TM
March 2012
S P E C I A L FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y I S S U E
bakersďŹ eldlife.com
Get to know fashion model and Stockdale High grad
Joni Kempner
17
Great looks for spring
Chop suey and mai tais
Food Dudes at Bill Lee’s
Looking for romance We found 15 local singles
McDonald'sÂŽ new Apple Cinnamon Walnut Oatmeal brings a delightful twist to a wholesome favorite: All natural whole grain oats loaded with crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and mixed with a savory flavor of cinnamon. This wholesome goodness has two servings of whole grain and 270 calories. Try it today - it's here for a limited time only.
Apple Cinnamon Walnut Oatmeal Limited time offer. At participating McDonald's. Š2012 McDonald's.
Come in and test drive a Mazda today. 2012 Mazda CX9 Seats 7
2012 Mazda 3 Skyactiv
www.bakersfieldmazda.com
3201 Cattle Drive
(661) 328-8000
Bakersfield Auto Mall
Bakersfield
MITSUBISHI
Since 1917
2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
www.bakersfieldmitsubishi.com
4600 Wible Rd
2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
661-398-9422
Bakersfield Auto Mall
BAKERSFIELD
CHRYSLER JEEP
速
2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
2012 Chrysler 200 S
3101 Cattle Drive
www.drivecj.com
Bakersfield Auto Mall
(661) 832-3000
Signature Properties, Signature Service M A R C H
Mary Christenson
2 0 1 2
F E AT U R E S
S pecializing
in Luxury Homes, Estate Properties and Golf Course Communities
Direct Cell
301-MARY
DRE License #00818891
(301-6279)
Golf Course & Lake Views! 2205 Norwich Way
21
Finding Fame
22
My Mobile Life
For this new feature, we highlighted Joni Kempner, a Stockdale High grad who is making her way as a model and actress.
We caught up with Heidi Wiegel, manager at ladies fashion boutique Sugardaddy’s, and discovered some of her favorite smartphone apps.
$1,099,950
Seven Oaks on golf course with full lake views! Over 5800 s.f. of pure luxury living! Grand marble entry, sweeping staircase, dramatic Great Room, white gourmet double island kitchen. 4+ bdrms, 4.5 bths, den/ofc, game room. Exquisite cabinetry! Huge Master Suite, elegant marble bath. Pool, spa, bbq, big 4+ car garage w/air cond. Appt. only.
54
www. MaryCrealtor.com
We found 15 eligible local singles ready for romance. If you’re looking for love, be sure to check out these men and women.
62
Fashion and beauty profiles
We have the latest in spring fashion! Take a look at the fun, spring trends that 14 local boutiques are carrying for men and women and what three salon and spas have to offer to achieve that fresh, springtime look. 6
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Mark Nessia
See 50 photo visual tours of property listings, and search for homes at:
Bakersfield singles
Bakersfield’s
Favorite Deli!
M A R C H 2 0 1 2
D E PA R T M E N T S Downtown
1231 18th Street (18th and L Streets) 10:30am - 2:15pm Closed Sundays
Phone: (661) 323-2500
Rosedale
9160 Rosedale Highway (Target Shopping Ctr.) 11:00am - 8:00pm Daily
Phone: (661) 587-1600
13 24 26 28
38 42 44
Up Front Happenings It Manners A Lot
Foodie Entertainment For a Cause
Page 80 90 92 94
History Personality Going Green
Kelly Damian Photo by Nuccio Dinuzzo
Southwest
9500 Ming Avenue (Just West of The Marketplace) 7:00am - 3:00pm Closed Sundays
Phone: (661) 665-9990
Fresno/Clovis
765 West Herndon Avenue
(Corner of Herndon and Willow - Target Shopping Ctr.) 11:00am - 8:00pm
Phone: (559) 323-0330 Photo by Greg Nichols
See our full menu and order online at
sequoiasandwich.com
Thank you, Kern County for your continued support! 8
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Felix Adamo
TM
30 34
Food Dudes Food and Wine
48 All-Star Athlete 50 On the Road 52 Hometown Hero 80 Pastimes 82 Hometown Hero 84 Community 86 Ladies Who …
98 Real People 100 Health and Wellness 102 Talk of the Town 104 Trip Planner 108 Get Out of Town 118 SNAP! 126 Inside Story
Liposuction per area Breast Augmentation Tummy Tuck starting at Rhinoplasty starting at Facial Rejuvenation
(stem cell/graft)
$800 $3,200 $5,000 $4,800 $3,500
Limited time offer
Ask us for a list of patients in Bakersfield who would be very happy to share their experience with us.
See reviews on Dr. K at: doctorbase.com/blog/khosravi
Like us on Facebook Dr. K Plastic Surgery
Find us on Yelp Ryan Khosravi, MD
FEEDBACK Staff Shares
Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine
What’s the worst fashion trend you have followed? “Big sunglasses! I still follow the trend, but I’ve reduced the size of my frames.” — Jolie Brouttier, contributing writer “I did wear a Members Only jacket to an office party in the mid-90s. Luckily, I do not have any pictures, just the lingering shame.” — Kevin McCloskey, contributing writer
“When I was in high school I followed the punk rock trend. I even sported a mohawk a couple of times. Yuck! Talk about one ugly look! — Annie Stephens, contributing writer “Shoulder pads! Once a newscaster’s best friend, now used to prop our Christmas tree up straight. Still wondering which news director had the bright idea that broadcasters could look more credible dressed like a Pittsburgh Steeler! — Lisa Kimble, contributing writer
“Huge skater shoes during elementary school/junior high. I can’t even skateboard — I have no excuse. — Allie Castro, contributing writer
March 2012 / Vol. 6 / Issue 6
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. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin Interactive Advertising Director Sally Ellis Interactive Sales Manager Lisa Whitten Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Marketing Manager Mira Patel Distribution and Marketing Representative Patrick Wells Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Editor Stefani Dias Specialty Publications Coordinator Hillary Haenes
“I like to think that I wore ridiculously baggy pants before they were cool, but I was wrong. They were never cool.” — Mark Nessia, contributing photographer and writer “I’m not really sure what I would classify as my worst fashion trend — in hindsight, there were many. I’d probably have to say the worst would be the early ’80s Cindy Lauper and Madonna fashions or the mid-80s scrunch socks with high-top Reeboks. Ugh! — Shauna Rockwell, advertising traffic manager
TM
Editorial Assistant Marisol Sorto Art Director Glenn Hammett
“So many to choose from, but I’m going to say the ’90s grunge. All that plaid and flannel just made me look like a lumberjack. — Kelly Damian, contributing writer
Photography Felix Adamo, Rostom Aghanian, Maria Ahumada-Garaygordobil, Crystal Alvarez, Alan Antiporda, Henry A. Barrios, Casey Christie, Nuccio Dinuzzo, Michael Fagans, Jessica Frey, Clarice Hammett, Alex Horvath, Tanya X. Leonzo, Greg Nichols, Mark Nessia, Rick Osentoski, Jan St. Pierre, Carla Rivas, Ashley Reyes, Annie Stockman, Brian N. Willhite Contributing writers Vicki Adame, Jolie Brouttier, Allie Castro, Kelly Damian, Gene Garaygordobil, Lois Henry, Lisa Kimble, Stephen Lynch, Dana Martin, Kevin McCloskey, Mark Nessia, Jeff Nickell, Melissa Peaker-Whitten, Gabriel Ramirez, Annie Stephens, Chris Thornburgh, Michael Wafford, Brian N. Willhite Intern Breanna Fields Advertising Lupe Carabajal lcarabajal@bakersfield.com, 395-7563 On the cover Model Joni Kempner on a recent visit back home. Photo by Mark Nessia
10
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
JIM BURKE JAGUAR +)&& =Wieb_d[ 7bb[o" 7kjecWbb ,,'$.)-$,*&& Ef[d ;l[hoZWo M[[ad_]^ji kdj_b .fc Xkha[Wkje$Yec
EDITOR’S NOTE
After many months, I finally visited my hairstylist, Jennifer. The split ends, returning thickness and the grays (oh my!) in my hair reminded me that I needed to see her. Or maybe it was that my husband mentioned he was thinking about getting me a Valentine’s Day gift certificate to Allure Salon so I could spend the day there. “Are you telling me that I need a haircut, Julio?” His response: “Oh no. I just thought you would like that.” Anyway, I realized I kept putting it off because life got in the way. But I am so relieved that I finally made the time. It was nice
to catch up with Jennifer, and, believe me, my hair appreciated the attention it had seriously lacked. Work, family and other activities can sometimes keep us from having a “me day,” but it’s important that we don’t miss moments to pamper ourselves, and it’s one of the reasons we devoted this edition to beauty and fashion. I am privileged to have a number of fashionably chic friends who keep me on my toes about the latest trends and the best shopping deals. This issue is definitely going to come in handy for those days — OK, months — when I seem to overlook myself.
Photo by Tanya X. Leonzo
Fashionably late doesn’t cut it with hair
Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 ogarcia@bakersfield.com
This month I’m loving ...
Apple TV I love watching TV … when I have time. That’s why I like Apple TV; it allows me to download movies/shows on my computer and stream them for viewing later. And it offers Netflix. $99.99, Best Buy.
12
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Matrix sleek.look If your hair is thick or wavy like mine, you may want to try Matrix’s sleek.look shampoo and conditioner. It smoothes and softens hair in a heartbeat. $16 to $20 per bottle, check local beauty salons.
Tuneband For those who like listening to music while working out, consider this iPod/ iPhone band. I have tried many and have been left unsatisfied. This one works perfect, so lightweight and reliable. $19.99, Amazon.com.
UP FRONT Word on the Street Compiled by Ashley Reyes
What is the most you have spent on a pair of shoes and why? “The most was $30 because I can always find cute shoes for a very reasonable price.”
“$220 for a pair of Jordans because someone stepped on my other ones.”
“$90 for Reebok Fit because they work out your legs and butt.”
Mariah Shinn
Raul Venegas
Valerie Charles
“$125 for a pair of basketball shoes back in 1991 because they were the best.”
“$100 for Nike Free Runs because they are comfortable.”
“$225 for a pair of work boots.”
Dave Moore
Andrea Venegas
Mike Whorf
“$350 for a double pack of Jordans because they were Jordans.”
“$79 on Nikes for the gym. They were cute.”
“$299 for some kneehigh black leather Jessica Simpson boots. They were super cute and I had to have them no matter the price.”
David Chavez
Maria Gomez
Maribel Sanchez
Only 5% of the lawyers in the state are named . Daniel Rodriguez has been selected by Southern California’s Super Lawyers Magazine as one of the Top Attorneys for the last three years in a row!
When you need a REALLY good lawyer!!
2020 Eye Street (661) 323-1400
bakersfieldlife.com
13
UP FRONT T E L L U S W H AT YOU THINK!
Facebook contest E N G AG E
What’s your biggest fashion faux pas? IN THE
Winner of our faux diamond necklace: TM
SOCIAL NETWORK VOICE YOUR OPINIONS in periodic web-based surveys and polls
FAC E B O O K .C O M / BAKERSFIELDLIFE M AG A Z I N E
@BAKERSFIELDLIFE
AVA I L A B L E 2 4 / 7 AT BAKERSFIELDLIFE.COM
14
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
“My childhood was a fashion faux pas. I was always a little bigger than my sisters, so when I got in middle school my mother only bought me sweat pants. She said she didn’t want to buy pants my size. I was so embarrassed. I will never wear sweats again.” — April Yeager
Other entries: “I color-coordinated my purple and blue tie-dye shirt with blue bike shorts, blue and purple scrunchy socks and hiking boots in elementary school. Not my finest fashion moment!” — Rhonda Ledbetter-Glenn “After three months of maternity leave, for comfort, I wore a maternity shirt to work. My first customer that day said, ‘Katie, you haven’t had that baby yet?’ Stunned, and reluctantly I said, ‘Yes, I have had the baby, and still look preggo.’ Don’t wear maternity shirts if you’re not pregnant.” — Katie Blake “I was wearing my most professional Ann Taylor suit and prepared to make a presentation to a large group. I walked into the meeting room confidently, only to have an audience member point out I was still connected to the toilet paper and my skirt was tucked in my pantyhose!” — Sonja Jackson Bush
BA K E R S FI E L D H EART H O S P I TA L .COM
How much do you know about
Peripheral Vascular Disease?
Peripheral Vascular Disease affects about eight million people in the United States.
True
False
TRUE. Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) causes the narrowing of vessels that carry blood to the legs, arms and other organs. Individuals with PVD are at greater risk for heart attack, stroke and loss of limbs. It is a very serious medical condition, yet the symptoms of PVD are often mistaken as signs of arthritis, fatigue or old age. Don’t take chances with your vascular health—know the facts. Schedule your quick, painless PVD screening at the Bakersfield Heart Hospital TODAY. To learn more or to schedule a FREE Screening Call
661.316.6000
3001 Sillect Avenue | Bakersfield, CA 93308
We’re here to help.
UP FRONT It’s Named After
By Lisa Kimble
Nearly a half-century ago and long before the present group of galleries around town was established, a handsome Armenian and his wife, natives of the Central Valley, introduced fine art to Bakersfield and helped found Cal State Bakersfield’s art gallery. So it was only fitting that the gallery, built in 1980 on the new campus, be named after dealer and gallerist Todd Madigan, who had been so passionate about its formation before his untimely death. One of five children, Todd Bert Madigan was born in Fresno in 1923. He served in World War II in the Air Force and met his future wife, Maris, after he returned home. The couple married in 1948, and moved to Bakersfield to start a new life. Madigan worked as a salesman at Sears. In 1951, the couple opened a nursery, Todd’s of Bakersfield at South Chester Avenue and Wilson Road, a hardware and garden hybrid that proved to be well ahead of its time. What the Madigans didn’t have in stock, they would track down for their customers. Business was so good that after 15 years, they retired. For a couple accustomed to working seven days a week upwards of 14 hours a day, retirement was a shock. Lovers and collectors of art, the Madigans didn’t stay idle for long. They opened Cezanne Gallery downtown in 1967. There were no other galleries in Bakersfield at the time. The name paid homage to French artist Paul Cezanne whose work they admired. They asked Bakersfield College art professor and renowned artist, Clayton Rippey if he would be interested in exhibiting his work. The association began a lifelong friendship with the artist. Madigan, with his gray hair and dashing good looks, was the community’s only gallerist at the time. His death in 1979, at the age of 50, stunned the arts community. Madigan had been actively involved in the creation of an art gallery on the new CSUB campus. “He said, ‘I am so glad I am a part of that,’” his widow Maris recalled. “My whole heart and soul went with him when he died.” She soon assumed her
The Todd Madigan Gallery on CSUB’s campus.
husband’s role and dedicated herself to seeing the gallery’s completion. Maris Madigan and other members of the Dorian Society who helped fund events in the campus’ Doré Theatre raised enough money to complete the gallery in his name. In the 30 years since the doors opened, the Todd Madigan Gallery at CSUB has hosted numerous acclaimed exhibits, including pieces from the famed Armand Hammer Collection in 1987, (featuring a work from the gallery namesake’s favorite painter). Today, Maris still runs Cezanne’s, which still showcases art work and remains one of Bakersfield’s premier gift shops featuring Lladro’s and other collectibles from around the world.
Short Take
CBCC Foundation gala and golf tournament helps kids with cancer The CBCC Foundation will be holding a gala at the home of Drs. Ravi and Naina Patel in Seven Oaks on March 22. Proceeds from this inaugural event will benefit children with cancer in Kern County and the funds will directly support the foundation’s pediatric transportation program. The evening will include gourmet food stations, a wine pairing, live music and an auction. Tickets for the gala are $150 each. Sponsorship opportunities are 16
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Casey Christie
CSUB’s Todd Madigan Gallery
also available. The organization’s pro-am golf tournament will follow the gala on March 23 at Bakersfield Country Club. The gala and golf tournament are chaired by cancer survivors, Mike Stier and Angene Grigg. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the CBCC Foundation at 661-862-7145 or mavila@cbccusa.com. — Michelle Avila, director of CBCC Foundation for Community Wellness
Short Take
Law enforcement poker fundraiser slated March 31 Get your poker face on. And start getting ready to know when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em. This all will come in handy at the Kern County Law Enforcement Foundation’s (KCLEF) Third annual Texas Hold’em Night on March 31, at the CHP “420 Club” on Alfred Harrell Highway in Bakersfield. The tournament will be held at 6 p.m. while dinner starts at 5 p.m. The event gives Kern County residents a chance to meet and play against local law enforcement agents, all the while contributing to a worthwhile cause. Proceeds from the event go toward the purchase of new equipment for local agencies throughout the county. In past years, this has included new guns for Cal State Bakersfield campus police, bulletproof vests, police dogs and training for the dogs. In addition, part of the funds raised will go toward the KCLEF annual scholarship, which is given annually to local high school graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Tickets for the event are $100 for poker players. They will play for $2,500 in prizes.
• Homemaker Services • Personal Care • Employees Screened Bonded and Insured • Dementia Care
For the non-gamblers, tickets are $30, which includes dinner and plenty of opportunities to have fun at the event. All ticket holders will receive a steak dinner catered by Big Mike’s BBQ & Catering Co. and the evening will feature live country music, a series of raffles and a full bar serving beer, liquor and mixed drinks, provided by Randy’s Towing. Sofie Zimmermann, a KCLEF director, said, “It’s a really good way for the community to mingle with the higher-ups of law enforcement.” Tickets can be purchased by calling Zimmermann, 661342-1532. — Michael Wafford
• End of Life Care • Hospital Personal Care Attendant Serving The Community Since 1990
“Recently our mother needed to be hospitalized on several occasions. We were able to call Alternative Care and arrange to have trusted staff stay through the night with her during her hospital stays. We can’t even betgin to share the tremendous source of comfort that was to us.” – Joy R.
(661) 631-2036
2029 21st Street • Bakersfield, CA 93301 bakersfieldlife.com
17
UP FRONT Short Takes
The Third annual Healthy Bakersfield Expo has your well-being and health at heart. A joint partnership with Dignity Health Hospitals — Memorial and Mercy Hospitals (formally known as Catholic Healthcare West) and The Bakersfield Californian, this one-day event is designed to get Bakersfield residents educated on healthy living practices and locally available resources. The free event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. March 11 at the DoubleTree Hotel, and will have a focus on general health care for all ages and demographics. At the event, there will be several activities including: • Health care screenings by Mercy and Memorial Hospitals Community Wellness Program for cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, pulse rate and body fat. (Please fast for two hours prior to blood tests.) • A blood drive with Houchin Blood bank. • Product sampling from various vendors. • Meet and hear keynote speaker Cathy Rigby speak on “Balancing Wellness” at 2 p.m. • Mascot appearances from local teams, including CSUB Roadrunners and Bakersfield Condors. It’s going to be an exciting, informative afternoon full of ideas for the entire family. See you there! — Mira Patel
18
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Cal State Bakersfield’s honor students.
Photo courtesy of CSUB
Healthy Bakersfi eld begins with you
CSUB students find new ways to give back Fifty thousand hours of community service. That’s what Dr. Michael Flachmann, director of the University Honors Program at Cal State Bakersfield, estimates his students have donated to Bakersfield and the Kern County area during the past 25 years. “It’s important for our students to give back to the community,” said the CSUB English professor. “We require all our honors students to donate their time to help others, and they have always embraced the opportunity.” Among the current crop of this year’s freshman honors students, many volunteered at the Bakersfield Homeless Center, where, in the words of freshman biology major Dylan Knight, “We chopped vegetables, sliced bread and washed more dishes than I ever thought possible. The most rewarding part of the job was when I actually got to go out and talk to people. They were so interesting.” Michael Pasquini said that volunteering in the shelter made him “a better person,” while CSUB wrestler Ian Nickell said the work helped him “realize the importance of donating time to the community.” According to Kimberly Reyes, “my work at the homeless shelter gave me a real sense of belonging to Bakersfield.” Other students volunteered elsewhere. Ana Jimenez and Danica Adoc worked at the Southwest Branch of the Kern County Library, while Gabriel Partida volunteered at the senior care facility Glenwood Gardens, where he played cards with the residents, helped clean out closets and set up holiday decorations.
“When I grow older,” he said, “the feeling that someone actually cares about me will be so important. Working at Glenwood Gardens helped me learn how to interact with people many times my age.” Several of the students donated their time to local churches, such as Katrina Grasinger and Sarah Cody, who worked at the Brimhall Road Assembly of God Church. Others used the opportunity to look into possible careers, like Cecilia Vazquez and Celina Franco, two aspiring teachers, who volunteered at Vineland Elementary School and Mira Monte High School, respectively, and Juan Nuno, who prepared for his future profession as a surgeon by working at Delano Regional Medical Center. Annie Thunberg, who taught art in an elementary school classroom and assisted at an art education conference, saw an immediate connection between her future career and her volunteer work. “Both of these experiences helped me develop my career goals. Not only did I make invaluable connections with the art education community, but I learned many skills that I can eventually implement in my own classroom,” she said. “I’m so very proud of all these CSUB honors students,” Flachmann said. “They’re doing exactly what our best students ought to do: Making the community in which we live a better place for everyone.” — Jennifer Burger, CSUB public affairs coordinator
Presented by
Sunday, March 11, 2012 | Noon – 4pm | DoubleTree Hotel
FREE ADMISSION
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Cathy Rigby
will discuss Balancing Wellness at 2 pm
E V E N T D E TA I L S :
• Meet Condors & CSUB RoadRunner mascots • Zumba Fitness with Bakersfield instructors: 12:30pm & 3:30pm • Sample products at vendor booths • Houchin Blood Drive: 12pm–4pm • Healthcare screenings by Mercy and Memorial Hospitals Community Wellness Program: • Cholesterol • Blood Sugar • Blood Pressure • Pulse Rate • Body Fat Please fast for two hours prior to blood tests.
UP FRONT Short Take
‘Gifts Given’ A book of 56 letters and childhood memories of school integration in the South CSUB music professor and director of the Bakersfield Jazz Festival, Doug Davis witnessed history in August 1956, in Clinton, Tenn., when 12 African-American students were the first to walk through the doors of a legally desegregated high school. Davis’ mother was an English teacher at the high school, and his father was a lawyer in the initial court case. His father was also one of three to escort the students through a protest, which later led to the burning of a cross in his family’s front yard. While Davis was just 8 years old when these events occurred, the memories of those days were the inspiration for “Gifts Given,” the story of school integration in the South. His book is available at Russo’s at The Marketplace where he’ll have a book signing at 1 p.m. March 31. The book is also available online at bookstore.iuniverse.com. — Hillary Haenes
Money Matters
It’s tax time! Watch those audit red flags Editor’s note: Chris Thornburgh is a local CPA at Brown Armstrong. Given her expertise, we asked Thornburgh to provide monthly tips that can come in handy for individuals and businesses.
