Bakersfield Life Magazine December 2013 by The Bakersfield Californian Specialty Publications

December 2013

Happy Holidays 2013

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Sweet Bakersfield delectable dessert shops

Dining Divas hit Snag cool ideas with this year’s

Holiday Gift Guide Discover ways to celebrate December Meet four of Santa’s helpers

Snow in the city? “Shining Bright” by Rubia Dalbosco van Roodselaar

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F E A T U R E S December 2013

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE Celebrate the joyous winter time with Bakersfield Life!

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• Like our cover? Meet the artist who won our “Christmas in Bakersfield” cover contest, and other candidates,

Page 12 • Learn about religious and cultural celebrations and observations in December, where to celebrate locally, and perhaps, best of all, what’s on the dinner tables. Page 74.

• Need gift ideas? Check out our 2013 Holiday Gift Guide, filled with dozens of local goodies, Page 84. Want to add a special made-in-Bakersfield treat with your package? We’ve got you covered on Page 114.

• Meet four ladies who help Santa fulfill the wishes of locals in need during this special time of year, from senior citizens and foster kids to local nonprofits, Page 126. • Yes, it does snow here! You may remember the last time. Reminisce about it on Page 112 and learn about the other times snow fell on the streets of Bakersfield.

• Explore the local favorite holiday traditions including CALM HolidayLights, Page 162, Christmas parades, Page 50, and Nutcracker Ballet, Page 56.

DINING DIVAS • The Dining Divas of 2013 bid their farewell at the Mark Restaurant, Page 36.

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December 2013

D E P A R T M E N T S December 2013

13 32 34

Up Front It Manners a Lot Kelly Damian

108 112 114 118 122 126

Home and Garden History Our Town Community Neighborhood Spotlight Ladies Whoâ&#x20AC;Ś

36 36 40 46 50 58 60 65 66 68 72 92 104

Dining Divas Food and Wine Foodie Entertainment Hometown Hero On the Road Why I Live Here All-Star Athlete Talk of the Town For a Cause Business Profiles Pastimes

132 132 136 140 144 148 152 162

Personality Real People Fit and Fresh Health and Wellness Trip Planner SNAP! Inside Story

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Page 40

indulge your dark side Rich chocolate and the bold flavor of peppermint come together to create a unique coffee experience. The McCafé Peppermint Mocha is back at your locally owned and operated Bakersfield McDonald’s. Go ahead. Indulge a little.

The creamy flavor of french vanilla combined with rich espresso makes for a deliciously sweet experience. The new French Vanilla Latté has arrived at your locally owned and operated Bakersfield McDonald’s. Go ahead. Reward yourself.

reward your sweet side

FEEDBACK STAFF SHARES

Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine Dec. 2013 / Vol. 8 / Issue 3

WHAT SPECIAL HOLIDAY MOMENT DO YOU REMEMBER THE MOST? “One Christmas I got more Star Wars toys than I knew what to do with. It was magical.” — Mark Nessia, contributing photographer and writer “Well into my 30s, our family spent Christmas Eve at the home of my aunt and uncle. Friends and boyfriends came and went, but the traditions of the night never changed. My cousin and uncle wore matching red vests, one cousin played the drums while his sister played carols on the piano, followed by long distance phone calls from far away relatives. About 17 years ago, my husband and I inherited the party. It is a highlight of our children’s holiday.” — Lisa Kimble, contributing writer “Going to New York to visit the East Coast family. Tons of Italian food, lots of storytelling, joking around and laughing, and so much love!” — April Massirio, contributing photographer “A few years ago, I interviewed a family for a story in The Californian and walked away feeling like I needed to help them, especially since Christmas was a week away. I went home and told my mom about this family who had very little. The next day, she went shopping and bought them clothes, blankets, toys, food, etc. We went to their home to drop off the presents, and the parents and kids were so grateful. I’ll never forget their smiles and tears of joy.” — Hillary Haenes, specialty publications coordinator

“One childhood Christmas trip from Santa Monica to Lake Isabella was particularly memorable. Snow had closed the Grapevine, so my mom drove us over the snowy mountains on Highway 33 in our station wagon. When we finally hit the valley floor, the fog was so thick we couldn’t drive more than 20 mph. Our three-hour journey turned into a 12-hour, whiteknuckle adventure with stories, songs and friendly fellow motorists.” — Kevin McCloskey, contributing writer “One year, instead of a Christmas present for my elderly grandmother, I wrote her a love letter, thanking her for everything she’s ever done for me. She loved it!” — Chelsea Brewer, contributing writer “When I was a kid, my teenage sisters decided they were too old to leave a note for Santa. In response to this affront, ‘Santa’ sealed their presents in a steel drum. My sisters got an unexpected gift that year: A lesson in amateur welding.” — Kelly Damian, contributing writer

Bakersfield Life™ magazine is published by The Bakersfield Californian. The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin Interactive Sales Manager Gunter Copeland Advertising Sales Manager Lisa Whitten Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Marketing Manager Mira Patel Distribution and Marketing Representative Patrick Wells Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Jorge Barrientos Specialty Publications Coordinator Hillary Haenes Editorial Assistant Estella Aguilar, Marisol Sorto Art Director Glenn Hammett Photography Felix Adamo, Sally Baker, Henry A. Barrios, Casey Christie, John Harte, Lois Henry, Michael Lopez, Tracy Maple, April Massirio, Tony Moreno, Greg Nichols, Mark Nessia, Carla Rivas, Jan St Pierre, Rodney Thornburgh, Brian N. Willhite Contributing writers

“When I was about 7 years old, everyone came to my grandmother’s house for Christmas. There were no fights that year and everyone was able to relax and just have a good time. I got a knife for Christmas that year.” — Eduardo Gamez, intern

Sally Baker, Chelsea Brewer, Scott Camp, Kelly Damian, Lois Henry, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Stephen Lynch, Kevin McCloskey, Louis Medina, David Milazzo, Mark Nessia, Jeff Nickell, Earl Parsons, Chris Thornburgh, Brian N. Willhite Interns Eduardo Gamez On the cover

“Our annual family white elephant gift exchange, which usually includes more than 30 people, is always a crack up. You never know what you’ll end up with.” — Jorge Barrientos, assistant managing editor 10

Bakersfield Life Magazine

“My family’s church used to put on an amazing play called, ‘The Boar’s Head Festival.’ I’m not sure if they still do it, but it is something I will remember for the rest of my life.” — Emily Claffy, contributing writer

December 2013

“Shining Bright” by Rubia Dalbosco van Roodselaar, who is this year’s winner of Bakersfield Life’s holiday cover contest. See it in person during First Friday, Dec. 6, at Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St.

EDITOR’S NOTE

HOLIDAY CHEER AND CELEBRATIONS

A Bakersfield Holiday Cover What’s the best way to creatively illustrate the holidays in Bakersfield? We posed that very question to local artists, and they showed us their artistic answers. With the help of Metro Galleries’ owner Don Martin, Bakersfield Life received submissions for cover art as part of a small contest. We received several beautiful submissions and chose just one as our cover. The winner was Rubia Dalbosco van Roodselaar’s “Shining Bright.” Among other standouts, pictured at left, were “Bakersfield” by Lynn Simmons (top) and “Holiday in Bakersfield” by Prapat Sirinavarat (bottom). To see them all, go to bakersfieldlife.com. And to see all of them in person, visit Metro Galleries — 1604 19th St. — on First Friday, Dec. 6.

Happy Holiday to you and your loved ones from Bakersfield Life staff!

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

don’t know if it’s just me, but this year seems to have flown by. Now that we are in our last month of the year, many of us are finding ourselves in full swing of the holiday spirit and taking on our special December traditions, whether it’s planning the family’s holiday gathering, becoming more spiritually connected to our faith and centering our activities around it, preparing donation gifts to families in need, or catching the best shopping deals around. That is why we hope you will enjoy this edition, as we hope to provide you with plenty of photos and stories that capture that local holiday spirit. Writer Louis Media explores the importance of various local holiday celebrations including Jewish, Orthodox Christian and more. We also take a look at some of “Santa’s helpers” in Bakersfield, women who are involved in local holiday charity programs. There are plenty of activities to look forward to in town this month, including the popular HolidayLights at CALM, Nutcracker Ballet and Christmas parades. Look inside our pages for more details on those. In addition, Fit and Fresh writers Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann encourages us to get outdoors and enjoy the cool weather. In their column, they talk about hiking, provide some tips and share some local spots to explore in town and within driving distance. For the holiday shoppers in mind, myself included, our holiday gift guide will help you with ideas on what you can pick for loved ones. Also, I would like to thank all of the artists who participated in the Bakersfield Life December cover contest. Last month, we asked local artists to produce artwork that could be considered for the cover of the December issue. The artwork had to center on the theme of Christmas or holidays in Bakersfield. We received a

number of worthy candidates, and if any of our readers are curious to see them, we ask that you stop by Metro Galleries on First Friday downtown on Dec. 6 for the display of the submitted work. Don Martin of Metro Galleries worked with us on the project. As we finish this year with our December issue, I also want to take the time out to thank our 2013 Divas and Dudes, who gave their time to visit local restaurants, make new friends and experiment with different local cuisine, and, of course, write about those experiences. It is always neat to see local people from different walks of life come together and watch the friendships form several months later as part of this project. We will miss our 2013 Food Dudes and Divas: Vin Dang, Derek Abbott, Rick Kreiser, David Leon, Rick Hudgens, Marlene Morales, Stephanie Brooks Pickering, Denise Ornelas, Mai Giffard and Andrea Ames. We wish you guys the best. Moving into January 2014, I would like readers to know that we have selected our 2014 Food Dudes and Dining Divas. Meet them starting with our next issue, when we launch our new Divas. Our new Food Dudes will be introduced in February. I think you will enjoy our new Dudes and Divas for 2014. I know they are excited about the opportunity.

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

UP FRONT

WORD ON THE STREET Compiled by Brian N. Willhite

WHAT IS THE BEST CHRISTMAS GIFT YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? Rebecca Press

Kristen Barnett

Ben Conway

“A beautiful sweater from my son last year, because he picked it out and I loved everything about it.”

“When my dad flew our family from Tennessee out for Christmas. We love them, and it was a lot of fun because we had not seen them in five years.”

“A gift certificate from my wife for a ride in an AT-6 fighter plane. I’ve always wanted to fly in one and she made that happen.”

Phillip Press

Nannette Gonzalez

Daniel Garnett

“The lion toys I got when I was 5 years old because that’s when I became interested in creating art inspired by African animals.”

“When my whole family went to Disneyland for Christmas. It was so magical at that time, plus being there with my family made everything wonderful.”

“A Sega Genesis. The memories of all those late nights playing it with my family and friends were a lot of fun.”

Katie Barnett

Teresa Ornelas

Taren Alexander

“The swing set my dad built for us was really exciting. I was 21 years old then but I’m still a kid at heart.”

“When I spent Christmas with my family in Mexico nine years ago. I haven’t seen them since, and I miss them.”

“The best gift was when my husband quit smoking so we could be together forever.”

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THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Casey Christie

SATURDAY MORNING SPLENDOR Two deers are spotted by The Bakersfield Californianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s photographer Casey Christie north of Kernville near the Kern River on a recent Saturday morning.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

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THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Felix Adamo

BLUEGRASS BROTHERS Bakersfield residents Paul and Loren Barton have been playing bluegrass together as The Brothers Barton since 1998. With Paul on mandolin and Loren on guitar, they have performed at local venues and toured around the country playing their music. This photo was taken at a ranch off Highway 65 near Famoso Road for the Brother’s upcoming album “New Love,” due to be released in February. The Brothers wanted children to be part of their new album and enlisted the help of children from friends, as well as Paul’s own children.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

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UP FRONT NAMED AFTER

BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART

hristmas came early at the Bakersfield Museum of Art after a woman from New Jersey donated a piece of art created by artist Marion Cunningham — the museum’s original namesake. The woman discovered a signed and dated silkscreen print of UC Berkeley’s Sather Gate, created by Cunningham, in a frame she received from a neighbor. The museum’s board recently voted unanimously to accession it into its permanent collection of Cunningham’s works, which now exceeds 70 pieces. For 34 years, beginning in 1956, the Bakersfield Museum of Art was known as the Cunningham Memorial Art Gallery. The gallery was founded by the Walter Osborn family in memory of their eldest child, Marion. The family’s donation of $25,000, combined with other donations, made the construction of the museum in Bakersfield’s Central Park possible. Marion Osborn Cunningham, the oldest of three children, was born in South Bend, Ind., in 1908. Walter Osborn Sr. practiced law. Shortly after her birth, he moved the family out to the Pacific Northwest for health reasons. He ventured into logging before the family settled in Bakersfield. Marion attended Kern Union High School, Santa Barbara Junior College, and studied art at Stanford University, The Art Students League of New York and California School of Fine Arts. Her sister Priscilla played for the Kern Philharmonic, and brother Walter Jr. was an attorney, and later served as a judge. A gifted painter, Marion settled in the Bay Area where she

Bakersfield Museum of Art, formerly known as Cunningham Memorial Art Gallery, was under construction here in 2001. 18

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

CUNNINGHAM MEMORIAL ART GALLERY

spent her young adult life. She was commissioned to do the artwork for the SS Luraline luxury steamship, and design some of the wallpaper for San Franscisco’s famed Fairmont Hotel. Marion met and married fellow artist Ben Cunningham, who was born in Colorado, raised in Reno and arrived in San Francisco in 1925. Ben Cunningham, whose geometric paintings cemented his hard-edged reputation later, worked for the Federal Art Project. The couple had no children. The Cunninghams were a major presence on the San Francisco art scene. During the 1930s, Marion began producing silkscreen prints. Working in what had been a speakeasy on Clay Street, she turned out more than 20,000 serigraphs and 75,000 greeting card copies. Much of her work reflected iconic images of life in the Bay Area. Her colorful reproductions of the cable cars were in demand nationwide. Marion also exhibited her works in local shows, including renditions of China town and other Bay Area landmarks. Cable Car at Union Square, San In the spring of Francisco by Marion Osborn 1948, while on her Cunningham, circa 1940. way to Europe and Africa, Marion fell ill due to a brain tumor. She died on the operating table during surgery in New York City. In 1990, the Bakersfield gallery’s name was changed to the Bakersfield Museum of Art, and the facility and its surrounding gardens has undergone numerous changes since. — Lisa Kimble

MONEY MATTERS

HOW TO SAVE ON TAXES, PLAN MEDICAL PAYMENTS WITH ‘FLEX PLAN’ ACCOUNTS

f your employer offers a “flex plan” during open enrollment, don’t miss out on a great tax-saving opportunity. Employed individuals who incur unreimbursed medical expenses or have dependent care expenses will benefit from flexible spending accounts. Employers listen up, too! You can also benefit from these taxsaving plans.

WHAT IS A FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT? A flexible spending account is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows employees to save money on out‐of‐pocket medical and dependent care expenses. Employees set aside a portion of their paycheck to pay for qualified expenses, pre-tax. Thornburgh • Tax-saving benefits: A flexible spending account increases your spendable income by using pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible expenses for you, your spouse and dependents. It’s like paying for your medical and dependent care expenses at a substantial discount, often as much as 40 percent depending on your personal income tax bracket. Money set aside for account expenses are not subject to payroll and income taxes, resulting in savings of potentially hundreds, or even thousands of dollars a year. Flex plans are a win-win for employees and employers for this reason. Employers benefit because they do not pay the matching payroll tax on employee deductions. Employers may also realize savings through lower workers compensation premiums.

HOW A FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT WORKS Enrollment takes place once a year, usually on Jan. 1 for most employers. You designate how much you want to contribute, then that amount is taken out of your paycheck in

equal installments each pay period and placed in a special account by your employer. You can change or revoke your election only if there is a change in your employment or family status specified by the plan. Dependent care expenses and medical expenses that are not reimbursed by insurance are submitted with proof of payment or a provider’s invoice to the plan administrator, who then issues you a reimbursement check. • Expenses eligible for reimbursement: In general, you can use flex money to pay for things that qualify as deductible medical expenses by the IRS and are not reimbursed through insurance. Doctors’ visits, hospital stays, chiropractic visits, and dental treatments are clearly eligible, as are prescription drugs. Eye exams and glasses or contacts are also popular items to drain flexible spending accounts. Other examples include deductibles and co-payments, braces, smoking-cessation programs, non-elective cosmetic surgery, hearing aids, crutches, wheelchairs, mental health counseling, acupuncture treatments, and qualified long-term care and nursing services.

CALCULATING YOUR CONTRIBUTION Plan carefully and set aside only what you think you’ll spend. Annually, you can contribute up to $2,500 for medical expenses and $5,000 for dependent care expenses. A dreaded “use it or lose it” rule says any money left in your account at year end is forfeited. However, some employers allow you to submit expenses for reimbursement up to two and a half months after year end, and others may allow $500 to be carried over to the following year thanks to recently passed legislation. To determine how much to contribute, make a list of expected out-of-pocket medical expenses for you, your spouse and your dependents for the next year. Don’t forget deductibles and co-payments but be conservative so you don’t unnecessarily forfeit any money. — Chris Thornburgh is a CPA and partner at Brown Armstrong Accountancy Corp. Contact her at cthornburgh@bacpas.com or 324-4971. bakersfieldlife.com

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SHORT TAKES

VILLAGE FEST PROCEEDS BENEFIT CHILDREN

ne of Bakersfield biggest parties of the year also is one of the most generous. Childrens’ Advocates Resource Endowment recently donated $37,000 in Village Fest proceeds to local groups focusing on the needs of children in Kern County. Village Fest featured welcomes some 6,000 people who enjoyed more than 130 different beers, 60 varieties of wine and 35 restaurants, with five stages of live entertainment. Recipients included: Optimal Hospice Foundation Bereavement Camp for Kids, Society for Disabled Children, CASA of Kern County, Kern Partnership for Children and Families, Clinica Sierra Vista, Lori Brock Museum, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center and Community Action Partnership of Kern, among others. — Bakersfield Life Magazine

KERN ANIMAL SHELTERS OFFER FREE PET MICROCHIPPING Has your pet been microchipped? If not, now is your chance. Kern County Animal Services is offering free microchipping for county residents’ cats and dog at its three shelters. A microchip, a permanent identification detectable by a scanner, can help reunite pets and their owners in the case a pet is lost. They’re the size of a grain of rice and implanted under the pet’s skin. Veterinarians and animal shelters can scan the pet for a microchip and contact the pet owner via a database. The shelters are at 3951 Fruitvale Ave. in Bakersfield, 14891 Highway 178 in Lake Isabella, and 923 Poole St. in the Mojave Airport More information: 321-3000, www.co.kern.ca.us/acd 20

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

hree locals will be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in December to support kids and families in Kern County’s first comprehensive pediatric program. Breeann Romo, Greg Gutierrez and Mike Hay will make their sixday journey to the top of the 20,000-foot high African summit starting Dec. 2. They’re funding their own trip, but they’re climbing for a cause — the Children’s Miracle Network, which supports the Lauren Small Children’s Medical Center at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. “It is important to have life-saving equipment for children readily available in our community so families do not have to go through the struggle and financial burdens of arranging to go out of town constantly with their child for days or weeks,” the trio states on their fundraising website, climb4kids.com. More information, donations: visit climb4kids.com, email support@climb4kids.com or call 615-5958. — Bakersfield Life Magazine

THINKSTOCK.COM

Village Fest generated $37,000 for local children’s charities.

PHOTO BY JOHN HARTE

TRIO TO ‘CLIMB 4 KIDS’

B WELL, FIT FOR LIFE CHALLENGE TO BENEFIT TOYS FOR TOTS

akersfield Life’s sister magazine, B Well, has partnered with Fit For Life Gym to host the 500 Rep/5K Challenge on Dec. 14 at Yokuts Park, benefiting Toys for Tots Foundation. There is no entry fee. Simply bring a new, unwrapped toy — for local underprivileged children — to participate in the challenge, and receive a 5K Challenge long-sleeved T-shirt, a B Well swag bag, and food after the run. And, Santa Claus is taking time away from the North Pole to visit the kids. Be prepared to be challenged with 10 exercise stations throughout Yokuts Park, through the riverbed and into Beach Park. The race starts at 8 a.m. For more information, call Fit For Life Gym at 325-0900.

BAKERSFIELD LIFE ON THE WEB Ugly Sweater contest We asked for shots of your ugly holiday sweaters, and you sent your ugliest for a chance to win CALM Holiday Lights tickets. Here are some of the winners.

LISA KRUGER

“This one is really a ‘dog’.”

Extra, Extra!

ADRIENNE MYERS ISMAEL CORRALES JR. “Here are two gems. Me and my wife, Cory.”

GET READY FOR “BEST OF BAKERSFIELD” The nomination period for the 21st “Best of Bakersfield” contest kicks off Dec. 2. Be sure to log on to bestofkern.com to nominate your favorites in 108 different categories — voting begins in January. Look for new categories, and longtime favorites.

“This is a sweater I made for my husband, Doug, for a contest in his office. Someone asked him if the tree on the front was a Douglas Fir.”

Taste of Home reader recipe Last month, we asked readers to send in their favorite homemade soup or stew recipe to win tickets to November’s Taste of Home Cooking School at Rabobank Theater, and receive a copy of Taste of Home “Almost Homemade” recipe book. We received several responses, and here is one of the winners.

‘I DON’T HAVE A NAME FOR THIS’ SOUP “This is my favorite homemade soup recipe. It is easy to vary and add items of your choice to this recipe to meet most any purpose. We love it!” — Dorothy Conley Ingredients: 1-1/2 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon butter

Go to bakersfieldlife.com for more delicious food photos from the Dining Divas’ visit to The Mark Restaurant, contests, more SNAP photos and much more. Also, visit and “like” us on Facebook and follow our Twitter for more insider info.

1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves of garlic, smashed (for removal later) or chopped 1 can of diced tomatoes, plain or flavored of your choice 2 cans chicken broth 1 medium or 2 small potatoes, diced 1 can white beans Salt and pepper to taste 1 small handful of tiny pasta of your choice baby spinach parmesan Directions: Heat oil and butter, add onion and garlic and sauté until tender. Add tomatoes, broth, potatoes, beans, salt and pepper. Simmer for 30 to 40 minutes over low heat. When potatoes are nearly done, add pasta. Continue cooking until potatoes are tender and pasta is al dente. Place about a handful of spinach in a serving bowl and ladle the soup over it. Serve with parmesan cheese on top.

