Bakersfield Life Magazine September 2010

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September 2010

Party at the Padre Grand-opening gala for downtown gem

The Great outdoors

4 must-see area trails

Bakersfield Love 20 greatest things about our town

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Special 16-page section

www.bakersfieldlife.com

T HE B E S T L O C AT I O N S

T H E B E S T VA L U E

THE B E S T PARKS

THE B E S T POOLS

VILLAGE GREEN

Homes from the low $200’s Stockdale Hwy. & Renfro Rd. 661-387-6427 VillageGreenToday.com

UNIVERSITY PARK

LIBERTY

Homes from the high $100’s Ming Ave. & Gosford Rd. 661-663-3810 UniversityParkHomes4Sale.com

BRIGHTON PARKS

Homes from the low $200’s Stockdale Hwy. & Jewetta Ave. 661-829-1775 BrightonParks.com

Homes from the mid $100’s Panama Ln. & Ashe Rd. 661-836-6623 LibertySilverCreek.com

THE VILLAS at Seven Oaks

Homes from the high $400’s Ming Ave. & Grand Lakes Ave. 661-665-0683 TheVillasAtSevenOaks.com

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WE’RE ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT YOU

Keeping a community happy and healthy isn’t easy. We know that.

And we know it takes more than a hospital to do it. It takes partners who care as much about the welfare of Kern County as we do.

That’s why Bakersfield Memorial Hospital seeks out great organizations that help us help you. Like Children’s Miracle Network, which raises millions for the kids who come to us for medical care.

Kohl’s Cares for Kids, which donates profits from merchandise to programs that help young people avoid injuries, diabetes, asthma and

obesity. And Ronald McDonald House Charities, which offers families a nice place to stay on campus when their children are hospitalized.

This community built our hospital back in the 1950s—and you can rest assured that we’ll always be here for you. Building partnerships to help us serve the community we all live in….every minute, every day.

So, if you’ve got concerns, ideas, or plans for the well-being of the community we all love...It’s OK. We want to hear from you.

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Photo by Tanya X. Leonzo

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SPECIAL SECTION

Health & Wellness

Summer — and swimsuit season — has drawn to a close, but there are still plenty of reasons to stay in shape.

Our Health & Wellness section shares some quick calorie counts on how to feel the burn even when you’re not at the gym. To keep your mind fit, we have a list of great brain foods to keep everything in tip-top shape. We also have a local resource guide packed with information on fitness centers, senior needs, health food stores and spas and a look at the wonderful work of local hospice providers.

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Things we love about Bakersfield

Local sports, hard-working nonprofits, long-lasting businesses, the Basque food, Mexican cuisine, the chic boutiques… We know there is so much to love about Bakersfield that we’ve dedicated an entire feature to it. From our rich local history to our grand plans for growth, our city with small-

town roots is worth celebrating, and we’re giving you 20 reasons why you should, too!

50

Hit the local trails

One of the things we love about our community is the abundance of trails suited for hikers, cyclists and runners.

Local fitness pro Sally Baker takes us out on some popular paths that will have you raring to lace up and join the fun.

54

Celebrating the Padre

What happens when you combine a beloved local landmark with hip hoteliers with a dream? Some might say magic.

After changing hands following the death of storied owner Spartacus Miller, the Padre Hotel landed in the hands of a different Miller, Brett, who in six months has already made it a hot downtown nightspot. To celebrate the majestic return of the Padre, a gala is set for this month.

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S E P T .

2 0 1 0

D E PA R T M E N T S 12 Happenings

From Carrie Underwood to the fair, there's plenty in store this month.

13 It's Named After

Learn more about Sam Lynn, the man behind our ballpark.

18 Real People

Bobby Sox Softball League director Kathy Bess finds true happiness in sport and her players.

Photo by Rodney Thornburg

20 History

Kern County Fair's early start began a few miles from its current spot.

23 Food and Wine

Wasabi salmon. Braised short ribs.

Mahi mahi with lobster butter. We’ll tell you who’s serving these delights this fall.

26 Talk of the Town

George Martin plans for a bigger and better Business Conference.

28 Dining Divas

Our ladies toast their final dining adventure at the Oak Room at Seven Oaks Country Club.

34 Going Green

Greenshops' owners suggest how to get rid of the "toxic soups" in our homes.

36 On the Red Couch

What do Leonardo DiCaprio, Donald Trump and Ben Hogan have in common? Ask our women golfers.

58 Pastimes

The arrival of the Kern County Fair means it's time for some great food.

60 Home & Garden

Seeing is believing. Check out the advantages of artificial turfs.

62 Community

Habitat for Humanity makes homeownership a reality for those needing a hand.

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

64 Tech Watch

Bright House Networks executive Danielle Wade shares what piece of technology she can't live without.

67 Why I Live Here

Kristi Trahan shares how much she and husband Justin love living in northwest Bakersfield.

68 Entertainment

Roots rocker Ryan Bingham returns home, in some ways.

70 Personality

Scarlett Sabin embraces fulfilling role as house manager for local Ronald McDonald House.

72 Trip Planner

A trip along El Camino Real proves to be worth the drive.

78 SNAP!

Just who were the cutest babies in town? Find out here.

86 Last Word

Christy Porter, wife of NFL pro Joey Porter, talks family and giving back.

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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 Vice President Sales, Marketing, Circulation & Operations John Wells Advertising Director Bryan Fahsbender Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Editor Stefani Dias Art Direction Glenn Hammett Photography Felix Adamo Henry A. Barrios Brevin Blach Casey Christie Michael Fagans Jessica Frey John Harte Matt Jones Doug Kessler Greg Nichols Tanya X. Leonzo Jan St. Pierre Carla Rivas Andrea Scott Rodney Thornburg Sean Work Contributing writers Sally Baker Hillary Haenes Lisa Kimble Chelley Kitzmiller Dana Martin Matt Munoz Jeff Nickell Gabriel Ramirez Caroline Reid Interns Allie Castro Lauren Antongiovanni 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 The Padre Hotel lights up the nighttime downtown scene.. Open six months, the hotel is celebrating its official grand opening with a gala event this month.

Photo by Brevin Blach

10

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

There’s no place like home Like some of you, my family and I recently returned from a nice getaway to the beach and some beautiful towns in Southern California where the temperatures held steady at 68 degrees.

And while my oldest boys sighed at the thought of saying good-bye to our summer travels, I was pretty happy about it.

I missed my town, my extended family and friends, and, yes, my comfy home.

I know the summer heat can be a bit overbearing at times, forcing some of us to question why we live here in the first place. But this born-and-bred Bakersfield gal loves her city.

That’s why I am excited about this issue in which we feature 20 greatest things about Bakersfield.

No town is perfect, but Bakersfield sure has a nice list of reasons to be loved and celebrated.

I’ll give you a few examples: Hometown sports pride: We have a growing list of athletes who have taken their abilities to a higher, professional level. Frank Gifford, Joey Porter, Kevin Harvick, Johnny Callison and more.

(One of the latest being Ryan Mathews, the running back rookie who plays for my favorite team, San Diego Chargers).

Long-lasting businesses: Businesses come and go, but there’s nothing that makes your heart feel better than seeing a longtime business celebrate anniversaries anywhere from 60 to 100 years old.

We are a giving town: Despite the economic downturn, there are many residents who find ways to give to charities or causes that benefit our town, whether it comes from their pocket or through the true spirit of volunteerism.

I could go on but I don’t want to give away the story. Read inside for yourself and tell me what you think.

Our access to the great outdoors is another reason to love Bakersfield, and

we have something for you trail buffs.

Local fitness expert (and a woman I definitely admire) Sally Baker writes about a couple of area locations that are worth exploring, whether you’re a walker, runner, hiker or cyclist.

Check out Sally’s story, with tips from some local trail veterans, inside.

Last but not least, I would like to recognize our Dining Divas, whose last food adventure (to the Oak Room at Seven Oaks Country Club) is showcased this month.

The Divas — Aimee Williamson, Whitney Rector, Wendy Horack and Lori Ritchie — have done some wonderful work during their 16-month stint with our magazine. They devoted their own time to review some great restaurants in town and even played host to “guest divas.”

Their reviews entertained, provided wonderful insights into the local cuisine culture, and showed us that enjoying a meal with a group of dear, close friends is priceless.

Divas, you will be missed.

Readers, I would like to mention that we will have another set of Divas to entertain you, and their identities will be revealed soon. Stay tuned.

We also have a set of Food Dudes — David Luter, Bill Trivitt, Chris Hanson and Kevin McCloskey — who will be reviewing local spots as well.

You can get a glimpse into who they are by reading their take this month on the food at the Kern County Fair, which kicks off Sept. 22.

Enjoy.

Photo by Tanya X. Leonzo

September 2010 / Vol. 4 / Issue 12

Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 ogarcia@bakersfield.com

HAPPENINGS

WEEK 1

Can’t-miss events in September

Find more community events at BakersfieldLife.com or email us yours: bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com.

Thur. 2

Fri. 3

Fri. 3

Asia, 8 p.m., Fox Theatre, 2001 H St. $25 to $50. vallitix. com or 324-1369.

“Latination II,” opening reception, 5 to 9 p.m. Metro Galleries. 6349598.

First Friday, featuring live music, art openings, specialty shops, galleries and boutiques, 6 to 8 p.m., Downtown Arts District. 634-9598.

Sat. 11

WEEK 4

WEEK 3

WEEK 2

VillageFest: Party of the Year, 6 to 10 p.m., Kern County Museum. $65. 3232739.

Mon. 12

Mon. 13

Gretchen Wilson, 7 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

328-7560.

31st annual Arthritis Association Golf Tournament, 11 a.m. complimentary range, noon barbecue lunch, 1 p.m. shotgun start; Bakersfield Country Club. $150 per person. 322-9411.

Carrie Underwood performs at the Rabobank Convention Center Wednesday, Sept. 29.

Sun. 19

Sun. 19

Tue. 21

Wed 22

Thur. 23 Thur. 23

Blue October, 7 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $24 to $39. vallitix.com or 324-1369.

Fun in the Sun Car Show. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Kern County Museum. 323-2739.

Je’Caryous Johnson’s Cheaper to Keep Her, 8 p.m., Rabobank Convention Center. $31 to $36. ticketmaster. com or call 800-745-3000.

Sept. 22 to Oct. 3 Kern County Fair, 2010 “Best in the West.” $8, $3 for children 6-12, free for children under 6; parking $5. 8334900.

Movie Night, “Snow White and the Three Stooges,” 7 p.m., Bright House Amphitheatre, the Park at River Walk. bhnamphitheatre. com or 852-7777.

