Bakersfield Life Magazine October 2011

October 2011

www.bakersfieldlife.com

Making the

Transition Homegrown athletes moving up to the big time

Wall of Hope

Links for Life honors more than 240 breast cancer survivors

Fall Festivities

As the weather cools, the fun heats up

2012 New Car Guide SPECIAL SECTION

Sinatra would love it K.C. Steakhouse serves up solid food with nostalgic decor

FOLLOW THE PATH TO BETTER LIVING Enjoy the beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Home Sweet Home

Unwind in the luxurious spa.

Jog a few laps around the private park.

Take the kids for an afternoon swim.

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There are more ways to enjoy life and enhance the value of your home in a Castle & Cooke community.

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Stockdale Hwy. & Jewetta Ave. 661-829-1775

Visit our new website • CastleCookeHomes.com *Prices, amenities and square footage are subject to change without notice.

See sales associate for full details on all offers. CA DRE #01254164

Breast Augmentation $3,800 Tummy Tuck starting at $4,800 Rhinoplasty starting at $5,000 Limited time offer

Ask us for a list of patients in Bakersfield who would be very happy to share their experience with us.

Hard Work.

Honesty.

Dedication.

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Join us in celebrating your health as your best accessory. Enjoy a night of food and drinks, fun, and most importantly learn tips and techniques to improve your health for a long and vibrant life. Invite your friends for an evening out to laugh, play and learn. The event is free and open to women of all ages. Call 324-7070 to register.

Spirit Girls’ Night Out October 13, 2011 6:00 – 9:00 PM The Petroleum Club 5060 California Ave., 12th Floor Bakersfield, CA

The event will feature: • Health Screenings • Talk with local health care professionals • Demonstrations

• Educational Seminars • Music • Shopping • Interactive Displays

• Giveaways • Food • and much more!

We are making good health easier and more fun! We’ve joined forces with hospitals across the country to help women take action that results in better health through Spirit of Women®—where the motto is “good times create good health.” Treat yourself to some great experiences, helpful information, and exciting events focused on the health care subjects that matter to you. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it’s free!

O C T O B E R

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F E AT U R E S

46

Fall college athletes

Writer Stephen Lynch introduces us to a few local athletes who are gearing up for an exciting college sports season.

Meet Fresno State freshman quarterback Derek Carr; senior Cassandra Anderson, who plays volleyball at University of Florida; CSUB soccer star Sam Pena; and other standouts.

52

(661) 871-3556 CENTRAL

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(661) 325-4717 NORTHWEST

4750 Coffee Road

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6

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Bakersfield may have a mild fall, but there are plenty of fun pastimes to partake in this month. Make the most of this season by taking a trip to the Tule Elk State Reserve for an auto safari or attending the second annual Oktoberfest.

There’s always the traditional pumpkin patches and local apple orchards that are worth a visit with the family.

58

Links for Life

WIn honor of breast cancer awareness month, we pay tribute to our local survivors with the Wall of Hope. For 19 years, Links for Life has helped to educate the community with its programs, services and support. Find out how you can take part in this organization that helps women and families are affected by breast cancer because together we can make a difference

SPECIAL 2012 SECTION CARS

Check out the hottest cars for 2012 by exploring your options with our car guide. Whether it’s a truck, luxury, sporty, hybrid or commercial vehicle you’re interested in, check out what the local auto dealers have to offer.

Photo courtesy of UF Communications

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D E PA R T M E N T S

Photo by Jessica Frey

Page 42 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

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 See our full menu and order online at

sequoiasandwich.com

Thank you, Kern County for your continued support!

8

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

12 Up Front 13 Letters to the Editor 20 Happenings 22 It Manners A Lot 24 Kelly Damian 26 Real People 28 Dining Divas 32 Food and Wine 34 Why I Serve 36 Talk of the Town 38 Sports Legend 40 Education 42 Ladies Who …

67 Why I Live Here 68 Personality 70 Health & Wellness

74 78

Entertainment History

88 Trip Planner 92 Get out of Town 100 Snap!

109 The Last Word

Photo by Tanya X. Leonzo

Favorite Deli!

Photo by Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx

Bakersfield’s

TM

EDITOR’S NOTE

Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine 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 Advertising Director Bryan Fahsbender Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Editor Stefani Dias Features Associate Hillary Haenes Editorial Assistant Marisol Sorto Art Director Glenn Hammett Photography Felix Adamo Maria Ahumada-Garaygordobil Henry A. Barrios Casey Christie Jessica Frey Lois Henry Ed Homich Alex Horvath Kirby Lee Dana Martin Greg Nichols Tanya X. Leonzo Dan Ocampo Ashley Reyes Carla Rivas Aaron Ruth Contributing writers Vicki Adame Jennifer Bachman Allie Castro Kelly Damian Gene Garaygordobil Lois Henry Lisa Kimble Stephen Lynch Dana Martin Alyssa Morones Jeff Nickell John Pitre Gabriel Ramirez Paul Ulrich Interns Laura Sverchek Danae Jarrett Advertising Lupe Carabajal lcarabajal@bakersfield.com, 395-7563 Reader inquiries Bakersfield Life Magazine P.O. Bin 440, Bakersfield, CA 93302-0440 BakersfieldLife@bakersfield.com, 395-7492 On the cover Local athletes shine under the college spotlight.

Cover illustration by Glenn Hammett and Greg Nichols. Model: John Reyes.

10

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Fall brings athletic achievements, hot cars and zombie fun!

F

Fall is an exciting time of the year for many college students training for their sports.

It’s nice to see so many of our local athletes making their mark at colleges as close as Bakersfield to as far away as the East Coast.

In this issue, we introduce you to our local college athletes who are making a name for themselves at schools across the country.

Writer Stephen Lynch interviewed a few of those star athletes, including Fresno State’s Derek Carr, who is revving up the Bulldogs football team for a great season.

He also includes a long list of student athletes at other colleges.

Followers of local high school sports will likely recognize many of the names on our list. We included many students in our roundup, and it’s nice to see our local kids going after bigger achievements in college.

If you are a parent of an athlete whom we missed, please let us know by emailing bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com. Provide the name of your son or daughter, year in college, major, particular sport, position and a high-resolution photograph.

Also, be sure to include your name and contact information so we can follow up, just in case we have any questions.

Along with top athletes, we focused on some top vehicles this issue with our 2012 Car Guide.

This section is even bigger than last year’s in that it features a number of cars, trucks and motorcycles from different categories, including green, luxury, family, sporty and commercial.

There are plenty of choices here for the smart car shopper. Take a look, and let us know what you think.

Also get to know John Pitre, general manager of Motor City Auto Center, who sat down with writer Gene Garaygordobil to discuss the state of the local car industry. He even shares some predictions for 2012.

Now if you aren't ready to shop for a

Photo by Tanya X. Leonzo

October 2011 / Vol. 6 / Issue 1

car, but are more concerned with fixing up your current car, then you have to meet Sam Neira of Neira’s Collision Centers in Bakersfield.

Writer Allie Castro spent some time with the East High grad, who shared the interesting story of how he fell into his profession. Not only that, Neira shares a few tips from the garage and his favorite car.

October marks not only a time for fall fun, but it brings one of the coolest holidays of the year, Halloween.

If you ready for a scare, then check out Talladega Frights and its latest attraction, Zombie X, California’s only zombie paintball experience. Writer Dana Martin has the story on the local scream park's new interactive adventure.

I am a big zombie fan (anxiously awaiting the return of “The Walking Dead”) as are my boys, so I am definitely putting this event on my to-do list.

Happy Halloween!

Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 ogarcia@bakersfield.com

“Integrity isn’t Expensive, It’s Priceless” Dedication…

“To our agents and our clients” Loyalty…

“From our agents and our clients” Service…

“Unparalleled”

“We’re Not National, We’re Your Neighbors”

Louie Gregorio

Lea Bush

Cathie Paulovitz

Kathy Keener

Sonia Sides

Marvin Bush

Debi Roberson

Eva Martinez

Lezlie Chaffin

Tammy Gatson

Ronda Chaffin

Richard Rivera

Grant Armstrong

Jackie Putman

Beth Shanley

Penny Boeman

Dottie Patterson

Kym Plivelich

Scott Hacker

Karen Vanderhurst

Jon Vaughn

Rhonda Anderson

Diana Aronson

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Owner/Broker

UP FRONT It’s Named After

By Lisa Kimble

Tucked in the Kern River Valley 32 miles northeast of Bakersfield, Bodfish is home to just under 2,000 residents and named after one of its earliest settlers, California pioneer George Homer Bodfish.

The family name traces back to 13th century England. George’s parents Ebeneezer Bodfish and Nancy Fish hailed from Barnstable County, Mass., and came from old Puritan stock. They had nine children; George Homer was their fourth.

George and his siblings grew up on a farm, but unlike his father, George was more interested in milling and mechanics than farming. He moved to New Bedford, Mass., where he began a successful career in lumbering and shipping cargo. George first came to California by way of Cape Horn in 1849. After two years, he returned to New Bedford where he married Sarah Brent Luce, a widow and daughter of Louisiana congressman William M. Brent. They returned to California with her only son, Allen. The couple welcomed three children, Emma, George Fenwick and Jessen.

George began farming in the Santa Clara Valley near San Jose, and opened one of the city’s first mercantile businesses. By the late 1850s, the Kern River Mines Co. had lured miners like Bodfish to the Sageland area of the county. For the next few years, George worked the gold and quartz mines and established a gold mill at Keyesville on the river. The Keyesville mill was washed away in the

Wikipedia

Bodfish

flooding of 1861-62.

By 1867, he settled in the area near present-day Bodfish. He died two years later at the age of 48 of unknown causes. Beloved by all who knew him, citizens of the mining camp named the area after George. Legend says within hours of his death, his pet parrot also died. When his aunt learned of George’s passing, she insisted on returning him to England, but the miners relocated his remains under nighttime’s cloak of darkness. The Bodfish camp continued to grow, and in 1892, the town was chartered and a post office opened.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

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Letters to the Editor Praise from Frazier Park What a delight to see in the August 2011 issue of the Bakersfield Life a feature on some of the people up “on the hill” who are making a difference in our community. Many of us are grateful to Michelle Nosco and Steve Hill who work with and inspire the children of this community.

Every Thursday night, Michelle Nosco can be found playing her fiddle along with other accomplished musicians at the Coffee Cantina in Frazier Park. If you enjoy Celtic music, the group plays from 6 to 8 p.m. It’s free, so come on up!

— Margaret Cuss

August issue a keeper Olivia, We always enjoy Bakersfield Life, especially the positive tone that pervades the publication, but you outdid yourselves this month. The August edition is outstanding, especially the things to do around the county. It’s a “keeper.”

Thanks,

Short Takes why our city (and state) looks like a garbage dump. Here, all the time I thought it was the low-life’s of our society with no manners or caring that is contributing to our litter mess. Kelly should be ashamed!

Sincerely, — Carol Black

Bakersfield is great I was struggling with what to write in regards to Kelly Damian’s hurtful and damaging article about her new hometown. As a nine-year member of the Vision 20/20 Image Committee that has done work as making August the largest from the smallest blood donation month to replacing the Welcome to Bakersfield signs, I felt hurt and degraded.

I love Bakersfield Life and what it has done for our city and look forward to it each month.

Thank you for your hard work.

— David Gordon Assistant Director Bakersfield Museum of Art

— Sheryl & Lou Barbich

Crying OK, littering isn't It’s nice that an outsider has decided to “love (Bakersfield) because somebody has to”... what? But, come on Kelly (re: Bakersfield Life Magazine “An acquired appreciation for Bakersfield”), “throwing wadded-up Kleenex out of the car window, leaving behind a trail of tissues in the weeds along I-5”... geez! Maybe you can join the mayor’s cleanup crew next time.

— Fred Drew

Don't trash Kern I thoroughly enjoy reading Bakersfield Life every month, and this month I enjoyed reading Kelly Damian’s article in Up Front. She is a delightful writer with a sense of humor that is much appreciated since I am also a Bay Area transplant.

However, her report of crying “for much of the long drive from Oakland to Bakersfield throwing wadded-up Kleenex out of the car window, leaving behind a trail of tissues in the weeds along I-5” is totally a thumbs-down report! Now I understand

The Bakersfield Californian publishes Bakersfield Life magazine monthly. If you have any questions or comments regarding our magazine, write to us at Bakersfield Life magazine, P.O. Bin 440, Bakersfield, CA 93302, or e-mail us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com. We’d love to hear from you.

To submit material

Letters to the Editor: We publish all letters that are signed and deemed appropriate for our readership. Letters must be signed to be considered for a publication.

Please type or print your name, as well as an address and a daytime phone number.

E-mail should include the writer’s full name and city. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity and space. Please submit letters to Olivia Garcia, Editor, Bakersfield Life magazine, P.O. Bin 440, Bakersfield, CA 93302. For e-mail, send letters to the editor to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com.

Calendar events: Please submit information in writing to Marisol Sorto, no later than the first of the month, two months prior to the month in which the event will take place. Contact her at bakersfieldlife@ bakersfield.com.

To advertise

Please call Lupe Carabajal, retail advertising sales manager, at 395-7563 or lcarabajal@bakersfield.com or bakersfieldlife@ bakersfield.com.

Music Media Jam helps E.B. youth football About once every five years, Steve Flores and his Thee Majestics bandmates put together an event to raise money for a worthy cause in east Bakersfield.

This year’s version of the Music Media Jam, will not only bring together some of Kern County’s musically talented local media to perform with Thee Majestics, but proceeds will benefit young football players, said Flores, who has played bass and sang in the band for about 20 years.

“Having originated ourselves in east Bakersfield, we have a special connection to such programs,” he said.

Organizers hope to provide a sizable donation from the Oct. 15 event at Fishlips, to the East Bakersfield Sheriff’s Activities League youth football program.

“We’ve been talking about the event for about a year now,” Flores said. “We approached Olivia Garcia at The Californian for a potential group to benefit, and she suggested the football program.”

Garcia will also be one of the media people who have already committed to perform, Flores said. Other Kern County media people include: Jim Scott, KGET TV 17 anchor; Mike Hart, KERO 23 anchor/reporter; Jose Gaspar, KBAK and KBFX Eyewitness News reporter; his wife, Norma Ontiveros-Gaspar, Telemundo; Kevin Charette, KGET TV 17 weather anchor; CHP Officer Robert Rodriguez, KGET TV 17, traffic; Scott Meeks, KBAK & KBFX Eyewitness News, as well as a founding member of the Smokin’ Armadillos from Bakersfield; and Steven Mayer, a Bakersfield Californian reporter and awesome drummer, Flores said.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 15.

Tickets are $12 in advance, and $15 at the door. It will be a 21-and-over event “so you won’t be able to bring the kids,” Flores said.

For more information, contact Vallitix at 322-5200 or 888-825-5484 or visit vallitix. rdln.com.

— Gene Garaygordobil

www.BakersfieldLife.com

13

UP FRONT Short Takes

Charity celebrates Basque, Mexican cultures The Mendiburu Magic Foundation will host the sixth annual Pyrenees-Fiesta from 6:30 to 11 p.m. on Oct. 8 at the Bakersfield Firefighter’s Hall, 7320 Wible Road. It is the only special annual event and fundraiser organized by MMF, a local nonprofit organization.

The event co-chairs are Brian and Valerie Mendiburu, and they are Spanish-Basque and Mexican, so they decided to create a unique fundraiser to benefit the charity. This is a cross-cultural experience where the combination of spirits and cuisine create spectacular!

Guests are treated to chips and salsa, bread and cheese, soup and beans from Wool Growers Restaurant and great Mexican food from Jacalito Grill. The live music is provided by Thee Majestics, and there is a live and silent auction as well.

The foundation is a nonprofit organiza-

Brian and Valerie Mendiburu tion that was founded in loving memory of Nancy Ann Mendiburu on June 19, 2000.

The organization will directly contribute to the worthy community need, in particular to the following: helping children and families affected by any catastrophic or life threatening illness, community impact programs with an emphasis on positive youth devel-

opment and ongoing medical research for cancer.

“MMF will strive to accomplish these worthy tasks while appreciating the purpose of human life as being to serve, and show compassion and the will to help others,” said Brian Mendiburu, president of the organization. “It is easy to make a buck, but it’s a lot tougher to make a difference in life. In recognition of Mrs. Mendiburu’s admirable and courageous fight against cancer and personal compassion for others, the foundation will strive to put a face on this dreadful disease and effect healthy community strategy overall.”

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by through event co-chair Valerie Mendiburu at vmendiburu@mendiburumagic.com or 319-0355, or MMF member Emily Poole at 205-1063 and Emily@mendiburumagic.org.

Word on the Street

What was your first car and what do you remember about it?

“2001 Volkswagen Jetta and it smelled like crayons. I was always asked if crayons had melted in it.”

“1986 Toyota Cressida.

People made fun of it because it was old but it was top of the line in 1986.”

Elaine Vargas

Dustin Robinson

“1993 Toyota Supra.

The speedometer was broken and I never knew how fast I was going.”

“1984 Chevy Blazer and I fixed the whole interior with staples.”

“1997 Oldsmobile Cutlass. I was 17. It was brand-new but my friends teased me because it was an old lady car, but they still cruised in it with me.”

Annamarie Hernandez

Abel Torres

Heather Ferguson

“1987 Cougar. The driver's side window didn’t work and when I drove in a drive thru, I had to open the door to get my food.”

Ryan Ruiz

“2000 Mazda Protégé and I loved it because it was really good on gas.”

Dawntina Skinner

“1949 Chevy Bel Aire Hardtop. I was 18 and I bought it myself. A drunk driver hit me head on and totaled it.”

Jennie Becas

14

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

“1970-something Volkswagen Beetle. It was a stick shift and I didn’t know how to drive it; I had to learn the day I bought it.”

Brenda Treneer

OUR DOCTORS. YOUR NEIGHBORS.

From left to right Roxanne L. Aquino, MD Endocrinology Fernando Fan, MD Pediatrics Janet L. Barnes, RN Care Coordinator Cordell W. Watson, DO Family Medicine

You might run into them at the local farmers market, or at the park playing with their kids.

They’re your Kaiser Permanente physicians. And, like you, they’re proud to call Kern County home.

For more than 20 years, our physicians have been providing care in the area. And together with our specialists, nurses, and health educators, they’re dedicated to making sure you get the right care for you. You can visit your Kaiser Permanente health care team at one of our eight medical facilities conveniently located throughout Bakersfield.

To find a Kaiser Permanente facility near you or to learn how to become a member, call us at 661-334-2005 or visit kp.org/kerncounty.

Get out and get healthy!

Join us at our Get Fit Kern County 5K/1K Fun Run and Health Expo on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at 9 a.m. at our Ming Medical Office Building, located at 8800 Ming Ave. The course will run through Cal State University, Bakersfield. To register, go to active.com and enter keyword Kaiser Permanente and the date of the event.

kp.org/kerncounty

UP FRONT Short Takes

Cal State Bakersfield welcomes Latino authors Having not forgotten the spark of the urban Chicano movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s, the History Forum of CSUB welcomes guests Dr. Mario T. Garcia, professor of history and Chicano studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and Sal Castro, American educator and activist. The pair will speak at the Dore Theatre on Sept. 30.

The March 1968 event, when thousands of Chicano students walked out of their East Los Angeles high schools and middle schools to protest decades of inferior and discriminatory education in the so-called “Mexican schools” will be the topic of exploration for Garcia and Castro’s talk.

During these historic walkouts, or “blowouts,” Castro, a courageous and charismatic MexicanAmerican teacher, led and encouraged

the students to make their grievances public after school administrators and school board members failed to listen to them. The resulting blowouts ignited the largest and most widespread civil rights protests

by Mexican Americans in U.S. history.

Their talk, “Blowout! Sal Castro & the Chicano Struggle for Educational Justice,” will be based on their book of the same title. Russo’s Books is selling copies of “Blowout!” in its store and at the event. A book signing by Garcia and Castro will follow the discussion.

“Mario T. Garcia is regarded by many as the foremost scholar of Chicano history in the nation, and Sal Castro’s significance in Mexican-American history, and in the broader history of United States, will make the presence of both men a historic moment for CSUB. As CSUB is considered a Hispanic-serving institution, we are especially pleased to host this event during National Hispanic Heritage Month,” said Alicia Rodriquez, associate professor.

Doors open at 3:30 p.m. and the public is invited to join the CSUB community at 4 p.m. for this historic event. Admission is free and parking fees are suspended in Lots B, C and D during the talk.

For more information, contact the CSUB history department at 654-2166.

— Danae Jarrett

Jane’s Jewelers 9530 Hageman Road 661-587-6242 Layaways Welcome

Tueday through Friday 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sat 10:00am – 3:00pm • Closed Sunday & Monday

16

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Like us on Facebook

By the Numbers

Safe Halloween at the Kern County Museum

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

Safe Halloween 2011, 5:30 to 9 p.m. Oct. 30 and 31, Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $8. vallitix.com or 852-5000.

25

14

4,000

57

Number of years Safe Halloween has been operating

Number of kids who showed up last year

30

The number of acres that Safe Halloween encompasses The number of historic structures at the Kern County Museum

4

The number of hours the event runs a day

2

The number of days the event will run Source: Kern County Museum

Number of treat stations at Safe Halloween

3

The youngest age of children who showed up

www.LSEnglandDesigns.com

12

Oldest age of children who showed up

General Contractors Designing - Building Creating Your Vision

8

The cost of entry into Safe Halloween in dollars for children who are trick-or-treating

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

UP FRONT 25 random things you didn’t know about ...

Jeff Lemucchi The well-known voice who delivers the morning news for KERN Radio, News Talk 1180, 101.5 KGFM, and co-hosts Californian Radio on Smart Talk 1230, has a reputation as one of the most trustworthy news personalities in Bakersfield. Jeff Lemucchi, 55, grew up in Taft. He was a great trumpet player and had plans of making it big in Los Angeles someday, but college changed those plans. Lemucchi attended Fresno State, where he discovered his passion of radio. His easy-going attitude makes listening enjoyable. When he’s not in the studio working, Lemucchi enjoys playing the trumpet, reading, bicycling and cooking.

23. I like clothes

but my budget doesn’t.

24. I love being a news

guy and I appreciate my audience.

25. I’m glad to be a part of the Bakersfield community.

1. My last name is pronounced LemuKEE, not LemuCHEE, but

everybody in Bakersfield has gotten it wrong for years, so why fight it?

2. Yes, all of us Bakersfield LemuKEEs are related in one way or another.

3. People sometimes accidentally call me Tim (see #2).

4. One my favorite relatives is Dick Lemucchi. He’s a cool guy who reminds me of my dad.

5. My father, Hank, is my hero.

6. My mother, Memory, was strict but loving.

7. I love to cook. And eat.

8. I learned to cook by watching my grandparents. My paternal grandfather had the Italian dishes down!

9. When I was 12, I wanted to become a priest, but later decided that whole celibacy thing was a deal-breaker.

10. Which leads me to my wife, Jan — an awesome woman and my best friend.

11. Growing up Catholic is a real mind trip, but it’s the best thing ever if you embrace it and don’t fight it as an adult.

12. Jan doesn’t laugh at my jokes if they aren’t funny.

13. I’m afraid of heights but I love to fly. Go figure.

14. My favorite American city is San Francisco.

15. My favorite European city is Rome.

16. I have two daughters, Angi and Kim, who are wonderful 17. Jan’s kids, Megan and Patrick, make it easy to love their mom.