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UP FRONT

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

MY PET

Don’t encourage dangerous street skating

BOB RUTLEDGE AND ZOEY

Chivalry isn’t dead Thank you for the recent article in Bakersfield Life Magazine on proper male social conduct (It Manners a Lot: “Hold the door, take off your hat, be a gentleman,” September 2013) Yes, chivalry does “manner a lot!” I was beginning to believe I was one of the only few gentlemen left in this community who is still practicing chivalry daily without a second thought. I will thank my mother for my good social etiquette. Once again, thank you for educating the many. — Patrick Frase

Bakersfield Life Magazine

peaceful, content, fluffy. ob Rutledge and his family members Favorite game: Watching the pigeons outare all animal lovers. In fact, the owner side. of Bob’s Bait Bucket on Chester Favorite food: Skippy wet and dry. She Avenue for more than 35 years doesn’t might live in a bait store, but she doesn’t much separate business from pleasure. care for fish. Rutledge is a member of the Cat People Talents: Sleeping in extremely awkward local rescue group, pays fees for animals to be adopted from animal shelters, fosters kittens from Bakersfield SPCA, and regularly attends Kern County Animal Control meetings with his wife E.J. to lend a helping hand, daughter Robin Paggi said. Rutledge and his wife have several rescued cats in their home, and it’s no surprise that in his store dwells Zoey, a 12-year-old adopted Calico cat, who replaced the previous shop cat. “When she died, she left an empty spot that needed to be filled. We thankfully found Zoey just in time,” said Rutledge, who also owns Kern River Bait and Tackle on Niles Street and Morning Drive. “(Zoey) fits in well as our official greeter and store mascot.” You can usually find Zoey laying on the counter so customers can pet her Bob Rutledge and his cat Zoey while Bob and his employees ring up purchases. When he’s not in the shop, Rutledge enjoys positions. fishing, spending time with grandkids, cooking, Antics: She will roll a ball every once in a reading, feeding the cats and cleaning the lake while, but she needs to rest for a few weeks after at Hart Park, and conducting tumble weed coneach stressful workout. trol at Panorama Vista Preserve. Favorite moments: Zoey has a habit of I named my pet Zoey because… that making someone’s bad day into a good day just was what she was called at the animal shelter, by being in the right place at the right time. She so the name stuck. is able to comfort them and put a smile back on I know when my pet is moody when… their faces. she doesn’t want to be touched, or she doesn’t — Do you know a devoted pet owner who want to eat, which is very rare. deserves to be highlighted in Bakersfield Life? What makes my pet happy: Sleeping, Email us at bakersfieldlife.com with the subject eating and having her head scratched. line: My Pet. My pet in 5 words: Laid-back, happy,

PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO

There was an article about skateboards in the (October 2013) issue (Pastimes: “Longboard liftoff,” October 2013). The picture included part of my front yard, and the other was of the pipe fencing on the five acres next door, which we own and have our horses on. The problem with this article is that this is a very dangerous place for skateboarders to ride their boards, and in addition, it is illegal for people to ride these boards on roads. The hills are steep, and my fear is that someone is going to come over a hill and hit one of the skaters as they weave back and forth across the road while they go down the hill. The driver of the car would have no idea anyone was on the hill, and someone could get killed, which none of us want, of course! We need to discourage this and not encourage it. How horribly any of us would feel if we went over a blind hill and hit one of these young men. Someone already has broken a shoulder, and that is minor to what could happen. — Jeanne Schamblin

December 2013

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS… HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Working together since 1973

Joseph

Daniel

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ock ’n’ roll fans can visit Graceland for a slice of Elvis history. Well, Bakersfield Sound fans may one day be able to visit Merle Haggard’s childhood Oildale home, too. They’ll have to visit the home at the Kern County Museum, that is if local history preservationists Glenda Rankin and Diana Sharman (Merle’s sister) succeed in raising about $100,000 to restore and move the 1935 home to the museum and

build a replacement for the current owner. Kern County Museum Foundation voted to accept Merle Haggard the home built by the father of the country music superstar on its grounds, with board members stating it could be an international draw to the museum. — Eduardo Gamez

Merle Haggard’s childhood home in Oildale.

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

BAKERSFIELD’S GRACELAND? MUSEUM COULD HOST HAGGARD’S HOME

WHAT I’M READING

PASTOR MARK AIREY Lutheran Church of Prayer

ark Airey, pastor at Lutheran Church of Prayer in northeast Bakersfield, traveled the world as a child with his family while his father served as a U.S. Naval pilot and intelligence officer. He was born in Singapore, spent his teen years in Marin County, studied at UC Santa Barbara, and spent 20 years in sales management for Lucent and then Tyco Electronics. It was his wife, Barbie, who brought Airey to a church where he “was led to the feet of Jesus and found forgiveness and a love which changed my life.” Eventually, Airey, along with his family — which includes daughters Jessica, Lexi and Emma — went to a seminary in St. Louis. After four years there and three years as an associate pastor, he was called back to BakPastor Airey ersfield, as pastor of Lutheran Church of Prayer. All the while, Airey has been an avid reader, from reading his favorite book as a child, “The Last of the Mohicans,” to reading upwards of 3,000 pages a quarter at seminary. “I’ve enjoyed reading throughout my life,” Airey said. “I've always loved the way you can enter into a world and be completely immersed, forgetting any problems in life.” What I’m currently reading: I just started reading “The Mean-

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

ing of Marriage” by Timothy Keller. I love the way he applies the wisdom of God to the “mysteries” of everyday marriage. Favorite author: C.S. Lewis has had the most impact on my life. From “Mere Christianity” to “The Screwtape Letters,” he has brought me to a new understanding of faith and its intellectual struggles, and the spiritual warfare that is constantly at our doorsteps in life. Favorite book: “The Cost of Discipleship” by Dietrich Boenhoeffer. At a time when I was just coming to a true maturity, it shaped my understanding of grace and the way we are called to live in a community with one another. Books I’ve read more than once: J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy because of the fun I had reading it to my children and watching them become captivated by the spiritual struggles in the wondrous world of Middle Earth that seemed to have some kind of subliminal significance in their young lives. Other materials I like reading: I give an honorable mention to “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand. What an amazing true story of perseverance and faith. World Magazine gives me world news from a perspective you don’t see from the mainstream media. I read Fox News online, Christianity Today and other Christian blogs and journals. The book that’s been inspirational in my life: The Bible. There is no book that is as multifaceted and can be read so many times over with new wisdom, encouragement, and hope coming forth from each sentence each time depending on where I am in life.

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hat better way to celebrate the holiday cheer than by experiencing it through cultures from around the world? Timeless Furnishings, at 1918 Chester Ave., will again host the annual “Christmas Around the World,” featuring Christmas displays from 43 different countries — like dolls, nativity scenes and nutcrackers. This nonprofit event benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation, local foster children and the deaf community, among others. The showcase runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Jan. 4. Tickets are $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for kids (free for children 5 years or younger). More information: 747-4316. — By Eduardo Gamez

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FOUR INDUCTED INTO BC ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME Four Bakersfield College alumni were recently added to BC Alumni Association Hall of Fame. They were: • Gerry Collis: Successful BC football and baseball coach and avid cheerleader and fundraiser for the college’s athletics, raising millions of dollars for student athletes. • Peter Reyes: A Bakersfield native, Reyes has led the Renegades football team onto the field, waving a flag at home and away games, for more than 30 years. • John Alexander: Starting his education at BC and eventually obtaining his dentistry degree at UCLA, Alexander has donated his skills to student athletes for 34 years and contributed to BC countless other ways. • Bill Houser: A former U.S. Coast Guard, Houser is active with veterans groups on campus, with the alumni association, serving as president in 1977, and was instrumental in the success of the BC alumni barbecues. The BC Alumni Association Hall of

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UP FRONT

FINDING FAME

Bakersfield native David Moffat shows off three generations of the game he created, Pass the Pigs.

DAVID MOFFAT’S ‘PASS THE PIGS’ More than 37 million games, invented by Bakersfield entrepreneur more than 30 years ago, sold worldwide By Scott Camp

Photos by Felix Adamo

akersfield native David Moffat doesn’t roll dice, he rolls pigs. And more than 37 million others across the globe have done the same with the game he created more than 30 years ago.

A LUCKY START Moffat had just dropped out of UCLA and 26

Bakersfield Life Magazine

wasn’t keen on settling into a office job, he said, so he decided to flee to Germany where he worked as a desk clerk and a ski lift operator for 22 months. While at a bar he frequented in downtown Berchtesgaden on New Year’s Two “trotter” pigs from the Pass the Pigs game. Eve, when he noticed his waitress had two miniature pigs in her coin his buddies. He noticed that the pigs landed purse. She explained to him that pigs were in different positions when they were rolled, symbols of good luck in Germany, and she and that’s when the idea came to him. gave him with two of his very own. After months of consulting with his forLittle did he know at that moment that mer fraternity brothers who worked in Los those pieces of plastic would inspire a highly Angeles, the game was picked up by a Chicasuccessful invention down the road. go-based company before being bought out Moffat returned to Bakersfield and by Milton Bradley. Today, the game is owned opened up a sandwich shop, “The Old by Winning Moves Games, Inc., which also House,” on 9th Street and Chester Avenue, owns the Rubik's Cube and Monopoly, but hadn’t forgotten about the pigs, which he among others. used for drinking games that he played with

December 2013

Give them what they

GOING HOLLYWOOD In 1991, Pass the Pigs, formerly known as “Pig Mania,” won the “best game of year” award from the British Toy Association. And more than 37 million games have been sold since 1977. Among its fans is actor Jeff Bridges who likes to play during down time when he’s on set, said Joe Sequino, vice president of marketing for Winning Moves Games. He even played the game with late night TV host Jimmy Kimmel on a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. (to watch them play, go to bakersfieldlife.com) “Pass the Pigs is our best-selling game,” Sequino said. “It has such a loyal following of fans both young and old, and it seems like new generations get turned onto it every time the game pops up somewhere in Hollywood.” Players from across the globe can play the game, which is translated in 12 languages. And players who don’t feel like schlepping the pocket-sized swine can download a digital version of the game, including on their iPhones or iPads.

GLOBETROTTING The success of Moffat’s invention has granted him with a lot of free time that

Just in time for the holidays Win the Pass the Pigs game, courtesy of creator David Moffat! Send an email to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com by Dec. 11 sharing your favorte place to pass the time in Bakersfield.

hasn’t been wasted. Moffat has a strong case of wanderlust and he spends nine months out of every year traveling abroad — seven of which is spent in a small fishing village in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. There he helps local aspiring entrepreneurs with the process of launching their own businesses. “I like to stay true to the motto of ‘Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime’,” said Moffat, 76. As a seasoned globetrotter, Moffat has circumnavigated the world twice and has visited a total of 56 countries. Most notably, he’s been to Machu Picchu, trekked the Himalayan Mountains, paddled through the Great Barrier Reef and participated in the Running of the Bulls in Spain. And when he’s not traveling, he’s here in Bakersfield. “A lot of people put Bakersfield down,” Moffat said. “But I defend it all of the way.”

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How to Play Pass the Pigs The rules are simple: Each player rolls two miniature plastic pigs across a flat surface. Depending on how they land earns the roller a certain number of points. A “trotter” (standing pig) is five

points, a “snouter” (nose to the ground) is 10, and a “leaning jowler” (the pig lands on one ear and its nose) is 15. The first player to reach 100 points wins.

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UP FRONT

Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email: bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com

HAPPENINGS: Can’t-miss events in December dors, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Road. Free. 868-4492.

Sun. 1 - Tue. 31 HolidayLights at CALM, see more than 2 million lights, colorful displays, carousel, train ride around the zoo, open daily 5:30 to 9 p.m. (closed Dec. 25), CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. $12; $10 seniors and children ages 13-17; $6 ages 3-12. Tickets available at vallitix.com or 322-5200, 872-2256 or at the gate at CALM.

Mon. 2 “The Addams Family,” Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $35 to $55 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

Tue. 3 Light Up a Life Tree Lighting Ceremony, 6:30 p.m., The Marketplace by the fountain, 9000 Ming Ave. Free to attend; or make a $10 donation in honor or memory of a loved one. 410-1010. Wynonna & Big Noise, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $59.50 to $125 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200

Thur. 5 31st annual Bakersfield Christmas Parade, “An Old Fashioned Christmas,” begins 6 p.m., at 22nd and L streets. “Season of Light,” 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Bakersfield College Planetarium, 1801 Panorama Drive. $6.50; $4.50 seniors/children ages 5 to 12. Tickets will not be sold at the door. 3954326. Also featured on Thursday, Dec. 12.

CSUB Concert Band Christmas Concert, 3 p.m., CSUB,

HolidayLights at CALM

Fri. 6

Sat. 7

“A Charlie Brown Christmas,” 6:30 p.m., NOR Veterans

An Irish Christmas, 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $26 to $51. vallitix.com or 3225200.

Hall, 400 Norris Road. Free. Tree lighting and refreshments to follow. 392-2000. First Friday Downtown featuring live music, art openings, specialty shops, galleries and boutiques, artists will set up their artwork, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Arts District. Email don@themetrogalleries.com or info@themetrogalleries.com. Guild House First Friday, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Guild House, 1905 18th St. $10, music with light appetizers, dessert, one glass of wine. 325-5478.

Enchanted Forest: A Christmas Classic, benefiting the Kern County Wounded Heroes Fund; dinner, entertainment, silent and live auctions, decorated Christmas trees, 6 p.m., Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Highway. $140. Visit kernenchantedforest.com.

Mon. 23 Chez Noel Holiday Home Tour NOR Junior Theatre presents “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “Christmas in July,” 2 and 7 p.m., North High School, 300 Galaxy Way. $7. 392-2000.

Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $8.95 includes one 4-by-6-inch photo. Email brendab@thecatpeople.org. Also held Dec. 14.

Bakerfield Master Chorale performs Handel’s “Messiah,” 7 p.m. Olive Drive Church, 5500 Olive Drive. $20 adults, $10 students. Bakersfieldmasterchorale.org.

Sun. 8 “Crafting For A Cure” holiday Bakersfield Life Magazine

craft fair with more than 40 ven-

December 2013

begins at Kern County Soccer Park, 9400 Alfred Harrell Highway, goes to Hart Memorial Park and back. $45. Visit thecolorrun.com/bakersfield or 855-662-6567.

Monday, matinee 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $25; $23 seniors and students. 587-3377.

Photos with Santa for families and pets, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

The Color Run: Happiest 5K on the Planet, 8 a.m., race

“Gaslight Holiday Extravaganza,” 7 p.m. Tuesday through

24th annual Chez Noel Holiday Home Tour presented by

Tha Addams Family

Sat. 14

Tue. 17

Fri. 6-Sat. 7 the Assistance League of Bakersfield; three homes will be open for self-guided tours, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $35. Tickets available at Russo’s, Sugardaddy’s, Christine’s, Inspire Salon & Spa. 861-9223.

Doré Theater, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10; $5 seniors and students; free for CSUB students with ID. Email lsakomoto@csub.edu. “Eve Selis” presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 3 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $80 for six concerts; single ticket $25 adults; $10 students. bakersfieldcca.org or 205-8522 or 589-2478.

The Brian Setzer Orchestra — Christmas Rocks!, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $40 to $80 plus fee. vallitix.com or 3225200.

Thur. 26 Bakersfield Condors vs. Las Vegas Wranglers, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $8 to $25. Tickets: Rabobank box office, bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825.

Tue. 31 New Year’s Eve Party 2013, dinner at 6 p.m., show at 9 p.m., Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Dinner tickets with show $75 plus fee; showonly $40 plus fee. vallitix.com or call 322-5200. New Year’s Eve Bash, with music by Members Only, DJ Editt, 9 p.m., On the Rocks, 1517 18th St. $10, 21 and over only.

BY THE NUMBERS

TOYS FOR TOTS

he U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program for decades has collected new, unwrapped toys to distribute as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in local communities, including ours. Last holiday season, Bakersfield donated about 11,000 toys to local children in need, with the goal this year being even higher. Here are some facts and figures for the local and national programs. For local drop-offs and more information, go to http://tinyurl.com/c6q96nb

128: Average percentage that Toys for Tots 2012 fundraising campaign exceeded its goals.

Nationwide

350: Volunteers expected to be involved the 2013.

1947: The year of the first Toys for Tots campaign. 745: Toys for Tots campaign sites across the nation in 2012. $270 million: Amount raised nationally by Toys for Tots in 2012.

46,000: Times the Toys for Tots public service announcements ran nationally during the campaign season.

85: The number of designated corporate sponsors in 2012.

Bakersfield 11,000: Children served by the Bakersfield Toys for Tots in 2012.

300: Local toy bins in the Bakersfield area. $10: Estimate value of each toy. 2: Toys received for each child. 200: Volunteers involved in Bakersfield alone for 2012.

18,000: Kids expected to benefit in 2013. Sources: Marine Toys for Tots 2012 annual report, Toys for Tots of Bakersfield.

469 million: Toys nationally distributed from 1947 to 2102. 70: Ranking Marine Toys for Tots Foundation received in the 2012 “Philanthropy 400.”

97: Percentage of each dollar that went to program services in 2012. 216 million: Less fortunate children benefitting worldwide by Toys for Tots in 2012. 7: Five-star Toys for Tots corporate sponsors, which includes Toys “R” Us, Babies “R” Us, Hasbro, FAO Schwarz and Scholastic. bakersfieldlife.com

UP FRONT

MY MOBILE LIFE

By David A. Milazzo

echnology has gone mobile! The desktop computer is waning and much of the hottest tech devices fit in our backpack, if not our pocket. And this holiday season mobile tech is bigger than ever. The latest gear gives us the luxury of working or playing anywhere — with fewer trade-offs of the past. Here’s a look at a few gadgets to enhance anyone’s mobile geek cred.

dozens of iterations. Using Active Noise Control, these cans go far beyond the free pair that came with your iPod, providing a happy cocoon of peace in any noisy environment. Bose’s latest offering adds Aware Mode, where the headphones let in some ambient sounds keeping you connected to your surroundings while still playing the perfect soundtrack. $300; bose.com

MINI JAMBOX BY JAWBONE BOSE QC 20 HEADPHONES For audio of a more personal nature while traveling, you’ll need some in-ear headphones. And if you’ve ever tried to enjoy a movie at 30,000 feet, you’ll likely recall the difficulty in hearing dialog with engine noise droning all around you. Noise canceling headphones have been aiming to solve this since the ’50s — and Bose has innovated the technology through

Bluetooth speakers are everywhere these days — but not all are alike. The latest Mini Jambox crams a whole lot of sound in a teensy, tiny box. Instead of listening to your tunes on your smartphone or laptop’s tin-can speakers, let this bad boy wirelessly blast your beats. Not only is it great for music and movies, but as a speakerphone, your conference call just got an upgrade. (Can you say, “write-off?”) And taking advantage of the latest low-power Bluetooth 4.0, this gadget will go easy on your battery leaving more time to rock your socks off. $180; jawbone.com

APPLE IPAD MINI AND IPAD AIR November saw the release of two new tablets from Apple: iPad Mini with retina display and a full-size model called iPad Air. Both are markedly faster with desktop-caliber performance, gorgeous highresolution screens, all packed into thinner, lighter enclosures. These are the next chapter in the iPad revolution. And to celebrate, Apple has made all their flagship apps free with the purchase of a new device. From business productivity apps Pages, Keynote and Numbers to media apps iPhoto, iMovie and Garage Band: all are free. So pick your preferred screen size — 7.9-inch or 9.7-inch — and be the mobile powerhouse you were destined to become. $399 to $929; apple.com PHOTO BY HERNY A. BARRIOS

HOLIDAY’S HOTTEST TECH GIFTS

BROOKSTONE POCKET PROJECTOR With your audio needs satisfied, let’s turn to video. Tossing an LCD panel in your bag is so 2012. To prove you’re a mobile master, unveil your four-inch square Pocket Projector and fire up your presentation at the drop of a hat. While your co-workers may not appreciate your cat pics projected 80-inches on the office walls, you’ll revel in the knowledge that Peaches is now a star of the silver screen. Anywhere you need to take your imagery large, this 85-lumen, 1080p, rechargeable projector will make you look stunning. $300; brookstone.com 30

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December 2013 2013

— David A. Milazzo is the founder and principal of Bakersfield-based Macroscopic, an Apple enterprise technology consultancy focused on bringing Mac and iOS technologies to businesses, schools, agencies and independent professionals throughout the United States. You can follow David’s musings on technology via Twitter @davidmilazzo or like Macroscopic on Facebook. macroscopic.net

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IT MANNERS A LOT By Lisa Kimble

HUMANKINDNESS: THE GIFT THAT WILL KEEP ON GIVING

here is a giant billboard facing eastbound motorists on Rosedale Highway that has drivers doing a double take. It’s the one that states: “Kindness Has Zero Carbs.” This one had me at “kindness.” Those four simple words strung together on the Dignity Health sign west of Costco are catching people’s attention, which is exactly what the San Francisco-based health organization is aiming for. It may take some motorists miles before the message sinks in. But I, for one, think it is brilliant and wish I’d thought of it. Save me a seat on this bandwagon. More than just a catchy media blitz, Dignity is taking the ambitious $11 million dollar advertising campaign seriously by putting, what they say is, humanity back into healthcare. Whether it ever left, if it did, or where it went, is subject to interpretation. But in the midst of a national discourse on the dollars and cents and tech missteps of Obamacare, the novel campaign highlighting acts of kindness, however grand or slight, through stories shared on its website, Lisa Kimble hellohumankindness.org, hopes to start a conversation prompting people to behave better, and connect with one another in a more compassionate way. And the effort doesn’t come a moment too soon. According to a survey on Civility in America conducted by the global marketing firm KRC Research, 86 percent of Americans say they have been on the receiving end of some sort of incivility. Is the decline of good manners the new norm? Dignity says “no way,” and I can’t stop applauding. Bravo! Besides, countless studies have already told us that being nicer, kinder and more gentle with each other can be a potent dose of medicine in lowering blood pressure, warding off illnesses, and aiding in the healing process. The stories shared on the movement’s website are inspiring: A rescuer who braved choppy waters and risked his own life to save another, a good samaritan who helped a stranger in need, and a surprise for a family shopping at Target whose entire cart full of items was paid for by someone else. There have been calls to acts of caring before, most notably Bakersfield’s Dr. Chuck Wall and his “Random Acts of Kindness” campaign launched 20 years ago. Dignity hopes humankindness will become a household word. But why not just plaster billboards boasting shorter emergency room wait times, fancier delivery rooms and cutting-edge equipment? “Some have questioned what this campaign has to do with healthcare,” says Robin Mangarin Scott, Dignity’s local director of strategic marketing. “We are proud to say, ‘It is different.’ If we can use a human connection to inspire a stronger and healthier world, then what is the harm in that?” Already, officials with Memorial and Mercy hospitals have seen the call to treat one another nicely spreading internally within its operations and among its employees. 32

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December 2013

Stories of acts of kindness, large and small, are shared on hellohumankindness.org

“Something special is happening,” Mangarin Scott said. “The people who work here are listening and holding themselves accountable to the brand. We all know that sharing humankindness is great on paper, but when it is shared through actions, it can hold the power to heal and help others in ways that extend beyond healthcare.” While modern medicine will always hold the ability to cure, let us all become more attune to the human conditions and the opportunities that present themselves every day to extend compassion and reconnect with humanity — not just heading into the holiday season, but throughout the year. Perhaps social rights activist and retired bishop Desmond Tutu said it best: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” This season, humankindness will truly be the gift that keeps on giving. — Agree, disagree? Send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to read about to me at itmannersalot@bakersfield.com or visit itmannersalot.blogspot.com

Writer’s note: Thank you for your loyal readership of this column and publication, and your thoughtful letters and emails. “It Manners a Lot,” beginning with the January 2014 issue, will become “Bakersfield Matters,” expanding to include the quirks, personality and notable passings within our community, while continuing to amplify the importance of civility. Email me your ideas, comments and suggested topics to itmannersalot@bakersfield.com and visit itmannersalot.blogspot.com. Best wishes for a holiday season rich in time spent with loved ones and a year ahead filled with health, happiness and all that truly “Matters to Bakersfield.”

K E L LY D A M I A N

COLUMN GIVES A GLIMPSE INTO VALLEY HOME, LIFESTYLE

ome columns arrive at my desk like a gift. An idea percolates in the back of my mind. I sit down to write, and the few hundred words unwrap themselves and fall obediently onto the page. Others I have to chase. This particular one — the last of my regular columns for Bakersfield Life — is a runner. For the past two years, I have spent time each month thinking about this town. Who lives here? How does our environment influence us? How do our individual choices impact the people around us? This has made me in no way an expert on all things Bakersfield; however, it has made me feel more admiration and compassion for the people who call this valley home. After these 27 months, what I feel most is a sense of gratitude. Not only for the people who encouraged me along the way, but also for the opportunity I was given to spend time with people who I might not have come across in my daily routine: the Patterson family, which sings every week in front of 24th Street Kelly Damian Café, self-sufficiency aficionados at the Preparedness Expo, women battling cancer at Links for Life. At times, this column was an excuse to have fun, like when I had readings done by three local psychics. But it was also useful as a way to shed light on a local family who lost their little boy, that they might not feel so alone in their struggle. In the first column that ran in this magazine, I wrote about my maudlin drive south from the Bay Area to Bakersfield. In June of this year, my husband and I sold our house in Oak-

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

Editor’s note: Starting in January, we will be dedicating this section to highlighting the writing of local guest columnists. But fans of Kelly Damian and her writing need not worry. You can still find her each month in this magazine, writing about the positive stories, people and happenings in our town.

The Patterson Family Band entertain guests of 24th Street Cafe.

land. I happened to be up north before we closed escrow, and so I decided to visit my little house one last time. I imagined I would walk across the wood floors, my steps echoing through the house that was mine, but not mine. I thought I might look out the kitchen window at the trumpet flowers, walk up the few stairs to my daughter’s old bedroom. I was prepared, in other words, to have myself a moment. I brought tissues. But, in a signature Kelly Damian move, I didn’t bring the right keys. I tried the front door and then weaseled my way into the back yard and tried to get in through the kitchen. The basement door wouldn’t budge and I even attempted the small detached office. Nothing. And so I resorted to peeking through the windows. It just wasn’t the same. The air was heavier with futility than melancholy. (And, possibly I looked suspicious to the neighbors who were now strangers). Finally, I walked back to my car, took one last look at the Spanish-style bungalow, got in my car and drove away. Dry eyed. I felt no regret or nostalgia. I wasn’t from Oakland any more. It was time to go home. — To read more, visit kellydamian.com, or follow Kelly on Twitter @kellydamian2.