Ralphie May, 7:30 p.m., Fox Theater. $33.50. vallitix.com or 324-1369.

WEEK 5

Wed. 29 Thur. 30

12

Carrie Underwood, with Billy Currington and Sons of Sylvia, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Convention Center. $34 to $54. ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Movie Night, “The Paradine Case,” 7 p.m., Bright House Amphitheatre, the Park at River Walk. bhnamphitheatre. com or 852-7777.

UUPP FRONT FRONT

It’s Named After

By Lisa Kimble

For 69 years, local baseball fans have enjoyed our national pastime in the same venue, an anomaly of a ballpark named after the man responsible for reviving interest in the sport and bringing a minor league team to town — but who never saw the inaugural pitch at the ballpark that bears his name.

Sam Lynn was a colorful figure, a businessman, sportsman and one-time state champion bowler who was passionate about many things, not the least of which was baseball. Born in Celina, Tenn., he moved to San Francisco in 1904. Two years later, he moved to Hollister where he met Odelia Hartmann. They married, and in 1907, the Lynns moved to Bakersfield where Sam joined the Police Department. The couple had two daughters, Dorothy and Berniece.

Several years later, Sam was working as a field salesman for Star Soda Works. In 1922, with some bottling business experience under his belt, Sam Lynn acquired the local Coca-Cola bottling company franchise. He bottled in the mornings and sold in the afternoons.

Odelia did the books. Success soon followed and allowed Lynn to donate money to youth baseball leagues, including the Bakersfield Coca-Colas, a semi-professional baseball team.

Sam Lynn dreamed of bringing organized baseball to town. In 1938, he teamed up with San Francisco Seals president Charlie Graham to create the California State League, of which Bakersfield became a charter member. It would be another three years before the Bakersfield Badgers would throw the opening pitch. Four months

The Pulse:

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

Sam Lynn Ball park

before the ballpark's inaugural season, Lynn died in a New York hospital. He was 63.

Today, Sam Lynn Ball Park, located on Chester Avenue, remains the oldest of the Class-A Advanced California League. The venue is one of only two ballparks in organized professional baseball where the batter faces west, directly into the setting sun. Some 200 current and former major league players, including Hall of Famer Don Drysdale, Pedro Martinez and Mike Piazza, have honed their skills at Sam Lynn before moving on to fame and glory in the majors. Over the years, the home team has also been known as the Indians, Boosters, Bears and Dodgers. Since 2005, the Bakersfield Blaze team has been affiliated with the American League's Texas Rangers.

What’s hot and what’s not this month in Bakersfield

WHAT’S HOT

WHAT’S NOT

Sending our kids to college

Traffic jams

It's back-to-school time, and Bakersfield prides itself in sending many of its students to college. Both CSUB and BC, as well as many far-and-away universities, will be welcoming our young, bright minds.

Ripken World Series

Much love to the Northwest Bakersfield All-Stars youth teams that competed in the Cal Ripken World Series in Aberdeen, Md. We have some superstar talent in the works.

Got sports gear?

Dick's Sporting Goods plans to open its first Bakersfield store at the Northwest Promenade soon. The company has signed a 10-year lease. Dick's sells sports equipment, apparel and footwear at 424 stores in 41 states.

Construction going on over much of the city’s highly traveled roads in order to work on the new cross-town freeway causes delays and road rage.

Burglars prey on our neighborhoods

There’s been a rash of burglaries in various local neighborhoods, including La Cresta, Bakersfield Country Club, Old Stockdale, and Westchester.

Wells drying up in Rosedale

Rosedale district officials say that massive pumping operations by the Kern Water Bank and Kern County Water Agency were draining away Rosedale’s groundwater, causing community wells to dry up and leaving homes with only an trickle of emergency water for toilets.

www.BakersfieldLife.com

13

UP FRONT

Short Takes

BY THE NUMBERS: parks and trails

54 474 140,546 50 number of parks in Bakersfield

residents who used reserved areas in the parks in 2008

acres of park in Bakersfield

miles of trails used for biking, walking and hiking

44

number of picnic and barbecue areas in parks

Ways to Beat the heat

“

Division I is not

just about athletics.

It's about institution relationships, associa-

Even though the leaves are just starting to turn in much of the country, here in Bakersfield we’re still melting in summerworthy temperatures.

Fall is nearly at the door, but here are a few ideas to help you beat the heat until it gets here.

Go to a movie Watching a movie can help you beat the heat and keep you cool while doing so. For example, Edwards Theater at The Marketplace sets its auditorium thermostat at an inviting 70 degrees.

Hit the ice Bakersfield Ice Sports Center hosts at least two public skate times every day. Not

only is the temperature kept at 50 degrees to keep the ice from melting, the inevitable sprawl on the ice will be a treat.

Seek out the shaved ice Take advantage of the Sno Shacks and other shaved ice spots. Or you can opt for ice cream, which is available at hot spots Dewar’s, Rosemary’s and Moo Creamery all year long.

If all else fails, head out of town Take advantage of Bakersfield’s ideal proximity to several beaches, the evercooler L.A., and the mountains. Consider heading to Pismo Beach, Morro Bay or Big Bear, which have average summer highs of 75, 65 and 80 degrees, respectively.

tions, image, perceptions that helps define not only the university but our greater Bakersfield community.

”

— Rudy Carvajal, CSUB's athletic director, in reference to CSUB attaining full Division 1 status.

14

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

The Ultimate Bridal Event Calling all blushing brides-to-be: Put on some comfy shoes and head out to the Ultimate Bridal Event on Sept. 19. Running from noon to 4 p.m., this premier event aims to address all the needs of Bakersfield’s engaged couples looking to take the stress out of wedding planning. From bridal apparel to florists to venue operators, vendors will be on hand at Rabobank Convention Center to offer the best photographers, wedding planners, caterers and more. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, but prepare to rest

your feet watching the fashion show, which will feature the newest wedding styles as well as suggestions for accessories, hair, and make-up. Make sure to show up early as special prizes and giveaways are offered to the first brides who walk through the door, with the big giveaway being a $10,000 wedding trunk. Tickets are $8 for brides, $10 general admission, and a $15 combo for brides and grooms. For more information, visit ultimatebridalevent.com or call 835-1305.

So You Want To ...

Play fantasy football Set to score Points are awarded differently for offense and defense. In offense, points will be awarded for touchdowns, yards, completions, receptions and two-point conversions. Offensive players will be penalized for interceptions and lost fumbles. Kickers will get points for field goals and extra points scored. Defensive points are scored by defensive touchdowns, fumble recoveries, interceptions, safeties, sacks and points allowed.

Vying for victory Every team is matched up against a different team each week and whoever gains the most points between the two earns a win for the week. In some leagues, the team with the most points accumulated at the end of the 17-week season wins and single elimination takes place during weeks 14 to 16.

AUTHORIZED DEALER”

The dream team It may be called fantasy football, but you’re picking actual NFL players from any of the 32 pro NFL teams. As a team owner, you can trade or pick up available players from other owners throughout the season. An average of 10 to 12 teams will make up the fantasy league. Fantasy players should enter the draft with a strategy that will yield the type of players they have.

Time for the draft Owners will set a date for the official draft, which must take place before the season starts. The owner with the first pick can draft any player at any position or trade down if they want. Once a player is drafted, that player is off the board for future picks.

In the lineup Each week, teams must submit a starting lineup: one quarterback, two running backs, three wide receivers, one tight end, one kicker and one team defense. Before submitting the lineup, the owner should evaluate how well a player is performing, whom the weekly opponent is and if the player has any injuries. The lineup can’t be changed after the kickoff happens.

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15

Photo courtesy of Caroline Reid

OUR TOWN

Bakersfield Christian High School students in the Dominican Republic, from left, Megan McCormick, Natalie Ogden, Victoria Quillen and Paige Spalinger.

Local students volunteer in the Dominican

V

By Caroline Reid

ictoria Quillen and Megan McCormick, along with a group of Bakersfield Christian High School classmates and advisers, recently spent two weeks volunteering in an impoverished area of the Dominican Republic. The trip was through Students International (www.STINT.com). McCormick, a recent BCHS grad who’s been accepted at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, and Quillen, a BCHS senior, were assigned to assist physical-therapy patients who needed to learn muscle-strengthening techniques.

The volunteers were housed at “The Base” and bused to their

16

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

work sites. These young people, away from all the comforts of home, began at 7 a.m. with a group sing and 30 minutes of quiet time for Bible reading.

On the bus, they discussed their readings and energized each other for the workday. In the field, McCormick and Quillen worked with people of all ages under the supervision of SI (Students International) staff. They were at the clinic from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Spanish is the primary language in the Dominican Republic and the fluent Quillen was a student translator.

Some of their patients were stroke victims. Others were recover-

ing from broken bones. “Some people just hurt. We wanted to comfort them,” McCormick said. “It was our job to teach them ways to strengthen their bodies. We left having done what we went there to do. They ended up helping us, too. They are happy, humble, loving people who demonstrated to us what contentment is.”

Quillen added, “I could see that they are very happy without all the ‘extra stuff’ we have. There is so much singing and laughing. It’s a family-oriented country, and they care deeply about the family unit and their friends and neighbors.”

Both students agreed the trip changed their outlook on their own lives.

“Going there and seeing kids play baseball barefoot was an eye-opener,” McCormick said. “I always thought I had to have different shoes or a new glove to play better. I learned to appreciate what I have.

“Here if a kid doesn’t get the latest of everything, they think it’s the worst thing in the world. We are selfish and greedy and don’t even know it.”

Added Quillen, “Coming home, I’ve tried to live without wanting more than I already have. I learned that happiness is not stuff. They do very well without baseball shoes, expensive clothes and an iPod. They don’t even know what an iPod is.”

Quillen was impressed with how much Dominican youth love their country and family.

“As far as education goes,” she said, “they don’t expect more than high school. College is a huge privilege. They love their homeland but some want to go to college in America because they hope they will have more opportunities for a better life.

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REAL PEOPLE

Bobby Sox coach Kathy Bess and "her girls,” a collection of grandchildren and board members' children. Front row, from left: Jessie Farris, 8; Regan Bess, 3; and Ryleigh Bess, 5. Second row, from left: Minuet Comstock, 11; Ireland Comstock, 8; and Brooke Blake, 8. Back row, from left: Tori Farris; 14, Kathy Bess, holding Karlie Blake, 1; and Hannah Howell, 10.

Hitting a home run Softball league director passionate about sport, youth

K

By Gabriel Ramirez athy Bess has two jobs, both revolving around the well-being and enrichment of children.

By day, she runs Bess Day Care. And when the parents pick up their children, Bess leaves her home to go where more children are playing

ball.