Ever wonder if your income tax return is waving a red flag at the IRS to come audit you? Although there is no sure way to avoid an audit, you should be aware of red flags that could win you an audit “lottery” ticket with the IRS. Here are just a few. High income Odds of an audit go up dramatically as income increases. If your income is more than $200,000, you are four times more likely to be audited. If your income is more than $1 million, you’ve increased your odds to one in eight. Unreported income The IRS receives copies of all 1099s and W-2s and matches their numbers to yours. If you fail to report income, they are sure to let you know. Excessive business meals, travel and entertainment These expenses tend to be abused. It’s a goldmine for the IRS as they know many taxpayers claim more deductions than records can support. 20
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Large charitable contributions If charitable contributions are disproportionate to income, the IRS may suspect embellishment. Documentation of cash and non-cash contributions has tightened, so watch the rules. Business losses If you have W-2 income and also report a loss in your “side” business, you have just increased your audit chances. Be prepared to prove you are in business to make a profit. Keep in mind that just because a deduction may draw the IRS’s attention doesn’t mean it’s incorrect. Don’t let the fear of an audit deter you from claiming a legitimate deduction, so save your receipts and supporting documentation. — Contact Chris Thornburgh with questions at cthornburgh@ bacpas.com or 661-324-4971.
Finding Fame We are proud of our Bakersfield products who have gone out into the world and found fame. Bakersfield Life is excited to publish this new feature where we catch up with people from here who are now famous.
Joni Kempner
Photo by Mark Nessia
From high school drama to model turned TV actress
Early life Even though she wasn’t born in Bakersfield, Joni Kempner was just a young, blue-eyed, blonde-haired girl who moved here when she was in eighth grade. Like a lot of people who work in the oil industry, her father was transferred to work at an oil company in town. Kempner attended Stockdale High School and began pursuing her dream as an actress by participating in the school’s drama course. “I was a really shy kid and acting was my way of getting out of being shy,” said Kempner, who is now an established model and actress. Big city lights The allure of the big city prompted Kempner to move to San Diego where she attended the University of California, San Diego and received a Bachelor of Science in animal physiology and neuroscience. She also studied theater while at UCSD. Kempner currently lives in West Hollywood where she continues to focus on her acting and modeling career. She still finds time to visit friends and relatives in Bakersfield on a regular basis. “I try to come here as often as I can. It’s just got that small town feeling. You always get a welcome attitude from people,” Kempner said. Career She explained that her parents have been supportive even though her career can be very unpredictable. “I have amazing parents. I am so very lucky. I studied medicine in college and I know they would love to have a doctor in the family. I think any parent wants a secure life for their children,” she said. Despite what her parents may have had in mind, Kempner followed her dream and sought out a modeling agency after the suggestion was made while she was working as a waitress in college. A month later, she was recruited and on her way to Milan
where she lived for several months and worked as a runway model. Kempner said she has to stay local for auditions. “I never got to New York because I was more focused on acting.” Television/print modeling Kempner has been in a number of television series including “Deal or No Deal,” “Life,” “Cavemen,” “Love Bites” and more recently, she has been a part of “CSI: Miami” as well as several indie films. “Being an artist, you always want to affect people and inspire them,” said Kempner. As a print model, she has worked with a number of well-known companies like Church, Dickies, Sears, Kohl’s and Victoria’s Secret. Hobbies Apart from her career as an actress and model, Kempner enjoys writing and sports activities like hiking with friends. “I’m trying to teach myself to surf for the second time,” she said. Kempner has written screenplays and is currently working on a children’s book. “I also paint. My mother is an artist, so I learn from her.” Bakersfield The Kern County Fair offers an abundance of live music, games and entertainment for thousands of Bakersfield residents each year in an exciting event that even Kempner doesn’t want to miss. “I love all of the booths and the general atmosphere,” she said. “I try to come back every year.” If she’s not out seeing a concert at a local venue, then you might catch her dining at Mexicali or Frugatti’s. “The thing I like about Bakersfield is that it still feels like home even after being in L.A. You don’t have to deal with traffic and the people are nice.” — Breanna Fields bakersfieldlife.com
21
UP FRONT My Mobile Life
Heidi Wiegel Compiled by Hillary Haenes
Photo by Casey Christie
Heidi Wiegel is the manager at Sugardaddy’s — a women’s boutique that’s been offering the latest fashions and accessories for more than 30 years. Wiegel gave me a tour of her Samsung Galaxy Epic 4G Android smartphone, which she relies on throughout the day.
Picture gallery My granddaughter, Ashley, is only 2, but she takes my phone and we look at the gallery’s pictures. She loves seeing pictures of her Papa and Uncle Christian. I also use my camera to take pictures of merchandise to send to customers who are out of town, so that they can order over the phone.
Facebook To keep updated with my daughter’s page and to see new pictures of my granddaughter.
Chase Mobile I pay my car payment on my phone and transfer money from my account to my husband’s account for his spending.
Google For finding business information and vendors while at work. I have it pulled up within 30 seconds. (That 4G is awesome!)
Favorite photo My granddaughter reminds me of a Kewpie doll and I collect them. She is just so sweet and loving.
The Weather Channel I look at this app every morning to see what I will wear. I plan my wardrobe around the weather.
Sprint ID I change it to the Disney Channel for my granddaughter to listen to music and to watch videos and TV shows like “Good Luck Charlie.”
22
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
iHeartRadio I like listening to KOST 103.5 FM, a soft rock L.A. station and KUZZ 107.9 FM, Bakersfield’s country station, in the morning while I’m getting ready for work. Instead of having my stereo blaring in the house, I plug my phone into my iHome speakers. I love it! Plus, I get to listen to what I want to listen to — that’s the trick.
Text messaging I like to communicate through texting rather than talking, so my husband and I communicate better that way. I would rather say what I need in a text than over the phone.
UP FRONT
Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email: bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com
Happenings: Can’t-miss events in March “Theatre of New Voices,” 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, CSUB, Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10; $8 seniors, CSUB faculty/staff and $5 students w/ ID. 654-3150.
CSUB Guitar Arts Series, featuring Steven Walter and Roger Allen Cope, 7:30 p.m., CSUB, Music Building, Room 127, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $12 general; $8 seniors (60+); $6 students. 654-2511.
WEEK 2
WEEK 1
Thur. 1-4 Fri. 2
Fri. 2
Sat. 3
Sat. 3
First Friday, featuring live music, art openings, specialty shops, galleries and boutiques, artists will set up their artwork, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Arts District. 6349598 or email don@ themetrogalleries. com.
“Spring Into Giving” Fundraiser, hosted by The Kern Chapter of Foundation ThinkAgain, 6 to 10 p.m., Junior League of Bakersfield Community Center, 1928 19th St. $50. Reservations needed by Feb. 25. 322-1671.
Adam Carolla, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $32.50 to $47.50. 322-5200 or vallitix.com.
Sun. 4
Sun. 4
Wed. 7 Sat. 10
18th annual Christian Youth Film Festival, doors open at 6:30 p.m., begins at 7 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $10. christianyouthfilmfestival.org.
The Bakersfield Winds Concert, “A Concert of Chamber Music for Winds,” 4 to 5 p.m., Olive Drive Church, 5500 Olive Drive. $5. 323-7928.
First Wednesday, special events and refreshments, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $4 non-members. 323-7219.
“A Masterwork by Brahms,” Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, 8 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $34 to $50; fulltime students half price. 323-7928 or bakersfieldsymphony. org.
Fri. 16
Sat. 17
Sat. 17
No Stinkin’ Service Charge Blues Series Concert, Guitar Shorty, 6:30 p.m., Doubletree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $25. 831-3100.
2012 Walk for the Arts, 8 a.m. to noon, Central Park at Mill Creek, 21st and R Streets. 324-9000.
Boys & Girls Club Dodgeball Tournament, registration 8:30 a.m., tournament at 9 a.m., Boys & Girls Club, 801 Niles St. $200 per team of six. 325-3730.
WEEK 4
WEEK 3
Mon. 12 Thur. 15 Fri. 16 Peter Frampton Comes Alive! 35 Tour, doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $35 to $80 plus fee. 322-5200 or vallitix.com.
Sixth annual Bunco Night, hosted by Canyon Hills Women’s Ministry, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Christine’s, 4915 Stockdale Highway. $25. 871-1150.
Sun. 18
Thur. 22 Fri. 23
L.A. Philharmonic presents All-Gershwin Concert, featuring Herbie Hancock, 2 p.m., Edwards Cinema, 9000 Ming Ave. 663-3042.
Greg & Steve, children’s concert, 10 a.m. Thursday and Friday, Valley Baptist Church, 4800 Fruitvale Ave. $7 and can be purchased at 861-5200 or kernchildcare.org.
FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “Gainsbourg (Vie heroique),” 7:30 p.m, Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. 428-0354 or flics.org.
Wine Tasting at the Guild House, benefiting the Henrietta Weill Memorial Child Guidance Clinic, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wine, hors d’oeuvres, pasta bar, bread and salad. $75. The Guild House, 18th and F St. 395-7467.
WEEK 5
Thur. 29 Sat. 31
24
Business After Hours Spring Trade Show Mixer, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Marriott Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. $5. 327-4421.
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
2012 Concert Series, with Atlanta Rhythm Section, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $10. 800745-3000 or ticketmaster.com.
Fri. 23 WarmLine’s Fourth annual Dinner & Silent Auction, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., Coconut Joe’s Private Beach Club, 4000 Easton Drive. $40; $400 table of 10. 623-5918 or warmline@earthlink. net.
By the Numbers
Watches at Jane’s Jewelers Compiled by Breanna Fields
10
Approximate number of watch styles they carry with leather bands.
6
Number of watch brands they carry. (Citizen, Victorinox Swiss Army, Rado, Seiko, Belair and J.W. Robbins.)
50
Average number of watches sold each year.
35
Number of watches they currently have in stock.
1,000s
“The advent of cell phones has changed the landscape in time pieces. Watches are used more as fashion statements than just time keepers.”
25
Amount of the most popular watch brand sold last year (Citizen Eco-Drive no battery watch.)
$5,000
Cost of most expensive watch they carry.
$99.88
Cost of least expensive watch they carry.
Source: Robbie Robbins, owner of Jane’s Jewelers
Number of watch batteries sold last year.
1962
opened.
Year Jane’s Jewelers
25
Photos by Alex Horvath
Number of watches they carry with round faces.
IT MANNERS A LOT
Do’s and don’ts of dressing for your age By Lisa Kimble
embarrassing and belongs at the strip club.
ull disclosure: I’m no Rachel Zoe (just ask my stylist-savvy teenage daughters!) But one needn’t be on a first-name basis with fashion designers to know what will work or even worse, what won’t. There isn’t a person on the planet who hasn’t left the house wearing something unflattering at one time or another. As we segue our wardrobes from winter to spring, it is always a good idea to revisit the full-length mirror. Just in time for spring cleaning, make room in your closet for some common sense for embracing fashion’s trends without ending up as a punch line for Joan Rivers and the Fashion Police.
DO aim for a comfort fit, not something so tight that your ability to
F
DO dress for the body you have, not the one you wish was yours.
If you are 40 pounds overweight, there are entire departments you should not even enter when shopping. On the wrong body, those cute Juicy tracksuits will look more like a poorly upholstered piece of furniture than soft velour, which only has so much stretch and give. Muffin tops will never be a good look outside the confines of the kitchen. Crack your dress code by wearing your true size, not the one of your dreams. DON’T forget your age, which is every bit as important as the
number of your dress size. A 20-something trying to dress a little older is one thing. But trying to add 10 years won’t work. Neither will the 50-year-old who is aiming to look like Taylor Swift. As men and women age, less is far more flattering. DO trend to yourself and not the airbrushed celebrity in the magazine. A floral headband looked darling on Sarah Jessica Parker. If your co-workers tilt their head when you walk in the door, ditch the Kentucky Derby headpiece and leave the spring bouquet at home. DON’T go for over-exposure.
Even if you have Gisele Bundchen’s legs, modesty never goes out of style. Sexy can be fun, but spilling out of your top is plain
Lisa Kimble
SIDEWALK SALE SAVE UP TO 75% THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23RD thru SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26TH 26
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
breathe is restricted. Those cute bedazzled T-shirts work well on teens, but are like the sirens of a squad car on their mothers. Just because you may have the body of Jennifer Aniston, doesn’t mean you should skip over No. 2. The same goes for guys. If the pants won’t stay up without a belt and require a hand on the waistband at all times, it’s not a good look. DON’T forget the arms.
At a certain age, appendages like arms are better left covered. Not easy to do in the dog days of a Bakersfield summer, I know. But if your upper arms are wider than your thighs, opt for a thin, cotton blouse instead. DO remember that no-frills is a good thing.
Even Princess Diana was criticized for overworking the frilly blouse. So unless your intention is to go for the retro Paul Revere and the Raiders look, skip it. DON’T ignore the shoes.
It didn’t work for Cinderella’s stepsisters. If it doesn’t fit, acquit. As painful as it is to walk in shoes two sizes too small, it is even more uncomfortable to watch someone trying to do so. Ouch! DO remember that labels matter less than appearance.
Just because the dress is a Michael Kors doesn’t mean it will necessarily look better than a $19 Issac Mizrahi from Target. DON’T be a copycat.
Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but the one-size-fits-all synthetic Barbie doll Charro look is plain silly. And hair color should look natural, not as though you had it done at Baskin-Robbins. Agree, disagree? Send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to read about to itmannersalot@bakersfield.com or visit itmannersalot.blogspot.com.
- Rosemary Abarca Attorney at Law
Specializing in Social Security Disability Law (661) 322-1761 Ming Avenue & Haggin Oaks TheMarketplaceBakersfield.com
901 Tower Way Suite #202 Bakersfield CA 93309
Cancer Care is Close to Home. I lost my 7-year-old son to cancer; my life changed that day. At the SJCH Cancer Center, our patients will receive the same compassionate care that I did. I’m Sandy Johnson, executive director of Mission and Culture. Join me in giving.
Give today. Visit www.sjchgiving.org or call 661-869-6570.
KELLY DAMIAN
Health as it should be?
A
t the intersection of the personal and the communal lies that elusive state of good health. A person’s health is an intensely private affair. Our medical records are guarded by HIPPA. Our social norms allow us to inquire only about the health of the very old or the very pregnant. And for some reason, my husband never answers my innocent questions about his nutrition. (Are you sure you want fries with that? Wouldn’t you rather have fruit for breakfast? Don’t you think that’s a lot of cheese?) However closely we guard our information or choices, the health of one influences us all. Every day we are affected positively or negatively by the health of our children, our parents, our co-workers or our employees. Here in Bakersfield we are rich in community and family, but we are very poor in health. According to County Health Rankings put out by the University of Wisconsin and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, out of 56 California counties, Kern ranks 51 in health outcomes. This study gathers data about a county’s physical environment, clinical care, social factors and health behaviors. Alameda County, where I lived prior to moving to Bakersfield, ranks 21. This thirty point disparity is much more than some dots on a graph; it translates into tangible differences felt in day to day life. When I lived in a healthier county, it took less effort on my part to be healthy, too. I logged miles of walking per week with no intention of getting exercise. I walked simply because it was easier than hassling with traffic, trying to find a parking spot and then digging for quarters in the mysterious dark spaces of my car. There are 20 farmers markets in Alameda County and on the weekends, they pop up in parks and commandeer the middle of streets. The produce aisles of some of the grocery stores boggles the mind with the sheer amount and variety of vegetables and fruits, and the prevailing expectation for food at restaurants is that it will be fresh, it will be interesting and it will be delicious. Pedestrian trails thread like capillaries through the cities. There are paths around lakes, along the ocean, through Redwoods and along streambeds, all about a 15-minute drive from the city center. And of course, I can’t talk about the Bay Area without talking about yoga. There is power yoga, Hatha yoga, hot yoga, pre-natal and post-natal yoga,
fluid yoga, Ashtanga and even isometric monkey yoga. (Is this yoga for monkeys? Taught by monkeys? Makes you feel like a monkey?) This doesn’t mean the Bay Area is the land of (organic) milk and honey. There are some neighborhoods in Oakland where taking an evening constitutional would mean taking your life into your hands, and the focus on food can reach fetish-like proportions. Sometimes a chicken sandwich is just a chicken sandwich, and “locally sourced, organic, free-range, hormone and antibiotic-free poultry” is really just a sanctimonious band-aid to make people feel better about eating the flesh of another creature. In the five years I have lived here, I have found that it is certainly possible to be healthy in Bakersfield, but it takes more planning and effort on my part than when I lived in Oakland. Workouts must be timed around the weather and the air quality. For safety reasons, I restrict my runs to the bike path or a few roads that are pedestrian-friendly. I am a regular at the Brimhall farmers market and I make it a point to resist visiting the two fast-food restaurants that are right around the corner from my house. Even when I don’t feel like going to the gym, I put on those shoes and go, and when running errands, I park in the far back corner of the lot, so I can work in a little extra walking. Personal health is the culmination of hundreds of personal choices every day, but the environment we live in makes those choices easier or more difficult. When 48 percent of all retail food outlets are fast-food, when 14 people died crossing the street in 2011, when our city sprawls languorously over the valley floor, is our town a partner in the health of our citizens, or is it yet another obstacle that we must overcome?
Push your body. Find your beat.
661-589-8950 jazzercise.com • 800-FIT-IS-IT 28
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
FOOD DUDES
Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks A dinner date with a piece of local history
The Food Dudes — from left: Matt Munoz, Gary Frazier, Don Martin and Ray Pruitt — at Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks.
Photos by Greg Nichols
B
ill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks is one of our local “legacy” restaurants. The restaurant opened in 1938 by Bill Lee and remains family-owned today through Lee’s son, Sherman, and grandsons, Brian and Brandon Lee. So what makes this place so special? Plenty. The Food Dudes set out to explore, and they returned with raves and more.
Boot ratings (out of five)
Atmosphere Food
30
Bakersfield Life
Price
Drinks
March 2012
Service
Walking into history Don: You can feel the history of the restaurant and the Lee family when you walk through the doors and come across artifacts from China throughout the restaurant. The Lees have not only been generous to the citizens of Bakersfield, but also to their ancestral village in China, helping build schools and assisting the population to create better living conditions. In addition to the family, their staff has been with them for decades. They make you feel like family. Our server was Van. She’s amazing and has been with the Lees for more than 20 years. Matt: I’ve been enjoying Bill Lee’s Cantonese cuisine for years, beginning with my childhood into my teenage years. Here is where I brought my prom date to dinner before the big dance, and I still come here on special or regular occasions. The special private booth in the main dining room requires a reservation request, but it’s something you should plan for to add a little romance
to your evening (wink-wink). I’m all about first impressions, so when our attentive hosts stepped up to set up our dinner table with plenty of traditional flair, they had me sold. Decorative napkin design, teacup and chopsticks were all placed with care. It’s nice to know these details are still much a part of the Bill Lee’s dining experience. I’m ready to eat! Gary: The Food Dudes and I entered Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks through the cocktail lounge. After my first glance of its interior, I was obsessed. It’s a great step back in time; the entire lounge is draped in mirrors with red neon trim lighting and lots of booth seating. Its centerpiece is a bar island that can be accessed from all sides. It’s at this bar that I ordered the best blended mai tai in Bakersfield. With my tiki mug in hand, I explored the rest of the restaurant and discovered some pretty cool Chinese artwork, including a replica of an ancient terra cotta horse sculpture at the
Pot stickers
Spring egg rolls, barbecue spare ribs and grilled shrimp
Ray: We were treated to an appetizer feast and probably could have made a meal out of the appetizers. We jumped into the fried jumbo shrimp, barbecue spare ribs, paper-wrapped chicken, pot stickers, grilled shrimp and spring egg rolls with gusto. The fried shrimp were covered in a light breading and deep-fried, and the shrimp was amazing. The spare ribs were meaty and had a smoky taste, while the pot stickers were airy and filled with veggies. It was hard to stop eating.
Orange chicken main entrance. The main restaurant is very large and almost every wall is adorned with authentic Chinese woodcarvings. I made my way back to the other Dudes waiting in the lounge, which looks deceivingly large, thanks in part to those mirrors. I promise once you step inside and sip a mai tai-747, you’ll fall in love like I have. The service and vibe are great, and everyone who works there is friendly and fun. Love this place!
Bring on the appetizers Gary: We started off with fried jumbo shrimp and wow! These big shrimp are breaded and perfectly deep-fried but not oily. I added a dash of soy sauce for just a hint of salty sweetness. Seriously, you must try these! We also enjoyed pot stickers, egg rolls, grilled shrimp and barbecue spare ribs. Definitely some great eats for those of you who love classic Chinese food.
Matt: I couldn’t wait to get my hands on these jumbo shrimp. Grilled and lightly buttered, you can eat them minus any dipping sauce. You should have seen the looks on the faces of my fellow Food Dudes. We could have cleaned four full plates. They were that good, but not until we tried the paper-wrapped chicken, the perfect appetizer combo. How they patiently prepare these for cooking is beyond me, but what lies inside had my taste buds reeling. Not to overlook another treat, I snuck a couple extra pot stickers from the plate while the Dudes were being distracted by the Lakers game on the giant big screen TV near us — another of the great amenities in the bar. Make sure you try the sauce side that accompanies the pot stickers.
Dudes had a mai tai to start our evening. My first impression was “wow” and I thought to myself, “What have you been missing all these years?” The mai tai was blended, smooth and served in a cool island-style frozen glass. It went down too easy, so I had two. Don: OK, I admit it … I’ll come clean on this one: I’m a regular in the Bill Lee’s bar and lounge. If you haven’t had a mai tai from Bill Lee’s, then you haven’t had a mai tai. This custom concoction was creContinued on page 32
Mesmerizing mai Tai Ray: Even though I had been to the restaurant for dinner and drinks numerous times, I had never tried the mai tai, which is Bill Lee’s signature cocktail. Brandon Lee greeted us and made sure each of the Food
Mai tai bakersfieldLife.com
31
Continued from page 31
ated in the 1960s after some experimenting and visits to Trader Vic’s in L.A. Served in a ceramic tiki cup, this mai will simply make you want another … and another. I suggest getting it blended and drinking it slow. Real slow. (Make sure you have a designated driver if you’re having more than two.) I really enjoyed watching Ray and Gary experience their first mai from Bill’s. Matt and I are old pros when it comes to this mai tai. I was quite impressed with Gary going all out and getting it 747 style, though when he commented on his second, that it wasn’t as strong as the first, Matt and I just shook our heads and smiled. Make sure you say hi to Ken, the bartender. Incredibly, Ken has been at Bill Lee’s for more than 50 years!
Dinnertime and more shrimp? Yes! Matt: The shrimp fried rice arrived in perfect sequence, much to my delight. Another flavorful and fluffy dish with all the prime ingredients blended together. I added
a little soy sauce and squeezed some extra lemon over the top for that extra kick in my rice. I would definitely order a large to-go container of the rice and douse it with hot sauce. (Trust me on this.) And the shrimp que main dish brought together all the elements of the appetizers into one, complete with special sauces. Served steaming, I laid out another small bed of shrimp fried rice and spread some over the top. Don: I had never had the hot chicken salad before. It’s a great dish for those who
Paper-wrapped chicken and fried jumbo shrimp
Eye candy for the office.
