexican Cuisine Marco’s Mexican Cuisine offers great food with reasonable prices. A local and former Padre Hotel kitchen intern, Marco Perez, founded the restaurant with his mother last year. Business is just starting to pick up for the restaurant. One of the most popular dishes are the shrimp tacos made with homemade tortillas and a special chipotle sauce. • 132 Bear Mountain Blvd. • 661-390-9902

Arvin Wildflower Festival One of Arvin’s biggest festivals is the Arvin Wildflower Festival. It started in 1978 and is now approaching its 38th anniversary. The festival offers live music, arts and crafts, and more. Admission is free for this family-friendly event. • Smotherman Park, 890 Walnut Drive • 661-854-2265

Traditional Christmas parade

• 661-854-2265 • arvinchamberofcommerce.com

Chinese Garden One of Arvin’s most popular restau-

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Using a tripod to keep his camera steady, Willie Enns photographs the wildflowers on Highway 223 between Arvin and Highway 58.

August 2015

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Arvin gets in the holiday spirit every year with an annual Christmas parade. The Christmas parade takes place every year on the first Monday of December. Admission to the parade is free.

rants is Chinese Garden. It’s the perfect place for a midday lunch. It offers a variety of Asian cuisines and serves Szechuan, Mandarin and Cantonese style cooking keeping locals going back for the past seven years. • 120 Bear Mountain Blvd. • 661-855-2018

Bakersfield’s premiere family owned and operated Hearing Aid Center.

Mi Expresso Cafe stands out as one of Arvin’s local coffee cafes. Equipped with unique drinks and great food, it has become a great place for people to hang out and relax. It’s an Internet cafe so Wi-Fi and computers (reserved for kids with student IDs) are available. Raspados – shaved iced drinks with natural fruit flavoring – are one of the

• 1017 Bear Mountain Blvd., Suite B • 661-390-4902

Easter Sunrise Service Since the early 1900s, people from around Kern County have been gathering around Bear Mountain – 5 miles east of Arvin – at a huge white cross that stands in the middle of the mountain. People have been gathering there every Easter to watch the sunrise. It has become a tradition and more so a staple. • White Wolf Grade

salon I spa

The Easter Sunrise Service on the rocky hill with a cross, along State Highway 223 on the way to Arvin from Highway 58, draws about 300 worshippers every year.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Mi Expresso Cafe

unique drinks offered at the cafe. Prices are consumer-friendly with the most expensive drink costing $3.

At Wall’s Hearing Aid Center, we’ve been helping the community hear better since 1946. Bakersﬁeld residents come to us because they know they’ll get the personal care, attentive service, and advanced solutions they need to improve their hearing — and quality of life.

Call to schedule your FREE screening and hearing evaluation today!

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Bakersfield

n 1858, Col. Thomas Baker, along with a handful of other families, trickled down past the El Tejon Pass in search of a permanent settlement. It turns out the small caravan was interested in something much more valuable than gold; it was looking for a new home to establish roots. Today, Bakersfield has nearly 370,000 residents. However, if you include metropolitan Bakersfield, the number of locals grows to half a million, according to city figures.

Basque Food Noriega Restaurant and Hotel, Benji’s French Basque Restaurant and Wool Growers Restaurant are among the popular Basque restaurants in Bakersfield. Basque meals are multicourse feasts served family style that Bakersfield visitors and residents must experience. • Seven locations in Bakersfield • www.visitbakersfield.com/ visitors/eat/bakersfieldbasque

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

Basque food, served family style, at Wool Growers Restaurant. 106

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The neon Fox Theater signs stands out at dusk Wednesday evening downtown. The 85-year-old theater is a downtown Bakersfield icon.

August 2015

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

PHOTO BY JOHN HARTE

The Crystal Palace is the go-to spot for live country music and good food. The Sunday brunch has an omelet bar that offers a variety of toppings as well as a

Dagny’s is popular with local college students.

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

waffle bar and other brunch choices. The venue also houses a museum with many displays, including Buck Owens’ personal items, such as his famous guitars, suits and even his Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame award. • 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. • 661-328-7560

Valley Plaza The Valley Plaza Mall opened in 1967 and has since expanded. With more than 140 stores and anchor tenants that include Forever 21, Target, Sears, JCPenney and Macy’s, the selections are nearly infinite. The mall also holds a 16-screen movie theater owned by Reading Cinemas.

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is one of Bakersfield’s premier live music venues.

a dense collection of historical and cultural artifacts and nearly 60 historic buildings. In fact, the museum has been collecting historical and cultural artifacts of California history since the late 1920s, according to its website. The Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center as well as the familiar Beale Memorial Clock are nestled at the museum. • 3801 Chester Ave. • 661-437-3330

Downtown Bakersfield From trendy cafes and art galleries to familiar bars and pubs, downtown Bakersfield is occupied by dozens of small locally owned businesses, including Mama Roomba and Muertos Kitchen & Lounge – both of which were featured on the Food Network. • www.bakersfielddba.com • 661-325-5892

Dagny’s Coffee Company

Kern County Museum

Established in 2007, Dagny’s Coffee Company is a locally owned coffeehouse located at the corner of 20th and Eye streets. Dagny’s offers freshbrewed coffee, delightful cookies and cakes, and refreshing drinks like the mudslide and iced coffees. It has a perfect throwback area and patio bistro style great for catching up with friends, writing or relaxing.

Founded in 1941, the 16acre Kern County Museum has

• 1600 20th St. • 661-634-0806

• 2701 Ming Ave. • 661-832-2436

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PHOTO BY GREG NICHOLS

Delano

ounded on July, 14, 1869, as a railroad town, Delano earned its name from the Southern Pacific Railroad in honor of Columbus Delano. In the late 1800s, the Ohio man served as the U.S. secretary of the interior. As part of its history, the city of Delano has served as a hub for farmworker organization and Chicano movement efforts, including the United Farm Workers union, led by the late Cesar Chavez and Filipino organizer Larry Itliong.

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don’t feel like driving to Las Vegas to scratch your gambling itch? Take a short drive and make a stop at The Aviator Casino in Delano. The casino’s 14,000-square-foot gaming space features 15 tables where you can play poker, blackjack and other casino games. Hungry? Enjoy a burger or maybe a New York strip steak. Open 24 hours. • 1225 Airport Drive • 661-721-7770

Lake Woollomes Pack a few sandwiches, spray on some sunscreen and enjoy a picnic at Lake Woollomes, just 3 miles

August 2015

Jasmine School located at the Delano Heritage Park Museum southeast of Delano. There are 41 picnic tables with benches, 30 barbecue grills and a group food preparation space. The lake even has a boat dock and launching ramp for your sailboat, rowboat or canoe.

• Southeast of Delano • 661-868-7000

Delano Municipal Golf Course Warm up at the driving range before you hit the nine-hole golf course in

PHOTO COURTESY OF DELANO HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Aviator Casino features a 14,000square-foot gaming area and restaurant.

Delano. Rates are reasonable and if you get hungry, stop by the snack bar and enjoy a hot dog and cold refreshments. • 104 S. Lexington St. • 661-725-7527

Fil Bake Shop specializes in authentic Filipino baked goods.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FIL BAKE SHOP

El Huarache Loco Located in the heart of Delano on Main Street, this new restaurant is gaining attention. You can find mouthwatering carne asada fries or its signature huarache – a doughy tortilla topped with meat, lettuce, tomatoes and zesty sauce – on its menu. • 1127 Main St. • 661-720-6170

Delano Heritage Park Museum Learn more about the his-

tory of Delano. The 45-minute tour will take you through historical buildings like the Jasmine School – Delano’s first school built in 1916. Check out the museum during Christmas when volunteers decorate all five buildings in Christmas lights. • 330 S. Lexington St. • 661-725-6730

Fil Bake Shop This Filipino bakery was voted best bakery in Delano last year by the community. Its signature ladyfingers, puff rolls, pandesal, among others, have people everywhere visiting Delano to try its exquisite baked goods. It’s your Filipino doughnut shop stop. • 441 Cecil Ave. • 661-725-6370

BAKERSFIELD’S MUSIC DEALER for more than 37 years • Pianos and Keyboards • Band Instruments/ Rentals • Music Lessons • Acoustic/Electric Guitars • Piano Moving/Tuning • Repair Department • Sheet Music 100 Oak Street (corner of Oak/Stockdale) 327-5397 • californiakeyboards.com

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Mount Pinos offers beautiful hiking areas and great views of the San Joaquin and Antelope valleys.

Frazier Park

he first settlement in the area of the future Frazier Park was a summer village of the Chumash Indian people. Located in a magnificent oak grove, it was at the base of the mountain they called “Toshololo” (Frazier Park). Toshololo was one of the two holy mountains of this region. The next influence to the future of the area was the Frazier brothers, who in 1870 established a profitable gold mine on the south slope of the mountain that would soon bear their name. 110

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Fishing With nearly 20 different creeks near Frazier Park, you can find rainbow and brook trout, redear sunfish, smallmouth bass, white bass, perch and bigmouth buffalo.

Ridge Route Communities Museum This little spot in Frazier Park is sometimes overlooked by most people. But given the number of artifacts, photos and information it has, it gives visitors a

August 2015

full-museum experience in a pint-sized place. The museum has a variety of objects belonging to early pioneers, as well as a wealth of historic photographs of the area at no cost to visitors. • 3515 Park Drive • 661-245-7747

Caveman Cavey’s Pizza In the mood for a bacon cheeseburger pizza or homemade lasagna? This pizza place on the hill is raved about by locals – some even call it a Frazier Park treasure.

Its homemade sauce kicks up its dishes one notch. You can expect the same great taste and atmosphere every time you visit — be it two days or two years apart. • 3620 Mount Pinos Way • 661-245-1474

Mount Pinos It’s all about the scenery. Climb 8,000 feet in elevation at Mount Pinos and you’ll get incredible views of the San Joaquin Valley and Antelope Valley from various vantage points. Whether you decide to hike or mountain

Piru Creek is one of the nearly 20 fishable creeks near Frazier Park.

bike your way to the top, you’ll feel close to Mother Nature, especially next to Jeffery pines. This area is also considered one of the best star gazing locations in California due to its extremely low pollution and clear skies. • 34580 Lockwood Valley Road • 661-245-3731

The American Jousting Alliance Become a knight for a day or learn spear throwing at this hidden Frazier Park treasure. Make an appointment for you and your family to learn different medieval times games like

archery and jousting. Or go horseback riding and enjoy scenic trails.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO PHOTO COURTESY OF CAOPENSPACE.ORG

The American Jousting Alliance stages live, medieval jousting tournaments.