Bess is the director of Bakersfield’s Bobby Sox Softball League. Her schedule requires that she head out to the softball

18

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

fields at 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 6:30 a.m. on Saturdays to interact with the young girls in the league and their parents.

“A typical day for me consists of talking to parents, coaches and managers on the phone and answering a never-ending list of questions,” Bess said.

Bess admits she never played softball herself when growing up but got involved with the softball league 26 years ago when

P R E S E N T S her daughters started playing at the age of 4. They continued it through high school.

Bess currently has three granddaughters who play for the league, and she has been serving as director of the league for 20 years, replacing June Hess when she retired.

“The best thing about my job is all of the kids playing softball. They are all like my own,” Bess said. “We are like a family.”

Many of the girls who have played in the league over the years have also been raised through Bess Day Care.

“Some of these girls are now grown up and have girls for their own who are now playing Bobby Sox,” Bess said.

Bess said the fondest memory she has while working with the league happened during her battle with cancer when many of the young girls and their parents stepped up to the plate for her.

“Ten years ago, I was a cancer survivor, and a lot my parents and their girls put together a Relay for Life team for me,” Bess said. “They walked and supported me as a survivor.”

Bess said that while she enjoys what she does for the league, the hardest part of her job is trying to please everyone.

“I’m not sure what I would be doing if I weren’t involved with Bobby Sox,” Bess said. “Bobby Sox, along with my daycare, kids and grandkids are my life.”

On her free time, Bess likes to sew, paint, and spend time with her grand kids and travel.

“The hugs and smiles I get from my Bobby Sox girls is all the gratification I need from running this organization.”

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19

HISTORY

Unidentified driver at the racetrack in 1929.

A trip down to the old

Kern T County Fair

By Jeff Nickell, Director, Kern County Museum Photos courtesy of the Kern County Museum

he Kern County Fair has been a tradition that folks have enjoyed for decades. But, did you know that the old fairgrounds location was on Chester Avenue and built on what was once the Jewett Ranch? The Jewett Ranch pretty much covered the surrounding area, including where Memorial Hospital is located.

The northern border was the river with the southern border being the railroads tracks. The Jewett Brothers – Solomon and Philo – had their hands in most of the areas of commerce that helped to make Bakersfield what it is today.

They were involved in water, land ownership, agriculture, sheep, oil, and banking and possibly some I have left out. Philo Jewett, in his journals, takes credit for suggesting the young town be named Bakersfield all those years ago.

In 1913, the site changed dramatically. A huge au-

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Powers Leslie of the Bakersfield Badgers in 1941.

The racetrack, ballpark and fairgrounds in 1945. tomobile racetrack was built at that time with the Pan Pacific Road Race making a lap around the track before heading north to the finish line in Sacramento. The racetrack reportedly cost $100,000 to build, and city officials became a sponsor of the race for $5,000 to ensure the track would be a part of the race. Inside the huge, automobile racetrack, a rodeo arena was constructed. The large grandstand was just about where the northern part of Stramler Park is today.

I should mention that another event took place at the track. Silas Christofferson was the first to pilot a plane across the Tehachapi Mountains to Los Angeles on Feb. 16, 1914. A postcard that was included in the “Curtis Darling Postcard Collection,” which

I wrote with Don Arnot, shows his return trip to Bakersfield when he landed at the old racecar track on Chester Avenue near the Kern River in April of the same year. Nothing remains of the racetrack or the rodeo arena except for photos and the memories of folks who enjoyed what those venues brought forth for them. Of course, there may be remnants here and there, such as the pilasters that are located between the

museum and Stramler Park.

According to the Historic Chronology of Kern County, the first Kern County Fair held on the site was from Oct. 6 to 10 in 1925.

In 1926, the first of two large buildings was designed to be built on the site: one was the Exhibition Building for the Kern County Fair, and the other was the Kern County Chamber of Commerce. Both designed by Charles Biggar. The Exhibition Building was "the spot" to see wonderful exhibits from Kern County communities and business. And, when I say large, this building was large! Only about half of the building remains after a fire destroyed the other half in the 1980s. Today, the remaining 9,600 square feet serve as the Kern County Museum’s shop building where supplies are kept to maintain all of the buildings in Pioneer Village.

Given a place of honor at the fairgrounds was another massive structure. It was the Souther Ditch Plow, which was constructed to help dig Kern County canals. It was commissioned by Horatio Livermore and built by William Souther in Watsonville, then brought by train to Bakersfield. The plow, thought to be the world’s largest, was really as my son would say "an epic fail." Even so, it sat for all to see for years and years until the weather took its toll.

It was restored with funding from the Livermore family and is Continued on page 22

The Kern County Fair Association, 1913: Jack Jameson, Angus J. Crites, William Drury, Thomas Klipstein, Nat Solomon, Henry A. Jastro, Fred Gribble, Charles A. Barlow, Fred Gunther, George Haberfelde, and J. H. Tan. www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Continued from page 21

the transportation building at the museum.

(This building is only open a few times a year due to staffing.)

In 1941, Sam Lynn Ball Park brought professional baseball to Bakersfield. A number of teams have had their minor league franchises playing there throughout the years. For me, the most memorable were when the Bakersfield Dodgers played in our historic, yet outdated park. Players like Don Drysdale, Ron Cey and so many others played here in Bakersfield before making the big stage with many becoming World Series champions.

The fair site at the Chester Avenue site served the residents of Kern County well for a number of years before it was decided that the fair needed a new location.

In 1952, the Kern County Fair moved to its current location in South Bakersfield with Ming Avenue to the south and P Street to the west, Belle Terrace Avenue to the north, and Union Avenue to the east. Other than historic photos, this is the only fair I have known. It was always something I looked forward to in the hopes that our family would go. I have seen numerous concerts there, including George Strait, Kathy Mattea, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band,

The entrance to Pioneer Village in 1959.

(note the country music trend), among others.

Today, the old fairgrounds site known as the Metropolitan Recreation Complex is home to Sam Lynn Ball Park, the Dave Frye Softball Field, BMX Track, Slot Car Track, Stramler Park and the Kern County

Museum, and the Northwest Baseball Association (on the diamonds that used to be the Junior Baseball Association’s and where I played as a child and watched my older brothers play, not to mention being scared by a snake as I was playing behind the walls of Sam Lynn).

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FOOD AND WINE

On the

menu

this fall Local restaurants opt for richer dishes, comfort food as seasons change

Wasabi salmon mash potatoes and Asian slaw from the Hourglass Kitchen and Bar.

By Hillary Haenes

L

Photo by Rodney Thornburg

eaves haven’t blanketed the ground and that crisp chill isn’t in the air during September, making it difficult to determine when fall has officially arrived in Bakersfield, especially in 90-degree weather. But an early indicator of the seasonal change is in restaurants around town.

Continued on page 24 www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Continued from page 23

Several fine dining restaurants and casual eateries will soon transition their menus from light summer entrées to rich, comfort foods that warm the soul.

A restaurant with plans to serve its first fall cuisine in early October is Belvedere at the Padre Hotel. Bakersfield may be a meat-and-potatoes kind of town at heart, but Belvedere quickly learned a majority of its patrons enjoy delicate fish dishes — the restaurant’s No. 1 seller.

“We started flying fish in from Hawaii in March. We typically fly fish in two to three times per week,” said Lance Paik, executive sous chef.

Most of the time, the fish are delivered to Belvedere chefs no more than 72 hours after they’re caught. Winter fish like onaga (Hawaiian ruby snapper) will be seared and prepared with uni bisque (sea urchin roe) and served with okinawan, a purple sweet potato mash that’s draped with micro red shiso leaves. Macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi with lobster butter atop a bed of black imperial rice will transition nicely into Bakersfield’s warm fall.

Besides fish, executive chef Darrell Jensen and Paik, will serve meats like prime short ribs that are braised with an Italian au jus until tender or grilled lamb chops with mashed white beans and grilled zucchini sauced with chimichurri. Salads will be made using winter greens like fennel and deep arugula with pomegranate dressing.

“Our menu changes every few weeks so people won’t get bored coming here,” said Paik about preparing food on a chef’s whim.

For dessert, pastry chef Chelsea Johnson plans to create an apple tart tatin — an apple tart wrapped in a puff pastry paired with a caramel sauce and vanilla bean ice cream. For chocolate lovers, an Italian dark chocolate mousse with a hint of espresso and rum, covered in a chocolate glaze and served with berries, is a perfect dessert.

A restaurant that’s been changing with the seasons for years is 24

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Photo by Rodney Thornburg

Braised beef short ribs on top of mashed potatoes, baby carrots and covered with onion straws from the Hourglass Kitchen and Bar.

Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar. According to co-owner Jennifer Sanderson, the French bistro will debut its menu on Sept. 22, bringing items from past menus as well as new concoctions.

“In the summer people are typically more diet cautious. In the fall when it starts to cool down, you definitely want that feeling of warmth and comfort in your food with signature sauces, heartier sides, root vegetables and potatoes,” Sanderson said.

From peppered filet mignon, lamb in a gluten-free pomegranate reduction, to fish with a cream sauce — there’s something for everyone on Valentien’s menu. Butternut squash salad drizzled with a maple vinaigrette or pumpkin risotto appetizer evoke feelings of fall, while prosciutto-wrapped pork in a spiced apple beurre blanc, served with polenta is a great take on the seasonal transition. For adventurous eaters, an exotic meat dish (antelope, bison, ostrich or wild boar) will rotate every few weeks.

“We’re trying to get more involved with local independent growers and feature a specific farm every Friday,” Sanderson said.

Besides using produce from nearby farms, co-owner Jeramy Brown plans to introduce petite coffees and teas, comparable to a wine tasting. The flight of coffees and teas can be tasted every evening either at the table or bar. Smells of different aromas will be released from a French press right in front of customers. Figs mixed with caramels, apples and mascarpone will be used to make crepes among other tasty sweets.

Valentien recognizes people may be on a budget, often forgoing luxury items while dining out. With this in mind, Valentien will introduce sample sizing of many traditional high-ticket items, such as lobster. Instead of eating an entire entrée, people can have a taste with a starter plate that won’t hurt their wallets. Been wanting to try that $80 bottle of wine, but couldn’t spend the money?

Sample a glass with dinner or at the bar for $20.

Also feeling the approach of fall is Hourglass Kitchen and Bar, which, like Belvedere, will offer a braised short rib, this one

Photo by Sean Work

cooked for six hours and served over mashed potatoes with gravy, a side of spinach and baby carrots, all topped with onion straws.

“Our short rib is like the Flintstones. The bone is at one edge of the plate to the other edge — it’s awesome. People who come in and have an appetizer or two can share this dish,” said Paul Hurd, who runs the family business with his wife, Stephanie.