10th Annual
Steelcase ADULT DAY CARE CENTER
GOLF CLASSIC
BAKERSFIELD COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE 4200 Country Club Drive
FRIDAY, MARCH 30, 2012 Shotgun Start at 12:30pm
SEEKING TEAMS & “TEE” SPONSORS FOR 4-PLAYER SCRAMBLE
REGISTRATION FEE: $150.00 INDIVIDUAL PLAYER $550.00 FOURSOME TEAM ALL PROCEEDS STAY IN KERN COUNTY!! “FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES”
The Non-upholstered Move Chair in 12 dazzling colors. FEATURES
• Designed with color options to match any environment; this lightweight stacker can go anywhere. • Conveniently stacks 5-high on the floor. • Durable and tough enough to support up to 300 lbs.
www.floydsos.com 32
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
BBQ Lunch Before and Dinner After Tournament FOR MORE INFORMATION (661) 393-8871 or VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.adakc.org
5300 District Blvd. 661.397.5300 Mon-Fri 9am to 6pm
REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
Sosoo gai might like something a bit lighter than the normal Chinese fare. The lettuce was fresh and crispy, and the chicken was great. The secret dressing they use is tart, yet sweet and perfect for this salad. The shrimp fried rice is a specialty at Bill Lee’s. It’s a great mix of rice and shrimp and I find it makes a nice meal on its own. I often order it to go. Ray: I agree with Don. The sosoo gai (hot chicken salad) was a surprise, as I had never tried it before. The salad was made with shredded lettuce, sliced almond, crispy noodles and strips of fried chicken. The salad dressing was served on the side and is a Bill Lee’s house specialty. Our waitress Van was hesitant to divulge the dressing recipe, but he did tell us it is made with sesame oil, hot mustard and vinegar. It was amazing. I had to have a second plate. The boneless sweet and sour chicken was lightly breaded and covered with a mild sweet sauce. You could actually taste more chicken than sauce, which was a treat because some restaurants overwhelm the chicken with sweet sauce. Gary: Ray is right. The boneless sweet and sour chicken was amazing! Succulent, juicy, plump chicken, lightly fried to perfection smothered in a very tangy and sweet sauce. Words can’t explain; you’ll just have to try it! With a few turns of the revolving table, I enjoyed dish after tasty dish. Hot chicken salad, shrimp que and shrimp fried rice were the other winners at the table. We finished with fortune cookies. Along with my lucky numbers, my fortune read “You are humorous and cheerful with good friends.” It’s remarkable how accurate those cookies can be. Here’s another prediction: Bill Lee’s, I’ll be back!
SIMPLY THE BEST FOR LESS STARTING AT
189
$
INSTALLED Call for a Free Estimate
Any size Single Hung or 2 Lite Single Slider Window Installed* *Sliders up to 6 ft. wide x 6 ft. tall, single hung up to 4 ft. wide x 7 ft. tall. Additional charges may apply for Solarzone Low E windows, depending on State and County Energy Regulations. Ask your local Window World location for more details.
661-871-1520 of Bakersfield
www.windowworldfresno.com Licensed * Bonded * Insured * License #926391 bakersfieldlife.com
33
FOOD AND WINE
Delicious delis Check out these local eating spots when you need a break from the kitchen
By Kelly Damian Photos by Crystal Alvarez
W
hether it’s been a trying day at school or work, there are times when the last thing you want to do at the end of a long day is head to the kitchen to cook. And yet, the family still clamors for three squares a day. (Imagine!) If the frozen entrées from the grocery store are not cutting the mustard and that pizza pie no longer thrills you, then check out these local delis for a meal that is quick and easy, but best of all, requires no scraping of burned cinders from the bottom of a pan. 34
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Lassen’s turkey sandwich, strawberry smoothie and green monster organic juice.
There are lots of tasty items in Moo Creamery’s deli case.
A healthy option Perhaps you made a certain pledge to yourself on Jan. 1. You know the one about losing a few pounds. The soup and salad bar (salads, $7.99 a pound; soup, $2.49 for 8 ounces) at Lassen’s always experiences an uptick of business in January, but don’t overlook the meals in the deli case. The winter beet salad ($7.99 a pound) is a collage of deep, blackish-red beets, bright orange carrots and onion strips turned crimson. It is pleasantly salted with a vinegary tang. Kasha is a grain that is similar to brown rice in taste, but with a firmer texture. The Greek kasha salad ($7.99 a pound) is mixed with feta, artichokes and olives with a result that is both hearty and light. Not ready to plunge into the world of unfamiliar grains? Then you will be comforted by the dill potato salad ($7.99 a pound). Seasoned with ample dill and tiny bits of celery, this vegan dish is both creamy and tangy. The paradoxically named meatless spare ribs ($12.99 a pound) are so similar to beef in texture and flavor, that they are certain to shock die-hard vegetarians. And for those who prefer their meat to be, well, meat, there are grilled chicken breasts ($10.99 a pound) and turkey meatloaf ($9.99 a pound). The seating area at Lassen’s is spacious and clientele-friendly, so feel free to eat in the store or home. • 4308 California Ave., 661-324-1264
Mexico and beyond Of course, you can get tacos ($1.29 to $1.99) at Vallarta Supermarket, but why just eat tacos when you can get albondigas ($4.99 to $5.99) and a torta ($5.99), an entire fried tilapia ($5.99) and pupusas ($2.49). Vallarta — with its bright colors, ebullient music, fresh tortillas and cases of pan dulce — brings a bit of Mexico to us here.
Along with individual plates, the deli offers paquetes, which are meals large enough to feed a group. The picnic meal ($10.99) easily feeds a family of four and comes with a beautifully roasted chicken, rice, beans, fiery green salsa, tortillas and a spicy potato salad. Other paquete options ($9.99 to $22.99) are taco platters, birria (which is a stew), carnitas and carne asada. Large picnic tables stretch the length of the deli and a few large screen TVs provide patrons with footage of that sport that has really caught on in the rest of the world — I think they call it soccer. Here are a few local Vallarta locations that offer deli selection: • 2705 S. H St., 661-397-4490 • 2309 Niles Point, 661-869-1071 • 1515 Panama Lane, 661-241-6430
Comfort food gets comfier Moo Creamery is a pretty family-friendly establishment to begin with, but for those times when the 3-year-old refuses to change out of his pajamas and the teenager is compulsively rolling her eyes, save yourself the aggravation and grab something from Moo’s deli case. The edamame and salmon salad ($4.75/$8.75) is a good choice to keep your diet in check. This green and pink dish has a nice citrus flavor with a sprinkling of black pepper. Brussels sprouts are full of vitamin A, potassium and calcium. The ones from Moo ($4/$7.50) are cut in half and roasted, which means they’re full of flavor. Let’s be honest — with its bacon, boiled eggs, cheddar chunks and mayo, the potato salad ($7.50) is a dietician’s worst nightmare. But if you’re going to go down the calorie road, don’t you want to enjoy the journey? True to its comfort food focus, the deli section offers meatloaf with habanero ketchup ($6.50), pot pie ($7.95) and mac and cheese ($5.25). Continued on page 36 bakersfieldlife.com
35
The beverage lineup at Moo Creamery is impressive. Continued from page 35
You will never live it down if you go to Moo without picking up dessert, so you may as well grab a pint of that ice cream while you’re at it. • 4885 Truxtun Ave., Suite B, 661-861-1130
For your inner cowboy After a long day of ropin’ doggies (or hoofing it through Valley Plaza) you might want a little something that sticks to your ribs. The Prime Cut specializes in hearty, savory food that will greatly please the XY chromosomes of your household.
Deep pit meats (beef: $11.99 a pound, chicken and pork: $9.29 a pound) can be accompanied by smoked corn or smoked potatoes ($1.99 each). The green beans come sprinkled with generous amounts of bacon ($5.99 a pound) and the potato salad ($5.99 a pound) is smooth and cheddary with bits of egg and pickles. Coleslaw ($4.69 a pound) is another option for a side and the cabbage is crispy and fresh, not bogged down with too much dressing. The Prime Cut also sells Pyrenees bread and Voodoo dolls, both of which you will be glad to
have on hand when the need arises. • 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 100, 661-831-1413
A classic For classic deli sandwiches and sides, Country Club Liquors has you covered. It also has the added benefit of an excellent wine and beer selection. The spicy pepper jack cheese melted onto juicy roast beef of the Ortega Jack sandwich ($5.99) begs for a cold beer to wash it down. And there is no shortage of side salads to go along with the
This is your home. IT’S OURS TOO. For almost 60 years, KDG has offered an unrivaled track record, depth of knowledge, and experience unique to the southern San Joaquin Valley. Nobody knows you like a neighbor, and nobody can meet your legal needs and achieve successful, cost-effective results like KDG. With more than 50 highly skilled attorneys, KDG provides advanced legal services for matters ranging from business and commercial litigation to business counseling, entity formation, and corporate and real estate transactions, as well as estate planning and employment law issues.
4550 California Avenue, 2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309 t 661.395.1000 | 5260 N. Palm Avenue, Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93704 t 559.438.4374
36
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Y O U ’ R E A LWA Y S W E L C O M E A T
Gables Residential Care Homes
Country Club Liquors features a selection of classic sandwiches and side dishes. sandwiches. Some, like marinated white beans ($4.99/pint) and pickled tongue ($9.99 a pound), are Bakersfield specialties. There is also a large selection of olives and deviled eggs. Tucked in the back of the store is a wood-paneled wine room with four small tables. It’s cozy, calm and offers a retreat for people who prefer to eat their lunch at a table instead of at a steering wheel. For large groups Country Club Liquors offers deli sandwich platters ($26 to $48) that serves anywhere from eight to 18 people.
The Gables • 903 Spirit Lake
213-3927
The Meadows • 10702 Four Bears Dr.
589-5188
Spruce Gardens • 2400 Spruce St.
327-2132
RCFE No. 155801279
RCFE No. 157204176
• 3737 Columbus St., 661-871-2561
RCFE No. 157204177
When living at home is no longer the best option for your loved one, visit the private homes of Gables Residential Care.
In these elegant, family-style homes, you will find: • Comforts of home in a beautiful surrounding • Caring and competent staff on duty 24 hours a day • Only six residents in each home – companionship with others • Personal assistance with activities of daily living – bathing, dressing, grooming, meals, medication supervision, transportation – whatever is needed. • Delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks • Lovely patios and secure walking paths • Planned activities
8200 Stockdale (Stockdale & Gosford) 834-7467 www.bobbishallmark.com
661.631.2036 bakersfieldlife.com
37
FOODIE
Jose Sanchez Executive chef of the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center
Marriott head chef Jose Sanchez shuttles another tray of rice to the assembly line of workers preparing plates of food for a large event.
By Hillary Haenes
I
n December, he was hired as executive chef at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center and although it’s only been a few months, Jose Sanchez has really enjoyed his time there in the kitchen. Previously, Sanchez, 46, worked as a chef at Stockdale Country Club for six years and before that, he spent six years as a sous chef at Seven Oaks Country Club. His knowledgeable background of food and his passion for cooking were developed at a young age when he would cook with his mom. Even though he spends long hours at the restaurant, he loves to cook at home for his wife, Pilar, and their three children every 38
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photos by Felix Adamo chance he gets. “My brothers are always coming over for dinner. They came over and I made them the new bread pudding we are adding to our banquet menu at the Marriottt — they loved it,” Sanchez said. He may not have spilled his kitchen secrets (he said he doesn’t really have any), but Sanchez did have these words of advice: “If you work hard, you can do anything.”
Cooking You will always find this in my refrigerator: Meat, chicken and lots and lots of vegetables.
Even feeding 450 guests, each plate looks great. My most rewarding meal I prepared for a special occasion: I’ve cooked for a lot of famous people, but Steve Garvey is great! Inspiration for my meals: I used to watch a lot of Betty Crocker as a kid, and I’ve worked with a lot of great chefs in my career who have helped me develop my skill. I always keep reading new things! If I could spend a day with a famous chef, it would be: Emeril Lagasse because he knows so much, and always looks like he’s having a good time. Advice I would ask Emeril: I always am curious what other chefs think are the coolest new things on the market. My splurge at the grocery store: Prime rib and lobster — not very often, but when I get the chance. One ingredient I love to use: Saffron. The color and flavor it adds to food is fantastic. My favorite piece of cooking equipment: The ovens we have at the hotel make it so easy to get everything done. Number of courses I think a meal should have: Five — appetizer, salad, intermission, main course and, always, dessert.
My disaster kitchen: In the middle of a banquet at a previous place I worked, the water pipes broke and we were cooking in a foot of water — not the safest thing, but a great story. Worst kitchen injury: The worst thing I’ve ever done is cut my nail off, but I’ve seen really bad injuries. It’s really important to be safe while cooking. I buy this in bulk: A lot of everything when I go to the store, but mostly beef. I love to cook a great steak. I can never find: Spices. I always go to
Professional cooking utensils, organized and ready for use. the specialty stores for those. I always mess up: Croutons! Bread is so easy to ruin! I rock at making: Seafood! And I love to cook New Orleans style. I make a mean jambalaya. Continued on page 40 bakersfieldlife.com
39
Continued from page 39
Ingredients I avoid/dislike: Curry, rosemary and salt. I like the food to speak for itself.
Eating My favorite local restaurant and my order: I love Tahoe Joe’s and always order a New York steak. My favorite cuisine: Lobster! All seafood ‌ if I could only get my family to agree. Number of cookbooks that I own: A lot! Probably close to 60. My favorite is Bobby Flay right now. His grill-cooking with the vegetables is awesome. My favorite show to watch on the Food Network: Guy Fieri’s, “Guy’s Big Bite.â€? It gives you an idea of what a lot of chefs are doing right now, not just one!
Sanchez adds an extra touch of coconut to the rice.
‡
Kids Cooking Camp
‡
‡
‡
Erase 5 years in 55 minutes for $99!
Spring Break 2012 Kids will learn to improve their eating habits and expand their culinary horizons while having fun in the kitchen Call TODAY to reserve your child’s spot!
April 2nd-5th 2011 9am - 1pm
4809 Stockdale Hwy 661.834.4433 40
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Value $250 Value $250 Value $250 Value $250 Once you try our new trademarked skin rejuvenation process– you will never look at facial treatments the same again. Offered exclusively at ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ . t .JOH "WF 4VJUF
Sanchez keeps things running smoothly in the kitchen at the Marriott.
My most expensive meal: $160. I was at a winery and attending a Winemaker Dinner. It was amazing and they did a great beef; it was moist, tender and so good! How I like my steak: Medium rare — always. Most surprising food I’m not crazy about: Indian food. It always looks so good, but I just can’t get into it. My lasagna is made with: Noodles, sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella and homemade marinara. Before I die, I want to eat: A huge Porterhouse steak.
My favorite comfort food: I eat everything; the cooking is the comfort part for me.
www.LSEnglandDesigns.com
At a fast food drive-through, I order: In-N-Out Burger. It’s the only fast food I eat. My favorite midnight snack: I don’t snack in the middle of the night. If I’m going to eat, I eat a meal. And I’m so tired by the end of my day that I don’t even wake up in the middle of the night anymore. I’m addicted to: Right now I’m eating a lot of salad; even chefs have to be healthy!
General Contractors Designing - Building Creating Your Vision
Over 30 Years Of Experience Lance & Sue England
Locally Owned & Operated
Visit Our Showroom
Mon-Fri 10-4, Sat 10-2 6600 Suite B District Blvd.
(661) 835-8000 Bakersfield 93313 Lic#605344
ENTERTAINMENT
Stars align in March Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson to appear in Bakersfield
By Annie Stephens
W
hen it comes to music, Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson are at the top of their game. Between the two, they have won more than 60 awards and have 20 top 10 singles as testament to their vocal talent. Now both artists are bringing their talents to Bakersfield’s Rabobank Arena. Shelton has become one of country’s favorite vocalists after reaching the No. 1 spot on many country charts. He has recently hit an all-time high on his newly released CD “Red River Blue,” featuring the hits “God Gave Me You,” “Honey Bee” and “Drink on It.” 42
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Blake Shelton Well Lit & Amplified tour
Kelly Clarkson Stronger tour
When: 7:30 p.m. March 13 Where: Rabobank Arena Theater and Convention Center Tickets: $35 to 65
When: 7:30 p.m. March 29 Where: Rabobank Arena Theater and Convention Center Tickets: $30 to 69.50
Clarkson’s new album “Stronger,” has hits like “Mr. Know It All” and “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You),” which has recently reached No. 1 on the iTunes store. The “Stronger” album also has more than 20 new songs by Clarkson. Matt Nathanson will be opening for her in Bakersfield. Nathanson, who is an alternative rock singer and songwriter, first came out with his hit, “Come On Get Higher” in 2007 and later recorded the hit single “Run” in 2011, which features one of country’s favorite groups: Sugarland. Dia Frampton and Justin Moore will be opening for Shelton. Moore is an up-andcoming country artist who has already had a hit “This is NRA Country.” Moore is currently a nominee for ACM’s New Artist of the Year Award. Frampton is originally from
the TV show “The Voice” and debuted her first album, “Red.” Both of these superstars have been vigorously promoting their tours, with Shelton giving away special offers to his events. The country star’s “Well Lit & Amplified” tour will be giving ticket holders the opportunity to get front-row seats on the day of the concert. To win these front-row seats, audience members must tweet to, @BlakeShelton with the saying “#readytoroll” along with their row and seat number on the night of the concert. It doesn’t matter if it’s country, pop or rock ‘n’ roll, because Bakersfield is always ready for music and fun. Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson are bound to be two of Bakersfield’s biggest highlights of the year.
you deserve some
March Gladness Combine Digital Service, Home Phone and Road Runner® Lightning with speeds up to 40 Mbps
for only
115
$
per month for 24 months, plus tax
Includes FREE Wireless Home Networking! Plus let Bright House Networks provide and maintain the affordable High Speed Internet and Phone modem that best fits your needs.
features that make you glad all over t Start Over® lets you restart many programs already in progress and even look back up to three days on many favorites t Exclusive programming like Bakersfield on Demand, Kern Weather Network, KCAL, KCOP and KVPT HD, that you can’t get with satellite or phone companies t Even more viewing options with the Bright House TV app for your iPad® t Unlimited local & long distance calling in the U.S., Puerto Rico & Canada t Easy Gadget App for iPhone® and iPad® lets you manage your Home Phone remotely, and it’s FREE t Keep multiple users online at the same time, download movies and music in a flash, or move to the next level of online gaming instantly t An Internet security suite that could save you hundreds of dollars t FREE access to Bright House Networks WiFi at Hotspots and other locations near you
Call 1-800-734-4615 or 323-4892 or visit brighthouse.com today!
Serviceable areas only. Some restrictions apply. Products and prices subject to change. Start Over is a trademark of Time Warner Cable Inc., used under license. iPhone® and iPad® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Road Runner and related indicia are ™ and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Expires 3/29/2012. (s12)
FOR A CAUSE
Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Dennis Wallace stands in the agency’s ReStore as customers shop for extremely discounted items.
By Gene Garaygordobil
Mission statement: Habitat for Humanity works in a partnership with God and people from all walks of life, to develop communities and hope for those in need by building and renovating houses, so that there are nice homes in decent communities in which every person can experience God’s love and can live and grow into all that God intends.
W
here can one find a new or refurbished home in Kern County for less than the cost of rent? It’s not too good to be true, and it’s not a flyby-night operation. Kern County’s Habitat for Humanity has been working to help people get an affordable home for 20 years. And although some people are unaware of its existence, the nonprofit agency has a database of nearly 2,400 volunteers ready to help new homeowners build their 1,146-square-foot dream home. Three bedrooms and one bath may not sound grand, but for residents who are used to living in overcrowded homes, small apartments 44
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Maria Ahumada-Garaygordobil
Kern’s chapter: Building for two decades
or in a garage, these floor plans offer more than they can imagine. Plus, it’s a place they can call home. Executive Director Dennis Wallace has headed the agency for 14 years, and during that time, has seen 47 homes built locally. “We actually have the largest service area of any Habitat chapter,” Wallace said of Kern County. “It’s actually the size of the state of Massachusetts.” When he first started, he said the agency consisted strictly of all volunteers. That has since changed with the addition of a few staff members. So how does one qualify for a Habitat for Humanity home? Wallace said there are three criteria. Need: Families must have a significant need for improved housing, such as living conditions being overcrowded, unhealthy or in a dangerous neighborhood. Housing costs are more than 50 percent of monthly income. Families living in subsidized housing may also be eligible. Ability to pay: A family’s source of income must be steady and verifiable. No more than 30 percent of your monthly income will go toward the mortgage payment. To be eligible, your family’s annual
gross income must be $16,000 to $33,000. Payments usually work out to about $350 or $450 a month. Willingness to partner: A family must complete at least 500 hours of sweat equity, as well as attend courses on budgeting and homeownership. They must also participate in media events, interviews and in homeowners association. “People must understand that they have to pay for the house,” Wallace said. Habitat provides homeowners with 30-year, no-interest loans, but they must be paid back. Part of Wallace’s job is to find lots to build Habitat houses. “Sometimes we buy from the city, if they are tax-default lots,” he said. “Some are donated, while other times I drive around and see the for sale signs.” Residents have no choice as to what neighborhood or part of town their house will be built, he added. The nonprofit usually has two builds going on simultaneously, and according to Pat Rhoades, Habitat for Humanity volunteer coordinator, each house takes about 18 weeks to build. But that can vary due to the house, the weather or other factors. Homes are built all over the county. Last year, Habitat refurbished seven homes in the Delano area. Donations to the nonprofit come from all over, including home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s. Most items now go to Habitat’s ReStore, 622 Jackson St., which opened in October 2009, and sells new and used materials, furniture and household goods at a big discount.