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Coffee Cantina With espresso drinks that locals claim beat Starbucks and homemade sandwiches, burritos and French toast, you won’t regret the short two-mile drive from the I-5. With freshly baked muffins and pastries every day, this hidden spot in the mountains is a tucked away gem. • 3011 Mount Pinos Way • 661-245-3166

Botox • Juvederm • Voluma • Viora • Phentermine • Fatbuster • CoolScuplting • Laser Hair • Skin Resurfacing • B12 Injections 661-617-6101 • 1500 Haggin Oaks, Suite 100 Dr. Gregory Klis, M.D. April Cooper, R.N. • Tasha Brown, R.N. • Debbie Alteparmakian, R.N. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and CareCredit www.skinsationmedispa.com

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Snow covers the mountains above Lake Isabella.

Lake Isabella

Nelda’s Diner The self-proclaimed “home of legendary shakes, burgers and everything else” is a great place to enjoy a nice meal anytime of the day. Food ranges from traditional burgers and sandwiches to 112

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the more lavish seafood and steak dishes and daily specials. • 5128 Lake Isabella Blvd. • 760-379-8448

Packsaddle Trail If you’re looking to go on a scenic hike through the backcountry of the Kern River Valley, the Packsaddle Trail is the attraction for you. Located 15 miles north of Kernville, this 4.8-mile hike takes you up and down the Kern Canyon to the Rincon Trail, through the Packsaddle Creek and into a historic limestone cave. • The trail is 15 miles north of Kernville off of highway 99 on the west side of the river • 760-376-3781 (Kernville Ranger Station)

August 2015

A view of the Kern River from Packsaddle Trail.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

he town of Lake Isabella was founded in 1893 by a gold rush prospector named Steven Barton. It was named in honor of Queen Isabella of Spain, who financed Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage in 1492. The town is popular for hikers, boaters, hunters and kayakers and has also become a popular camping destination for Southern California residents.

LEAD TO SaVOR

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

Remington Hot Springs is a hidden gem on the Kern River.

ALL ROADS SEPT. 24-27 2015

Chefs

Mary Sue Milliken

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

James Siao

One of the many authentically furnished rooms at Silver City Ghost Town.

Silver City Ghost Town Ready to experience the spookiest old ghost town this side of the Mississippi? Once closed for over 15 years, the Silver City Ghost Town is now open yearround as a museum for both Old West and ghost town enthusiasts alike. • 3829 Lake Isabella Blvd. • 760-379-5146

Ewing’s on the Kern Located high above the Kern River lies a quaint restaurant that provides a spectacular dining experience for those looking for a bite to eat with a beautiful

view. Ewing’s on the Kern offers a variety of dishes, a fully stocked bar and live entertainment on the weekends, making it an ideal spot for people of all ages.

• 49 Big Blue Road • 760-376-6683

• 125 Buena Vista Drive • 760-376-2411

Along the lower stretch of the Kern River, the Remington Hot Springs is a natural primitive hot tub that many call a hidden gem in the Kern River Valley. Everyone from mountain bikers to hikers to campers have discovered Remington to be a relaxing spot to kick back and relax with friends and family while enjoying the view of the big river.

Kern Valley Museum For those looking for more of a traditional museum that showcases collections and exhibits regarding the history of the Kern River Valley, the Kern Valley Museum should definitely be on your list. With hundreds of artifacts and memorabilia, there is plenty to see and do at this celebrated Kern Valley attraction.

Remington Hot Springs

• Located west of Lake Isabella off the Remington Trail • 760-376-3781 (Kernville Ranger Station)

Margo True

Frank Pellegrino Hosted by Visit San Luis Obispo County and the editors of Sunset Magazine, Sunset SAVOR the Central Coast boasts wine, beer and food tastings, celebrity and master chef demonstrations, live music and more at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Hit the road for San Luis Obispo County for the ultimate culinary road trip. Book your stay today!

TICKETS & SCHEDULE SaVORCENTRALCOAST COM bakersfieldlife.com

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THINKSTOCK.COM

The Wild Horse and Burro facility, just outside Ridgecrest, is home to 500 to 700 wild mustangs.

Ridgecrest

idgecrest is an anchor in the northeastern corner of the county, sitting at the edge the Mojave Desert in the Indian Wells Valley, according to city of Ridgecrest records. The Kawaiisu Indians once made their lives on the land before the arrival of nonnatives in 1826. At the time, Jedediah Smith and a group of American beaver trappers moved into the area, city records show. The region experienced a mining boom between the 1860s and 1890s. In the 1880s, the Central Pacific Railroad in the Owens Valley relied on the labor force of Chinese labor114

Bakersfield Life Magazine

ers, who briefly settled nearby (their presence may have influenced the name “China Lake”). More settlers arrive at the turn of the century, including Robert and James Crum who started up a dairy around 1910. The small community that developed around the dairy by late 1912 was known as “Crumville.” However, Ridgecrest received its official name via community vote in 1941 and incorporated as a city in 1963.

Wild Horse and Burro Holding Facility

August 2015

With a head count of 500

to 700 wild mustangs, the holding facility is popular for its insight on wildlife preserve. Facility staff suggests you bring a bag of carrots to see them up close. • 3647-A Randsburg Wash Road • 800-951-8720

Historical Society of the Upper Mojave Desert The venue provides guests with information about the history of Ridgecrest. It also hosts events, such as concerts, and features Disney movie nights occasionally. • 230 W. Ridgecrest Blvd.

• 760-375-8456

Maturango Museum The museum includes art exhibits, which are open to the public, including the open studio tour. Petroglyph tours are held in the fall and spring. • 100 E. Las Flores Ave. • 760-375-6900

U.S. Naval Museum of Armament and Technology If you love military history, then this museum is a place for you. The China Lake

museum offers a rich history of naval aircraft, weapons systems and technology. However, because the museum is located on a naval base, visitors must have an official form of government ID. • 1 Pearl Harbor Drive • 760-939-3530 • chinalakemuseum.org

The Maturango Museum conducts petroglyph tours in the spring and fall.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Casey’s Steaks and Barbecue Casey’s Steaks and Barbecue is an Indian Wells Valley landmark. Recognized for its deliciousness, Casey’s barbecue sauces include The Original and The Heater, both gluten

free. Its appetizer lineup includes the beer-battered zucchini, deep-fried pickle spears and its famous Eddie’s Bases Loaded french fries. • 1337 N. China Lake Blvd. • 760-446-8000

Kerr McGee Center The Kerr McGee Center offers summer programs and swim lessons. The fitness room is set up for different activities, such as karate, Zumba, self-defense classes and aerobics. • 100 W. California Ave. • 760-499-5151

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTOPHER HUTH

Rosamond

he town of Rosamond initially started out as a settlement named “Sand Creek” in the 1870s. From the 1890s to the early 1900s, the town became popular for gold miners due to the Lida Mine producing a significant amount of ore. In 1942, the nearby Muroc Dry Lake was turned into what is now called Edwards Air Force Base, turning Rosamond into a hub for military flight-testing and research.

Willow Springs International Raceway

United States, this historic raceway has been around for more than half a century. Offering several different options for people of all ages, Willow Springs will take care of your need for speed, with your choice of high-speed carts, formula cars or even your own car. • 3500 75th St. West • 661-256-6666

Exotic Feline Breeding Compound’s Feline Conservation Center (the Cat House)

One of the oldest permanent racing tracks in the 116

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August 2015

Both a breeding zoo and

The Space Shuttle Endeavour at Edwards Air Force Base in 2012. research facility for endangered felines, the Cat House is a nonprofit compound that offers an unique experience for visitors. Unlike zoos, it has no moats between you and the animals, providing an up close and personal interaction with exotic felines.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Willow Springs Raceway is a 2.5-mile, nine-turn road circuit that opened in 1953.

• 3718 60th St. West • 661-256-3793

Wayside Cafe Voted one of the best cafes in southern Kern County since 1955, the Wayside Cafe is sure to excite your taste buds. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner,

its menu consists of a rich variety of all-American classics, such as biscuits and gravy, tuna melts and even the renowned New York steak. • 2835 Sierra Highway • 661-256-3437

rants in Rosamond, Ramon’s is an excellent choice for those looking for moderately priced Mexican food. With the addition of a fully stocked bar and a family-friendly staff, Ramon’s has everything you need for an enjoyable dining experience.

Edwards Air Force Base

• 1431 W. Rosamond Blvd., #9 • 661-256-4602

Playing one of the most significant roles in the development of aircraft for the Air Force, Edwards Air Force Base has been the leading tester of military aircraft and aviation breakthroughs since World War II. Located next to Roger’s Dry Lake, the large landing area and preferred year-round weather provides the base with optimal conditions to conduct flighttesting.

Danny McKeever’s Fast Lane Racing School

• Edwards AFB, CA 93524 • 661-277-1110

Ramon’s Mexican Restaurant Rated one of the best restau-

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

An Amur leopard shows its teeth at the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound in Rosamond.

Also operating at the Willow Springs International Raceway, Fast Lane Racing School is a top-accredited program that offers training in high-performance driving and advanced road racing techniques. The official racing school of Toyota for nearly 20 years can now be your opportunity to receive world-class instruction by someone who has been teaching professionally since 1967. • Willow Springs Raceway • 888-948-4888

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Buena Vista Golf Course offers beautiful views of the southern San Joaquin Valley.