18. I love music.

19. I play the trumpet. And the radio. I’m better at the radio.

20. I spoil our dog, Tessa.

21. I’ve been known to cry at chick flicks. (Sorry, guys.)

22. I’m a stickler about punctuality.

18

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

daughters and awesome musicians.

HAPPENINGS

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

Can’t-miss events in October Kellie Pickler, 8 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 S. P St. Free with paid fair admission. 8334900.

Sun. 2

Fri. 7

Sat. 8-9

Sat. 8

Sat. 8

Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano, 7 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 S. P St. Free with paid fair admission.

833-4900.

First Friday Downtown, featuring live music, art openings, specialty shops, galleries and boutiques, artists will set up their artwork, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Arts District. 634-9598.

13th annual Via Arté Italian Street Painting Festival, with music, bellydancers, Claydoh the Clown, Saturday and Sunday, The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Free. 323-7219.

Annual Pyrenees Fiesta Dinner Fundraiser, for Mendiburu Magic Foundation. 6:30 to 11 p.m., Bakersfield City Firefighter’s Hall, 7320 Wible Road. $50 per person. Visit mendiburumagic.org.

The Bakersfield Magic Club Dinner and Magic Show, dinner 6 p.m., show at 7 p.m., Hodel’s Country Dining, 5917 Knudsen Drive. $35.

Reservations, 8711424.

Mon. 10

Thurs. 13 Thu. 13

Sat. 15

First annual Golf for Thought Tournament, hosted by Brain Injury Association of California; shotgun at noon, dinner at 5 p.m.

Bakersfield Country Club. $125 per person.

Visit biacal.org or 872-4903.

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience, 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $25 to $130. vallitix. com or 322-5200.

Medieval Fair in the Kingdom of Camelot, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Central Park at Mill Creek, 500 19th St. Free. 205-2923.

33rd annual CSUB Athletics Fall BBQ, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

CSUB Icardo Center. $30, pre-sale; $35, at the gate. gorunners. com or 654-3473.

Sun. 16

Wed. 19

Thu. 20-23 Fri. 21-23 Sat. 22

Carnales Unidos Car Club Show, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Carnival Lot, 1142 S. P St. $10 admission; children under 12 are free with paid adult. 340-0004 or 340-1207.

Billy Idol, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $42.50 to $80. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Disney on Ice: Pixar’s Toy Story 3, 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Rabobank Arena. $10-$45 plus fee ticketmaster. com or 800-7453000.

Mon. 24 Thu. 27 WEEK 5

WEEK 4

WEEK 3

WEEK 2

WEEK 1

Sat. 1

Sat. 29

American Red Cross Kern Chapter Annual “Tee for Charity” Golf Tournament, 11:30 a.m. shotgun start, dinner, awards ceremony and raffles to follow, Seven Oaks Country Club. 3246427.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” presented

by Bud Light, doors open at 10 p.m., show at midnight, Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $10. 324-1369.

20

Bakersfield Life

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Los Angeles Clippers, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $10 to $275 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

October 2011

Fall Home Show, 1 to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds. $7; $4 senior day (Friday) children 12 and under are free. ggshows.com or 1-800-655-0655.

“LifeSchool Musical,” presented by YMCA, 5 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road. $5. 8379622.

IT MANNERS A LOT

Friday night lights and fright night

O

By Lisa Kimble

October treats us to a bounty of autumnal delights — the whiff of cooler weather to come; the possibility of wearing a sweater before Thanksgiving; the sweet tooth's dream holiday and day dreaded by dentists and cranky neighbors that is Halloween; and homecoming floats and touchdowns.

These fall rituals we look forward to every year can also be spooky if incivility is in the end zone or comes to the front door dressed in costume. No one likes a poor sport, or worse yet, a sore parent shrieking in delirium and pantomime from the sidelines. And your little angel may trick or treat as a monster, but grill it into them the importance of acting like a lady or gentleman when they ring the bell. After all, it really does manner a lot.

By now, chances are everyone’s seen a parent or two behaving badly from the sidelines of a local football or soccer game this season.

They are easy to spot. Their face is as red as Red Vines, their verbal tsunami will surely lead to a stroke if they aren’t restrained by cheerleaders. Don’t be one of those parents, unless your goal is to humiliate yourself, your child and clear the bleachers around you in 10 seconds.

There is no grace in being a sore loser or an armchair quarterback from the first row of the stands. The late, great John Wooden said, “Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” If only parents had to sign an agreement to that effect before watching a game. Good sportsmanship on the part of our student athletes should go hand in hand with our own better fansmanship.

Temper your expectations and lock your ego in the car’s glove compartment. Respect the coaches, the referees, their players and calls. Don’t confront them outside the locker room with physical threats. And keep it clean, too. Hurling obscenities from the bleachers won’t help move the ball or change the score. Competition is healthy, getting ugly in one’s overzealousness is toxic! As easy as it is to lose ourselves and common sense in the blinding Friday night lights, unbridled enthusiasm should never include yelling instructions from the sidelines.

Lisa Kimble

Join kids and families around the globe to walk and bicycle to school in October!

October 5th, 2011 Bike Bakersfield invites the children, parents, teachers and community leaders of the City of Bakersfield to add to this growing number of people by walking or riding your bicycle to school on October 5th, 2011 for International Walk to School Day

Please visit us at:

WWW.BIKEBAKERSFIELD.ORG/SRTS

For more information call us at # 661-321-9247

22

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

One wouldn’t dream of walking into the classroom to tell the instructor how to teach or scold the student for not learning better.

Don’t do it from the turf! This isn’t the national championship. Don’t take it so seriously. Remember, it isn’t in the victory that we learn about ourselves, but in the losses and defeats. Emily Post wrote that if someone “can’t take sports with grace and good temper, then don’t go in for them.” Winners don’t gloat; losers don’t sulk!

As for fright night, when creepy costumes and wickedly bad behavior alike come crawling out of the woodwork, it shouldn’t scare homeowners into shuttering their house, cordoning off their yard with crime scene tape or leaving town rather than endure the endless stream of manner-less monsters.

This playbook is simple: be a respectful, appreciative trespasser and a kind and generous neighbor. If the lights are on, the candy bar is open for business. No costume, no candy. My cutoff is 14 and under. You may have been transported in from three zip codes away, but as cute as the toothless newborn Ninja in the stroller looks, even I know she won’t be having the Snickers for breakfast. No teeth, no stash. Adults with pillow linens need not apply. If you are politely denied, don’t threaten me, swear as you walk away or steal my Styrofoam headstones.

If you qualify, please don’t cut across the newly-seeded lawn or force your way into my entryway. We are expecting you. One knock or ring of the doorbell is sufficient. If the home looks darker than the Munster Mansion on Mockingbird Lane, assume no one is home and move on. When Halloween falls on a school night, the timing has a way of taking care of itself. Either way, after 8 or 8:30 p.m., consider calling it quits. And remember those other all-important words besides "trickor-treat" — "thank you"!

If you are the designated candy patron, save the homemade popcorn which hats for friends or the neighbors’ kids. Greet Buzz Lightyear and Woody cheerfully, even if they are part of a mob high on fructose. If you run out of loot, don’t start dolling out change, canned vegetables or leftovers. Let’s face it, this is a sweet tooth’s senior prom. It is no time to give a penny for their thoughts or cleanout the pantry!

KELLY DAMIAN

Fall is where I want to be

T

There is a man who runs along the fields that border my neighborhood. I don’t know if he is impervious to the heat or if he thrives on powering through the wall of nausea that goes along with running in 90-degree weather. Either way, I know that while I ease through the streets in a hermetically sealed 78 degrees, he will be under the sun, in the dirt, with a ring of water bottles in a holster around his waist, stubbornly standing up to the brutality of summer.

I marvel at the people who move about unprotected in the heat — those soccer players and bikers and field workers and street crews — some out there by choice, others by necessity. I admire their resolve, but when the battle is between me and 100 degrees, I forfeit. I blame it on my biology. I am just not made to withstand the Bakersfield summer. My ancestors are Eastern European and Irish, hence I am made for rain, woolen sweaters, galoshes and perhaps staring moodily into a pint. I flush so red when I run that concerned strangers have stopped to ask me if I'm OK. I am allergic to the sun. No joke. I once spent an entire trip to Maui nursing a red, swelling full-body rash.

For me summer is heavy and lonely.

The air feels thick as cream cheese and a sort of post-apocalyptic silence takes over my neighborhood. The swings at the park dangle from their chains, limp and unused, and in the heat of the afternoon the only sounds that interrupt the silence are the clicking on and off of air conditioners and, once in a while, a volley of barking dogs. Simple

errands become onerous: the car seat buckles burn my daughters’ legs and I spend entire trips to the grocery store incrementally adjusting the air conditioning until each child gets an equal blast of air to the face.

In some parts of the country, fall is a time to turn inward. The heavy clothes come out of storage and the weather begins its dismal march toward winter.

Not so in Bakersfield. Fall means it is time to come back to life. The leaves drifting off the trees are confetti. “Congratulations! You survived the summer!”

In the simplified, coloring book version of the seasons, spring gets all the credit for hope and renewal, but here in Bakersfield fall brings new life to the town. The kids return to the playground, the bike path starts to fill up, you can spend 20 minutes outdoors without turning into jerky.

If we were the subjects of a nature documentary, we would hear the narrator speaking in a whisper, “And so the humans emerge, tentatively after a long summer spent in hibernation.”

Photo by Alex Horvath

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24

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Prudential Real Estate helps make your dreams come true.

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Tap the power of Prudential Real Estate. With access to all MLS listings in one place, home buyers get a more complete online home shopping experience.

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It’s easy to see why a visit to prudential.com can energize your home search.

Visit us at: prudentialtobias.com

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www.PrudentialTobias.com 601-2145 Š2011 Prudential Financial. Prudential Real Estate brokerage services are offered through the independently owned and operated network of broker member franchisees of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. and Prudential are registered service marks of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and are used herein under license. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Sam Neira Sr. An unwanted high school class led to booming body shop business

Sam Neira Sr. in his body repair shop at the Bakersfield Auto Mall.

Getting to know

Sam Neira Sr. Q: What’s your favorite car?

A: My favorite car is a Mercedes. I drive a white Mercedes E350. When I drove it from their facility to our facility (a matter of blocks), I said, “This is a nice car!” As far as superluxury cars go, an Aston Martin. I just saw one yesterday and thought that is a cool car.

Q: What are the longest projects your shop works on?

A: A car can vary from a few days to two or three weeks. A roll-over can take a long time to fix, longer by the time you paint it and put it together.

26

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Q: What has been your favorite restoration project?

A: I’ve never been into restoration.

The cars that I had were beaters, but they were good cars. That was all I could get! It was a luxury just to get some wheels.

Q: What kind of work do you see most often in your shop?

A: In our East Bakersfield facility, we tend to see more of the heavyhits. Our auto mall location, probably 50 percent of our work is fender benders.

S

Photo By Casey Christie

REAL PEOPLE

By Allie Castro

Sam Neira Sr., president (though he hates the title), of Neira’s Collision Centers of Bakersfield, doesn’t come from a family of mechanics. His parents had jobs in the farming industry, so working on cars wasn’t exactly a natural progression.

However, Neira Sr. and his father always managed to fix their cars on their own, which perhaps gave him an advantage later in life when a misfortune turned into a successful career.

It wasn’t until high school when he was given the wrong elective class that Neira Sr. was really introduced to the idea of working on cars. “They didn’t give me the class I wanted first, so I wound up in auto mechanics. And I hated auto mechanics,” he said with a laugh.

But during his later years at East High School, Neira Sr. was placed into the body shop class that would be the start of his career, even if he didn’t know so at the time. “I was fortunate enough to

have a lady (she worked in the school cafeteria) who liked me, and her husband was a body shop man.”

“For my whole senior year she kept trying to get me to go to (her husband’s) shop, but I felt like I didn’t know anything and I was too embarrassed.”

On the last day of school when he went to tell her goodbye, “she told me she was really mad at me because I never went to see her husband. I told her, ‘Why would he hire me? I don’t really know anything,’ but she said, ‘He knows that. I told him to give you a job.’ When I went to see him he said, ‘I’ve been waiting for you all year long!’”

All that Neira Sr. has learned is what he’s gathered from others who did this type of work.

“I’m not where I am because I figured it out. I believe that God has provided the people to help me in every situation. Even to this day, I’m surrounded by people that help me. I drive to our facilities and look at what we do and I think ‘Wow.’ For me to take credit on my own is foolish.”

What once began as an error in his high school schedule has now resulted in a successful collision repair business, with two locations in town, and a team of more than 60 employees fixing around 300 cars a month. Here, Sam Sr. shares some of the wisdom he’s gained over 30 plus years of service, as well as some of his favorite car facts and tips.

Three tips from Neira’s garage

1

What’s really important to know is that almost all of your major repair facilities have contracts with insurance companies. If you’re completely lost, your insurance company is a good place to start asking for help. Insurance companies are looking after their customers’ best interest. However, in the end, it’s up to you to choose the services you would like.

2

When people pick up their cars, some people want to wax their cars right away since they just got back from the shop. But they shouldn’t give it wax until a month after it’s been repaired; that does harm to the paint when they wax it too soon.

When they get a car wash, and it says wax (in the package), they shouldn’t choose that option for a month.

3

Most shops give a lifetime repair warranty on workmanship for as long as the customer owns the vehicle. It is important to note that wear and tear (such as paint chipping from rocks hitting the car, or a tire needing to be replaced), are not the same as workmanship.

If the work is faulty, most shops will provide a lifetime workmanship warranty.

www.BakersfieldLife.com

27

DINING DIVAS

K.C.Steakhouse A night with the Dining Divas at K.C. Steakhouse. From left, Lois Henry, Sofie Zimmermann, Kim Jessup, guest Wendy Porter, Robin Noble and Sofia Ronquillo.

Dining back in time K.C. Steakhouse offers solid menu and decor that would make feel Sinatra right at home Heel ratings (out of 5) Atmosphere: Like stepping back in time!

Service: The Diva treatment you deserve.

Pricing: A little higher than most B-town joints but worth it Food: Deelish!

How to dress: Doll it up! If ever there was a place to channel Ava Gardner in a slinky black dress, this is it.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

The Divas went old school at K.C. Steakhouse! We reveled in its dark, cool interior and luxuriated in those diamond tuck, red leather chairs. Really, if Frank Sinatra were upright and living in Bako, this would be his hang out.

The basics:

K.C.’s is owned by Charlotte Carter and Terry Campbell. Carter has been operating the restaurant since 1997 and Campbell came aboard after the two married in 2003. But K.C.’s has been a popular fixture in Bakersfield since it first opened in 1939. It has been in its current location since 1967.

Address: 2515 F St. Phone: 322-9910 www.kcsteakhouse.net Hours: 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight Friday, 5 p.m.to midnight Saturday Happy Hour: 3 to 6 p.m. weekdays

Halibut

Pork chops

Kimmy on the wine: 2006 BV George Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $120.00 2007 Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $68.00 2006 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley $85.00 All of B-town’s faves are on the menu, representing Napa, Russian River and the Central Coast. Want just a glass? It’s there from $5-$8. In the mood for a bottle, your budget is covered starting at $14 a bottle all the way up to the “what budget?” bottles at $180.

Just sit back and enjoy!

Sofia on the starters: Sauteed mushrooms ($8.95), escargot ($9.95).

I intentionally fasted the whole day when I found out we were going to K.C. Steakhouse! When the starters were brought out I was ready to grub. Beans and salsa, a staple at every table, was a great start. The mushrooms were cooked in butter, nice garlic flavor, not too overwhelming. (Again I was hogging up all the mushrooms until another Diva gave me the evil eye!)

The Ahi Tuna was a Diva favorite, very fresh, nice cracked pepper flavor and the wasabi dressing had just the perfect bite!

The escargot … well it was my first time ever trying escargot, I told the Divas please don’t tell me what it is until I taste it. I loved the surprise even after they told me what it was. When I got home a snail was by my doorstep, a sibling maybe?!

Filet mignon choice of apple demi glaze or apple sauce, we’re talking comfort Sunday dinner food! Also included is your choice of soup or salad, beans and salsa, choice of baked potato, garlic mashed, cowboy potatoes or rice pilaf. It was a Diva feeding frenzy favorite!

Robin on the soups and salads: I love the simplicity of K.C.’s salads. Lots of fresh, crisp romaine and baby greens with four choices of housemade dressings. My favorite is the Italian with blue cheese crumbles, but a couple of my fellow Diva’s were crazy for the thousand island (who makes fresh thousand island anymore??).

I want to mention that the chicken Caesar salad is available at $16.95, and is a meal in itself.

The soup was pure comfort food! A rich broth full of veggies, pasta and beef, it could have come from Grandma's house.

Lois on the halibut ($26.50): Fresh, broiled, served with champagne dijon mustard sauce. Who knew the fish would be so great in a place knowns for steaks? It was absolutely succulent and yet again, I had to fight off the other Divas trying to sneak forkfuls off my plate!

Continued on page 30

Kimmy on the pork chop ($21.95): Where steaks reign supreme this Diva went for the pork chop. Pleasantly surprised, this hand cut bone-in loin chop was tender, juicy and bursting with flavor.

Served with Lobster www.BakersfieldLife.com

29

Continued from page 29

Sofie Z. on the filet mignon ($31.50) Petite filet also available at $26.95. I had the regular filet medium-rare as it should be. Served with cowboy potatoes that rocked! K.C.’s never disappoints. My filet was cooked perfectly, char-seared on the outside, moist, flavorful, and soft as butter on the inside. I can’t stress how much I love a great steak, paired with the right wine. Double YUM! Robin on the lobster (market price) I love lobster, and this one didn't disappoint! Australian lobster tail served with drawn butter — simple, clean, delicious. Also available on the menu; lobster with a petite filet mignon. (Both are sold at market price.)

Sofia on the steak and prawns ($34.95) Now I know why K.C. Steakhouse is such a Bakersfield favorite!

Oh I loved the steak and shrimp combo, the petite filet was delish, scampi tender and flavorful.

Sofie Z. on desserts (all $6.95) Butterfinger pie is a house speciality.

Ok, let’s see if I have this straight, ice cream, graham cracker crust, whipped cream and crushed Butterfinger candy bars, REALLY? Who would not love this pie? Trying to restrain myself to just a few bites, instead of devouring it, I became nostalgic for when I was young. For a few reasons: one, as a young woman I could have eaten half the pie and not gained a pound! How unfair is aging? And two, this is just one of the desserts that has always been a Bakersfield tradition. It did not let me down. Loved it!

Butterfinger pie

BOHO CHIC collection

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

www.shopchristines.com

4915 Stockdale Highway • 661-834-3068 Monday - Friday: 10-6 • Saturday: 10-5

The Friends of Mercy Foundation and Mercy Hospitals would like to extend our sincere thanks to the 119 members of the 2010/2011 Catherine McAuley Society Your gift of $115,000 funded technology and equipment for the Family Birth Center and Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit at Mercy Southwest Hospital; specifically a Medfusion Syringe Pump upgrade, 12 Neopuffs, a HeartStart NICU defibrillator, a Panda Infant Warmer and a SimBaby which is used for educational training of all caregiving staff at Mercy & Mercy Southwest Hospitals.

Photo by: Iger Studios

Pictured: Maureen Andrew, Antonette Anich, Rosemary Anspach, Graci Bailey, Patty Bass, Kay Beavers, Doreen Abrams, Alissa Buckey, Bebe Burke, Sharon Bush, Beverly Camp, Izetta Camp, Pat Campbell, Loraine Caratan, Patti Carroll, Sylvia Cattani, Yvonne Chambers, Becky Clark, Natalina Davis, Joan Dezember, Fern DiNicola, Joyce Downs, Partricia Eagleson, Judy Franconi, Catherine Gay, Sister Josie Gonzales*, Yolanda Griffiths, Jill Haley, Susan Hamilton, Jane Haupt, Mikie Hay, Jan Hefner, Patti Houchin, Debbie Hull, Cynthia Icardo, Margaret Johnson, Germaine Kimm, Karen Krausse, Mary Mazzei, Ronda Mazzei, Louise McCarthy, Kay Meek, Sister Judy Morasci*, Marjorie Nixon, Maria Paine, Mona Pankey, Margaret Philippe, Joan Pracy, Teresa Ramos-Alvarez, Lila Ray, Monique Roberts, Erika Romanini, Joellyn Schroeder, Sherry Stone, Sandra Serrano, Mary Lou Thomson, Jane Toller*, Wanda Venegas, Caroline West, Jeanette Smart, Theo Zaninovich.

Not Pictured: Marcelle Ansolabehere, Sandra Banducci, Betty Bartel, Maureen Beccari, Edith Bianco, Jennifer Borba, Donice Boylan, JoAnn Burris, Sister Cris Caballero*, Debbie Cappello, Jennice Cerrina, Jacqueline Coppola, Janet Craft, Kathy Crettol, Sister Sherry Dolan*, Jennifer Drake, Adel Durando, Gina Fanucchi, Chrissy Farr, Marilyn Fowler, MaryAnn Froehlich, Sheila Fry, Kathy Gargan, Marcia Giumarra, Lavonne Hall, Catherine Haupt, Cindy Jones, Shawna Judd, Lisa King, Diane Lake, Mary Lake, Didra Larma, Marianne Laxague, Theresa McNally, Cindy Meek, Ginger Moorhouse, Lily Nahama, Michelle Pisano, Patty Plank, Becky Porter, Phyllis Reischman, Mary Richardson, Suzanne Rogers, Alexis Roy, Sister Mary Hope Sanchez*, Barbara Sandrini, Sherron Sandrini, Florence Schroeder, Judie Schwebel, Annemarie Torrez, Jane Uhalt, Domie Werdel, Patty Young, Dominique Zaninovich, Tammie Zaninovich and Florence Ziemann. * HONORARY MEMBERS To become a member or for more information on how to join the Catherine McAuley Society, please contact the Friends of Mercy Foundation at (661) 663-6700 or www.supportfriendsofmercy.org

FOOD AND WINE

Red or white?

Choosing wine to pair with your favorite fall foods

T

By Paul Ulrich

The fall season brings a fantastic variety of seasonal foods to the table. I would like to offer some suggestions for wines to consider when some of these foods are at their best, fresh from the fields.

Figs are very versatile to use as an appetizer. They can be prepared on a crostini with caramelized onions and blue cheese. Or prosciutto wrapped figs with walnuts and gorgonzola cheese are a delicious option. I think both of these pair well with merlot, as its soft tannins and mouth feel complement the appetizers. I can recommend California merlot produced by Twomey, Decoy (by Duckhorn) and Pine Ridge.

Another great use for figs could be in part of a salad, such as a fig and chicken salad. I would enjoy this with a chardonnay that has a little bit of oak in it, such as those made by Morgan, Talbot, Ramey or Mer Soleil.

Mushrooms are also in season at this time. I know that mushrooms are available year-round, but those grown in the wild seem to have more of an earthy taste to them. You should be able to find them at some of the farmers markets now.

The natural wine pairing for mushrooms is pinot

noir. I really like the earthy nature of French pinot noir (Burgundy), but I do not like its high price. Pinot noir from Sonoma County or Oregon are probably the best choices for both complexity and value. Wines to look for include Freestone (by Joseph Phelps), Siduri, Loring and La Crema.

A simple mushroom crostini would pair well with these wines.

Stuffed mushrooms are another choice for an appetizer. In this case, the preference of wine is often determined by the stuffing and not necessarily the mushroom. A crab-stuffed mushroom would go better with a white wine than a red wine. A large part of the fun is trying different combinations of food and wine and determining your own preferences.