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Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

D I N I N G D I VA S

THE MARK RESTAURANT Divas indulge at upscale downtown establishment in farewell experience

Chocolate indulgence pound cake with bittersweet chocolate ganache. 36

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

The Mark Restaurant Location: 1623 19th St. Phone: 322-7665 Facebook search: The Mark Restaurant Hours: 11:30 a.m. to midnight Monday through Friday; 4 p.m. to midnight Saturday. Closed Sunday. Hungry for more? Check out more food photos on bakersfieldlife.com.

Photos by Greg Nichols

Dining Divas are joined with special guest Beth Hoffmann, second from right. From left are Mai Giffard, Denise Ornelas, Marlene Morales, Andrea Ames and Stephanie Brooks Pickering.

Denise on the artichoke dip: Consisting of a delectable combination of artichoke, cream cheese, mozzarella and parmesan cheese, olive oil, spinach served lightly toasted and accompanied by olive oil crostini, this dish is a mouthwatering delight! Andrea on the Dungeness crab cake: This was a golden crab cake placed on top of homemade marinara. It was beautifully presented with a dollop of tartar sauce on top garnished with scallions. I loved how crisp this cake was on the outside, but tender, sweet and meaty on the inside. Great flavor of the Dungeness crab — it was very mild. The homemade marinara was a great complement. Stephanie on filet sliders: These succulent filet sliders were charbroiled just right. They were served on toasted mini buns that were Continued on

hile The Mark Restaurant has only been open since August 2012, it has certainly made a name for itself as a downtown Bakersfield favorite. This fun, upscale establishment offers the perfect ambiance with its live music and artadorned walls, along with creative cocktails, excellent service and quality menu choices like hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, comfort food, homemade soups, pasta dishes and delicious daily specials. Whether you have a business dinner, date night or a holiday party, The Mark is the place to dine. Led by general manager and executive chef Ro Fernandez, bar manager Tony Partida, and supervisor and lead server JR Gonzales, The Mark’s staff is knowledgeable about menu items and attentive to the needs of their customers. We were joined by Hoffmann Hospice’s director of operations Beth Hoffmann, who won a dining experience with the Divas in an auction during the 19th annual Voices of Inspiration banquet. We sampled several appetizers, entrees and desserts all selected by our kind hosts. Here’s why we loved our visit to The Mark. Spinach artichoke APPETIZERS dip Stephanie on sourdough bread: I have a personal philosophy on restaurants — if the bread is delicious, then I can anticipate a good meal. What a wonderfully delicious surprise to begin my dining experience with piping hot, perfectly crusted sourdough bread. I was so impressed that I insisted Chef Ro tell us exactly how he sampled more than two dozen varieties of bread before he found this ultimate combination. Bravo!

page 38

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Seafood cioppino

Continued from page 37 topped with grilled sweet onions and crumbled Maytag blue cheese and served with french fries.

ENTREES Denise on the porcini mushroom rib-eye: “Wow!” is what comes to mind when thinking about this delectable dish. The rib-eye was a 12- to 14-ounce boneless prime cut of meat, lightly seasoned with chili flakes, coated in just the right amount of porcini dust and seared to absolute perfection! I don’t think I even needed a knife to cut into this baby. The steak was served with vegetables and a baked potato. Mark my words, you must try this! Marlene on the maple sage fried chicken: Utterly amazing! The best fried chicken I have ever had in my life! The large boneless chicken breast was cooked with a maple sage sauce, served with fresh garlic mashed potatoes and vegetables. This is comfort food at its best but served in an upscale restaurant. Mai on the seafood cioppino: This dish is packed with seafood, which is ter-

Maple sage fried chicken

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

rific for seafood lovers. It is made with a tomato base full of plump sweet scallops, large shrimp, mussels, clams and even crab claws (a crab cracker served on the side) and olive oil infused, herbed crostini to soak up the sauce. We all requested more of that delicious sourdough bread for dipping, of course. It was great as a shared dish, and I was impressed with the amount of good quality seafood that was in this dish. Stephanie on the filet steak: In a meat loving town like Bakersfield, a good steak goes along way. This tender center cut filet steak was served with house-made herb garlic spread and placed over a red wine demi-glace. This entrée was accompanied by fluffy garlic-infused mashed potatoes and your choice of seasonal vegetables. Mai on the shrimp Alexandria: This dish was named after Chef Ro’s wife, which we all thought was so sweet. Large, plump shrimp stuffed with Dungeness crab and breadcrumbs made of their delicious sourdough bread (so smart!). The shrimp was great over a bed of wild rice pilaf with fresh vegetables. This entree is excellent for anyone who loves shrimp, and doesn’t want anything too heavy for dinner. Andrea on the chipotle chicken fettucini: This dish was so full of flavor with a great bite! Blackened tender chicken topped a bowl of fettucini in a chipotle cream sauce. The strong flavor of the blackened seasoning was complemented with the smoky creaminess of the chipotle sauce in the pasta. The chipotle cream sauce was not overwhelming or too rich. It was accompanied by black beans, corn and roasted red bell peppers. I loved the presentation with thinly sliced tortilla chips piled on the top! If you enjoy a little heat, this is a great dish to warm you up!

DESSERTS Andrea on the decadence butter pound cake: You have to save room for dessert, all made in-house and amazing! I will be back for the butter decadence cake. This tender, round pound cake was warm and buttery with a caramelized topping. What a tasty

combination of warm comforting flavors like vanilla, butter and sweet caramel. There is nothing like this dessert in Bakersfield! Beth on the chocolate indulgence pound cake with bittersweet chocolate ganache: The warm pound cake with chocolate ganache was topped with french vanilla ice cream and Mark-made caramel sauce, served over raspberry sauce, complete with freshly made whipped cream and topped with a fresh raspberry. Beth on the peanut butter banana cream pie on a peanut butter cookie: Layers of bananas, banana cream and caramel cream on a huge peanut butter cookie, topped off with homemade whipped cream, delicately chopped peanuts, a slice of caramelized banana and mint leaves. This is my personal favorite! Of course, presentation is everything, and this was stunning, too! A perfect way to end an evening filled with delicacies and five delightful divas. Special guest Beth Hoffmann on her experience with the Dining Divas: The one thing that I have learned about life is to enjoy the time you have with the people you have around you, and that is exactly what I did! I had a memorable night filled with food, fun and fellowship with the Divas. This special evening started with getting picked up by Distinctive Limousines and taken to The Mark Restaurant (I was so excited when I found out where we would be dining). Initially, I was a bit apprehensive since I did not know any of

these ladies, but after formal introductions, it didn’t take long for us to begin chattering like women do. Once seated, our host JR treated us like royalty, explaining each dish served in such great detail that it made your mouth water. From the filet mignon tri-tip sliders (one of my favorites) to the decadent butter pound cake with french vanilla ice cream, everything was wonderful!

Butter pound cake

A FAREWELL NOTE FROM THE DINING DIVAS: As we bid adieu, this group of Diving Divas wishes to thank the restaurant owners and staff for opening their doors to us this year. We also want to think Tim Dobbs of Distinctive Limousines for chauffeuring us. Five different women from five different walks of life were brought together to enjoy the culinary treats that Bakersfield, and the surrounding areas, have to offer. We ended up building lasting friendships. This year has brought many life-changing events for each of us — from new jobs to a new life, a baby. We weathered the storm together only as Dining Divas would ... one bite at a time.

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FOOD AND WINE

SWEET BAKERSFIELD Try these goodies from five local bake shops sure to impress at any holiday party

By Hillary Haenes

Photos by April Massirio

ith the holidays fast-approaching, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, leaving little time for baking cookies and other sugary confections. If you’re too busy to bake or puzzled on what to bring to your next gettogether, here are five local bake shops sure to impress at any party.

De Coeur Bake Shop decoeurbakeshop@gmail.com; 2413405; decoeurbakeshop.4ormat.com

De Coeur — this bake shop’s name says it all. The translation of this French word means, “from the heart/of the heart,” and Mai Giffard, the owner and chef of De Coeur, practices making everything with thought and care. “French baked goods hold a special place in my heart as I was trained in classic French cooking in culinary school and studied abroad in Nice and Paris in college,” said Giffard, who grew up eating items from the French-Vietnamese bakeries she frequented with family. “That love is deeply ingrained in me, and I wanted to fuse it with my love for American baked goods and share it with the community.”

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

De Coeur Bake Shop’s popular macrons come in special holiday flavors.

De Coeur Bake Shop’s chocolate filled croissants, Thanksgiving croissant and plain croissants with glaze.

With an extensive menu of nut or fruit tarts, pie pops, sweet or savory croissants, croissant-donuts (or cro-nuts), cakes, petit fours and palmiers, Giffard stays busy as the sole proprietor of De Coeur since September. Giffard’s popular macrons also come in special holiday flavors like gingerbread, peppermint-chocolate, egg nog and whiskey-caramel. “As a transplant, I wanted to bring a bakery to Bakersfield that offered items residents normally have to drive to L.A., San Francisco or Santa Barbara to get,” she said. “One that uses the best ingredients to create quality artisan breads, pastries and confections and to specialize in custom pastry art to deliver impressive and innovative designs.” She tries to use local, seasonal produce to honor Kern County’s bountiful agriculture and hopes to sell her goods at local farmers markets next year while working on opening a storefront downtown location. The cherry on top? Giffard personally delivers to her customers.

Tastries Bakery 3665 Rosedale Highway; 322-1110; tastriesbakery.com

In less than a year, this bakery’s business has been booming because of its spectacular cake creations. Owner Cathy Miller opened Tastries in January after purchasing the former Cookies Couture bakery and keeping the same staff. “We continue to offer designer cakes and cookies made to order, and also provide a full-range of services from event planning, day-of coordination, dessert bar, decor arrangements and event rentals,” Miller said. Tastries Bakery sells seasonal baked goods, including breads, muffins and other pastries. Its cake and cookie decorators are highly talented and can make any design for special events. The “Happy Birthday Jesus” cake — a red and green velvet cake covered in fondant frosting adorned with a nativity scene using decorated cookies, fondant figurines and chocolate ganache — is a popular item among customers. Christmas cookies and cupcakes are also available in flavors like pumpkin spice, chai latte, black forest and spice.

Tastries Bakery sells seasonal baked goods, including this holiday cake.

With plans to expand its product line in 2014 to offer a variety of bread loafs, cinnamon rolls and a coffee bar, Tastries is worth multiple visits.

The Cookie Jar 1717 20th St.; 861-1002; thecookiejarbakersfield.com

Craving a festive sugar cookie? Stop by The Cookie Jar and visit owner Anita Tackett, who can help special order a cookie bouquet as a gift for someone, or she can put together a tray of assorted, decorative cookies for a social gathering. “Cookies are perfect to take to your holiday party or office meetings. You can call ahead, and we will have them ready for pickup. Cookies are an easy dessert to take anywhere,” said Tackett, who bakes dozens of cookies daily. She and daughter Christal, the cookie decorator, opened their downtown corner bakery in December 2011. A few years prior to opening, they stayed busy baking for friends and family, and eventually realized they needed to open up shop, said Tackett. This quaint shop specializes in cookies of all kinds, with lots of flavors that come in all shapes and sizes. The Cookie Jar sells cookie bouquets, cookie trays wrapped with a bow, boxes of assorted cookies and individual cookies. It’s a place

Continued on page 43 bakersfieldlife.com

BLife Dec2_BLife template 11/21/13 3:04 PM Page 42

Holiday nativity cakes from Tastries Bakery.

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Continued from page 41 where customers can take their cookies to go, or sit at a table to relax and enjoy their sweets. “We get requests all the time for cupcakes and cakes, so we have started offering cupcakes on Wednesdays and cakes by special order,” Tackett said.

Frosting Ink 1917 Eye St.; 326-1818; frostinginkbakeshop.com

Exciting things are happening at Frosting Ink. Relocating from its former G Street storefront to behind Metro Galleries on Eye Street isn’t its only recent change. “With this move I decided to re-brand myself,” said owner Sheila Heninger. “I’ve gone from a bright colored ‘Candy Land’ sweet shop to a sophisticated ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ bake shop — Tiffany blue walls with a splash of damask wallpaper, high ceilings, chandeliers and photos of Audrey Hepburn. Although the look has changed, you’ll still find your favorite sweets, as well as new ones.” Baking fresh goodies every day, Heninger continues to come up with new ideas for customers. She believes that presentation is just as important as taste, and that shows in her platters of babycakes, frosted cookies, cake pops, brown-

Frosting Ink’s holiday sweets.

Continued on page 44

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Continued from page 43 ies, marshmallow bars and chocolatedipped sweets decorated for the holiday season. These platters can be ordered with a 48-hour notice, Heninger said. “This has given us a chance to experience and truly appreciate the Downtown Arts District and the people who support it,” Heninger said. “We are expecting a great year ahead, 2014 will mark 10 years in business for Frosting Ink.”

Window Sill Pie Co. windowsillpieco@gmail.com; 769-6784; windowsillpieco.com

A business that concentrates on pies, that’s what Window Sill Pie Co. does best. This season, take your pick from pumpkin with a bourbon caramel sauce, classic pecan, classic apple, apple with sharp cheddar, cranberry white chocolate pecan or sweet potato pie with bourbon marshmallows.

Two of the many pies offered at Window Sill Pie Co.

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“I originally opened the company with a friend who attended culinary school and inspired me to explore exciting flavors and modern techniques,” said owner MarahStelle Jackson, who opened her business in September 2012. Starting out with an emphasis on jams, cookies and candy, Jackson gradually moved toward pies. Besides sweets, Window Sill also offers a variety of pickled items like pickles and carrots. You can find these homemade pies and other goods on First Fridays downtown or at the Kaiser Permanente Farmers Market across from The Marketplace on Sundays. Jackson also partnered with Muertos Kitchen & Lounge, which is the first restaurant to serve Window Sill’s pies for dessert. “Everything we make is from scratch with real ingredients,” Jackson said. “We also pride ourselves in getting nearly every piece of produce from local farmers.” If you’re looking for an inexpensive gift, don’t forget about the cranberry jams and jellies that can be used in a variety of ways.

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FOODIE

Ellie Fergon, an event coordinator and private chef, wraps salted caramels, which she makes regularly during the holidays. 46

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Rolling the caramel.

Salted caramels are ready for wrapping.

Salting the caramel.

-ELLIE FERGON Event coordinator, private chef loves to celebrate any occasion with friends, family and food By Hillary Haenes

Photos by April Massirio

llie Fergon loves to entertain and serve — at work and at home. “I wish I could host dinner parties every weekend — I am one to celebrate any occasion,” said Fergon, 29. During the day, she plans events at Cal State Bakersfield as the university’s event coordinator. In the evenings and on weekends, she works as a private chef, catering parties in people’s homes. Previously at Imbibe Wine & Spirits and Urner’s, Fergon now comes up with menus with wine pairings on her own and helps clients on a regular basis, providing them and their families meals for their daily lives. And during the holidays, it’s all about cooking with family and friends. “Cooking is important to me because I grew up baking with my family and learned to love being in the kitchen at an early age,” said Fergon, who also keeps busy with her 21month-old son, Luca. “There is something about the warmth of the holidays, that I welcome guests to hover in my kitchen

and enjoy rich, seasonal flavors, unlike any other time of year.” During family get-togethers in December, salted caramels are always on the menu. They go quickly, she said, and make a great gift, too. (See her recipe here). Interested in having Fergon cater your holiday party? Email her at elliefergon@me.com.

COOKING ADVICE My first experience in the kitchen: It was with my Nana, my mother’s mom, rolling out cinnamon rolls from scratch. She could do it in her sleep and made the perfect roll or pie. She never doubted anything while in the kitchen; she had a special touch. What I like to have on hand when family and friends visit: Cheese, crackers, salami and fruit; coffee because my family is Colombian; and a good bottle of wine to sip on. Everything goes better with: Wine and good company. I rock at making: Homemade bread. My cooking secret: Creating the perfect butter latte. Blend one tablespoon of grass-fed butter (Kerrygold) with a cup of coffee and sugar if you prefer. It’s divine and healthier than cream. How I find inspiration to create a new dish: Usually from my husband. He seems to know how to inspire me or just give me confidence when I’m frustrated or in a slump. One ingredient that I love to use: Fresh garlic. It provides a garlic flavor that granulated does not compare to.

Continued on page 48 bakersfieldlife.com

Ellie Fergon, center, hosts a dinner party for her freinds, serving winter squash minestrone soup and caramel for dessert.

Continued from page 47 If I could spend a day with a famous chef, it would be: Alton Brown from The Food Network because he seems to be unique, funny and so passionate about cooking any type of food and knows its history. Advice I would ask him: I would pick his brain on his fail-proof method of baking french macarons.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE Favorite piece of cooking equipment: A cast iron pan I got at a yard sale about five years ago for $3. Must-have kitchen tools: A good knife that fits your style and your size; Microplane zester; a solid wooden spoon; and good quality salt and pepper mills. Go-to cookbooks: Barefoot Contessa books and “The Sono Baking Co. Cookbook.” Spice cabinet essentials: Himalayan pink sea salt, black peppercorns, homemade blackening spice mix, garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Favorite cooking show: My husband and I don’t have cable, so when I turn on the TV, I enjoy watching the original “Julia Child” shows on PBS. I used to love watching “Chopped” because it gave me confidence to have more fun in the kitchen. Ingredients that I dislike: Zucchini (unless it’s in bread), white button mushrooms and walnuts. I buy this in bulk: Coconut oil, grass-fed butter, flour, onions, garlic and carrots. Also fruit snacks for Luca. Dream kitchen appliance: La Cornue Chateau 165 Cooker/Stove.

GLOBE-TROTTING Favorite cuisine: French. The local restaurant I want to eat at: Although my husband’s band Lonely Avenue plays at The Mark Restaurant 48

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December 2013

regularly, I have yet to eat there. I’ve heard great things. Best food memory: A recent one would be eating sushi made from a hippy chef while staring at the Big Sur coastline sunset on my five-year wedding anniversary. Best culinary destination: I’d have to say Napa Valley. Going to school there and experiencing some of the cuisine was outstanding. Eating at Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry restaurant is a must. Most experience meal: The French Laundry. With a three-hour dinner ending at midnight, the bill for two was close to a $1,000 with wine included. We ate what was on the prix fixe menu and not a bite less. Most surprising food I’m not crazy about: Black olives from a can.

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS Always in the fridge: Grass-fed butter, Sriracha, beer (sometimes my husband’s home brew — Bearded Brothers Brewery), almond milk, homemade garlic-dill pickles, apple butter and lots of jam. I’m addicted to: Jelly beans. Holiday cocktail: Eggnog with whiskey. Comfort food: Sloppy Joes. Specialty food shop: Dean & DeLuca (out of town) and locally Wood-Dale Market. Neighborhood restaurant and my order: Taco Fresco on California Avenue. I love the chilaquiles. Holiday dessert: Bread pudding with bourbon crème anglaise. Family recipe: From my husband’s side, it has to be the biscuits and gravy and cornbread stuffing. From my family, Nana’s cinnamon rolls and apple pie. My splurge at the grocery store: Wine, champagne and grass-fed beef. The single tastiest thing I’ve eaten this month: Guinness and cheddar beef stew pie.

Fleur De Sel Caramels Ingredients 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 1/2 cups sugar 1/4 cup light corn syrup 1 cup heavy cream 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 teaspoon fine fleur de sel, plus extra for sprinkling 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Directions: Prep the pan by lining an 8-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing it to drape over two sides, and then brush the paper lightly with vegetable oil. In a deep saucepan (6-by-4 1/2 inches), combine 1/4 cup water, the sugar and corn syrup and bring them to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil until the mixture is a warm, golden brown. Don’t stir — just swirl the pan. In the meantime, in a small pot, bring the cream, butter and 1 teaspoon of fleur de sel to a simmer over medium heat. Turn off the heat and set aside. When the sugar mixture is done, turn off the heat and slowly add the cream mixture to the sugar mixture. Be careful — it will bubble up violently. Stir in the vanilla with a wooden spoon and cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, until the mixture reaches 248 degrees (firm ball) on a candy thermometer. Very care-

Brush a knife with corn oil for easy cutting. fully (it’s hot!) pour the caramel into the prepared pan and refrigerate for a few hours, until firm. When the caramel is cold, pry the sheet from the pan onto a cutting board. Cut the square in half. Roll it up: Starting with a long side, roll the caramel up tightly into an 8inch-long log. Sprinkle the log with fleur de sel, trim the ends and cut into eight pieces. (Start by cutting the log in half, then continue cutting each piece in half until you have 8 equal pieces.) It's easier to cut the caramels if you brush the knife with flavorless oil like corn oil. Cut glassine or parchment paper into 4-by-5-inch pieces and wrap each caramel individually, twisting the ends. Store in the refrigerator and serve the caramels chilled.

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

Santa waves to the crowd during last year's Toy Run as he motors down 21st Street followed by about 6,000 others.

SEASON OF PARADES Bakersfield keeps traditional holiday parades alive with several winter street shows

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, which means holiday cheer, parties and, of course, parades. Bakersfield plays host to many good old fashioned holiday parades serving as traditions for our communities, and reminders of the excitement, cheer and anticipation of the holiday season. Here are a few canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t-miss winter parades this December.

DOWNTOWN TRADITION The Bakersfield Christmas Parade has featured 50

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December 2013

Springing out of the Jack in the Box is American Conservation Experience worker Laura Getts in last year's Bakersfield Christmas Parade.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

By Eduardo Gamez

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

the quintessential Bakersfield Christmas experience, and the longstanding tradition in downtown Bakersfield will be back this year for its 31st season. “This event will represent an old-fashioned Christmas,” said Sylvia Cariker, a coordinator for the parade, on the year’s theme. The city’s biggest parade expects to see more than 20,000 visitors, as well as the tradition of floats, marching bands, carriages and local performance groups. About 90 entries are expected, which will be judged by a panel. The parade, sponsored by Dignity Health, will be broadcast on KGET-TV Channel 17. The time-honored parade has thrived so long because of “such a committed crew who have been with the parade for years,” Cariker said. — 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, in downtown Bakersfield. Free. More information: bcparade.com

MERRY MOTORCYCLISTS

Continued on page 53

Santa Claus (Randy Boggs) waves to the crowd during the 2011 Bakersfield Christmas Parade downtown.

Children and their families line the sidewalks along North Chester Avenue during last year's NOR Children's Christmas Parade.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Thousands of motorcyclists will don their helmets and leather, but also Santa hats on their heads and sleigh

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bells and candy canes on their boots during another holiday parade that sets itself apart. The 30th Annual Bakersfield Toy Run and Food Drive is expected to host more than 6,000 motorcyclist riding through Bakersfield with stuffed animals, toy trucks and other toys in the name of helping needy children and families celebrate a merrier Christmas. Motorcycles, too, are decked out with garland, Christmas trees and lights. The ride is open to the public and requires $20 or equal value donation of toys or canned food. And it’s all organized by the local motorcycle and car community, said Don Oldaker, president of the drive. “All the proceeds go to the Salvation Army, and our goal this year is to reach $50,000,” he said, with hopes to reaching $100,000 in the future. Past rides have benefitted some 850 families with a holiday meal, a gift certificate for a turkey or ham, plus toys for children. The event will also feature a “Best of” competition, and live entertainment by the 1916 Irish rock band and Really Big Midgetz. — 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, from 21st and Oak streets to Kern County Fair Grounds. More information: 319.3666,

Continued on page 54

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

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OILDALE CHEER Much like the Bakersfield Christmas Parade, the 41st annual NOR Children’s Christmas Parade is a longstanding local holiday tradition, hosting a variety of entertainment for the entire family. Produced by North of the River Recreation and Park District, in conjunction with the Bakersfield Optimists, the parade aims to take visitors “back in time,” said Lisa Walker, special events coordinator with North of the River. This year’s theme is “Dreaming of Christmas.” “(The parade is) animal and people-propelled, has adorable kids and great people, is very children-oriented, and has great bands for entertainment,” she said. “It is relatively low-key, easy to enjoy, and a heart-warming experience that brings great holiday cheer.” The parade will also host judged competitions for a various categories and a “Santa Breakfast” for children and their parents to visit Santa before the parade. — 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, on North Chester Avenue in Oildale. Free. More information: 392.2060 or nor@norfun.org

Students from Standard Middle School carry their banner in last year's NOR Children's Christmas Parade.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CIVIC DANCE CENTER

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

Drosslemeyer, played by Kevin Trueblood, presents the nutcracker to Clara.