Taft

West Kern Oil Museum Taft, like many other 118

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small towns in California, was built on oil. If you’ve ever wondered how Taft went from a dumping ground to one of the richest oil-producing towns in the country, the West Kern Oil Museum will tickle that fancy and then some. • 1168 Wood St. • 661-765-6664

Fort Preservation Society What was originally built to accommodate government offices in the 1940s is now a historical landmark that is used for weddings, civic and social events. With auditoriums, gazebos and even an old jail, the Fort Preservation Society is an excellent choice for those looking to throw an event

August 2015

with some historical flair. • 915 N. 10th St., Suite 2 • 661-765-7371

Oasis Restaurant and Night Club The Oasis Restaurant and Night Club is the place to be for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even some late night entertainment. With an allAmerican, traditional-style menu and a vast array of entertainment, the Oasis the place to grab a bite and hang out with friends and family. • 414 North St. • 661-765-5188

Buena Vista Golf Course For many, Buena Vista Golf Course is the best choice to play some golf,

The Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation area is a popular fishing spot.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

hat originally started as a place to unload material for the oil fields is now the town we call Taft, then known as Siding No. 2. As the oil fields began to grow, this location grew popular and thus businesses began to spring up. By 1910, the city and chamber were incorporated and the town adopted the name of the post office, Taft, as its own. To this day, the Taft-Midway Sunset field continues to tower over the lower 48 states in oil production and is considered the third-leading oil producer in the United States.

have a nice meal and enjoy some Southern California greenery. Located amid an oasis of pines and palms, the course is both challenging and beautiful. • 10256 Golf Course Road • 661-398-9720

Oil-related artifacts from Taft’s past on display at the West Kern Oil Museum.

Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area

• 13601 Ironbark Road • 661-868-7000

Located on Lake Webb and Lake Evans, the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area is the perfect place to go camping with friends and family in Taft. With more than 160 tent and RV camping spots and access to picnic areas and two lakes that allow boating, fishing and even water skiing, this is an aquatic playground for kids and adults alike.

Skydive Taft

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Taft Oildorado Days is a 10-day celebration, running from October 9-18, 2015. Every five years Oildorado pays homage to the hardy men and women who migrated to this southwestern corner of the San Joaquin Valley.

Ever dreamed of free falling from thousands of feet in the air? Skydive Taft can make that dream a reality. With amazing views over the Southern Californian desert, there’s no place closer to fulfill your thirst for thrills.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Grand Parade Melodrama Civic Luncheon Queen Pageant And Luncheon Car Show And Cruise Carnival Aircraft Exhibit And Fly In Class Reunions Concerts Food And Craft Vendors Varsity & Alumni Football Games Oilfield Skills Competition Hot Air Balloon Festival Whiskerino Beard Contest West Kern Petroleum Summit Oilstock: A 3-day Music Festival

For more info 661.319.5804 oildorado@yahoo.com www.taftoildorado.com SPONSORED BY

• 500 Airport Road • 661-765-5867

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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

The Tehachapi Mountain Festival attracts 30,000 to 40,000 people.

Tehachapi

Windswept Ranch A peaceful, natural environment for animals of all kinds. Primarily used as a rehabilitation or retirement center for rescued animals, the ranch allows visitors to 120

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interact with exotic species, such as zebras, reindeer and camels, in a relaxed, familyfriendly atmosphere. • Call for directions • 661-809-3965

Tehachapi Mountain Festival The annual Tehachapi Mountain Festival takes place Aug. 15-16 and is the city’s largest festival, attracting an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 people. It’s also one of the oldest, providing family fun for the community for 52 years. The festival offers food, drinks and live music along with attractions like parades, car shows, quilt shows, obstacle courses and 5-mile run. • 209 E. Tehachapi Blvd.

August 2015

• 661-822-4180

Kohnen’s Country Bakery Serving authentic German pastries, Kohnen’s Country Bakery, is one of the many ethnic restaurants in Tehachapi. Kohnen’s Bakery has been cooking up culture since 2004. Popular by word of mouth, the bakery is known for its cakes, Danish pastries and eclairs. • 125 W. Tehachapi Blvd., #D • 661-822-3350

Hitching Post Theaters Hitching Post Theaters is the hangout spot for teenagers and most local residents. The theater has only four screens but contains a

PHOTO COURTESY OF WINDSWEPT RANCH

ehachapi was founded in 1854 but the first known people to occupy the area were the American Indians known as the Kawaiisu. The town was known for its limestone findings in the areas where gold was thought to be located. Before becoming the town it is today, it suffered an earthquake of 7.7 that caused severe damage in 1952. Today, Tehachapi is known for its great and relaxed climate.

Zoe and Ziva put their heads together to come up with fun things to do at Windswept Ranch.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Kohnen’s Country Bakery boasts, “every batch made from scratch.”

Kelcy’s Restaurant has been a mainstay of downtown Tehachapi since 1969.

PHOTO BY SUSAN BURT

the club for leaders For more than 63 years, Petroleum Club remains the premier location for unobtrusive business meetings to social gatherings with good friends, family, and colleagues while featuring exquisite dining, impeccable service, astounding views, and plenty of style in an exclusive setting far above the rest. JUNIOR EXECUTIVE MEMBERSHIP

Designed for members between 18 and 34 years of age.

only $55 per month FEATURING

list of unique snacks, such as beef jerky and freshly baked cookies. It also hosts movie events, like the upcoming “Harry Potter” movie marathon showing in late August to September. • 201 S. Green St. • 661-823-7469

Kelcy’s Restaurant Kelcy’s Restaurant is one of the oldest and most historic cafes in Tehachapi. Feeding the community since 1969, the cafe serves genuine country food and family dining with a menu that features the same items as when it first opened. One of the most popular dishes is the

homemade biscuits and gravy. Memorabilia of early Tehachapi covers the walls. • 110 W. Tehachapi Blvd. • 661-822-4207

Exquisite First Class Dining, Sky Bar Cocktail Lounge, Private Gym and Lockers, Banquet/Event Rooms, Meeting Rooms, Reciprocal Membership Access to Rio Bravo Country Club and Bakersfield Racquet Club, and nearly 170 Clubs Worldwide.

Downtown art There are several murals located at the heart of Tehachapi (downtown) that are prefect for visitors to learn about the town’s historic culture. The murals beautify and capture the essence of city. It guides anyone who strolls past the murals through a quick Tehachapi history lesson. The murals are located all over Main Street Tehachapi.

For membership information visit ThePetroleumClub.com. To schedule a tour, call 324-6561.

• Downtown Tehachapi

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Wasco

asco dates back to 1897 when the Santa Fe Railroad laid tracks through the region. During the next several years, more than 300 families settled in the area, primarily through arrangements made by land developer Marshall V. Hartranft. The post office recorded the town name of Wasco in 1900. Cotton was introduced in the year 1918, and the city was finally incorporated in 1945.

Hoyett’s Sandwich Shop This is the home of the best char burgers and chili in town since 1948. The cozy restaurant will not only serve you mouthwatering food but it will also give you a chance to talk to locals. Chat about the history of Wasco while you enjoy a tri-tip sandwich or vegetable beef stew with homemade cornbread. • 727 6th St. • 661-758-2065

Festival of Roses Considered one of the largest producers of roses in the world, Wasco dedicates three days every year to celebrate the colorful flowers — Sept. 10-12. The festival begins with the Rose Queen pageant followed by family fun activities like rose field tours, a pancake breakfast, a barn dance, an art show and a children’s rose show.

Hong Kong Restaurant Cooking up Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine, this local eatery is one to check out on your next 122

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A tractor works in a field of garden roses in Wasco. August 2015

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

• Barker Park, 1280 Poplar Ave. • 661-758-3081

An undated photo of 7th Street at the Wasco Historical Society Museum.

visit to Wasco. With an all-youcan-eat lunch buffet, it’s no wonder why people keep going back. Locals can’t get enough of the pot stickers, Hong Kongstyle chow mein, and salt and pepper shrimp. • 918 5th St. • 661-758-2181

Wasco Historical Society Museum Take a look at Wasco in the 1930s, as you glance over a selection of photos that will take you back in time. Besides photos, the museum has a collection of old dentist equipment and an antique kitchen area you can admire. • 1800 Shamrock Court • 661-477-0372

Delirium Haunted House During Halloween, Wasco

Est. 1975

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

A coyote on the hunt at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge.

40 Years

gets spooky. The season for screams and chills attracts fright seekers from around Kern County. Delirium started out as a two-person scare on a small porch back in 2006. There are now more than 2,000 square feet of haunted space where you’re sure to scream!

23 YEARS

EST. 1992

• 10811 Corcoran Road • 661-725-2767

Kern National Wildlife Refuge Complex This refuge is one of a few remaining wetlands left in the area. It provides an optimum wintering habitat for migratory birds but you can spot a variety of different animals at the complex. From coyotes to California kingsnakes, you’re sure to spot a few critters. • 912-A 7th St. • 661-758-3338

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118 Years

Est. 1897

76 Years

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We Look Forward To Offering You The Best Quality Food & Service. 2 Locations

631-18th Street • 327-3861 • 5601 California Ave. • 327-5201

EST. 1962

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Bakersfield Life Magazine

August 2015

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Est. 1964

DESIGN CONSULTATION • FURNITURE • PLANTATION SHUTTERS • RE-UPHOLSTERY DRAPERY • WALLPAPER/MURALS • CARPET • HARD SURFACE • ACCESSORIES

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Serving Kern County for over 56 years Thanking Kern County residents for their business and pledging our continued support of our community and customers. • Steel Service Center • Vineyard and Orchard Supplies • New and Used Pipe • Livestock Equipment • Agricultural & Iron Fencing FREE Local Deliveries Available

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Business Profile

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

COLDWELL BANKER PREFERRED What gets you most excited about Coldwell Banker Preferred? The level of professionalism and commitment our agents bring to the real estate industry. They are committed to constantly evolving and expanding their knowledge of the market. This results in a higher level of service and overall experience for our clients and customers. Another recent and progressive decision was to streamline our operations into two strategically located offices – the northwest office on Coffee Road and our Ming Avenue location near the Marketplace. This unprecedented consolidation shows our commitment to a more efficient and focused business energy. What is the founding concept behind Coldwell Banker Preferred? To exceed the expectation of buyers and sellers who work with our company; to provide a onestop shop experience for all of their real estate needs; and to create an atmosphere where our agents are proud to bring their 126