A few popular soup choices will include a pulled pork chile verde soup, clam chowder and a spicy heirloom tomato soup with a black bean and avocado relish.

Hourglass plans to have its fall menu out in September, and its specials will include not just Taco Tuesdays, but Taco Saturdays, where hungry eaters can get gourmet tacos for $2.50 each. On Thursdays, customers can sample the day’s featured wine for free and there will be a wine flight, which starts at $8, and patrons can choose three wines off the list.

Casual eateries like Moo Creamery and the Crest Bar and Grill will use seasonal produce to ensure the freshest flavors are used. At Moo, co-owner Richard Yoshimura said the arrival of the fall menu isn’t dependent on a set date but rather when weather changes, which dictates when certain vegetables are in season.

“Produce seems to be coming in later lately. We had a long spring, so it has not come to its full potential yet,” Yoshimura said.

When the seasonal vegetables and fruits are up to par, Yoshimura said butternut squash soup, a hearty French onion and beef stew will be served.

“We just reflect the season and focus on the autumn holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving with all the treats, flavors and colors that are associated with it,” Yoshimura said.

Nuts, caramel, maple and pumpkin flavors will be used for ice

Belvedere at the Padre Hotel will feature macadamia nutcrusted mahi mahi with lobster butter on black imperial rice on its menu. cream. Other desserts will include apple turnovers, apple-cranberry crisps, maple-flavored whoopie pies and bread puddings.

Within the next month or two, prepare to feast on meatloaf, beef stroganoff with noodles, beef stew and Manhattan clam chowder at the Crest and be sure to check out the restaurant’s weekly specials.

www.BakersfieldLife.com

25

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

Catching up with George Martin

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

Organizer of the Bakersfield Business Conference

Why was it important that this year’s revived conference held at CSUB? CSUB was the longtime home of the Bakersfield Business Conference, and over the years the attendees became quite attached to it. It allows for 35 acres of grass and, through the generous cooperation of AYSO, we will be able to build and present a garden setting with numerous tents that otherwise would not be possible. CSUB is our regional center of higher education and, therefore, a fitting venue for this event. Our original motto for the Business Conference was “Education Should Be Fun.” Why was the time right to bring the conference back?

During the five years, the conference has been dormant, the political and economic landscape of our country has changed significantly. Also, when we announced that we were discontinuing the conference, we were inundated with mail, e-mail and phone calls asking that we attempt to continue to have the conference even if less frequently. We decided that a five-year space between conferences allows for a more invigorated conference and discussion of new prevailing events in our society financially, socially and economically.

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September 2010

How will this conference be different from past events?

This year’s conference will have the informal outdoor patriotic atmosphere of past conferences at CSUB, but with more venues than in the past. For instance, as speakers are being presented in the main tent, which will hold approximately 10,000 people, speakers will also be making presentations in three other smaller tents that will hold from 150 to 750 people. While the main stage speakers are being presented, announcements will appear on large video screens stating who is about to speak in the smaller tents.

This gives folks in the main tent an opportunity to go to a smaller tent to hear a speech that will be five minutes less in length than the speeches in the main tent and get back to the main tent in time to hear the next speaker. The smaller tents, which also have nationally recognized speakers, allow people to have seats up close to the speakers even if their reserved seating is farther back from the main tent stage. Further, the smaller tents allow for Q-and-A, which is, of course, not manageable in the large tent. The first speakers in the smaller tents will speak from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. prior to the opening of the main stage event.

Every effort has been made to coordinate main stage speakers with smaller tent speakers so that different points of view are being

presented at the same time, and folks can choose which point of view they wish to hear and who they are most excited about seeing and hearing.

Which hot issues or topics do you expect to be prevalent this year?

We have put together a lineup of speakers who will address a broad range of topics including: the economic issues facing the nation and global community and the impacts on state and local governments; the impacts of changes in tax law with the sunsetting of current income taxes; global warming and environmental regulation; banking regulation; changes in health care delivery systems; immigration reform and national security; cap and trade regulations; card check and union legislation; pension reform; intellectual property issues facing businesses and individuals; state's rights versus Federalism; and simplifying government, including proposals for part-time state legislators.

The program also includes "How To" workshops on obtaining lending with meet-the-lenders panels and investors panels, as well as other "How To" business programs, including new changes in estate planning. These programs will be held in tents outside the main tent.

In addition to the more political, economic, and business parts of the program, there will be a number of motivational speakers who will be focusing the audience on the value of positive thinking and education in society, as well as understanding and appreciating those who are serving and have served in the military to protect our freedom.

Given the rise of social media sites and Internet accessibility, will this event be more accessible for those who can’t attend?

I am certain there will be a good number of bloggers who will be attending this year, as opposed to past conferences. There will, however, be restrictions on coverage since this is a private event.

What is the most challenging aspect of organizing the conference?

Finding the supplies, equipment, and materials necessary to construct a venue that is comfortable, accessible and enjoyable for our audience is very challenging. For instance, we have obtained the largest tent that one can rent in the United States and Canada; and many other aspects of the materials being brought in are coming from across the country. Getting the conference grounds built and torn down in three weeks is, indeed, a challenge.

Why is it important to include entertainers in the lineup?

The program is planned as a day to fondly remember. We want our guests to enjoy a live/interactive, bigger-than-life educational and recreational experience. The conference is about much more than politics, business and finance. It is about expressing the freedom of thought and association that comes from learning while having fun. Music makes the soul soar, humor keeps us anchored as we learn, and passionate speech is a thrill ride for our minds.

Picnics and refreshments fill our audience with energy so they

stay tuned in during the day. The audience is, of course, allowed to take a "recess" and go to the sports tent to check scores, walk the grounds, enjoy the ice cream pavilion, visit the beer garden, check out the Stars and Stripes Arcade where book signing and meetand-greet takes place all day, and get up front and personal with various personalities and celebrities during Q & A in the smaller tents.

The event is about making fun and enjoyable memories, and that is why the day starts with music and ends with music and fireworks. In between, the day will be filled with comedians, motivational speakers, and patriotic presentations by famous people we may never have the chance to see live and in person were it not for the conference, and entertainers help make the conference the one-of-a-kind experience that so many enjoy.

How has interest in this year’s event compared with that of past years?

The response has been overwhelming and much more than we anticipated. We started out over a year ago figuring that we might have 3,500 people and had actually looked at the Park at River Walk as a potential venue. It turned out that our first mailer to past registrants brought in close to 5,000 ticket purchases, and we knew at that time we had to find a larger venue. CSUB and AYSO were very accommodating in allowing us to reinvent the garden-like tent city we had in previous years at the college campus. We now have just over 9,000 paid attendees, and we can only accommodate 10,000 or so under requirements of the fire marshal. Therefore, this program will sell out.

Who is your all-time favorite speaker from any of the past events?

There have been so many, it is hard to choose one over the other, but I can tell you, based on our evaluations, Margaret Thatcher got the highest ratings of any speaker to step on the stage at the Bakersfield Business Conference.

Which speaker are you most looking forward to hearing this year?

My favorite speaker will undoubtedly be the surprise speaker coming at the end of the program. I believe that speaker will probably be the one that most folks will remember for the rest of their lives.

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27

D I N I N G D I VA S

Seven Oaks Country Club

Dining Divas Whitney Rector, Lori Ritchie, Aimee Williamson and Wendy Horack at Seven Oaks Country Club.

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

The final dish Our Dining Divas cap off their culinary adventures at the Oak Room at Seven Oaks Country Club Photos by Greg Nichols

A day at the club

Aimee: For our last Diva experience, we had the opportunity to spend the day at Seven Oaks Country Club. It started at 8 a.m. with nine holes of golf. I have never played golf before but was willing to go and sit in the cart and enjoy the beautiful course! We met up with Joe Haggerty, the golf pro at Seven Oaks (who I have been friends with for many years), and he gave us a few pointers. Wendy and Whitney were the golfers, and Lori and I were the caddies. I am not a very good caddy.

I didn’t drive the cart or keep score; I just drove around with my friends and enjoyed the day! After our golf game, we went to the Mixed Grille for a casual lunch. The staff at Seven Oaks is so friendly; everyone has a smile on their face and is ready to answer any questions. I had a salad that was so good, very fresh and full of flavor!

Lori: We enjoyed a morning of laughter and memorable golf swings on the beautiful course. I was the caddie for Whitney and scorekeeper. Aimee was supposed to be the caddie and scorekeeper for Wendy, but Aimee was a little annoyed that morning after she had borrowed a golf skirt from Wendy. It was about four inches too long, so needless to say she was not in a good mood. She did not drive the cart or even keep score for Wendy. The course is absolutely beautiful, and all the staff

Molten chocolate decadence cake

is so friendly. After golf, we had a salad at the Mixed Grille, a wonderful place to have a quick lunch. The salads were awesome.

Whitney: As soon as Wendy found out our next review was of Seven Oaks Country Club, she challenged me to a nine-hole golf game, with Aimee and Lori being our golf caddies. I began my golf career at Seven Oaks with my first golf lesson about 15 years ago. I highly recommend taking golf lessons at Seven Oaks. It’s beautiful, and Joe Haggerty, the lead golf pro, makes it super fun! I finished our game with a 48 and Wendy a 50, with Wendy having to buy everyone lunch! It was a red-letter day!

Wendy: If you are a golfer, tennis player or someone that enjoys socializing, then Seven Oaks is a great place to be. The staff is very friendly and the members are down-to-earth, good people. Mike and I have been members for over three years. Seven Oaks isn’t just a golfers’ hangout; it’s a great place for kids, too. There are many activities and events all year long. Membership status is becoming more affordable and worth it, if you are an active golfer or tennis player. The 27-hole course is absolutely the most beautiful course in Bakersfield. The plan was to play nine holes of “serious” golf. Our game started off with Whitney topping her ball and hitting Continued on page 30

Hawaiianstyle ahi poke

Chilean sea bass

Grilled rib-eye

Fresh pineapple brulee www.BakersfieldLife.com

29

Whitney Rector, Aimee Williamson, head golf pro Joe Haggerty, Wendy Horack and Lori Ritchie at Seven Oaks Country Club.

Continued from page 29

it about 20 feet off the tee. We laughed so hard! I knew at that moment today was going to be a “belly acher.” After our golf game, we had lunch in the Mixed Grille.

I ordered the chicken quesadilla. Grilled chicken and cheese in a flour tortilla served with avocado and salsa on the side. Simple and delish! There are lots of great choices on the menu there. Some favorites are fish tacos, Asian salad and New England clam chowder. There are lunch specials every day.