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra and Civic Dance Center present its homebred holiday tradition for 36th year By Eduardo Gamez

t’s a cozy Christmas Eve at the Stahlbaum’s house. Christmas decorations are all around, and a mysterious guest arrives at the holiday party, nearly frightening one of the children. The stranger bears gifts for the children, and one receives a beautiful nutcracker. As the children drift off into dreamland, they experience a magical journey. Sound familiar? It’s the classic holiday story of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffman. It’s been adapted into what is now known as the Nutcracker Ballet and has become a holiday tradition garnering international success in major cities, from New York to Tokyo — and Bakersfield. The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra and the Civic Dance Center will present its 36th Nutcracker Ballet during four showings from Dec. 13 to Dec. 15 at Rabobank Theater and 56

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Spenser Prow, left, and Nicholas Le perform in the 2010 Nutcracker Ballet.

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

A NUTCRACKER CHRISTMAS

Convention Center. Symphony president and CEO Bryan Burrow said the show features a dynamic performance by a “first-class live orchestra” that other city’s performances of the famous play may not have. “(Nutcracker Ballet is) a magical combination of story, performance and musical composition,” Burrow said. Making the show even more special, the hundreds of musicians, dancers and volunteers are primarily from Kern County, including the dancers from the Civic Dance Center. Center director and choreographer Cindy Trueblood said the Nutcracker Ballet provides “an important aspect of dance education and very rare opportunity for dancers to perform

PHOTO COURTESY OF CIVIC DANCE CENTER

This year will mark the 36th Nutcracker Ballet by Civic Dance Center and the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra.

with a live orchestra.” For months before the performances, the dancers practice their steps to Tchaikovsky’s ballet music. “Every dancer is a stand-out Nutcracker Ballet and has something special to When (four showings) give,” Trueblood said. “All of the • 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 kids work many hours and have a • 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 lot of dedication that makes the • 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14 performance special for everyone.” • 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15th Some of the performer roles Where: Rabobank Theater and have been double-cast, with Erica Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ueberroth and Shelby Hagelstein Ave. sharing the role of the Sugar Plum Ticket prices: $34-38 Fairy, Philip Fernandez and Austin More information, tickets: 323Erwin sharing the role of the cava7928, Ticketmaster, Rabobank box office and bsonow.org lier, and Katie Walsh and Kimberly Marquez playing Clara. Ueberroth, who has been dancing since she was five years old and with the Civic Dance Center since 1993, said the classic performance here is a “staple in the community.” “I continue to participate because I feel like it is my second family,” Ueberroth said. “It is also one of the classic repertoire ballets, and to be part of history is incredibly special.”

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HOMETOWN HERO

MARY KATHY JACKSON Command sergeant major, U.S. Army Compiled by Eduardo Gamez

Photos courtesy of Mary Kathy Jackson

hen Mary Kathy Jackson was attending Bakersfield College, she wasn’t doing so well academically, she said. So two best friends and her decided to join the U.S. Army on a buddy system. “As I look back over the years, this was by far the best

Bakersfield native Mary Kathy Jackson has served for 32 years.

Mary Kathy Jackson, a command sergeant major in the U.S. Army, was assigned in Kuwait during Christmas 2012.

decision of my life,” said Jackson, 51, who has been active and on reserve for 32 years. The command sergeant major, from the 402nd Army Field Support Battalion, is stationed at Fort Eustis in Virginia, but has been assigned to southwest Asia and Camp Arifjan in Kuwait. She also was deployed to Iraq in 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Learn more about this hometown hero here. Where I’ve served: I deployed to Iraq in 2005-06 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While serving in Iraq, I had the opportunity help a country in need. Recently, I returned to Iraq for a mission to complete base closures. It was interesting to see the changes in a country that was once corrupt, but now, a new government is in place and their economy is growing. Violence is still present, but overall, a change was made and I feel honored to be a part of history that aided in the rebuilding of Iraq. Accomplishments: Achieving the rank of command sergeant major. I was also able to obtain my degree. I currently hold a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in military operations. 58

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December 2013

Best lessons I learned: How to be a good leader. To be a good leader, you must live the seven Army values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. These values are the ingredients to my leadership style. How the Army changed my life: The Army instilled disciplined. It motivated me to strive and achieve. Also, while serving in Virginia, I met my husband Benny Jackson. We have been married for 23-1/2 years. We have two children (Benny III and Briana), both attending Virginia Commonwealth University. Favorite memory while serving: Attending and completing drill sergeant school. As a drill sergeant, I had the opportunity to teach new recruits every aspect of basic combat training, which means I had the role and responsibility of shaping recruits into soldiers. I loved the early mornings of conducting physical training and singing cadence as they march in step. If I were not in the Army, I would be … living in Bakersfield, probably working law enforcement or corrections. What I would like to accomplish next year: Start planning for my retirement. What I will do after the Army: Currently, I am a member of the Army Reserve, and I also work for U.S. Department of Defense, civil service. I love to travel, so once I retire, my desire is to travel to various places, and my first stop will be St. Lucia and then on to Australia. For more on Jackson, including her favorite parts about visiting Bakersfield and advice for women wanting to join the military, go to bakersfieldlife.com — Do you know a Kern County resident who has served honorably in the military, or is currently serving? Email us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Hometown Hero. Please include an email, phone number and/or Facebook link to reach the nominee.

ON THE ROAD

Bakersfield Life assistant managing editor Jorge Barrientos stands next to the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which starts at $29,900.

2014 MERCEDESBENZ CLA Too good to be true? Luxury vehicle maker introduces new model that won’t break the bank By Jorge Barrientos

Photos by Michael Lopez

restige, performance, and pretty are just a few “p” words that can be used to describe a MercedesBenz. We can add one more with the release of the all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA — price. That’s because the luxurious CLA starts at under $30,000. It’s a price so hard to believe for this iconic luxury brand that local dealerships are having a hard time keeping these on their lots, they say. “People are wondering if it’s for real,” said Campbell Cameron, sales consultant for Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield. “Is it too good to be true? Are you sure that’s the sticker price?” Yes, it’s true and that’s the price, Cameron assures them, and off they go from the lot. It helps, too, that Mercedes-Benz 60

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December 2013

The overall layout of the CLA looks and feels classy, including the stitching throughout the interior. doesn’t hold back, giving you plenty of bang for your buck. The sedan coupe flaunts a turbocharged 2-liter inline, four-cylinder engine with 208-horsepower, front-wheel drive, and the same seven-speed transmission that comes in the

Sangera Automotive Group in Bakersfield is having a hard time keeping the CLA in stock. The CLA boasts a 5.8-inch tablet-style central screen for entertainment and navigation. powerful AMG model. With commendable power and handling, and fiery performance, the CLA can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. It burst onto the scene in the United States on Super Bowl Sunday, with the commercial for the CLA giving millions a sneak peek. It helps that the likes of model Kate Upton and music artist Usher have backed it. Local dealerships got the car in late October. Young and older have flocked to get a glimpse. The young are jumping at the chance to buy an affordable luxury car, local and the older folks, who have always wanted a Mercedes-Benz but maybe don’t want to spend too much, can be happy with this CLA. “It’s an introduction to the brand for those who cannot afford the most expensive models,” said Hassan Halevy, director of marketing for Bakersfield’s Sangera Automotive Group. “But the CLA is still a Mercedes-Benz, one of those icons that states, ‘You made it’.” He added: “And it’s a hot car. It’s a sexy car.” Besides the price, prestige and performance mentioned already, the CLA is flat out pretty — there is no skimping here. The overall layout looks and feels classy, from the bejeweled grille to the stitching in the interior, the 5.8-inch tablet-style central screen for entertainment and navigation, and the individual maneuverable air vents. Other standard features include rain-sensing wipers, Bluetooth connectivity, 10 airbags, adaptive braking and a driver warning system. And you can add countless other features, including blind spot assist, a lane departure warning system, rear view camera and active parking assist, navigation, in-vehicle Internet, illuminated emblems, sunroof, spoilers and much more. And it’s fuel efficient, boasting 26 city and 38 highway mpg. The standard Eco start-stop, which shuts the car off when idling and starts back up automatically when you’re ready to go, will save you even more. In May, before it was released Car and Driver called the CLA one of its 25 cars worth waiting for. Now that it’s on the street, the response continues to be stellar. BBC said the CLA “redefines what a Mercedes-Benz can be and who can afford to drive one.” And the Wall Street Journal said the CLA’s “real appeal is in the optics. It looks like a winner.” In short, it’s affordable and exceptional, and an ultra-competitive entry-level luxury sedan.

It’s all in the details Mileage: 26 city, 38 highway Price tag: Starting at $29,900 What makes the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA stand out from others? Besides the aggressive starting price, the styling of the CLA is cutting edge and encompasses a design philosophy that is inherent throughout the Mercedes-Benz lineup, and already shared with our completely redesigned 2014 S-Class. It’s different coupe architecture with sedan functionality is not commonplace, and it provides the perfect balance of both worlds in a very competitive market by appealing to prospective owners of all ages. 5 best features • Safety • Price • Performance, technology • Design, looks • Value Target customer: Designed from the beginning as an entry into a certain price segment, it affords the opportunity for people who previously thought that owning a Mercedes-Benz was just not feasible the realization that the car of their dreams is truly attainable. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA is perfect for… anyone who enjoys luxury, comfort and performance at an incredible value. But it also makes sense for the vast majority of luxury sedan buyers. Three words that define the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA: • Innovative • Captivating • $29,900… Yes, way! What do you like most about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA? The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a statement kind of car. It captures your attention and has a long-term plan for keeping you captivated. From its bold looks, to the brilliant way each element works — and works together — the CLA is engineered not just thoroughly, but thoughtfully. Source: Hassan Halevy, Director of Marketing, Sangera Automotive Group

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ON THE ROAD

HONDA’S ULTIMATE HYBRID 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid offers green benefits, space, strong performance

By Olivia Garcia

Photos by Mark Nessia

he more I test drive hybrids, the more I become impressed with them. And my latest test drive in the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid only reinforced my thinking that hybrid cars are going to become the popular choice among many motorists. For one, I can’t get over the power and comfort the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid offers. Sure, I have been in regular Honda Accords belonging to friends, and I have been impressed with their lasting reliability for owners, one that spans over a number of years of driving. And the gas savings — wow. The 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid averages nearly 50 mpg. Imagine that. I used to assume that driving a hybrid would equal basic 62

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December 2013

car amenities and less power to make up for the energy efficiency. But I have been wrong about that. The regenerative braking system supports the hybrid system, and it comes in three driving modes: EV, hybrid and engine. In EV, the hybrid uses only the electric motor at lower speeds. It is great for light-load, highway cruising, Honda Accord officials say. The hybrid drive is a mix of power from the 2-liter, four cylinder engine and the large 124-kilowatt electric drive motor. This mode is great for urban driving and powerful acceleration, said Matthew Lopez, sales representative for Barber Honda. The engine drive mode is set to send power to the front wheels without involving the electric motor, and this can be useful for medium- to high-speed cruising, Lopez said.

The Accord Hybrid averages nearly 50 mpg.

I was satisfied enough driving it using the EV and hybrid driving modes. My husband, Julio, and I took the Honda Accord Hybrid on a spin for a dinner date with friends in town, and we were impressed. The hybrid I test drove relies on an electronic CVT (transmission) for a smooth drive and an Earth Dreams engine, which relies on technology that improves the internal combustion components as well as the electric-powered motored technology, Lopez said. “It has a lot of power,” Lopez said. “It is one of the first hybrids that feels like a regular sedan. The Honda Sport looks similar to the Honda Hybrid.” But it is so quiet. So quiet, in fact, that I keep thinking the car must be turned off. It’s clever enough to tell you that’s not the case. Not only that, this hybrid is spacious, for passengers and in the trunk. Three of my friends, Drake Massey, Erica Garza Lopez and Evie Elizalde, easily fit in the back seat of the hybrid as they joined Julio and me for a post 11-mile run lunch. They could not believe they were in the hybrid and found themselves interested in the car, asking me more details about it. My football player-sized boys and their friends also enjoyed riding in the hybrid from after-practice pickups. But there were two other things that sold me: For one, the Pandora app is built into the entertainment center so once you Bluetooth your phone’s Pandora app to it, your Pandora app will pop up, and you can even like or dislike a certain song on the entertainment screen. The second thing, which is a big deal for me, is the technology, including the Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning and LaneWatch systems, to name a few. A built-in camera, for example, shows your blind spot whenever you are about to make a right turn. My friends were floored. According to the Chicago Tribune, the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid made the list as one of the top best cars to buy next year by Green Car Reports, which focuses on cleaner autos. John Voelcker of Green Car Reports told the Tribune that “Honda has managed to pull off a neat trick. Against competitors that have been in the market several years, its first-ever full hybrid [unlike the 2005] matches the best of the breed for styling and interior quality, while also delivering among the highest real-world gas mileage as well.”

The Accord Hybrid’s technology features include a Pandora app built into the entertainment center.

It’s all in the details Mileage: The city mileage is 50 mpg and 45 mpg on the highway with a combined 47 mpg. Price tag: The starting price of the new 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid is $29,945. What makes the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid stand out from others? It stand outs by its price point and performance while not sacrificing mileage and style. This vehicle also changes between the three drive modes seamlessly: hybrid drive, gasoline-only drive, and 100 percent electric drive. This allows the Accord Hybrid to achieve maximum fuel efficiency. 5 best features: Fuel efficiency, push start, Eco Assist, rearview camera, and lane watch camera. The 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid is perfect for… the environment and great gas mileage while maintaining style and performance. Three words that define the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid: Fuel efficient, affordable and stylish. What do you like most about the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid? The drive. Thanks to Honda engineers and the first-ofits-kind electronic CVT, driving this car feels more like driving an Accord than a hybrid electric vehicle. I’m also thankful for all the standard safety features, including Honda’s exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) II body structure, which features additional materials to increase the Accord Hybrid’s frontal crash perfomance. Source: Jonathan Ekegren, General Sales Manager, Barber Honda

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WHY I LIVE HERE

PAOLA FERNANDEZ

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

For recent CSUB grad and ‘dreamer,’ Bakersfield served as land of opportunity

Paola Fernandez, who moved here from Mexico at age 4, graduated from CSUB recently and is a local advocate for immigrant rights.

Compiled by Eduardo Gamez

aola Fernandez moved to Bakersfield from Mexico at the age of 4 with her family. Her parents, she said, were looking for a better life for their young family, and Bakersfield and the United States served as the land of opportunity. Part of that hope came to fruition last June, when Fernandez graduated from Cal State Bakersfield with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. The 27-year-old calls it one of her biggest accomplishments because she didn’t give up through her studies even though she wasn’t sure she would be able to use her degree. Fernandez remains undocumented, but the national “deferred action” decision allowed her to obtain a work permit, driver’s license and Social Security number. Today, Fernandez is a local advocate for immigrant rights and works for California Partnership, a statewide coalition of community-based groups fighting to reduce and end poverty. My neighborhood: I live on the east side of Bakersfield in an area where people own horses, chickens and goats. I was once late to a meeting because there was a goat on top of my car. What I enjoy most about Bakersfield: I like that there is always something to do. I wish I had more time so I could go to all the art exhibits, plays and special events that are put on locally. Best memories of living here: I have the best memories at Hart Park. You can enjoy having a barbecue with family

and friends, and get away from the heat a little bit. Favorite thing to do in Bakersfield: First Friday. I enjoy the art exhibits with my sister, friends and boyfriend. We will see art, and then hit Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar, and maybe go dancing to the awesome tunes of Mento Buru. What still surprises me about Bakersfield: We have a friendly community. While sometimes differences can arise, I think that people are very willing to work together to solve issues and make the quality of life better for all the Kern County residents. How I would describe Bakersfield to outsiders: Bakersfield is a big place with a small-town feel. There are many people here with huge hearts. I would not have been able to graduate from school if it wasn’t for certain individuals who gave me scholarships and lots of love. As an immigrant rights activist, what do you hope to achieve in our community? I hope that we can continue to win the hearts and minds of people. Immigrants are here to work hard, and that makes our communities stronger ... I think that our society is embracing immigrants more with each passing year. People didn’t know what a “dreamer” was a few years ago, and now when I say I’m a “dreamer.” People understand that I am a young undocumented individual who loves this country. — Do you know someone from outside of town, state or country who now calls Bakersfield home, and is proud of it? Please let us know. Email us a name and contact information to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Why I Live Here. bakersfieldlife.com

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

ALEX NICHOLS Bakersfield Christian High tennis star rising through the ranks at Cal Lutheran

Alex Nichols, a Bakersfield Christian High graduate, is ranked on Cal Lutheranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roster as No. 2 in singles and No. 1 for doubles.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

By Stephen Lynch

Photos by Tracy Maple

f you decided to ask Alex Nichols about the biggest accomplishment of his tennis career, be prepared to get multiple answers. That’s because there have been so many special moments on the tennis court for the 22-year-old Bakersfield Christian High School grad that he can’t really narrow it down to just one. As high school player at Bakersfield Christian, he won a Central Section singles title and was instrumental in the Eagles capturing four section team championships. During two years at San Diego Mesa College, he led the Olympians to a pair of league championships and was twice named a Junior College All-American. And earlier this year, he helped California Lutheran University take third place, its highest finish ever, at the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Indoor National Championships in Minnesota. “I’ve had a lot of really big highlights,” Nichols said. Last year, as a junior at the NCAA Division III Cal Lutheran, Nichols earned AllSouthern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors after posting a 16-9 record in singles and 16-10 mark in doubles. He ended the season as the No. 23 ranked singles player in the West Region. But the biggest highlight of the year for the 5-foot, 8-inch, 150-pound Nichols was his 6-4, 6-1 singles win that clinched a Cal Lutheran victory over UC Santa Cruz in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Nichols was recruited by Cal Lutheran and several other colleges out of high school. But poor grades and less than stellar SAT scores was a roadblock. “I was really unmotivated in high school, and I honestly didn’t really care about my grades,” Nichols said. “I wish I could go back and change that.” Despite being unable to play tennis at the four-year college of his choice immediately, Nichols made the best of the situation

Nichols transferred to Cal Lutheran from San Diego Mesa College.

and attended San Diego Mesa College. During his two-year junior college career, Nichols was 38-15 in singles and 25-12 in doubles. During the 2010 season, he qualified for the state championships in singles and doubles. Nichols was the two-time Pacific Coast Athletic Conference player of the year, winning the singles and doubles titles during his freshman and sophomore years. “It was awesome,” Nichols said. “We had a really good team. It was good prep for (NCAA) Division III, where I’m at now.” An improved student and tennis player, he jumped toward Cal Lutheran his junior year, where he’s studying business. His success on the tennis court has come from a diverse set of skills. “I’m pretty agile,” Nichols said. “I’m very quick on the court, I’m consistent, I don’t miss much, and I have pretty good hands. I get good feel for the ball, and I can move the ball, manipulate the ball, pretty well around the court. I’m not a big guy ... I’m just quick and consistent.” Currently he is listed on the Cal Lutheran roster at No. 2 in singles and No. 1 for doubles. He enters his senior season of college tennis with a few goals in mind. “I would love for our team to stay within the top 10 in the nation,” said Nichols, whose school is No. 7 now. “But it’s going to be really difficult ... Personally I want to have an overall winning record, but I just really want to give it my all every match.”

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Country Club. Played four years of varsity tennis at Bakersfield Christian High School; won the Central Section singles title as a sophomore. Selected in 2007 as The Bakersfield Californian’s All-Area Boys Tennis Singles Player of the Year. Was a first-team All-Area selection four years of high school. Chosen Most Outstanding Player of the Year for 2010-11 at San Diego Mesa College.

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TA L K O F T H E TO W N

Bakersfield’s Red Simpson performs at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. In the background is Kenny Vaughan.

BAKERSFIELD SOUND ENCORE Popular exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville back for 2014 By Brian N. Willhite

Photos by Henry A . Barrios

he Bakersfield Sound is back for an encore performance as the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville extends its popular exhibition — “The Bakersfield Sound: Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and California Country” — for another year, ending in December of

2014. The exhibit, opened in March of last year, was originally intended to close its doors this month, but it seems that our Bakersfield roots have grown deep into Nashville. And the 68

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December 2013

familiar sound that Owens, Haggard and other hometown troubadours put on the map has contributed to a record attendance of nearly 600,000 visitors last year, said Tina Wright, senior director of media relations at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It’s largely thanks to the “larger than life” image of Owens and Haggard, who have become synonymous with the Bakersfield brand of country music with fans around the world, said Michael Gray, museum editor and co-curator of the Bakersfield Sound exhibit. The wealth of culture in the museum also gives visitors an engaging trip down our historic streets with a look at all of the players that dominated the airwaves and filled the honky tonks on Chester Avenue. “While the iconic names Buck Owens and Merle Haggard might attract people to the exhibit, visitors will see that their talent and careers didn’t appear in a vacuum,” Gray said. “They will learn about Bakersfield’s rich musical heritage and hopefully better understand how the region’s music scene was strong enough to bolster such high-caliber artists.” The museum in 2014 will add more exhibit-enhancing features including the role of the Fender Telecaster, the songs of Merle Haggard and a presentation on honky tonk music.

Take a peek at some of the garments worn by the artists and students can enjoy educational, multimedia programs about Bakersfield and its music, said Ali Tonn, director of education and public programs.

HOMETOWN MUSEUM If you’re interested in learning more about our local contribution to country music but can’t make 4,000-mile round trip to Nashville, there’s much Country Music Hall of to see and Fame and Museum: learn about The Bakersfield Sound the BakersVisit: Until Dec. 31, 2014 field Sound Where: 222 5th Avenue South in era right in Nashville, Tenn. our own Videos, more information: backyard. bit.ly/GRb5K6 You don’t Tickets: countrymusichalloffame.org have to look far to find that some of these country legends preserved in the hall of fame can still be seen here in town, along with the places made famous by the Bakersfield Sound.

An Interstate 5 sign leads visitors of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum visitors to the “Bakersfield Sound” exhibit.

Thomas Rockwell, owner of Trout’s and country music historian, has committed to keeping the last-standing honky tonk alive and kicking in Bakersfield, bringing a variety of musical entertainment to its stage, including some of the legendary acts of the day.

Continued on page 71

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Julia Cibettini from St. Louis tries one of the interactive displays at the “Bakersfield Sound” exhibit.

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Continued from page 69 Opened since 1931, Trout’s became a key venue in the evolution of the Bakersfield music scene, as well as becoming a centerpiece in the community. Today’s Trout’s pays tribute to past generations with memorabilia, photographs, and artwork lining the walls offering a comprehensive narrative of the people that made the Bakersfield Sound what it is. The Bakersfield Sound definition is open for interpretation, said Rockwell, also the host of RFD TV’s “True Country.” Some may view the Telecaster twang as being that signature sound, while others credit the storytelling. “It’s really just something, an energy, that rooted into a soil that was fertilized by the hearts of people who understood a lot more about life than today’s generation,” Rockwell said. During his trip to the Nashville exhibit opening, Rockwell was impressed with the attention received by the artists of the Bakersfield Sound era, including world-renowned lyricist Red Simpson, he said. In fact, Simpson’s popularity expands the world. At the Muddy Roots festival in Tennessee earlier this year, Simpson was invited to be one of the top headlining acts. “I got up on that stage, and they wanted to hear some truck-driving songs so that’s what they got,” Simpson said. “There must have been 2,000 people in that audience, and

A display at the "Bakersfield Sound" exhibit in Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame features Red Simpson memorabilia. they knew every song I was doing and singing along with me.” Still, Simpson performs regularly at Trout’s. “Everybody says, ‘Why do you play in that little dump for?’” Simpson said, with a grin and a chuckle. “And I say, ‘cause I like it. I feel at home here.’”

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FOR A CAUSE

Six-year-old Asuncion Diaz looks for a special toy with the help of CHP officer Scott Whittaker at last year's CHiPS for Kids toy distribution.