661.703.8736
182 Quantico Ave., #3, Bakersfield, CA 93306 Lic. #867069
Habitat for Humanity Facts 1976: Year internationally founded. 1991: Year Kern County affiliate was founded. 1992: Year first Kern house was completed. 52: Number of homes built since the Kern office opened. 2: Average number of houses built per year. 18: Number of weeks it takes to build an average house. 2,400: Number of Kern volunteers. Source: Dennis Wallace, executive director
During its first year, the store was able to make enough of a profit for Habitat to buy a repossessed home and refurbish it for a family. To commemorate 20 years in business, Habitat held an awards reception late last year, to honor donors, contributors and volunteers,
Continued on page 46
We now Sell and Install Energy Saving Windows and HVAC units! *Call for details
PROTECTIVE ROOFING SYSTEMS Up to 2,000 sq. ft. of 30 year roofing $4,290 - $5,700. $0.20 per sq. ft. for each additional layer removal
HONESTY • DEPENDABILITY • LIKEABILITY AND SERVICE! Energy Efficient Roofs Solar Powered Attic Vents
Tubular Skylights Blown-In Attic Insulation
CA Lic. #909016
We Build Your Savings! (661) 213-3965 www. BakersfieldsBestSolar.com bakersfieldlife.com
45
Continued from page 45
Wallace said. If you’d like to become a volunteer, you have to be at least 16 years old. Wallace said they get quite a few high schoolers looking for ways to complete community service requirements. No conHow to volunteer struction background or skills are or donate necessary. Items donated are either used for Habitat’s builds As a matter of fact, they prefer or to stock its ReStore it that way. facility, which sells “We’ll teach volunteers to do new and used building materials to the public at it our way,” he said. “It’s not the discount prices. All profastest way, but it is the easiest and ceeds from the Habitat most volunteer-friendly way.” ReStore contribute to the construction of new To prove that point, Wallace Habitat homes. To volunsaid they have the Elf Crew, a teer, contact Pat Rhoades group of retirees who come out at 661-861-8449 or visit habitatbakersfield.org. every Tuesday through Friday. No one from the Elf Crew is a former contractor or construction worker. One is a retired grocer, another was a sheriff’s deputy and another was a college professor. Their job is to fix stuff that other volunteer crews “didn’t get quite right.”
46
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
One Call Takes Care of Your Fix-It-List! A Collection of Exceptional Craftsmen www.myhandymancrew.com
Skilled Screened Employees • Safe, Reliable, Prompt • Licensed CL 660764 Plumbing • Heating • Electrical • Small Repairs • Sheetmetal
Call 587-2739 Soon!
Use the Best ….
to capture your memories!
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF EXPERIENCED, CREATIVE, COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE
• • • • • • • •
Film Developing Specialty Film Developing Scanning 35mm Slides to CD or DVD Enlargements Digital Media to CD or DVD Photo Mounting and Photo Retouching. Camera Broken? We can repair it for you. Henley’s School of Photography Class schedule at henleysphoto.com
Get your pictures out of your phone, camera, and computer. Let Henley’s print them so you can enjoy them!
www.HenleysPhoto.com KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN & INSTALLATION • CABINET REFACING WHOLE HOUSE REMODELS • ROOM ADDITIONS • RETAIL SALES
CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
(661) 324-9484
837-1117
5880 District Blvd., Suite 19
Fully licensed and insured ENHANCING LIVES. IMPROVING HOMES.
DreamMakerBakersfield.com
License #548785
2000 H Street Bakersfield M-F 9-6 • Sat 10-2
Connect with us
bakersfieldlife.com
47
ALL-STAR ATHLETE
Brent Morel By Stephen Lynch
W
hether it was for Centennial High School or Cal Poly, Bakersfield native Brent Morel has always excelled at hitting a baseball. That ability, plus his outstanding defense as a third baseman helped Morel reach the major leagues with the Chicago White Sox in September 2010. The following spring, he went out and won a job in the team’s starting lineup. And if the final month of last season is any indication, Morel could be headed for a break-out year in 2012. During the last 27 games of 2011, he had eight home runs, 15 walks and 19 RBIs. Those numbers have members of the White Sox organization as well as Kern County baseball fans excited to see what Morel will do this season. Already an outstanding defensive player at the hot corner, the 6-foot-2, 220-pounder hopes to become more consistent at the plate. The soon-to-be 25-year-old Morel has proven throughout his playing career to be willing to put in the effort to make that happen. All signs point to a very bright future for Morel.
Brent Morel facts Born April 21, 1987 in Bakersfield. Began playing organized baseball (t-ball) at age 5. Played in the Cal Ripken World Series as a 12-year-old and a 16-year-old. Was a four-year varsity starter for the Centennial baseball team. Also started two years at quarterback for the Golden Hawks until a torn ACL derailed his football career.
For his efforts, he was selected as Cal Poly’s MVP that year. Following three years with the Mustangs, was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the third round of the June 2008 First-Year Player Draft. Baseball America rated him as the “Best Hitter for Average” and “Best Infield Arm” in the White Sox farm system in 2009. Was also named best defensive third baseman of the Carolina League and won the Arizona Fall League’s batting title that same year. Got called up to the major leagues for the first time on Sept. 2, 2010. First major league hit was a homerun. Hit .245 with 10 home runs, 18 doubles and 41 RBIs in 126 games for the White Sox last season. Hobbies: Football, ping pong, pool and archery. Favorite food: His dad’s baby back ribs. Favorite cereal: Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Favorite movies: “Shawshank Redemption,” “The Rock” and “Home Alone.”
As a freshman, he helped Centennial win the 2002 Central Section baseball championship.
Favorite TV show: “Seinfeld.”
Earned numerous honors, some multiple times, while in high school including Southwest Yosemite League Rookie of the Year, Centennial team MVP, All-SWYL and All-Area.
Parents are Rick and Susan Morel; one sister, Shea.
Chose Cal Poly over Arizona, Georgia Tech, UCLA and USC. Named to the All-Big West First Team in
Favorite school subjects: Math and physics.
Is actively involved in League of Dreams, a local nonprofit youth program that provides children with physical and developmental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball and basketball.
White Sox third baseman Brent Morel makes a diving attempt against the Yankees in Chicago.
48
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Nuccio Dinuzzo/Chicago Tribune/MCT/zumapress.com
Rick Osentoski /Cal Sport Media/zumapress.com
2008 after hitting .386 with eight home runs for Cal Poly. Led the conference that year in RBIs (60) and total bases (140).
the
POP
The Pop sets the tone. Making simple, beautiful and purposeful Italian design accessible to everyone. This cultural movement is reshaping America's perspective on size,value and expression.
FIAT OF BAKERSFIELD
611 Oak Street • (661) 843-7888 • Fiatusaofbakersfield.com
ON THE ROAD
Happy people, happy Fiat Fiat 500 starts new trend
Aside from its great looks, the Fiat 500 features seven air bags, child seat anchor system and a tire pressure monitoring system, among other things.
By Olivia Garcia
Photos by Mark Nessia
T
here’s something about driving a Fiat that makes you feel a part of a special trendy class. For a couple of days, I had the opportunity to test-drive the 2012 Fiat 500 Lounge around town, and I couldn’t help but feel happy, cute, fun — and young. Heck, I even wanted to pull up in a busy intersection, jump out and bust out a Jennifer Lopez dance move. Then reality set in, and I realized that I am not as cool of a dancer as she is. Plus, I don’t think my cop husband would have liked me creating a traffic hazard in town. But my girlfriend Denise Ornelas was ready to get a flash mob going. Like I said, this is how the Fiat makes you feel. Fun. Trendy. Happy. And there is nothing wrong with that. We need happiness in our lives. Studies show happier people live longer and enjoy better relationships, and that happiness rubs off on the people around them. 50
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Apparently I am not the only one who recognizes the Fiat fandom. Rick Armijo, sales manager for Fiat of Bakersfield, has been in the auto business for 32 years and said he was impressed by the instant car camaraderie. “I’ve never seen this fraternity,” Armijo said. “It’s trendy. It’s new.” And it will likely catch on, since Fiat of Bakersfield has been selling them like crazy since opening its doors in January at 611 Oak St. (Armijo said they will move to the Auto Mall later this year.) As for the average buyer, the age range may surprise you. Parents buying for teenagers? Yes. Young adults? Of course. People in their 60s, 70s, and 80s — and older? Yep. “We just sold one to a 90-year-young man,” said Andrew Moran, sales and leasing consultant for Fiat of Bakersfield. “Our demographic is literally 16 to 90,” Armijo added.
The accessibility of the Fiat 500 makes it easier to handle air, audio and window controls.
The Blue&Me hands-free communication feature allows drivers to make calls, play music and drive without ever taking their hands off the steering wheel.
And the reasons vary.
Gas saver You can get about 40 MPG. (Believe me, I happily drove all over Btown just to confirm it.) A nurse who commutes from Delano to Bakersfield picked up a Fiat a few weeks ago and never looked back, Moran said.
Compact size You can fit this baby anywhere. How’s that for parallel parking or getting stuck in bottlenecks?
Peace of mind A bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranty for four years or 50,000 miles.
Safety The Fiat may be small but it’s protected. Sales and leasing consultant Jorge Kassas said it comes with seven airbags, including seat-mounted side ones for added thorax, pelvic and knee protection.
Price It ranges from $15,500 to $28,000, depending on the model, including the 500 Pop, 500 Sport and the higher-end 500 Lounge. (I test-drove the 500 Lounge Breast Cancer Awareness version, which meant a portion of sale would benefit this cause. Not bad for a pearl white, pink-striped “Barbie car” — as my teenage son described it.) It also comes with Bose speakers and a feature that can read your text messages on some phones — but that’s my geeky two cents. Another feature I enjoyed was the placement of the music channelchanging and volume buttons. They are right behind the steering wheel, just where your hands typically rest. For the folks who like to listen to music, and I am one of them, this is a nice and safe way of doing it. I could go on about the Fiat’s great features, but I think the best way to learn about the vehicle is to meet one of the trio of experts. Kassas, for example, left a lucrative job in the finance industry to sell Fiats. And what does the college grad have to say about the job change? He is 10 times happier. See what I mean?
You can never go wrong with a Bose speaker system. Turn it up and just feel the vibration.
It’s all in the details: Five best features about the Fiat 500: Media center, Blue&Me Handsfree Communication, great gas mileage, being No. 1 in its class in safety and being trendy/fun to drive.
City and highway mileage and price tag: 36 city and 45 highway.
The Fiat is perfect for: Everyone with up to four passengers as primary or secondary transportation.
What makes the Fiat 500 stand out from others: Trendy, attractive and unique.
Target customer: 16 to 100 years old.
Three words the define the car: Fun, economical and reliable.
What you like most about the Fiat 500: Gas mileage, all the safety features and how comfortable the seats are (the most comfortable seats ever!). Source: Andrew Moran, sales and leasing consultant, Fiat of Bakersfield
bakersfieldlife.com
51
HOMETOWN HERO
Dayna Watson U.S. Navy Age: 28 Assignment: Yeoman petty officer second class. (I take care of administrative duties such as awards, correspondence, legal matters, evaluations and lots more.) Stationed: Navy Munitions Command Continental United States West Division in Seal Beach. Hometown: Bakersfield, but currently living in Huntington Beach, Calif. I have been in the military for: a little
more than four years. Photo courtesy of Dayna Watson
Why I joined: I was in college and unsure
of which career path to take when my dad mentioned that I should join the Navy. I researched the jobs, benefits and pay, then spoke with a recruiter and I was on my way 10 months later. Why I continue to serve: I continue for
the job security and advancement opportunities as well as the educational benefits. The Navy paid for my last few classes for my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, which I received March 2011. Valuable advice I’ve learned in the Navy: Take everything day by day. I have been deployed to: the North Ara-
bian Sea in 2009 and 2010. What I learned while being deployed:
Dewar’s. How I stay connected to family and friends back home: While deployed —
through email. My mom would stay up all night because of the 12-hour time difference to email me. Now through Facebook, texts and visits.
I learned to really enjoy foreign port visits — I biked through Pompeii, toured a French castle, snowboarded in a mall in Dubai and ate lots of shwarmas in Bahrain.
What I like most about my job: I am
What I missed most about Bakersfield while being deployed: my parents, sister
My best military accomplishment or memory so far is: returning from my
and close friends. My favorite activity to do in Bakersfield is: eat! All of the sweets — maple
bars from Smith’s Bakery and sundaes from 52
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
constantly learning and being challenged. I enjoy that I have a customer service type job and deal with people on a daily basis.
second and longest deployment and having my parents on the pier waiting for me. I will always remember running up to my dad and the feeling of pride and accomplishment.
Something I’d like to accomplish this year is: run a half marathon or two. Also, I
would like to apply to be commissioned to become a Naval officer. If I had to choose a different career path, I would have become: possibly a
paralegal. After my time in the Navy, I would like to: buy a home in the mountains and get my
masters. — Know a Kern County resident who has or is currently serving in the military? 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.
S K I N C A R E • M A K E U P • BROW & L A S H B A R TA N N I N G • B OTOX • W E I G H T L O S S Glow Laser and Aesthetics Center | 2525 Eye Street, Suite 110 | 661.323.4569
Single in B
Looking for love? Compiled by Hillary Haenes
Lucky for you we found 15 eligible singles who are ready for romance. If you’re interested in reaching out to any of our singles, please send an email to hhaenes@ bakersfield.com with the message subject line of the name of the single you want to contact and your message will be forwarded to that person. 54
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
From left: Tyson Gimblett, Amber Smith, Toni Martinez and Billy Wright.
Bakersfield
William “Billy” Wright, 29 (Not related to the Toyota owners) Law clerk at The Law Office of Larry L. Wright
Birthplace:
Bakersfield Something quirky about me: I
like to cook — not always healthy — but it usually tastes good. Pet peeves: Dishonesty, laziness
and not taking responsibility for your actions. Favorite sports team: Whoever is playing (and beating) the Yankees, Red Sox, Steelers or Celtics. I enjoy listening to the excuses and whining that these teams’ fans make when they lose and how it ruins their day. Favorite place to shop: Online. No. 1 on my bucket list: Skydive Continued on page 56
bakersfieldlife.com
55
Continued from page 55
or karaoke. I don’t know which one I am more afraid of doing. What makes me laugh: My Siberian husky pup, Kota, except when she attacks my feet at 6 a.m. to wake me up. Most embarrassing moment: I lost a racquetball match with a friend from law school and had to shave a handlebar mustache. I had to keep it for three out of five weeks while I was in Europe for a study abroad program.
Seandey Bowe, 26
United States Marine Corps recruiter
Birthplace: Phillips-
burg, N.J. Hobbies: I love to run to keep my body in shape, play World of Warcraft, draw and read. Favorite movie of all time: “Coming to America” because
when I’m upset or frustrated and I watch that, it always lifts my spirits. No. 1 on my bucket list: Buy a house in
San Diego. What inspires me: Being challenged. Most embarrassing moment: My mom sat down next to me in my ninth-grade algebra 1 class and made me answer all the questions the teacher asked — it was priceless. Hidden talent: My personality — most people get really comfortable around me. Three items I would want on a deserted island: The love of my life, a bottle of
wine and a satellite phone.
Ben Henggeler, 28
Clockwise from top left: Derek Vaughn, Ben Henggeler, Seandey Bowe and Sarah Carson in Brimstone located inside the Padre Hotel.
Firefighter for Bakersfield Fire Department
Birthplace: Oxnard. Dating deal-breaker: Being fake or
cookie-cutter — if you aren’t unique, things become boring in a hurry; smokers. Favorite local res56
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
taurant and my order: Moo Creamery
If I was given $100 to spend on a date, I would: Head to L.A. and try as many
(veggie burger and sweet potato fries with habanero ketchup) or Mama Roomba (tritip).
gourmet taco trucks as possible.
What inspires me: My family.
me Benny.
Most annoying habit: Trying to fit too
Best vacation: Road trips!
much into a day.
My nickname: Most of my friends just call
Brendan Collins, Jolie Brouttier, Rene Lopez and Brittany Freitag at the Padre Hotel’s rooftop bar, Prairie Fire.
Tyson Gimblett, 27
Professional hockey player with Bakersfield Condors
Birthplace: Oshawa,
Canada. Dating deal-breaker: Girls who can’t be
real or who are way too uptight about life. Something quirky about me: I find
almost everything funny for one reason or another and can laugh at anything. I like things from Tennessee. Favorite movie of all time: “Wayne Gretz-
ky: Above and Beyond.” I watched it every day when I was a kid and it was so awesome to see the best hockey player ever play. Favorite local restaurant and my order:
Sequoia Sandwich — I’m still trying out the menu.
No. 1 on my bucket list: To fly in a fighter
Favorite sports team: Green Bay Packers.
jet.
No. 1 on my bucket list: Spend a month in
Most annoying habit: I snore.
the Swiss Alps with my friends snowboarding and just hanging out.
My nickname: G2. I play hockey with my twin and I got here after him. So he is G1 and I’m G2.
Specialty in the kitchen: I am really good
Brendan Collins, 26
Famous historical person I would like to meet: Bill Gates and Steve Jobs. I just
Owner of Hybrid Media Design, a marketing and design company
Birthplace: Los
Angeles Hobbies: Snow-
boarding, road trips, spending time at the beach, extreme sports and listening to music. Something quirky about me: High energy, I love to be ran-
dom and I am a perfectionist.
at baking. I love making cakes!
want to ask them lots of questions about their lives and how their companies went from nothing to what they are today. Ideal romantic dinner: I have never been
into location. It is all about the girl and I having the chance to have a great conversation and getting to know each other. Food or atmosphere can’t replace a great time getting to know each other.
Rene Lopez, 30
U.S. Air Force veteran. Currently volunteers with Civil Air Patrol Squadron 121 in Bakers-
Continued on page 58
bakersfieldlife.com
57
From left: Kristie Elliott, Kimberly Graham and Maribel Martinez.
Continued from page 57 field and is adult leader in the Southern Sierra Council Boy Scouts of America (Rene take many calls, which is the reason for his Bluetooth).
Birthplace: Los
Angeles. Hobbies: Building models, music, computers, reading, watching movies, baseball, hockey and sci-fi shows. Pet peeves: Messy
people and places. Favorite song to dance to: “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life,” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes. No. 1 on my bucket list: Traveling the
world and going to see Ireland and Scotland. What inspires me: Taking care of my
mom, and trying to be a “big brother” and 58
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
mentor to teenagers and children to find a positive direction in their life. My nickname: Willow. The story behind this comes from when I went to Camp Oakhurst, a Christian camp just outside the city of Oakhurst. One of my roommates gave me the nickname because I look like the character from the 1988 movie “Willow.” Ideal romantic dinner: Dinner under the
stars.
Derek Vaughn, 30
Sales at Johnston Farms, co-owner of THEbus, LLC
Birthplace:
Bakersfield. Current Facebook status: “Patiently
waiting in line for Coachella tickets … come on Internet!”
Favorite movie of all time: A tie between
“Almost Famous” and “Field of Dreams.” They focus on following dreams and believing in something bigger than yourself. Favorite place to shop: Melrose Avenue and Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Favorite local restaurant and my order:
KC Steakhouse because it has that oldschool, laid-back vibe. The salmon there is delicious. What makes me laugh: My family and friends. I love that we can find humor in almost anything. If I was given $100 to spend on a date, I would: I would gas up the Bronco, take it
as far as that would get us with no particular place in mind and start the date from there. Ideal romantic dinner: It would have to
be the typical table for two on the beach in Hawaii — my favorite spot.
Maribel Martinez, 31
Brittany Freitag, 23
Vocational nurse at California Department of Corrections in Wasco
Account executive at Clear Channel Radio
Birthplace: Upland,
Birthplace: Delano.
Calif.
Hobbies: My favorite hobby is running, but really I like any type of outdoor activity.
Dating deal-breaker: A guy who isn’t
chivalrous. Favorite song to dance to: “Blow
Kristie Elliott, 34 Supervisor at Fresh & Easy
Birthplace:
Hanford. Dating deal-breaker: He only wants
to talk about himself and is unwilling to try new things.
having fun with my friends, I like to be silly and probably my favorite song to have a good time to is “Baby Got Back.�
No. 1 on my bucket list: To see a Broad-
way play in New York.
Favorite sports team: Football, Chicago
What inspires me: Positive people.
Bears; baseball, L.A. Dodgers.
Specialty in the kitchen: Homemade
No. 1 on my bucket list: To earn a mas-
bacon macaroni and cheese.
ter’s degree.
My nickname: Brandon. The guys in
my office are convinced I’m one of them. Brandon is what my name would be if I was a boy. girlfriends.
it), a blanket (I’m always cold) and a toothbrush (good hygiene is important).
Favorite song to dance to: If I’m
the Whistle� by Too Short.
Best vacation: Puerto Vallarta with my
Three items I would want on a deserted island: My phone (I can’t live without
What inspires me: My boys inspire me. I
am the person I am because of them. If I was given $100 to spend on a date, I would: Use the money to buy groceries
Something quirky about me: I am obsessed with weather. I
actually watch The Weather Channel for fun. Favorite movie of all time: “Walk the
Line.� It’s the greatest love story because it’s real. Favorite song to dance to: I’ll pretty much dance to anything that is playing! Continued on page 60
to make dinner and relax in front of a fire outside.
Reveal
your true shape. ZERONAÂŽ is the only clinically-proven body slimming treatment that removes fat and reduces inches with Âť ZERO Pain Âť ZERO Surgery Âť Ä‚ĹŻĹŻ &Ĺ˝ĆŒ &Z ŽŜĆ?ƾůƚĂĆ&#x;Ĺ˝ĹśÍ˜
Cosmetic Surgery Specials:
ĆŒÄžÄ‚Ć?Ćš ĆľĹ?žĞŜƚĂĆ&#x;ŽŜ - Only $3,199* d͘h͘ ͘ ͘ ĆŒÄžÄ‚Ć?Ćš ĆľĹ?žĞŜƚĂĆ&#x;ŽŜ - $3,999* DĹ?ĹśĹ? ĆŒÄžÄ‚Ć?Ćš >Ĺ?ĹŒ Ͳ $1,699 &ƾůů ĆŒÄžÄ‚Ć?Ćš >Ĺ?ĹŒ - Only $3,199 w/ Saline $6,399 Tummy Tuck - Only $4,499 Smartlipo - Only $3,199 for any 3 areas Mommy Makeover - $7,399* sÄ‚Ĺ?Ĺ?ŜĂů ZĞŊƾǀĞŜĂĆ&#x;ŽŜ - $3,199 Labiaplasty - $3,199
 Â?   Â?    Â? Â?  Â?  Â?Â? Â
Now Featuring: Yon-Ka Paris Skincare
“Results Without Compromise�. Call to book a complimentary skin consultation, photo image, and a `15 minute Yon-Ka Eye Contouring Treatment, and receive a free upgrade when booking a Yon-Ka facial, a $50 retail value. Free Gift with Purchase when booking 1-hour, Yon-Ka Hydrating Facial, at the introductory rate of $60.
Experience the Fountain of Youth‌ Call Today To Schedule Your Appointment!
Best Chiropractor Dr. Berry, an Independent Contractor of AWHC.
J. HELLIWELL M.D., FACOG, FACS
S. KANEEN M.D., FACOG
S. CARR PA-C
MAY BONNIN BSN, RN
LISA FORRY AESTHETICIAN
bakersfieldlife.com
59
Continued from page 59
Specialty in the kitchen: Healthy Califor-
What inspires me: Kids! They’re so
nia cuisine.
straightforward and honest.
Best vacation: Anywhere with great
Most annoying habit: I think I’m always
company.
have been happily married for 35 years, raised three amazing children into successful adults and continue to put others before themselves.
Jolie Brouttier, 23
and peed a little.
right . . . wait, I am always right! Three items I would want on a deserted island: My phone, my pillow and a
Most embarrassing moment: I sneezed
Substitute teacher
Ideal romantic dinner: Good food, good
bottle of Grey Goose.
Birthplace:
Bakersfield.