Boys allowed

Whitney: Seven Oaks knew it was our last Dining Diva review and graciously invited our husbands to dinner with us for a super send-off! Seven Oaks has a beautiful dining room that can be for a special occasion or for just a nice dining experience. They also offer a very casual grill for golfers and families that’s very popular and quite reasonable. We were invited to the Oak Room for our meal, and I was so excited since I had heard they have an outstanding chef who knows his way around seafood!

Wendy: Well we are going out with a bang, and the husbands are invited! It’s been 16 months of craziness and the Seven 30

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Oaks’ Oak Room is where it all ends! We were so fortunate to have Joe and Stacey Haggerty dine with us tonight. Joe is the course pro and the guy that brings a smile to your face every time you are in his presence. My husband has known Joe for over 30 years.

A decadent first course

Aimee: What a great way to finish... although I will continue to go out to eat with these crazy people I have as friends.

Of course, I knew exactly what I was going to have to eat, and I was pretty sure I knew what my husband was going to order. I started with a glass of the Rombauer cabernet. It was a perfect start to my meal. I love French onion soup and was very excited to try Seven Oaks version. It was perfect: a flavorful broth with the perfect amount of gooey cheese on top. I also tried Greg’s wedge salad. I usually am not a fan of iceberg lettuce, but this salad was great. The lettuce wedge was very crisp and topped with a tangy dressing, crumbled bacon and blue cheese… both good choices! Next came the sorbet to cleanse the palate — a small scoop of heaven to get us ready for the main course.

Wendy: I’ve been trying to eat healthier these days, so I thought the wedge

Blue crab cakes

from Hawaii and it is served to you within 24 hours; that’s amazing and fresh. The scallops were seared to perfection, melt in your mouth, and served with grilled roasted vegetables and a polenta cake.

Whitney: Our entrees arrived and, again, Bill and I ordered fish. I had the sea bass with three sides because I felt I needed to try all the starches after whipping Wendy in golf. The sea bass was flaky and lightly sautéed with a buttery, sweet sauce that was enhanced with scalloped potatoes, risotto and garlic mashed potatoes. All excellent, with the risotto being my favorite! Creamy risotto can’t be beat! It screams indulgence and weight gain! Bill had three large scallops that were seared lightly and accompanied by a corn polenta. He loved it! We paired it with a Rombauer chardonnay that made me smile.

Wendy: Just like most of our dining experiences, I come prepared to order and steak is on the menu! Can you say bone-in rib-eye? When I see that on the menu, it’s a must order! When my steak came out, it was almost embarrassing. I started to wonder if Wilma was in the kitchen because my steak looked like a brontosaurus steak! I had no doubt it would taste just as good as it looked. Cooked perfectly, it was tender and tasty.

A sweet end

salad would go nicely with my steak. I don’t care that Aimee said, “Iceberg lettuce has no nutritional value.” Well, when it came out she was “eyeballing” it! Greg ordered one, too, and she told him she wanted to taste it. What happened to “it has no nutritional value”?

Whitney: Bill and I love seafood, so right off the bat we knew what we were looking for. For my first course, I choose the ahi tuna salad that was beautifully constructed and piled high with ahi. It was so fresh it melted in my mouth. Bill ordered crab cakes, and they gave my ahi a run for its money. The crab cakes were huge and came with a chipotle sauce that gave the cakes a smoky, wonderful flavor.

Lori: I started the evening with a glass of the Rombauer cabernet. Caesar salad started my meal, made with fresh crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. In between our salad/soup we were served a sorbet to cleanse our palate for the main entrée. I really liked that.

Dinner

Aimee: I chose the filet special. It was art on the plate! My steak was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy with the perfect pink center. It was covered with a delicious mushroom sauce that was so good I could have eaten it as soup! The steak was served with my two favorite sides: mashed potatoes and roasted squash. The potatoes were light and fluffy with black truffles. So good! The squash had the perfect combination of tenderness and crunch!

As you all know, I am not a fan of seafood. My husband is, so he takes full advantage of ordering it when we go out to dinner. Greg ordered the scallops. He loved them. They were served with a polenta cake and roasted vegetables. I think everyone at the table loved what they ordered, especially Mike Horack. He licked his plate clean!

Lori: I have always heard the dinners at Seven Oaks were great. I have never eaten a dinner in the Oak Room, so I was really looking forward to it. I have attended many functions at Seven Oaks and never ever had a bad meal. My selection was one of the specials, scallops. I was informed that they order all their seafood

Aimee: The dessert menu at Seven Oaks offered so many choices. You could go and have just a glass of wine and dessert and be happy. I had the crème brulee. It was a good-size serving (I didn’t even finish it… I know that is hard to believe) and perfectly toasted on top. The rich creamy custard was so full of flavor. I loved it!

Lori: I had my mind made up. I was having the crème brulee... that was until the server informed us of the specials. I chose one of the specials, which was a slice of grilled pineapple topped with ice cream and shredded coconut shavings. Wow. I absolutely thought it was scrumptious.

Whitney: What better way to end a dinner than with a slice of grilled pineapple as dessert. It was simple, fresh and perfect.

You don’t need a heavy dessert to feel decadent. The pineapple is sliced then quickly grilled with a little brown sugar and there you have a perfect dessert to end a great dinner!

Wendy: Well, it’s no secret. I love chocolate molten lava cake, and it’s on the dessert menu. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was too die for! Rich and chocolatey.

Something for everyone

Aimee: When I heard the words “country club” in the past, it conjured up images of a stiff and stuffy place, but Seven Oaks is definitely not that! This club is filled with members of every age who are warm and welcoming! The club offers so many activities for adults, children and families! This club offers something for everyone, and I had a wonderful time during my day at Seven Oaks!

Lori: Seven Oaks Country Club has a warm and welcome feel. The club has an amazing atmosphere. Seven Oaks has so many different activities for many ages. The staff is amazing.

Thank you, Seven Oaks, for a great morning of golf and a great dinner in the Oak Room. A day at the club was everything I ever imagined.

Seven Oaks Country Club 2000 Grand Lakes Ave. 664-6404.

www.BakersfieldLife.com

31

Photo by Greg Nichols

D I N I N G D I VA S

The Dining Divas are joined by their husbands at Seven Oaks Country Club. From left: Darrin Ritchie, Whitney Rector, Bill Rector, Aimee Williamson, Wendy Horack, Mike Horack, Greg Williamson, Joe Haggerty, Stacey Haggerty and Lori Ritchie.

Goodbye, Divas Saying goodbye

Aimee: I can’t believe it has already been 16 months! What started out as a six-month adventure turned into a year and a half of fun, food and new friends. I have been friends with the other Divas for many years. They are a group of strong opinionated women who I love with all my heart!

Lori: These past 16 months have been so much fun with so many laughs, food, drinks and great memories. Thanks Aimee, Whitney and Wendy for all the great memories. It has been so fun to laugh with all of you. Wendy always getting the steak, Aimee saying I’m not eating anything in water and Whitney looking at me and saying, “Well, Lori, what are we going to have?” You girls are fun!

Memories

Aimee: Some of my most memorable moments from our last 16 months still make me smile. I loved eating at Desi Cafe. Who 32

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

would have thought I would ever have tried goat… not me! The experience of learning about new cultures and food was one of the benefits of having the Diva opportunity. I also loved the passion that Joe from Coconut Joe’s has for his food! When a person is passionate about what they do, it shows in the food. The healthy choices that are full of flavor made this one of my favorite places to eat. Then there is Valentien — a wine lover’s haven! The people of Bakersfield are lucky to benefit from the passion Jeremy Brown has for giving everyone the experience of combining wine with great food.

Wendy: My most memorable dining experience has to be dining at Luigi’s. I think because I have so many great memories there. The atmosphere makes me very comfortable, and the food is consistently incredible. I must have an old soul because I have a great appreciation for tradition. It’s restaurants like Luigi’s that symbolize tradition and authenticity. They are historic. The Bakersfield sports history is displayed on nearly every inch of

available wall space. It’s inviting and interesting to local residents and visitors. The Lemucchi and Valpredo family really capture what Bakersfield is all about great food, great people and comfortable atmosphere.

Lori: It’s hard trying to pick out just one memory. All 16 restaurants each had their own memory with all four of us. Eating at Desi Cafe, just learning about their food, culture and way of life, and the owners were so passionate about their food. We all did not know what we were in for and all came away loving the food.

Aimee was really nervous about goat that day, but she did try it, and I believe she actually liked it. It’s just that Desi was way out of all of our comfort zones.

We’ll miss you, Greg!

Whitney: What I will miss most is the funny comments our photographer made to us after we sometimes forgot he was there, while we argued and fussed at each other. I will miss you, Greg Nichols! Our run is over, but our lunches and dinners will continue, for where would I be without those three nut cases to keep life interesting and fun!

Lori: Our lunches won’t stop happening, but, Greg, we will all miss you saying, “Let’s try one more.” Thanks, Greg, for being patient with us and laughing right with us and not at us.

Thanks

Aimee: I would like to thank the people at Bakersfield Life

for making this experience possible. And thank you to the people of Bakersfield who read the articles and gave us your feedback. We loved being out and hearing strangers tell us they read our article and tried a new place to eat or a new item on the menu.

Lori: Thank you to all the restaurants that have allowed us to come in and have amazing food and memories. We all so enjoyed every one of them. Thank you to Bakersfield Life for putting together a great magazine and allowing us to be a part of it. Truly amazing.

Advice for the next Divas

Aimee: My advice to the new Dining Divas is simple: Be yourself and have fun. The experience of trying new foods and meeting new people is so exciting. It is time for us to pass the torch and have someone else put on their “big girl panties” and try new and exciting food to share with the people of Bakersfield!

Lori: Make the most out of each dining experience. Look forward to spending some quality time with each owner and listen to how they are passionate about their food and restaurant. Each and every one has their own unique style and history but are so alike.

Keep an open mind and enjoy your time.

Wendy: Thank you, Bakersfield Life, for giving me this great experience. I hope that our readers enjoyed our crazy articles. I’m going to miss it. If I was going to give the new Divas some advice, I would just say “keep it real” and have fun.

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GOING GREEN

Sasha Windes, left, and Jennifer Jordan are co-owners of Greenshops, a store that specializes in eco-friendly products.

Keeping it green Whatever your level of eco-consciousness, Greenshops might have something for you

H

By Hillary Haenes

idden by industrial buildings in the quiet strip mall of Chloe’s Plaza, northwest Bakersfield’s eco-friendly, one-stop shop has built a loyal following despite its location.

Greenshops caters to eco-connoisseurs and everyday eco-conscious folks alike, selling practical merchandise like organic bedding and cleaning products, as well as natural, cruelty-free makeup and skin care products.