CHIPS FOR KIDS TOY DRIVE By Bakersfield Life Magazine

hildren and young teenagers typically see law enforcement officers as authority figures and at times, not in the best of light. Yet California Highway Patrol officer Robert Rodriguez says police officers are regular people who care about everyone’s safety. And during the holiday season, CHP officers, with the help of The Bakersfield Californian, Motor City Buick GMC of Bakersfield and United Way, strive to change those perceptions. “They get to see us as actual people who really do care,” said Rodriguez, CHP public information officer. From Nov. 18 through Dec. 16, CHP and partners play Santa’s helpers during the annual CHiPs for Kids toy drive, collecting new unwrapped gifts for thousands of children. Last year, some 3,000 children were handed gifts as

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Calixta Diaz receives safety tips from Santa after picking a new bike at last year's CHiPS for Kids toy distribution.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

California Highway Patrol and partners team up to collect Christmas town for children

Christmas presents through referrals from Kern County Network for Children, an agency of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office that works with social service agencies to help sick and disadvantaged children. Each year, more and more toys are collected, and organizers don’t expect things to change this year. “Every year it seems to get bigger and better with more participants,” Rodriguez said. “This community is loving and caring. They really are.” Several toy drop off drives take place through the holi-

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

CHP public information officer Robert Rodriguez collects toys in front of The Bakersfield Californian during last year’s CHiPs for Kids toy drive.

day season, including a collection in front of CHiPs for Kids The Bakersfield CaliToy Drive fornian in downtown Toy collection: Through Dec. 16 Bakersfield, broadDistribution: Monday, Dec. 23 casted live on the web More information: Facebook, “Bakand radio, and anothersfield CHiPs for Kids” er at Motor City, where Motor City Toy Drop Off community member Bring an unwrapped gift to donate help fill up several When: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. truck beds full of toys. The program is a Where: Motor City Buick GMC, 3101 Pacheco Road chance for company Extra: Free pictures with Santa, hot employees and their chocolate, lunch and more. families to give back. For years, The CaliThe Bakersfield Californian Community Event fornian employees Bring an unwrapped gift to donate, and have promoted and meet CHP officers with their new participated in events patrol cars and motorcycles that support giving When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. during the holidays, 12. and last year Where: The Bakersfield Californian, employess partnered 1707 Eye St. with the public. Watch or listen live: On First Look “We were overwith Scott Cox and KERN Radio 1180 whelmed by the genExtra: Free coffee, hot chocolate, erosity of community food, candy cane. members,” said Nancy Chaffin, The Californian’s vice president of operations and administration.“Toys overwhelm our office, and every employee that drops off a toy has a big smile on his and her face.” It’s a special time for Motor City staff, too. “Too often we underestimate what one person can do to touch a life of another,” said John Pitre, Motor City Auto Center general manager. “We embrace the opportunity to support our community and bring joy to these kids this season.” On collection day, referred children are given a token good for one toy, escorted by a police officer or one of several volunteers. Other partners have included Walgreens, Chevron, Starbucks, United Way of Kern County, Keller Williams Realty of Bakersfield and Network for Children.

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Anthony Dahl, center, enjoys a Hanukkah doughnut during the festivities of the annual Public Menorah Lighting in 2010 at The Marketplace. Bakersfield Mayor Harvey Hall is to the left, and Rabbi Shmarya Katzen is to the right.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Happy Holidays Whether Jewish, Orthodox Christian or African culture celebrations, Bakersfield is host to a broad range of holiday festivities.

By Louis Medina

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

for all!

s the year draws to a close, a surge of religious and cultural holidays energizes Bakersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse faith and ethnic communities. The celebrations range from a festival to commemorate the rededication of a famous temple and the celebration of a spiritual saviorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth to the reaffirmation of a common culture and heritage. Although different from one another, these celebrations share some common threads, including a respect for tradition, a desire to gather together with others of like mind, and a yearning to do good and spread holiday cheer. We thought Bakersfield Life readers would appreciate learning about some of these colorful traditions, and when and where, locally, they happen this holiday season. What follows is a small sampling; it is not intended to be all inclusive of the many wonderful options available in our town.

Continued on page 76 bakersfieldlife.com

The menora is a central symbol in the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah.

Continued from page 75

Bakersfield Life Magazine

African art, vendors, speakers and the Oblinyanko Drum & Dance Ensemble are part of the celebration during the annual Kwanzaa celebration at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in Bakersfield.

African heritage celebrations The cultural festival known as Kwanzaa is a pan-African celebration, according to local Bakari Sanyu. “It’s how African Americans express their heritage and culture in America,” said Sanyu, director of The Sankofa Collective, the group that puts on Bakersfield’s Kwanzaa celebration each year. Kwanzaa begins on Dec. 26 and continues through Jan. 1. “Our community group chooses one day out of that seven-day time frame to have a community celebration,” he said. This year the date chosen is Friday, Dec. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center at 1000 South Owens St. at Martin Luther King Park. Attendees to the free event, where persons from all ethnic groups are welcome, can expect to see African art, enjoy drum and dance performances, listen to African storytelling and purchase a variety of cultural merchandise from vendors, Sanyu said. “Everyone is strongly encouraged to wear African attire to the event to promote

December 2013

Chazlin Pearson peaks through the Kwanzaa candles at the Kwanzaa Celebration in 2010 at the Martin Luther King Community Center. the ambiance and essence of the festivity,” said Sanyu. Where can you buy African clothing locally? Sanyu has the answer: “Just Google ‘African attire,’ and you’ll get pages and pages and pages of vendors that sell it.” For more information, call 319-7611.

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

The eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights called Hanukkah (or Chanukah) has just ended, as it began on the eve of Thanksgiving this year. Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of the month of Kislev on the Hebrew Calendar, which, depending on the year, can fall in November or December on the Gregorian Calendar. Esther Schlanger, co-director of Chabad of Bakersfield, in southwest Bakersfield, said Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the Jewish temple at Jerusalem after it had been desecrated by the Syrians in the second century before the common era. Schlanger explains that the festival commemorates a miracle that happened when the oil needed to light the candelabra (or menorah) at the temple had to be replenished, as there was only enough of it to last one day. But when the people came back with the precious fuel after an eight-day trek, they learned that the small amount of oil had kept the menorah lit the entire time. Today, Hanukkah is traditionally celebrated in the home, where family members light the menorah each night of the festival, Schlanger said. “We do family programs, where we get together as a community once or twice for a public lighting of the menorah,” she said. “But really, every person should light a menorah in their own home.” Chabad of Bakersfield leads a traditional lighting of the menorah at The Marketplace shopping center at 9000 Ming Ave., in southwest Bakersfield on the Sunday that falls during Hanukkah — on Dec. 1 this year. For more information, go to chabadofbakersfield.com.

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

Jewish jubilee

Christian traditions

CATHOLIC For many local Hispanic Catholics, the joyous mood of the season begins early in the month of December, with the celebration of the Feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, believed to be a manifestation of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. The actual feast day is Dec. 12, but some local churches, like Lamont’s St. Augustine Church at 10601 Myrtle Ave., hold processions in honor of the Virgin the Sunday before. Then, beginning about nine days prior to Christmas, some Hispanic Catholic congregations, including St. Augustine, may celebrate Posadas (pronounced “poh-sah-dahs”), which are nightly reenactments of Mary and her husband Joseph’s futile search for lodging in Bethlehem prior to Jesus’ birth. Joseph and Mary are turned away each night of Posadas

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

In America, you would have to have been sleeping under a rock for many years to lack at least some knowledge of Christmas, which is a big part of the mainstream culture and celebrated by Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox Christian churches alike. But the celebration of the birth of Christ, who Christians believe was God come to dwell among humans as a man himself, takes on a wide range of expressions among different denominations — and it is not always observed on Dec. 25.

A hand grips a rosary during prayer at St. Augustine Church in Lamont following the posada celebration. leading up to Christmas Eve, when the Christmas miracle happens, said St. Augustine’s secretary Alejandrina Gonzalez. “The last day is when we rejoice because our savior is born,” Gonzalez said. Information about the various Catholic celebrations, including Posadas and Midnight Mass schedules, can be obtained by phoning the different local parishes. Visit dioceseoffresno.org, and click on the “Parishes” tab to find contact

Continued on page 79

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PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

From left: Nestor, Susana and Emma Muralles walk down the aisle of St. Augustine Church in Lamont during a posada celebration, recreating Joseph and Mary's search for shelter in Bethlehem.

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December 2013

Continued from page 77 details for a church in your area.

PROTESTANT The Rev. Karen Stoffers-Pugh, pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church at 1314 Oswell St. in east Bakersfield, said the festivities at her congregation begin with what is called “the hanging of the green,” the decoration of the sanctuary and fellowship hall in a Christmas theme. This usually happens on the first Sunday of Advent, a season that begins on the fourth Sunday prior to Christmas Day, which this year is Dec. 1. The decorating is accompanied by singing, fellowship and a potluck meal, she said. Amid all the holiday hubbub, Stoffers-Pugh said, the faithful are encouraged to ask themselves, “What are you doing to make the world a better place?” Some of Wesley church’s congregants’ good deeds include partnering with local charities to buy gifts and prepare holiday food baskets for the poor, and going Christmas caroling together. And who gets to enjoy their singing? “We mainly go and see people who are homebound,” she said. “Usually seniors and folks who are not able to come to church because of physical limitations.” The church’s Christmas Eve “service of lessons and carols” incorporates readings of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, Gospel readings from the New Testament about his birth, and traditional Christmas hymns, Stoffers-Pugh said. For more information, go to wesleybakersfield.org.

ORTHODOX Another congregation that celebrates Christmas Eve with lots of lessons and songs is St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church, at 9200 White Lane in southwest Bakersfield. One difference, however, is that St. Demiana’s Christmas Eve is not celebrated on Dec. 24, but rather on Jan. 6. “The Coptic Church, which is the Christian Church that stayed in Egypt, stayed with the old calendar, which is the Julian calendar,” said St. Demiana member Inas Michael. Under that calendar, Christmas is observed on Jan. 7, she said. This is why the Christmas Divine Liturgy begins in the evening on Jan. 6 and ends after midnight, Michael said. It is a solemn yet joyous service combining scripture readings, songs and even a fast that is broken just after midnight with a simple communal meal. “You are opening yourself to do what God wants,” Michael said. “What the church concentrates on is the spiritual meaning of Christmas: that our Lord Jesus Christ took on flesh to bring salvation to humanity. We try to stay away from the consumer materialism of Christmas.” Children receive religious gifts from the church related to the season, Michael said, things like icons of the nativity, age-appropriate spiritual books, or backpacks with Biblical verses on them. “The idea of the gifts comes from the three kings who gave gifts to Baby Jesus,” she said, referencing the New Testament story of the wise men from the east who followed a star that led them to the place where the Christ Child was. Because Jan. 6 and 7 may fall on school days, some Coptic parents may choose to keep their children home from school on those days in observance of Christmas, Michael said. For more information, go to stdemianacoc.org/wp/. bakersfieldlife.com

Holiday food C

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hristmas turkey or ham are so mainstream. Which is not to say they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t taste good, just that there are a number of other foods that are delicious and quite popular in their own right among communities that make them a must-have part of their year-end holiday table spread. Consider the following holiday foods enjoyed by very different faiths and ethnic groups.

Latke, potato pancakes, are traditionally eaten during Hanukkah.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

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Jerk chicken is a Caribbean dish often served during the Kwanzaa celebration.

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Fried foods for Hanukkah Esther Schlanger, co-director of Chabad of Bakersfield, said because oil has a special symbolism in Hanukkah, as it was traditionally used to keep the Jewish menorah (a multi-branched candelabra) lit, foods cooked in oil are popular during the eight-day holiday. “We eat potato latke (pronounced “lot-key”) that look like potato pancakes,” she said, “and doughnuts, because they’re fried in oil.”

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Christmas tamales Popular among the Mexican and Central American communities, tamales are traditionally prepared by mothers and grandmothers eager to treat their families to the steamy goodness of masa (corn dough) wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, and embedded with a tasty variety of fillings: from cheese or beef, to pork or chicken, and even jalapeño peppers. For many Hispanic Catholics, a traditional Christmas would not be complete without a tamale dinner following midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

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Foods rooted in Africa and the Caribbean Local Kwanzaa celebration organizer Bakari Sanyu said foods popular among various African or Caribbean cultures, and the African American community, are often consumed during Kwanzaa. They include fried plantain bananas, African seasonings, jerk chicken (marinated in hot spices), gumbo and popular African-American dishes such as corn bread and black eyed peas.

Tamales are a staple during the holiday season for Hispanic Catholics.

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PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Yolanda Alford performs with the Oblinyanko Drum and Dance Ensemble during the Kwanzaa celebration at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center.

Did you know?…

Although the festival celebrates African traditions and the African American experience, it is, strictly speaking, an American creation and there is no celebration of a holiday named Kwanzaa anywhere on the African continent. Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, but rather a cultural celebration of family, community, and the common connection to Africa shared by African Americans. The name Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase meaning “first fruits”— as in the first fruits of the harvest.

… about the Coptic Church’s nativity fast and other strict fasts?

Learn more about holiday traditions with these interesting facts. … about Hanukkah gelt? The gift giving that takes place during the Jewish Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, according to local synagogue Chabad of Bakersfield co-director Esther Sclanger, started as a custom to give children mone,y which they in turn were expected to give to charity. “This custom of the Hanukkah gelt (a Yiddish word for money), evolved into a gift giving celebration,” she said.

… about the origin and meaning of Kwanzaa? Kwanzaa originated in Los Angeles against the backdrop of the African American Freedom Movement during the Civil Rights decade of 1960s.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Beginning 43 days prior to Christmas, the Coptic Orthodox Church enters into a fasting season known as the Nativity Fast, according to St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church member Inas Michael. Believers abstain from meat, dairy and poultry, Michael said, and follow a diet based on seasonal fruits, vegetables and fish. Believers also abstain from any type of food or drink for nine hours prior to the Christmas Eve Mass, or any Divine Liturgy where they receive communion, church member Jasmin Shenouda said. On Christmas Eve (Jan. 6 for Coptic believers), the fast is broken with a communal meal that takes place at the church after midnight, Shenouda said. There is a reason for this humbling of the spirit at Christmastime by abstaining from physical pleasures such as eating: “We are preparing to receive the birth of Christ,” Michael said.

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December 2013

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Looking for that special gift? Look no further. Hidden in the shopping whirlwind of Bakersfield's boutiques you will find that gift at Bling It Boutique. From our handcrafted decor signs to our Bling It clothing and accessories, we have what you need for this holiday season. 1516 18th St.; 325-4641. “Where Everything Is Blinged.”

Goose Loonies Tavern & Grill When you need your baklava, hummus or gyro on the go. Small and large platters are available, perfect for home or the workplace. Catering and delivery available on corporate events. Book one of our two party rooms that can accommodate up to 100 people. Give a Goose gift card this season. Come see what Pete Tittl was raving about when he said we have “the best Greek food in town.” 816 18th St. in Downtown Bakersfield; 631-1242.

Emporium Western Store Pendleton Woolen Mills products. Time honored since 1863, we have unique products including Pendleton that make wonderful gifts for the holidays. Select from Pendleton wool shirts, legendary wool blankets, T-shirts, hats, decor items and accessories. Look for the big red boot at 1031 19th St. 325-8476; emporiumwesternstore.com.

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Victoria’s UGG Boots are quite the fashion. The classic style comes in many colors, and makes for the perfect Christmas gift. Victoria’s has a great selection of UGG boots and slippers to choose from. Victoria’s in the Market Palce is open seven days a week. 9000 Ming Ave.; 665-8300.

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Uniquely Chic Angels straight from heaven. Holiday shopping at its best. Come in and see our gorgeous array of holiday flowers, bouquets and unique gifts tailored to fit for your gift giving delight. Uniquely Chic Florist. 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 701; 588-7997; uniquelychicflorist.com

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Bikersfield Holiday bling. You will find your perfect gift at our 2,000 square-foot, all-inclusive boutique this holiday season. Come see our amazing selection of Vocal Clothing that is made right here in the United States. From our Gypsy Girl leather boots, to our huge assortment of Bling jewelry, purses, wallets and belts. We have the perfect gift waiting for all the women on your shopping list. Let Bikersfield be your shopping holiday haven. Bikersfield. 2622 Fairhaven Drive (off Rosedale Highway near Hooters); 321-9882.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Jezabelle’s This holiday season, come in to see our European inspired Bertigo menswear and Élan women's clothing. Women not only want to take over the world, but want to look good doing it. At Jezabelle's, we have a wide assortment of accessories to add to those collections to make your experience complete. Our beautiful Bravo handbags are featured here. Jezabelle’s, 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 303, 829-2781

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Color Me Mine at The Marketplace Soul Purpose Give back this holiday season and shop local for gifts that have been given new life. Come see us at Soul Purpose (formally known as Greenshops) and see this beautiful necklace and bracelet by Raven + Lily that are handmade using recycled melted bullet castings and vintage coins and our leather cuff bracelets by Bombshell Betty, made from repurposed leather belts and decorated with vintage finds. 8200 Stockdale Highway, Suite B-2; 843-6477.

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BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DSJ INSURANCE SERVICES, LLC

an Webb is the managing partner of DSJ Insurance Services, LLC and the vice president of legislation for the California Association of Health Underwriters (CAHU). He has also served as president of CAHU as well as president of the Kern Association of Health Underwriters (KAHU). He holds the designation of Certified Healthcare Reform Specialist and is a Certified Insurance Agent and Certified Trainer with Covered California. He has been published nationally and is a Soaring Eagle charter member of the Leading Producer’s Roundtable. Dan is involved in legislative advocacy as it pertains to health insurance and is knowledgeable in the Affordable Care Act and understands its impact on Californians.

Q: Do you like what you do? A: I love the opportunity it gives me to help people. I am able to take a complex subject like the Affordable Care Act and communicate it to individuals in everyday understandable terms. I can help folks make informed decisions regarding their health insurance. DSJ Insurance Q: What is the difference Services, LLC between the Affordable Care Address: 5373 Truxtun Ave. Act and Obamacare? Number: 324-9322 A: None. The term ‘Obamacare’ Email: dan@dsjinsurance.com became a part of our vocabulary in the presidential race of 2007. Having started as a derogatory term, it is now accepted as a euphemism for the Affordable Care Act. Q: We hear the terms Health Benefits Exchange, Covered California and the Marketplace. What do they all mean? A: All three terms refer to California’s state run exchange. The exchange is a place where an individual, or small business, can go to shop for health insurance plans. Q: Are there financial subsidies available for individuals in the exchange? A: Depending on your income, an individual may be eligible for federal assistance. 92

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Dan Webb

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSJ INSURANCE SERVICES

Q: How long have you been an insurance agent? A: 14 years.

Q: Is it easy to determine eligibility for a subsidy and enroll in a health insurance plan? A: It may be easier for some, but difficult for others. My recommendation is that you work with a California licensed Covered California Certified Insurance Agent. At no cost to the individual, this expert will help you navigate the exchange system and insure you make the best decision. This document is owned by DSJ Insurance Services, LLC which is solely responsible for its content. This document is not affiliated with Covered California, and Covered California bears no responsibility for its content. The e-mail addresses and telephone numbers that appear throughout this document belong to DSJ Insurance Services, LLC and cannot be used to contact Covered California.

BUSINESS PROFILE

Dirty Dog DIY Wash is Bakersfield’s first do-it-yourself dog wash.

DIRTY DOG DIY WASH What is Dirty Dog DIY Wash? We are the first, and only “coin-operated,” do-it-yourself dog wash in Bakersfield. The machine we use is the Evolution Dog Wash, and it is a completely self-contained dogwash that accepts tokens, cash and credit/debit cards. How does Dirty Dog DIY Wash work? Very much like the old school coin-operated car washes, there are seven cycles to click through which include a conditioning shampoo, flea & tick shampoo, conditioning rinse, Dirty Dog DIY Wash high- and low-blow dry settings and a Address: 2000 F St. disinfectant spray for the basin. Simply Number: 203-5644 open the door to the wash basin, put Email: dirtydogdiy@gmail.com your dog in the basin, and tether them Facebook search: Dirty Dog in with the sturdy chain clasp. EveryDIY Wash thing is dispensed directly through a very easy-to-use spray hose and blow dry hose, so there is no need to bring any type of supplies with you. What makes Dirty Dog DIY Wash different from other self-serve washes and dog groomers in town? We are neither a retail store nor a conventional dog grooming business. The wash unit is located in a building 94

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December 2013

PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

that is not manned by an employee, nor does it require one. The building provides perfect shelter from the elements, as well as a fenced area. Once you enter, you are safe to let your dog off of its leash and roam around the area, and you do not need to worry about being in close proximity to strangers with dogs or waiting in line in a cramped or crowded store. If you bring multiple dogs, which can be washed together at the same time, one can wander around in the space and be completely safe and secure. We are located next door to Caffeine Supreme in the lush landscape, providing a park-like setting and a chance to grab a cup of coffee to top off the experience. What are some advantages of using Dirty Dog DIY Wash rather than other Bakersfield pet services? We feel the biggest advantage is the price! The cost to wash your pet is $10 for 10 minutes. There is also no appointment needed. We are open 365 days a year from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. — you can go wash your dog with no worry. Another advantage is leaving the mess at our facility. We simply ask that you rinse down the basin with the disinfectant spray once you have washed your dog. This only takes seconds and that is the only cleanup necessary. The machine’s basin elevates your dog to waist height, which is much better than bending over a bathtub at home that can make a huge mess. The best advantage for your beloved pet is that a stranger is not bathing them, and they can feel safe and secure with their owner.

BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What is Mendez Media Marketing Inc.? Mendez Media is a local, full-service, marketing communications agency. The organization provides all the tools necessary to develop commercials, book advertising, develop strategic marketing plans, coordinate public relations, build an internal marketing strategy, expand brand awareness and execute brand management campaigns. Marketing is often less about you and more about your consumer. Understanding them is the key, and knowing your customer goes beyond basic demographics of age and gender. Mendez Media works to bridge organizations and businesses with their target audiences not only through simple advertising, but also by building long-lasting relationships and connections. Who makes up the Mendez Media Marketing team? A good business owner knows that it’s not how great you are, it’s how great your team is. The Mendez group has become a family and works in sync on all projects. Everyone within the company makes a significant contribution and allows for celebrations when results Mendez Media equal sucMarketing Inc. cesses for Address: 1430 Truxtun Ave., our clients. Fifth Floor Our team Number: 577-4100 members Website: not only mendezmediamarketing.com have the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities, but it’s their community involvement that makes them stand out. The selfless giving they all do and the willingness to work 120 percent makes the team so unique. Mendez Media believes in supporting the local community and has hired quality employees from the area including Garces Memorial High School and Cal State Bakersfield graduates. Education is a key component for the company and Mendez Media has invested in each employee to further their potential, including obtaining special certifications in design, ani96

Bakersfield Life Magazine

Sara Mendez is CEO of Mendez Media, Inc.

mation, marketing and advertising. In an industry that is ever changing and incessantly growing, continued education and training is imperative to be the best in the field and connect with consumers and their changing behavioral patterns that effect purchasing decisions every day. What kind of community involvement does Mendez Media Marketing Inc. do, and why is that so important? Since inception in 2006, Mendez Media has been heavily involved in the communities in which it operates. Giving back, supporting local communities and inspiring others to strive for greatness is something we are very proud to support. Whether it’s in design time, helping cover hard costs, sending children to camp or donating Christmas trees,

December 2013

PHOTO COURTESY OF MENDEZ MEDIA MARKETING, INC

MENDEZ MEDIA MARKETING INC.

we truly enjoy giving back. We take nothing for granted and try to take every opportunity to return the generosity and kindness that has allowed our agency to prosper over the years. What is your favorite business book? Currently, there are two “must read” books in the marketing world. One is on marketing and the other is on leadership. The first is from Marc Gobe, titled “Emotional Branding,” and it explains a lot of great ideas and tips on how to tailor marketing to consumers and how ads interact with the human brain. The other, Dave Ramsey’s “Entreleadership,” is a great book that provides helpful insight on how to not only lead, but also to motivate, empower and influence the type of work that leads to success.

BUSINESS PROFILE

Steve Houston of Houston Jewelers, at 4717 Stockdale Highway.