Kimberly Graham, 35
conversation, a lot of laughing and frozen yogurt to follow.
Current Facebook status: “A little
Amber Smith, 27
Eighth-grade language arts teacher
girl just told me that she likes my Snuggie. This is the last sweater dress I’ll ever wear.”
Birthplace:
Bakersfield. Pet peeves: Nega-
tive people. Favorite movie of all time: “Rudy,” for
its life lesson to never give up. Favorite sports team: Any team that I see
Tractor sales at Berchtold Equipment Co.
Birthplace: Tulsa,
Okla. Current Facebook status: “Flip-
ping back and forth between ‘Goodfellas’ and football. Good Sunday!”
Something quirky about me: I get pleasure out of writing to-do lists filled with items I’ve already done just for the pure joy of crossing it off.
No. 1 on my bucket list: Paris.
That Into You” because Gigi’s life is based on a true story … the life of Jolie.
Hobbies: Reading, running and playing with my Australian shepherd, Bandit.
What inspires me: My 6-year-old daugh-
No. 1 on my bucket list: Well, since I’ve
Something quirky about me: A lot of
Most annoying habit: Watching “The
skydived and bungee jumped, the next thing is to bungee jump off a hot air balloon.
Real Housewives.”
What inspires me: My parents. They
people tell me I have a bit of a Boston accent sometimes. Even though I’ve never been to Boston and don’t know anyone from there.
live.
ter.
Favorite movie of all time: “He’s Just Not
Alterations & Repairs You can rely on New City Cleaners for all your alterations and repairs. Buttons, hooks and eyes are replaced, loose hems are restitched, and seams are repaired at no additional cost. From minor repairs to major alterations, New City’s experienced seamstresses can do it all!
eMatrix
TM
The next generation of skin rejuvenation with little or no downtime.
299
$
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE NOW Call 661-833-4040 Today Dry Cleaning • Laundry • Alterations
60
Gift Certificates Available
Two Locations to Serve You
Southwest Eye Care & Laser
600 Coffee Road 397-8900 1201 24th Street 324-9414
Gregory A. Stainer, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
MEDICAL ASSOCIATES
4649 Planz Road (661) 833-4040 www.cosmeticeyedoc.com
If I was given $100 to spend on a date, I would: Take my date to Vegas, hit the
roulette table and hopefully turn that $100 into $200! My nickname: My dad used to call me Spaz because I am ridiculously clumsy. Best vacation: Spending a week in a beach
house on the outer banks of North Carolina — it was heaven. Three items I would want on a deserted island: Airplane, pilot and a cocktail for
the ride home.
Toni Martinez, 24
Co-owner/operator of Tony’s Pizza and helps her grandfather with his insurance business, Anthony Martinez Farmers Insurance.
Birthplace:
Favorite place to shop: Sephora — I love
makeup! Favorite local restaurant and my order:
Tony’s Pizza! My order would have to be a Toni’s veggie. Most annoying habit: I’m always late! If I was given $100 to spend on a date, I would: Take a drive down to the coast.
The first stop would be Splash Cafe and then spend the rest of the day on the beach. Best vacation: The weeklong vacation I
spent in the happiest place on earth — Disneyland! Health and safety specialist for Chevron
Birthplace: Wichita
Falls, Texas.
Dating deal-breaker: If he isn’t family-
Something quirky about me: I always
Favorite movie of all time: “The Note-
book” because every girl deserves a Noah.
Favorite place to shop: Any place that is
having a sale! Favorite local restaurant and my order:
I am definitely a foodie! I am new to Bako and haven’t experienced all of the restaurants. But I do love to go to Hourglass Kitchen and Bar for happy hour! Anything is good on their menu, especially their baked potato eggrolls! Most annoying habit: I tend to be a bit
OCD.
Sarah Carson, 27
Bakersfield.
oriented.
the Wind.” I am a Southern girl and love the chivalry and social events of that time.
have to make my bed in the morning no matter what.
Specialty in the kitchen: I love to cook
and bake, especially Southern food! My grandma taught me well. Famous historical person I would like to meet: Princess Diana. She had beauty,
poise and grace. She overcame many obstacles in her life and was a great philanthropist. Hidden talent: I’m ambidextrous.
Favorite movie of all time: “Gone With
bakersfieldlife.com
61
Fashion S P R I N G 2 0 1 2
and beauty trends
Much like the arrival of spring, the fashion and beauty trends this season are in full bloom. Bright, vibrant colors are one of the major fads being shown for both men and women, which means it’s time to swap the drab, dark colors for candycolored denim and accessories. According to Los Angeles showroom owner Laurie Hasson, who took time out of her busy schedule to comment on the chic styles this spring, lace is in, in either white or color, especially lacing on shorts, tops and dresses. Also, the “mixing of prints and matching of prints, not just a print top with a solid bottom” is huge. Botanical, bohemian and color-block prints are popular as well as stripes. For men, add touches of color to your wardrobe, even if it is a small pop of color like changing your shoelaces to a hue other than black or brown or sporting a boat shoe with a colored sole. As for the beauty aspect, there are multiple looks for women to fit a range of personalities and styles, from ultra glam to a more low-key, natural appearance. Some of the sought-after beauty trends that hit the spring runways include: statement coral lips; pretty, pastel-lined eyes; a glamorous glow of the roaring ’20s; strong eyebrows with a subtle lip; messy buns; romantic, flowing waves and sleek, slicked back hair. Spring into action this season with these spring-inspired looks and tips from local boutiques and salons. 62
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Tami Calderwood models a fun spring look from Apricot Lane.
Photo by Jessica Frey
By Hillary Haenes
FASHION PROFILE
Bellissima
Photo by Annie Stockman
“It’s all about color this spring. Freshen your wardrobe with the latest white, blue or pink denim from True Religion, Rich & Skinny or 7 For All Mankind. Set them off with a fun top from Juicy Couture or BCBG!” — Rhonda Montgomery, owner Laura Delis is modeling: DL1961 four-way stretch white denim, $158; Splendid tank, $38; Gypsy 05 shawl, $282; Juicy Couture silver handbag, $378; Tom Ford cat-eye sunglasses, $360. 661-334-1712. Facebook search: Bellissima Fashion. Hair by Linda Rion and makeup by Rachelle Maravilla of Serenity Salon & Spa. bakersfieldlife.com
63
FASHION PROFILE
Bella at the Marketplace “Kelly is wearing a lacy bohemian top, paired with colored denim … one of our favorite trends this spring. You’ll see a palette of sorbet hues this season.” — Heidi Nicoll, owner
64
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Jessica Frey
Kelly Geis is wearing: Language vintage lace blouse, $143; Seven for all Mankind slim straight crop jeans, $178; Jeffrey Campbell “Rock” lace wedge, $142; Jules at Bella drop turquoise earrings, $62; A.V. Max initial necklace, $68; A.V. Max bangles, $16. 661-664-4974. Shopatbella.com. Facebook search: Bella at the Marketplace. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
H. Walker’s
Photo by Jessica Frey
“Denim-color washes and vintage looks, is back and strong for men this spring. It’s about occasion dressing; one look for casual, one for evening and one for work; all in comfort.” — Tracy Walker Kiser, owner Connor Huser is wearing: Agave Denim vintage gray wash jeans, $215; Tommy Bahama denim cotton T-shirt, $48; Jack Victor black texture cotton sportcoat, $525; Johnston & Murphy black half boot, $165. 661-283-4500. Hwalkers.com. Facebook search: H. Walker’s Clothing. bakersfieldlife.com
65
FASHION PROFILE
Sugardaddy’s “From wild colors poised for any occasion, to fascinator hats and the best of sassy crystal shoes. Sugardaddy’s clothing is designed to enhance the female form and add comfort to your lifestyle from ages 25 to 65.” — Shari Stacy, owner
66
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Annie Stockman
Heidi Wiegel is wearing: Krista Lee embellished Boho tunic, $123; Cover Charge black leggings, $30; Hippie Chic necklace, $64; Artisan turquoise cuff, $45; Aerosole silver studded boots, $189; Boho Chic fringed purse, $49. 661-325-8300. Sugardaddysclothing. com. Hair and makeup by Christina Venters of Serenity Salon & Spa.
March 2012
Photo by Jessica Frey
Photo by Jessica Frey
FASHION PROFILE
Kaur Boutique
La Dolce Vita
“A great white dress is a must-have staple piece for your closet this spring! Add a few pops of color with spunky shoes or a blazer, and make an easy transition from day to night!” — Navi Sanghera, owner
“La Dolce Vita provides an experienced staff offering the latest trends and techniques in hair, nails and skin. A full-service salon and spa with anti-aging treatment, airbrush makeup, eyelash extensions, Keratin treatment, spray tanning, OPI color gel, Brazillian waxing and couples massages.” — Surinder Sanghera, owner
Talia Culbertson is wearing: Plastic Island classic white dress, $125; Blood Orange blazer, $60; Vince Camuto color-block heels, $129; Delicate Raymond vintage monogram necklace, $189; Brighter Than the Sun ring, $24; earrings, $28; Big Buddha bamboo shoulder bag, $56. 661-664-7800. Facebook search: Kaur Boutique Bakersfield.
Model: Talia Culbertson. 661-861-4900. Ladolcevitabeauty.com. Facebook search: La Dolce Vita Salon & Spa.
bakersfieldlife.com
67
FASHION PROFILE
E Salon|Spa “E is Bakersfield’s only Aveda lifestyle salon and spa exclusively carrying Aveda’s full line of all-natural beauty and wellness products and services.” — Dee Dee Todd, owner
68
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Jessica Frey
Vanessa Paulson’s long and layered hair has a warm, golden brown Aveda base color with honey highlights. Aveda mineral makeup was used to give her a naturally fresh and fun look. Hair color by Caneel Tobias Aguilar and John Nichols. Haircut and makeup by Tawnie Dorsett. 661-6540317. Esalonspas.com. Facebook search: E Aveda Salon and Spa. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
Apricot Lane
Photo by Jessica Frey
“Spring is here and in a bright way! The floral trend continues along with an amped-up version of color-blocking. Not to be left out, is a twist of ’20s elegance in many of the pieces you’ll see this spring!” — Tami Calderwood, owner Tami Calderwood is wearing: dress, $66; earrings, $14; handbag, $64; sunglasses, $13; shoes, $56. 661-665-8774. Facebook search: Apricot Lane Boutique Bakersfield. Hair by Toni Brewer and makeup by Jennifer Escobedo of Serenity Salon & Spa. bakersfieldlife.com
69
FASHION PROFILE
Emporium Western “Classic western wear never goes out of style. The look can be customized with different seasonal colors and accessories, but the fashion is timeless.” — Stephen Goldwater, president
70
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Annie Stockman
Fred Mungia is wearing: Stetson Hat Company rancher felt cowboy hat, $195; Wrangler “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” cowboy shirt (A portion of the proceeds from each shirt sold goes to breast cancer research), $45; Wyoming Traders wild rag worn around the neck, $18; Miller International cinch brand blue denim jeans, $45; Colorado Horsehair handmade hitched genuine horsehair belt, $325; Montana Silversmiths western trophy buckle, $150; Sabona magnetic wristband bracelet, $55; Justin Boot Company full quill ostrich boots, $399.99. 661-325-8476. Emporiumwesternstore. com. Facebook search: Emporium Western Store. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
Pappagallo
Photo by Annie Stockman
“For Pappagallo, Bridget Short of Paper Moon is making a strong statement in a Joseph Ribkoff bling zippered pewter bubble dress complimented by black, strappy sandals and pewter purse from Brighton. A matching bracelet and earrings all sparkling from Brighton, ‘wrap her package.’” — Nancy Jennings, owner Bridget Short is wearing: Joseph Ribkoff bubble dress, $236; Brighton sandals, $200; Brighton purse, $135; Brighton bracelet, $62; Brighton watch, $135; Brighton earrings, $34. 661-8329054. Facebook search: Pappagallo Bakersfield. Hair by Nancy Reneau and makeup by Jaspreet Jammu of Serenity Salon & Spa.
bakersfieldlife.com
71
FASHION PROFILE
Bikersfi eld Boutique “Bikersfield has everything from bling jeans and shirts to bling purses and jewelry. Every $50 you spend, you get a $5 poker chip off your next purchase.” — Kelly Woodhouse, owner
72
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Annie Stockman
Kelly Woodhouse is wearing: Vella lacy longsleeved shirt, $19.99; Vocal short-sleeved shirt, $33.99; LA Idol jeans, $50. 661-3219882. Facebook search: Kelly-Bikersfield. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
Simply Me Baby Me
Photo by Annie Stockman
“The surf and skate style continues to be the trend for boys this year, incorporating quality and comfort while featuring bright, bold colors and patterns.” — Crystal Aronson, owner Ethan Aronson is wearing: Volcom shortsleeved shirt, $18; Hurley long-sleeved shirt, $28; O’Neill pants, $36; Neon Eater shoes, $30. Babymebeautifulboutique.com. 661-5882775. bakersfieldlife.com
73
FASHION PROFILE
Fashionista Boutique at the Fox “The Fit and Flare is a flattering style for all body types. These jeans can be worn whimsical with a flowy blouse or styled with a classic, nautical striped top and spring must-haves: a denim shirt or cardigan.” — Amy Davis, co-owner
74
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Jessica Frey
Jennifer Holloway is wearing: Black Beauty Fit and Flare, $158; New Romantics Free People blouse in ballet pink, $128; Rhodium 18k gold bangles, $158 (set of ten); La Mer large gold watch, $98. 661-3274466. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
Jezabelle’s
Photo by Jessica Frey
“Jezabelle’s satisfies the needs of sophisticated shoppers seeking classic, stylish designs. The boutique features unique collections of clothing, handbags, jewelry and accessories for men and women.” — Christine Hennings, owner Britney Johnson is wearing: Akiko top, $152; Diesel skinny jeans, $140; Hammitt leather purse, $575; Charlene K gold teardrop earrings, $66; Charlene K hammered gold bracelet, $75; Cowboysbelt, $89. 661-6312217. Facebook search: Jezabelle’s Men and Women’s Boutique. bakersfieldlife.com
75
FASHION PROFILE
Essentiels Spa et Beauté “Essentiels Spa et Beauté is a full-service salon, day spa and beauty boutique offering a true European spa experience in an urban chic setting,” — Dee Dee Todd, owner
76
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Jessica Frey
Laura Delis’ ombre hair color with a warm chocolate base and honey blonde ends creates a subtle sun-kissed appearance that looks sexy and effortless. Bumble styling aids and Laura Mercier’s Flawless Face makeup help finish the look. Hair by Lisa Verdugo and makeup by Frank Anthony. 661-6540321. Edayspas.com. Facebook search: Essentiels Spa et Beauté. March 2012
FASHION PROFILE
LUSH
Photo by Jessica Frey
“This season is all about taking risks with your look. There has never been a better time to just go for it. Candy-colored fashion from head to toe or just an accessory is for every modern woman.” — Laura Ganzinotti, owner Katie Nelson is wearing: BCBG sequin lemongrass top, $278; BCBG color-block dress, $298; BCBG Max Azria lemongrass ostrich bag, $148; Promise shoes, $84. 661-588-4500. Shopatlush.com. Facebook search: LUSH Home & Boutique. bakersfieldlife.com
77
FASHION PROFILE
Divaz Desirez “At Divaz Desirez, trendy doesn’t only mean the latest style — it means style and comfort that not only looks good, but feels good.” — Roseanne Nette, co-owner.”
78
Bakersfield Life
Photo by Annie Stockman
Christie Ludwick is wearing: Zenana scoop neck, dolman sleeve, cold shoulder top, $16; Merclesuit miraclebody straight leg jeans, $90; Qupid black velvet pumps, $30; Multiple layer necklace, $15. 661679-7278. Divazdesirez. com. Facebook search: Divaz Desirez. Hair by Cory Hazdovac of Serenity Salon & Spa. March 2012
PASTIMES
A wee bit of Ireland Q&A with Kenny Mount, Founder of the Irish Heritage Club of Bakersfield
Timothy Ryan glances toward Kenny Mount during a set at the Irish Heritage Club.
Compiled by Kevin McCloskey
Photos by Felix Adamo
I
f you have ever felt the pull of Mother Ireland, a need for the lively sounds of fiddle, pipes and bodhran, or the desire for a pint of something smooth and dark, Bakersfield has just the place for you. The Irish Heritage Club of Bakersfield, 3117 Chester Lane, is the brainchild of Kenny Mount and Robbie Byrne. Part owner of the Mission Family Mortuary, Mount is also a former board member for the Kern County Scottish Society. His lineage, however, is Irish, and the creation of the Irish Heritage Club was a natural and ambitious progression. Recently, Bakersfield Life sat down with Mount to learn more about the Irish Heritage Club.
Booth at Scottish Games gave rise to club
The club was born in 2011, and the first membership drive was from a booth at the April Scottish Games. Selling memberships and T-shirts brought a surprising number of interested Kern County residents, and helped to confirm that the creation of the club was a good idea. We rented the space on Chester Lane in July, and the club has really taken off from there. The 80
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Kenny Mount with his bodhran. Mount is the founder of the Irish Heritage Club.
The Irish Heritage Club has an Irish pub feel to it.
club’s mission is to celebrate the Irish culture through music, food, dance, travel, history and gathering. Step into the club and be transported to Ireland
The club is modeled after Durty Nelly’s pub in Bunratty, Ireland. When I go to Ireland for a visit, the first thing I do is have a cigarette in front of the Bunratty Castle and then, straight to the pub. The clubhouse in Bakersfield is ever-growing, but when it’s finished, it will look like the upstairs room at Durty Nelly’s. It’s an attempt to bring a little slice of Ireland to Bakersfield. The clubhouse has recently been christened “An Cruisin Lan” (The Little Jug), after another pub down in Cork where Kenny played while traveling with his band, The Filthies. No secret initiations to join
Club membership is open to anyone with an interest in Irish culture, regardless of their heritage. Members are issued a card and have access to the clubhouse and all events. The events include the open music sessions on Mondays, movie and social nights, and the occasional Fry Up or traditional Irish breakfast. A service element is also on the horizon with the first charity event for St. Vincent De Paul’s coming this spring. St. Patrick’s Day festivities
The clubhouse will be open throughout the day, but with the possibility of a combined event with the downtown businesses in Wall Street Alley. Updates will be posted on the website as they are confirmed. Mark your calendars
Full Irish Fry Ups are scheduled for April, as well as movie
The Irish Heritage Club Address: 3117 Chester Lane Website: bakersfieldirish.yolasite.com Facebook: facebook.com/irishheritageclubbakersfield
night. Mondays are reserved for the open sessions where everyone is invited to come down with their instruments, if they play or for a listen if they do not. Irish Step Dancing classes are also being formed for those members looking for a fun, aerobic workout. On the lookout for new members
Since the club was founded, membership has grown slowly and steadily, mostly through word of mouth. Another booth is planned for this year’s Scottish Games in April, and the next edition of The Irish Heritage will be out in March. The Irish Heritage is the club’s quarterly newspaper filled with information of club activities past and future as well as stories and articles on Ireland and Irish culture. Eye on the future
Expansion of the club will be necessary as membership continues to grow; the dream is to move the club to a plot of land just south of Bakersfield, complete with a cultural center, Folk Park (similar to the one in Bunratty), amphitheater and a hostel for travelers passing through our southern valley. Kern County is home to many fantastic cultural organizations, and the Irish Heritage Club has the potential to join those ranks in time. Seeing the progress already made in just under a year is extremely encouraging, and it says a great deal about the need for this club. Its time has certainly come. bakersfieldlife.com
81
WHY I LIVE HERE
Alycia Pang
Photo by Felix Adamo
Esthetician/makeup artist at La Dolce Vita
Compiled by Vicki Adame Age: 23 Hitting No. 10: I have lived in Bakersfield for about nine years and counting. I wasn’t born in Bakersfield, but I ended up here because: The school system here was better than my last residence. It offered more opportunities. I actually did leave here for a few months, but came back for love! I have lived in: Rosedale, 12 for life! Three words that describe my neighborhood: Friendly, young and cute. Favorite Saturday activity: I actually work on Saturday, so Sunday is my official day off. I love to sleep 82
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
in because all week I am working and going to school and I lose some much needed rest. Favorite community event: The fair! I absolutely love the fair because I love to eat! The mass amount of junk drives me crazy! Basque lovin’: Wool Growers is my absolute favorite place in town! They serve what seems like a buffet to your table as well as your entrée, and every bit of that food is delicious, except pickled tongue. I don’t get down like that. Best way to relax: Laying in the bath, drinking a beer and listening to a book — best combo ever! How to keep cool during the summer: Going to Rosemary’s and eating all the yummy black and tans I can consume in one sitting!
Best-kept secret in Bakersfield: La Dolce Vita Salon … duh! My favorite getaway: San Jose, it is where I am from and I love it there so much. My favorite funny Bakersfield story: Going “extreme beetle bugging” with my girls from high school! Haha. They know what I’m talking about. Bakersfield often gets negatively ranked on lists, the positive list I think we should rank near the top on is: Bakersfield would rank at the top of the list for being hard working because mostly everyone residing here came for their jobs. Also, a lot of people in Bakersfield work outdoors and work a lot of hours, it makes you kind of proud.
“Integrity isn’t Expensive, It’s Priceless”
Rhonda Lewis
Richard Rivera
Cathie Paulovitz
Kathy Keener
Marvin Bush
Stacy Harrison
Eva Martinez
Sonia Sides
Lezlie Chaffin
Jackie Putman
Ronda Chaffin
Louie Gregorio
Sang Dang
Kym Plivelich
Beth Shanley
Rachael Newell
Karen Vanderhurst
Dottie Patterson
Wade Aldean
Rhonda Anderson
Bob Levesque
Jeanie Gray
Diana Aronson
Judy Smith
Amy Short
Ann Olcott
John Machado
Joyce Hanson
Gayle Hafenstein
Leann Newfield
Adoree Roberson Owner/Manager
Joe Roberson Owner/Broker
“We’re Not National, We’re Your Neighbors” Not a franchise company
3977 Coffee Road, Ste. C (Behind Chicago Title)
661.588.6600
www.gopremierrealty.com
Lori Malkin chats with some of the participants of the 2010 Donate Life JJ’s Legacy Golf Tournament at Seven Oaks Country Club.