The seed for the business sprouted during a lunch conversation between Jennifer Jordan and Sasha Windes, who were in real estate together. After a long talk about health problems facing their families and pets, both women spent hours looking into solutions.

Windes’ kids had developed allergies, asthma and eczema, so she switched her cleaning products, then gradually, the bedding. Since then, her kids haven’t had rash outbreaks or coughing attacks.

“Every single problem I was taking my daughter to the doctor for went away. When I switched everything out, it changed. We 34

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

hardly get sick anymore,” Windes said.

Together, Jordan and Windes sought a way to share their newfound knowledge of toxic-free lifestyles with others.

“We wanted to create a place where people could come in and ask questions because we didn’t have that,” Windes said.

About a year after that fateful lunch, the duo launched their website in January 2008 and soon discovered storage space was needed. Six months later, they opened a small, but shopperfriendly boutique (then called Fresh & Green) in the front part of the warehouse. The store’s name was changed to Greenshops after customers confused the boutique with Fresh & Easy grocery stores that opened around the same time.

The transition to a healthy, green lifestyle can be overwhelming, but Jordan and Windes don’t judge their customers.

“We’ve all made mistakes. You’re not going to do everything right,” Windes said, which is why Greenshops offers workshops once a month.

According to Jordan, the easiest way to go green is to start in the home, specifically in bedrooms since people breathe in what she calls “toxic soup” that consists of air fresheners, candles, perfumes and cleaning products.

“Going green is really thinking about what we bring in our homes. I think the word green will go away. It’s just a word. I consider it healthy living,” Jordan said.

The store’s top sellers include all-natural bedding and pillows made from bamboo fibers, hemp and organic cotton. Windes said that people who have allergies benefit from switching to bedding that is chemical-free. Regular pillows are soaked in fire-retardant chemicals that are extremely toxic, so when people sleep, their skin absorbs the chemicals.

The bedding and pillows are expensive compared to other products at Greenshops — organic bed pillows start at $82, while bedding ranges from $60 to $500 — but the owners agree they’re worth the investment for a good night’s sleep.

Another aspect of green living that’s neglected is the amount of waste people throw away at lunch, especially kids. Plastic and brown paper bags, juice boxes, clear sandwich bags, foil chip and cookie packages get disposed without hesitation to recycle.

“My daughter has nothing to throw away after her lunch,” Windes said.

For zero-waste lunches, Windes buys food in bulk and packs her kids’ lunches with reusable products from her store like organic lunch bags, refillable Klean Kanteens and snackTAXIs, bags that can be hand-washed and air-dried and come in two sizes to fit sandwiches and various snacks. Other eco back-to-school items include pens, binders, recycled notebook paper and backpacks.

Besides carrying products that eliminate waste, Greenshops supports TerraCycle, a program that recycles trash for cash. The waste is turned into products like toys, lunch totes and picture frames that are sold at Target, Wal-Mart and Office Max. Not only does TerraCycle pay schools and nonprofits for every item recycled, but the trash is collected at no charge.

Jordan and Windes have designated a TerraCycle drop-off location inside their store. (To learn more about the program, visit terracycle.net.)

Greenshops not only offers an assortment of products, but the owners have a local group that tests everything before a line is carried. It took two years to find a deodorant that works for most of their clients.

“Going green is a gradual process and it is too confusing for our customers to try and navigate through hundreds of products and not know if this or that product will work,” Jordan said.

To ensure customers find the right products from the best manufacturers, the owners send a five-page supply chain questionnaire for every manufacturer to complete before any product enters Greenshops. The owners seek manufacturers that practice good business tactics and care about what’s being distributed.

“We want to make sure that our dollars are going to companies that are like-minded and doing the right thing,” Jordan said.

Besides carrying the best eco products, Jordan and Windes operate Greenshops almost completely paperless, which means they don’t receive packing slips or invoices in deliveries.

“There’s a misconception right now that it is expensive. It’s about starting small and paying attention to waste. With me going green, I’ve saved thousands of dollars,” Jordan said.

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ON THE RED COUCH

Off the Red Couch

Deanna Jones

Contractor; has been playing golf seriously for seven years

These four are busy ladies, but they are also serious about their time on the green. At varying levels, this quartet is making a habit of playing together because they have such a good time.

How often do you play golf and where?

Deanna: I try to play golf two to three times per week.

Norma: Usually I’ll play at Kern River, unless I get invited to play at one of the private courses. If I play once a week, that’s a dream. However, that’s not always the case.

Jacque: Two to three times a week. Kern River and Rio Bravo mostly; the other country clubs occasionally.

Janet: I love my job but work really gets in the way of my golf game! What’s up with that? I probably play golf once every week (if I’m lucky) or two with my husband or the girls. I love Kern River, so I try to golf there but I also like to mix things up. I’m finally at a confidence level with my game where I feel I can go out and pretty much play any course (I know that statement will come back to haunt and humble me).

I’ve played at least once at every course in Bakersfield and Sycamore Canyon in Arvin.

What is your favorite course in town?

Deanna: Rio Bravo is my favorite course.

Norma: Kern River has to be my favorite for a variety of reasons. One is that it’s challenging every time.

It’s nicely kept and has a beautiful landscape to look at. Also being close to home makes it easier to get out more often.

Jacque: Bakersfield Country Club because it is the most challenging course in town.

Janet: Kern River! The scenery is truly amazing and 36

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

I feel centered and at peace when I am on the course.

It’s even more beautiful when I play halfway decent!

What is your favorite golfing moment?

Deanna: My favorite memory was during our International Shootout, Alternate Shot. I hit an incredible shot over the trees on No. 10 to land 18 inches from the hole to make a birdie. It was an ESPN moment.

Norma: My favorite golfing memory is hitting a line-drive ball, skidding across the water hazard and popping right up unto the green on a 3 par in Palm Springs. Makes you jump up and down with joy “for being lucky”!

Jacque: Recently making a hole in one on No. 5 at Rio Bravo while playing with Deanna and a couple other golf buddies.

Janet: Hmm ... let me ponder my lengthy, illustrious golf career. Without a doubt, it is my eagle on No. 5, a par 4 at Morro Bay Golf Course on July 16. Norma and Jacque were playing with me, so I have credible witnesses. I hit a good uphill drive. The green was slightly elevated and had a lip in front so we didn’t have a view of the hole. I decided to hit my pitching wedge and thought I hit it pretty well but couldn’t see my ball when we drove up to the green. I thought I had hit it past the green when a lady in the group ahead of us yelled, “It went in!” Then Jacque yells, “You just eagled the hole!” It was hysterical and we were rollin’! They made me lay by the hole with my ball in it and took pictures and a video.

Janet Andrea

Photos by Henry A. Barrios

Public health nurse; has played golf for almost a year

Jacque Servadio LPGA golf teaching professional, Kern River Golf Course, and CSUB women’s golf coach; has played golf for 22 years

What is the best score you have every gotten?

Which course?

Norma Diaz

Owner, La Rosa Fruit Bars & Ice Cream Inc.; has played golf on and off for 20 years, getting more involved in the last year

Deanna: The best score I’ve ever had was a 79 at Rio Bravo last year.

Norma: Well, my first year I broke 100.

I call it “beginner’s luck.” Recently I shot a 48 on the front nine at Kern River (we won’t discuss the back nine).

Jacque: Shot 69 – which was the ladies course record at Kern River this last July.

Janet: Does it have to be 18 holes?

Dang it! I guess it would be 100 at Kern River. Don’t tell anyone but I just recently started keeping score. Before that it was just too ugly, and I would write things like “TMTC” (too many to count), “Hideous,” “P&W” (pathetic and weak). Self-imposed negativity is a huge motivator for me.

Continued on page 38

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Continued from page 37

If you could golf with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Deanna Jones

Deanna: I really don’t care who I golf with as long as I have a good time.

Norma: “The Donald”! Mr. Trump would have to be the one! A round of golf does wonders for the mind and his is one I’d like to search. He’s a phenomenal businessman! I’m sure he’s come to many great decisions while playing golf!

Jacque: Ben Hogan because he was one of the best ball strikers that ever lived, especially with the archaic clubs he had to hit in the ’40s and ’50s.

Janet: Oh this is easy ... Leonardo DiCaprio because he is gorgeous! Who cares if he can’t golf? Of course it doesn’t hurt that he’s an amazing actor (we’ll forget “Titanic”) and an active, generous humanitarian. I’m pretty sure after a round of golf infused with stimulating and deep intellectual conversation, Leo would be smitten.

Have his people call my people ...

Janet Andrea

Norma Diaz

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

What are some of your other hobbies?

Deanna: My other hobbies are showing my jumping horses with my kids, coaching soccer for AYSO, and I love to gamble.

Norma: I love any sort of physical challenge. Going to the gym and working out; my favorite is running. Thanks to my friend Leigh Pozas, owner of Total Woman, she has developed awesome training classes to prepare us for exciting events like this year’s Volkslauf. Truly a test of endurance. I also like to cycle and participate in Bakersfield running races, which help raise funds for great causes.

Jacque: The gym, cooking, going to the movies, eating out with friends and family.

Janet: People say I’m a freak when it comes to working out ... but it’s a passion so it’s just normal to me. So if I’m not working, at home with my family, or golfing, I will be at Total Woman, ’blading on the bike path, or cycling wherever I take my bike — or wherever my bike takes me.

This doesn’t leave me much time for knitting, crafts or blogging.

Jacque Servadio

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Photo by Jessica Frey

Ben Stinson is the secondgeneration owner of Stinson’s, one of many long-standing businesses in Bakersfield.

Love WHY WE

BAKERSFIELD

With so much to love about Bakersfield, we had to narrow ourselves down to 20 things that make Bakersfield a great place to live

By Hillary Haenes

1

Basque influence We love our Basque cuisine and sharing fond memories of the diverse spread of food with family and friends. What always seems to be a never-ending meal begins with soup and bread, beans and hot sauce, then out comes an assortment that can include veggies, pickled tongue, fries and spaghetti. After the early courses, entrées of seafood and meats like veal or lamb are served.

One of the largest Basque communities in the United States, Bakersfield has several Basque restaurants and organizations that

Photo by Casey Christie

Y

ou don’t need rose-colored glasses to see there’s a lot to love about Bakersfield (of course, we may be biased!). From the small-town charm and abundance of local businesses and family restaurants to the neighborhood parks, great schools and affordable housing market, Bakersfield is an ideal spot to live and raise a family. Not to mention, it's prime location enables us to take short day trips out of town.

Sure, there are times when city living isn’t so pleasant — the scorching summers and dense fog in the winter, the bad air and our bad habit of ending up on the wrong end of quality-of-living lists — but most days it’s with pride that we enjoy another day in Bakersfield.