Bakersfield Life Magazine

clients and customers – an office environment where their needs are met by a professional and friendly staff. We provide our agents with state-of-the-art programs, ongoing advanced training and tools necessary to excel in a very competitive industry. The owners of our company are natives of Bakersfield with strong ties to this community. It’s that reputation and history that sets us apart from the rest of the industry. Where do you see Coldwell Banker Preferred five years from now? The leader in the real estate industry, continuing to set the standard for ourselves, our agents and the community we serve. To be the champions for private property rights, closely aligned with our local Association of Realtors®, as well as the state and local associations. Holding true to the code of ethics and aggressively participating in threats that may impact private property rights and the benefits of home ownership. August 2015

If I am looking for a real estate company to hire, why should I choose Coldwell Banker Preferred? Anyone can claim to be the best. In a world of ratings, referrals and recommendations, you need proof of success. There is no more recognizable or trusted name in the world of real estate than Coldwell Banker. Go to the best, ask for the best and expect the best. Our reputation extends beyond the boundaries of Bakersfield or even Kern County. The Coldwell Banker brand is respected worldwide. This insures maximum exposure globally. No other company has access to the resources, national and international contacts that can be offered by Coldwell Coldwell Banker Banker Preferred. Preferred From the moment a person thinks of buy3820 Coffee Road, Suite 1 ing or selling real 661-616-3600 estate, until the day escrow closes, we have 9100 Ming Ave., Suite 100 the skills, services and 661-836-2345 means to ensure a www.cbbakersfield.com successful transaction. It’s what we do.

How does your company measure its success in the real estate industry? Through the people who place their trust in us. Our agents are our greatest asset. Through them we have an overwhelming amount of repeat business. This is home; in our business we represent our friends, neighbors and family. With that comes huge responsibility but also overwhelming rewards. We have agents who have built relationships that span over 30 years. That speaks volumes about who we are as a company, who our agents are as professionals and why we have been privileged to serve this community for generations.

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Business Profile

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RODEO DRIVE PLASTIC SURGERY Rodeo Drive Plastic Surgery has served people from its ultra-prime location on the famed shopping street for more than 10 years. Now, the renowned center has opened an office in Bakersfield. Medical Rodeo Drive Director Dr. Lloyd Plastic Surgery Krieger, who was 2800 F St. educated at Stan661-846-2776 ford University www.rodeodriveplasticand did his plastic surgery.com/bakersfield surgery training at UCLA, will personally be seeing patients in Bakersfield. “We always have had many patients come to our Beverly Hills office from Bakersfield,” Krieger said. “It just made sense to make things easier for people and start providing services where all of 128

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August 2015

these people live and work. This will save so many of our patients the drive into Los Angeles.” Krieger specializes in cosmetic body procedures, including tummy tuck, liposuction, the Rodeo Drive butt lift, breast augmentation and facial procedures, including facelift, rhinoplasty and eyelid lift. He also performs reconstructive surgery, such as umbilical hernia repair, breathing surgery or septoplasty, and breast reduction surgery. His groundbreaking work has garnered worldwide media coverage. Krieger and his center have been featured on Access Hollywood, CNBC, National Public Radio, Univision, Fortune, US, Star, InTouch Weekly, Elle, USA Today, Los Angeles Magazine and The Los Angeles Times. Many of the stories have focused on Krieger’s natural-looking results and minimal pain plastic surgery. International media continuously feature stories about the center with reporters and film crews from England, Japan, Denmark, Switzerland and France among many others.

Because of this international attention, patients travel to Rodeo Drive’s flagship location from throughout the world. Recent patients have come from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Dubai, Germany, Russia, France, England, Korea, China, Australia, Mexico and Brazil. They come for such procedures as the “Rodeo Drive mommy makeover,” which includes a tummy tuck with Krieger’s specialized “Rodeo Drive belly button.” “We are delighted to bring our Beverly Hills celebrity-style service to Bakersfield plastic surgery in the Central Valley,” Krieger said. People can make an appointment for their plastic surgery consultation by calling 846-2776 or visiting RodeoDrivePlasticSurgery.com/Bakersfield.

Rodeo Drive Plastic Surgery 421 N. Rodeo Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210

2800 F Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301 • 661.846.2776 • www.RodeoDrivePlasticSurgery.com/Bakersfield bakersfieldlife.com

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People & Community

BUSINESS PROFILE

CHADDICK & WILLIAMS DEVELOPMENT Who is Chaddick Williams Development? With over 45 years of combined experience in the homebuilding and real estate field the management team at Chaddick & Williams Development (CWD) and Chaddick Williams Realty (CWR) is pleased to announce their new services to the Bakersfield area. Seasoned professionals and founders Carrie Williams and Jeff Chaddick established CWD in 2013 as a full-service real estate investment company specializing in the acquisition and development of residential properties in the Bakersfield area. Not shortly after, Chaddick and Williams developed their full-service real estate company, Chaddick Williams Realty- providing professional and courteous service for those buying or selling a home. Our Team Carrie Williams is co-Founder and co-CEO of Chaddick & Williams Development Corporation and Chaddick Williams Realty. Ms. Williams has an extensive background in acquisition negotiations, preacquisition due diligence, project management, entitlement processing, land development and construction management and new home product development. In her role as co-CEO of Chaddick & Williams Development, Ms. Williams manages the daily operations, marketing, sales, finances and land acquisition, pre-acquisition due diligence, entitlement processing and management of Chaddick Williams Realty. Her professional experience and knowledge enables Williams to target all aspects of sales and marketing that ensures her clients of a successful transaction. She believes in the highest level of client services, i.e., people, location, information and strong work ethic in developing a strong client relationship.

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Jeff Chaddick is co-Founder and co-CEO of Chaddick & Williams Development Corporation and manages all aspects of construction, land development, purchasing, and customer service. He is responsible for the ongoing review and improvements of construction methods, materials, pricing, quality control, and customer service. Chaddick approaches each project, associate and client with the highest level of integrity. His professional, yet engaging character provides a trusting relationship. Darren Williams is Broker for Chaddick Williams Realty and has a stellar background in new home sales with McMillin Homes. As part of Williams’ sales team Darlene Wiegel, Sales Associate, is committed to investing the time, energy, talent, and resources needed to provide the finest possible service available in the industry. Our Services Chaddick Williams Development is pleased to be offering many exciting services to the Bakersfield area for example; quality custom home design and construction, start to finish solutions for your additions and remodel needs, as well as backyard improvements to include space design and development. Chaddick Williams Realty will provide the professional and courteous service you deserve during this complex

August 2015

transaction. You’ll find timely preparation of the documents, impeccable customer service and competitive pricing. Chaddick Williams Realty is currently managing the builder closeout for Cornerstone Communities at Sanibel at Bridgeton in Northwest Bakersfield and invites you to visit this beautiful neighborhood before they’re all sold out. Sanibel is open Saturday and Sunday from 12-4, Monday and Friday 10-5. Our Commitment CWD’s aim is to add value for our customers and the community through a commitment to excellence in quality product and service. As we continue to build our business in Bakersfield, we will utilize the same mix of innovative designs, master-crafted construction, property management and community commitment.

Chaddick Williams Development, Inc. 661-599-2433 chaddickwilliamsrealty.com Sanibel: 661-391-2779 Hours: Sat. and Sun., 12-4 Mon. and Fri., 10-5

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People & Community

BUSINESS PROFILE

CLEAN WATER SOLUTIONS How many years has Clean Water Solutions been in the pool industry? We have been in the pool industry business since 1977, servicing and repairing more than 500 residential and commercial pools a week. Doug Kerber, the owner, expanded the business in 1985 to pool construction, building high-end quality pools and commercial fountains throughout central and Clean Water Southern California. Solutions With water being a 4320 Armour Ave. valuable resource, 661-444-1303 Doug Kerber has now www.cleanwateradded water conservasolutionsca.com tion to the services it provides. At Clean Water Solutions, we use reverse osmosis to remove unwanted contaminants from pools and fountains without draining water

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August 2015

from the structures, saving millions of gallons of water. What makes Clean Water Solutions unique? Conserving water is necessary in the Central Valley and Central Coast. The days where homeowners used to drain out the water from their pools regularly and refill it with fresh water are long gone. At Clean Water Solutions, we offer a no-drain filtration system. In this process, all of the water from the pool is run through a mobile filtration unit and the water is then diverted back into the pool. Although this service is slightly more expensive compared to draining and refilling a pool, it’s sustainable. We use our own mobile power and filtration units. All we need a homeowner to provide is a garden hose to refill a small amount of water that gets lost in the process.

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People & Community

B A K E R S F I E L D M AT T E R S

By Lisa Kimble

BRINGING GRAPES TO LIFE Delano vineyard puts grapes into the spotlight

t has been almost 30 years since Claymation dried grapes, ambassadors of the California Raisin Advisory Board, burst onto the pop culture scene. The advertising campaign was a hit and had everyone popping raisins to Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through The Grapevine.” But the sensation dried up. Now, three decades later, a young, savvy marketing team at a Delano vineyard is throwing Kern’s king crop – the table grape – back into the spotlight with a series of charming, hip videos. “A Day in the Life of a Grape” is the brainchild of 27-year-old Columbine Vineyards marketing representatives Lauren Olcott and 23-year-old Claire Caratan, whose great-grandfather Marin Caratan harvested Columbine’s first crop of grapes in Delano in 1926. Using social media to put a fresh, new digital spin on our top commodity is surely something Caratan’s ancestors could not have imagined nearly 90 years ago. Exquisitely shot and paired well with music, like Pharrell’s “Happy,” the promotional videos highlight the various stages in the grape’s lengthy production journey – from leafing and planting to pruning and packing. One vignette has a grape’s eye view of Kern County from overhead. “As a young girl, I learned the ins and outs of our family’s business and my time in the vineyards taught me appreciation for the hard work that goes into producing good-quality table grapes,” Caratan said. “Retailers and consumers were intrigued by the grape growing process, so we decided to depict it to them through these informational and unique videos.” Shot and edited by Timeless Motion of Bakersfield, the first video was released last summer. Fifteen more have been produced since, and all can be viewed on Columbine’s website and YouTube. “The videos utilize vibrant color and lively music to capture the love and care it takes to get our delicious varieties fresh from our family farm to your family table,” Olcott said. “My favorite is Columbine’s packing video, but I recommend checking them all out.” Industry reaction has been favorable. Retailers are astonished at the production process of the sweet treats, Columbine says. “Like many of the state’s table grape growers, Columbine Vineyards is telling its story digitally and in an interesting and visually appealing way,” said Kathleen Nave, president of 134

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the California Table Grape Commission. “The more stories that reach consumers about the art and science, history and heritage, and risks and rewards of growing table grapes in California, the better!” Columbine has no plans yet to merchandise “A Day in the Life of a Grape” the way the wildly popular California Raisins were back in the late ’80s before Caratan and Olcott were born. “But we are continuing to create informational and interactive media surrounding the daily activities at Columbine Vineyards,” Olcott added. “We want to inform not only retailers, but end consumers on the meticulous growing process of table grapes.” To spend a day in the life of a Lisa Kimble grape, visit columbinevineyards.com.