One of my favorites available now is fresh beets. They are often served roasted with cheeses such as goat cheese or served in salads. The best choice for these dishes is a crisp California sauvignon blanc; I really like Girard for its value and consistency.

Although crisp white wines do pair well with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, I often break this “rule” and drink cabernet with my roasted beets.

Apples are also at their best right now. They can be served as a starter, such as potato apple pancakes with smoked salmon. The wine that immediately comes to mind with apples is Riesling. I often hear the comment that Riesling is too sweet. I think this used to be true with California Riesling made in the past, but this has changed in recent years. I prefer German Riesling, as it has more acidity and is usually not sweet, and therefore an excellent “food wine.”

Photo by Think Stock

A crisp California sauvignon blanc would go well with this beet, goat cheese and wild herbs salad.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Three wines to pair with fall menus: Twomey merlot with fig appetizers, La Creme pinot noir with mushroombased dishes and a German Riesling with apples.

Granted there are some very sweet German wines. These are typically dessert wines, but can be expensive and are quite tasty. My favorite German wines are Mosel wines. Joh. Jos. Prum is a consistent producer of excellent Mosel wines. Ask your wine retailer for advice about the Riesling they carry. If you are having a heavy dessert with apples in it, I would suggest staying away from the dessert wines. The combination of the sugar in the wine and the dessert can be too overwhelming.

I think the most important point is that the food and wine should complement each other and enhance your enjoyment of your meal.

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33

WHY I SERVE

Captain Eric K. Frey U.S. Marine Corps Age: 30 Rank: Captain Assignment: Inspector-Instructor / Officer-in-Charge of Detach-

Photo by Jessica Frey

ment 2, Bulk Fuel Company A, 6th Engineer Support Battalion Stationed: Bakersfield with Detachment 2, Bulk Fuel Company A, 6th Engineer Support Battalion Hometown: Thousand Oaks I have been in the military for: 12 years in the military and 7plus as an officer in the Marine Corps. I first joined in 1999 to go to the United States Naval Academy. After graduating from the Naval Academy in 2004, I was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Marine Corps.

Why I joined: I went to the Naval Academy because I had always

wanted to become a Marine and for the opportunity to play football for Navy at the D1 level. From the Naval Academy, I chose the Marines because I saw the Marines as the elite service and identified with the warrior mentality of the Marine Corps. To me, the Marines are a lot like a football team: They stick together, they train hard and they fight even harder. Every Marine I have ever known has a little spark in their eye that is different from any other service. In the Marines, that is called "esprit de corps" which is Latin for "spirit of the corps." I saw that in the Marines who were stationed at the Naval academy and I wanted to serve with the best.

Why I continue to serve: In a lot of ways, the Marine Corps is

like an extended family… it is hard to leave. I enjoy leading and serving with Marines. I enjoy being a Marine and doing what Marines do. It is a different way of life, but when you have a certain mentality, it fits very well. I am a pretty big outdoorsman and adrenaline junkie, so getting to opportunity to be outside shooting guns and blowing things up is pretty appealing.

I have been deployed: To Iraq twice. January 2006 to October

2006 and February 2007 to October 2007.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

My favorite activity to do in Bakersfield is: Probably, going to different events at Rabobank – I have been to many really good concerts, and Condors games, and recently my wife and I went to the circus. They have a lot of good events there. Otherwise, it is probably going to eat at either The Padre or Moo Creamery.

My best military accomplishment or memory so far is: It was

returning home from my second deployment with my entire platoon and knowing that I had made it through two deployments and that it wasn’t just me coming back, but that all my Marines were coming back with me safe and in one piece.

Something I’d like to accomplish this year is: I am half way through completing my MBA and want to get that completed. I also want to further my training as a SCUBA diver and move up to the next level to become a Divemaster.

— Know a Kern County native who is proudly serving in the military? E-mail us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Why I Serve. Please include an e-mail, phone number and/or Facebook link to reach the nominee.

TALK OF THE TOWN

John Pitre General manager, Motor City Auto Center

J

Compiled by Gene Garaygordobil

John Pitre, general manager of Motor City Auto Center, has worked in Bakersfield since 1990, when he moved from Southern California, where he was born and raised. He got into the auto business after graduating from UCLA with a degree in economics. Pitre was hired by the Toyota Motor Corporation as a field service representative, and then became a part of the Penske Automotive Group, with which he moved to Bakersfield. He joined the Motor City Automotive Group when it purchased Penske, and became Motor City’s general manager in 1996.

When asked about the local automotive industry, here’s what he had to say:

What types of vehicles were popular for 2011?

Our most popular new car this year is a Buick Regal. It is new to the market and priced attractively around $25,000. Our most popular truck is a Sierra crew cab. This is Kern County’s vehicle of choice because it supports our active lifestyles.

What can people do to make sure their credit is good enough to get a car loan?

Credit is a flexible measuring stick, everyone’s file is subject to their own past performances. Recently, our lenders have taken a more liberal view of some past performance issues knowing that many people were caught overextended during the last couple years. Today, most lenders want to make loans where they are in an equity position (down payment) on a vehicle that makes sense for the customer, and that isn’t financed for longer than they expect to own it (no 84-month loans). If these criteria are followed, most people with steady employment are financible.

Are there any programs or options for people who have borderline credit?

Most buyers with credit scores below 620 will need some down payment and the following items: Proof of residency (phone or PGE bill), proof of income (recent pay stub or tax returns) and several credit references. This is just a guideline for most lenders.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Maria Ahumada-Garaygordobil

How has the local auto business been in the current state of the economy. Is it getting a little better?

The local automotive climate has been growing steadily since mid2010, mostly on the back of our local oil and ag growth. Many of our customers were affected by the building industry slowdown from 2007 to 2009, and didn’t need new vehicles. Today, those same vehicles are getting older and may need more work, so the new truck, car and SUV market is growing again.

With the new models coming out soon, what are your predictions for the industry in 2012?

I feel the industry is entering into the most exciting time in history.

Hybrid cars and trucks/SUVs, new propulsion systems and manufacturing worldwide make the next 10 years the most likely to change in history. Pent up demand also makes the next two years a great time for growth in our industry. The lack of sales in 2008-2009 didn’t translate to people not driving, just not replacing their cars. So today, those cars need replacement and we are ready with a great selection of new and certified cars and trucks.

Tell us about the new eco, crossovers or high-tech cars coming out for the first time: New technology is emerging daily: hybrids, two-mode hybrids, diesel-electric hybrids, alternative-fuel vehicles and eventually, Hydrogen fuel-cell hybrids. Vehicles must have range and capacity to be accepted and that is where the technology is currently being developed to meet customer expectations. Batteries are currently the most concentrated area of development.

Why is it so important to shop local in the car industry?

Is it myth that other areas, such as Southern California and Northern California, can get you better deals?

Shopping locally is important for a lot of reasons: our tax base is from sales tax (more than 20 percent of local tax revenue) and the first 1 percent of all sales tax is retained by the city where the business resides.

Local jobs are a function of local business, so someone you know or love is probably supported by a local business, and most importantly, local business provides more convenience and better customer service when you need it.

How has the Internet changed car shopping? Are people more prepared than ever when they are buying a car?

Internet shopping provides great information and a wide selection of products in our industry. The best thing about well-informed buyers is that it reduces the time needed to find what they want so we can be more efficient with their time. All dealers pay the same amount for their new cars, so there isn’t anything one dealer can do that another could do in terms of price, so the deciding factor is usually availability or service to most Internet buyers.

How did you get into the auto business?

I am the grandson of a truck mechanic and my grandfather and father taught me to love all things mechanical. It was a natural for me to combine my degree in economics from UCLA with my love of cars and trucks.

What do you enjoy about being in this business?

Bakersfield is a great car town and there are a lot of people like me, who love their cars. I love it here, what else could I ask for but to be in a great community, with a great company, working with cars and close to my family — it doesn’t get any better.

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37

SPORTS LEGEND

Lisa Kiggens (D’Amore) West High product made her mark in professional golf

L

Lisa Kiggens set lofty goals for herself starting at a young age. And the former Bakersfield resident almost always achieved them. Kiggens dominated the local women’s golf scene before she was even old enough to drive. After that, the driven and talented West High product took women’s college golf by storm before reaching the LPGA tour at the tender age of 20.

Kiggens went on to play professionally for a dozen solid years in which she racked up more than three-quarters of a million dollars in prize money. Her list of accomplishments is long and distinguished.

And still today, Kiggens’ name is synonymous with women’s golf in Kern County.

Without question, no women’s golfer to ever call Bakersfield home has accomplished as much in the sport.

Born Aug. 13, 1972 in Salinas Started playing golf at age 8.

Won the Kern County Women’s Amateur golf championship four straight years (19871990).

Still holds several records for the event, including lowest 54-hole total (216), and youngest champion (14 ½ years old).

The “Kiggens Rule” was established by the Kern County Women’s Amateur because she was so dominant. This forbade anyone under the age of 18 to play in the event. The rule was recently abolished.

Went to West High, where she helped the Vikings boys golf team win back-to-back state championships (1989-1990).

Won the 1990 women’s Junior World and

Bakersfield Life

Junior America’s Cup championships.

Finished second at the CIF-Southern California Golf Association girls tournament in 1990.

Lisa Kiggens facts

38

Photo by Ed Homich

By Stephen Lynch

October 2011

Selected by the American Junior Golf Association as the 1990 Rolex Junior All-American Honorable Mention.

After graduating from West that same year, she played one year at UCLA where she earned All-Pac-10 and first-team AllAmerican honors en route to helping the Bruins win the 1991 national title.

During her brief stint with the Bruins, she managed to tie the school record for individual wins in a career with three, including the PAC-10 Conference tournament. For her efforts, she was named the university’s freshman of the year.

made the cut 122 out of 271 times, had 11 top-10 finishes and amassed $750,123 in career earnings.

Claimed the only victory of her LPGA career by shooting a career-low round of 66 during the final 18 holes of the 1994 Rochester International at the Locust Hill Country Club in Pittsford, New York.

Made two hole-in-ones during her LPGA career.

Her husband Robb D’Amore proposed to her on live television on the ninth green during the Wendy’s Championship for Children in 2003.

After retiring from the LPGA tour, Kiggens spent three years as an on-course reporter and commentator on The Golf Channel.

Qualified for the LPGA Tour on her first attempt.

She was inducted into the Bob Elias Hall of Fame in 2007.

Played on the LPGA Tour from 19922003. During that 12-year span, Kiggens

Currently lives in Dublin, Calif., with her husband and their 2-year-old child.

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39

EDUCATION

Read to Succeed Brunch Compiled by Jennifer Bachman The Kern Adult Literacy Council has been serving Kern County since 1966. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for Kern County residents, by teaching individuals to read, write and speak the English language and by enabling them to become more productive members of our community.

Q & A with Donna Hylton, executive director Tell me a little bit about the event The Read to Succeed Brunch is the second largest annual fundraiser for the Kern Adult Literacy Council. There are 26 table captains who invite guests to sit at their table and make a donation to the Council. At the brunch, there will be a continental breakfast and guests will hear students’ success stories and hear how the council is using the funds raised.

What is the council’s goal? $100,000.

How much money did you raise at last year’s event? $50,000.

How can the public contribute?

Go to the Kern Adult Literacy Council website: kernalc. org. They can donate through PayPal or mail their donation to Kern Adult Literacy Council, 331 18th St., Bakersfield, CA 93301 or call the council 324-3213, and we can process their credit card. Of course, they can attend the event where there will be pledge cards available for donors to make a monthly donations or a one-time gift. Remember the council is always in need of volunteer tutors. If you love to read, call the council and we will get you started tutoring. The council has a free tutor training workshop every third Tuesday of the month, with the exception of July and December.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Felix Adamo

What is the money used for?

The Kern Adult Literacy Council has more than 3,600 students, 74 sites around Kern County with about 645 tutors tutoring year-round. The council offers four different free literacy programs in Kern County: General Educational Development (GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), Adult Basic Education and Family Literacy. All of our classes, as well as our one on one tutoring sessions, are free to the public. All funds raised go toward programs, supplies and textbooks.

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LADIES WHO‌

Amy Padilla Villalobos 32, dental hygienist

Susan Baldwin

58, advertising account executive, The Bakersfield Californian

Leea Wimbish

38, employed with the county of Kern

Photos by Jessica Frey

‌ Beat breast cancer These strong women overcame breast cancer and now have a new outlook on life.

Read how they each fought the battle and won as well as their advice for those currently battling.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Q

Age of diagnosis:

Wimbish: 33. (Wow! Five years out.

Woo hoo!)

Q

Carleen Swank 64, retired from J.C. Penney

How has breast cancer impacted you?

Villalobos: I was 29 years old when I found my lump doing a self-breast exam, and it was under my right armpit.

Wimbish: My diagnosis made me appreciate what I have. I look at my hectic life and crazy family (I have four kiddos: 21-year-old step-daughter who just went away to college, 9-yearold boy, 7-year-old girl and a 5-yearold boy) and feel blessed to still be here experiencing the craziness!

Baldwin: 41.

Swank: My faith has gotten stronger

Swank: I was 58 when first told of my cancer.

that healing is possible, and that a normal life can be expected.

Villalobos: Having gone through breast cancer treatment, I do have a better outlook on life. I try to be grateful for the simple beauty of life. I have a better understanding of miracles or blessings given from God. Baldwin: Breast cancer has been both the best and the worst thing that has happened in my life. The best thing because it has deepened my relationship with God, and the worst thing for obvious reasons. Without it, I may never have met some of the wonderful people in the medical and breast cancer community both here and in Los Angeles, some of whom will be lifelong friends. There have been many miracles, both big and small.

Q

What was your journey to beat breast cancer like and how did it affect you?

Wimbish: The journey of a cancer diagnosis is mentally devastating. Mine may have been a little darker initially because I was postpartum. I had just given birth days before. My first thought was I was going to die. That thought then led to all the things I would miss, like my kids’ high school graduations, weddings, grandkids, etc. I cried every time I had to talk about it. I couldn’t even say breast cancer. I was a mess. Then I got my battle plan and started chemo two weeks later and fight mode kicked in.

Ironically, I had people telling me they were inspired about my positivity and I was thinking inside my head, “I am gonna die.”

With time, those thoughts changed to I may die, but not today!

Swank: My journey was: this cannot be happening to me, to deep depression, and finally acceptance.

Villalobos: My journey with breast cancer was a bit of a challenge. I was stage 3, so it traveled into my lymph nodes. I decided to have a bilateral mastectomy. Soon after, chemotherapy was in full swing and after six sessions, I began to have problems breathing, a very high pulse and no energy. Many tests later, it was determined I have severe congestive heart failure and four chemotherapy’s short of completion.

Worried and very ill, I started medication for my heart. That month, in October, I got married; best part of the year. Radiation was 33 days with a week off due to

second-degree burns. Two years and two reconstruction surgeries later, I'm done. No detectable cancer and my heart failure has recovered almost completely. Planning a 5k run soon. My healing can only be a blessing by a higher power.

Baldwin: My relationship with God has been the most important aspect of surviving breast cancer. Initially, in 1995 I underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Due to a recurrence in 2007, I underwent additional surgeries and more aggressive chemotherapy and radiation, and daily injections to help increase white blood counts. This resulted in the loss of my hair, nausea and fatigue. There were weeks of what seemed like endless medical appointments, blood tests and diagnostic scans, and good and not-so-good days.

The emotional aspect was difficult due to feelings of isolation created from being in treatment.

Q

Susan Baldwin

How has Links for Life helped you?

Wimbish: Links For Life should be the first stop for anyone that is diagnosed with breast cancer. Seriously, the doctor’s office should hand out little pink cards that say: Step 1 — Go directly to Links For Life. They are the one-stop cancer shop. They have a wig boutique with private fittings, lots of resource materials and support groups that give you access to other survivors who can help you navigate Cancerland. Definitely needs to be the first step for anyone just diagnosed.

Leea Wimbish

Swank: By giving me much needed information and support from start to now.

Villalobos: Links for Life is dear to my heart because through them I met amazing women at events, meetings and during chemo that experienced firsthand many of the things I went through. I received my first wig there. I volunteer now occasionally. I was part of something big. In group meetings, we share our lives, funny stories, tears, hugs and we are fighting this together which, forms a great bond surviving cancer as one.

Baldwin: Through the years, Links for Life has been extremely supportive. It was such an honor to meet the founder, Carol Barraza in 1994, when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer and participated in the first Wall of Hope event. Jennifer Henry is always encouraging and helpful, and Susan Continued on page 44

Carleen Swank

Amy Padilla Villalobos www.BakersfieldLife.com

43

Continued from page 43

I cherish them. They got money together for bills, went to appointments, text me sending love by phone. Different people need different things, don’t be afraid to ask, “What can I do to help?”

Q

Baldwin: Breast cancer affects the entire family, and it’s important for family to educate themselves about your illness, so they will know how to anticipate your needs and know what to expect.

Ask family and friends to accompany you to medical appointments and treatments, so they can hear test results and recommendations by your oncologist firsthand and ask questions they may have. Just being there with hugs and a listening ear helps so much, and sending notes and cards to read and re-read on the challenging days are very helpful.

Escalante is a compassionate, patient angel who was so helpful when it was time to be fitted for a wig.

What can family and friends do to support their loved ones who are battling cancer?

Wimbish: My family and friends provided meals, laundry service, thoughtful cards and gifts. The love and support we received was amazing and made it easier to focus on healing and fighting. And who doesn’t love not having to cook or do laundry? The trick is to just do it and not wait for them to ask. A lot of people will say to call if you need anything, but you know people will never call and say “I really need a Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino with no whip…can you bring me one?” Hmmm … I should have tried that.

Sinaloa NT ESTAURA R N A IC X ME

Swank: Be understanding, give support, patience, and be willing to talk about it, not treat it like nothing is happening.

Villalobos: Families can show support by praying, sending cards, sending healthy food and gathering to watch funny movies helped me, but rest is required as much as possible. Keeping a positive and hopeful attitude too. There will be ups and downs, it is an emotional roller coaster. Pain, fatigue, nausea, it is hard for family to distract anyone from those things, but love and support is gratefully appreciated. My family was amazing. I love them very much;

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Keith Kountz

Derek Carr has earned the starting QB job at Fresno State.

Local high school athletes are taking their talents to the next level

Making their

mark Cassandra Anderson has become one of the top players in the country.

Photo courtesy of UF Communications

By Stephen Lynch

Throw a dart at a map of the United States, and it will likely land on or near where an athlete hailing from Kern County is currently competing at a fouryear collge this fall.

From Gainesville, Florida to Seattle, Washington and hundreds of cities and towns in between, former local high school football, volleyball, soccer, and cross country standouts are making their mark on the college sports landscape.

Some play in front of 80,000 fans on a weekly basis. While others attend Ivy League schools and play primarily for the love of the game.

But no matter how big the stage on which they perform, each is a source of pride for Bakersfield and their success shines a positive spotlight on the city.

Among those garnering the most attention this fall are several football players including quarterbacks Derek Carr and Cody Kessler.

Carr, the younger brother of New York Giants quarterback David Carr, is the starting signal caller at Fresno State. The younger Carr completed 10-of-12 passes for 114 yards during his freshman season at FSU before redshirting last year.

This season, he will lead a team expected to challenge for the Western Athletic Conference championship.

“I’ve been waiting patiently for my opportunity,” Derek Carr said. “And now that it’s finally here, I’m going to go as hard as I can, leave it all on the field and just leave all the rest of it to God.” Carr, who led Bakersfield Christian to Central Section Division V title his senior year of high school, wants to accomplish some things at Fresno State that his older brother wasn’t able to.

“David is the best quarterback to ever walk through these doors, to ever to step down to that stadium,“ Derek Carr said. “He didn’t get to finish what he started because he ran out of time being his senior year. He didn’t get to beat Boise State. He didn’t get to win a WAC championship. He didn’t get the win that bowl game. When family is involved, it means a lot in your heart to go out there and finish what they started.”

Derek Carr’s decision to attend Fresno State wasn’t solely about carrying on the family tradition though.

The school’s proximity to Bakersfield Continued on page 48 www.BakersfieldLife.com

47

also played a role.

“I’m just far enough away from home, but I’m close enough to be there in an hour and a half if I need something like my clothes washed by my mom,” Derek Carr said.

There are several other players from Bakersfield currently on the Fresno State football team including Matt Akers (Liberty), Ryan Boschma (Bakersfield Christian), A.J. Johnson (Highland), Ryan Skidmore (East), Patrick Su'a (Highland), Phillip Thomas (BHS), and Kyrie Wilson (Ridgeview).

And while they all chose to head north to play college football, Kessler and two other 2011 local high school grads decided to go south to USC. Kessler, who was The Bakersfield Californian’s All-Area Player of the Year for a second consecutive season in 2010, was recruited by several big-time college football powers.

But ultimately Kessler chose to play for the Trojans as did Stockdale’s Andre Heidari and Cody Temple of Liberty.

Despite being a true freshman, Kessler impressed Trojans’ head coach Lane Kiffin enough to earn the second string quarterback job behind third-year starter Matt Barkley.

Heidari has already worked his Cody way to the top of the depth charts Kessler as the team’s starting kicker.

But as Kessler, Heidari, and Temple all begin their college athletic careers this fall, Cassandra Anderson will be wrapping hers up.

Anderson, a former Bakersfield High standout currently at the University of Florida, is one of the top volleyball players in the country.

Last season, she was a second team All-Southeastern Conference selection after posting a league leading 1.27 blocks per set.

The 6-foot-1 middle blocker has led Florida to two SEC titles and hopes for an even bigger prize before graduating this spring with a degree in event management.

“We’ve made it to the Sweet 16 the past three years,” Anderson said. “This year, I definitely want to make it past that and get a (NCAA) championship.”

Though she made an immediate impact with the Gators as a freshman, Anderson acknowledges that the transition from high school to college is challenging.

“It was tough being so far away from home and not being able to see my parents as much,” Anderson said. “…Volleyball-wise the game is just so much faster in college than in high school.”

Anderson is one of a long list of former Drillers expected to play a key role for their college sports team this fall.

Another is CSUB women’s soccer player Sam Pena.

The junior forward has led the Roadrunners in goals the past two seasons.

Pena, who played two seasons at Golden Valley High School before transferring to BHS, is part of a growing trend of local prep athletes choosing to stay home to attend college.

One of CSUB’s other top players Kassi Massey is a graduate of Stockdale High School.

48

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Junior forward Sam Pena has led CSUB in goals the past two seasons.

Photo by Kirby Lee

Continued from page 47

“It was between Cal State, Metro State Denver, and the University of Wyoming,” Pena said. “After I saw all three I was kind of debating towards Cal State and Metro State. But Cal State did it for me. The girls were excellent. They were very welcoming. They were very together. No clicks. The school is small which I think is great…

It’s local which is really good. My support system can see me play.

My friends, my family and stuff like that. So it’s great.”

Pena believes the ‘Runners are well worth watching this season as they take the field under the direction of first-year head coach Melissa Phillips.

“Local fans should come out and support us because this is your university,” Pena said. “Regardless if people kind of don’t see it like that, Cal State University Bakersfield is your university. We are representing not only us but we are also representing the school and also the community and the city too.”

Cody Several other athletes from Temple Bakersfield are expected to shine on the college gridiron, soccer field, or in the gymnasium this fall.

Here is a sample of a few. A more comprehensive list is below.