To celebrate the city we love, we’ve come up with 20 great things about Bakersfield. While we may not be able to touch on everything we enjoy about this growing city with small-town roots, we hope we’ve hit at least some of your favorites.

Former sheepherder Martin Iribarren at the annual Sheepmen's Picnic at the Kern County Basque Club. carry on the traditions, including food.

Each restaurant offers its own twist on the family-style setup. Wool Growers has been serving Basque dishes for more than five decades to locals celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and reunions. Another iconic Basque eatery is Noriega’s, originally a hotel founded in 1893 that was transformed into a restaurant in the 1940s and continues to offer an authentic feast while the bar serves Continued on page 42 www.BakersfieldLife.com

41

Photo by Jessica Frey

Brad Cordova and Jennifer Williams enjoy a treat at Rosemary’s Family Creamery.

Continued from page 41

the popular Basque cocktail Picon Punch. More Basque eateries include: Chalet Basque, a restaurant and hoppin’ bar at night that’s been around for more than 30 years; Narducci’s Café, in Old Town Kern, offering both Italian and Basque food and live entertainment; and Benji’s, a larger eatery that houses more than 250 people and offers banquet facilities. Once known as Kern City French Bakery, Pyrenees Bakery, open since 1887, still makes fresh loaves daily, and the bread is served in major restaurants and sold in most grocery stores around town.

The Kern County Basque Club, founded in 1944, hosts annual festivals and has given numerous scholarships to students. A wellknown charity with Basque roots, Mendiburu Magic Foundation, celebrated its 10th anniversary this year. Since 2000, the foundation has donated thousands of dollars to agencies and organizations to help people with life-threatening illnesses and support ongoing cancer research. (The foundation’s upcoming events include Pyrenees Fiesta, an annual fundraiser on Sept. 18, and on Oct. 10, the community will celebrate Nancy Ann Mendiburu Cancer Fighter Day.)

2

Local ice creameries

We’re spoiled with the assortment of creative cold concoctions and tasty treats from our local ice creameries. The smell of fresh-baked goods, the sight of nostalgic diner decor and taste of mouth-watering homemade caramel sauce swirled with whipped marshmallow fluff atop a sundae all reinforce the old-fashioned parlor atmosphere.

Two local favorites recently hit milestones: Dewar’s celebrated its centennial while Rosemary’s Family Creamery hit 25 years.

Both iconic creameries have housed their share of birthday parties, first dates and gatherings after dance recitals and sports events.

Moo Creamery’s proclaimed “modern soda fountain” opened 42

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September 2010

last year, and its simple but decadent menu of burgers, sandwiches, hearty soups and salads is quite a draw for lunchtime crowds.

Innovative ice cream flavors like jalapeño cream cheese with raspberries, bacon love and blueberry with pieces of pie crust also keep people coming back for more.

3

Famous sons In every city, there are individuals known for something significant. Bakersfield has a lineup of notables who either grew up here or greatly contributed to the community. Our city credits Col. Thomas Baker as its founder and how “Baker’s field” got its name. Alfred Harrell is another big name, having served as a superintendent of schools and buying The Bakersfield Californian in 1897. Earl Warren, who moved here at a young age, is known for serving as state attorney general and California governor and wrote the opinion in Brown vs. Board of Education that abolished segregation in schools. Also leaving their mark on our fair city are a pair of politicians: Walter Stiern, once a state senator and the man behind the master plan of CSUB; and Bill Thomas, a former BC instructor and retired Republican congressman who, at one time, chaired the powerful Ways and Means Committee. Taking to the skies, Chuck Yeager, responsible for breaking the speed of sound in 1947 at Edwards Air Force Base, and Dick Rutan, co-pilot in the record, nonstop flight around the world in 1986, made aviation history. Jack LaLanne, who spent some of his childhood living on a sheep ranch in Greenfield, went on to become a legendary fitness expert. And we can’t forget our musical roots, both the modern crop (Jonathan Davis and band Korn) and the classics of the Bakersfield Sound (Buck Owens and Merle Haggard, with numerous hits and honored places in the Country Music Hall of Fame).

Photo by John Harte

Country music legend Merle Haggard, one of Bakersfield’s favorite sons.

kersfield and acted in “The Aviator,” “Lars and the Real Girl” and the new film “Going the Distance.” And Buck isn’t the only one to make something of the Owens name: Bonnie Owens, singer and songwriter once married to both Buck and Merle Haggard, was named “Female Vocalist Of The Year” in 1965. Another Owens — albeit unrelated — Bessie, made her mark in education as a local elementary school teacher and master of her profession for whom Potomac Avenue School was renamed in 1971.

5

We love to give

Bakersfield native Kelli Garner with Leonardo DiCaprio in a scene from “The Aviator.”

4

Famous daughters Just like our famous sons, there are several women who have made a name for themselves in Kern County. Mary K. Shell has made a lasting impression, first as a reporter at The Bakersfield Californian, then as Bakersfield’s first female mayor in the 1980s and, later, a county supervisor. Another political leader, Grace Dorris, broke gender barriers when she was among four women elected to the State Assembly in 1918. Juliet Thorner, a longtime county pediatrician, has a creative and performing arts school named after her. The stars have smiled on Amy Adams as an “American Idol” finalist and Kelli Garner, who was born in Ba-

Whether it’s one person, a school, church or nonprofit, our community extends a helping hand to others in times of need. This year’s big success was saving Cal State Bakersfield’s four sports programs in jeopardy — wrestling, women’s tennis and men’s and women’s golf — through a community fundraising effort, which generated more than $700,000 in just a few months to rescue several coaching jobs and the dreams of about 60 student athletes.

Leading the fight against cancer and raising thousands of dollars every year are local events Relay for Life and Links for Life.

Bakersfield celebrated its 19th Relay in May with about 370 teams, more than 6,000 participants and 1,700 survivors who raised $1.78 million for the American Cancer Society, making us the largest Relay in the world. What began 18 years ago with 10 women golfing, Links for Life has grown to 300 attendees for a tournament, gala and auction. The program has raised just under $1 million, with funding providing more than 1,300 clinical services for breast cancer patients in the past 12 months.

Continued on page 44 www.BakersfieldLife.com

43

Photo by Michael Fagans

Bakersfield’s most recent NFL first-round pick, West High graduate Ryan Mathews.

Continued from page 43

Helping children is also high on the local list: Bakersfield West Rotary’s Cioppino Feed, which has raised more than half a million dollars since it started in 1993, benefits less fortunate local youth in the areas of education, literacy, health and welfare. Toys for Tots, the Ronald McDonald House and St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway aid not only children, but also their families. Last year thousands of books and toys for needy local children were donated through Toys for Tots during the holiday season. Marking its first anniversary in June, the Ronald McDonald House has welcomed more than 300 families of ill children undergoing treatment. And the eighth annual St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway raffled off two homes for the first time, raising more than $8 million and making it the most successful campaign of its kind in the west.

6

Hometown sports pride Not only do we have professional sports teams — the Bakersfield Condors and the Bakersfield Blaze — that attract big crowds, but there are also many accomplished athletes who hail from Bakersfield. Several have gone on to big careers in the NFL: Joey Porter (Arizona Cardinals) still calls Bakersfield his hometown and gives back to the community with his youth football camp,

44

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

and David Carr (San Francisco 49ers) visits periodically. Newest NFL player Ryan Mathews was drafted to his favorite team, the San Diego Chargers. Other big-time football names include Frank Gifford, Ken Ruettgers, Louis Wright and Brock Marion. As far as racing goes, Kevin Harvick is a NASCAR superstar as well as Casey Mears, who is following the path of his uncle and four-time Indy 500 winner, Rick. One of the best baseball players to come from Bakersfield was Johnny Callison, best known for his years on the Phillies. George Culver played on the same team as Callison at Sam Lynn one winter when a Phillies scout put a team together. In 1968, Culver, then a pitcher for the Reds, threw a no-hitter against Callison, his childhood hero. Basketball stars Robert Swift, Chris Childs, Lonnie Shelton and Freddie Boyd were all born here and once played for the NBA. Former pro tennis players Dennis Ralston and Hank Pfister (won two singles titles) and CSUB head golf coach Dave Barber played on the PGA tour. Up-and-comer heavyweight boxing contender Manuel “El Toro” Quezada recently held his own until the ninth round against Chris Arreola for the Mexican National Heavyweight Championship.

There are also several native female athletes who hold records.

Pitcher Megan Langenfeld recently led the UCLA softball team to the Women’s College World Series and was nominated for an ESPY. In 2009, Anna Jelmini set the U.S. high school record in the discus throw and shot put that earned her the honor of Gatorade’s National Track and Field Female Athlete of the Year. Jelmini’s coach in middle school was Dawn Dumble, a four-time NCAA champion in the shot put and discus. Lisa Kiggens was an LPGA player in the 1990s, Nikki Blue plays in the WNBA with the New York Liberty and Camille Benjamin played on the WTA from the 1980s to 1994.

7 8

Outdoor recreation Despite a reputation for poor air quality and hot summer days, people still take advantage of Bakersfield’s recreational activities.

Riding or running along the 32-mile bike trail that extends through town on a spring day can bring such joy to nature lovers. Depending on your mood, you can spend a relaxing day golfing with buddies at The Links at Riverlakes or fishing at Hart Park. For those seeking thrills, raft or kayak down the Kern River with River’s End Rafting & Adventure Co. or head to Five Dogs Range for sporting clays or join the Kern County Gun Club to do a little trap and skeet shooting.

Enjoying nature Mountain and ocean landscapes are a few hours drive, but there are plenty of scenic beauty to enjoy within our city limits. We have a multitude of parks for anyone who wants to play recreational sports while swings and slides keep can the children occupied.

In addition, Hart Park is an ideal place for birthday picnics or family barbecues. The Park at River Walk draws a large gathering for outdoor concerts at the Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, movie nights and festivals.

Adventurous types have the opportunity to kayak and raft down the mighty Kern River while others can enjoy hooking a line to catch a fish. Besides the bike path that weaves through Bakersfield, the Panorama Bluffs in northeast Bakersfield is a popular spot for joggers to exercise after work.

9

Annual events Rain or shine, loyal crowds make it a point of attending 21and-older events like the Festival of Beers, Wine Fest and Village Fest. The annual affairs draw thousands of visitors from frat brothers to oenophiles. The Bakersfield Jazz Festival and Greek Food Festival also have dedicated followings that await the appointed time each year to either mellow out with music or celebrate with dolmades and spanikopita.