FA M I LY V E R D I C T

By Katy Raytis

THE ROMANCE IN KERN LIFE Love is in the air and in the people who breathe it

hen I hear someone putting down Bakersfield, I tell them there is scientific data showing that Bakersfield is the most romantic city in the country. This isn’t opinion. It’s science. Sunsets are romantic. Smog creates vibrant sunsets. Bakersfield has the most smog. Thus, Bakersfield has the most vibrant, romantic sunsets. If that isn’t romantic enough, Bakersfield also has hot weather. When it’s 140 degrees, people don’t wear a lot of clothes. “Scantily clad against the backdrop of a blazing, orange sky.” That sounds like something out of a romance novel, but it pretty much describes any summer night in Bakersfield. Simply put, there is a unique beauty to our undervalued city, regardless of whether the rest of the country can appreciate it. Just look at our return rate. This is a boomerang town. People grow up, run off into the world, but eventually most of us come flying back. It happened to my parents, to my childhood friends and now to me. There is reason that we boast such remarkable return. There is a strong, warm wind of “good air” that blows through Bakersfield – an air of familiarity, an air of humility, an air of relaxed, simple living. Maybe the Air Resources Board ought to do some studies on that one day. In Bakersfield, you won’t find arrogance or pretension (or what my

family calls “being snobnoxious”). Instead, life is slower, easier, and less frantic. Your priest might celebrate Mass in his front yard. You can wear flip-flops to a dinner party. Business deals really do get done with a handshake on the patio at Cafe Med because a handshake still means something. That’s romantic. For me, Bakersfield might be best defined by a palpable sense of community born of shared history. It keeps you grounded, honest and humble. My clients aren’t just my customers, they are friends, the kids of my parents’ friends and the grandkids of my grandparents’ friends. We rode bikes and carpooled and toilet papered each other’s houses. We got in trouble, blamed the other kid and are now collectively lying to our own kids about the things we can’t let them

know we did. There is romance forged by walking through life together generation after generation. If you picked up the July issue of Vanity Fair Magazine, you might have read an article that describes Bakersfield as “an uneasy city, a gang-infested boomand-bust oil town.” I’d say the author missed a few points. If you don’t believe me, take five minutes to look up at the evening sky tonight. Those bright sweeps of red, pink and orange aren’t only smog. They are romance. Love is in the air, and on our better days, in the people who Katy Raytis breathe it. bakersfieldlife.com

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People & Community

PERSONALITY

A LIFETIME OF SERVICE Local CEO says goodbye after 43 years at same institution By Miranda Whitworth

“

For a woman to be in a position she’s in it takes a lot of hard work.

”

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DeAnn Straub “That was hard,” said Cliff. “She worked all day and went to school at night out at Cal State. Those were long, long days but we got through it.” Straub received her MBA in 1989 and by 1991 she was promoted to executive vice president under then-CEO Fred Doering. Doering was battling cancer and it was apparent he’d need to find a successor but Straub says he never felt she was a strong candidate. “He had never done much to train me,” said Straub. “He told me, ‘DeAnn, don’t think that because you’ve become executive VP you’ll ever be made CEO. The board will not have a woman as CEO.” While a female CEO isn’t uncommon in 2015, it was fairly rare in the

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEANN STRAUB

hen DeAnn Straub took a job as a teller at Kern Federal Credit Union in 1972, she was one of 13 employees. She was a 20-year-old student at Cal State Bakersfield and didn’t think she’d be working at the small financial institution for long. But 43 years later, she sits in a corner office on the second floor of Kern Federal’s main branch in downtown Bakersfield. She is the president and CEO and her retirement is just days away. “I won’t miss the stress,” said Straub. “But I will miss the people I work with.” Straub spent the last few weeks on the job packing her office and taking trips down memory lane. Thinking back on her tenure at KFCU, she remembers doing it all. “A year after I started, I went to the lending department, then to accounting. When we started offering Visa cards in 1978, I was asked to head that project up. When we started our checking — Cliff Straub accounts, I helped launch that. I had an opportunity to work in or with almost all of the departments,” said Straub. By 1983, Straub was pregnant with her first son Joshua and by 1986, she was enrolled in the MBA program at Cal State Bakersfield and pregnant with her second son Trevor, all while she and her husband Cliff Straub worked full time.

banking industry in 1994. But Straub says Doering’s warning didn’t come from a place of ill will. “He was old-school and he was just being honest with me,” she said. “He truly thought the board wouldn’t make that kind of move.” Doering’s health took a turn for the worse in 1994 and an emergency tracheotomy pulled him from his position at the credit union permanently. Straub became acting CEO and decided to throw her hat into the ring for position. “I didn’t have high expectations but I applied for it and then when I got the position I just smiled to myself and said, ‘OK Fred, I guess you were mistaken.’” Cliff says he’s always been impressed by his wife’s perseverance.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the party of the year! â&#x20AC;&#x153;For a woman to be in a position sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in it takes a lot of hard work,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Men have been in these positions for years and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just tradition. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s utterly fantastic; I am so proud of her I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even explain. But there was an awful lot of hard work that went into it.â&#x20AC;? The board of directors that Straub feared would not have appointed her CEO was also there to lend a hand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had a great relationship with the board and especially the board at that time,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They were very appreciative and supportive. They were really there for us.â&#x20AC;? Since Straub has been at Kern Federal, the credit union has grown from $35,000 in assets to an institution of $220 million. The staff of 13 is now over 60 employees. She has seen good times and bad,

helped introduce new products and services, and was in command during the financial crisis of 2008. Straubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contributions donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop at banking. She is a proud member of the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary and chair of the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary Foundation. She has spent many years serving on the boards of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and CASA. While she looks forward to her future in retirement, Straub looks back on her career with fond memories and little regrets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In all honesty, every day I have been happy to go to work in credit unions,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You feel good about where you work because you know the goodness that you are doing. That mission attracts wonderful people and it makes all the difference.â&#x20AC;?

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People & Community

H O M E TOW N H E R O

CARLOS DELEON Making a difference in the world, one recruit at a time By Tyler Goucher Photos courtesy of Carlos Deleon

t age 18, Carlos Deleon was just like most other teens fresh out of high school, unsure of what to do with his life but positive that he wanted to make a difference in the world. With interests in becoming a police officer or even a firefighter, it was the meeting he had with his U.S. Marine Corps recruiter that pushed him to sign up for the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program in 2005. After completing a 13-week boot camp in San Diego, he went on to Camp Pendleton for combat training and then to school in Virginia Beach to become an intelligence specialist. From 2006 to 2009, Carlos Deleon Deleon was deployed twice to Iraq with the 1st Battalion 2nd Marines, both deployments lasting seven months each. From there, he went on to become an instructor for intelligence school and then a recruiter out of Bakersfield, which is the position he currently holds. As an active duty Marine for almost 10 years, Staff Sgt. Deleon continues to show his dedication to protect and serve and display his resilience to never back down. What has been your most memorable moment? I think the most memorable thing would have to be the Marines themselves. My best friends are from boot camps that I have been to. Those bonds that were made last a lifetime. Any138

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Carlos Deleon celebrates his graduation from the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy in Camp Pendleton. where you go with your Marines, you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at home. What inspired you to join the military? Back in 2005, during the search in Iraq, I wanted to do some kind of service for my country. I thought I was going to do my four years and get out but ended up loving it and am still in it to this day. What is your biggest achievement? For me, there are different kinds of achievements. Right now, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m on recruiting duty and we are looking for very specific qualities because one day these recruits are going to be the Marines that bring us to our future. We see their potential and this gives them the opportunity to take advantage of that potential. I also found being an instructor to be very rewarding. I just want to develop them and give them the tools to succeed as a Marine.

Deleon at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. Why did you decide to become a recruiter? While I was working as an instructor at the intelligence school, I got flagged to be a recruiter. I got chosen for this special duty because of my qualifications. Where do you see yourself in the future? My goal is to retire in the Marines. I already re-enlisted last year, so I will return to Camp Pendleton after my special duty ends.

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People & Community

WHY I LIVE HERE

DANNY DIAZ

PHOTO BY MICHAEL LOPEZ

Champions reside in McFarland

By Jennifer Olague

here wasn’t ever a time when Danny Diaz didn’t dream of becoming more than the field worker he was in his early teens. He remembers growing up sharing a pair of shoes with his siblings and working countless summers under the hot McFarland sun with his family. But his dreams of success were far greater than the days he spent working after school in the fields. “We learned early on to have the mindset to overcome, not give up and give more,” Diaz said. That mindset led Diaz to join the McFarland cross-country team in 1986 — a story that inspired the major motion picture “McFarland USA.” Diaz was on the team for four years and led the team to victory in 1987 after being known as the slowest runner. “I was the slowest one on the team, being the seventh runner, but I made it to the top five and we won the race,” Diaz said. To this day, Diaz resides in McFarland. After graduating from McFarland High School, he went on to attend Bakersfield College and California State University, Fresno. He has been a teacher at McFarland High School for 12 years. He is currently an at-risk counselor and has been for the last eight years.