Darci Nicole Smith (Liberty) - a senior defender for the South Carolina State women’s soccer team was an All-Great West Conference First Team selection in 2010. She accomplished that while earning a 4.0 grade point average.

Carolyn Ewert (Centennial) - Missed all of last season recovering a torn ACL injury but is currently leading the Navy volleyball team in kills and points per set.

Dalton Botts (Taft, BC) - Is the starting punter for the University of Miami (FL) football team.

Justin Cheadle (BHS) - Is third-year a starter on Cal’s offensive line.

Cami Privett (Frontier) - As a freshman is already seeing significant playing time for the UC Irvine women’s Soccer team. Scored a goal in just her third college outing against Hawaii. Recorded an assist the following game.

Ken Taylor (Garces) - The senior is a starting midfielder on the CSU Bakersfield men’s soccer team, which is favored to win the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation league title this year.

Continued on page 50

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49

Local athletes playing in college Football Ted Agu (Frontier): freshman, UC Berkeley; Linebacker Matt Akers (Liberty): junior, Fresno State; Defensive end Alpha Anders (Liberty): senior, Pomona College; Defensive line Jordan Austin (Highland): junior, Cal Lutheran University; Offensive line Doug Blacksill (Liberty): freshman, San Jose State; Offensive line Ryan Boschma (BCHS): sophomore, Fresno State; Tight end Dalton Botts (Taft, BC): sophomore, University of Miami-Florida; Punter Jack Campbell (Garces): senior, Cornell; Defensive line Derek Carr (BCHS): sophomore, Fresno State; Quarterback Justin Cheadle (BHS): senior, UC Berkeley; Guard Ryan Clanton (BCHS, CC of SF): junior, Oregon; Offensive line Jacob Cross (Centennial, BC): senior, Western New Mexico University; Middle linebacker Matt Darr (Frontier): freshman, Tennessee; Punter Trent Eskew (Liberty): sophomore, Sacramento State; Defensive line Shaun Grewal (Centennial): freshman, University of Dubuque, Wide receiver Andre Heidari (Stockdale): freshman, USC; Kicker David Hernandez (Ridgeview): sophomore, Willamette University, Defensive tackle Malik Henderson (Stockdale): sophomore, Whittier College; Running back Hank Hobson (Stockdale): freshman, Arizona; Linebacker Bryson Hodges (Golden Valley): freshman, Humboldt State; Running back Drew Howell (Tehachapi): sophomore, Oregon; Center Curtis Huge (Stockdale): junior; Central Michigan; Punter Matt Johns (Centennial): freshman; Pacific Lutheran; A.J. Johnson (Highland): sophomore, Fresno State; Wide receiver Shawn Johnson (Centennial): freshman, Montana State; Running back Bryson Keeton (Ridgeview): freshman, Nevada; Defensive back Cody Kessler (Centennial): freshman, USC; quarterback Kevin Kobliska (Garces): senior, Chapman University; Outside linebacker Loren Kolb (Taft, BC): junior, Harding University; Wide receiver Sam Layton (Garces) sophomore, Chapman University; Defensive back Will Mahan (BHS, BC): senior, Washington; Punter Princeton McCarty (West): senior, Idaho; Running back Craig McMahon (BHS): freshman, USC; Kicker Alex Mitchell (BHS): junior, Whittier College; Defensive back Pete Mitchell (BHS): junior, Whittier College; Defensive back Jared Norris (Centennial): freshman, Utah; Linebacker Jerry Pendleton III (Centennial): sophomore, Wisconsin-Stout; Offensive line Julio Regla (South): freshman, Sacramento State; Offensive line George Robbins (West, BC): junior, East Central University; Wide receiver Colton Schmidt (Liberty): junior, UC Davis; Punter Riley Scott (Garces): junior, Cornell; Defensive back Shane Sheets (Liberty): senior, Whittier College; Defensive line Cameron Shelton (Centennial, BC): senior, Fort Hays State; Defensive line Stephen Silva (Stockdale): junior, Montana State University Northern; Running back Ryan Skidmore (East): senior, Fresno State; Tight end Patrick Su'a (Highland): sophomore, Fresno State; Linebacker Cody Temple (Liberty): freshman, USC; Center Phillip Thomas (BHS): junior, Fresno State; Defensive back Tyler Thornton (Centennial): freshman, Azusa Pacific University; Safety Alex Trujillo (Centennial): freshman, New Mexico State; Offensive line Joel Turrubiates (BHS, BC): senior, Weber State; Offensive tackle Vince Van Horne (BHS, BC): senior, Middle Tennessee State; Wide receiver Tanner Webb (North, BC): junior, Humboldt State; Defensive back

50

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Zach Wells (Garces): freshman, Minot State University: Wide receiver Fred Wilson (West): freshman, UNLV; Defensive back Kyrie Wilson (Ridgeview): freshman, Fresno State; Linebacker

Men’s soccer Chris Akwaja (BHS): senior, Chico State; Midfielder Andrew Bussell (BCHS): junior, The Master’s College; Goal keeper Justin Finch (Garces): junior, CSU Bakersfield; Defender Jacob Garber (Stockdale): sophomore, Marymount College; Midfielder James Garces (Stockdale): freshman, CSU Bakersfield, Midfielder Eric Garcia (Liberty): freshman, CSU Bakersfield; Goal keeper Jay Lambert (Stockdale) sophomore, Marymount College; Defender Collin Norville (BCHS): sophomore, Tabor College; Goal keeper Cameron Riley (North): freshman, San Diego Christian College; Goal keeper Josh Rodenzo (Liberty): sophomore, Marymount College; Defender Chico Ruesga (Foothill): senior, CSU Bakersfield; Defender/Midfielder Ken Taylor (Garces): senior, CSU Bakersfield; Midfielder Tyler Williams (Centennial): junior, Point Loma Nazarene University; Midfielder/Defender

Women’s soccer Mariah Alvidrez (Liberty): sophomore, Fresno Pacific; Forward Kathy Barreto (BCHS): junior, Fresno Pacific, Forward Kellie Brakebill (North): senior, San Diego Christian College; Defender Liz Crowe (BHS): junior, Columbia University; Midfielder Tabatha Dickson (BCHS): freshman, Cal State Northridge; Midfielder Melissa Doiron (Stockdale): senior, Marymount College; Midfielder Ilyssa Espiritu (Stockdale): sophomore, The Master’s College; Goal keeper Natalie Flores (BHS): junior, Marymount College; Midfielder Michelle Granillo (Garces): sophomore, Marymount College; Midfielder Daisy Hernandez (Liberty): sophomore, New Mexico State; Midfielder Ellie Hight (Liberty): freshman, Southeast Missouri; Defender Brittany Hunt (Foothill): junior, Minot State; Midfielder Kassi Massey, (Stockdale): senior, CSU Bakersfield; Forward Ariel Meadows (Stockdale): sophomore, Marymount College; Defender Kandace Mireles (Liberty): sophomore, Marymount College; Defender Adrianna Monte llano (Sky View Academy): senior, Cornell College; Midfielder Adrianna Neal (Liberty): sophomore, Marymount College; Forward Kelly Nikkel (Frontier): sophomore, Fresno Pacific; Midfielder Sam Pena (BHS): junior, CSU Bakersfield; Forward Andrea Poeschel (Garces): sophomore, Marymount College; Goal keeper Cami Privett (Frontier): freshman, UC Irvine; Midfielder Sarah Reed (Garces): sophomore, Fresno Pacific; Midfielder McKenna Reiser (Stockdale), sophomore, Marymount College; Forward Yesenia Reyes (Ridgeview): junior, Cal State Dominguez Hills; Midfielder Chelsea Sewell (Centennial): sophomore, San Diego Christian College; Defender Erica Shelton (Stockdale): sophomore, UC Santa Barbara; Forward/Midfielder Darci Smith (Liberty): junior, South Carolina State; Defender Michelle Spinner (Stockdale): junior, San Francisco State; Midfielder Brittni Stansberry (Frontier): sophomore, Marymount College; Defender Riley Stevenson (Centennial): freshman, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Defender Kari Storslett (BHS): senior, University of Denver; Midfielder Sarena Underwood (North): freshman, Oklahoma Christian University; Midfielder Erica Villa (Stockdale): freshman, Fresno Pacific; Defender/Midfielder

Southwest Eye Care & Laser Volleyball Cassandra Anderson (BHS): senior, Florida; Middle blocker Caitlin Bernardin (Garces): freshman, Point Loma Nazarene University; Outside hitter Morgan Burt (Liberty): freshman, Vanguard University; Outside hitter Lindy DeGeare (Stockdale): senior, Texas State; Outside hitter Morgan Drake (Frontier): freshman, University of Mary; Outside hitter Elena Echeverria (Independence): freshman, UC Santa Cruz; Outside hitter Carolyn Ewert (Centennial): junior, Navy; Outside hitter Reisa Fessler (Liberty, BC): senior, Northwest Nazarene; Middle blocker Alyssa Gammel (Centennial): freshman, Virginia Tech; Outside hitter Danielle Gong (Stockdale): senior, CSU Bakersfield; Setter Lucy Heidrich (Liberty): sophomore, Ballarmine University; Outside hitter Lauren Holderman (BHS): sophomore; CSU Bakersfield; Libero Colby Joseph (Frontier): freshman, Cal State LA; Defensive specialist/Libero Kristyn Kirschenman (Frontier): freshman, Boise State; Defensive specialist Sarah Kurfess (Stockdale, BC): senior, San Francisco State; Libero/Defensive specialist Carly Maxwell (Centennial): freshman, Vanguard University; Setter Breanne Menees (Centennial): senior, Sacramento State; Defensive specialist Hailey Moore (BHS): sophomore, Southern Utah; Middle blocker Regan Richert (Centennial): freshman, Sonoma State; Middle Blocker Stevi Robinson (Stockdale): senior, Pepperdine; Libero Chelsea Rose (Liberty): junior, San Diego Christian College; Setter Justine Schoneveld (BCHS): junior, Biola University; Setter Ami Siemens (Stockdale): freshman, Fresno Pacific; Middle blocker Shelby Staab (Garces): junior, San Diego; Middle hitter Samantha Whittington (Frontier): sophomore, CSU Bakersfield; Libero Paige Woodward (Tehachapi): sophomore, Point Loma Nazarene University; Setter

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Men’s cross country Eayoall Atsbeha (Ridgeview, BC): senior, Rocky Mountain College Alfonso Cisneros (McFarland): sophomore; Chico State Alex Garcia (Ridgeview): freshman, Rocky Mountain College Zach Holt (BHS): sophomore, Holy Names University Brant Jones (Centennial): senior; Point Loma Nazarene University Cesar Mireles (Golden Valley, BC): senior, Rocky Mountain College Chris Whitaker (Centennial): sophomore, Point Loma Nazarene University

Women’s cross country Sarah Baker (BHS): freshman, Northern Arizona Jorey Braughton (Centennial): sophomore, CSU Bakersfield Claudia Cuevas (South): freshman, CSU Bakersfield Melisa Cruz (West): junior, CSU Bakersfield Amanda Duket (BHS): sophomore, CSU Bakersfield Monica Guzman (Garces): sophomore, CSU Bakersfield Gabrielle Lerma (BHS): freshman; Westmont College Cecilia Lopez (North): junior, CSU Bakersfield Cynthia Lopez (Stockdale): freshman, Azusa pacific University Tijerra Lynch (Ridgeview): freshman, Cal State Fullerton Diana Melger (Centennial): senior, CSU Bakersfield Katrina Parker (Liberty): senior, CSU Bakersfield Savannah Pio (Mia Costa): freshman; Cal Poly SLO Stephanie Powell (BCHS): freshman, Newberry College Yesmin Tanguma (Ridgeview): freshman, CSU Bakersfield Megan Thompson (Taft): sophomore, CSU Bakersfield

www.BakersfieldLife.com

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52

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Felix Adamo

A box of Golden Delicious apples at RB Family Orchard in Tehachapi.

fall Fun

festivities

By Allie Castro

Fall is finally upon us, thus starting the prelude to the holiday season. Though we may not have America’s typical fall weather, both Bakersfield and California have plenty of fun to offer by way of traditional autumn pastimes.

Continued on page 54 www.BakersfieldLife.com

53

Continued from page 53

Tehachapi apple haul There are several places in Tehachapi that offer you-pick apples, apples by the crate or any apple goodie one could possibly dream of. RB Family Orchard offers pressed on premises raw apple cider; dried apple rings; apple butter, apple syrup and chipotle sauce; and of course, apple crisps.

All of its products are made with apples from neighboring orchards, such as the you-pick orchard across the street at Kolesar’s Apples, which features several varieties of apples like golden delicious, red delicious and rome, to name a few. Pack a picnic to enjoy at RB’s outdoor eating area because you’ll work up an appetite picking your own apples across the street, but be sure to finish the day off with a fresh apple crisp.

Kolesar’s Apples, Highline Road at Casey Drive in Tehachapi. Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday to Sunday.

RB Family Orchards, 1437 Casey Drive, 822-5969. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Sept. 17 to Oct. 18.

For more apple options, stop by: Apple Shed, 333 E. Tehachapi Blvd., 823-8333.

Pulford’s Appletree Orchard, 19440 Highline Road, 822-5021.

Visit Tule Elk State Reserve for an auto safari Sector Superintendent Stephen Bylin said that early fall is one of the best times to catch a glimpse of the Tule elk in the reserve park.

But with a park that is more than 1,000 acres, Bylin said the best op-

JOIN THE GOOSE

tion for viewing the elk in their mostly untouched habitat is by auto.

For just the price of the parking fee ($8 per vehicle), groups can head to the reserve for a couple of hours of orientation and safari time with their guide. Bylin said to make sure to bring your binoculars and cameras for the best view. Also, be sure to dress in layers since the weather this time of year can be changeable.

Safaris are held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month on a first-come, first-serve basis. The reserve is located north of Gorman, south of Buttonwillow and west of I-5 via Stockdale Highway. For more information, call 764-6881 or 248-6692.

Take a look at fall’s finest colors Henry W. Coe State Park, located just northeast of Gilroy, is said to have some of the best colors and biggest plant variety, making it the perfect place to see the leaves change. The park boasts large maples and black oaks that will be sure to please come cooler weather. It is also the largest state park in Northern California, with more than 87,000 acres of open spaces.

The park is open to visitors year-round. The parking fee is $8 per vehicle, with camping and horse camping options available as well. To plan a trip, call 408-779-2728 or visit coepark.org for more details.

Celebrate Oktoberfest The Second annual Oktoberfest in Bakersfield will be held from 3 to 10 p.m., on Oct. 1 at Stramler Park. Come out and enjoy traditional Bavarian entrees, as well as plenty of German beers, live polka bands, games, prizes and more, all for a good cause.

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

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Tickets are $5 pre-sale; $10 at the door; or purchase a party package for $35 pre-sale; $40 at the door. Tickets are sold at Lengthwise Brewing Co. and Hooters. This event is for the 21 and older crowd. All proceeds benefit M.A.R.E. Riding Center.

Photo by Casey Christie

Trip to the coast for more you-pick goodness

Banducci’s Family Pumpkin Patch offers lots of family-friendly activities.

The Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo has plenty of fall-themed weekends planned for its guests. Each week during the fall, the Apple Farm features a different theme, such as “Week of Figs” and, of course, “Week of Pumpkins.” This means there are plenty of opportunities for tasting the ingredient of the week, and a fun activity to boot.

The grounds have the Millhouse gift shop, which houses home and garden items, as well as daily samples of apple cider and popcorn.

There’s lodging if you’re longing for a weekend of cooler weather.

Prices vary by activity. Call 800-255-2040 or 805-544-2040 to book a suite. For more information, visit applefarm.com.

Continued on page 56

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Pick your pumpkin Beginning Oct. 4, Banducci’s Family Pumpkin Patch will offer visitors the chance to peruse for the perfect pumpkin, or take advantage of the other family-friendly activities they offer. Admission is free to the pumpkin patch, but for an additional price, guests can take a pony ride or wind their way through the corn maze.

Banducci’s is located at 10747 Taft Highway, hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For an entire day that both kids and parents will love, head to Murray Farm’s “Big Red Barn” location. Guests can pick their own fruit and vegetables, visit the Critter Corral Petting Zoo (that features llamas, peacocks and miniature horses, among other animals). This location offers the popular weekend hayride, a 30-minute tractordrawn wagon ride that covers acres full of crops and plants.

The Big Red Barn is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily all year long. For more information call 330-0100.

Murray Family Farms is a popular spot for locals and travelers.

Photo by Casey Christie

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

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57

COMMUNITY

A

Links for Life Wall of Hope

s October begins, it is hard to believe that Links for Life has been assisting women and families facing breast cancer in the Kern County community for the past 19 years. This past fiscal year we were able to provide the following services: • 5,271 phone calls fielded by the office • 171 walk-ins were assisted • 441 mammograms and 814 ultrasounds funded in Kern County • 285 fitted for wigs and head covers • 63 needle biopsies (11 positive diagnoses) • 20 received bras/prosthesis • 20 to 25 women utilized support group services monthly • 28 survivors and family members attended the yoga class • 17,818 were educated on breast health and Links for Life services As I begin my sixth year as the executive director of Links for Life, it is amazing to see the growth of our programs and services, volunteers and staff. The passion that this group has for the women and families facing breast cancer in Kern County is immeasurable! I feel so blessed to work with such a remarkable team.

We are a warm and compassionate organization that assists women and families when they are diagnosed with breast cancer. In our wig boutique, we do not just assist women diagnosed with breast cancer we assist ANY woman who has lost her hair while going though cancer treatment.

Links for Life’s mission is to provide an organization to benefit people and families affected by breast cancer, challenge each Kern County woman to be aware of her breast health and promote support for those affected, and to educate the general public about breast health.

58

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

One of Links for Life’s main goals is to insure that every woman in Kern County is able to receive breast cancer screening. Last year, with the Cancer Detection Program, “Every Women Counts” state program frozen, Links for Life allocated additional funds for screening services.

With those funds, we were able to diagnose nine women with breast cancer. After having a diagnosis of breast cancer, they were able to receive breast cancer treatment. With the community’s support, we helped save the lives of these nine Kern County women ... THANK YOU! We also provide wigs for cancer patients, breast health seminars, yoga classes, college scholarships at Bakersfield College and CSUB and a support group for breast cancer survivors and their families.

We fund these programs and services through different annual events throughout the year. In October we have our “Paint the Town Pink” activities. The eighth annual Hockey-Thon with 24 hours of hockey played will again take place March 17, 2012. On May 19 and 21, 2012, Links for Life will host our 19th annual Sharyn Woods Memorial Pro-Am Golf Tournament & Gala at Seven Oaks Country Club. Along with private donations, bequests, grants, and outside sponsored events, Links for Life continues to assist the women and men in Kern County with breast and cancer services.

All the money raised in Kern County stays in Kern County.

Thank you to all of the donors, sponsors, volunteers, and staff for all you do for the women and families of Kern County.

Sincerely, Jennifer Henry Executive Director Links for Life

Links For Life Christine Abbott

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Brenda Bailey

Grace Abaya

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Stephanie Baker

Irene Aguirre-Walz Cancer Survivor 4 years

Susan Baldwin

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Cancer Survivor 17 years

Sarah Bentley

Jacare Bethea

Cherryl Biggar

Wall of Hope

Elaine Anderson-Dieter Cancer Survivor 25 years

Mary Barnard

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Kelly Bishop

Margaret Arakelian

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Mary Barron

Norma Armendariz Cancer Survivor 3 years

Dolores Barton

Mimi Audelo

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Rosie Azevedo

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Beverly Baxley

Kelly Bendert Sanchez

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 35 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Kathleen Bloom

Lynda Boleschka

Irene Bonner

Donna Borntreger

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 14 years

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Carolyn Bradford

Jacquelyn Bradley-Sanders

Nancy Brady

Charlotte Brandt

Linda Brenner

Stana Bright

Evonne Brown

Judy Buechler

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Teresa Burns

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 24 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 20 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Joyce Butcher

Julia Calvillo

Mary Camara

Mercedes Camarillo

Jeanne Cantrell

Darlene Casey

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Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Eleanor Chavez

Arlene Chuman

Kelly Clanton

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 25 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Lee Cole

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Cancer Survivor 19 years

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Cancer Survivor 17 years

Nettie Collins

Bonnie Coats

Linda Conner

Betty Cotton

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 19 years

www.BakersfieldLife.com

59

Links For Life Jean Coulter

Connie Cowan

P. J. Cribbs

Mary Cruse

Virginia Cummings

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 12 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 22 years

Linda DeCant

Betty Denter

Joy Dixon

Joy Doepel

Marilyn Dorer

Kathy Douglas

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Betty Eaves

Cancer Survivor 24 years

Edyne Frassinelli

Cancer Survivor 25 years

Marlene Elbert

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Diane Fuller

Cancer Survivor 20 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Rosenda Gonzales

Suzanne Gonzales

Cancer Survivor 20 years

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Barbara Ellis

Ginger Empey

Alicia Linda Dunham

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Sandy Foster

Irma Frank

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Debbie Gallington

Beverly Gambini-Cagle

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Chris Gibson

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Linda Glenn

Cathy Goemer

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Rose Garcia

Cancer Survivor 45 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Lola Goodrich

Karen E. Gould-Churchwell Cancer Survivor 9 years

Virginia Graham

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Carole Gribben

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Kristi Hatak Grohs Cancer Survivor 2 years

Natalie Grumet

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Margaret Hadley

Betty Jo Haflich

Pricilla Hallmark

Paige Halterman

Brigette Hamblet

Coleen Gundzik

Jennie Haberlander

Diane Haddock

October 2011

Julie Followwill

Pam Dowell-Daft

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Bakersfield Life

Susan Ewens

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 25 years

Julia Davis

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 19 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Elsa Joyce Daves

Cancer Survivor 33 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

60

Juli Coulthurst

Wall of Hope

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 32 years

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Links For Life Linda Hartt

Jennifer Hennick

Sharon Hennick

Wall of Hope

Diana Hernandez

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Cancer Survivor 2 years

LaNelle Howell

Marguerite Hughey

Helen Huntalas

Dona Hurt

Diane Heston

Cancer Survivor 25 years

Olga Jacobs

Mary Holland

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Karla Jadwin

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 24 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 39 years

Cancer Survivor 21 years

Linda Jones

Marian Jones

Rhonda Jones

Linda Jordan

Karen Kelley

George Ann Kerley

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 39 years

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Germaine Kimm

Debbie Kiser

Jill Knight

Armida Laddaga

Ginger Lane

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Cancer Survivor 12 years

Saundra Loman

Esther Lozano

Phyllis Luckey

Mary Luna

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Stephanie Lynch

Dorothy Hollingsworth Cancer Survivor 5 years

Carol Jett

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Rebekah Khan

Arlene House

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Dianna Jones

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Cheryle Kileen

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 12 years

Barbara Lechtreck

Marie Lehmann

Marguerite Lofy

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Judith Malerich

Jan Maltone

Gwenetta Marshall

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Arnita Matthews

Casey McBride

Carolyn McCleod

Ann McCright

Naomi McCutcheon

Dolores McNeil

Ethel Miksits

Geraldine Miles

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 22 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 25 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 19 years

www.BakersfieldLife.com

61

Links For Life Carolyn “Scottie�

Miller

Karen Minear

Sharon Moore

Bronwyn Mullen

Mandy Muth

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Terri Nixon

Edna Norwood

Sue Norwood

Joann Nunn

Amy Padilla Villalobos

Terry Page

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Mary Jo Pasek

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Jane Pratt

Cancer Survivor 14 years

Jo Ann Payne

Cancer Survivor 17 years

Sharon Rea

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Marguerite Pechin

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Melanie Reed

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Deanna Rhoades

Dorothy Richard

Gerry Richardson

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Lavonne Schuetz

Barbara Scott

Joyce Shankle

Cancer Survivor 11 years

62

Jeanette Miller

Wall of Hope

Bakersfield Life

Cancer Survivor 21 years

October 2011

Cancer Survivor 57 years

Cancer Survivor 12 years

Nancy Pelton

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Joan Reedy

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Cancer Survivor 3 years

Dolores Pena

Jennifer Peters

Cancer Survivor 22 years

Linda Regier

Karen Neukom

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Louise Palmer

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Mesha Phillips

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Kay Restad

Lisa Rey

Barbara Newkirk

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Alene Parsons

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Coral Poole-Clark

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Billie Reynolds

Cancer Survivor 15 years

Cancer Survivor 11 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 13 years

Patsy Romero

Angela Ruffino

Vickie Sanford

Joy Schmidt

Diane Schuetz

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Aimee Shaw

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Chris Sheehan

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 12 years

Lynne Sill

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 19 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Barbara Smith

Kay Smith

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 22 years

Links For Life Patricia Smith

Rita Smith

Lydia Soto

Wall of Hope

Debra Lynn St Louis

Ethel Struble

Kala Stuebbe

Jan Sublett

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 18 years

Cancer Survivor 31 years

Cancer Survivor 6 years

Ellen Svendsen

Joan Tanner

Bonnie Tomlinson

Fran Thompson

Isabel Thompson

Joyce Tillery

Kathy Torres

Cancer Survivor 27 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Cancer Survivor 20 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Susan Trihey

Linda Turner

Georgia Twist

Malise Unruh

Mary VanBlake-Shoaf Cancer Survivor 3 years

Shirley Vance

Cancer Survivor 23 years

Arminda VanWinkle

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Carol Warkentin

Dianna Warner

Sandra Watkins

Cancer Survivor 10 years

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 14 years

Cancer Survivor 8 years

Tricia Velasquez

Dorothy Vokolek

Heather Waites

Lora Warfield

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 39 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 4 years

Cancer Survivor 1 year

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 7 years

Marilyn Watson

Jean Wedeking

Catherine Wemhoff

Debbie Williams

Julie Worthing

Janet Yacopetti

Jeff Hayward

Cancer Survivor 5 years

Cancer Survivor 19 years

Cherie Shoemake / Marilyn Thomas Daughter / mother Cancer Survivors 17 years / 25 years

Cancer Survivor 9 years

Cancer Survivor 14 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Thelma Reed / Tammy Shipley Mother / daughter Cancer Survivors 27 years / 7 years

Cancer Survivor 2 years

Cancer Survivor 16 years

Carleen Swank / Leea Wimbish Mother / daughter Cancer Survivors 5 years / 5 years

www.BakersfieldLife.com

63

Links For Life

Wall of Hope

October events Yoga class for breast cancer survivors and their family members every Monday in October except the 31st, 6 p.m., Links for Life office..