HOUSTON JEWELERS The holidays are here, what do they mean to Houston Jewelers? The holidays are wonderful because we get to celebrate with family and friends. The season is filled with so much joy because many of our customers have become family through the years. It is a wonderful time to help our customers purchase the perfect gift for someone special in their life and make Christmas wonderful. These are special moments! What makes Houston Jewelers special? Houston Jewelers has the largest store in the area, which makes it possible to carry the largest selection of necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches and other items from designers such as Houston Jewelers David Yurman, Jack Kelege, Memoire and Address: 4717 Stockdale now, IWC Schaffhausen watches. Our highHighway ly-trained and professional staff is happy to Phone: 835-3530 assist you to find extraordinary gifts for Website: everyone on your Christmas list. And, all houstonsjewelry.com the exclusive brands and inventory allow us to offer various price points, so every customer can find a beautiful gift at a price they can afford.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What is new at Houston Jewelers? The IWC Schaffhausen Ingenieur watch collection. This year marked the launch of the remodeled Ingenieur watch line, which was originally introduced in the 1950s. The Ingenieur in many ways is the ultimate watch — ultra-suave and highly engineered. The aim was to make a perfectly protected and high-precision watch, wound solely by movements of the wearer’s arm. The 2013 Ingenieur pays tribute to innovation, technological progress and inspiration with the use of materials such as titanium, ceramic and carbon, which are usually found in the cars of Formula 1 racing. With 659 components, the Ingenieur is a true engineering marvel. For those interested in the quest for the ultimate timepiece, the Ingenieur is it! Why does Houston Jewelers carry the IWC watch line? People in Bakersfield deserve the finest and most up-todate jewelry and cutting-edge watch lines. IWC is very discerning about where their watches are sold and Houston Jewelers was honored to be chosen to represent this line. If you are looking for the ultimate timepiece, the one with truly uncompromising engineering and perfection, then come look at the newly remodeled Ingenieur. — Houston Jewelers’ family and staff wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas, and thank you for years of patronage and the ability to serve you.

BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MR. MATTRESS

Mr. Mattress Address: 806 Wible Road Phone: 396-1000 Website: mrmattressdirect.com

Jimmy Ray, President of Mr. Mattress Direct Inc. 10 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP Avoid greasy foods at night. Sometimes it may feel like you’ve eaten a big, greasy meatball, and it’s sitting in your stomach. No matter which way you turn, you can’t get relief or comfort. After tossing and turning for hours, you get up and take an Alka-Seltzer. What a relief! Just think that if you had skipped the late-night greasy meal, you would have had the blissful sleep that you deserve. Try playing relaxing music. There is an old wives’ tale about drinking warm milk at bedtime to help you sleep. Milk has a small amount of melatonin, so it will help you slip into a deep sleep. Avoid coffee or any drinks with caffeine late at night. Don’t eat late-night snacks. You might think that you’re hungry, but you’re probably just bored, especially if it’s late at night. When you eat and then go to bed, it’s harder to digest your food. Snacking late at night may lead to heart-burn or acid reflux. Eat a small dinner. A small dinner before bedtime can help in more ways than you might think. You won’t feel sluggish and in need of a pick-me-up, and you won’t blow your diet! Smaller meals are typically easier to digest and will prevent any problems from disturbing a good night’s rest. Get a comfortable set of sheets. One of the best feelings in the world is slipping into a bed that has a new crisp, clean pair of sheets. Sheets are categorized by the thread count. A higher thread count means softer and more luxurious sheets. Lower thread counts tend to be much cheaper but can also be a problem because they will develop fuzz balls over time. This alone can disturb your sleep. If sheets remain soft and smooth — not to mention, clean — you will sleep better. Sleep on a supportive mattress. One of the easiest ways to ensure that you have a great night’s sleep is to have a really good mattress. I happen to sell very good mattresses at very good prices. We are a family-owned business and use a no-commissions sales staff, which means all of us are here for the purpose of giving you the best value in your sleep products. Come to my store, and don’t be shy: Lie down on any of our mat100

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tresses. I have been helping people get the best sleep for more than 40 years. Turn down the thermostat. At night, sweat can interrupt even the best night of rest. To avoid late-night hot flashes, turn the thermostat down a couple of degrees in the winter. If it’s summer, keep it at a suitable temperature that isn’t too hot or too cold. Have a different thickness of blankets to layer across your mattress so that you don't have to get up and go to the linen closet. REM sleep. REM, which stands for rapid eye movement, is the deep sleep. This is where your brain re-energizes itself. This typically happens two to three hours a night. REM sleep is also when most dreams occur. Whether we remember them or not, most people dream every night. Follow a routine. Establish a routine and try to follow it every day. Following your routine will help your mind settle into a pattern. This way, your mind will understand the information it has been working on, and you will sleep much better. Read a book. Select a book that is peaceful. In other words, choose a book that does not involve James Bond or nuclear thermal warfare that are scary and/or adventure books. Reading those will cause your mind to be over-stimulated. This is a quiet time to relax your mind and body. Focus on what you’re reading. You will fall asleep much faster and be in a more relaxed state of mind.

December 2013

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Employees Taylor Sands, left, and Dalice Meyer with Full Bloom owner Todd McCabe

FULL BLOOM Questions answered by owner Todd McCabe. What is Full Bloom? My sister Becky and I opened Full Bloom four years ago with the original concept of offering custom and pre-made arrangements using the most realistic permanent botanicals. We wanted to create a boutique that Bakersfield had never seen; a look that belonged more in Santa Barbara or Newport. We believe we have succeeded. When people walk in for the first time, we Full Bloom often hear “I don’t feel like I’m in BakersAddress: 4909 Stockdale field.” Highway Phone: 831-1751 Facebook Search: Full Bloom-Bakersfield

How would you describe Full Bloom’s style? It is classic Californian — a theme throughout the store. Arrangements using magnolias, pomegranates, succulents, artichokes and real branches from the Mojave Desert; framed vintage Bakersfield and California maps and Kern County oilfield photos. Handmade signs representing Kern County produce: almonds, cotton, petroleum and the list goes on. California-made jewelry; cross bottles from Humbolt County; and framed vintage and antique flags.

Can you tell us more about the antique flags? Our framed American flags are 45 stars or less dating 102

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PHOTOS BY RODNEY THORNBURG

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

from 1890 to 1906. The framed California flags are cotton and predate the 1960s. We selectively pick our flags for their flaws and imperfections making each unique and true pieces of American history. The majority of our flags are sold as gifts or installed in office environments. Customers often say, “That would be perfect for my husband’s office.” What made you decide to introduce jewelry? Two years ago, my daughter was working in the store during summer break. She was bored with just pots and plants and mentioned the store should carry jewelry. To keep her occupied, we allowed her to place our first jewelry order. Since that first order, jewelry has expanded to one entire room. All of our jewelry is handmade in California by small independent companies, including our exclusive with C&C Hardware. What is C&C Hardware? C&C Hardware is a Bakersfield-grown jewelry line handmade by Cindy Eller and Connie Wedemeyer. Each piece of jewelry is a one-of-a-kind created with antique Coptic crosses, vintage medals, sterling silver, pearls and semiprecious stones. Cindy and Connie are amazing artists and have following. Full Bloom is the only store in Bakersfield carrying C&C, which continues to be a customer favorite. Why do your customers love your store and what you offer? We offer a constantly changing and unique product with an atmosphere that is casual, relaxed and accommodating.

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PA S T I M E S

Supplies from Classy Knits & Yarns.

A CLOSE-‘KNIT’ COMMUNITY A traditional skill is alive and well in the hands of these capable local knitters By Kelly Damian

Photos by April Massirio

hances are the sweater you’re wearing was produced by an industrial grade, automatic knitting machine. Yarn was placed in the feeder. The proper program was selected. Someone pushed the green button, and with dizzying speed, the needles followed the computer’s commands until, voilá, out popped your sweater. For Noël Carroll, Lisa Quijada, Katie Nickolls and Paola Becerra, the process of knitting couldn’t be more different. Each project for these knitters and crocheters begins with a flash of inspiration, the source of which might be a skein of luxurious cashmere or a complicated lace pattern that begs to be conquered. Every piece provides a different experience. Some are relaxing, whereas others become so frustrating they have to be set aside in the name of sanity. But once finished, that scarf, cowl, sweater or blanket is a source of great satisfaction. As Nickolls puts it: “Making something beautiful and functional from just sticks and strings is a great feeling.” They’re also part of a city filled with givers of handmade products. Bakersfield 104

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Paola Becerra opened a shop on Etsy.com called “The Knitting Games,” and sells headbands seen here.

December 2013

Noël Carroll shows off some of her stuffed animals she made.

Katie Nickolls does her knitting at coffee shops, while running errands, and even at the movie theater. recently ranked No. 6 in the nation for “most generous metro areas,” according to a Craftsy.com survey.

A MEMORY IN EVERY LOOP If Lisa Quijada’s blankets and beanies smell like wood smoke, it is because she has been working on them in the mountains, crocheting in the cabin while her family members are out hunting bear and deer. Hunting has worked its way into her crocheting in other ways as well. For her son, she has crocheted a camouflage blanket and all the hunters of her family wear her handmade beanies. When she was 10 years old, Quijada’s mother taught her to crochet, a skill that her mother learned from the generation before her. “One of my fondest memories is when my grandmother, mother, sister, daughter and I spent an evening together all crocheting,” she said. For Lisa, the process and the product go hand in hand, and she finds that her finished pieces hold memories from the places and events that were happening when she made them.

ORIGINAL SOCIAL NETWORK Wherever Katie Nickolls goes, so goes her knitting: coffee shops, running errands, and even to the movie theater. When she saw “World War Z,” knitting helped

her handle the stress of watching Brad Pitt battle the zombie hoards. Her knitting inevitably ends up being an icebreaker. “I always get people asking me questions about my projects when I’m knitting on-the-go,” Nickolls said. “A lot of people know someone who knits or crochets, even if they don’t themselves.” Being 26 years old, Nickolls is a child of the digital generation. As such, she uses online resources like YouTube and ravelry.com, but nothing replaces the knowledge and camaraderie that comes from working alongside other knitters. At Classy & and Yarns, her favorite part of her job is helping people with their projects. Her advice for beginners is two-fold. “Don’t run before you learn to walk and don’t get discouraged,” she said. “Unless you are a knitting masochist, don’t start your first project with a sweater.”

THE CRAFTY LIFE One night, after finishing up an evening of games with her dart league, Noël Carroll went to her car to discover a tragedy: her car had been broken into and her knitting bag was stolen. The soon-to-be-disappointed thief made off with expensive yarns, works in progress, and favorite tools. She is grateful her stepgrandmother’s needle case was not in the bag. “It’s very precious to me. I use her crochet hooks all the time, and they remind me of her.” Carroll has been knitting for four years, but she brings a lifetime of crafting experience to her current hobby. For many years, she quilted, but those projects

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Continued from page 105

Lisa Quijada often crochets in a mountain cabin while her family hunts.

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December 2013

require a large amount of space and she couldn’t throw a quilting frame in her bag and take it along with her. So, she switched to knitting. Her bid to reduce her crafting footprint may have backfired, however. Now, whenever she goes out of town, she is sure to visit the local yarn shops, and lately she has contemplated using her oven for yarn storage. “I have a very patient husband,” she said, smiling. Paola Becerra has come a long way since knitting her first misshapen, neon-colored scarf at age 11. Recently, she opened a shop on Etsy.com called “The Knitting Games,” and sells handmade headbands. “When I first started, I would never have imagined people buying my headbands, or that I would be attempting a cardigan,” Becerra said. The thing she enjoys most about knitting is the way she gets completely absorbed in a project. “When you knit, it’s all you think about,” she said. Since she is a bit of a perfectionist, she sometimes spends just as much time pulling out her yarn as she spends looping it together, but still she finds knitting to be relaxing. Now, she gets restless riding in a car or turning on the TV without a project in her hands.

HOME AND GARDEN

DECORATED HOLIDAY

PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO

Deck out your Christmas tree this season with tips from decorator Linette Holliday

Holiday decorator Linette Holliday stands next to a Christmas tree she decked out.

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December 2013

By Hillary Haenes

ith a last name like Holliday, it is no wonder this time of year is the busiest for this professional interior designer, costume and fine jewelry saleswoman, wedding and party planner and holiday decorator. Linette Holliday dabbles in a lot, and does it well. Her word-of-mouth decorating business started 15 years ago when one of her clients at a landscape maintenance company she and husband Tim owned asked her about doing an interior application for Christmas. She jumped at the opportunity to get creative and take on a new project. And her design was so well-received that she reached out to a few more customers. Today, while most people are at home during the holidays spending time with family and friends, Holliday spends long 12- to 15-hour days making businesses and homes festive with rolls of ribbon, luminous strands of lights and shiny ornaments. “If you were to ask my close friends, they will tell you that I disappear for about four weeks,” said Holliday, 47. “I can’t make a lot of social gatherings, I miss a lot of runs, texts are answered late or with quick bursts.” Her season usually starts at — Linette Holliday the end of September with a couple of Halloween projects, and then the ordering of Christmas trees begins. And it’s all a blur from there, she said. Luckily, Holliday has had a small but fierce crew of four with her for years, making her job a little easier. “We all know what we are good at, and are able to pick up where the other leaves off,” she said. “We have also become close enough

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Tips: Decorating for the holidays

Put your own spin on it

Go big or go home

When deciding on what to put on your tree, try anything you love. It doesn’t have to come from the Christmas aisle. I have used chair ties, feather boas, picture frames, mirrors, flowers and feathers. I think it should reflect your personality, just like any other décor.

Don’t be afraid of size. One large gorgeous piece has more impact than several small pieces. Just go for it, if you don’t like it, you can always take it back.

— Linette Holliday Contact Holliday to decorate your home or business for the holiday season or a special event at lighnet@bak.rr.com.

Icicle lights I like to use icicle lights. It sounds strange, but when you are stringing the lights through the tree, each line of lights that comes off the strand can be wound down the branch. It eliminates the need for doubling back. I have found that if you use one large box of lights (200 to 300 light count per foot of tree), you have plenty of lights.

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December 2013

Share your joyous announcement in Continued from page 109 to understand each other’s personalities, so when we are really tired and maybe a little crabby, no one walks away in a huff.” Each job is different, and has it’s own set of decorations. Typically, Holliday and her team deck out a total of 15 trees of varied heights, and use 18 to 20 very large wreaths, countless strands of garland, packaged props and some miscellaneous décor. “I pay special attention to each person’s home, and try to pick up on their personality. I use a lot of different materials and attempt to create something they will love for a few years,” she said. One of the big events that Holliday lends a hand at each year is The Enchanted Forest, which benefits a different local charity each year. She helps design trees that are raffled off to guests. Her favorite tree she designed was a 9-foot tree with a firefighter Santa theme — the tree was filled with fire memorabilia, Santas, trucks and a vintage fire truck pedal car. After many years of organizing successful parties for clients, Holliday said she also finds joy in doing the same for her family and group of friends. “I especially love watching people enjoy the small details that are often overlooked,” she said. “I am a very social person, and rather than be overwhelmed by the chaos, it actually kicks me into gear.” She added: “So the more the merrier.”

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS BIRTHDAYS GRADUATION ENGAGEMENTS WEDDINGS ANNIVERSARIES ACHIEVEMENTS MILITARY SERVICE SPORTS EVENTS RETIREMENT Featured Fridays in The Bakersfield Californian, it’s the perfect way to share your heartwarming news with friends and family! For more information, contact us at 322-7355 or classified@bakersfield.com

Share the

Memories!

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HISTORY

Bakersfield has received snowfall 28 times since 1937, but only four times has snowfall been measurable. • March 17, 1922: 2.5 inches of snow • Dec. 11, 1932: 4 inches of snow • March 8, 1974: 1.5 inches of snow • Jan. 25, 1999: 3 inches of snow Source: National Weather Service; snowfall measured at NWS locations.

Tim Oats snowboards down the Panorama bluffs in 1999.

PHOTO BY HENRY BARRIOS

Snowfall!

SNOW IN BAKERSFIELD? By Jeff Nickell

ongtime Bakersfield residents know it does snow in Bakersfield. Whether it’s a blessing or curse, it only happens about once in a quarter century. Days that get a flurry that last just a few scant minutes don’t really count. This is about real snow that can bring our usually dry city to a crawl, or even a complete stop. What amount of snow can do that? For Bakersfield, it is about 6 inches, which sounds funny, but it’s true. Mid-westerners and other snow plagued area people can laughing mightily. Six inches, really? There was measureable snow in the 1930s with photo evidence at the Kern County Museum to prove it. It also

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Few traveled the icy streets of Bakersfield following snowfall in January 1999.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

It happens just once in a while, but when the white stuff hits the streets of Bakersfield, it brings the city to a crawl

snowed in 1974, causing teachers to keep children indoors (so the children did not bring snow and mud into the classroom, or so the story goes). And, there have been a few teasers between then and now. But the real snow day occurred on Jan. 25, 1999. Depending on the part of town, 6 to 8 inches fell that day in town. That was enough to bring the town — schools, businesses and many city and county entities — to a virtual halt, with

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

many of them closing. The issue was not so much the snow, as it was driving in it. Bakersfield residents were, and are, not accustomed to dealing with such an ordeal. The threat of snow has been joyously anticipated throughout the years, but to resident’s dismay, it seems to never come. But, on that particular day in January, employers awoke to phone calls from employees asking, “Do we have to go to work today?” Many employers, who had not looked outside yet, were telling the employees “yes,” as if to be in shock they were being asked such a question. The resounding response was, “But, it’s snowing outside.” Indeed, it was, and it didn’t stop, which put Bakersfield at the forefront of national news, in print and on the television (there was no Facebook and Twitter back then). Even the city’s trees were not used to the snow, with many large branches falling on structures and others blocking roadways. Residents, however, delighted in making snowmen, snowball fights, making snow angels. Many ventured out to see the town covered in glistening white powder. Photographs taken by The Bakersfield Californian and others are a reminder of “the day it snowed in Bakersfield.”

Snow from the January 1999 snowfall blankets Sam Lynn Ball Park. Thought rare, rest assured that it will snow in Bakersfield again, and Bakersfield will close its doors for business, again. We just don’t know when!

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OUR TOWN

THE GIFT OF BAKERSFIELD Learn more about these popular made-in-Bakersfield products and where to find them in town By Mark Nessia

ooking for a great gift this holiday season? You don’t have to look far. This year, give the gift of Bakersfield — that is, gifts made right here in our town.

Bowen’s Whiskey

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOWEN’S WHISKEY

A small batch, handcrafted American beverage from Central California, Bowen’s Whiskey is a throwback whiskey with a smoky-sweet flavor that goes down smooth. Locally-sourced, fire-ravaged oak from the Piute Mountains is what gives this 100-percent corn whiskey (90 proof) its different flavor profile — a “buttery, caramel-driven campfire in a bottle.” Bottles can be purchased at local stores including Imbibe Wine and Spirits Merchant, Westchester Liquors and Country Club Liquors & Deli for about $40. Find it in local bars, too, including The Padre Hotel and The Mark Restaurant. For store locations and online ordering, go to bowenswhiskey.com.

Locally produced Bowen’s Whiskey retails for about $40 a bottle.

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PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

My Husband’s Nuts features four flavors — butter toffee, chili con lemon, onion garlic, natural smoke — and a raw version.

With a name like My Husband’s Nuts, these special almonds offer not only a witty name but great taste. A delicious treat that’s also heart healthy, these local almonds are available in raw and four flavors — butter toffee, chili con lemon, onion garlic and natural smoke. Find them at Country Club Liquors, Sully’s Chevron, Russo’s Books and online — myhusbandsnuts.com. Custom gift baskets can be ordered to fit any budget. “Gift Set No. 2” ($30) is the most popular, featuring one bag of each flavored nuts. Also available is the “Gift of Kindness” ($30), which features a custom ceramic bowl made by Bakersfield’s Dr. Chuck Wall, two packages of flavored almonds, a card with Wall’s “kindness” history, and more.

Dewar’s With a wide variety of chews, chocolates and just about anything sweet you can think of, Dewar’s collection of sugary (and sugar-free) treats will put a smile on anyone’s face. Dewar’s gift baskets can be customized to fit any size and any budget. Orders can be made in store at any of their three locations in Bakersfield, or online at dewarscandy.com, with overnight delivery available for last-minute shoppers. Christmas booths will also be available starting Dec. 9 at the downtown and northwest locations for easy pick-up-and-go pur-

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEWAR’S

My Husband’s Nuts

Dewar’s has made delicious sweets locally since 1909. chases. Dewar’s Family Packs, which are only sold during the holidays, are the most popular option. Available in 3- or 4-pound boxes ($59.97 and $79.96, respectively), they contain light and dark fudge, assorted chocolates, and, of course, Dewar’s famous chews. Kid’s candy boxes ($10.75) are also available and make great stocking stuffers.

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Lehman Custom Knives Those who enjoy the great outdoors know the value of a good knife. Lehman Custom Knives are handmade with the best steel from America, Germany, Spain and Japan as well as exotic hardwoods, like Arizona desert ironwood and ebony. Bakersfield’s Larry Lehman has made and sold more than 500 custom knives, with no two knives made exactly alike — unless it’s by special request. Constructing a knife can take as little as seven weeks but can also take as long as seven months, with prices ranging from $150 to $400. They are as beautiful as they are function-

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Hand-painted shoes from Fruitful Feet.

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

Lehman’s Custom Knives features the finest steel and exotic hardwoods.

al. See for yourself — Lehman holds viewings. More information: 665-9822 or go to lehmancustomknives.com.

Fruitful Feet Shoes are something worn every day. Why not personalize and decorate them? Fruitful Feet owner Sandra Ramirez hand paints any

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C&C Hardware uses antique crosses, war medals and rare coins to create jewelry pieces.

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shoes — using acrylic paint, paint markers and Sharpie markers — to whatever designs customers want. Shoes typically take six weeks to complete, but Ramirez works around customers’ time frames as needed. Prices range from $100 to $185. Customers can also send in their own shoes for painting “as long as they are not stinky,” she said. Gift certificates are also available as well as shipping for out-oftown orders. More information and designs can be seen at www.fruitfulfeet.com.

C&C Hardware For women who would like to stand out from the crowd, look no further than C&C Hardware. Every piece of jewelry features something vintage — from crosses from the 1700s, war medals and old coins — making each item as rare as it is unique. Everything that goes into each piece is hand picked and handmade, with prices ranging from $100 to $700. C&C Hardware also takes custom orders and special requests. A limited selection can be found at Full Bloom, 4909 Stockdale Highway, while the entire collection can be seen at the trunk show at Imbibe, 4140 Truxtun Ave., from 4 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 12. More information: Facebook or candchardware@yahoo.com. — Looking for more gift ideas, check out our complete 2013 Holiday Gift Guide on Page 84.

HURRY! Nominate between December 2 and December 16 ONLY!

Visit BestofKern.com to nominate your favorite places, people and businesses in a variety of categories. Top nominations in each category will make the ballot.

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COMMUNITY

BUILDING A BETTER BAKERSFIELD Top local high schoolers lead community projects in Jim Burke Educational Foundation’s Dream Builders program By Kelly Damian

Photos courtesy of the Jim Burke Educational Foundation

hat happens when you take a group of high-achieving, energetic high school seniors and give them a daunting challenge? “Fireworks,” says Justin Salters, team adviser and an alumnus of the Dream Builders program. Every year, the Jim Burke Educational Foundation asks high school faculty to nominate some of Bakersfield’s most promising high school seniors for its Dream Builders program. From the initial 200 applicants, 22 become part of Dream Builders and 10 join Ford Dimensions to work together on community service projects then create a keynote presentation about the project and present it in front of 200 people.

From left: Dream Builders’ Scout Ocampo, Kayla Bernardino and Cory Camp accept the “Chairman’s Award” at the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards ceremony.

COMMUNITY NEEDS Before beginning their projects, participants spend several months in learning mode. Local community leaders speak to the students about the importance of civic responsibility and educate them about areas of need in Bakersfield. Students also learn professional and organizational skills, such

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as how to set agendas, run effective meetings, and communicate professionally. These skills become especially important since Dream Builders are required to collaborate not only with one another but also with a nonprofit group. The students are divided into four teams and partnered with both a corporate and community adviser who are mentors throughout the process — from brainstorming to action. One might think that it would be hard to find busy professionals who are willing to commit a large amount of time to the program, but the reality is quite the opposite. Year after year, the advisors are eager to return and help with the program. “We help the team identify a community need they’re passionate about, answer questions about local nonprofits, help with introductions if necessary and then walk beside them as they plan, develop and execute their ideas,” said adviser Laura Wiener, owner of the local Spectrum Communications. “As advisers, we try to help them meet a community need that might incorporate many of their own skills and things that are important to them.”