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Given numerous opportunities to move away, why do you still live in McFarland? I love McFarland with all my heart. My brothers and I have been traveling a lot recently as guest speakers for many events. The movie has really inspired people and they want to know our story. After visiting all these towns, there is still one place I want to come to and that’s McFarland. … I don’t want to leave McFarland. My whole family lives here. What makes McFarland special to you? Family. I love that there isn’t a lot of people and that it’s peaceful. I like to say that McFarland is where champions reside. What is your favorite memory in McFarland? I’ve lived here all my life so I can’t think of just one memory. I recall looking at all the agriculture in McFarland and it brings me back to the days where my siblings and I would work in the fields. Where my house is now is built adjacent to those same fields. Where’s the best place to run in McFarland? Running on the hills is the best place to run. It’s on Mast Avenue. How did McFarland help shape you? Working in the fields and running helped shape our work ethic and our appreciation for things.

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People & Community

A L L- S TA R AT H L E T E

URBAN COWBOY Local teen saddles for success in bull, bareback riding By Diana Greenlee

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Karson Montijo complete with a saddle and harness, in their dad’s garage. He puts a lot of time in running the plays. “He’ll sit there for hours,” she said. “He loves being a real cowboy.” Lindsey, 25, said Karson is a natural talent, but that didn’t make it any easier to watch him when he first started riding bulls. She said it scared her to death. “He was a very little boy,” she said. “Watching him made my heart go to my toes.” Karson said there’s a definite technique to riding bulls and broncs. Riders earn points for each time they spur, and sometimes there’s no anticipating which way the animal is going to turn. It can feel like a long eight seconds on the back

PHOTO COURTESY OF ChRiStinA Felix

hile some teens enjoy tossing around a ball after school, Karson Montijo is busy facing a different kind of fearless competitor. The 17-year-old Bakersfield High School sophomore is an accomplished cowboy, regularly participating – and winning – in bull and bareback riding throughout California. Karson’s dad, Bob Montijo, said his son was 12 when he first flew out of a shoot at an open Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) event in Kernville. Bob, 47, who’s ridden his own share of angry bulls, said Karson showed promise early on, but he wasn’t too surprised at the little buckaroo’s nerve and skill. “He was raised that way,” Bob said with a shrug. “His cousins are also team ropers.” Despite his advantages, Karson has put in many hours of practice, even traveling to Nipomo to work with the pros. And his hard work’s paying off; he earned a saddle this year for placing first in his division in the California High School Rodeo Association (CHSRA) bareback event. But he’s humble. “I’m still not super good,” he said. He’s good enough to be leading in the California Junior Cowboy Association (CJCA) bulls and broncs category and to qualify for the CHSRA state competition in the bareback category, also qualifying as the alternate in bulls. Bob says in addition to the travel for practice, the sport puts the cowboys out of town every weekend three months a year and at least once a month the other nine. “August is the month off,” Bob said. But Karson doesn’t see it that way. His sister Lindsey Montijo says her baby brother built a stationary training device,

of a raging beast, but the gaucho says he hasn’t had to eat too much sawdust. “I’ve only hit the ground twice before,” he said. The youthful wrangler said he’s hoping his skills in the saddle will lead him down the college path; joining the Marines is his backup plan. “I’m working for scholarships,” he said with optimism. “It’s a career opportunity.” The young bronco-buster said he’s played baseball and football, but likes rodeoing the best of all sports. He said there’s nothing like staring down the mane of a horse with its head down, while it’s kicking up its heels. “There’s a lot of G-force,” he said with a grin.

People & Community

TA L K O F T H E T O W N

URBAN LIVING Residential community to be placed in the heart of downtown Bakersfield By Gabriel Ramirez

ave you ever gone to San Francisco, New York or Washington D.C. and come back craving that urban lifestyle that isn’t available in Bakersfield? You’re probably not alone. Many Bakersfield residents also desire a contemporary urban living style and they will be happy to know of local plans that are in the works to capture that trendy essence. As early as May 2016, a planned 44-townhome gated community at 1001 18th St. is projected to open its

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doors to tenants. The 17th Place Townhomes, run by 17th & O Investment Company LP, will sit in the heart of downtown Bakersfield, just steps away from the Padre Hotel, The Fox Theater, Rabobank Arena, the Downtown Arts District, Mill Creek Park, Maya Cinemas, Bakersfield Museum of Art and dozens of dining options. Building a residential community in downtown Bakersfield only makes sense, given its rapid, successful growth of thriving businesses over the last few years. Plus, many

people work in the area and spend a lot of time downtown. “We see a lot of potential downtown,” said Austin Smith, project manager. “All new construction is happening in the northwest or southwest, but there is a lot of demand for housing downtown especially from younger generations that might have lived in other cities and enjoyed the urban setting.” The 1,160-square-foot two-bedroom apartment is envisioned to be part of three floors. The first floor will be a car garage, the second floor

will have the living and dining area and a half-bathroom, and the third floor will feature two bedrooms and a full bathroom. Those apartments facing east will get a view of the mountains and those facing west will get a nice view of downtown through the 6-foot windows, which Smith says are a unique feature in Bakersfield. There will also be five corner units with 90 additional square feet. “Downtown Bakersfield has continued to develop through the years,” Smith said. “We believe it can support housing. Downtown is already a huge employment center.” The hope is that this project will spur future additional growth of urban style living in the city. Smith believes this development will bring more housing from other developers as well. “We hope that this development is a catalyst for a lot of other development, including recreational amenities and retail,” Smith said. The 17th Place Townhomes

are projected to be complemented with high-end features and finishes, such as private garages, in-unit washers and dryers, quartz countertops, stainless steel energy-efficient kitchen appliances, ultra high-speed Wi-Fi, LED lighting, no-VOC paint, drought-sensitive landscaping, secure courtyard space, barbecue and fire pit, and more. Smith says these units will be good for all different types of people in different stages of life. “There are a lot of benefits to living downtown,” Smith said. “Walkability is a huge one. At this point, with the millennium generation, there is a desire for more alternative housing types. Not everyone wants to live in a single-family home anymore. Others might want to downsize and enjoy all amenities of downtown.” Smith says the pricing of the rentals is still being reviewed. However, if residents would like more information, he recommended they visit 17thplacetownhomes.com.

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People & Community

Engineers Jim Varley, left, and Randy Grueber pose for a portrait outside of the main train entrance.

ALL ABOARD! Children’s railroad at CALM fueled by volunteers By Paul Rivas

he train at the California Living Museum steams through a mountain landscape at 6 miles per hour overlooking a unique view of the Kern River. It holds 50 passengers and takes them on an unforgettable western ride. Randy Grueber and the other retired volunteers who manage the Central California Children’s Railroad are purely kids at heart with a love for trains. With two retired train engineers in the group, they take pride in creating a real train ride experience for their passengers. They all dress in their train uniforms and play the role of 146

Bakersfield Life Magazine

conductor and engineer yelling, “All aboard,” forming a friendly atmosphere that adheres to operational protocol. Along with the entertainment that the train provides, education is incorporated by the crew with a 5-minute instructional presentation to all its passengers prior to the ride. “We feel our brief presentation is very important, especially the safety segment,” Grueber said. “We want them to understand that the train is a fun ride, but it is not a toy.” Volunteers do 100 percent of the train maintenance. “We do not cut corners or compromise safety in any way,” Grueber said. “We have a network of community experts and specialists that we consult August 2015

when necessary.” The train departs from Central Station and ventures on for a 2/3-mile-long ride around a collection of dinosaurs with razor sharp teeth and other displays. Danger lies ahead as the train cuts around a corner and Robber Baron pops out from behind a bush to give passengers candy. It continues on to safety passing by a farm with a small windmill and a barn with a sign that reads “Rancho Notso Grande.” The clickety-clack of the train tracks adds to the excitement of the ride as passengers get a view of Yellowstone Park, which is a stone painted yellow. “Oohs” and “aahs” can be heard by passengers as they ride by Lindsey’s Lookout — an elevated view that overlooks the Kern River and the desert bighorn sheep exhibit. On a recent visit, 10-year-old Hannah Whitley and her 8-year-

old brother Marcus hopped off the train with big smiles and said, “It’s such a beautiful ride.” Warner Brooks, a retired Kern High School District administrator, was the mastermind behind the development of the train. Brooks purchased the train from a farmer in Oregon and the track was donated by the CALM foundation, and it has been in operation since 2002. With the support from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, the railroad at CALM is able to continue to grow, said Stephen L. Sanders, chief of staff for Kern County Superintendent of Schools. Sanders added that CALM would not be the family attraction without the train and its corps of volunteers. “Their commitment to CALM and to CCCRR is endless, and they have such fun with it,” Sanders said.