Oct. 1: Lace’n It Up, kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Tehachapi. Registration begins at 8 a.m. at Yogurt Junction and ends at the Tehachapi Senior Center with a breakfast. To register for the Lace’n It Up event go to the Links for Life website www.linksforlife.org

Dolores Romero / Millie Medina Sisters Cancer Survivors 2 years / 9 years

Jeanine Wanlass / Yevette Peterson Mother / daughter Cancer Survivors 4 years / 4 years

Donna Wheeler / Jeannie Smith Sisters Cancer Survivors 15 years / 9 years

Oct. 3: Lace’n It Up, kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Bakersfield.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m., events at three locations: Liberty Bell, Park at River Walk and Kern County Department of Public Health. To register for the Lace’n It Up event go to the Links for Life website www.linksforlife.org Oct. 4: Links for Life Breast Cancer Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Links for Life office.

Oct. 5: Pamper Yourself in Pink at Christine’s & LoLo’s, Stockdale Fashion Plaza.

Four local salons will be providing mini services for the guests along with food, drinks and shopping! Join all the fun for $20 to benefit Links for Life. Call 8343068 to make your reservations, limited space.

Cynthia Lake / Mary Lake Daughter / mother Cancer Survivors 4 years / 5 years

Pricilla Bacus / Ede Pacaldo Cousin-in-law / cousin-in-law

Ella Simpson / Connie Simpson Mother-in-law / daughter-in-law

Cancer Survivors 10 years / 10 years

Cancer Survivors 11 years / 5 years

Special thank you to Karla Jadwin, Jadwin Photography for the Wall of Hope photos.

To be included in next year’s Wall of Hope, please call Links for Life at 322-5601.

Sapphire Sponsors

Emerald Sponsors

Ruby Sponsors

64

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Oct. 13: Pink Passion for Fashion – Fashion Show & Luncheon, DoubleTree Hotel 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more info and to reserve your table call 322-5601.

Oct. 13: Bingo to benefit Links for Life in Tehachapi, Senior Center, 6 p.m. Call 8050098 for more information.

Oct. 19: Bunco, hosted by Christine’s in the Stockdale Fashion Plaza, 6:30 p.m. Call for reservations, 834-3068.

Oct. 20: 7 p.m., CSUB Women’s Pink Soccer game, CSUB vs. UC Davis, main soccer field.

Oct. 25: Kisses for Cures Bingo Night, hosted by Victoria’s, 6:30 p.m. Call 6658300 for details and reservations.

Oct. 27: Color Me Mine, A Fun LadiesOnly night of painting, food, and silent auction. For more details and to make your reservation, call 664-7366.

The Friends of Mercy Foundation and Mercy Hospitals would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Charter Members of the William Howell Century Club

Fifty-two local men chose to follow in the footsteps of one Bakersfield pioneer leader, William Howell, Sr. Their cumulative gift of $52,000 funded the purchase of new Advanced Visualization Software for CT Scanners at Mercy and Mercy Southwest Hospitals. This new technology will enable full CT-profusion at both campuses supporting Mercy’s stroke program.

Photos by: Iger Studios

To become a member or for more information on how to join the William Howell Century Club, please contact the Friends of Mercy Foundation at (661) 663-6700 or www.supportfriendsofmercy.org

Charter Members 2010/2011

Jeff Andrew Kevin Andrew Robert Anspach Antonio Beccari E.G. Berchtold Leonard Bidart Bill Bush Javier Bustamante, MD Don Camp, Sr. Mike Campbell Andy Cantu George Cappello Arnold Cattani Anthony Ciarolla, MD Romain P. Clerou, MD Alfred J. Coppola Jr., MD Steve Del Papa Ray Dezember William DiNicola, MD David Dougherty, MD Bill Farr, MD Mike Gardner Barry Goldner Mike Hair Harvey L. Hall Chris Hamilton, MD Bruce Haupt Steve Haupt Warren Haupt Edwards Hopple Gary Icardo T.J. Jamieson Russell Judd Ray Karpe Brandon Kennedy Jay King Donald R. Montano, DDS Ron Pimentel Lloyd Plank Dick Porter Randy Richardson Joseph Roberts Bob Severs Robert Sheldon, MD Harry Starkey Jerry Starr Marv Steinert Doug Weber John Young, MD Jon Zaninovich Joe Ziemann Jeremy Zoch

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2012 TM

New Car Guide

2011

Enjoy your first month, compliments of Jaguar

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2012 TM

New Car Guide Contents Lease or buy?

Luxury Vehicles SUVs and Crossovers Sport Green/Economy Trucks Car Care

4

6 8 14 20 24 28 30

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Bakersfield

MITSUBISHI

SAVE $10,100 IN FUEL COSTS OVER 5 YEARS!!*

*Charge time - 7 hours *Source - fueleconomy.gov

FUEL ECONOMY 126 CITY/99 HIGHWAY** **Compared to the average vehicle. ** Source - fueleconomy.gov

The All New Mitsubishi i

The 100% Electric Mitsubishi i. Powered by MiEV

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Prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Prices good through close of business on date of publication.

THE 2012 MAZDA3 Skyactiv The Mazda3 5-Door provides dynamic performance with stunning good looks to match. And when it comes to fuel economy and safety, it leaves no room for compromise.

Come in and test drive a Mazda today!

43 MPG*

*up to 43 MPG

“Must finance through Mazda Capital, not all applicants will qualify. 12,000/year and $0.15/mile over.$0 Security deposit.

www.bakersfieldmazda.com 3201 Cattle Drive Bakersfield Auto Mall (661) 328-8000

Prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Prices expire at close of business on date of publication. All offers are on approved credit.

Leasing or purchasing What suits my needs best?

The question on how to finance a new vehicle is a complex set of projections that only the owner of the vehicle can predict. Some considerations to keep in mind are: 1. How long do I want to keep this car?

2. Will my needs change over the next four years due to marriage, children, job change, etc.?

3. How long did I keep my last car?

4. How many miles do I drive per year? Will this change over next four years?

5. Do I modify my car or just leave it stock? (Wheels, lift kits, even window tint may determine your preference.)

6. What payment can I afford? Include insurance and gas in this equation.

7. Do I qualify for low interest loans?

8. Does my current car have equity? Should I use it toward a lease or purchase?

9. What technological changes are on the near horizon?

Hybrid, diesel, hydrogen, electric?

6

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

These are just a few of the questions you should answer before you decide to purchase or lease. The difference between the two finance methods is minimal until the end of the lease, and then your options are to turn in the car in average condition with all original equipment installed and working, buy the car for the balance due (residual value) or trade the car in if there is equity. Mileage is pre-determined on the lease, so don’t budget less than you actually drive per year (15,000 mile per year is standard).

If you plan to keep a car for more than four years, you might just purchase to begin with and not consider a lease.

However, many people like to have that “new car security” (full warranty, reliability, no repairs) and find that having a 5 to 10-year-old car isn’t what they really wanted. So be honest with yourself when answering the questions above, you will end up better off than if you just make a rash decision you have to live with for years.

One other important consideration is advanced propul-

sion system cars and trucks (hybrids now, hydrogen in the future).

It may be best to not assume that today’s technology will meet your needs three to five years from now, and leasing is a great hedge against change as the residual is pre-set at the time of commencement. If the technology change makes today’s car less desirable, in three years, just drop it off and start again with the newest (and safest) technology.

Ask your new car dealer to show you a side by side comparison of leasing verses buying. Once you have chosen your next car, the answer may be in the numbers, but don’t forget to tailor the lease to your lifestyle and driving habits.

— John Pitre, general manager at Motor City Auto Center

I HELP SAFE DRIVERS SAVE 45% OR MORE. Megan Hillis Insurance Agent (661) 327-3486 4200 Easton Dr #1 bakersfield a032669@allstate.com CA Lic: 0E86586, 0C03205

Insurance and coverages subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Actual savings will vary.

Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

7

2012 NEW CARS

Luxury vehicles BMW 5-Series The 5 Series legacy is one of incredible performance, timeless style, and countless innovations. New for 2012, a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine will supplant the 3.0-liter six-cylinder in standard models.

Power will increase slightly from 240-hp to 245-hp, while torque gets a more significant increase rising from 230 lb-ft to 258 lb-ft.

Plus, all of that torque will come on at just 1,250 rpm. Also standard are an electronically adjustable performance suspension, high-performance brakes, and a head-up instrument display.

Infiniti M37 The Infiniti M37 is designed to provide exhilarating power with every drop of fuel used.

Exclusive WEL technology continually tunes valve lift and time to give quicker engine response and a broader torque curve with enhanced economy. Choose from the 3.7-liter V6 or the 5.6-liter V8 with Direct Injection Gasoline and feel the surge of up to 420 crafted horsepower.

Hyundai Sonata MSRP from $19,695 MPG 24 city/35 highway Multiple air bags. Reinforced unibody design.

Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System and advanced braking systems, all standard are reasons why the Sonata received a 5-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. Dominate the competition in both horsepower and MPG, whether you choose the 2.4L GDI or the 274-HP 2.0L Turbo, each delivers class-leading horsepower, as well as, MPG. Get more than you bargained for with Blue Link ™. Steering-wheel mounted audio, phone and cruise controls, 400-watt Infintiy® AM/FM/XM®/CD/MP3 audio system with HD Radio® technology. Along with Bluetooth® hands-free phone system and Touchscreen navigation.

8

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Mercedes-Benz C250 MSRP $35,220 base MPG 21 City / 31 highway Higher performance with better efficiency.

Advanced safety with sportier handling.

Fresh styling with timeless quality. And a racy cockpit and reasonable price tag that put driving fun within easy reach. C250 drivers have their cake and eat it, too. With a multifunction steering wheel and convenient central controller, the C-Class puts audio and vehicle settings as close as your fingertips or your voice.

Lexus IS 250 F-Sport Package MSRP $37,780 MPG 19 City/27 highway Sport cars come in many styles, but the IS 250 F-Sport package is a combination of a four-door sedan, performance car, luxury car, and style. The F-Sport model has custom 18” alloy wheels, larger rear-spoiler, limited edition colors, and a look that says you have great taste! Drive a IS 250, IS 250 Convertible, IS 350 or IS-F today at Motor City Lexus.

Cadillac CTS The new front grille on Cadillac’s excellent midsize car “the CTS” is raising eyebrows!

Premium finishes that have been added to the 2012 CTS to better highlight the combination of frame and mesh. Plus, the Wreath & Crest logo on the Grille now features brighter colors and raised ridges. It’s a very attractive front end that grabs attention. Plus, the 2012 is lighter and has a more powerful 3.6 liter V6. The CTS is available in a Sedan, Coupe, or a Wagon.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

9

2012 NEW CARS

Luxury vehicles Volvo S60 MSRP $31,150 base MPG 20 city/30 highway Sculpted to move you – both physically and emotionally – the S60 has an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms.

With the best handling and most powerful engines in its class, the sportier and more dynamic S60 is still an unmistakable representative of Scandinavian design at its best.

Virtually all the lines were penned to carve out the “coupe with four doors” profile. With its world-first Pedestrian Detection technology, (with full auto-brake) Volvo continues to prove safety is its top concern and is a best-in-class in three categories (fuel mileage, 0-60 in 6.8 seconds and 5-year warranty).

Chrysler 300 Performance tuning meets American luxury in the 2012 Chrysler 300C SRT8.

The 6.4L HEMI V8, sends 470 hp and 470 ft-lb torque to the pavement. A four-cylinder mode and active exhaust provide a 25% improvement in fuel economy. With an unmatched appearance and extreme power, the 2012 300C SRT8 is at home on the red carpet, racetrack and everywhere in between.

BMW 7-Series The BMW flagship is effortless luxury and tremendous power. And with countless ground breaking driving and entertainment options, innovations abound. Indisputably stylish and powerful—the BMW 7 Series continues to raise the luxury benchmark. And with the new 2012 740i Sedan’s striking silhouette, finely detailed interior and innumerable technological innovations, you’ll want to experience the unparalleled sophistication for yourself.

10

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

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BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! CERTIFIED P R E - O W N E D CHEVROLET

BUICK

GMC

Standard Certified Pre-Owned 2-Year or 30,000 Mile Maintenance Plan See dealer for details.

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­

2012 NEW CARS

Luxury vehicles Mercedes-Benz E350 MSRP $49,400 MPG 17 City/24 highway Bold new styling, class-leading safety and trailblazing technology in a full-size sedan with a history of defining the future. The dual overhead cam V6 is both efficient and exhilarating, while the 4MATICTM all-wheel drive adds to your confidence and control of driving during any season or road condition. You can rest comfortably knowing an advanced system of 9 air bags offering 11-way occupant protection comes standard in the E350.

12

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

2012 NEW CARS

SUV/ Crossover GMC Terrian MSRP $24,500 base MPG 22 City/32 highway Aggressive styling gives Terrain a bold look worthy of its professional-grade heritage. It’s MultiFlex seating provides unexpected versatility for passengers and cargo. Convenient steering-wheel-mounted controls let you access the radio, Bluetooth and cruise control with the touch of a finger, and it’s the only SUV in its class with a Rear-Vision Camera standard on all models. V6 – 4 Cylinder & AWD are available on this new model.

Jeep Unlimited Wrangler Rubicon Jeep Wrangler is known for its ability to push boundaries. With outstanding improvements in both performance and fuel economy, your adventure can last longer. 40 percent more horsepower.

10 percent more Torque. 26 percent faster at 0-60 mph. All with 10 percent better fuel economy.

Ford Edge EcoBoost MSRP $27,640 MPG 21 City/30 highway Your wallet won’t mind skipping the gas station a few more times with the four-cylinder power with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, and you won’t mind the power with 240 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque tucked inside this crossover. A sport-tuned suspension helps it deliver the engaging steering and spirited handling you crave in the corners, while maintaining a comfortable ride overall. A crossover that does all this – with inspiring handling and sportier looks than ever? Must be the new Ford Edge Sport.

14

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Volvo XC90 MSRP $38,400 base MPG 16 city/23 Highway Modern and elegant appearance, the XC90 is a spacious and flexible crossover that combines the passenger car’s handling and comfort with excellent get-you-there ability and flexibility. Seven seats are standard and all passenger seats can be folded to create a fully flat loading floor. With All-Wheel Drive and Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system make it possible to detect slowly building skids at an early stage, the XC90 is a perfect vehicle for those drives in the mountains and foothills of Kern County.

Subaru Outback MSRP $23,195 base MPG 22 city/29 highway The Swiss Army knife on wheels, the Outback will handle whatever task you throw its way. With both four- and six-cylinder power, standard all-wheel drive, and a remarkably space-efficient four-door, five-passenger wagon body, the Outback isn’t designed for serious off-roading, but can acquaint you with the wilderness and won’t be daunted by deep snow. The horizontal layout of the SUBARU BOXER® engine combines balance with power and efficiency while the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) automatically senses steering and braking inputs to help keep the vehicle on the driver’s intended path.

Mercedes-Benz ML350 MSRP $48,990 base MPG 16 City/20 highway Five-star safety and five-star comfort meet in a mid-size luxury SUV that redefines every word in “sport utility vehicle” With a legacy of ground breaking safety and earthembracing performance, the ML350 offers PRE-SAFE(R), a Mercedes-Benz first that can detect conditions suggesting a collision or rollover is imminent, then adjust the front seat belts and even close the windows and sunroof moments before a collision. Impeccably detailed and immeasurably delightful, the ML350 cabin is innovative, intuitive and indulgent.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

15

2012 NEW CARS

SUV/ Crossover Nissan Juke SL Smart. Aggressive. Compact. The all new sport cross is like no other Nissan.

The turbocharged 188 horse power engine delivers serious boost when you need it and sips fuel when you don’t, while an innovative All- Wheel Drive system turns power into grip.

Infiniti QX56 The engine of the QX was designed to be both more powerful and more efficient. The 5.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline V8 features dual overhead cams, 32 valves and sophisticated valve control that enhances throttle response as well as economy. The QX boasts 400 horses and 413 lb-ft of torque that delivers an impressive 8500 lb towing capacity and the ability to pass with confidence.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 The Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes capability to a new level, by giving driving enthusiasts extreme performance on street and track.

The all-new 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology delivers an estimated 470 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.

The most powerful Jeep vehicle ever runs from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed governed at 155mph, and includes a four-wheel anti lock Brembo braking system for outstanding driving performance in all conditions.

16

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Lincoln MKX MSRP $39,415 MPG 19 City / 26 highway Industry-first customer-focused technology, uncompromising craftsmanship, top safety ratings, best-in-class horsepower and outstanding fuel economy make the 2012 Lincoln MKX a standout among premium midsize utilities. The industry-first MyLincoln Touch™ experience, powered by Lincoln SYNC®, creates a whole new way for customers to interact with digital and vehicle technology. It replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way buttons like those found on cell phones and MP3 players.

Cadillac SRX The new 2012 Cadillac SRX has a larger V6!

The new 3.6 -liter V6 is expected to deliver 300 horsepower and 260 pound feet of torque. This is just one of the upgrades that Cadillac has made. Other improvements with the new 2012 edition of the SRX include Bluetooth connectivity on all of the SRX Models plus available heated steering wheel and new machined-face finish 20 inch wheels.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Performance is more than horsepower or torque. It’s more than sophisticated technology, or eco-friendly engineering. Performance is about a driving experience. Step into the well-appointed interior and you’ll see that no detail was too small for the attention of our engineers. Whether you’re firing up the engine with the available One-touch Start/Stop engine switch, speaking a voice command to the standard Fuse hands-free Link System or browsing your MP3 collection, the Sport makes it look easy.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

17

2012 NEW CARS

SUV/ Crossover Cadillac Escalade Features 3 distinct body styles and the Escalade Platinum models are the highest expression of the brands design, luxury, and technology! Some examples include magnetic ride control, LED head lamps, the world’s fastest acting suspension, Interior leather wrapped instrument panel, center storage and door trim. Plus, the luxury is further enhanced with heated steering wheel, heated and cooled cup holders, and DVD Entertainment system.

BMW X5Drive 35i Premium Yes, its on-road performance is something to behold. But even parked the X5 continues to impress. With built-in features like an iPod interface, privacy glass, and package options for cold weather, technology and more, the X5 Premium will be the first SAV that personally caters to you. BMW’s new X5 xDrive 35i now boasts a brand new inline-6 engine that is the first BMW-bred six cylinder to combine revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, High Precision direct fuel injection, and twin power turbo charging.

The result: an X5 with incredibly spontaneous responsiveness, exceptional power, and remarkable efficiency. With a single twinscroll turbocharger it will perform 0-60 in 6.4 seconds and features an output of 300 hp and 300 lb-ft torque, at the same pace of a V8

Chevrolet Equinox The 2012 Chevrolet Equinox features lots of room, comfort, and value! These 3 factors make this Chevrolet Midsize SUV a Hit! The equinox has among the longest wheelbase in it’s class. (The wheelbase is the distance between the front and the rear axles and helps determine a vehicles interior volume.) Room and comfort are both extremely important for the new car buyer. The Equinox will make that long trip much more comfortable. Leg room, space to spread out in and plenty of room for what you have packed are all great reasons to visit 3 Way Chevrolet and see the Equinox!

The Equinox has styling flair inside and out, handy features, and solid refinement. The 4 Cylinder Equinox averages 32/22 MPG. On Star is standard in every Equinox model.

18

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Mazda CX9 Equal opportunity enjoyment. The 7-passenger 2011 CX-9 spoils driver and passengers alike with striking design, spacious, well-appointed interior and spirited performance. Meet the Crossover vehicle that’s as pleasurable as it is practical. The CX-9 achieves the impossible by combining incredibly nimble road manners with the spacious interior. Its sporty styling is backed up by a fuel-efficient 273-hp 3.7liter V6 engine.

BMW X3 SAV Whether it’s running errands around town or traversing windy mountain passes, the X3 handles the road with ease and superior traction. Re-engineered to have more space, more power and more features than before.

With spacious, luxurious seating for up to five adults, a powerful 240-hp engine, and for the first time ever, an 8-Speed Automatic Transmission, it’s the best X3 yet. Once you step into the BMW X3, you’ll immediately notice the spaciousness. A higher seating position gives you more shoulder room, legroom and headroom—ensuring an even more comfortable ride

GMC Acadia MPG 17 City / 24 highway Engineered with the understanding that life is unpredictable. With flexible interior space, class-leading cargo capacity, Bluetooth connectivity and ONSTAR, the Acadia is designed to help you take charge of your day, whatever direction it may take. Not only does Acadia seat seven or eight passengers, it accommodates them with generous leg room, shoulder room and head room. When it comes to choices and suiting your needs, Acadia offers SLE (cloth), SLT (leather) and Denali models with optional AWD.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

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2012 NEW CARS

Sport Buick Regal Turbo MSRP $28,860 MPG 18 City/28 highway From the moment you start it up, it’s all about you. Relax in an interior ergonomically designed for the driver. The Regal Turbo features a 2.0L Turbocharged Direct Injection Engine that delivers 270hp for an estimated 0-60 mph of 6.7 seconds.