Team effort Volunteers keep JJ’s Legacy going strong By Gene Garaygordobil
A
lthough March will mark its third anniversary, one nonprofit has not only raised a lot of money in such a short time, but it has also educated hundreds of locals about the importance of organ donations. Lori Malkin, the mover and shaker behind JJ’s Legacy, credits her “amazing group of volunteers” in raising nearly $200,000 during the last two JJ’s Legacy golf tournaments and dinners. This year’s event is set for March 4 and 5 at Seven Oaks Country Club. And while all of the golf teams are already sold-out for the tournament, there are still sponsorship opportunities available. “We have a wonderful, amazing group of family members and friends who make all of this possible,” said Malkin. “It’s very heartfelt to see 400 people at the dinner and 52 golf teams for the tournament.” Malkin and her family wanted to honor the great memories of her son, Jeffery Johns, or “JJ,” as he was known to those close to him. JJ passed away March 1, 2009, in the trauma center at Kern Medical Center from injuries suffered in a tragic accident a few 84
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Casey Christie
COMMUNITY
hours earlier. He was surrounded by family and friends who had come to say their final goodbyes. JJ was outgoing, and had a fun-loving personality that drew others to him, Malkin said. He played golf, snowboarded and loved hanging out with friends. When the family was asked about donating JJ’s organs and tissues, they had never talked about it, but they knew it was something JJ would have done himself, because he was such a giving person. That decision gave renewed life to five recipients, Malkin said. About 58 people received tissues and corneas — all touched by JJ. His older brother, Drew thought it would be nice to have a golf tournament because he liked the sport, so the family decided to add a dinner the following evening. The family worked with One Legacy, a donate life organization, to help get their message out. The following year, JJ’s Legacy was born, inspiring Malkin to educate Kern County residents about the power each has to donate life. JJ’s Legacy dinner, auction and golf tournament, held on the first consecutive Sunday and Monday in March, parallels the national Donate Life organization’s mission to educate, involve, inspire and enroll. Event proceeds from the silent and oral auctions, the volunteerrun golf tournament and awards ceremony are utilized to create community awareness for organ and tissue donations as well as to support donor recipient families. Money raised has gone to create a public service announcement to educate local residents about the importance of signing up on the
California State Donor Registry. Through partnering with the Donate Life Ambassadors program, the group has been able to facilitate presentations at local high schools, Rotary Clubs and an information booth at the Bakersfield Business Women’s Conference among countless health fairs. Moving forward, the foundation’s board plans to participate in a media campaign to inspire Kern County residents to become organ donors and plans to create grief support groups for donor families and recipients alike. Donate Life is one of few causes that touches everyone in our community — to make the choice to become an organ donor and potentially save a life. “We have 25 people on the event committee alone,” Malkin said. “Another 10 on the golf committee. We get a huge outpouring of support from the Bakersfield community. It is a very giving community.” That’s reflected in the $85,000 raised in 2010, followed by $100,000 in 2011. She can only hope to match that again this year. All that money stays in Kern County to help bring education and awareness to donating Still, Malkin points to all the support she has because of her volunteer group, which includes close family and friends from her high school days. Her husband, Bob Malkin, was her true inspiration to start the foundation from nothing, and her son, Drew, is also very active. “These people all work full-time, have family and their own lives,” she said. “But they still come out, give their valuable time and
help put on a great event for a great cause — organ donation.” Volunteer and longtime friend from high school, Greg Hash, runs things for the golf tournament. Her other high school classmate, Cindy White, is secretary of the organization, and “has been there since day one.” “They are both like family,” she said. “They — and scores of other volunteers — are the ones that make this event happen every year,” Malkin said. For more information on how to become a sponsor or to make a donation, visit jjslegacy.com.
5300 Lennox Avenue, Suite 103, Bakersfield, Ca 93309 661.325.6939
Become a Foster Parent
to provide a safe and stable home environment.
Monthly stipend $717-$2850
Your hearing is our #1 priority
at Wallʼs.
At Wallʼs Hearing Aid Center, weʼre committed to our customers and dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction. Come to us and youʼll get the personal attention, superior service and advanced, customized solutions you need to keep you hearing your best. Just like all our customers have, since 1946.
Kenneth V. Wall
Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences
The Original Hearing Aid Center of Bakersfield
4800 Easton Drive, Suite 108 Bakersfield, CA 93309
661-323-1612
© 2011 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 6/11 03238-11_S9351
bakersfieldlife.com
85
LADIES WHO…
Are skin care experts Compiled by Hillary Haenes Photos by Jessica Frey
Q
How long have you been in the beauty/ health industry?
Ronda Crist (Esthetician trainer at EuroPhoria Medical & Personal Spa): Since 1999. Cotton: A friend’s diagnosis of breast cancer seven years ago caused me to reflect on my own life and what I wanted for my family. I began esthetics school and my skin care journey on Nov. 1, 2005. Exactly one year later, I opened Evolution Esthetics Skin Care Spa. In June 2009, I relocated my business to its current downtown location in the historic Sam Woo Laundry Building. My studio has brought me back to my original focus — my children, my clients and my ev9 Natural Skincare line. Watt: Two years. Ryan: For more than 25 years, yet, being one who grew up with major skin challenges, I have been passionate about skin for as long as I remember.
Q
What simple skin regimen have you done for years?
Crist: A facial on a regular basis and also a home regimen that consists of cleansers, tonics and serum moisturizers. Cotton: My daily skin care consists of cleansing, toning and moisturizing my skin prior to makeup application in the morning. In the evening, I cleanse and replace the moisturizer with an anti-aging cocktail, which combines a serum and vitamin C (you should always use repair and specialty products at night because this is when the skin repairs itself). Twice a week I use an appropriate mask or specialty exfoliant. 86
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Rebecca Cotton
43, Owner and esthetician of Evolution Esthetics Skin Care Studio and creator of ev9 Natural Skincare Products
Watt: I have always done a daily four-step skin care routine: cleansing, exfoliating, toner and moisturize with a sunscreen. I also always apply C Vital eye cream to keep my under eyes hydrated and it keeps you looking young.
Ryan: Cleanse, tone, treat, hydrate and, most importantly always wear my sunscreen. I also exfoliate and mask regularly. It is important to keep your skin surface in a constant state of renewal. Remember, your skin is an organ and taking the best possible care of it is imperative.
back to the proper pH balance.
Cotton: There is a very prominent myth I see and hear every day while working in my skin care business: For skin care products or treatments to be effective, they must hurt or cause redness and irritation. Skin care products and treatment should not cause trauma or hurt the skin to be effective. Look at an example of a certain apricot scrub product that people commonly use. The ground apricot pits used in this product are so large they can actually tear the skin with repeated use. I also perform chemical peels on a regular basis. Many clients are hesitant before these procedures because they believe if it is going to be effective, it must mean it will be painful. The truth is skin care technology and ingredients have progressed tremendously over the years. This allows for excellent results with less trauma, redness and downtime for the client. Watt: Putting toothpaste on your blemish. I hear it all the time, but if you believe that, you are putting your skin at risk. The ingredient in toothpaste is not healthy for the skin. Ryan: Most people think that sunscreen is only needed if they are spending time in the sun. It is a must to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (rain or shine), to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.
Stacy Ryan
50, Esthetician and owner/operator of Derma Technical Clinic
Q
Tell us the most common myth regarding skin care:
Crist: The belief that squeezing or popping pimples will make them disappear
Ricci Watt
23, Esthetician/skincare therapist at Skinsation Medical Aesthetics
faster is a myth. Skin care experts’ studies reveal the opposite. Squeezing pimples can lead to pimples taking longer to heal and could even lead to inflammation, infection and permanent scaring. You should always go to a skin care expert to properly cleanse, exfoliate, extract and then bring your skin
Q
What advice should readers follow to have healthy skin?
Crist: Regular facials and a home care regimen that meets your needs. Cotton: I view skin care like going to the gym. For best results, you must be consistent. Find a skin care routine that works with your schedule, lifestyle and budget and do it on a regular basis. Personally, I always wear sunscreen, big glasses (to protect my eye area) and a smile, because happiness cannot be created with makeup, only enhanced with makeup! Watt: Always do your four-step skin care regimen, eat healthy, exercise daily (it will improve blood circulation and open up skin pores for oxygen intake and it helps in Continued on page 88 bakersfieldLife.com
87
Ronda Crist
Ricci Watt
Continued from page 87
clearing extra toxins from the body.) And most important, see your skin therapist once a month.
Ryan: Eat as healthily as possible and drink lots of water. Always wear sunscreen! Also, be sure to receive regular skin treatments with a qualified skin specialist, monthly.
Q
Why is it so important for people to make regular appointments with their dermatologist and esthetician?
Crist: Skin is the largest living organ on our body. It’s a protective shield from everything we come into contact with on a daily basis. So we should always care for it as it cares for us. Seeing a skin care professional is also your first early warning for conditions that may need further attention. Preventative care is the key to great skin. Cotton: I believe it is very important for people to see their esthetician and dermatologist for several reasons. As an esthetician, I am not medically trained. I use this definition for my clients: As an esthetician, I am trained to look at your lifestyle and outside factors to create and design a plan to benefit your skin and its overall health. If you have an immediate concern, I recommend a visit to your dermatologist to rule out any medical issues and regular visits to document and observe changes in your skin. Regular visits to an esthetician can aid in the health of your skin and document changes, which may need to be further addressed by a dermatologist. Also, many of my clients live alone or don’t have medical insurance and come to me on a regular basis for prevention and simple observation of their skin and its overall health. Watt: It is very important to see your esthetician once a month because we can be very personal with you and your skin. We see what others can’t and can get you on the right skin care regimen and give you the treatments you need. Skin is very important and people don’t understand until they see a skin care therapist. I love 88
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Stacy Ryan
what I do. I love helping people see beautiful skin that they haven’t seen before!
Ryan: Your dermatologist will screen you for possible serious skin conditions and diseases. Prevention and early detection are the keys to conquering any hurdles you might encounter. Regular skin treatments with your esthetician will keep your skin healthy, glowing and looking beautiful! And most importantly, your esthetician can make sure you are using the appropriate products for your skin type and can recommend treatment plans tailored to your needs. Nobody will be more familiar with your skin and its needs than your esthetician.
Q
What are the best foods to eat for healthy skin?
Crist: Avocados contain Niacin (vitamin B), which helps anti-inflammatory irritated skin and red blotchy skin. One avocado has 3.8 mg of niacin, which is 27 percent of your daily need. Mangos contain vitamin A that helps fight free radicals that can prematurely age the skin. Almonds contain vitamin E and are rich in oils. Fish contains omega-3. Drink plenty of water and exercise daily to flush out toxins.
Cotton: Your skin is the largest organ in your body. Anything going on internally is reflected externally. I would recommend water for good skin hydration, foods high in vitamins and antioxidants such as fruits, vegetables and natural grains and nuts. I remind my clients that antioxidants are the only substance that works to repair damaged cells internally or externally. That is why they are listed on almost everything you see and are so important to your diet. Obviously, too much caffeine, junk food or fast foods are not healthy for your skin. Watt: Vegetables — they are wonderful. Green equals beautiful skin and remember, nothing is beautiful about dairy. Ryan: Salmon is a great source for beautiful skin because it is rich
Rebecca Cotton in omega-3 fatty acids, which inhibit toxin absorption and help keep your body better hydrated. Brazil nuts, crab and tuna are all great sources of selenium, which is known to be able to reduce sun damage as well as help with elasticity. Dark leafy greens and foods high in vitamin C are also great for you and your skin. And, of course, drinking lots and lots of water helps flush out any toxins in your body and keeps the skin radiant looking.
www.bakersfieldrvresort.com 5025 Wible Road Bakersfield, CA 93313
661-833-9998
bakersfieldlife.com
89
HISTORY
Andrew Brown’s store in 1887.
Early stores and schooling Meeting the needs of a growing county By Jeff Nickell Photos courtesy of Kern County Museum
A
s westward migration found its way to what we now know as Kern County, many businesses and organizations took shape to make our towns livable for the new residents. Of course, the first people to inhabit this area were the Yokuts Indians, followed by explorers and trappers (Thomas Fitzpatrick, Elisha Stephens, Father Garces and Edward Kern just to name a few). The Yokuts lived off the land and traded with other tribes. These trades really were the first “stores” of Kern County. In addition, the first education was the Yokuts handing down skills necessary to live for thousands of years. You really do not hear that as education, but it was, and I thought I would mention it since education in the present is moving toward logical and critical thinking with increased interaction taking place between teachers and students. The state of California has adopted Common Core Standards that nearly every state in the Union has also adopted to insure students throughout the United States are taught the same standards. In this article, I will touch on the first stores and schools in Kern County induced by exploration, the Gold Rush, and farming, which made Havilah the county seat when Kern County was first formed in 1866. Andrew Brown started stores in Weldon and Kernville and these supplied much of the goods to folks in the Kern River Valley. An interesting point brought to light in Camille Gavin and Kathy
90
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Leverett’s book, “Kern Movers and Shakers” is Brown’s store was not your typical store. Many of his customers had accounts they would settle maybe once or twice per year. His customers were mainly gold miners and farmers, or other businesses associated with those industries.
Andrew Brown Brown did good business and was an excellent businessman. He would bring in wagons of supplies. His store became a place not only to purchase goods, but was also a haven for news of the day where people would catch up on what was going on in the Kern River Valley and afar. Brown’s company also delivered goods and served as a mechanism of communication. He was a farmer and rancher, according to “Movers and Shakers” raising livestock and growing wheat. And, to top it off, he built a saw mill and flour mill. Brown was one of the top businessmen this area has ever seen.
Alphonse Weill Another store selling general merchandise was in Havilah and a clerk at the store was none other than Alphonse Weill, who would later open a small store of his own in Bakersfield, which eventually became a large department store in Bakersfield. Weill’s Department Store was run by the Weill Family until 1952. It, along with Brock’s Department Store, run by Malcolm Brock, became Bakersfield institutions. Fortunately for me, I remember going to Brock’s downtown before their opening of another store at the Valley Plaza and then being bought out by the now-defunct Gottschalk’s.
A look at early schools But, let me get back to the topic of schools. There are different variations of when where, and by whom the first class was taught in what would become Kern County. Edmund Ross Harrington wrote his doctoral thesis, “A History of School Organization and Administration in Kern County,” in June 1963. It is considered the “go to”
Mrs. Ellen Baker, wife of Col. Thomas Baker prior to 1863, when a teacher was hired. Other sources indicated Henrietta Weill opened the first kindergarten in 1863. All the schools to this point were not public schools, according to Harrington. They were merely the “best efforts to provide what education they could with the meager resources they had.” So, you can tell the problem with not having a written record of such things.
Area school districts
Brock’s Four O’clock Tea staff source when looking at the history of education in our county. The book quotes a source indicating the earliest account of a school in Kern County was run by Spanish Mission Padres who taught the children of Ventura Cuen, a Mexican miner. This purportedly took place in 1849, near the current Panama School in an area known as Rio Bravo (this name has been used by many to name their lands in Kern County throughout the course of time). Yet, another source told Harrington they believed the first school was in Whiskey Flat in 1863, and was taught by Adam Hamilton. Hamilton was the founder of Whiskey Flat. Kern Island, known as Bakersfield, had its first class taught by
One thing known for sure is the Kern County Board of Supervisors formed five public school districts in 1866. However, only Linns Valley and Havilah had student enrollments at the time. The Kern Island School District first showed students enrolled in 1867-1868. Harrington noted in his book there were under 20 students who went to school for a six-month term. This meager beginning has now grown into the largest elementary school district in California — the Bakersfield City School District.
Henrietta Weill
— Jeff Nickell is the Coordinator of Instructional Services Support for Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Mallik Thatipelli,
MD, FACC, FSVM, RVT Trained at world renowed Mayo Clinic Board Certified in: • Vascular Medicine • Endovascular Medicine • Phlebology
California Vascular & Vein Center & California Wound Care Center (Center for Arterial & Vein diseases) 2808 F St., Suite A, Bakersfield, CA 93301 To schedule an appointment contact Candy @ T: (661) 873-4216 F: (661) 873-4218 • Varicose veins, spider veins Email: calvascular@gmail.com
2300 Eye Street (Across from Rite Aide)
661.327.9999 www.reddoor-interior.com
Monday - Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5 • Closed Sunday
Insurances accepted: Medicare, Medical, Kern Family, Healthnet BC/BS and other private insurance carriers
• Peripheral arterial disease: P.A.D • Comprehensive Vascular Lab • Leg pains, night cramps • Leg wounds • Leg swelling • Aneurysm • Stroke • Blood clots bakersfieldlife.com
91
PERSONALITY
Beauty is skin deep By Melissa Peaker-Whitten
A
s the son of a military physician, Gordon Mitts, M.D., moved around a lot when he was growing up. He’s been a Bakersfield resident for almost 20 years now, and that’s the longest he’s lived in one place, which is why he calls it home. Mitts has been a plastic surgeon since 1983, he became board certified in 1986.
Favorite profession Following medical school at Loma Linda University, I spent a year in cardiovascular research. I then began my surgical career as a general surgery resident. During this time, I was able to rotate through many different surgical sub-specialties such as orthopedics, cardiac surgery and neurosurgery. I liked each of these, but when I rotated through plastic surgery, I met a young, dynamic, charismatic plastic surgery professor at UCLA named Malcolm Lesavoy. He showed me the great variety, creativity and desire for excellence, which is typified by the specialty of plastic surgery. After that, I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my career. He encouraged me to accept a position at the University of Indiana Medical Center to study plastic surgery under Dr. James Bennett, who at that time was the president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 92
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Favorite beauty tip The best beauty tip I have to offer is twofold: Do not smoke; and if you must expose your skin to the sun, use a good sunscreen or sunblock. Don’t change yourself drastically. Most all women have their own beauty. A few fine adjustments and subtle touch-ups are more eyeappealing. Favorite book The Bible. It has everything in it for a good life. Favorite movie “Rocky” because I’m a big boxing fan. I like rooting for the underdog. Favorite food Chinese or Italian. My favorite restaurant is my wife’s kitchen.
Favorite vacation spot It’s not really a vacation spot. It’s a weekend getaway cabin above Glennville. It sits on a creek that runs all year with clean air and beautiful scenery. Photo by Michael Fagans
Gordon Mitts, M.D
Favorite way to spend a day With my children and grandchildren, particularly up in the mountains.
Favorite pastimes Reading, genealogy, guns and martial arts.
GOING GREEN
Green is the new black
Photo by Jessica Frey
Pure-fection goes well with everything
Dee Dee Todd, owner of E Salon | Spa.
field thriving on 100 percent wind power. It uses recyclable and post-consumer recycled materials and products derived from raw, herbal ingredients, which not only aids in making you feel and look beautiful, but allows you to give back to the environment in the process. With every in-store visit, the salon offers a cup of Aveda tea, arousing one’s taste buds of sweet berries, tickled with pine and lemon zest. Also included when you walk in are two of seven complimentary services: aromatherapy, shoulder/neck massage, a finishing makeup application, hand and arm treatment or a men’s facial cleanse. Yes, men, along with women and children, reap the rewarding benefits that E Salon | Spa offers. Owner Dee Dee Todd said, “It’s all about giving back to the environment.” Cutting friends’ hair back in high school, Todd answered her calling in life, and loves what she does. “The best moments are those when I’ve changed someone’s life. Maybe it’s a new hair color, a drastic cut or a massage that worked out all the aches and pains; all of these result to feeling more beautiful, inside and out.” Her personal relationship with the environment has enhanced her own actions toward a healthier diet, exercise regimen and community work in Bakersfield. “Things I used to not think about, I now do.”
Dee Dee Todd’s top 3 products By Jolie Brouttier
N
othing looks as good as natural feels and while there is no such thing as perfection, “pure-fection” is available to all of us. It’s no secret Bakersfield has bad air, but two local women can breathe easier knowing they are doing their fair share to better Bakersfield and gear the community toward going green. E Salon | Spa Every time I have stepped into a salon, my nose hairs have curled from the strong aroma of harsh chemicals and commercial products. Walking into E Salon | Spa, a fullservice salon, spa and retail shop supplying products that are 97 percent botanical and eco-friendly, it smelled like green spirit. Amazing as it may be, the Aveda hair, skin, pure-fume and all lifestyle products are professionally developed, clinically tested and deeply respectful of the Earth. E Salon | Spa is the very first and only salon in Bakers94
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Hand Relief, $20: An incredibly rich moisture therapy that soothes dry, chapped hands leaving them noticeably softer and smoother with ingredients from hydrating plant emollients, humectants, exfoliating fruit acids and antioxidants, including vitamins A and E. “I have eczema and have always struggled to find a cream that leaves my hands silky, not sticky or greasy. I use it often daily, and it fits in my purse,” Todd said. Energizing Body Cleanser, $16: “This lathers like shaving cream and elicits amazing scents of peppermint,” Todd said. It purifies and invigorates your skin with a refreshing blend of aloe vera, witch hazel and grapefruit seed extract. Blue oil, $13.50: The simplicity of this roll-on, stress-relieving blue oil helps dissolve tension and raise energy levels with the balancing aromas of refreshing peppermint and soothing blue chamomile. Just apply a little to the inside of each wrist and hand, inhale, then exhale three times and expect to experience a calmer body and mind. Pulling it out of her pocket, Todd shared with me, “I’m constantly adjusting to a new situation, whether I am dealing with a client, going to my other location (Essentiels) or holding a meeting. If I am feeling anxious, I use this to relax.” This oil definitely took me to my “happy place” in a matter of three breaths.
The grass truly is greener on the other side, and if you haven’t yet experienced the eco-friendly lifestyle, “Don’t worry about a thing. ’Cause every little thing, is gonna be all right.” In fact, Bob Marley was heard singing these exact words as I observed, for the first time, all the wonders Greenshops has to offer. Here, they have children’s Tupperware and toys, like recycled-plastic sippy cups and building blocks. There is also linens and household items, 100 percent organic cotton sheets and vases made from restaurantrecycled Rolling Rocks. The entire interior of the store is green, including flooring made from cork and shelving made of wood — creations from nonprofit organizations. Among all of these items are beauty products that offer insight to the luxurious side of going green, such as 100 percent pure makeup, body wash, deodorant, sunscreen and soap. Individual ingredients are available in the handmade section for shoppers to express their natural talents and concoct facial scrubs, moisturizing oils or teas. “There isn’t one thing in Greenshops that isn’t ethically made; no sweatshop labor, pesticides used, plastic prints or harsh resins,” said store manager Raquel Vizcarra. Continued on page 96
Photo by Casey Christie
Greenshops
Greenshops manager Raquel Vizcarra.
661-617-6101 1500 Haggin Oaks, Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA
Dr. Geoff Keyes, M.D., F.A.C.S. Dr. David Lewis, M.D. • Beckie Duke, R.N.
www.skinsationmedispa.com
March Specials • • • •
New 1.0 Juvederm - same great price with 25% more volume!!!! 2 for 1 Latisse (while supplies last) Clarisonic Mias - available in a rainbow of colors....only $99.00 Vivite’ 25% OFF Now Exclusively at Skinsation: • Organic Teeth Whitening - Mention this ad for $99. (reg $129) • CLARSSKIN - New Breakthrough product that safely removes metals that cause “yellowing”/discoloration of clothing. Only $14.95
Come meet the reps and learn how you can
Brilliant Distinctions Day March 1st • 5:30 - 7:30
Save $275.00 on Botox, Juvederm, Vivite’ and Latisse Special pricing on Allergan products for those in attendance: • Pre-purchase Botox at $8.00/unit • Latisse and Vivite’ specials • Enter to win 20 units of Botox or 1/2 syringe of Juvederm
bakersfieldlife.com
95
Continued from page 95
Vizcarra who has an educational background in environmental science, always had an enthusiasm for improving our planet’s natural beauties. “I’ve always been intrigued by how all things are connected to the environment. I can save all the animals I want, but what about my family? My grandmother had cancer, I have relatives who suffer from Valley Fever and asthma ‌ Running this business is my way of taking action,â€? she said. Taking action indeed, Greenshops has partnered with local health food stores and events such as Keep Bakersfield Beautiful, Kern Green and Go Red to encourage others to get into the green scene. Though there is only one boutique in Bakersfield, greenshops.com is online nationwide. So, if you can’t get into your hybrid and drive over to the shop, going green is just a click away!