EXPECTATIONS What is important to each participant can vary widely. They come together from very different backgrounds and interests such as student government, sports, music, drama and agriculture. So the ideas are non-stop and the aspirations are high. “Every year, I begin wondering if they will be able to accomplish the goals that they set for themselves,” said corporate adviser Jeff Loader, Vice president and Administrator at Bank of the Sierra. “Every year, they have met their goals

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Student leaders — like Daisy Mercado, left, Karen Aguirre and Ali Champness — often volunteer at events. including entertaining youngsters here at the Jim Burke Ford company picnic. Below: The 2013-14 Jim Burke Educational Foundation Dream Builder teams, from left: Dignity Health back row: Gabriel Macias, South; Anthony Busacca, Liberty; Gabriel Glazer, Independence. Front row: Ali Champness, Garces; Alexis Robles, South. Aera Energy LLC back row: Angelica Osorio, Golden Valley; Augustine Vasquez, Mira Monte; Brittney Lu, Centennial; Michael Cushine, Independence; Casey Ross, West. Front row: Grant Obenshain, Ridgeview. Bank of the Sierra back row: Nicholas Del Mundo, Stockdale; Austin Huckaby, Bakersfield Christian; Ben Ward, East; Harmaneet Gill, Ridgeview. Front row: Sara Baldridge, Highland; Angelica Fuentes, Stockdale. Bright House Networks back row: Patrick Crowley, BHS; Andrew Francis, North. Front row: Daisy Mercado, Foothill; Claryce Lazerson, Bakersfield Christian; Karen Aguirre, East.

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wants to do their part. Everyone wants to get a job.” Karen Aguirre of East High said she appreciated her mentor’s advice that the group not spread themselves too thin. “We all are kids who want to do everything,” she said.

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

Dream Builders’ Annie Berry teaches young chefs Evenlyn Sandate, left, and Melindi Rocha about nutrition during Dignity Health’s Community Wellness Program.

Continued from page 119 and exceeded my expectations.” The kids in each group are comfortable with leadership and the responsibility it brings. “It’s really different from working in a group at school,” said Sara Baldridge of Highland High School. “Everyone

The four teams present their plans for approval at the end of November, and once they get the green light, they will hit the ground running. An average project will require hundreds of hours of work, so the students quickly learn the importance of time management, communication skills and commitment. Gabriel Glazer of Independence High said he feels like the presence of the advisers during the undertaking frees the students up to do their best. “We have high aspirations and they have our backs,” he said. “This gives us some comfort and security.” Past Dream Builders have refurbished playgrounds, put on bike parades and educated others on the importance of organ donation. The community benefits from their projects, as do the students themselves. As Justin Salters, Public Affairs Representative at Chevron, explained: “I think one of the most important things students gain is the confidence that they, a group of 17-year-olds, can identify a need, design a project and make a big impact on our community. It doesn’t take limitless resources and celebrity endorsements to make the world a better place. They already have all they need, and Dream Builders helps them unlock that potential.”

Student leaders collected more than 6,363 pounds of food to benefit the Golden Empire Gleaner’s “Food for Thought” program that serves over 115 area schools. 120

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NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

Like what you see? The Light Guys can hook you up. For more information, call them at 241-0534, or go to thelightguys.net.

At Etchart Road in northwest Bakersfield.

HOLIDAY ’HOODS Throughout local neighborhoods, some homeowners go all out with lights, decorations By Earl Parsons

Photos courtesy of The Light Guys

ach night during the holiday season, the streets of Bakersfield are illuminated by thousands of tiny lights swaddled around homes and businesses. The blinking panoply of red, green and white bulbs help Bakersfield residents get into the holiday spirit, building lifelong memories for the architects and spectators alike.

A home in the Talladega neighborhood in northwest Bakersfield.

‘CHRISTMASTIME HOUSE’ Lifelong Bakersfield resident Kyle Carter can still remember passing by the legendary “Christmastime House” each year as a child. The Westchester home, originally owned by local radio magnate Ed Hopple, has been lavishly, painstakingly decorated each Christmas 122

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since the late 1960s. “When I was a kid, we would drive by the house every year just to see how it was decorated,” Carter said. “It was always different.” Hopple, who Carter referred to as “Bakersfield’s version of William Randolph

December 2013

Hearst” for the extravagant house parties and giveaways he threw throughout the year, would decorate his home with a different theme every year. One year, Hopple built a giant Rubik’s Cube in his front yard and covered it with lights; another year, Hopple went

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with an Olympic theme and put a skiing mannequin on the top of his roof. When Hopple sold the Christmastime House to Billy Thompson in the 1980s, Carter said that the lighting and decorations only became more lavish. Thompson would spend as much as $20,000 recreating scenes from movies and television in his front yard each year. For the release of the movie “Pocahontas,” Thompson bought a giant concrete boat that was “bigger than a city bus,” Carter said. There was the recreation of Fred Flintstone at the drive-in from the opening credits of “The Flintstones,” adorned with Christmas lights. Thompson even recreated the absurdly-lit front yard from the 1989 holiday classic “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” complete with a green station wagon in the driveway and a tree that appeared to be on fire. After buying the Christmastime House from Thompson three years ago, Carter felt obligated to continue the time-honored tradition of lighting the house for Christmas. Carter starts working on a traditional Christmas design in the beginning of November, he said, build-

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“The neighborhood goes all out,” Carter said. “I’m very humbled by it. When I go out and look up and down the streets and I see the work that people put into their decorations, it makes me want to try harder.”

THE LIGHT GUYS

On Plumas Wood Lane in northwest Bakersfield.

Continued from page 123 ing a small “gingerbread” house in his frontyard to accentuate the hundreds of lights and other homemade decorations draped around his front yard. Carter is inspired by the other Westchester residents who diligently decorate their homes with the same attention and care that he brings to his own front yard every year.

Since 2008, Brendan Collins has helped Bakersfield residents brighten up their homes every holiday season. The owner of The Light Guys, a full-service Christmas lighting company, helps install lights for 30 to 60 homes each year and for special projects, including for the Cal State Bakersfield campus. Collins said that while there are plenty of neighborhoods in Bakersfield where lit-up houses are sparse, you’d be hardpressed to find a single unlit home in communities like Haggin Oaks and Oleander. Many of The Light Guys’ frequent clients are elderly homeowners in those communities who are physically unable to climb atop their large, two-story homes, he said. Collins advises that people who plan on lighting their own homes for Christmas take proper safety precautions for working with electricity at high elevations and consider the impact of the Christmas lights on their electric bills. While newer light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are more durable and energy efficient, they can still take a considerable toll on your house-

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“The Christmastime House” on Elm Street in downtown Bakersfield.

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HOLIDAY HERITAGE Carter’s electric bill at the Christmastime House typically runs about $1,500 for the month of December, he said, but he

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feels that the cost is worth it to see how happy it makes the Bakersfield residents who drive out to see it every year. “We’re carrying on the heritage of the Christmas house,” Carter said. “We have had times where we get home from work late, and there will be a line of people down the street waiting for us to turn the lights on.”

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LADIES WHO…

SANTA’S HELPERS These women lead holiday programs benefiting foster children, senior citizens and other local causes Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine Photos by Mark Nessia

anta is always happy to get a little help during the holidays. And here in Bakersfield, there’s no shortage of helpers. That includes these four women who lead programs, campaigns and events during the holidays that benefit the less fortunate in our town. Meet them here, and learn how you can help, too.

Pat Cheadle A Kern County native, Cheadle is the director of the Department of Human Services, which annually hosts the Holiday Cottage Project that fills the wishes of children in foster care who cannot safely remain in their home due to child abuse or neglect. Our holiday program: Children in foster care fill out a wish form that is then displayed at the Holiday Cottage where the community can view, select and purchase one of the child’s wishes. They then return the gift to the Holiday Cottage so that it can be delivered to the child for the holiday. Program history: The Holiday Cottage Project celebrated 25 years in 2012, and has been coordinated by the Department of Human Services since its inception. However, the success of the Holiday Cottage project is only possible due to the generosity of the hundreds of individuals and families who fill the wishes of the children, as well as the many volunteers. 126

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Pat Cheadle

Sandee Senior

How people can help: Visit the Holiday Cottage from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 3 to 15 in the East Hills Mall to select and fill a wish. Cash donations are also accepted by the department's nonprofit partnership. More information: Project Coordinator Jose Gonzalez at 633-7184. My favorite part of the holidays: I love that this season allows our department and staff to do some very special activities for the children and families we serve, such as the Holiday Cottage event, participation in Toys for Tots, and we provide a breakfast with Santa for our foster families. Best gift I ever received: Having the opportunity to spend the holiday season with my mom prior to her passing early into the following year. Those memories are cherished, and will be a gift that will last a lifetime. All I want for Christmas is ... For my family and loved ones to be healthy, safe and happy during this joyful holiday season! Favorite holiday memory: One of our family’s favorite traditions is to gather for Christmas Eve to began the celebrations. All participants must sing a Christmas carol before opening one gift, which is video-taped. Each year we watch the videos from the previous year. You can imagine the hilarious time we have as not everyone has the talent for singing.

Sandee Senior Senior moved to Bakersfield in 1999 with her husband, a Bakersfield native. She is the president of Bakersfield Womans

Club, and chairwoman of the Festival of the Trees since 2004, a Christmas tree decorating event that benefits Teen Challenge, local students and charities, soldiers and more. Our holiday program: We all look forward to the beautiful displays. It takes a committee working a whole year to make it happen. Ticket are $50, and we were sold out in April. If you have not attended, get your check to us starting Feb. 15. We donate to Teen Challenge for their help. Hodel’s has provided the food for us every year and hires Teen Challenge to serve. We asked ROTC to help with our trees, and our Junior Womans Club to sell raffle tickets. Our program also benefits our local high school and college students — we give $1,000 scholarships to 30 students. We also donate to local charities: Garden Pathways, Bakersfield SPCA, Golden Empire Gleaners, Marley’s Mutts, Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House and The Salvation Army. We send soldiers care packages each month all year long. We sew heart pillows for breast cancer patients in Bakersfield. We make placemats for the holidays for rest-homes in Bakersfield — more than 100. We also give Christmas presents to 52 foster children from Koinonia. Program history: Festival of the Trees began in 1980 with 10 decorated trees and 400 in attendance. The next year it moved to the Civic Center where 1,000 tickets were sold and 35 trees were decorated. Today, we are celebrating 33 years and we have 59 decorated trees (with more than $100 to $200

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Sandy Morris

Continued from page 127 worth of merchandise under the tree) and 1,700 attending. How people can help: We would love to have new members that want to get involved, and would like to help us make this event happen. Contact the Womans Club of Bakersfield, 325-7889. All I want for Christmas isâ&#x20AC;Ś the continuation of Festival of the Trees for another 33 years. This event helps to kick off the holidays for everyone who attends. Favorite holiday memory: Last year when we far exceeded our goals for this event, and therefore we could give more to our charities and scholarships this year.

Sandy Morris This Bakersfield native retired from the Bakersfield Police Department last December after 25 years of service. Today, she is administrator for Bakersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas for Seniors, which donates essential items to local senior citizens. Our holiday program: We adopt homebound, isolated, low-income seniors from all over Kern County. We focus on seniors that are trying to hold onto their independence

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for as long as possible, living on Social Security Insurance only, and no family to help them out. Many of them are veterans, or spouses or widows of veterans. In 2012, we adopted 1,640 seniors in Kern County. They each received a box brightly wrapped full of everyday sundries that would be a necessity to you and I, but is a luxury to those living on a fixed income. They also get to choose a gift in the $20 range, and a $20 gift card for food or prescriptions. In addition, we adopt their pets. Children from all over the county make homemade Christmas cards that are the best part of the entire gift. Program history: This is the seventh year of the program. How people can help: We have boxes in different businesses across town where you can donate the 12 items seniors request the most. Or better yet, put one in your business for us! Follow us on Facebook for locations. Volunteer to help us prepare the gifts for delivery. More information: christmas4senior@yahoo.com. My favorite part of the holidays: I love the music! I love the decorations! I love the friendly attitude of the shop-

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Continued from page 128 pers in the stores! I love the feeling you get by doing for others! I love the family time! I love to shop! Best gift I ever received: When my oldest daughter Michelle was 18 months old, that was really her first Christmas. The smile on her face, the giggles and screams as she ran up to start cooking in her new kitchen that Santa had brought; the video I have as she clicked two glass Christmas balls together, walking towards me repeating, “No No Mama,” those memories are the best of my life. I promptly told my husband, “This was the best Christmas of my life, and I want more!” Nine months later we were blessed with a second daughter, and two years later, a son. Then came grandchildren — they were the best gift ever. All I want for Christmas is… I want my friends and family to be healthy. Favorite holiday memory: My dad Jim sold Christmas trees across from Bakersfield College for 30 years. The memories of our entire family all helping grandma and grandpa set up a tree lot, and helping families find that one special tree was just too much fun!

Dee Johnston Johnston, a Kern resident since 1964, retired from the

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County of Kern after 30 years. Shortly after, she joined the Assistance League of Bakersfield to give back to the community, and now manages Chez Noel, a holiday home tour benefitting school children. Our holiday program: The annual Chez Noel is held on the first Friday and Saturday in December, but we start preparing for it in the summer months. The proceeds go to our philanthropic programs such as Operation School Bell. Each year, our ladies dress children in need with brand new school clothes. Last year, we dressed more than 3,000 children and provided them with shirts, pants, underwear, jackets, shoes and school supplies. Another program, Operation Hugs, provides teddy bears to our local law enforcement, firefighters and hospital employees, who give these bears to children in crisis. Program history: This is my third year involved with Chez Noel, and I think the hard work of the group is paid back every time you see a smile on that little child’s face when he or she gets those badly needed new school clothes. How people can help: First, join us for Chez Noel, our holiday home tour. Tickets are $35 at the Assistance League, 1924 Q St. or at Russo’s Books in The Marketplace. Second, we have a program called “Clothe a Child.” It cost us $82 for each child we provide school clothes. You can help us by donating at bakersfield.assistanceleague.org. Or go to our Facebook page.

Dee Johnston

My favorite part of the holidays: The spirit of the people, and how they look for ways of helping others during the holidays. Best gift I ever received: I have two close friends who bring me the most wonderful baked goodies at Christmas. I think this is always my favorite gift. All I want for Christmas isâ&#x20AC;Ś Good health, and being with family. Favorite holiday memory: My little granddaughter at age 2 waking up on Christmas morning with that wide-eyed expression that only a child can have as she sees the tree lit, and the beautiful packages under it. bakersfieldlife.com

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PERSONALITY

Pat Brown, fitness trainer at Lifetime Fitness in downtown Bakersfield, has launched a supplements business — Pat Brown System — that is gaining popularity worldwide.

PAT BROWN: FAT BUSTER Bakersfield trainer’s supplements business taking international stage By Lisa Kimble

Photos by Rod Thornburg

hese days, Bakersfield entrepreneur and personal trainer Pat Brown feels a bit like James Stewart's character, George Bailey, at the end of Frank Capra's holiday classic, “It's A Wonderful Life” — like “the richest man in town.” After seven years of sweat and investment, his system of natural weight loss and energy boosting supplements, precooked meals and exercise plans is finding international consumers, which he credits to the support of his hometown.

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“Bakersfield has been so fabulous to allow me to try different products and their willingness to give me feedback,” Brown says of his venture. “If it wasn't for the wonderful people here who believed and invested in me, this would not happen.” But his business opportunity didn’t happen overnight.

GETTING PHYSICAL To look at 47-year-old Brown, his body perfectly sculpted with not an ounce of fat apparent, it is hard to believe there was a time when he lacked the confidence to walk into a gym. “I was heavy growing up and have been overweight probably 80 percent of my life,” Brown recalls. At 19, he began lifting weights in a friend’s garage. He’d taken classes at Bakersfield College and Cal State Bakersfield, as well as extension courses through UCLA and University of Southern California, always gravitating back to kinesiology and nutrition. “When my mother was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, I started learning more about the disease and how to manage it,” he said.

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$100 Gift Cards only $90 Eventually, the Bakersfield native began to train others, including Dr. Charles and Judy Fritch. In 1990, Judy Fritch enlisted Brown’s help to set up Lifetime Fitness downtown — at 2415 Eye St. — a new model for gyms and one of only several locally at the time, well before the big box workout chains arrived. “I was only supposed to help her set this up, but a couple months turned into 20-plus years and a lifelong friendship,” said Brown, who took over in 2004. Today, it remains a popular place for his highly motivated clients to work out and feed off the communal camaraderie. “It's definitely a family atmosphere.” It wouldn’t be long before the gym “'family” would play a role in a business endeavor he was about to embark on. But before that happened, he had to take a long, hard look at himself in the mirror.

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WALKING THE WALK Brown’s weight had soared to nearly 340 pounds. He was talking the talk but wasn’t walking the walk. “For a period of time I stopped being concerned about myself, and I had a lot of excuses,” he said. “I had to get honest with myself. And the minute I did that, everything began to change.” Dissatisfied with the efficacy of supplements on the market, he teamed up with biochemists and nutritionists who helped him create a line of all-natural, effective products. Brown began doing research on the adiponectin hormone secreted from adipose tissue and found in a pregnant woman’s placenta. “I became intrigued and wondered why I couldn’t use that along with natural nutrients,” Brown said. Flirting with his 40s, Brown says he was beginning to adopt the adage that as one ages, they should work smarter, not harder. In 2009, he approached a manufacturer on the East Coast. “Before they would even entertain the offer of working together, my wife and I had to put up our entire savings,” he said incredulously. But Brown had an instant fan in the manufacturer’s wife, who had lost nearly 90 pounds using his as-yet unnamed products. Three years ago, Brown used himself and 3,700 study participants as guinea pigs. The results were staggering. Brown dropped 153 pounds in nine months. Last year, he said, a group of gym members who agreed to use his product lost a collective 11,000 pounds.

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HIGH PRAISE In a market flooded with weight-loss enhancers, many making bogus claims, Brown’s star ingredient in his sublingual appetite suppressant, “Keep it Together,” is the hottest new fat buster right now, which uses garcinia cambogia derived from a pumpkin-shaped fruit from southeast Asia. The Pat Brown System uses raw materials and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved ingredients. To learn more about Brown’s other supplements, go to patbrownsystem.com. His program has won him high praise from locals and celebrities, like country musician Matt Stillwell. “With what I do, being on the road, it is tough for me to have a workout schedule,” Stillwell said. “Now my energy is good. The ‘Wind Down’ (supplement) is as important for me as anything because my mind is always going, and when I need to sleep, that is a big deal.” Ken Phillips, a 31-year-old gym regular, began using the system earlier this year when he was 300 pounds, he said. He lost 130 pounds and lost 12 inches following Brown’s program of supplements, sensible eating and exercise. “He gives you the tools and challenges you,” Phillips said. “But you have to put it into motion.”

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Finding people willing to use the product was easy. But getting it off the ground and marketing it to consumers around the globe has taken an enormous investment of time, energy and finances, Brown said. But Brown seems unflappable at any setbacks and unstoppable. “We literally started in a back room of our house,” he said of the business launched on a tennis shoe-string budget with his wife Kelly, whom he calls the backbone of the venture. “She puts this thing together and is the glue that keeps it together. She has really made it happen.” While the list of devotees continues to grow, including Olympic and professional athletes, the system is now shipped around the world, sold only through his website and Amazon.com. Brown said celebrities have reached out, and product endorsement negotiations are underway. Several months ago, Brown struck a deal to acquire his own production plant, making it easier to track his products from their infancy through shipment. The program advocates loving yourself, believing in yourself and respecting yourself. And the mantra appears to have served Pat Brown well, as he savors the success of this part of his “Wonderful Life.” “I’m still pinching myself at this opportunity,” Brown said. “This is my destiny, wherever it takes me.”

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Dick Cook, center, represents the Will Rogers Institute board of directors with Chuck Viane, left, and Jennifer RogersEtcheverry during a donation ceremony for the Lauren Small Children's Medical Center. Cook, a Bakersfield native, spent 38 years at Disney. He is now chairman of KCETLink.

STEAM TRAIN POWERS TO TOP Dick Cook, Bakersfield native and former Walt Disney Studios exec, tells about life at Disney, entertainment industry Compiled by Kevin McCloskey

akersfield native Richard W. “Dick” Cook began his impressive career as ride operator at Disneyland in 1970. His 38-year engagement at Disney culminated with an extremely successful turn as the head of Walt Disney Studios. Among the standout jobs during his tenure at Disney was conducting the Steam Train. “I still think it was the best job I ever had!” said Cook, a North High grad. Under Cook’s leadership, Disney helped usher in the era

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PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

REAL PEOPLE

of digital cinema for theatrical releases, led a digital 3D revolution, and released 60 films that domestically grossed more than $100 million each. The University of Southern California grad has been the recipient of numerous industry and humanitarian awards including “The Walt Disney Man of the Year Award” by Big Brothers Big Sisters, and “Pioneer of the Year” by The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation. Cook is now the chairman of KCETLink, the largest public television station in the United States, and treasurer of the board of governors for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and he sits on the boards of Legendary Pictures and Will Rogers Foundation. This successful son of Kern County graciously took some time to answer a few questions for Bakersfield Life and gave us a peek into the massive entertainment industry. If you found yourself in Bakersfield today with a few hours to kill, how would you spend it? I still get to Bakersfield pretty often as my family still lives there. If I had a few hours ... hmm, I think I would have lunch at Mexicali (No. 7 on the menu) and make the short drive to Dewar’s for a “black and white” sundae (ice cream and walnuts). Those are two of my favorites. And then I’d cruise down Chester Avenue to get back to my folk’s home.

When you began working at Disneyland as a young man, what was your favorite job? The Steam Train. I think every kid at one time or another wants to be a conductor on a steam train. I know I did, and I got to play out my childhood fantasy and get paid to do it. It was fun traveling through all of the different lands at Disneyland ... and watching the kids on the train taking everything in with awe and wonderment. There was nothing like it. You have the reputation of being one of the nicest guys in Hollywood. Can you share with us your secrets for dealing with people in an industry notorious for huge egos while still maintaining your sanity and good nature? That’s funny. I have never thought about behaving any way other than who I am. My family has always been about treating everyone with respect. I work in a very creative and often times passionate industry. At times, that passion can manifest itself in different forms. At the end of the day, it should only be about making the product better, but don’t confuse being nice as being soft!

Dick Cook served as executive producer on the movie “42,” the story about Jackie Robinson.

Continued on page 138

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Continued from page 137 You stepped from behind the scenes to serve as an executive producer on the Jackie Robinson biopic “42.” Was there something about this movie that enticed you to take an expanded role in its creation? Absolutely! I actually wanted to make “42” when I was at Disney. I am a sports fanatic, and I love movies about sports having made many of them at Disney (“Remember the Titans,” “The Rookie,” “Invincible,” “Miracle,” “The Greatest Game Every Played,” “Glory Road” and “Secretariat”). In order for them to work as a movie, however, they have to be about much more than the sport. Jackie Robinson’s story had it all. And to think, by changing the game of baseball, Brooklyn Dodgers’ (general manager) Branch Rickey and Jackie Robinson changed the course of history. As a story, it doesn’t get better than that. As the recently elected chairman of the KCETLink board of directors, what does the future hold for KCET programming? The future is very exciting. KCETLink is positioned to be a pioneer for public media in developing a new model that is meaningful for today’s world of digital production and engagement, global content and local news, as a few examples. Already, KCETLink is moving the industry dial with unique programs such as Artbound, Departures international news and SoCal Connected.