With seating for five, this sport sedan offers the comforts that turn driving into excitement.

Chrysler 200-S Convertible Proof is in the details. Chrysler 200 S has a unique exterior, interior, sporttuned suspension, wheels, and more.

It’s available power-folding hard top, and heated performance seats with suede inserts let you make the most out of every adventure.

Subaru Legacy MSRP $19,995 base MPG 23 CITY / 31 highway Throw the Legacy into a corner, and forget everything you think about driving a spacious sedan. With its unique design advantages, the Legacy doesn’t sacrifice athleticism to give you a roomy and comfortable interior.

The only five-passenger midsize sedan to offer all-wheel drive standard, the Legacy holds tight to every inch of asphalt. Every passenger enjoys a spacious cabin with generous room to make things comfortable, including dual-zone automatic temperature controls and a 10-way adjustable driver’s seat.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Mercedes-Benz SLK350 MSRP $54,800 base MPG 20 City/29 highway Formula 1-inspired looks and raceinspired performance converge in a compact, two-seat roadster with retractable hardtop. A new-generation V6 outperforms in every way, packing more punch but gentler to the earth and sky. The SLK350 offers the world’s first variable transparency retractable hardtop, from clear to dark at the touch of a button. A new 302-hp 3.5 liter V6 combines numerous advances to deliver more torque over a wider range of rpm.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

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2012 NEW CARS

Sport

Chevrolet Camaro Happy 45th Anniversary Chevrolet Camaro! The Camaro is proof that some things definitely get better with age. As one of the best looking models in 2012, Camaro also takes command of the road in handling and style. The base V6 delivers crisp performance with either the sixspeed automatic or six-speed manual, and brings in a highway rating of 29 mpg. The Camaro offers great safety features like six standard air bags, anti-lock brakes and dynamic stability control.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Nissan GT-R Press the Nissan GT-R’s accelerator and you feel more than raw power. The 530-hp twin turbo V6 may be massive in strength, yet its highly refined, even earning ULEV-11 rating. At the heart of the Nissan GT-R is an innovative system that lets you redefine your driving experience with on-the-fly adjustment of the transmission, suspension and stability control. Challenging tradition at every point, the GT-R combines all of Nissan’s best thinking.

BakersfieldDrive Dealer Directory Find the car you’ve been looking for at the price you want.

Shop local for the best deal!

Bakersfield Chrysler/Jeep 3101 Cattle Drive 661.832.3000

Nissan of Bakersfield 2801 Wible Road 661.829.4319

Bill Wright Toyota & Scion 5100 Gasoline Alley Drive 661.398.8697

North Bakersfield Toyota Scion 19651 Industry Parkway Drive 800.639.9022

BMW of Bakersfield 5400 Gasoline Alley Drive 661.829.4468

Three Way Automotive Group 4101 Wible Road 661.829.4314

Haddad Dodge 3000 Harris Road 661.829.4359

Haddad Kia 5445 Gasoline Alley Drive 661.398.0264

Motor City Auto Center 3101 Pacheco Road 661.836.9000

Bakersfield Mazda 3201 Cattle Drive 661.328.8000

Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield 3101 Pacheco Road 866.421.6163

Bakersfield Mitsubishi 5200 Gasoline Alley Drive 661.398.9422

BMW of Bakersfield

5400 Gasoline Alley Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 396-4040 www.bmwofbakersfield.com

2012 NEW CARS

Green/ Economy Nissan Leaf The 2012 Nissan Leaf is the first, full-electric mainstream vehicle to be put on sale for the American consumer. The Leaf stores its power in a lithium-ion battery pack, making it one of the first vehicles to use this advanced battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries promise better acceleration and range than comparably sized nickel-metal hydride ones. Nissan says recharging at home with a special 220-volt charger will take 4-8 hours.

A commercial quick-charge station can do it in about 30 minutes. Fully charged, the Leaf is estimated to have an effective range of about 100 miles.

2012 Mitsubishi I MiEV The all-new Mitsubishi I is 100% electric. It will never burn a drop of gasoline or emit one single molecule of exhaust gas from its tailpipe. In fact, it doesn’t even have a tailpipe.

The internal combustion gasoline engine has been entirely replaced with a clean, efficient electric motor and a high-tech drive train that produce zero on-road emissions—and all kinds of good times. Welcome to a whole new era of transportation. The Mitsubishi i is a finely-tuned energy conservation machine.

Ford Focus SFE MSRP $18,200 MPG 28 City/40 highway A thrilling drive? It’s more than talk. The upto-40 highway mpg Focus SE with SFE Package backs up the talk with an all-new chassis plus AdvanceTrac® electronic stability control (ESC) with anti-lock brakes. Handling, performance and fuel economy. You get it all.

Driving the all-new 2012 Focus goes beyond fun and enjoyable. In it, you’ll discover something more visceral. A dynamic design. An addictive driving experience. And technology and interior ergonomics that wrap around and plug you into something that is definitely more than just a car.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Mazda 3 Skyactiv Face-lifted with an even more refined exterior and interior, the Mazda 3 Skyactiv offers a whopping 40 miles per gallon on the highway thanks to the addition of a new SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine mated to either a new six-speed automatic or manual transmission. The new 2.0-liter, direct-injection four-cylinder is good for 155 horsepower and 148 poundfeet of torque.

Chevrolet Cruze A new 2012 Cruze is actually capable of going almost 600 miles on 15.6 gallon tank of gas. The Cruze models are powered by the 1.4L turbocharged engine connected to a 6 speed automatic transmission. The Cruze gets as much as 42 miles to the gallon, and the Chevy Cruze is the most fuel efficient MPG Gasoline Powered engine among all makes and models that are being released in the 2012 calender year choice of cars.

With improved fuel economy and even more standard features over the 2011 models the Chevy Cruze promises to be a popular choice in Bakersfield.

Hyundai Elantra MSRP from $16,445 MPG 29 city/40 highway Buck convention with a style that breaks free of the traditional compact car ‘blah’ factor.

Designed in Southern California, the Elantra’s exterior integrates a sloping, coupe-like roof line and an increased wheelbase to give it a sporty, low profile that leaves its more boxy competitors behind. Its interior provides plenty of room for premium features like front and rear heated seats, leather seating surfaces and even a 360-watt audio system.

And provides plenty of safety features -- six air bags, 4-wheel ABS and an intelligent Vehicle Stability – to keep you safer than ever.

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

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2012 NEW CARS

Green/ Economy Lexus CT 200h Hybrid MSRP $29,120 base MPG 43 City/40 highway Offering the highest combined fuel-efficiency rating of any luxury vehicle, the CT200h provides an ultra-quiet-ride delivering an amazing estimated 42 combined MPG. In addition to utilizing a variety of ecological and bio-sourced materials, it’s designed to ultimately be over 85% recyclable. But being eco-savvy doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy that exhilarating feeling behind a sporty vehicle.

CT200h offers drive select, allowing you to kick it into Sport, Standard or Eco-Mode depending on your attitude.

Chevrolet Malibu The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu comes in four choices; LS, 1LT and 2LT, and the luxury LTZ. Each of the choices has a combination of handsome looks, a spacious and well-finished cabin, competent performance and a quiet ride! A Two Tone interior scheme comes with each choice, even the base model, the LS. The Chevy Malibu is in it’s sixth decade and the 2012 Malibu boasts a level of refinement and overall competence that puts it head and shoulders above its past generations.

Nissan Versa 1.6 SV The all-new 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan. Small is big and smart is sexy. The spacious interior offers unexpected leg and headroom to sit five comfortably. The 2012 Nissan Versa is the first Nissan in North American to wear the PUREDRIVE badge. A key part of Nissan’s commitment to produce eco-friendly vehicles, the PUREDRIVE initiative focuses in improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emission levels. For any vehicle to wear the PUREDRIVE badge, Nissan requires that it exceed the industry average Federal CAFÉ fuel economy standards for model year 2016.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Nissan of Bakersfield www.nissanofbakersfield.com

2800 PACHECO RD. 661-835-8600

THE BAKERSFIELD AUTOMALL

Prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. All vehicles subject to prior sale. Prices expire at close of business on date of publication.

In The Bakersfield Automall

2012 NEW CARS

Trucks

Chevy Silverado You can tow up to 21,700 Pounds with the 2012 Chevy Silverado which is available locally at 3 Way Chevrolet! Choose from the “pure pick up” or “luxury inspired” designs. Also select from different choices of engines including a 360 Horsepower 6.0 liter V8 or a 397horsepower 6.6 liter turbo diesel V8.

Ford F-150 EcoBoost Super Cab MSRP $22,790 MPG 17 city/23 highway EcoBoost is the ideal choice for towing and hauling. It utilizes advanced technology and engineering similar to that found in heavyduty turbo-diesel truck engines to help F-150 deliver a best-in-class mix of torque, capability and efficiency. It can tow more than any competitor (up to 11,300 lbs.), haul more (up to 3,060 lbs.), give you more torque (420 lb.-f t.) and do it all efficiently. Extensive durability testing pushed EcoBoost to extremes, ensuring that it is BUILT FORD TOUGH.®

GMC Sierra Crew Cab MPG 15 City/22 highway Sierra Trucks – GMC Professional Grade in every way! Cab comforts, driver control, towing capability, power stability and more. If its work or play – Sierra is the truck for buyers who want the best.

With a full line of regular, extended and crew cab Sierra offers ½ Ton, ¾ Ton, and 1 Ton models in trim grades from work truck to Denali. Professional grade isn’t just a slogan, it’s what makes a GMC Sierra best in class.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Car care Service suggestions to keep your car in shape While many newer vehicles have extended the oil change interval beyond the old standard of three months or 3,000 miles, here are some considerations in determining when to service your car or truck for the longest life: 1. Check your owner’s manual for required services, and don’t skip these just because nothing appears to be wrong.

2. Look for leaks in your driveway or parking spot, anything that leaks is going to eventually cause a problem, and usually is a good indication that repair may be needed.

3. Pick a service provider you trust and go there every time, don’t just go to the most convenient place that day. Having consistent inspections will prevent costly repairs. Between visits, look at the fluids and see if they are full or needing replenishment. Ask your service provider for a quick lesson on which fluids you are looking at.

4. Make sure to keep records of all services and repairs, this can show a manufacturer that you have been trying to maintain the vehicle if you need warranty coverage.

All new car dealers maintain this record for you if you use their service department regularly.

5. Set a time and mileage limit on when to get service and don’t skip or postpone. Budget for these services in advance if you need to, but go at least twice a year and never more than 5,000 miles between checkups.

6. Pay attention to your gauges and lights. If you see an unusual reading or a warning light comes on, go directly to your service provider for inspection.

7. Tires should be inspected like brakes, every service and replaced when usable life is below 4/32. If this may occur before your next service (or when we go into the rainy season), replaced them sooner than your next service.

8. Have your brakes looks at every time you service your car and replace the pads or shoes when the thickness is below 2 mm. If the wear indicates you may not make it another 5,000 miles before the brakes are worn below 2 mm, schedule another visit in between to do this.

9. A good rule of thumb on services is: Oil and filter every 5,000 miles, air filters every 20,000 miles, transmission service every 40,000 miles, power steering and cooling services every 50,000 miles.

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2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

Your car can last upwards of 200,000 miles with proper maintenance or be unreliable at 50,000 miles if it has been neglected. Service is the best investment you can make as a car owner.

— John Pitre, general manager at Motor City Auto Center

2012 New Car Guide by Bakersfield Life

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WHY I LIVE HERE

Photo by Casey Christie

Kathryn Mears Academic adviser for the University of La Verne

Age: Age is just a number. Do I really have to answer? I’m old enough to know where the Brocks and JC Penney's stores were downtown.

Born and raised in Bakersfield: I have lived here all my life except for a few college years in LA. What keeps me centered and why I chose to live in Bakersfield: My church and family are here.

Been around the block: I have lived in different parts of the city, including the East Side, Alta Vista, and Oleander.

Three words that describe my neighborhood: Charming, laid-back, and friendly My Saturday zen: I like going to the farmer’s market and then go grab a glass of iced tea and chill out with my hubby at Dagny’s.

So much to choose, so little time: There are many things to do in Bakersfield.

You have the Via Arte, Street Faires, car

shows, fundraisers, and recently Latination at Metro Galleries. The new event I have really enjoyed is the Pie Run at Hart Park on Thanksgiving Day. It is a blast. This year will be my third year. You wonder who will really get up so early on a holiday but, when you get there you see lots of people enjoying their morning run, walk, bike and hot chocolate with everyone else in the community. It is pretty cool.

Locally prepared cuisine is the best: It’s tough for me to pick my favorite restaurant in town. I would have to choose Luigi’s. They have the best mushroom ravioli and their sun-dried tomato pesto with the cambozola cheese is quite the fix for me not to mention there is always a buzz in the place. Every time my brother is in town, we head to Luigi’s for lunch.

When it comes to family gatherings, there’s only two choices: I relax in Bakersfield by barbecuing with friends or family or heading out to any of the many pizza parlors in town.

Best-kept secret in Bakersfield: Hart Park. It’s beautiful during the fall when the trees change colors.

My favorite getaway: It has to be Carpinteria. I go there to do nothing but be at the beach.

Such a giving community: I like the fact there are people in our community who care about where they live, where they work and the people around them. And that you can still walk into a restaurant or grocery store and know at least one person in the place.

Bakersfield often gets negatively ranked on lists, the positive list I think we should rank near the top on is: Places people can still live affordably. Places with great mom and pop places to go eat and shop.

The perfect place for date night in Bakersfield is: First Fridays. You can walk around downtown to see the new artists show off their talents, talk a little, shop a little, and then head to a good restaurant in the area. www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Photo courtesy of Mark Garibaldi

PERSONALITY

Mark Garibaldi Mind over matter: Local life coach helps others with winning game plan

S

By Lisa Kimble

Seventeen-year-old Kendall Huser is the kind of student every parent hopes for: high achieving, active and involved. But behind the scenes, the Bakersfield High School senior golfer was having trouble keeping her head in the game. “I never knew what to think, or I would think too much when I’m out on the course for five hours,” she said.

Frustrated, the ASB vice president, who aspires to play golf next year in college, turned to Mark Garibaldi, a local life coach and founder of the popular Garo Method for direction.

It was a good call, she said, and a decision that has changed her life. “They say 90 percent of golf is mental. The program is amazing and has changed everything and my whole outlook on the course.” Her swing has improved, she has shot her best rounds ever, and she has been contacted by college golf coaches. “I’ve never been happier,” she added.

The same can be said of others.

Three years ago, recent Centennial grad and Bakersfield College freshman golfer, Jack Henneberry found himself in the same boat —

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Bakersfield Life

October 2011

with ambitions of continuing to play golf after high school but lacking focus. His father had heard of the mental fitness program, The Garo Method, and decided it was time to make the investment. “The pro at Seven Oaks, Joe Haggerty, introduced the program to us as ‘the secret,’” Pat Henneberry said. “I thought ‘Well, I’m spending a lot of time and money on equipment, lessons and professionals.’”

Today he believes it was worth every penny. This past May, Jack and his teammates brought home Centennial’s first ever Central Section golf title. “His [Jack’s] improved self-confidence showed in the classroom, too, where he took on a leadership role in a virtual class that required public speaking,” he added.

So what was the secret to ‘the secret?’

“You are able to rid yourself of distractions and think more positively about yourself and raise your self-esteem,” Pat Henneberry said.

The Garo Method is a three-pronged program of mental fitness, nutrition and physical ability that has been employed by hundreds of people, from the classroom to the boardroom, from students and athletes to professionals. “For a lot of adults, their biggest distraction is daily stress,” founder Mark Garibaldi said. “This has helped people become more focused, more calm and relaxed.”

Launched in 2002, The Garo Method’s methodology develops a mental fitness regimen through the use of trigger words, deep, medita-

tive, sessions, and integrates nutritional awareness and physical fitness.

Developed over a lifetime of life experiences, principles and philosophy, the CD program and one-on-one life coaching aren’t just athletespecific, but aimed at anyone determined to master mind over what matters most to them. “I want to help make someone a great human being who walks with confidence,” he said.

Bakersfield native Garibaldi, a standout high school and collegiate athlete, earned a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from the University of San Diego, and a master’s at Cal State Bakersfield. After a formal grievance at CSUB unwittingly thrust him into the role of spokesman, successfully championing the cause of his fellow grad students who encouraged him to pursue a career in law, Garibaldi enrolled at the University of Pacific’s McGeorge School of Law, where he began crafting his plan, putting the mental aspects and principles in place.

“When I began to use it on myself in law school, I realized this is what I am supposed to do,” Garibaldi said. He returned to Bakersfield, and after a year in private practice, joined the District Attorney’s office where he spent more than a decade. As rewarding as the work was advocating on behalf of victims, Garibaldi said he found the adversarial nature of The Garo Method criminal litigation stifling.

• For more information call “What I am doing now is 635-8447 or visit thegaromethod.com. all positive,” he said, add• Email: info@thegaromethod.com ing that he always thought he would be involved in coaching someday.

Today, he is part coach, part therapist, part parent and part counselor. His concept has worked for hundreds of people across the country, including Major League baseball player Geoff Blum. “My mind had become flooded with negativity — bad team, bad coaches...bad city and eventually, a bad attitude,” Blum writes on The Garo Method’s website testimonial page. “I began listening to Garo’s message...my performance and attitude improved, and I was able to regain my integrity.”

Six years ago, Blum went on to hit the game winning homerun at the top of the 14th inning of Game 3 of the 2005 World Series, which was the longest game in World Series history.

Garo, short for Garibaldi, is the nickname his college football teammates gave him. “My program is designed for people who want to reach their potential. It is all about self-esteem.” The unique one-on-one program ideally involves up to eight sessions, two to four hours each, although it is tailored to the needs of the individual. “The cornerstones of this program are self esteem, relaxation, confidence, believing in yourself and being able to achieve what your goals are,” he said. “By making them healthy, they become better more productive citizens.”

A lifelong fitness devotee, Garibaldi also incorporates juicing and homemade energy drinks into his curriculum, as well as placing a heavy emphasis on appreciation and good manners. “This is all about teaching you how to teach yourself to become a better person and improve the quality of life.”

The results are proven. “I will use these tools forever,” Huser said.

“I feel so much better about myself, and I have such a better outlook on everything.” At the end, participants receive a three-inch thick binder containing all the materials covered in the course, a blueprint of the principles and roadmap for the future.

Garibaldi believes he has found the magic formula. His clients agree, and their academic, athletic and professional performances underscore that. And his enthusiasm for the ability to help transform lives is pronounced. “This isn’t work at all,” he enthuses. “Why shouldn’t we all be the best we can be?”

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Healthy lunches in school cafeterias See what’s changed on BCSD menus

A

By Gabriel Ramirez

Salad bars let students actively participate in menu decisions.

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Bakersfield Life

How many years have you worked for BCSD food services?

A: I have worked as a food service director for the last 12 years and have been the director of food services for BCSD the last 6 years.

Photo by Dan Ocampo

As a society, we think about how clean the air we breath is and how pure the water we drink is, but do we stop to consider the quality of the food we eat? With obesity rates on the rise, maybe it’s time we all did.

According to the Center for Disease Control, one-third of U.S. adults and 17 percent of children under the age of

19, that is 12.5 million children, now fall under the obese category. In an attempt to not just prevent childhood obesity but also adult obesity by teaching good eating habits early on, school districts have been modifying their menus to include more greens and less grease.

Locally, the Bakersfield City School District (BCSD) has been implementing some changes to help keep students healthy. The district serves 23,815 lunches, 11,000 breakfasts and 8,000 snacks everyday and 89 percent of its students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

To learn a little more about what changes the district has implemented we talked to Brenda Robinson, director of food services.

October 2011

What do you feel has led to the large obesity rates?

A: According to the Center for Disease Control, children are consuming more calories than they burn in physical activity. Screen watching has taken the place of actual outdoor physical activity in some families. Family lifestyles are different than in years past. Students have more access to technology items that do not promote physical activity such as television, computers, video games, etc. Time constraints can affect the food choices that children are offered at home.

We are continually reaching out to parents to educate them on accessible, healthy food options, not just at school, but at home too.

How have menus changed in schools?

School lunches have been displayed in a negative light, but reality is they have never been better. In the state of California, our schools have access to so many fruits, vegetables and proteins grown right here.

Bakersfield City School District’s menus are based on science using federal nutritional standards requiring no more than 30 percent of calories from total fat and less than 10 percent from saturated fat. Menus must provide a third of the recommended dietary allowances of protein, vitamins A & C, iron and calcium.

Calories and portions are regulated and must be age appropriate. Our baked goods have whole grains and overall menu options are low in sodium. Yet, beyond being better for you, we make sure they are tasty and appealing to the children.

What has been eliminated/added from the menus?

BCSD has chosen to create our menus to meet the USDA HealthierUS School Challenge, which requires serving 51 percent whole grain items. Menus reflect the dark green or orange vegetable requirements, the cooked dry bean servings and the fresh fruit servings. We will add two salad bars this school year. Our school district has reformulated our nonfat chocolate milk to eliminate high fructose corn syrup.

Can you give me some information about the fresh fruit and vegetable grant?

A: The fresh fruit and vegetable grants were established to provide all children in participating elementary schools with a variety of free, fresh fruit and vegetable snacks throughout the school day as a supplement to the school lunch or breakfast program. To be eligible to apply, a school must be an elementary school that is operating under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and have more than 50 percent of the students eligible for free/ reduced meals. The school must offer the fresh fruit or vegetable as a snack to all students during the school day.

How are school lunches different now than they were 20 to 30 years ago?

A: In comparing our current menus to a 1953 version that we have on file, the main difference is the menus reflected the type of cooking done at home at the time, such as more stews or casseroles. Meals prepared at school were made from scratch on site with children having more time to sit and eat. Today we serve 11,000 more meals per day in less time. The science based nutritional analysis we use to guide us ensures that there is less sugar, sodium and fat in each meal served.

Are nutritious lunches more expensive to prepare?

A: Cost is based on the current market trends. BCSD is a member of PinCo (Partners in Nutrition Cooperative), which is the second largest school food-buying co-op in the state. Large volume purchasing results in lower over-all pricing. Additionally, BCSD utilizes all USDA commodities that provide meat, fruit and vegetables received throughout the school year.

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Continued from page 71

What are some of the future guidelines that the district is planning on implementing?

A: BCSD’s future guidelines will reflect the necessary changes as required by USDA. The Food Service Department is focused on helping students realize that fruits and vegetables are “treasures” and educate students on how to make healthy choices. “Feeding our Students not Feeding our Trash Cans” is one of our current projects to encourage our students to eat their choices. After all, you can put the perfectly balanced healthy meal in front of a child, but if they fail to consume the items, you haven’t gained anything.

How have students been reacting to the changes?

A: The most exciting change has been the addition of the salad bars at the schools that have been able to implement this choice. The students love contributing their suggestions for new items for the “upcoming treasure bar,” such as mango strips and more strawberries. When the students actively participate in menu decisions, they are more likely to eat what they have suggested.