C crystals, distilled water and vegetable glycerin, which together create a wonderful serum to be used every morning and evening under your moisturizer. Holy Lamb Organic Wool Pillow, $90: “These pillows are hypo-allergenic, and if you have mild breathing issues, perhaps it’s all those chemicals you have sopped up in your pillow that your face is shoved into, inhaling eight hours a day. These chemicals then go into your muscles and organs, affecting your overall health.� They are naturally dust mite resistant and fire retardant. They’re also handmade using organic cotton fabric and are filled with eco grown wool.
Raquel Vizcarra’s top 3 products Pure Necessities Tub of Shea Butter, $11.99 - 23.99: This cream maintains your youthful glow, prevents premature aging, tries to control breakouts and nourishes overexposed sun-damaged skin. It comes in nine scents such as coconut lemongrass, kumquat freesia, sweet almond and Raquel’s favorite — lavender vanilla. I love it because of the quality of ingredients, how it penetrates into your skin and because it’s fresh!� Vizcarra said. Vitamin C Serum, $7.50: Shoppers come in and assemble this serum, which guarantees you’re getting the freshest product. Vizcarra said, “You make it on the spot. It doesn’t get any fresher or more natural than that!� Ingredients used are Vitamin
Since 1947
LIC# 378549
CUSTOM
CANVAS AWNINGS COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
3100 East Belle Terrace, Bakersfield Call (661)397-2121
hpsplumbingservices.com CA Lic. #793014 Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Honesty. Professionalism. Service. &NFSHFODZ 1MVNCJOH 3FQBJS t 4BNF %BZ 8BUFS )FBUFS 3FQBJS 3FQMBDFNFOU t $PNQMFUF 4FXFS %SBJO $MFBOJOH 4FSWJDFT 3FQJQF 4QFDJBMJTUT t 8BUFS 'JMUFST 4PGUFOFST t %JTQPTBMT 'BVDFUT 5PJMFUT 5SFODIMFTT 4FXFS -JOF 3FQMBDFNFOU t 6MUSBTPOJD -FBL %FUFDUJPO t 7JEFP *OTQFDUJPO %JBHOPTJT
)PVST %BZT B 8FFL
96
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Stationary • Motorized Retractable • Roller Curtains SGS Graphics • Canopies • Back-Lit Mention this ad, in Bakersfield Life™, * at time of purchase, to receive ...
10% OFF
Residential Awnings only. Order by 03/31/12
631 California Ave Bakersfield, CA 93304
661-322-7360
www.SpecialyTrimAwning.com
Actual Completed Remodel
Bakersfield’s only Certified Kitchen Designer/General Contractor
661.834.3333 KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN • CABINETRY • COUNTER TOPS • TILE HARDWOOD FLOORING • FULL SERVICE REMODEL
homeandleisure.com ~ SHOWROOM ~ 4500 SHEPARD CT., STE. B-2 www.stockdalecabinetry.com
5301 WHITE LN. 832-9000
General Contractor #940909
Upsize your LIFE
A choice of floor plans, elegant dining with chef-prepared meals, recreation, clubs and social activities.
Great retirement living means upsizing your life without downsizing your lifestyle. That’s what you’ll find right here. All the comforts of single-family living without the hassles of home maintenance. You’ll enjoy great food, great neighbors and great times. Everything you may want today or need tomorrow to enjoy an Optimum LifeŽ. Call now to schedule your personal tour.
Call today about our move-in specials and we will pay for your move! Independent Living, Personalized Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Exceptional Experiences Every DaySM 350 Calloway Drive, Bakersfield, California 93312
(661) 587-0221 www.brookdaleliving.com RCFE # 157203395  Â? Â? Â? Â?  Â€‚ƒ„Â? ƒÂ„ƒ …
bakersfieldlife.com
97
REAL PEOPLE
Arjay Gomez is a tattoo artist at Black Shamrock Tattoo in Northwest Bakersfield.
Tattoo artist CSUB grad has taken his artistic talents to a medium where there are no erasers By Allie Castro
T
Photos by Casey Christie
attoo artist and Bakersfield native Arjay Gomez grew up loving all things art: comic books, art class, drawing — and as an adult — tattoos. But even though he loved getting tattoos himself, when a friend first suggested he translate his creativity from canvas to skin, he recalled with a laugh, “I said, ‘That’s permanent, there’s no eraser on that.’” It wasn’t until the end of his senior year at Cal State Bakersfield — where fittingly, he majored in art studio and business — that he really considered adding this new medium. One of the tattoo shops in town that he frequented was looking for an apprentice to work there, so Gomez decided it was time he gave it a try. He said he thought at the very least, “I’ll be able to be tattooed whenever I want.” 98
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
The apprenticeship process took a couple of months before Gomez was allowed to pick up a needle. Prior to that, he had to put in time sweeping and mopping the store, and he learned how to make tattoo needles among other things. For his first task as a tattoo artist, his boss outlined a small tribal and Gomez filled it in with solid black ink. He said it was nerve-racking having his boss stand over him as he thought, “This is not going to turn out well.” Being a good artist doesn’t necessarily translate to being a good tattoo artist. Though the design concepts are similar, applying it to skin is another story. Gomez said tattoo artists have to learn how to not hurt or damage the skin, and how to apply color theory to skin instead of canvas. He added that already being an artist in other mediums helps with composition. When it comes to customers’ ideas, tattoo artists always aim to give their customers what they want, but they’ll also let you know if your idea isn’t going to pan out. Gomez advises that when people come in with ideas for a design in a certain spot, or with their own design drawn out, their artist can let them know if the tattoo will work in that spot, or if the composition needs tweaking. “The only
things I try to advise against are boyfriends and girlfriends names,” Gomez said with a laugh. “If they’re down to get them, I’m down to do it but the whole time I say, ‘Are you sure? Are you sure?’” Reality tattoo shows may have gone from educational to dramatic in recent years, but Gomez appreciates the exposure to tattooing it granted mainstream America. Getting rid of thinking that tattoos are taboo has been a change the tattoo community has welcomed.
Arjay Gomez does some work on one of his client’s arms at the Black Shamrock Tattoo shop.
One of Gomez’s favorite pieces he’s done was a tattoo on the knuckles of one woman’s hands. The left hand had the letters M-A-S-H while the right hand had cartoon monsters of Frankenstein, a vampire, a werewolf and a mummy. Gomez said this is the tattoo that gets him compliments at home and conventions alike. When picking out a tattoo, Gomez said that people choose a lot of tattoos that they see on others, like celebrities. That’s cool, but you should try to do it as custom as possible so it’s your own. If you have a general idea, bring it in, check out the artist’s work and see what you like or prefer, then make it your own. It helps to have a general idea of what you want when
you walk into a tattoo shop, but be open to letting the experts help you out. Sometimes design ideas are too over-specific and the artist knows it won’t work out the way the client envisioned. Be open to working with the artist and creating drafts until you find the design that is just right for you. Finding the right tattoo artist takes time look through portfolios; don’t hunt for the best deal. Gomez advises to find an artist whose coloring, line work and overall style you enjoy, and if you’re intimidated by the price, save up. Bargain hunting, he said, is not going to get you the tattoo you want.
N E I L
Call Amber Today 1-800-691-7817 661-323-7817
Open: Monday - Friday 7am -5pm
S I M O N ’ S
Purchase tickets online, by phone, or at the Theatre Box Office
STARS THEATRE RESTAURANT 1931 CHESTER AVENUE
Serving Kern County Since 1910
325-6100 bmtstars.com
330 E. 19th Street www.berchtold.com
MARCH 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24 bakersfieldlife.com
99
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Five tips for healthy eyes
1. Laser eye surgery
thinkstock.com
Improving vision and maintaining eye health are important aspects of our lives that should not be ignored. Lasik is the most popular method of laser eye surgery and has continued to advance over time, said Hawley. To undergo surgery, a patient must be over 21 years of age and have had a stable prescription for at least two years. There are two steps involved in the process of correction: First, the surgeon makes a flap. Prior to the use of lasers, this procedure was done with a blade. According to Hawley, lasers have proven to be more accurate and produce better results. During the second step, the laser corrects the patient’s vision that generally stabilizes by the next day, though changes can occur within the first three months.
Dr. John Hawley
T By Breanna Fields
Hawley explained that although Lasik eye surgery may seem trendy, most people still rely on eyeglasses. There are a variety of lenses available, ranging from ones that cut down on glare to lenses that are recommended for outdoor or sports activities. Polarized lenses are great to use while driving due to the fact that they reduce glare. While polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and often used in sports, photochromic lenses become tinted when they’re exposed to sunlight. Visit webmd.com for detailed information and to compare different types of lenses. For those who have old eyeglasses lying around, Hawley emphasized that many eye doctors accept used glasses and make an effort to donate them to those in need. Photo by Casey Christie
Photo by Casey Christie
2. Eyeglasses
thinkstock.com
here are certain things in life that are easy to take for grant- 3. Common eye problems The most common eye-related problem in Bakersfield ed: vision is one. The thought is dry eyes, which is caused by the environment, said of eye care beyond the occaHawley. Dry eyes can be treated with specialized medisional checkup only comes into cine or artificial tears. Cataracts are another common eye problem. This is when the lenses in the eyes begin play when receiving glasses or contacts. to cloud over due to UV light damage. Other symptoms include blurry vision, glare or double vision. For extreme Existing within the same routine each day, cases, surgery is an option. whether it is work or school, makes it much easier to forget about the importance of 4. Contact lenses are many types of maintaining eye health. We caught up with There contact lenses like daily disDr. John Hawley, an optometrist at Premier posables, two-week lenses, one-month lenses and Eye Care, who discussed common eye lenses that you can sleep in. problems and offered helpful tips to local It is important that people are aware of the dangers residents. that are involved when
100
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
sleeping in contacts over night. If the lenses are not specifically designed for that purpose, it can cause infection and lead to more serious problems. Contact lens care is another factor that must be considered. Hawley insists that people follow a strict regiment and regularly dispose of contacts on the proper date. The expiration date has been decided and tested by the FDA and will prevent eye infection.
5. Maintaining eye health
Hawley explained that although eyesight is genetic, there are still a number of ways to improve eye health. Consuming an adequate amount of antioxidants and vitamins is a great way to improve vision. Blueberries, raspberries, pinto beans and strawberries are just a few foods that are high in antioxidants. Dark green vegetables such as kale, broccoli, sprouts and spinach contain lutein, a carotenoid. Lutein and zeaxanthin are both very important to have in the diet and contribute to eye health as well as vitamins C and E, zinc and omega-3, which can be found in fish and a variety of nuts.
W oman?
Why I choose Total
ENERGY
The positive energy I get there and the physical energy I take with me is incredible. As working Mom of three, I can use all the energy I can get! Even on those exhausting days when I have to force myself to go– I always feel better for doing so. My life would not be as great as it is without Total Woman.
Char lotte Stuteville
25
% OFF ALL
NO CONTRACT
2 BEDROOM RENTS
STARTING AT $1090* Senior Community Designed for you Privacy - A Gated Community, Single Level Cottage - Style Apartment Homes Social Events - Travel Clubs, Clubhouse gatherings, Concerts and more. Neighborhood Conveniences - Shopping, Banking, Restaurants
Come See Your New Home!
*OAC, Limited Availability.
4IPSU 5FSN .FNCFSTIJQT NPOUIT GPS B MJNJUFE UJNF 0òFS FYQJSFT
www.VillasAtScenicRiver.com 661-588-2400 4015 Scenic River Lane Bakersfield, CA 93308 ACCESSIBLE FACILITY
5SVYUVO &YU t )BHFNBO 3E t XXX UXĂśUOFTT DPN Become a Fan of Total Woman on Facebook
Directions: From Highway 99 take the Olive Drive exit going West. Turn left onto Coffee Road, and left on Meany Ave. Turn left onto Scenic River Lane.
bakersfieldlife.com
101
TALK OF THE TOWN
Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government New watchdog group to keep tabs on hot-button issues Compiled by Brian N. Willhite
A
new watchdog group has emerged in Kern County with the purpose of taking on the role of information advocate. Its aim is to assist the public by providing the facts for hot-button topics in a non-political environment. With a goal to offer more transparency within local government, Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government also advocates more responsibility and accountability by monitoring lawmakers and lobbying to make sure that all the options are on the table, so voters can make more informed decisions. The nonprofit was formed by three local businessmen: Chad Hathaway, 35, owner of Hathaway LLC and Payzone Directional Services, John P. Lake, 33, director of marketing for the family-owned business, Rain for Rent, and Patrick Wade, 32, a fifth generation Bakersfield native and owner of Precision Pharmacy, which makes medications for performance horses. In addition, it employs a community liaison, Jenifer Pitcher, who attends local government meetings and acts as an information agent between KCSG and elected officials. Recently, Wade spoke openly with Bakersfield Life and described the organization’s mission and goals for serving the public’s interests.
We wanted to start an organization where there’s no personal gain involved and really just look over what’s happening in Kern County to promote a sustainable government. We have a certain amount of resources, so how do we use those resources most effectively to benefit the citizens of Kern County. I think there are times 102
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Patrick Wade, one of the founding members of Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government.
Photo by Brian N. Willhite
The more watchdogs, the better
Photo by Henry A. Barrios
From left, Patrick Wade, Chad Hathaway, Jenifer Pitcher and J.P. Lake make up Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government.
where there needs to be a private “watchdog” that monitors, or at least pays attention, to what’s being done by our officials. Available exclusively at
Measure D connection KCSG was formed in 2010. We played a small part in Measure D (a measure on the November 2010 ballot to reform pensions for police and firefighters) and we thought that it was something that really needed to be passed, especially with the budget situation at the time. We started running some commercials on local radio stations and I think it dawned on all three of us, “Hey, I feel great about this.” We played our part in passing Measure D, but more than that, we did something beyond just calling our local city councilman or walking door to door to support something. We actually felt like we contributed and wondered how far we could take this.
White Lane & Wible Road 396-8400
Brimhall and Calloway 241-9329
PREMIER PET CARE
Keeping an eye on the lawmaker The community liaison we have is spending a lot of time and a lot of energy going out and getting in people’s faces to make our presence known in the political sector. We have a billboard up on 7th Standard near Porterville Highway. We are running full-page ads in The Californian, we’re going on radio shows and we’ve been meeting with county supervisors and other political people in town just to make sure they know we’re there watching. And in the end, if an elected politician has made decisions that hurt the public, the average taxpayer, or a decision that’s bad for Kern County, we are going to use the resources available to us to let the public know who exactly made those decisions.
NOW OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK
• Emergency Services • TPLO Cruciate Surgery • Routine Veterinary Care
50%
OFF Office For FirstVisit or ER Vis it Time Clie nt Ex
It’s about taking a stand, more than choosing a party We will certainly choose sides on principles. We aren’t going to choose sides as far as Democrat or Republican. I don’t think either side is always right. We’re going to say this is where we stand on this; that’s the overall point of the group: to get all the facts, take the time, do the research and come to a conclusion and let the public know what they don’t have the time to research on their own. However, we’re not going to specifically endorse individuals. We’re not going to say “vote for X candidate.” Ultimately, we’re officially an advocacy organization. So we’re singling out issues, gathering facts and presenting them to the public. That’s the scope of what we’re doing. — To learn more about Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government, visit their website at kerncitizens.org.
• Endoscopies • Fracture Repair • Vaccinations
pires 4
Only
Mentio /30/2012 n CALL this ad. TODA Y!
ACCREDITED PRACTICE
9887 CAMINO MEDIA (661) 665-8950 WWW.ATTHEOAKSPETHOSPITAL.COM
bakersfieldlife.com
103
TRIP PLANNER
The Huntington Short time to Pasadena promises history, plenty of shopping and great food
The Japanese garden has been under renovation for some time, but is scheduled to reopen by April 4.
By Lois Henry
Y
Photos courtesy of The Huntington
ou know those weekends where you want to do “something” but you’re not sure what? You don’t want to spend too much money or exert too much energy, but you want a little culture or to see something different and get that “big city” feel. L.A. is too much. But hanging out in town just isn’t enough. Well, that’s exactly why they invented Pasadena. I had one of those blah weekends recently, and perked myself right up with a day trip to Pasadena where I rambled around The Huntington Library and then explored the Paseo de Colorado mall in Old Town. It was relaxing, not too expensive and I still got that “go-somewhere-do-something” experience. And all in an easy two-hour drive. If you haven’t been to The Huntington, or haven’t been in a while, you have to add it to your list. If you leave town by 9 a.m., you can be there in time to look around for at least an hour before you hit the Tea Room or coffee cart for lunch. My advice is to wear comfortable walking shoes because one of the best parts of The Huntington is the extensive gardens that you can stroll through on your own. Be sure and grab a map at the en104
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Gutenberg Bible.
trance! They do have free tours if you’d prefer a guide, but it’s very accessible either way. I like the desert garden best because the cacti are so weird. Next to that, I’d say the Japanese garden is the most distinctive. It was under renovation when I went in February, but should be back up and running in early April.
If you go Open noon to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Tuesdays. Cost $15 for adults on weekdays, $20 on weekends and holidays. Parking is free. More info: 626-405-2100 or huntington.org. Address: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, Calif., 91108.
The mansion at The Huntington Library has a broad patio and an expansive view of the Los Angeles area. There’s really something for everyone, an Australian garden, jungle garden, a camellia garden and even a Shakespearean garden. Hard to imagine this all used to be one dude’s back yard! The Huntington’s website has a really good calendar of events so you can get even
more out of your trip. While I love the gardens, the other thing I like best about The Huntington (and what it’s really known for) is its collection of early, rare manuscripts. Little things like a Gutenberg Bible and documents from the American Revolution, Civil War and so much more.
Scholars from all over the world come here to study the rare documents. I find it fascinating to be standing in mild, cheery Pasadena looking at things like a bill of sale from the early 1800s for two human beings. Or General George Washington’s hand-written list of troops under his command. Actually, the library portion is always my first stop, even before the gardens, so I can nerd out on the exhibits and not feel rushed.
Exquisite Bridal Engagement Sets Complete with Center Diamond, Matching Wedding Band & Gem Lab Certificate Starting from
$1,495 to $6,995
Jane’s Jewelers Where Bakersfield Gets Engaged! Corner Calloway & Hageman Rd. • 661-587-6242 Layaways Welcome - Interest Free Facebook.com/JanesJewelers
Hours: Tue.-Fri. 10am-6pm Sat. 10am-3pm • Closed Sun. & Mon.
bakersfieldlife.com
105
The mansion itself is The Huntington’s art gallery. They have the original “Blue Boy.” And some of the exhibits are really interesting. But otherwise, the main collection of European art isn’t my cup of tea, so I always do the mansion last if I have time. I recommend a trip through it, however. The house itself is pretty amazing. Henry Huntington and his wife, Arabella, (who, at one time, was his aunt. Quite a story there!) built the house in 1911. By the way, that was the same year he bought the Gutenberg Bible for $50,000. Wow! The Huntington fortune began with the Southern Pacific and Central Pacific railroads. Henry Huntington later built most of Southern California’s intercity streetcar systems. He died in 1927. See? You’re intrigued. You should head down there and learn more. After you’re just about worn out from The Huntington, I recommend a quick drive down Colorado Boulevard to the Paseo de Colorado, an extensive open-air mall with underground parking. Great shops where you can find some
106
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
The interior of the Huntington mansion is also home to the art gallery, where the original “Blue Boy” painting resides. killer deals (it has a DSW Shoe warehouse, ladies!). And there are lots of good restaurants. Not the usual fare, but really interesting stuff.
I went to Porto Alegre, which served Brazilian barbecue. I didn’t know what to expect, but left quite happy. Word to the wise, it’s a meat-eater’s paradise.
THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN ON TWITTER
BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN TBC BREAKING NEWS
BAKODEALS
@bakersfieldcali
@tbcbreakingnews
BAKERSFIELDMOM.COM
BAKERSFIELD LIFE
BAKOSPHERE
TBC OPINION SECTION
RICHARD BEENE
JORGE BARRIENTOS
JAMIE BUTOW
JILL COWAN
ZACHARY EWING
MIKE GRIFFITH
STEVEN MAYER
LOGAN MOLEN
@BakersfieldMoms
@BakersfieldLife
@bakodeals
@TheBakosphere
The desert garden at The Huntington Library in Pasadena has a variety of fascinating plants adapted to their harsh environments. TBC OPINION SECTION
@TheEditorialPg
DRE#00624026
@JamieButow
Edward
Manager
Mery
Realtor
Betty
Broker/Owner
@RevRico
@JillCowan
@TBCTheGrade
@zewing
Shawn
Escrow Coord.
@MikeGriffith54
MATT MUNOZ
@BakotopiaMatt
@semayer
@lmolen
http://bakersfield.com/twitter
bakersfieldlife.com
107
GET OUT OF TOWN
118
Moorpark Ave. ngeles E. Los A
110
Tierra Rijada Rd.
1
23
Camarillo
34
osa Rd. Santa R
. n Rd Olse
12
3
10
13
4
2
8
11
Lindero Can yon Rd.
Lynn Rd.
6
Erbe s Rd.
S. Las P osas Rd .
Rd.
Newbury Park
9
Thousand Oaks Blvd. Westlake
is S. Lew
101
Avenida De Los Arboles
Moorpark Blv d.
5 Pleasant Valley Rd.
Simi Valley
ra Rd. Made
4 mi.
Thousand Oaks Blvd.
7
Westlake Village
Simi Valley/ Thousand Oaks
N
ot far from the busy streets of Los Angeles is a tight-knit community that hosts an abundance of activity and excitement for those willing to make the short drive. With its family-oriented entertainment and attractions, Simi Valley bridges the gap between the bustling city life and a local, homegrown community. Offering venues for live performances and museums, (which includes Ronald Reagan’s library and memorial site), as well as upscale dining and shopping plazas, it’s no mystery why Bakersfield residents continue to visit the area and enjoy the cultural atmosphere that it has to offer.