People & Community

FOR A CAUSE

MAKING THE DREAM A REALITY FOR ‘DREAMERS’ Local group aids students in pursuing college education By Gabriel Ramirez Photos by Mark Nessia

his summer, the Arredondo family gave eight students a gift that will help them complete their college education. While college costs may seem impossible for many immigrant students, a local group, the College Dream Fund, has found a way to make the dreams of “dreamers” a reality. The College Dream Fund, started in 2010, helps give scholarships to local immigrant students. This year, the college dream fund provided scholarships to 59 students. Through the Arredondo family, eight students received $5,000 scholarships for four years. Blanca Perez was one of the recipients of the Arredondo scholarship. Perez recently completed her bachelor’s in biology from Montana State University Billings and, thanks to the scholarship, was able to complete her degree, take an MCAT prep course and pay for the MCAT test necessary to apply for medical school. “Thanks to this scholarship, I was able to understand the importance of all the knowledge I have gained and the difference I can make,” Perez said. Perez comes from a single-parent household consisting of seven other siblings and when it came time to 148

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August 2015

Jim Young, center, with the recipients of the Arredondo scholarship.

apply to college, Perez knew getting financial aid was out of the question because of her undocumented status. Her only choice was to work multiple jobs but she was concerned about the hours affecting her schooling. “Because of this scholarship, I didn’t have to work as many hours and could focus on my studies,” Perez said. “I didn’t have to carry the stress of how I was going to pay for school.” Jesus Cuen, engineering/math major at San Diego Mesa College, also received the scholarship, which made higher education possible. “This scholarship has definitely given us hope,” Cuen said. “It has helped me pay for my expenses and helped me continue my education.” Laura Arredondo, who presented

the scholarships to the students, said that they initially decided to give these scholarships out because they knew there was a need and they believed in the students. “They can take away your money but they can’t take away what is in your heart and in your brain,” Arredondo reminded the recipients. “We are proud to give these students the opportunity that Jose and I didn’t have.” Jim Young, treasurer of the College Dream Fund, said the group felt it was important to help high-achieving college students who grew up in the United States but were considered undocumented. “We saw that many of our brightest were going into the fields because they couldn’t pay for college. These

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students are American through and through and they needed our support.” Adetola Adeniyi, an immigrant from Nigeria, reminded the audience that undocumented immigrants don’t just come from Mexico. Adeniyi is currently at UCLA Medical School and credits her ability to take the MCAT to the Arredondo scholarship. “This scholarship has helped me in a lot of ways,” Adeniyi said. “This scholarship shows ... that there are opportunities out there.” Other recipients of the scholarship included Alejandra Tydryszewski, Erika Villasenor, Perla Carrillo, Daniela Miramontes and Pedro Villalobos.

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FOR A CAUSE

Kathleen Messenger walks her horse Mandy around Bit-O-Heaven Horse Rescue Ranch, a home for rescue horses where they can live their remaining years in peace.

A SAFE HAVEN FOR HORSES Abused, neglected horses find peaceful living By Shelby Parker

Photos by Mark Nessia

hen most people get into a nonprofit organization, they usually spend a long time planning and perfecting their business plans. That wasn’t the case for Tracy Totton-Martin, owner of the Bit-OHeaven Horse Rescue Ranch, but some things in life are just meant to be. She had a small riding school on her land as a way to feed the three horses she had at the time. As the kids who were taking lessons got older, they wanted to board their horses with 150

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Totton-Martin and her husband. Around the same time, a friend of her grandfather’s called her and asked if she would be able to take his older horse because he was dying. A longtime horse lover and rider herself, TottonMartin decided to take him up on the offer, but by then, she had run out of room and needed to find another spot. They eventually found property in southwest Bakersfield and haven’t looked back. It soon became a nonprofit to help other horses with the same kinds of stories. Bit-O-Heaven’s mission is to provide a loving home for horses that are elderly, lame or have been neglected,

abused or abandoned. Totton-Martin wants them to be able to live their lives in peace, as she says most of them have been through so much as it is. She also wants to help people understand the needs of the neglected horse, and that if they want to own a horse, they need to be aware of all that it entails. “Most people give up their horses or start neglecting them because they didn’t understand what it was going to cost or how much work it was,” she said. The horse ranch feeds, waters and cleans the stalls for the horses, along with giving them medications, vaccinations, grooming and, the most important, love. Even if the horses cannot be ridden, they get some form of exercise, either being hand-walked or turned out every week. Bit-O-Heaven currently has 33 horses, and while there is more space available, Totton-Martin says they are

Kathleen Messenger prepares her horse Mandy for a walk around Bit-O-Heaven Horse Rescue Ranch in Bakersfield.

financially full and can’t take on more, which is why donations are so important. The horse ranch is a “forever home,” which means they don’t adopt the horses out or sell them as it’s just too hard on the horses. Savannah Hill visited for the first time on a field trip in fifth grade, and something just clicked with her to keep going back. She has been volunteering for five years, and although she has gotten used to seeing Totton-Martin work with the horses, she still says it’s “unbelievable”

to see how well they respond to her, and it’s amazing to see “how much the horses loved her and how much she loved them.” Hill’s favorite part of working with the horses is that she “gets to give them a second chance.” “People forget about horses, and they forget that this country was built on their backs,” said Martin. “They’re magical creatures.” For more information on volunteering or donating, visit bit-oheavenranchinc.org or contact Totton-Martin at 845-6252.

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I N S I D E STO RY

One of the most popular attractions in the Crystal Palace is the '72 Pontiac parked behind the bar.

BUCK OWENS’ CRYSTAL PALACE A legend lives in Bakersfield By Jennifer Olague Photos by Mark Nessia

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ountry music lives at the Crystal Palace. The sound of Buck Owens welcomes you as you enter the iconic museum, bar and restaurant. Since 1996, the Bakersfield landmark has been welcoming people from all over the world, including famous country artists like Garth Brooks. Owens was the leader of the Bakersfield sound and was the first country star to emerge from Bakersfield. In the Buck Owens’ Museum, you can find displays and statues — all made out of bronze — that highlight some of the most influential people in Owens’ life. Plus, more than 1,100 photographs cover the walls of the stairways leading up to the second floor. You can also find Owens’ suits, guitars and gifts from many of his famous

friends, including Johnny Knoxville’s worn-out Converse. If you’re looking for a place to dine and a show to see, the Crystal Palace offers a selection of mouthwatering dishes and entertaining shows. Don’t forget to snap a photo of Elvis Presley’s 1972 Pontiac convertible — a car Owens won at a poker game in Vegas. Legend has it that he cheated. The Crystal Palace — which cost Owens $7 million to build — is one of a kind. Jim Shaw, one of several managers and Buckaroo member, said, “The vision was to create something that has never been done before — a wow factor.” The museum prides itself in being enjoyable enough that a tour guide is not needed. “It’s more of a self-tour,” he said.

One of 20 glass display showcases.

Buck Owens' statue

More than 1,100 photos taken throughout Buck Owens' career are displayed throughout the Crystal Palace.

Ten bronze statues of notable musicians, such as Elvis Presley, Garth Brooks and Merle Haggard greet visitors at the Crystal Palace entrance. The musicians, who inspired Buck Owens in various ways, were selected by Owens himself.

The Crystal Palace museum opens at 11 a.m. and visitors are free to roam around on "self-guided" tours.

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H I STO RY

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ Kern County gold rushes and boomtowns By Julie Plata Photos courtesy of the Rand Desert Museum used by permission

Group of Randsburg miners at a mine entrance.

We were up and harnessed early, For the day had come at last, Dreamlike visions seemed so crazy, Now were truthful as the past. As we passed the sleeping city, Bathed in starlight, crystals bold, ’Neath the dews of early morning, Sped our mules for Randsburg gold.

hen Dock Wilson’s ode to Randsburg appeared in The Bakersfield Californian on Sept. 5, 1896, Kern County’s richest boomtown was in its infancy. Fortunately, the people of Kern County already had years of experience with gold rushes and boomtowns; the dream of prosperity ignited by the gold rush of 1849 still burned strong. Gold was first discovered in the southern Sierra Nevada during an exploration trip led by John C. Fremont in 1851, but when the news of placer gold in the Kern River Valley spread in 1854, Californians caught gold fever.

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As the number of immigrants to the area increased, newspapers tantalized readers with positive reports from the Kern mines. If there was any doubt about the validity of the reports, the June 12, 1854, Daily Alta California assured readers there was “no doubt of the truth.” The paper emphasized “miners who were doing well upon the San Joaquin have left their claims” for the riches they were sure to find along the Kern River. On Dec. 11,1854, the Sacramento Daily Union reported on the abundant provisions and high yields available to the miners that averaged $6 per day. The newspapers’ hype worked to attract people to the mines but there simply was not enough placer gold to satisfy the miners. Within a year, the fervor surrounding the diggings quelled as quickly as it started. The Los Angeles Star reported on March 15, 1855, that many returned home “disappointed in not finding the ore in sufficient quantities to warrant their stay.” The Sacramento Daily Union wrote a scathing article on

March 12 defending the miners who were “cruelly deceived by the false representations” of the richness of the diggings. The following day, the Daily Alta California advised miners “to await and first learn to a certainty how rich and how extensive the diggings are.” By 1855, the Kern River Valley’s first gold rush was over. Many left the Kern River Valley empty-handed, but several miners remained and continued quartz mining. They helped establish the valley’s towns, including Keyesville, Kernville and Havilah – the first county seat. Kern County’s most profitable gold rush started in 1895 in the Rand Mountains of the Mojave Desert. Randsburg, located in the county’s most eastern end, was home to the most productive gold mines. The history of the town began on April 25, 1895, when miners Frederick Mooers, John Singleton and Charles Burcham officially staked their claims and established the Yellow Aster Mining and Milling Company. According to the June 19, 1896, San

Francisco Call, over 500 claims existed and the mines produced ore worth $150 per ton. The Butte and the Yellow Aster mines provided the largest output. As people learned of the new claims, the town’s population quickly increased to 1,500 – 3,500 by 1899. Although the March 15, 1897, Los Angeles Times proclaimed Randsburg the “greatest gold camp in the world,” it rapidly transformed to a full-fledged town. A reprinted article from the Randsburg Miner featured in the July 28, 1908, The Bakersfield Californian informed readers: “Every rock in Randsburg has gold; everybody in Randsburg works. Everybody in Randsburg pays their bills. Everybody in Randsburg has money. Everybody for Randsburg and her golden treasures.” The Oct. 15 edition of the publication reported Randsburg district mines sent hundreds of thousands of dollars monthly to the mint and produced $3,000,000 worth of gold. The California dream became reality

The Yellow Aster Mine in Randsburg for many in the desert boomtown. Randsburg is now a sleepy little town, but Dock Wilson’s words carry the spirit of its glory days. I must leave you now, kind reader, Quit you e’er my song is sung, For the boys had gold-bug fever With their nerves a little strung. So we’ll wish them every prospect In the land of wealth untold, Returning soon to town o’er burdened, Sprinkling joy with Randsburg gold.

Miners coming off shift with lunch buckets, May 1898

Mule team pulling a load of ore

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People & Community

POWER COUPLE

MICK AND ROBYNN GLEASON

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

Meeting at the right place at the right time

Kern County Supervisor Mick Gleason and his wife Robynn. 156

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What is it that entices you the most of your wife? Mick: She’s my life; I define my life and my existence by her life. We’ve been through a lot of joys and sacrifice. Where we are, we’re sitting back on a life built on achievement – on working together along with our three kids. What are you most proud of about your husband? Robynn: I was most proud of his time when he served in the military in which he flew in Desert Storm, but I’m also proud of how he gives 100 percent of everything he does, his passion for life and his family.