Two years ago, we changed the hamburger buns and dinner roll to a 51 percent whole

grain product and the students didn’t notice the change. Our participation numbers indicate that students prefer fresh fruits and vegetables to processed fruits and vegetables. The most effective way to introduce the new product is in the classroom setting where the students have time to examine, discuss and try the product in an intimate setting. Due to the fact that students can be picky eaters, BCSD conducts student taste tests to involve the students in menu item selection.

What have you heard from the parents?

A: Our parents have been supportive of our efforts to offer the students new and exciting options. Several parents at Hort thanked principal Steve Robinson for the school’s participation in the challenge.

It was noted that their families had taken an increased interest in eating more fruits and vegetables at home in addition to increasing their physical activities. Many parents commented on their child’s excitement about the farmers market and the items they chose. Our students suggested we do a farmers market once a week at school, which validates their interest in fresh fruits and vegetables.

Are healthy lunches being threatened by budget problems in Sacramento/D.C.?

A: Districts rely on Federal and State reimbursement to help subsidize the cost of preparing a meal. If funding were withheld, it could result in a change in menu items to utilize a less expensive alternative. It is also important to note the amount of students that receive free and reduced meals has increased over the past two years, and we cannot allow any child to go hungry.

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73

ENTERTAINMENT

Lee Clark

The Clark Collection Bright colors of Mexican folk art celebrate rich culture

F

By Alyssa Morones

Photos by Tanya X. Leonzo

Former Cal State Bakersfield and Bakersfield College professor Lee Clark dedicated the past 50 years of his life cultivating an extensive collection of Mexican folk art.

Now, he would love nothing more than to have the opportunity to share his colorful and diverse collection with the Bakersfield community.

“This art transcends linguistic boundaries,” said Clark.

“I hope it can bring joy to the community for many years to come”.

An archeological trip to Teotihuacán, Mexico as an archeology student in 1960, incited Clark’s love affair with Mexican folk art.

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October 2011

Clothing from Guatemala and Mexico.

Figurines from Oaxaca.

“Everywhere I went I saw colors — on The art collector taught a course at BC textiles, ceramics, flowers in yards,” said on Mexican folk art at the urging of Nancy Clark. “The culture has such a wonderful Magner, fellow art historian and BC profestradition of using colors.” sor. Magner first created the class after Clark returned from this trip, baskets realizing that her students, many of Latin full of folk art in hand, to teach at Kent State American background, had little clue as to before taking a job at the University of the the history of their own culture.

Americas in Mexico City, of which he was “As the demographics of my students eventually dean of students. changed over the years to include more He has traveled to Mexico multiple and more Latino students,” said Magner, times throughout the years in search of new “I realized that most didn’t know their own pieces of folk art. For the past 20 of these cultures.” As department chair, Magner years, he’s used the book, proposed a course in Latin “Great Masters of Mexican American art. “It’s such a Folk Art,” as his primary rich culture,” she said. “I guide. The book catalogues didn’t want my students to the 150 best living folk artists lose it.” Magner ultimately of each medium. Clark estireached out to Clark to teach mates that he has works from this course. about 100 of these artists.

Already a generous conIn his older age, Clark tributor to the Bakersfield Nancy Magner, continues to seek new works BC professor and art historian Museum of Art, Clark hopes primarily through an art agent to soon see his vast collecliving in Mexico who buys the works of art tion on permanent display. Museum direcfor him. Ebay has also proven an unexpecttor, Bernie Herman, said that the museum ed ally because, as Clark puts it, you never plans to create a rotating exhibit of Clark’s know what you’ll find. collection.

The Clark Foundation for Mexican Because the museum currently does not Folk Art was established in 2010, with the have enough room to house such a collecpurpose of building upon Clark’s folk art tion, the plan is to construct a separate adcollection, which at present contains more ditional gallery, which would be called the than 2,000 pieces.

C. Lee Clark Gallery. Additionally, Herman Clark’s collection is diverse not just in also said that there may be an opportunity to its represented mediums, from ceramics send a traveling show to other museums. to paintings to textiles, but also in the eras While Herman doesn’t anticipate the from which they were birthed. Some of the price for this new gallery to be too steep, he artifacts can be traced as far back as 350 said, “we still need support, support, support AD, part of the pre-Columbian era. from the community.”

Peruvian art piece by the Jivaro Tribe.

“It’s such a rich culture.

I didn’t want my students to lose it.”

A whimsical piece from the Clark collection.

Mexican ceramic art known as “Barro Betus” from Medrano. www.BakersfieldLife.com

75

ENTERTAINMENT

Trifecta of terror

Photo by Aaron Ruth

Local scream park adds zombie paintball attraction

In addition to Zombie X, Talladega Frights wil continue to offer its traditional Halloween attractions.

L

By Dana Martin

Last year, the owners of Talladega Frights fielded calls from curious paintball enthusiasts clamoring to know the plans for the corn on Rosedale Highway — a nine-acre parcel earmarked for family friendly Halloween mazes. The eight-foottall stalks seemed perfect for paintball combat, people said.

Paintballs and corn. The suggestion had merit.

“The idea just stayed in our heads,” said haunt co-owner Adam Stubbs, 33.

Mike Wilbur, 36, the attraction’s creator and co-owner, once thought to use the extra land to create a haunted hayride, but after doing some research, he decided to bring an entirely new concept to Kern County.

This spring, Wilbur and Stubbs traveled to St. Louis to the Transworld Halloween and Attractions show, where they sat down with their friends, the owners of Fear Fest Haunted House, to learn about their attraction, Zombie Safari. “They

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October 2011

pull trailers that have paintball guns mounted on the side, so rather than a traditional hayride, it’s like a live video game experience. People get to shoot zombies with paintball guns,” said Wilbur.

Zombie X, the newest attraction at Talladega Frights Scream Park, uses an adapted version of the Missouri model on their six-acre site, an area reportedly quarantined by the military to eliminate a zombie threat. The zombies are an intelligent, highly aggressive breed that the military can no longer contain by themselves. They need help.

“Zombie X will be a great attraction for Bakersfield. We are a hunting community. And this attraction widens our age group,” said Stubbs. “Kids who are afraid of the haunted house can come shoot zombies. You will see five-year-olds to 85year-olds shooting zombies from the trailers.”

The double-decker trailers seat 20 people, and each cus-

Photo by Dana Martin

tomer has a paintball gun with 75 rounds of ammunition developed with a “special formula” as the only truly effective way to kill zombies. During the ride, the trailers will encounter dozens of zombies among seven different stations. Additional “ammo” is for sale in case a little more paintball fun is in order.

But that isn’t all. Talladega Frights will continue to offer the more traditional horrific Halloween fun, too. For truly top tier thrill seekers, Hillbilly Hell returns completely redesigned for 2011 to include more special effects, animatronics, and a glimpse of the hobbies of the now infamous chainsaw wielding characters, Bart and Lester Heywood. Also new for 2011 are two new attractions, Wicked Dark Talladega Frights and Whitechapel.

Scream Park “We’re real excited • Sept. 30 to Oct. 31, Thursday to about Whitechapel,” said -Sunday Wilbur, who says he’s been • 7 to 10 p.m. weeknights, 7-midnight weekends spending most of his time decorating elaborate sets • 11811 Rosedale HIghway to recreate 1880s London, • Admission: $15 (Visit talladegafrights.com for exact dates/times where Jack the Ripper and discounts) walked the streets. “We believe we have reconstructed what Whitechapel District would have looked like back then. Guests will follow on the heels of the Ripper murders and, if they’re lucky, might get to meet Jack.”

Rounding out the trifecta of terror is Wicked Dark, Talladega Frights’ version of a dark maze. “We will all but eliminate your sight in a big maze of spooks, scares, and special effects. It’s kind of a

Daniel Van Galder, Mason Folger and Jason Dritt get in character while filming the Zombie X commercial for Talladega Frights. throwback to old haunted houses that didn’t rely on theme or decoration. They played more on peoples’ fear of the dark,” said Wilbur.

Owners expect that families and haunt lovers of all ages will find plenty of reasons to make Talladega Frights their Halloween tradition. The midway offers food, entertainment, and a giant movie screen playing clips from popular horror movies. But to Wilbur, there’s always room for more.

“I start visualizing the following year while I’m building the current show. You don’t ever stop working on it, writing down ideas so we can keep improving year after year.”

www.BakersfieldLife.com

77

Photo courtesy of Kern County Museum

HISTORY

Franklin Elementary School students buy a jeep for the war effort, Feb. 19, 1943.

The history of the jeep

T

By Jeff Nickell

The history of the jeep has a military tie that runs deep in American history. In June 1940, with World War II on the horizon, the United States Army solicited bids from 135 automakers for a 1/4 ton “light reconnaissance vehicle” tailored to Army specifications. Only three companies responded, Bantam, Willys and Ford — but, within a year’s time, they collectively produced the template for the vehicle known worldwide as the jeep.

Willys-Overland delivered the prototype Quad (named for the 4X4 system it featured), to the U.S. Army on Armistice Day (Veteran’s Day), November of 1940. The design was completed in a remarkable 75 days. Only two prototypes were made.

In 1941, the Willys MA was built and featured a gearshift on the steering column, low side body cutouts, two circular instrument clusters on the dashboard, and a hand brake on the left side. Willys struggled to reduce the weight to the new Army specification of 2,160 pounds. Items removed in order for the MA to reach that goal were reinstalled on the next-generation MB resulting in a final weight of ap78

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

proximately just 400 pounds above the specifications.

After arduous testing, Willys-Overland was awarded the contract in July of 1941, calling for the production of 16,000 revised MB models at a unit price of $738.74. Most of the MAs were sent to the United States Allies in Russia and England under the Lend-Lease program. Today, the MA is the rarest of all pre-production Willys, with only about 30 models known to exist.

From 1941 to 1945, the Jeep MB was the vehicle of choice. The U.S. Army requested a vehicle and drove off in a hero. The Willys MB — its spirit forged by the fire of combat and honed in the heat of battle — seared its way into the hearts of warriors fighting for freedom.

Fierce emotional bonds often developed between a soldier and his Jeep 4x4. The faithful MB earned a place in every GI’s heart, in every area of combat, in every conceivable role.

The MB started a revolution in the use of small military motor vehicles in the U.S. Army. Horses along with motorcycles, solo and side car, were rendered obsolete almost immediately. The all-purpose MB was amazingly versatile. They could be fitted with .30 or .50 caliber machine guns for combat. They were also widely modified for long range desert patrol, snow plowing, telephone cable laying, saw milling, as fire fighting pumpers, field ambulances, tractors and, with suitable wheels, would even run on railway tracks.

MB’s could be loaded into transport aircraft for rapid deployment and were also small enough to fit into the large gliders used in the D-Day invasion of Europe. Over the course of the war, customized field kits were developed for winter and desert conditions, deep-water

Willys-Overland also advertised the CJ-2A as “a powerhouse on fording and other combat needs. wheels,” pitching it as a work vehicle and mobile power to the masses.

General George C. Marshall, U.S. Army Chief of Staff during World War II, and later U.S. Secretary of State, described the jeep 4x4 A variety of farm implements and industrial tools were devised for use in conjunction with an onboard power take-off unit. A belt-driven as “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.” Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower confidently stated, “America could not have won World governor was controlled from the instrument panel, allowing regulation of engine speeds from 1,000 to 2,600 rpm.

War II without it.”

Sales were brisk despite the glut of MBs on the Scripps Howard World War II reporter war surplus market. Cash awards were offered Ernie Pyle once said, “It did everything. It

by Popular Science magazine for ideas on went everywhere. Was as faithful as a dog, “Peacetime Jobs for Jeeps.” as strong as a mule, and as agile as a goat! It Obviously, the history of jeep does not end constantly carried twice what it was designed in 1949. This year, Jeep celebrates its 70th anfor and still kept going.” Although the Willys niversary and Bakersfield, along with the rest of MB was not the first four-wheel-drive vehicle, the country, celebrates it, too. Not only for its the go-anywhere, do-anything jeep vehicle inrole in our military, but also for a dependable fluenced every 4x4 built in its wake. The New vehicle millions of Americans have relied on up York Museum of Modern Art includes a 1941 Willys MB in its display of nine automobiles to this very day. regarded as “works of art.”

Next month, read about the Military Tribute Of course, what ensued was a vehicle and Vehicle Show being held from 2 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 11 at the Kern County Museum. It will modified for post-war service. That started Ernie Pyle, Scripps Howard World War II be a fundraiser for both the Kern County Muwith the 1945 to 1949 Jeep CJ-2A. According reporter describing the jeep’s use in combat to Willys-Overland, there were 5.5 million seum and the Minter Field Air Museum, which is being presented by Bakersfield Chrysler Jeep. The event will be a farmers in the U.S., and of these, more than 4 million had neither a great way for Bakersfield to help celebrate the service of our veterans truck nor a tractor. The rugged and versatile CJ-2A was marketed by whose courage has afforded us the freedom we have.

Willys-Overland as “the all-around farm work-horse.” It could do Note: Information for this story was taken from the The History of the job of two heavy draft horses, operating at a speed of four miles Jeep on the Jeep website. If you want to learn more about the history per hour, 10 hours a day, without overheating the engine. The CJ-2A of Jeep, check out the website because there are also several other Universal was to serve agriculture and industry all over the world in a sites detailing Jeep’s history. thousand different ways.

“Was as faithful as a dog, as strong as a mule, and as agile as a goat! It constantly carried twice what it was designed for and still kept going.”

www.BakersfieldLife.com

79

The Kern Vascular Center staff. Front row, from left: Hao D. Bui, M.D., Tien H. Nguyen, M.D. and Jorge A. Enriquez, M.D. Back row: Thuy Nguyen, Lucy Rosas, Marisol Valenciana, Shelby Lawson, Vanessa Castro and Sandy Zapien.

KernVascular Center Dr. Hao D Bui, M.D., F.A.C.S. Address: 4901 Centennial Plaza Way Phone number: 387-8333 Vascular surgery is not as well known as some other specialties like plastic or neurosurgery surgery. Many people think of vascular surgeon as “veins doctors” or “heart doctors”. It is not as well known because it is still a relatively new specialty.

“We are the plumbers of the human body” said Dr. Hao Bui, “We performed procedures ranging from minimum invasive procedures to a major operation, we can recommend what is the most appropriate for the vascular patient.”

“We treat disorders of the vascular and lymphatic systems. The vascular system consists of all the body’s arteries and veins, while the lymphatic system transports vital blood components from the veins and arteries to the cells. A vascular surgeon not only performs open surgery, but also treat patient medically and use new minimal invasive techniques.”

Dr. Bui is a Bakersfield’s native. He was a political refugee from Vietnam after the war and was sponsored to Bakersfield as a young boy.

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Photo by Casey Christie

BUSINESS PROFILE

With the help of the community, he graduated as a Valedictorian from South High. Dr. Bui went on to UCLA School of medicine and finished his residency and vascular surgery fellowship at Harbor-UCLA. “I have always wanted to be a doctor” Dr. Bui said, “It was not until medical school that I decided to be a vascular surgeon. During medical school, vascular surgery sparked my interest because it was a developing field. It has a wide range of procedures from helping someone’s legs look beautiful with treatment of varicose veins to saving someone’s life in matter of minutes with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms.”

“When I finished my vascular fellowship in 2007, I had a choice to stay in LA or teach in Northern California, but when an opportunity opens up in Bakersfield, I thought it was a great opportunity to thank the Bakersfield community for helping me in my earlier years,” said Dr. Bui, who is the only board certified vascular surgeon in Bakersfield.

After four years back in Bakersfield, Dr. Bui opened Kern Vascular Center (KVC) in January of 2011 to offer comprehensive vascular care. The office is fully equipped with the latest technologies.

Dr. Bui has recruited Dr. Tien Nguyen, who attended UC San Diego medical school, UC Irvine residency and Harbor-UCLA vascular fellowship to join him in bringing the best vascular care to Bakersfield. Dr. Jorge A. Enriquez, M.D, a general surgeon, also joins KVC in July 2011 to treat patients with general surgical conditions.

“I hope Kern Vascular Center will have what is best and most convenient to the people of Bakersfield,” Said Dr. Bui. “Instead of people leaving, people from outside the city will seek out Kern Vascular Center for better vascular care.”

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Photo by Greg Nichols

Stockdale Country Club

The soon-to-be-completed Greens Project will bring significant upgrades to the 85-year-old golf course at Stockdale Country Club.

Address: 7001 Stockdale Highway Phone number: 832-0310 Website: stockdalecc.com What sets SCC apart from others in the area?

Having just celebrated its 85th year of existence, members and guests of Stockdale Country Club would likely use the words charm and tradition when describing the club. The golf course is known for being short and tight and at just over 6,000 yards, walking is a pleasant option. The tennis facilities are top-notch including two professional quality grass courts. They have been the site of high quality professional and amateur tournaments. Many of the staff at Stockdale have a long tenure with the club and their dedication to the members and the club add to the home away from home experience the club strives to offer.

What is the Greens Project and how will the course be improved once it is completed?

In 2008, the board of directors brought the current plan to the membership for 82

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

a vote. The goal was to have consistent construction of the green complexes and enlargement of the putting surfaces to allow for more pin placement options. Along with rebuilding all the greens, the project included an upgrade to the irrigation software, the addition of eight new bunkers, and reconstruction and repositioning of the existing bunkers on the golf course.

The membership endorsed the plan and construction on the project began in late 2009. The club encumbered no on-going debt with the undertaking, and the project is scheduled to be completed on time and under budget.

Besides golf, what other activities does Stockdale Country Club offer?

Stockdale offers a variety of memberships. Junior camps are typically filled to capacity with children and grandchildren of members. When not being used for tennis or an outdoor wedding, the grass courts make ideal bocce ball courts. While somewhat small, the fitness facility accommodates the cardio and weight training needs of members. Casual and more formal dining are available at the club. The club

has an outstanding selection of wines available and regularly holds social and dining events for members that include wine maker dinners and specialty menu offerings. Members enjoy great value for the quality of food and service.

It should be noted that Stockdale is a private country club, and membership is by invitation only.

Briefly describe the atmosphere at the club.

Members and guests at Stockdale enjoy an unpretentious and relaxed environment.

Whether driving down the tree-lined entrance to the club off Stockdale Highway or enjoying the views of the golf course from the inviting patio, Stockdale becomes a place you want to spend time. Card games can be found throughout the day in various locations of the club. As with nearly all activities at the club, family participation is encouraged. Stockdale has several multigenerational families in its membership. It is always endearing to see grandparents and sometimes even great-grandparents enjoying time with their family on the grounds of the club.

7001 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93309

661.832.0310

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

Dr. Darshan Shah

Address: 4850 Commerce Drive Phone number: 865-5009 Website: beautologie.com What is a Mommy Makeover?

A Mommy Makeover is one of our most popular procedures! It really is just a name for a very popular combination of procedures that includes: a tummy tuck (a mini or a full), some sort of breast enhancement procedure (a lift, augmentation or a combination of both) and liposuction. We find that this combination of procedures are safely performed together at the same time, and can alleviate the most problematic areas for most women.

What kind of patient gets a Mommy Makeover and who is your ideal patient for this procedure?

The ideal patient for a Mommy Makeover is a woman whose body has been affected childbearing (or, believe it or not, weight loss, which sometimes results in the same problem areas). Having babies leads to stretch marks and loose skin on the abdomen, volume loss from the breasts, which causes sagging, and fatty deposits in areas that are difficult to get rid of with weight loss or exercise. The Mommy Makeover candidate should be done having children, and be close to their goal body weight. Of course, before any kind of surgery, the patient should not be smoking or have any untreated medical issues.

What are the safety considerations for this surgery?

When we perform the Mommy Makeover, we make sure every 84

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October 2011

patient is “optimized” for surgery. We do an entire preoperative counseling visit where we go over all medical issues, check blood work, and, most importantly, prepare the patient for surgery. Preparation is the key to success. We believe that the more the patient is educated and understands the healing process, the better they will do overall. Of course, all of our procedures are performed by real plastic surgeons who are fellowship trained in plastic surgery in a fully accredited surgery center using an anesthesia provider who is an expert at patient safety.

How long is the healing process?

In general, we say about two weeks off of work (and the same amount of time for help around the house for child care) and four weeks off of heavy lifting and gym workouts. We can write you a note for your family that says you are not allowed to do any housework for six months (wink wink).

What specific things do you do to get the best results?

We have a lot of patients that rave about their results. There are many reasons for this. We are extra careful to make sure that the incision heals the best it can by providing scar treatments for months afterwards. We do liposuction at no additional fee with every tummy tuck to make sure that the “muffin top” has been removed. We spend a significant amount of time really getting to know what the person is looking for in terms of a breast enhancement, so we can match expectations and results. Finally, we also have our plastic surgery secrets that we can't tell in a magazine, but would love to explain to you in person at your consultation!

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BUSINESS PROFILE

The Law Offices of Kyle J. Humphrey Address: 2211 17th St. Phone Number: 327-1360 Website: kylejhumphrey.com How long have you been an attorney?

I have been an attorney nearly 25 years.

I spent most of my early years as a prosecutor in Kern County. I have been a defense attorney since 1993.

What kind of law do you practice?

I practice almost exclusively criminal defense. I will do some closely related hearings like nursing board, or medical or other licensing board stuff if it benefits my client. I recently did an unemployment hearing because it gave me a chance to cross-examine a witness who would not agree to an interview.

Does handling sexual assault and child abuse cases limit your practice?

No, I have tried murders, gangs, drunk driving, spousal abuse, and even a case for having too much dirt on a dump trailer. It 86

Bakersfield Life

October 2011

Photo by Felix Adamo

What types of cases are you known for?

I have handled a lot of high profile serious crimes, but I guess at this point I handle the majority of retained sex crime cases. I have done a lot of trials in this area and I can sometimes give a person a chance they would not otherwise have. I think a lot of lawyers don’t have the ability to stand up to pressure of forcing the government to prove these cases. They are really tough; from the beginning of the accusation the defendant is considered guilty by the police, the jury, the court — it’s an uphill battle. If you don’t do these cases all the time and don’t try them, you have no business taking them on.

is my experience at trial work that actually lets me try any case, no matter the type or the odds.

How do you give back to the community?

I like to think that I give back to the community professionally by remembering my oath as an attorney. I have the job of defending the most despised and hated people. I give 100 percent to defending them regardless of the evidence. I want to educate people to believe in the idea that better 100 guilty men go free than one innocent man be convicted. A lot of my clients have never been in trouble before and will never be in trouble again. If I can keep them out of jail, we are all better off. I also help out whenever Monsignor Craig calls and says, “I know this family and they have a problem, they are from our parish.”

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love almost every part of my job except the application of factory economics to justice. We have a system where the prosecution, prisons, and law enforcement are given almost unlimited resources to get people, and the defense has had its hands tied behind its back. For example, we can’t subpoena records from the police in most cases, or if we subpoena anything, we have to basically expose our defense to the government. The prosecution and the investigators get to work in secrecy. Our current system is sold as how do we move the most cases for the least amount of money. I think justice is expensive and people should know that every time they consider passing another law to take our freedom. Right now for example, if you are just accused of domestic violence, before you are convicted, or had a trial, the court can take all of your firearms. This can cost people their jobs even when they are innocent. There is no evidence that this theft of our right to bear arms has any correlation to further crimes.

It is just another example of being tough on crime.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time, I like to practice yoga and to read. The more I read, the more I appreciate what a unique country we live in. This is truly the greatest nation on earth because we have a Bill of Rights, we have jury trials before our peers, and we still have time to recover and remember to protect freedom, even if it expensive.