2
Photo by Clarice Hammett
By Breanna Fields
Do
108
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
7 Photo by Rostom Aghanian
Visit the museum and memorial site of past president and visionary Ronald Reagan at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Library 1 . 40 Presidential Drive. 805-5222977; reaganfoundation.org. Experience the beauty of Gardens of the World 2 as you walk through majestic gardens that resemble their native countries. 2001 Thousand Oaks Blvd. 805557-1135; gardensoftheworld.info. Known for its folklore of mysterious hauntings and rich history of the stagecoach era, the Stagecoach Inn Museum 3 is filled with historical information that will fascinate the entire family. 51 S. Ventu Park Road. 805-498-9441; stagecoachmuseum.org. Take a trip to the Civic Arts Plaza 4 and catch a live theater or music performance featuring local and international talents. 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd. 805-449-2700; toaks.org/cap.
asianpeach.worldpress.com
13
Shop Design the perfect look at Camarillo Premium Outlets 5 , which caters to all your fashion and footwear needs. 740 E. Ventura Blvd. 805-445-8520; premiumoutlets.com/camarillo. Get in style this season by visiting The Oaks 6 , another high-end shopping mall. 350 W. Hillcrest Drive. 805-495-2032; shoptheoaksmall.com. If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, The Promenade at Westlake 7 provides an excellent dining experience as well as clothing shops and specialty boutiques. 100 Promenade Way. 818-637-8923;
shoppromenade.com. Don’t forget to stop by The Lakes at Thousand Oaks 8 to purchase a variety of organic fruits and vegetables at their local farmers market every Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. 818-637-8924; shoplakes.com.
Eat Dine in at Saffron Indian Cuisine & Bar 9 , which offers an assortment of chicken, fish, lamb and vegetarian dishes. 579 N. Ventu Park Road. 805-499-7115; saffronnewburypark.com. Order a kabob entree at the Darband Grill 10 that serves mouth-water veggies, beef, chicken and other meats. 868 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. 805-449-1323; darbandgrill.menutoeat.com. Treat yourself to an exquisite French pastry or handmade chocolate at Chocolatine 11 and wash it down with one of their signature coffees or teas. 2955 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. 805-557-0561; chocolatine.net. For those in the mood for Mexican-style seafood, Mariscos Cancun Seafood Grill 12 cooks up fresh, reasonably priced meals. 1074 E. Avenida De Los Arboles. 805-241-3767. Enjoy classic Thai food at Cholada Thai Cuisine 13, which offers healthy portions of soups, salads, pan fry noodles, curries and many more traditional favorites. 1774 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite A. 805-557-0899; choladathaicuisine. com.
IS IT SAFE OR IS IT LIBERTY SAFE?
CENTURION U.L. SECURITY RATING
COLONIAL
FAIL-SAFETM TRIPLE RELOCKERS
FRANKLIN BREAK-IN WARRANTY
LINCOLN
PRESIDENTIAL
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
NATIONAL
NEW BTU FIRE RATINGS!
See Liberty’s Complete Line of Safes at TNTLIBERTYSAFE.COM
T&T LIBERTY SAFES NO R
Y
RI S
HW
RD
.E
XI
E AT ST
T
EN SNOW ROAD
NORRIS RD. E.
T&T
7104 GOLDEN STATE HWY
.
DR
bakersfieldlife.com
SEN
OLIVE DRIVE
UD
KN
The Largest Gun, Home, and Office Safe Display in the Valley
7th STANDARD RD.
LD
Hours: MON-FRI 9am - 6pm SAT 9am - 4pm
GO
7104 Golden State Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93308 Showroom 393-3782 • www.tntlibertysafe.com
109
Serenity Salon & Spa Address: 3900 Coffee Road, Suite 1 Phone number: 661-587-9222 Website: serenitysalon-spa.com Facebook search: Serenity Salon & Spa
How long has Serenity Salon been open? Serenity Salon & Spa was established in 2006. As of May 2011, Casey and Linda Rion became the new owners. Since the transfer of ownership, there has been several changes including a newly remodeled look that makes Serenity an elite and inviting salon. What kinds of services and products does your salon offer? Aside from being a full service salon, Serenity has a team that continues to strive in educating themselves in the most advanced, cutting edge techniques in the business, thus giving them an advantage in offering services and consultations in the fashion and beauty industry. Serenity currently has 25 stylists who have specialty certifications in Brazilian blowout; Keratin complex; Keragreen; Great Lengths, Hotheads and Donna Bella hair extensions, just to name a few. In a relaxing spa setting we have four experienced estheticians who specialize in facials and skin treatments, microdermabrasion, eyelash extensions, full body massage, hot stone and prenatal massage, permanent makeup and full body waxing. The six creative manicurists are ready to perform services such as Gelish, Shellac, unique nail art and spa pedicures/manicures. We have recently added a makeup station for those special days that offers 110
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Photo by Valdophye
BUSINESS PROFILE
airbrush or traditional application. Also, we have tanning packages that allow you to choose from three different UVB beds, including spray tanning and UVB teeth whitening. In addition to the licensed professionals, Serenity is proud to announce the partnering with Dr. Edmund Fisher who is in the salon monthly, by appointment only to consult with patients about surgical and nonsurgical procedures to help maintain a young and renewed look. At Serenity, you will find the largest retail selection of hair, skin and nail products at competitive pricing to achieve a fresh, out-of-the-salon look. The retail area also exhibits stylish boutique items such as jewelry, handbags and accessories. What is the atmosphere like at Serenity Salon? From the minute you are greeted at the door, Serenity provides a spacious, yet inviting professional environment. The floor plan allows you to enjoy conversation with friends and stylists with up-beat energy that is contagious. At the same time, you can relax in a separate part of the salon to take advantage of the spa services. What makes Serenity Salon a unique place to get pampered? Serenity Salon has set itself apart in the industry by ensuring we can truly be a “one-stop shop.� With a diverse staff, we can match all your individual needs under one roof. Serenity Salon & Spa is home to a team of 38 who are all dedicated in providing their clients with the best possible experience.
Serenity SALON & SPA
3900 COFFEE ROAD SUITE #1 BAKERSFIELD, CA 93308 WWW.SERENITYSALON-SPA.COM 661.587.9222 MONDAY 8AM-5PM TUESDAY-SATURDAY 8AM-7PM SATURDAY 8AM-5PM
Partners at Chain|Cohn|Stiles, from left: Paul A. Welchans, Marshall C. Frasher, David V. Stiles, David K. Cohn, James A. Yoro and Matthew C. Clark (not in photo — Matthew N. Malerich).
Chain|Cohn|Stiles
Photo by Jessica Frey
BUSINESS PROFILE
What do you specialize in? Chain|Cohn|Stiles law firm specializes in accidents, personal injury, wrongful death, burn and catastrophic injuries as well as many other types of injury cases. Our firm has been in existence for more than 75 years and has won top verdicts and settlements for thousands of injured victims. We have a team of successful lawyers committed to personal attention, fast action and excellent representation. Our lawyers have devoted their casework exclusively to personal injury law and have a proven track record of outstanding results. Each year, we recover millions of dollars for our clients.
What makes your attorneys different? Many of our attorneys are Bakersfield natives. Currently, five out of seven attorneys graduated from local high schools, then returned after college to join the firm. David K. Cohn (West High School), David V. Stiles (Bakersfield High School), James A. Yorro (Garces Memorial High School), Matthew C. Clark (Garces Memorial High School) and Matthew N. Malerich (Garces Memorial Super Lawyer High School). They are also very involved Paul A. Welchans in supporting the community such as The Grossman Burn Center, CASA, Victim Witness Auxiliary of Kern County and many other organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults living in Kern County. All of the attorneys are dedicated to services and programs that raise the quality of life, dignity and independence in this community.
What are Super Lawyers? Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multiphased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. Mr. David K. Cohn, senior managing partner and Mr. Paul A. Welchans, a partner, were selected by Southern Californian’s Super Lawyers Magazine 2012 as top attorneys. Again, only 5 percent of attorneys in Southern California are named to this list.
What other services does the firm provide to the community? More than 45 years ago, Chain|Cohn|Stiles pioneered the Group Law Service program to provide quality legal help for working people. We are committed to serving the community of Kern County, especially credit unions, labor unions and service organizations. Members of the Group Law Service and their immediate family are entitled to free initial consultations and reduced fees for legal documents.
Address: 1430 Truxtun Ave. Phone: 661-323-4000 Website: chainlaw.com Facebook search: Chain|Cohn|Stiles
112
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Apex Management Group Providing a local touch
Owner: Shannan Ogilvie Address: 4900 California Ave., Suite 210 (Tower B) Phone: 661-377-1938 Website: apex-mg.net
By Gene Garaygordobil If you’re lucky enough to chat with Shannan Ogilvie when she has a free moment, you’ll see how driven she is to satisfy all of her customers’ needs. Right now, the Apex Management Group owner has five clients, but they aren’t necessarily people. Instead, she represents local homeowners associations, which under the law are technically California nonprofit corporations. But these associations are made up of thousands of local Bakersfield residents, so in a sense, she is the one responsible for making these people’s issues disappear. She helps members of the homeowner association’s board of directors make their daily decisions, providing support and guiding them. “I ensure all complaints are addressed,” Ogilvie said. “It’s a big job.” That includes paying bills, collecting assessments, soliciting vendors, getting new work done and what she calls the unfortunate side of the business, “letting owners know when there are problems with their property.” “Residents need to know that I am only doing what the association wants,” she said. “It’s those rules that I have to help enforce.” Currently, Apex Management takes care of five homeowner’s associations: Brighton Village, Cricklewood, Haggin Oaks Villas, Seven Oaks at Grand Island and Windermere at Seven Oaks. While walking the grounds at Seven Oaks at Grand Island one re114
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Apex Management Group owner Shannan Ogilvie
Photo by Maria Ahumada-Garaygordobil
BUSINESS PROFILE
cent day, Ogilvie said that particular property has an annual operating budget of more than $1 million for the 750-plus homes there. Apex Management provides first class community association management in Bakersfield. The team of highly trained professionals is committed to delivering tailored services to each and every one of our communities to support property values and maintain the best quality of life for community residents. Apex Management values dedication, integrity and commitment, servicing communities with meticulous attention to detail and the highest ethical standards. Apex Management provides professional, cost-effective management services. The company’s goal is to be the leading and most respected community association management company in the Bakersfield market. Apex Management can enhance the lifestyle of the residents by providing solid leadership and sound financial management for the community. Ogilvie’s background offers more than 20 years of real estate management experience — all in Bakersfield including managing residential, retails and community association properties. She’s been married to her husband, Paul, for 13 years, and has two boys: Shane, 20, and Hunter, 12. Ogilvie also just received her real estate broker license. One reason she started her company back on Jan. 1, 2010, was because she noticed the number of “out-of-town” management companies managing Bakersfield’s homeowners associations. “I’m local, and I use local people,” she said. “And that’s very important to me. To provide as much local service as I can.” Her favorite part of the job is “talking to all the members, getting to know the people here,” Ogilvie said. “Solving their problems, seeing a project all the way through completion and making a difference with them.”
How can a company in New Jersey manage your community better than we can locally?
They can’t. The most important thing a community management team can have is local knowledge and experience. The kind you get with the Apex Management Group. We know the market. We know your community. We know you. And we know how to maintain the kind of living environment that made you choose your community to begin with. How do we do that? First of all by being accessible on a local level. When you bring an issue, question or concern to our attention you will speak with a representative who is familiar with your community and the latest developments that affect you; usually within 24 hours and most likely the very same day. Perhaps more importantly, Apex Management Group is a proud management firm counsel member of the California Association of Community Managers and adheres to CACM’s best practices and strict Code of Ethics. Apex Management Group’s president is also a Certified Community Association Manager. And finally, Apex Management Group has over 20 years of local real estate management experience with some of Bakersfield’s premier residential communities.
Choosing the right management team for your community is an important decision. When you choose the Apex Management Group you’ll know you’ve made the right one. 4900 California Avenue Tower B Suite 210 Bakersfield, CA 93309
661-377-1938
We don’t build communities… we make them better.
www.apex-mg.net DRE License #01126450
Prime Finds 1. Not just flowers
From flowers to unique gifts! Come see Uniquely Chic’s wide selection of the latest trendy gifts. Call 661-588-7997 or visit us at uniquelychicflorist.com.
1.
Uniquely Chic
2.
Almond toffee popcorn
This addiction is now available in one-pound packaging, so yummy you’ll want more. Find them at Imbibe, Olcotts, Lil B’s, Cafe Med, Arina’s, Cal Fruit Depot and KMC gift shops. 661-834-3160, sweetsherree.com.
Sweet Sherree’s Sweets
3.
Paint your favorite Disney character!
Color Me Mine has expanded their selection of Disney characters, including Mickey and the gang, the Disney princesses, Dumbo, Tinker Bell and Simba, too! Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 661-664-7366, bakersfield.colormemine.com.
Color Me Mine at The Marketplace
4. Kaktus Moon jewelry
Original, one-of-a-kind jewelry designs by Lupé. All pieces are created with semi-precious stones, including freshwater pearls, turquoise, jasper, black onyx and more. 1609 19th St. 661-325-0000.
2.
Kuka’s
5. Love Spell handbag
Rebecca Minkoff Accessories and Ready to Wear available exclusively at Tangerine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 661-6649500 or tangerineclothing.com. Find us on Facebook.
Tangerine
6. Mouth-watering toffee
Fine handmade English toffee made by Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth. Available at Luigi’s, Olcotts, Sweet Surrender and Café Med, Flourishing Art and Sullivan Petroleum stores. Call 661-725-5200 or visit auntmaes sweettooth.com.
Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth
7. Yummy yogurt
Sixteen flavors to choose from daily with a total of 40 different flavors. More than 45 toppings to choose from, including fresh fruit. No sugar added is also available. 8200 Stockdale Highway, 661-396-8000.
Tutti Frutti
8.
Biscuit Boutique also carries gift items!
Biscuit Boutique & Doggy Spa for all your dog’s needs at 1617 19th St. For more information, call 661-321-9602.
Biscuit Boutique & Doggy Spa 116
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
3.
4.
5. 6.
7.
8.
bakersfieldlife.com
117
K.C. Sheriff Reserve Unit’s Awards and Installation Dinner Jan. 14 Held at Bakersfield Elks Lodge Photos by Brian N. Willhite View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Lindy and Ken Smith
Diana Kadel and Teri Canby
Denis and Gail Smithson
Sandy and Chuck Perlis
Christine and Kevin Wright
Donna Williamson, Nancy Venable, Esther Williamson and Bob Venable
Tyson Davis, Tarren Davis, Kat Marshall, Dean Marshall, Shari McGlothlen and Tony Todisco
(855) 393-2840 www.motorcitywest.com
Urner’s Z’s Please Sleep Center Grand Opening
Evelyn and Jim Weddle
Fred Nilson and Pamela Sievers
Jan. 12 Brian N. Willhite View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Andy Barkate, Steve Illingworth, Greg Honegger and Dave Perkins
Lindsay Atchley (holding Ryleigh Atchley), Steve Illingworth (holding Lila Atchley) and Dustin Atchley
Maggie Byrd, Gregg Byrd and Walt Wurtman
Heather Pennella, Holly Arnold and Scott Enos
Latina Leaders of Kern County Holiday Social Dec. 8 Held at Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center Photos by Ashley Reyes View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Ari Cimental and Chris Thornburgh
Leticia Garza and Magda Menendez
Fran Trevino, Mary Amelia Reyna and Angela Williams
Maria Davalos, Ida Tagliente and Monica Sanchez
Naomi Lopez, Suzie Torres, Tami Olivares and Tere Quintana
Joe Serrano, Maria Mercado, Karen Goh and Jewelle Scales
“Why stress over Your to-do list? Donʼt you deserve a Dr. Yeoman smile? SECOND SMILE DENTURE CARE
Onsite lab for same day repairs & relines 3301 19th Street • www.secondsmiledds.com • (661) 325-1263 120
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Errands, Shopping, Tasks & More Browse list of services at MYERRANDGIRL.COM
CALL TODAY for $10 off YOUR first service: 661.809.9001
Sheriff’s Activities League Recognition Dinner
Donny Youngblood and Roxan Joyner
Henry and Lisa Brum
Leslie and Tony Aguilar
Diane Bachtel and Michael Trihey
Jan. 27 Held at Norris Road Veterans Hall Photos by Brian N. Willhite View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Mercedes Flores, Carlos Mayorga and Adriana Flores
Jim Ross, Ruth Leon, Irma Cervantes, Adam Lancaster, Leticia Perez (holding Jude Jara) and Linda Fiddler
Special Services Include: • Colonoscopy • Endoscopy • Video Capsule Endoscopy • ERCP • Cancer Screening Esophageal pH & Motility Study • Treatment fo Liver Diseases • Ambulatory Endoscopy Center 9870 Brimhall Rd. #100 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661)588-8725 Fax (661)588-8749
20041 Hwy 202, Valley Blvd., Unit 3, Tehachapi, Ca 93561 (661) 822-0377 Fax (661) 588-8749
www.bakersfieldgi.com bakersfieldlife.com
121
Winter Wonderland Dec. 16 Held at the home of Peter De La Torre Photos by Alan Antiporda View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Mark Gonzales and Peter De La Torre
Cheri Lyn Allard and Jose Granados
Dean Taylor and Peter De La Torre
Jan Hefner and Chris Forest
Jack Palmer and James Bethell
Barbara Penaloza, Christy Masengale, Terry Tsitakis, Michael Gardner and Jim Rupp
Adam Barragan, Allen Belluomini, James Weddell, Enrique Acosta, Alex Hart and Helen Acosta
We Are Growing
WELCOME HOME #1
3504 Alpha Ct. Bakersfield, 93312 Lic. #157202436
AVAILABLE AT
WELCOME HOME #2
11908 Stellar Ave Bakersfield, 93312 Lic. #157202523
C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
661-399-9734
122
8618 Golden State Hwy. #B Bakersfield Life
March 2012
welcomehomellc@gmail.com
FOR MORE INFO: 661-333-3814
welcomehomercfe.com
(855) 393-2840 www.motorcitywest.com
Junior Diabetes Research Foundation Winter Wine Fest Fundraiser
Mary Jo Rangel, Kelly Story and Laura Butterbredt
Kyle Williams, Daron Hobson, Dar West and Brenda Hobson
Catherine Gay, Bill Miller and David Gay
Sylvia and Dan Lozano
Feb. 3 Held at Bakersfield Museum of Art Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Kevin and Kelley Sneed
Allison Perkins Thomas, Kevin Charette, Paula Alamshahi and Cody Brutlag
Susan Swanson, Sandie McEwen, Suzy Alexander, Stacey Papasergia and Robbin Hamilton
Sean and Jenny Barker and Frank and Tina Cantelmi
Stephanie Falk, Ryan Falk and Brooklin Jung bakersfieldlife.com
123
Felix Adamo’s Fiore & Floret opening Feb. 6 Held at Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Robert Crewdson and Nicole Saint-John
Mackenzie and Maggie Cushine
Ed Flickinger and Enone Evans
Jarrod McNaughton and Jan St Pierre
Kevin Burton and Beckie Diltz
HOFFMANN HOSPICE
Felix Adamo, Ed Reep, Mark Smith and Teresa Adamo
Gilberto Hinojosa’s last wish was to attend his daughter’s high school graduation. He did so in 2008, with wife Rosa and nurse Laura Burns.
At the end of life, every choice matters. 661-410-1010 www.hoffmannhospice.org 124
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
Jennifer Williams, Alan Urquhart and Susan Reep
INSIDE STORY
The right fragrance for every occasion
U
lta Beauty opened in The Marketplace in 2011 with a concept to provide a one-stop experience for all beauty needs. The Chicago-based company was created in 1990. “We offer a wonderful mix of popular and prestige cosmetics and skin care, professional hair products and services and fragrances in an environment that creates a sense of indulgence,” said Suzie McGill, general manager.
Go for lighter scents Lighter scents are best for a professional environment. For women, McGill suggests Issey Miyake/ Light Floral, Coach Poppy/Light Fruity or DKNY Verbena/Light Vanilla. For men, McGill suggests Eternity by Calvin Klein, YSL L’Homme or Reaction by Kenneth Cole. Fragrance for love For a love interest, select a fragrance with a stronger impact to leave an impression. For women, consider Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel, OH, LOLA! by Marc Jacobs or Euphoria by Calvin Klein. For men, consider Allure by Chanel, Burberry Touch or The One by Dolce & Gabbana. Best scents for dinner Depending on your companion, for women, try Princess Night by Vera Wang or Sexy Graffiti by Escada. For men, try Kenneth Cole Black, Polo Black by Ralph Lauren or Gucci by Gucci. Popular fragrances For women: Justin Bieber Someday, Taylor Swift Love Struck, Viva La Juicy, Coach Poppy Flower, Chance by Chanel or Clinique Happy. For men: Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana, Aqua Di Gio by Giorgio Armani or Guilty pour Homme by Gucci. Choosing the right smell The best way to select a fragrance for a gift is to take note of what the person is currently using and their lifestyle, interests, hobbies, personality and occupation. — Gabriel Ramirez
126
Bakersfield Life
March 2012
YOUR ONE STOP FLOORING SOLUTION TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR HOME!
The total Flooring solution for commercial and all types of homes, apartments and government facilities! Hardwood compare elsewhere
HARDWOOD
STARTING AT
$2.99 SQ. FT.
AT $6.99 SQ. FT.
CARPET
CARPET ALL IN STOCK
NOW ONLY
$4.99 SQ. FT.
GRANTITE COUNTERTOPS
FREE LABOR/INSTALLTION
O
W NL Inst /B Y al AC $ led KS 2 PL ,59 AS 9 H
CARPET ONLY 65¢ SQ. FT (material only)
CERAMIC TILE WOOD LOOKING TILE *
*Call for details
TRAVERTINE STARTING AT $3.49 SQ. FT.
STARTING AT
$2.69 SQ. FT.
STARTING AT
99¢ SQ. FT.
AR TY YE AN 20 RR A W
AR TY YE AN 35 RR A W
8 COLORS TO CHOOSE FROM ONLY 99¢ SQ.FT.
HAND SCRAPED LAMINATE 12mm thickness $1.89 SQ. FT.
LAMINATE
DID YOU KNOW? Design, inspiration, and product information are at your fingertips. For the latest in fresh flooring ideas for your home, visit our HGTV Design Center.
YOUR ONLY LOCAL HGTV DESIGN CENTER
12 MONTH S Equal Paymen ts
YOUR DESTINATION FOR SELECTION AND SAVINGS! 6500 District Blvd. (Corner of District & Ashe Rd.)Bakersfield, CA • Total Flooring Solution LIC# 874947
WWW.MICHAELFLOORINGUSA.COM • 661.833-2444
All-New
CR-V
Turn Some Heads
Versatility has a whole new look.
The CR-V sports a bold, new look that’s bound to get noticed.
Anything but Ordinary
A redesigned grille and front bumper give the CR-V an impressive new style.
It’s All in the Details
Stylish design accents are everywhere, like 17-inch alloy wheels that come standard on EX models and above.
Your Best Deal on Hondas at Kern County’s Award-Winning Honda Dealer 4500 Wible Road
834-6632 Se Habla EspaĂąol
www.barberhonda.com
56
Years of Serving Kern County