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What is your favorite activity to do together? Mick: We love to eat! We love to try new foods and we just love to eat. Robynn: We do date nights and since Mick retired from the Navy, his cooking skills have gotten better. Every time it has to be a new dish and we grade ourselves on it.

hirty-eight years ago, Mick and Robynn Gleason met at an Irish restaurant – a classic story of being at the right place at the right time. Mick was enjoying a meal with his sister Mary when Robynn stepped in, brushing off the snow from the blizzard happening outside. That’s when she noticed Mick. “I can’t explain it; I just knew he was the one,” she said. Passionate about the military, Mick’s first choice was the Air Force. But in spite of all his efforts, the Air Force declined his application. “I wanted to be in the Air Force but every time they declined me. I couldn’t pass the physical exam,” he said. “And when I applied for the Navy, they took me in immediately.” From 2006-2008, Mick was the commanding officer of Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. Robynn, who was a stayat-home mom for nearly 27 years, went back to school after moving to Ridgecrest. After earning her nursing degree from Bakersfield College, she was hired at Houchin Community Blood Bank as a registered nurse and works with the Eastern Kern mobiles as a charge nurse, supervising nursing staff while treating a limited number of patients, as well as acting as an educational resource for other nurses. While Robynn likes to cook and enjoys time spent with her grandchildren, Mick has little time for hobbies; he not only focuses most of his time as the 1st District supervisor, he is also the senior program manager for General Dynamics. They have three adult children and two grandchildren.

How did you know you were each other’s soul mate? Mick: It didn’t happen suddenly. I was more observant and the more I looked, the more I felt the connection. Robynn: Immediately. I felt drawn to him, especially when I challenged him to play racquetball and I lost.

By Oscar Miranda

What is the secret to a happy marriage? Mick: Success in a marriage is having mutual respect and hard work. That’s where we find our happiness. Robynn: Definitely communication. We spend most of our time talking about any issue we have. Communication and working together, taking the time to listen to each other but, most importantly, having patience and a Christ-centered life.

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REAL PEOPLE

SALT OF THE EARTH Lab superintendent helps produce materials for everyday devices By Diana Greenlee

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Donna Anderson

PHOTO COURTESY OF DONNA ANDERSON

t’s just another day in the salt mine for Donna Anderson. As a quality laboratory superintendent for U.S. Borax in Boron, Anderson, 59, oversees the on-site laboratory, analyzing samples of the excavated sodium borate to assure it meets customer specifications for an endless array of applications. The superintendent says the company refines the mineral and mixes it with various other substances to create an array of products, including industrial fiberglass, detergents and fertilizers. It’s even being used in stateof-the-art electronics. “Our products go into Gorilla Glass,” she said. “It’s on the front of screens; cell phones and some televisions.” The Boron facility has a visitor’s center overlooking the mine and Anderson says folks can view the process from mine to manufactured goods. She said the facility is a popular field trip, especially for college students. “They come by the busload,” she said. U.S. Borax is part of the Rio Tinto Corporation, the second-largest mining company in the world. The Boron facility boasts the biggest open-pit mine of any kind. Although Anderson works a day shift, the facility operates 24 hours and employs more than 700 people. The superintendent holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from University of Nevada at Reno and an MBA from University of La Verne. She’s changed hats several times during her career – giving her a leg up in her current role. “In 27 years, I’ve been able to work at lots of different jobs,” she said. “I’ve worked in the production department learning the process, engineering, installing equipment. I spent three or four years in safety.”

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U.S. Borax is part of the Rio Tinto Corporation, the second-largest mining company in the world.

Anderson said she enjoys working with people in the plant to make product improvements, but the company’s dedication to safety sealed the deal. “Safety is one of the reasons I’ve stayed,” she said. “They have a commitment to the safety of employees and contractors. So everyone can go home safe.” Tehachapi is home for Pennsylvania-born Anderson. She and her daughter, Carlene Welch, 25, who also works at the plant, make the 50-minute commute together. She also has a son, Dylan Welch, 24. Raised in Northern California, she lived in Boron for two years but traded proximity for cooler weather. Anderson’s glad to be part of the U.S. Borax team. She says they provide jobs and produce materials for products folks need every day. “There’s a saying,” she said. “If it’s not grown, it’s mined.”

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PRIME FINDS

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Back-to-School Plates! Commemorate your child's next big step in school with a handprint ceramic dinner plate “hand” painted by you and your child! Color Me Mine at the Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave., 664-7366, bakersfield.colormemine.com.

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C F I E S ST U M BAKERSFIELD, CA

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Latino Food Festival and Menudo Cook-Off Date: May 31 Held at Kern County Fairgrounds Photos by Sylvia Picazo and Debi Alvarez View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

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Chris and Leticia Rivera

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20/30 Club Annual Fundraiser Date: June 25 Held at Boys and Girls Club Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Chris Perier and Robert Lee

Nick Valos, Alex Balfour and Anthony Martinez

Aubrey, Vicki, Darren and Kinsley Williams

Vi, Aaron and Woody Tenzer

Ashley DeVolld and August Klein

Shane Bryan, Brian Dean, Brent Newby and Andrew Edquist 164

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Frank Gonzales and Santiago Baltazar

Stephanie Mendez and Kathyrine Balfour

Brian Dean, Paradiz Gurule and Ana Martinez

Deborah Durkan and Diane Hopkins

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Jennifer Hayslett, Nicole Campbell and Lauren Antongiovanni

Date: June 26 Held at Fleur De Lis Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

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Westchester Fourth of July Parade Date: July 4 Held at Westchester neighborhood Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Barbara, Angelita, Russell and Stephen Elrod

Payton, Falon, Mark and Fabiola Butcher

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Kurt Hettinger and Dewey Compton 166

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Linda Sullenger and Jim Scott

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Roger Gunning/Light Brigade Celebrity Golf Tournament Date: June 18 Held at Bakersfield Country Club Photos by Henry A. Barrios View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Rudy May, George Culver, Jerry Martin, Arno DeToit and Javier Bermea

Rita Sluga, Dianna Gandy (Gunning) and Helen Denesha

Bob Paillet and Hunter Robinson

Bill Dewing and Larry Davis

Jim Foss, Rick Sawyer and Luis Ortiz 168

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Darrin Burchfield, Jesse Lopez and Richard Martinez

Ron Ramirez and Larry Campbell

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Latina Leader Awards Date: July 11 Held at Bakersfield Country Club Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Mayra Trevino and Endee Grijalva

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LAST WORD

BEAUTY ABOUNDS IN KERN COUNTY Stop and enjoy the surroundings; you won’t regret it

By Cheryl Scott

he first time I heard someone brag about the beauty of Kern County’s landscape, I was a 15-year-old high school sophomore. I listened politely to the stranger from out of town, but I didn’t quite share his appreciation. Not yet anyway. The year was 1982 and three of us, all students at Arvin High School, were squeezed into the back of a driver’s education training car as we took turns getting our behind-the-wheel experience. Back then, driver’s ed was a class in school and an instructor from Los Angeles had come in to handle the final component of our training. “I love spending time up here,” he said. “It’s so beautiful. Sometimes I bring my kids here and drive them around just so they can experience it and see where our food is grown.” I don’t remember what I said in response, or if I replied at all, but I’m pretty sure I thought it was one of the strangest things I had ever heard! Odd as it seemed at the time, though, that instructor’s comments encouraged me to look at my world differently. I started paying a little more attention to my surroundings, and I began to realize that Kern County is, indeed, a unique and beautiful area. By the time I graduated high school, in front of the purple backdrop of Bear Mountain, I had a whole new perspective of our region’s beauty. 170

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Almond tree orchards count among the beauty of the county.

During the next few years, I kept the road hot between classes at CSUB, a part-time job in Arvin and my home in Lamont. Driving past acre after acre of orange orchards, grape vineyards and tall stalks of corn calmed my mind and helped me transition to the next part of my day. It’s not what most people think of when they hear the word “commute,” but logging dozens of daily miles between city, farmland and oil fields is quite common in an 8,100-square-mile county like ours! Maybe it’s because of my roots, but I still enjoy a nice, long drive along country roads. Not long ago, I couldn’t resist pulling over to photograph a field of onions, its tall shoots proudly hoisting up white blooms as if presenting them to the sun. And who hasn’t at least been tempted to plan a family photo shoot among Kern’s blossoming almond trees?

I’m thankful I live in an area where I can still discover local treasures after all these years. One of my favorites is Kernville’s rugged Whiskey Flats Trail that meanders by the Kern River, and I recently fell in love with the panoramic valley views visible from the Wind Wolves Preserve near Highway 166 and Old River Road. And while I’ve always enjoyed the colors of Red Rock Canyon in northeastern Kern County, I just saw for myself the bright-orange wildflowers popping out of the brown desert earth along the road to Ridgecrest this spring. Beauty truly does surround us here in Kern County! It took an outsider, decades ago, to help me see what was right before my eyes. Since that day, I’ve made it my mission to take in the majesty around me and to appreciate it all.

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29,995

MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $880.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

2016 Pilot LX 2WD: 280-HP, 3.5-Liter i-VTEC® V-6 Engine with Direct Injection1 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines2 Push Button Start 4.2-Inch Multi-Information Display USB Audio Interface (1 Port) Capless Fuel Filler Available Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4™) AWD System [1] 280 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE net). [2] Always visually confirm that it is safe to drive before backing up; the rearview camera display does not provide complete information about all conditions and objects at the rear of your vehicle.

See It Now At Your Award-Winning Locally Owned Honda Dealer, Barber Honda for your BEST Deal on a New or Used Honda!

www.barberhonda.com

4500 Wible Road

at the Entrance to the Bakersfield Auto Mall

Barber Honda

V E R S A N I R

1955

2015

LOCALLY OWNED

1-888-503-8891 Se Habla Español