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TRIP PLANNER

Lido Restaurant at Dolphin Bay Resort.

Looking to be spoiled?

Dolphin Bay Resort is waiting for you

I

Story and photos by Lois Henry If you feel the need for a little pampering, boy have I got the place for you – Dolphin Bay Resort in Shell Beach.

That’s right, the lap of luxury awaits you in Bakersfield’s most favorite coastal playground, just a quick two-and-a-halfhour drive away.

I admit that I had no idea what to expect from this four-star resort. First, I’ve never stayed anywhere that actually merited “stars,” much less had so many. Second, the Central Coast is

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“our” kind of place — comfortable, broken in, shall we say. We absolutely love it, of course. But four stars? That’s more Santa Barbara’s style.

So, like I said, I was unprepared for Dolphin Bay’s level of pure swank.

“Holy sha-MOLY!” was my highly unswank reaction when I walked into the two-bedroom, two-bath, full kitchen, fireplace, balcony-with-an-incredible-view “room.”

Before you start backing away because of price (from about $335 and up per night depending on the suite and time of year), remember, many units have multiple bedrooms and sleeper sofas.

How much would you spend for two or more much lesser quality hotel rooms for you and the kids? Or for you and another couple?

Plus, they all have full kitchens, knocking your vacation food costs way down. There are even grills near the pool so you can show off your barbecue skills.

Get a little creative, and Dolphin Bay doesn’t have to be out of your price range.

Thinkstock

View from Wolff Vineyard’s tasting room patio.

Looking something a coastal trip with a twist in October?

Don’t miss Pismo Beach’s 65th Annual Clam Festival Oct. 14-16.

The event starts with a “wine walk” Friday evening at 5:30 where you can stroll around a three-block area sampling regional wines. You can get a map that wineries will stamp and if you get at least 10 stamps, you can put it in a hopper for a chance to win a couple nights stay.

You’ll be glad of all that strolling the next day when vendors will be out in force with tempting food samples. Oh, and the clam chowder

Photo by Lois Henry

Photo by Lois Henry

Clam Festival in Pismo cook off gets under way at 11 a.m.

Sunday, you’ll want to head out to the pier for more food samples and champagne.

The best way to take it all in is get your VIP pass for $40 a person good for all events all three days.

Go to http://www.pismochamber. com for tickets. Make your hotel reservations soon as this is a popular event.

“We have a lot of friends in Fresno and Bakersfield,” Pismo Chamber CEO Peter Canela told me. “Anytime we can, we like to give them more excuses to come for a visit.”

And ask about specials. Such as, from now until Dec. 22, you can get 25 percent off room rates during mid-week, Sun-Thur.

Your AAA card always gets you 10 percent off and an American Express account will get you 20 percent off.

And it’s sooooo worth it!

I didn’t have time to take advantage of all the resort’s amenities. Most regrettably, I missed a trip to the La Bonne Vie Spa where you can treat yourself to everything from scalp treatments to pedicures. (Dolphin Bay guests get 20 percent off so I’m kicking myself for not finally getting that hot stone massage I’ve always wanted!!)

But I did very, very happily enjoy a scrumptious dinner at the Lido Restaurant.

Continued on page 90 89

www.BakersfieldLife.com

Not being a chef, I’m always impressed with how people come up with seemingly unlikely combos that work so well. Like mussels with chorizo in a tomato sauce, or seared scallops with baked apples. Yum, yum, YUM! And the wine list, wow! Don’t be frightened. Yes, there are some pric-eee bottles. But it’s a very extensive list so they also offer exceptionally good (and local) mid-range bottles for around $30.

The wait staff — in fact, all the resort staff — are really friendly and helpful so use their expertise to make the most of your stay.

I had hoped to pack a lot into my trip, such as horseback riding and kayaking but the weather didn’t cooperate. What to do?

Ahhh….wine tasting!

The resort staff gathered a number of brochures and pointed me in the right direction to several outstanding wineries close by. The patio and view at Wolff Vineyards was to die for!

I also had a chance to visit a GREAT sports bar in Pismo.The Boardroom (as in

View from a balcony at the Dolphin Bay Resort. surf boards, get it?) is on Hinds Avenue close to the beach but one block off the main drag. Trust me, this is the place to go.

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Especially if you’re a Bulldog fan.

As always, the trip ended too soon.

Can’t wait to plan the next one!

Photo by Lois Henry

Continued from page 89

GET OUT OF TOWN

The Central Coast

By Laura Sverchek

F

The Piedras Blancas lighthouse, north of San Simeon.

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Thinkstock

Fall is one of the best times to visit your favorite places on the Central Coast because the heavy fog rolls away as well as the big crowds of people. With marine animals, hiking and roller coasters, there’s something everyone will enjoy along the coast. Check out these coastal towns and sights when you plan your next weekend getaway on Highway 1. The coast gets cold, so remember to bring layers of clothing!

Thinkstock Thinkstock

San Simeon Just north of San Simeon, is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, where visitors can see a close up view of hundreds of elephant seals basking in the sun, elephant pups learning to swim, or males sparring.

October is one of the months where the number of seals on the beach peaks, and the young-of-the-year can be seen on the beach before they leave for winter.

Also in San Simeon visit the Elephant seals at Piedra Blancas Hearst Castle for the special night tour that is only offered in fall. On Friday and Saturday evenings during October, November, and December, the night tour takes visitors back to the 1930s. The docents are wearing 30sstyled garb and make you feel like you are one of William Hearst’s guests. The tour goes through some of the guesthouses and rooms where Hearst entertained his guests, such as the Assembly Room, Library, Billiard Room, and dining hall. Visitors can also watch a movie in Hearst’s theater where he watched a film with his guests every night. It is a unique experience to see the castle come alive at night.

250 San Simeon Ave. Suite 3B San Simeon, CA 93452 805-924-1628 elephantseal.org 750 Hearst Castle Road San Simeon, CA 93452-9740 805-927-2000 hearstcastle.org

The Lone Cypress on the 17-Mile Drive

Thinkstock

The Point Sur lighthouse at sunset.

Big Sur Big Sur is an amazing coastal region between Carmel and San Simeon where you get a combination of beach and forest. There are many places to camp such as the Limekiln State Park, a beautiful campsite with some spots on the beach and others nestled in the redwoods. The park has two easy, but scenic, hiking trails that go to Limekiln Falls and giant kilns that were used to produce limestone in the 19th century. Also in Big Sur, visit the Point Sur Lighthouse, which sits atop volcanic rock and is the only complete lighthouse of its era open to the public in California. There are walking tours to the light station and you can climb to the top of the lighthouse. From the top you might see whales in the ocean and California Condors in the sky as you look along the Big Sur coastline.

Highway 1 Big Sur, CA 93920 (831) 667-2100 bigsurcalifornia.org

Carmel Carmel is a quaint coastal town with artistic history and beautiContinued on page 94

Photo courtesy of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

The Giant Dipper rollercoaster at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Continued from page 93

ful sights. There are many shops, art galleries, and restaurants in the town to enjoy. Then just three miles south of Carmel is the Point Lobos State Reserve, which was called "the greatest meeting of land and sea in the world" by a famous landscape artist, Francis McComas. The reserve has more than 250 species of animals and 300 species of plants to see. There are short trails through the Cypress forest leading to hidden coves, beaches, and overlooks where you can see seabirds, sea otters, sea lions, deer, bobcats, and possibly whales. Also certified SCUBA divers can dive in the reserve and explore the rich underwater world. You can spend only a few hours here because the trails are short, but it would be easy to spend the whole day at this beautiful park.

Route 1 Box 62 Carmel, CA 93923-9753 831-624-4909 pointlobos.org

17-Mile Drive During your way up north on the coast, you can experience the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic 17-mile route that goes from Pacific Grove near Monterey to Pebble Beach near Carmel. As you drive along the shoreline, you will pass beautiful lookouts, famous golf courses and mansions. Some of the drive’s 25 points of interest, include the Lone Cypress, which has been perched upon jagged rocks for 250 years, Fanshell Overlook where harbor seals love to go, Spanish Bay, a good shoreline picnic spot, and the Lodge at Pebble Beach. Because you drive along private roads, you have to pay a toll, but it is a picturesque trip worth 94

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October 2011

The Law Office of David A. Torres

taking.

Pebble Beach, CA 93953 pebblebeach.com/activities

© Monterey Bay Aquarium/Randy Wilder

Monterey The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a family-friendly aquarium with incredible exhibits. More than 1.8 million people visit the aquarium annually, but fall is one of the best times to avoid the crowds. The aquarium has the largest living aquarium Kelp Forest at 28 feet tall. The Open Sea, the aquarium’s largest exhibit, reopened in July and shows Green sea turtles, sharks, tunas, puffins, and jellyfish through a 90-foot window. Other exhibits in the aquarium show hot pink flamingos, seahorses, sea otters, penguins, and a Giant Pacific Octopus. There is also an area dedicated for children with special exhibits and activities. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium for an amazing display of marine animals.

886 Cannery Row Seahorse at the Monterey, CA 93940 Monterey Bay 831-648-4888 Aquarium montereybayaquarium.org

Continued on page 96

And Associates

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KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS Stretching The Truth

A question that is frequently asked by clients is “Can an officer lie to me?” Of course an officer can lie. In fact, stretching the truth is a frequently used tactic during an investigation, which is also known as a “ruse.”

With the growing popularity of shows such as CSI and Law and Order, society can get a better understanding of investigation tactics used by officers and use of falsehoods to get information is a commonly utilized tactic. Although it does not seem fair for an officer to untruthful, the justice system has deemed lying during an investigation as acceptable, which means statements given as a direct result of officer fabrications will be used as evidence.

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Not only do officers fabricate facts as a tactical tool, but they also may promise certain immunities during an investigation. The one thing to remember is an officer has no control over the prosecution of a case. That job is solely left in the hands of a prosecutor not an officer. An officer cannot promise that a criminal complaint will not be filed and an officer for sure cannot promise a lenient sentence.

If you or someone you know happen to be in the unfortunate circumstance of dealing with a criminal investigation always be aware. Before you speak to anyone, remember you have the right to an attorney and that right should be used because you never know when someone might be stretching the truth.

JUST REMEMBER: You ALWAYS have the right to a lawyer You DO NOT have to talk to anyone without a lawyer Anything you say can and probably WILL be used against you

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www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Continued from page 95

Santa Cruz The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is one of the few remaining seaside amusement parks in California. The boardwalk has rides, carnival games, food, and of course, the beach. The park is usually packed during summer time but is a perfect place to take children during the fall. Ride the Double Shot up 125 feet in the air and you can see a beautiful view of Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay. If you make it up to Santa Cruz, also stop by Lighthouse Point.

This is the northern border of Monterey Bay and hosts the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse. Over the cliff, you get a beautiful view of the bay and surfers riding the crashing waves in this famous surfing site. Monarch butterflies migrate to the point every year. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is in the lighthouse and traces more than 100 years of surfing history.

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— These are some of my favorite things to do on the Central Coast. For other things to do or to learn about lodging and dining in these areas go to centralcoast-tourism.com.

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PRIME FINDS

Kiss My Cowhide “Crystal Kiss”jeans

Slip them on, zip them up and take the ride. Now exclusively at Divaz Desirez, corner of Coffee and Hageman in the Vons Shopping center. 679-7278.

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A personalize trick or treat bowl

Duplicate this bowl on your own or join the adult class on Oct. 13 at 6:30pm.

Just $45 (includes studio time, and firing). Color Me Mine at the Marketplace, 664-7366, www.bakeOctrsfield.colormemine.com.

Color Me Mine

Mouth-watering toffee

“Travelwalker” by Propet

They’re colorful, comfortable, lightweight and the most reasonably priced walking shoe you can imagine. These remarkable shoes available at Guarantee Shoe Center — downtown only $65.

Guarantee Shoe Center 98

Bakersfield Life

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Fine handmade English toffee made by Aunt Mae’s Sweet. Available at Luigi’s, Olcotts, Sweet Surrender and San Joaquin Hospital Gift Shop. Call 725-5200 or visit auntmaessweettooth.com.

Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth

Trick and treat!

Trick them with a Hotlix Scorpion Sucker. Treat them with a Hotlix Cherry Sucker. Find what your looking for at Lil B’s Sweet Tooth — the sweetest spot at The Marketplace. 9000 Ming Ave., Suite H4. 665-8500.

Lil B’s Sweet Tooth

Happy Halloween

Biscuit Boutique & Doggy Spa has many Halloween costumes available. Hurry in for Halloween treats and toys for your four-legged trick-or-treaters too! 1617 19th St., 321-9602

Biscuits Boutique & Doggy Spa

Milagros

Little miracles with special meanings. Each one handcrafted, goldplated and exquisite! A variety of designs. Only at Kuka's! 1609 19th St. 325-0000.

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We made this alderwood console to match the other furniture in the room. Call us at 836-8747 or visit us at MunozCabinets.com.

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www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Walk to Defeat ALS Kick Off Party Sept. 10 Held at the home of Tom and Lisa Ewing Photos by Ashley Reyes View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Michael Gagner and Stacy Inman

Katie Kleier, Kevan Hensman and Martha Keysaw

Daniel, Tom, and Lisa Ewing and Thomas Browder

Greg and Linda Gilli and Lorna McWilliams

Angie Thorpe, Ruth Gentelia, Mike McWilliams and Barbara Rycerski

Anna and Leanne Lindsley, Nancy Terry, Linda and Dennis Joe and Susan Schramm, Katie Price, Dawn Dobie, Simona Othart, Greg Rhoten and Tanya Boone-Holladay Beason, Elizabeth and Tammy Bertey

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(855) 393-2840 www.motorcitywest.com

2011 Walk to End Alzheimer's Sept. 10 Held at The Park at River Walk Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Teresa Irvin and Tammy Hurtado

Mary Jane Macalintal and Theresia Torczon

April Gregerson, Melani Valderrama, and Allison Mathiowetz

Tammi Miller, Knox Perryman and Tori Miller-Perryman

Opal Morland, Angel Conrad, Christina Villalobos and Nohemi Martinez

Aracely Buto and Teresa Orozco

Kathy Daniels, Dawn Romero and Jackie Patterson

Maria Alvarez and Monica Ricardo

Village Fest Sept. 10 Held at Stramler Park Photos by Robert Bejil View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com Steve Eisen and Chris Nguyen perform with Soulajar

Madison Wakefield, Brittney Papion and Madison Schock

Tony Terrasas, Raul Cerda, Elizabeth Cerda, Lucy Robinson

Glen Tolle, Marissa Aguilera, Ashlea Ward and Christina Perez

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Soulajar drummer Brian Boozer

Scott Nelson and Elyse Munoz

(855) 393-2840 www.motorcitywest.com

Latination Tr3s Sept. 2 Held at The Metro Galleries Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com Luz Donahue and Stephen De Sylva

Wavie Steele and Mary Helen Barro

Karen DeWalt and Don Bonnar

Eva, Joaquin and Felisa Patino

Wendy Wayne, Gene Tackett and Don Martin

Carmel and Tom Castro

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Judi and Rob McCarthy, Susan Reep, and Mark Smith www.BakersfieldLife.com 103

St. Baldrick’s Bakersfield Sept. 10 Held at The Prime Cut Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Garrett and Ken Hutchins

Jason Mears and Charles Wright

Laurie Lerwick and Tim Caughron

Alexis and Merv Crist, Lorretta Baer

Katie Hutchins, Nick Assaturian and Kacey Tatsuno

Jerry and Kathy Moyer

Alberta Dougherty, Sgt. Ken Smith, and Betty Ann Mitchell

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Is your home value up side down?

Short Sale -vs- Foreclosure CALL FOR FREE ADVICE Sheeza Gordon 661-472-2761

email: Sheeza@sheezagordon.com Information subject to change without notice. All Loans subject to credit approval and certain restricts may apply.

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Alzheimer's Disease Association of Kern County Golf Classic Sept. 9 Held at Rio Bravo Country Club Photos by Felix Adamo View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com Becky Pruitt and Bobbie Mebane

Joy Byrom and Donna Jones

Harshad Patel and S. Patel

Ruth Saenz and Rick Lopez

Donny Youngblood and Harry Fenske

Gary Pruitt, Steve Eucce, Rick Logsdon and Justin Gowdy

Liz Money, Gael Rohrer, Kim Barrett and Sofie Zimmermann

Camellia Cortez, Melissa Medina, Renee Varner, Mike Hill and Wendy Burnett

Lee Gilley, Herman Manibusan and Darin Jeffries www.BakersfieldLife.com 105

Tangerine “Fashion’s Night Out” Sept. 8 Held at The Marketplace Photos by Ashley Reyes View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Sarah Philips and Leighann Milazzo

Felix Adamo, Josie Kouyomjian and Teresa Adamo

Felicia Do, Michelle Yacoub and Pauline Tran

Gloria Pina-Acuna and Cathy Cassidy

Luisa Williams, Carolina Lopez and Maria Gil

Josie Kouyomjian, Ashley Zaragoza and Kathleen Kelsey

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Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm Sat 10am - 4pm

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Support the Troops Motorcycle Ride

Cindi and Gary Barbour and Kelly Woodhouse

Matt, Miah and Will Pitcher

Jose Tamez and Lynette Myers

Robert and Pat Sandrini

Kelly Woodhouse, Andrew Miles, Rick Henry and Roger Payne

Sept. 11 Held at Bakersfield Leather & Accessories Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Kabe and JR McClenny

Sherry and Mark Kirsch, Marianne and Dennis Brown and Terry Yeargan

Gayle Hafenstein, Debi Twisselman, Wendy Porter and Ricardo Ybarra www.BakersfieldLife.com 107

Native Daughters of the Golden West 161st Birthday Luncheon Sept. 9 Held at Hungry Hunter Restaurant Photos by Ashley Reyes View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Lurine Webb, Jean Hoffmann

Sandee Senior, Darleen Carpenter and Chris Kildare

Ruth Jacobus, Mary Pritchard and Nancy Jabobus

Phyllis Hensley, Ethel White and Doris Shaffer

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Specializing in Social Security Disability Law (661) 322-1761 901 Tower Way Suite #202 Bakersfield CA 93309

THE LAST WORD

Jason Gutierrez Director of marketing Bakersfield Museum of Art Making your mark: There are two accomplishments I am especially proud of. Training and completing my first International Distance Triathlon last year and this year training and completing AIDS Life Cycle (560 mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles in seven days). You learn a lot about yourself before, during and after events like these. You learn your fears, and you learn how to overcome them. You learn what you're made of!

A job like no other: The Bakersfield Museum of Art team is phenomenal and highly creative. I'm excited to build the museum's reputation and visibility in the community. There are a lot of great things happening here that I think most of the community will want to be a part of. I've been on the BMOA board of directors for three years and was captivated by the dedication of the staff and the board. This is a group of people that want to make a difference in the culture and entertainment in Bakersfield - something I equally believe in.

Find your passion and help others: The best piece of advice someone has given me came from Rick Jacobs, founder of The Courage Campaign during a freelance interview I did.

He said, "Make sure you are doing something that is helpful to other people, not just something you want to do.” This might sound cliché but its advice that I was told once and has stayed with me to this day and that is, ‘Do what you love and the money will follow; don’t follow the money.’ I truly believe in this! Thanks Rick!

CrossFit Original: Something few people know about me is that I'm one of the original members of Crossfit Bako. They started in 2008 and I was one of their first clients. I didn't really like working out before, but CrossFit and meeting/training with Jackie Warner completely changed my life.

Simply Monterey: My favorite getaway is to relax and really find a happy balance of mind, body and spirit. I like to escape to Monterey. It's a fantastic place that I have been going to since I was a toddler and has held a special place in my heart.

Photo by Jessica Frey

Superheroes and family in my book: On my bookshelf you will find Every X-Men graphic novel ever printed and pictures of my friends and family!

Too many choices of great food to choose from!: My favorite places to have lunch and not just the weekend is Luigi's, Mama Roomba, Valentien, Uricchio's, Woolgrower's, Narducci's, Sequoia and Juicy Burger! www.BakersfieldLife.com 109

SJCH is your home for cardiac and stroke care.

Chest Pain Center: When it comes to your heart, what you eat and how you live matters.

But did you know your hospital of choice matters too? As an Accredited Chest Pain Center, we have protocols in place that ensure we’re ready for you right when you need us. Don’t play games with your heart: If you’re experiencing chest pain, choose the hospital that’s one step ahead. Choose San Joaquin Community Hospital.

Stroke Center: It’s simple, really. If you’re suffering a stroke, time lost is brain lost.

Make sure you know the signs and symptoms – numbness on one side of the body, trouble walking and sudden confusion, for example. Next?

Make sure you get care at the hospital that brought Bakersfield its first Nationally ll Certified C ifi d Stroke Center: San Joaquin Community Hospital.

And they’re all under one roof!

Only one hospital between Los Angeles and San Francisco has both a Nationally Certified Stroke Center and Nationally Accredited Chest Pain Center under one roof. The choice is clear: If you think you’re having a stroke or heart attack, call 911 and tell the ambulance to take you to San Joaquin Community Hospital.

661-395-3000 www.sjch.us

The new Happy Meal® doesn’t fall far from the tree.

Made for you at your locally owned and operated Bakersfield McDonald’s.

At participating McDonald’s. ©2011 McDonald’s.

Drive Away in Your New Honda with Zero Down!

2012 Accord LX Sedan Lease

CP2F3CEW 5Spd AT

$0 due at lease signing, $0 down payment,$0 first months payment

2011 CR-V 2WD LX Lease RE3H3BEW 5Spd AT

FEATURED SPECIAL LEASE: Closed end lease for 2012 Accord Sedan 5 Speed Automatic LX (CP2F3CEW) available from September 7, 2011 through October 31, 2011, to well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings.

MSRP $22,950.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $22,251.13. Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. Total monthly payments $8,750.00. Option to purchase at lease end $13,770.00. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by October 31, 2011. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

Financing

2011 Odyssey LX Lease RL5H2BEW 5Spd AT

FEATURED SPECIAL LEASE: Closed end lease for 2011 CR-V 5 Speed Automatic 2WD LX (RE3H3BEW) available from September 7, 2011 through October 31, 2011, to well-qualified lessees

approved by Honda Financial Services.

Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings. MSRP $22,705.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $22,459.02. Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. Total monthly payments $9,450.00. Option to purchase at lease end $13,850.05. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by October 31, 2011. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

FEATURED SPECIAL LEASE: Closed end lease for 2011 Odyssey 5 Speed Automatic LX (RL5H2BEW) available from September 7, 2011 through October 31, 2011, to well-qualified lessees

approved by Honda Financial Services.

Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings. MSRP $28,885.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title fees, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $28,270.64. Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. Total monthly payments $12,950.00. Option to purchase at lease end $17,331.00. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by October 31, 2011. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.

4500 Wible Road

834-6632 Se Habla EspaĂąol

www.barberhonda.com

56

Years of Serving Kern County

Special APR offer valid on new and unregistered 2011 Odysseys, 2011 CR-Vs, 2012 Accords from September 7, 2011 through October 31, 2011, to well qualified buyers and buyers that qualify for the Honda Graduate Program criteria. on approved credit by Honda Financial Services through participating dealers. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by October 31, 2011. Not all buyers may qualify. Higher rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings. Example for 2011 Odyssey: 0.9% for 36 months financing at $28.16 a month for every $1,000.00 financed. Dealers set actual prices. See your Honda dealer for details.