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December 2013

A HIKE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

A short drive from downtown, Hart Park offers plenty of trail choices.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

FIT AND FRESH

Try these local family outings, December runs, inexpensive gift ideas for healthy lifestyles, and much more By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann

The trees along Trail of 100 Giants are 500 to 1,500 years old. 140

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PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

TAKE A HIKE! Don’t let the holidays hole you up in your house. Take advantage of the kids being home from school and introduce them to all of the wonderful outdoor activities that Bakersfield has to offer. Hiking is brilliant way to connect with your family and enjoy quality time together and teach your little explorers about nature, respect for the great outdoors, and physical fitness. Here are some tips for a fun, memorable and safe family hike: • Know your limitations. Before you set out on your adventure, take into account your family’s abilities. Don’t embark on a course that is too strenuous for your group. Research the area, weather and terrain. • Wear the right shoes. Make sure the footwear your family is sporting has a good amount of tread, so no one goes slipping or sliding into a twisted ankle. If hiking boots are in order, make sure they are well broken in because blisters are

no fun. No flip flops. • Be prepared. Always pack water, snacks, a camera and a First Aid kit. If your child is old enough, let her hike with her own backpack. Don’t overpack but do make sure you have enough water for the whole group. • Dress in layers. The weather in Kern County this time of year can play tricks on us. The morning may start out cold and overcast, yet end sunny and warm. As always, a good layer of sun block is in order. • Have respect. Don’t leave your garbage. What you pack in, you must pack out. Your trash not only spoils the landscape, it also spoils the experience for other hikers. Be kind, conscience, and pass on a sense of right and wrong to your little ones. If you encounter rubbish on your hike, be a good steward of our home by picking it up, and packing it out. Here are my top five beginner family hikes to explore in and around Kern County. The Panorama Bluffs: Off Panorama Drive, the Bluffs are conveniently located and boast a maze of trials that are perfect for even the youngest of explorers. The bluffs are fun for an afternoon hike or play date. Hart Park: A plethora of trails weave in and out of Hart Park, which hosts trails for all skill levels, beautiful vistas and lots of wildlife. It’s a short drive away on Alfred Harrell Highway. Sunday Peak Trail: A good intermediate family day hike. At nearly two miles with uphill terrain, you should be familiar with your family’s ability before heading out. The amazing views make this trail worth the extra travel. The trailhead is next to the Girl Scout camp parking area off of Forest Highway 90. Mill Creek: The Mill Creek Trail is for the more advanced family trekkers. Beginning past Highway 178 on Old Kern Canyon Road, Mill Creek is about a seven-mile adventure. Depending on the time of year, you may get your feet wet at a couple of creek crossings. Be prepared for more of a strenuous hike with some steep grades along the trail. Trail of 100 Giants: This enchanted trial is a must for all families. It’s an easy, child-friendly (not to mention stroller-friendly) hike guaranteed to amaze young and old alike. Located in Sequoia National Park, Trail of 100 Giants a part of the Long Meadow Grove, which con-

DECEMBER EVENTS Mr. Toads Wild Run 5K, 20K: This hilly, challenging run on Dec. 7 starts at the Pistol Range in Hart Park. Choose the 5K (up a mile, across a mile, downhill a mile), or take on some large hills in the 20K. It’s low-key, fun event with beautiful scenery. Get some hill training in before you attempt this one. First Greenhorn Grunt & Grind: This 10-mile, 3,500foot hill climb on Dec. 7 starts on the shore of Lake Isabella and ends up in the pines of Alta Sierra. Each team consists of two participants, who alternate between running and riding in leapfrog fashion using one bike. More information: bakersfieldtrackclub.com — Sally Baker

INEXPENSIVE GIFTS TO PROMOTE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE • Yoga mat: The perfect gift for the yogi or non-yogi. Nice to stretch, take a nap on, or simply find a spot and relax. A cloth bag to keep it in is a nice addition. (Gaiam Tree of Wisdom mat, $21.99, Target) • Resistance bands: Great gift for an at-home workout, or throw in your suitcase when you travel. Choose strength appropriate bands. • Free weights: I encourage all my clients to purchase two pairs of free weights for home use. For women, one set of three to five pounds, and a set of 10 pound bells is ideal. For men five to eight pound, and a set of 15 pound bells is ideal. Keep in a place where you will use them, like on the bathroom counter. Wrap with a big ribbon! (Champion Free Weights, three pound weights, $5.49, Target)

Continued on page 142 Yoga mats, free weights and fingerfree running gloves are thoughtful, healthcentered gifts. THINKSTOCK.COM

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Mill Creek Trail heads toward the top of Breckenridge Mountain.

tains more than 100 giant sequoias that are more than 10 feet in diameter, and estimated to be between 500 and 1,500 years old. The trail is a truly unique treasure right on our very doorstep, and the joy of watching children marvel at the ginormous trees is magical indeed. It is quite a drive from Kern. Plus, roads to the trail in the winter months are subject to snow closure. Before you head out, call 760-376-3781 or visit www.fs.fed.us. — Katie Kirschenmann

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Continued from page 141 • Bento box: Now available in many places, these cute little boxes protect your lunch from getting squished in your briefcase or backpack, with small compartments for your sandwich, wrap, grapes and more. • Finger-free running gloves: An open-ended mitten style glove, perfect for running, keep hands and wrists warm while protecting the back of hand, but allow you to use fingers when necessary. They’re available in the women’s athletic clothing section at Target. (Champion fingerless running mittens, $12.99, Target) • Gym membership: Take advantage of a special “Fit and Fresh” Christmas special at Total Woman Fitness — three months for $99. Call 325-0208 for more details on this offer. — Sally Baker

This is an easy, fast and simple recipe when you need to take something festive, but healthy, to a Christmas get-together. These cheesy, crispy polenta wedges are easy using shelfstable, store-bought polenta in the plastic tube, and topped with a tasty sun-dried tomato topping using ingredients thrown in your blender. A wedge is just 20 calories, perfect when paired with a crisp champagne, or cold, sparkling seltzer.

Parmesan polenta wedges with tomato tepenade.

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December 2013

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Parmesan polenta wedges with tomato tapenade Ingredients: 1 16- to 18-ounce tube prepared polenta, sliced thinly canola or olive oil spray 3/4 cup soft sun-dried tomatoes 4 teaspoons olive oil 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 tablespoon chopped garlic finely grated parmesan cheese pinch freshly ground pepper Directions: Preheat broiler, coat baking sheet with oil spray. Place polenta slices on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with oil. Broil until they start to brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Flip each slice, and sprinkle lightly with finely grated parmesan cheese. Broil again until golden, but watch carefully, about 10 minutes. In the blender, add the sun-dried tomatoes, oil, parsley, garlic and pepper, scraping down the sides as needed. Do not over blend. Leave some “chunkiness.” Cut polenta slices in halves or quarters as you prefer and top with 1/4 teaspoon of the tomato tapenade. Enjoy!

— Sally Baker

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

HEALTH FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY ‘Family Physician of the Year’ award recipient shares tips to take care of your entire family By Chelsea Brewer

Photos by Henry A. Barrios

or Michelle Quiogue (pronounced Kee-OGee), winning the 2013 “family physician of the year award” wasn’t just any old surprise. She is the president of the Kern County Academy of Family Physicians and chairwoman of the California Academy of Family Physicians. So when she realized that her nomination had been kept secret from her, she was shocked. “They had fake nominees to throw me off,” she said. “But I had to miss a meeting, so they didn’t even have to worry about me finding out.” The Orange County native studied at Brown University before making her way back to California. She completed her residency in Los Angeles and moved to Bakersfield, where she’s called home for the last 10 years. Opting out of surgery and hospital work, Quiogue wanted more longitudinal relationships out of her practice, she said. Her focus was more on preventative medicine and keeping patients healthy. She found her perfect spot with Kaiser Permanente and has been enjoying working with a regular panel of patients since. “I love family health care,” she said. “It’s the best specialty there is. It’s like having an extended family.” Quiogue sat down with Bakersfield Life to chat family health, problems here and solutions. What is one of the biggest health problems you encounter here in Kern County? Obesity. Kern County is one of the most obese counties in California. The more I learn about obesity, the more I learn it’s a metabolic disease. It affects endocrine health and the immune system and causes heart problems and diabetes. We need to eat real food, mostly plants, and everything in moderation. We also need to learn coping skills for stress so we won’t rely so much on overeating. And we should be exercising at least 30 minutes a day, three times a week. Kids should do an hour a day. If you can do more, you should!

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December 2013

Michelle Quiogue, from Kaiser Permanente, is president of the Kern County Academy of Family Physicians.

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Continued from page 144 What are your thoughts on the air quality in Bakersfield, and how it affects our health? I see a lot of allergies, asthma and Valley Fever here. There’s some old wisdom I’ve picked up since living here: Don’t go outside when it’s windy. Pay attention to those air quality alerts. When it’s a poor air quality day, stay inside as much as you can. Also, pollen counts go up in the evening. So if you have allergies, do everything you have to do outside in the morning. How do you feel about vaccines? Vaccines have changed the face of medicine. But we’re becoming a victim of our own success. We’re so close to getting rid of what we’re getting vaccinated for, but some people still think they’re unnecessary. We need to keep getting them in order to eliminate the need completely. In this day and age, it’s such a privilege to have vaccines. We’ve got 20 diseases we can fight. So don’t say, “No, thank you.” Get vaccinated! What other health tips can you share for the whole family? • Eat seasonally. Lycopenes in the summer help to prevent cancer, and citruses in the winter help to prevent colds.

Quiogue was named “Family Physician of the Year” by California Academy of Family Physicians. • The evidence on multi-vitamins isn’t so good. It’s better to maintain an overall healthy diet in order to get the vitamins and minerals our bodies need. • Get regular preventative care and blood panels and establish a trusting relationship with a primary care doctor. They will be able to tailor your personal care to what you need. • Wear sunscreen every day!

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December 2013

TRIP PLANNER

PLAYING ON CARRIZO PLAIN

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

Swath of land near Taft is home to San Andreas Fault, Painted Rock, other natural beauty

Carrizo’s Soda Lake is the largest remaining natural alkali wetland in California.

By Lois Henry

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOIS HENRY

went in search of the San Andreas Fault, and I found it. And, though it was cool, it wasn’t necessarily the highlight of the trip. First, here’s why I was out hunting up the big daddy of California fault lines: I had signed up for a geology class on the SAF (cool geologist lingo for San Andreas Fault) through the Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning at Bakersfield College. It was only a couple of weeks long, and I thought it’d be fun.

Lois Henry walks on top of Soda Lake in the Carrizo Plain Natural Area. 148

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December 2013

Apparently, there aren’t as many like-minded geeks out there because the class was canceled due to lack of sign ups. Lame. OK, fine, I thought. How hard can it be to find this giant rip in the earth that occasionally tosses whole cities around like garden salads? Not that hard, as it turns out. A little Internet time and, voila! ... I had my trip all planned out.

SODA LAKE I packed a lunch and a lot of water and headed out to the Carrizo Plain Natural Area, a national monument run mostly by the Bureau of Land Management. It’s a huge swath of land that’s bordered by Highway 58 on the north and Highway 166 on the south. I started on the northern tip and explored around that end. My trip took about five hours, so if you want to see the whole thing, give yourself a lot more time. Or, don’t do what I do and make unscheduled stops that turn into entirely separate outings. Had I stuck to the self-guided fault tour that I had printed out, I likely would have been home much earlier. Oh well. When you come in from the northern edge, the first thing you’ll see is Soda Lake. In the summer and fall, it’s dry. Surrounding creeks drain into Soda Lake, which has no outlet, so the surface turns to a salt crust when it dries up. From a distance, it looks like a brilliant snow field. Of course, I had get out there and walk around on it. It’s a little crunchy on top, but mostly powdery and dry, in case you’re wondering.

Painted Rock features lizards, deer and diamond patterns that were painted over the course of 1,000 years.

PHOTO BY LOIS HENRY

San Andreas Fault tremors caused Wallace Creek to bend nearly 90 degrees.

PAINTED ROCK I had also called the Bureau of Land Management prior to my trip to get a permit for a self-guided walk to Painted Rock, which is a short ways from the center. I shouldn’t have bothered calling though. The 1-800 person had no idea what she was talking about. In short, I ended the conversation with a syrupy, “Thank you for being so extremely helpful!” and hung up before I used words my mother would not be proud of. After all the phone hassle, it turned out the Goodwin center was open, and the ranger there gave me a Painted Rock permit in less than a minute. Easy peasy. And Painted Rock was totally worth the side trip. You drive from the ranger station a couple of miles to a parking area and then walk about three-quarters of a mile out to the rock, which looks like a big weird lump on the side of a sloping plain. Once you get inside of the formation shaped like a horseshoe, it takes a few minutes to really understand what you’re seeing. Lots of high school and college kids have scrawled their names into the soft rock, sure. But look beyond that and you see lizards, deer, diamond patterns and more that were painted here by the Chumas, Salinan and Yokuts people over the course of 1,000 years.

Researchers study Wallace Creek, attempting to link movement from San Andreas fault.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

The internet guide starts at the Goodwin Education Center, which I thought was going to be closed, according to the land management website. It wasn’t, which was a good thing. But it would have been nice to have accurate information.

Unfortunately, a lot of pictographs have been damaged. But enough remain to make the place pretty spectacular. While this was totally cool, I realized I still had to find the San Andreas Fault, and it was getting late.

WALLACE CREEK The easiest place to see the fault, according to my guide, was Wallace Creek, just a few miles across the Carrizo Plain from the Goodwin center. Wallace Creek has a well-marked parking area. Lots of plaques at the top of a hill tell you what you’re looking at, which is helpful. Without that, and my handy, dandy guide, I’d have thought it was an abandoned canal or something.

Continued on page 150 bakersfieldlife.com

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Continued from page 149

On the Web San Andreas Fault, Carrizo Plain National Monument Wallace Creek • scec.org/wallacecreek This is a great site that’s practically like a geology class in itself. I just printed the self-guided auto tours, but you can get into all the exercises, if you want.

creek bed. The fault isn’t as aweinspiring as Painted Rock, I thought initially. Later though, I thought about the kind of force it would take to hurl the earth a few hundred feet one way or another. It’s definitely impressive.

List of places to see the fault • sanandreasfault.org Goodwin Education Center (Bureau of Land Management) Check for the best information on what’s happening at the monument (hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday to Sunday. • blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/bakersfield/ Programs/carrizo/goodwin.html

Painted Rock is shaped like a horseshoe and inside patterns painted by the Chumas, Salinan and Yokuts people.

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PHOTO BY LOIS HENRY

But no, the guide says. What you see is how Wallace Creek flowed west out of the Temblors, then the fault had a hiccup and bent the creek bed nearly 90 degrees to the north for a few hundred feet. I took a picture of myself at the bottom of the

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American Lung Association Holiday Poinsettia Kickoff Oct. 15 Held at Bakersfield Association of Realtors Photos by Tony Moreno View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

David Knoeb, Kelly Walters, Maddie Jannsen, Susanne Campbell, Tami Smith Lopez and Linda Jay

Pricilla Bacus, Patti Patterson and Vicki Blatt

Daryl Thiesen and Scott Thygerson

Jorge Chavez, Jennifer Owens, Emily Graves, William Lancaster, Jamie Axlerad and Taylor Nousch

Amanda Jones and Cindy Callaghan

Jimmy Phillips, Mayor Harvey Hall and David Knoeb

Janie Dryer, Alicia Ballesteros and Marsha Howard

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Boys and Girls Club Artfest Sept. 21 Held at Moorea Banquet Centre Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Maria and Julian Herrera

Marc and Shannon Caputo

Andrea Martinez and Reggie Roberson

Robin Bunyan, Kristin Weber, Kelly and David McCarthy

Jean Scheiber, Orlando Trevino and Janet Ursery

Amy and Brandon Carey

Vincent and Erin Sorena, Alexandra and Justin Batey

Maricela Garcia and Raquel Brown

April Wheeler and Christal Wuest

Scary for Charity benefiting CASA Oct. 26 Held at Bakersfield Marriott Photos by Jan St Pierre View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Tiffiny Alvidrez, Erin James, Emilee Gonsalves and Jannell Turner

Donna Gilzean and Stacey Parrish

Candy McGee, Aurora Coburn and Christina Hernandez

David and Cathy Szabu, Janette Sandoval and Daisy Diaz

Bobby Cloud

Nubia Madrigal and Gaby Tamayo

Jasmine Langston and Stephanie Celio

Jay and Jennifer Nolen

Robert and Susan Gonzalez, Jay and Rachel Rich, and Greg and Doris Sons 154

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Kern-Kaweah Chapter Sierra Club Fall Dinner Oct 26 Held at Bakersfield Racquet Club Photos by Brian N. Willhite View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Marge and Warren Minner

Paul Gipe, Cal French and Gordon Nipp

Loise French, Suzanne Weller and Glenn Gregory

Kathy and Harry Love

Ann Gallon and Margie Bell

Celebrating every moment bead by bead, story by story.

Dan Marble, Nancy Marble and Prudy Covey

HOLIDAY TRUNK SHOW DEC. 11-14 Gifts, prizes and special Trunk Show pricing

Rogelio Vargas, Chris Romanini and Marion Vargas

661-829-2288 â&#x20AC;˘ 9500 Brimhall Rd. Suite 705 â&#x20AC;˘ beladagio.com bakersfieldlife.com

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Shoot for a Chance to Change a Child's Life Oct. 26 Held at California Highway Patrolmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club of Kern County (Bakersfield 420 Club) Photos by Brian N. Willhite View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Jesse Alvarez Sr. and Ana Fernandez

Shane Dickerson, Levi Williams and Neil Weiting

Kevin, Jilliann, Reagann and Sofie Zimmermann

Kris and Hannah Muhm

Everett Dickerson and Garrilynn Middleton

Warren Duff, Richard Mo, Simon Cruz and David Benson

Kasey Lewis and Lynda Pierce

Scott Burnett and Mark Dickerson

Air Force Health Professions

Air Force Health Professions 11075 Santa Monica Blvd, Ste 300 Los Angeles, CA 90025

Office: 310-481-5089 Fax: 310-481-5088 timothy.bernau@us.af.mil AIRFORCE.COM/healthcare

TIMOTHY A. BERNAU Master Sergeant, USAF Air Force Recruiter 1-800-423-USAF

Mike Vitale, Aubrie Felkins, Mike Ariey and Jeff Biggs 156

Bakersfield Life Magazine

December 2013

Swing for the Stars Golf Tournament Oct. 28 Held at Rio Bravo Country Club Photos by Mark Nessia View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Tony Bales, Bob Grady and Matt Eastman Phil Bentley, Randy Jelmini and Jim Fillbrandt

Joslin Alexander, Bobbie Moore and Brandi Bales

Steve Suorez and Julie Gaines

Ron Sabedra, Russ Kinney, Buddy Maltone, Ken Beggs, Steve Derington and Glenn Crowson

Jim Fordyce and Tina Posey

Noah Calugaru, Scott Ezell, Jaime Kerhulas and Dustin Shawn

Carinne Cowell and Mark Manns

Bonnie Ramsdell, Jan Minot, Bobbie Moore and Claudia Burk

Refugio Verdugo, Bob Garcia, Dustin Garcia and Ray Villareal bakersfieldlife.com

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Under the Harvest Moon Oct. 19 Held at MARE Riding Center Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Richard and Janna McBurnie

Nathan and Bonnie Whiting

Erica Renick and Ira Masters

John Rodriguez, Mikey Williams and Monica Ramos

Mel and Diana Owens and Sharon and Ralph Wegis

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Jennifer Haines and Diane Hopkins

Tommy Ellison and Kim Odlaug

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December 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21

Call 325-6100 or visit www.bmtstars.com Darlene Beals, Jim and Cathy Shaw and Rick Hopkins 158

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December 2013

Altares de Familia Nov. 2 Held at Bakersfield Museum of Art Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Michael Fragoso, Anhelica Perez and Christopher Simmons

Vianney, Maura, Maritza and Mateo Diaz

Jose, Crystal and Monica Gonzalez

Ron and Mary Cruz and Janis and Crystal Lopez

Camille Fulton, Isis Barron and Penny Fulton

Bakersfield Racquet Club

Mon, Wed, Thurs 5:30pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sat 8:30 am

Riverlakes Community Center Tues, Thur 9 am For more info:

Kimberly Oliver, Dylan Prewett and Alison Decker

Sharon and Destiny Gilbert

589-8950 or Jazzercise.com For tickets call 661-832-0592 Or visit BakersfieldMasterChorale.org Ticket Outlets: California Keyboards Music Center, Russoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Books at The Marketplace & World Records Adults $20 Students $10

Rebecca and Leslie Rivera, Edwin and Kalissa Zuniga and Karina Cortez bakersfieldlife.com

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Dreaming Beyond the Stars Nov. 1 Held at The Padre Hotel Photos by Mark Nessia View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Shellie and Kevin Cobb

Rock and Claire Stevens

Noel and Lynn Del Mundo

Shelby Hale and Victoria Shaffer

Tamir and Mehrnoosh Oheb, Janet and Max Bacerra and Rey Cadiz

Kiyoshi and Cecilia Tomono

Araceli and Carlos Herrera

Imelda Ceja-Butkiewicz, Maryann Barker and Erica Barker 160

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December 2013

Appetite for Sight Nov. 14 Held at Stockdale Country Club Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com

Gail and Bryn Abdou and Rachel Fowler Karen Dang, Kathryne Balfour and Virginie and Vin Dang

Irene and Bruce Laverty

Janine and Mark Ortgies, and Scott and Jeanette Dobbs

Greg Tobias, Peter Bae and Jada Tobias

Check out the Clubhouse located inside the Bakersfield RV Resort!! With seating up to 125 people,

Dave Nicholas and Shannon Grove

Sandra and Anthony Baker

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect setting for your business or family celebrations. All your guests will love the food catered exclusively from the Crest Bar and Grill. Spaces are filling up fast so call today for more information!!

Karen Goh, Neil Schwartz and Alissa Carlson bakersfieldlife.com

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INSIDE STORY

CALM HOLIDAYLIGHTS Get an inside look on what’s new at this year’s local favorite holiday attraction Compiled by Kern County Superintendent of Schools

Photos by Casey Christie

ne of Kern County’s favorite community attractions — California Living Museum’s HolidayLights — will welcome families through Dec. 31. Here’s everything you’ve never knows about this local holiday staple.

More than 2 million lights are used to create one of Kern County’s favorite attractions.

HISTORY AND PHILANTHROPY • Started 11 years ago and more than 400,000 people have visited CALM HolidayLights since then. • A record 58,000 people attended last year. • Designed by Josh Barnett and his company Lightasmic! • Supports the CALM Foundation, with funds used to enhance CALM and develop new exhibits. Examples of this include “Cats of California” mountain lion exhibit, and the newest desert bighorn sheep exhibit. • HolidayLights also benefits Teen Challenge, which operates the concession stands and assists with parking volunteers. • Kern County businesses and organizations provide more than $100,000 in HolidayLights sponsorships each year. • The show has been updated and enhanced with new, lowenergy LED lights, new displays and a “fill in” effect that enhanced the light show.

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A colorful peacock lights up the night at CALM during the HolidayLights event.

BEFORE YOU GO • Open Nov. 29 through Dec. 31 (closed Christmas Day), from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. each night. • Features more than 2 million lights, installed and designed by Barnett. • Nearly 1,000 volunteers help make HolidayLights a success each year. • New displays include: - a new interactive display where children will be able to choose the colors on a large light display and color their own display. - A “fill-in” effect to enhance several of the displays. - Statue of Liberty display. • Central California Children’s Railroad becomes the “Candy Cane Express” and will again offer free train rides. Also returning is the carousel. • Teen Challenge operates the concession stands, as well as a tent for catered parties for groups and companies (call 661477-2901 to schedule an event in the party tent) • Group discounts are available for groups of 20 people or more. • Tickets are $2 off from Monday through Thursday the first two weeks of the event, through Dec. 12. • Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic dinner, and dine under the lights

TICKETS • Tickets available at Vallitix.com, and at CALM (872-2256). Buy tickets in advance to beat the lines. • Tickets are $6 for children ages 3 through 12; $10 for senior citizens; and $12 for adults. Free parking. • CALM members receive a 50 percent discount for any day of the event. • Grounds are alcohol- and tobacco-free. • Attendees receive a free pass to visit CALM during the daytime to see the animals. • CALM is at 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway, between Hart Park and Lake Ming. • Volunteer can contact Lana Fain at 871-1822. More information: calmzoo.org.

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BLife Dec1_BLife template 11/21/13 12:41 PM Page 1

December 2013

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Discover ways to celebrate December Meet four of Santa’s helpers

bakersfieldlife.com

Closed end lease for 2013 Fit 5 Speed Automatic (GE8H3DEXW) available from November 5, 2013 through January 6, 2014, to well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings. MSRP $17,015.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $15,221.14. Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. Total monthly payments $5,364.00. Option to purchase at lease end $10,038.85. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by January 6, 2014. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/ year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

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bakersfieldlife.com

Snow

in the city? “Shining Bright” by Rubia Dalbosco van Roodselaar

11/21/13 12:43 PM