And after five years, the Bakersfield Business Conference is back. George Martin, attorney at Borton Petrini LLP, started this conference at the Stockdale Country Club in 1985 with an audience of 250 people. By 2005, the event grew to an audience of 12,000. This year, the event will be held at CSUB on Oct. 9 and will feature speakers like former Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin; former Vice President Dick Cheney; former first lady Laura Bush and actress Goldie Hawn. Rounding out the year are well-known events like the challenging Volkslauf Mud Run, which raises money for Toys for Tots, and “The Nutcracker” performances and HolidayLights at CALM.

10 Nightlife

We’re a family town first, but Bakersfield definitely has a nightlife. No matter your age or interest, there’s always something happening on a Friday or Saturday night. Dine out at Café Med or KC Steak House or put on your cowboy hat for a boot-scootin’ good time at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. If chardonnay or country line-dancing don’t interest you, make a pit stop at Fishlips for a brew or two and enjoy live music from local musicians. The

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downtown streets are filled with artsy folks who look forward to gallery-hopping and viewing new masterpieces on First Fridays.

After admiring art, the Padre Hotel is a central location to consume delicious food at Belvedere (with a reservation, of course), have a cappuccino at Farmacy, a margarita at Brimstone bar or Prairie Fire and dance up a storm at Prospect Lounge.

11 12 Fine dining

Bakersfield certainly has its fair share of fast-food chains, but there are many nice local restaurants from which to choose. A fine dining experience can be had at T. L. Maxwell’s, Café Med, Uricchio’s, Valentien and Mama Tosca’s. Whether it's filet mignon, rack of lamb or authentic Italian dish, these restaurants prepare some of the best dinners around town. If you don’t mind eating at a hotel, The Bistro in the Four Points Sheraton is wonderful for havving an intimate dinner or entertaining friends. And for members (and guests only), head to Seven Oaks Country Club to the five-star Oak Room overlooking the golf course or take a ride to the top of Stockdale Towers to dine at the Petroleum Club. The Padre Hotel's Belvedere promises an elegant dining experience.

Chic boutiques

Rodeo Drive has nothing on Bakersfield, where ladies find fabulous and trendy items at any of our beloved boutiques. Chic spots like Christine’s, Pappagallo and Sugardaddy’s have been around for years, providing us with the latest designer looks. Joining their ranks in recent years, Bella at The Marketplace, Miss Holiday, Tangerine, Fashionista, Lolo’s, Kaur and La Coquette have kept local Continued on page 46

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13 14 15

ladies looking stylish in Betsey Johnson, Stella McCartney, Juicy Couture, Trina Turk, Michael Kors, True Religion and more.

We’re lucky to have a number of restaurants serving authentic Mexican cuisine. Fresh chips, spicy salsa and mouth-watering burritos, tacos or enchiladas are what keep bringing customers back to longtime favorites Mexicali, Red Pepper and Sinaloa. Each one has a different vibe and specialty, such as Mexicali’s frequently ordered free-poured margaritas with homemade mix. Other great south-of-the-border eats include Casa Munoz, La Costa Mariscos, La Colonia and Cactus Valley.

The right distance & travel Every city has its perks, and one of Bakersfield’s best features is its proximity to various vacation destinations both north and south. If you’re the outdoor type, a trip to surrounding mountains for a day hike or camping in the warm months is ideal. During the winter, you can rent a cabin and learn to ski or snowboard. In the opposite direction the quiet beaches of Pismo and Morro Bay await you and, on the way, stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting in Paso Robles. Looking for more? Head south to the prime surf destination Huntington Beach. When passing through Los Angeles, catch a Dodger game or take a tour of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Want to gamble with the high rollers or catch a Cirque du Soleil show? Las Vegas is only a couple hundred miles away. Next time you feel trapped in our fish bowl, hop in your car and head over the mountains.

It’s all about the price Compared to coastal regions and bigger cities north and south of us, Bakersfield is a relatively inexpensive place to live. In terms of homeownership, Bakersfield is still a relatively affordable place to live. According to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index, which measures cost of living figures in metro statistical areas (which applies to counties), Bakersfield is pretty close to average, if you assume the cost of living in the United States is 100 percent.

Bakersfield is at 103.2 percent while Sacramento is 116.7 percent Bakersfield Life

and Los Angeles is 136.2 percent. Our higher education choices, Cal State Bakersfield and Bakersfield College, are more affordable than other colleges.

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Family entertainment

Mexican food

46

Photo by Casey Christie

The cost of owning a home in Bakersfield is significantly lower than other California metropolitan areas.

September 2010

We live in a family-oriented town, so of course there are lots of activities year-round geared toward family entertainment. For people on a budget, take your kids to discover California Living Museum. Visit with zoo animals like recent rescue Willow, an adorable young mountain lion, or during December, walk around and admire the HolidayLights display. Visit Pioneer Village to see more than 50 historic buildings, stop by the permanent interactive exhibit “Black Gold: The Oil Experience,” or the Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center. All are fun ways to learn Kern’s history at the Kern County Museum. Throughout the year, crowds gather in the streets to attend the Downtown Street Faire where there’s an interest for everyone — barbecue, arts and crafts, farmers markets and trolley tours. In the springtime, families can head to nearby parks and The Marketplace for concerts, and in September, the Kern County Fair always brings in folks noshing on high-caloric funnel cakes, deep-fried Twinkies and hot and sticky cinnamon rolls. For parents with older kids, the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra has six subscription concerts, including a few for younger audiences.

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Long-lasting businesses This town’s known for some of its unique local businesses, and a few are celebrating significant anniversaries. Luigi’s Delicatessen has been a favorite Old Town Kern attraction for lunch gatherings since 1910. Pictures of hometown athletes from the past eight decades adorn the walls of the eatery with rich foods and a richer history. Head there early on Saturdays because the restaurant will fill up with people wanting Emilia Lemucchi’s pasta Bolognese, a New York steak or the half & half (pasta with meat sauce and Italian beans). Mercy Hospital, San Joaquin Community Hospital and St. Francis School also commemorated 100 years of serving the community. The iconic Fox Theater has brought a diverse crowd of entertainers since it opened its doors on Christmas Day 80 years ago, and the Kern County Museum has been sharing local history

on its grounds with patrons since 1941. Clothing store Western Emporium will celebrate 101 years in business and AJ’s Tuxedo Junction has been our hometown tux shop for 40 years. Auto dealership Jim Burke Ford (formerly known as Haberfelde Ford) has been selling cars since 1913, while Douglass Truck Bodies has been specializing in the manufacturing and design of standard and custom trucks for more than 50 years. Other long-lasting businesses include Stinson’s office supplies (established in 1947), Lambourne Travel (in business for 64 years), Bill Ray Tile (in existence since 1956) and Urner’s furniture store (in operation for 91 years). Also standing the test of time is The Bakersfield Californian, which has been around for 143 years.

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Cal State Bakersfield recently added baseball and completed the transition to NCAA Division 1 .

Photo by Henry A. Barrios

Schools

Bakersfield students and teachers deserve recognition.

Academically and athletically, some local schools have ranked among the top in the state for multiple achievements. Standout efforts are often a product of blood (literally), sweat and, possibly, tears: This past year, Houchin Blood Bank says high schools around Kern held 62 blood drives and collected 4,880 units of blood, with donations from Kern County high schools making up 35 percent of the county’s blood supply. The Stockdale High School Mock Trial team is another source of local pride, having reclaimed top county honors after a one-year lapse broke

Continued on page 48

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their 12-year streak. The Fruitvale School District has also done outstanding work — the district ranks among the highest-achieving in the state. Bakersfield College, one of the nation’s oldest continually running community colleges, was given an “exemplary program award” for its basic skills program this year and was one of two in the state to receive this award by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors. Cal State Bakersfield had quite an eventful year: The school celebrated its 40th anniversary with a big bash in May, the four endangered sports were saved with support from the community and, in July, the university’s NCAA Division I transition was complete.

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Though we have lost a couple of galleries this past year, the downtown art scene continues to flourish with art aficionados who visit museums, theaters and galleries. Surface Gallery co-owners Vikki Cruz and Yvonne Cavanagh closed their gallery in May, but both women continue to stay active in the arts. Cruz was recently appointed curator of the Bakersfield Museum of Art, which has brought residents beautiful exhibits for more than 50 years. Cavanagh teaches art at Bakersfield High School and continues to show her work around town. With the revitalization of the cultural Arts District, galleries have appeared around every corner, showcasing and supporting local artists. Metro Galleries owner Don Martin, the man behind First Friday, has made downtown come alive, with people socializing at spots such as Metro, the Bakersfield Art Association Gallery and Art Center, Bakersfield Museum of Art, coffee shops Farmacy at the Padre Hotel and Dagny’s Coffee Company, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery and Cezanne Gallery

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

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Art and music

Local produce can be found at several farmers markets in town.

and Chris Vanderlei Gallery — both on H Street. Heading off the downtown path, the Todd Madigan Gallery at CSUB, the Wylie and Mary Louise Jones Gallery at BC and Russo’s Books (showcasing local works) are also worth a visit.

The Empty Space and Spotlight Theatre display art in rotating exhibits, as well as putting on a variety of live performances. Stellar shows can also be seen at CSUB’s Doré Theatre, Bakersfield Community Theatre, The Gaslight Melodrama Theatre and Stars Theatre. Local theater draws a lot of supporters for both popular (“Jekyll & Hyde”) and original (“My Big Fat Oildale Wedding”) shows. Musically, the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra is a standout — with its exceptional season of works, including “The Nutcracker” in December — and the Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, which organizes shows at galleries and restaurants.

20 Oil and agriculture

We can thank these two industries for bringing droves of people here for work and cultivating our rich history. Major oil producer Kern generates more than half of California’s oil, and we have 80 percent of all oil-producing wells and the top five oil-producing fields throughout the state. Take to the open road to see the great role agriculture plays locally, with dairy farms, orchards and miles of crops surrounding you.

As of 2009, Kern County’s top five ag products are grapes, milk, almonds, carrots and citrus, most available at the various farmers markets that have cropped up around town. From the grocery store to these market gatherings, we’re supporting local businesses Bolthouse Farms, Murray Family Farms, Grimmway Farms and more.

On the perfect

Trail

By Sally Baker

W

Four ways to enjoy that nice hike, ride or run — in town

Photos by Tanya X. Leonzo

hen you think about trail running in the Bakersfield area, your immediate thought may not be a totally positive one.

Flat, hot, dusty and ugly may be images that come to mind. But in truth, Kern County has a fabulously diverse selection of trails.

I asked veteran trail runners to describe some of their favorite trails. Here are just a few:

The bike path around Lake Ming is the perfect location for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

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The trails above Hart Park and the Pistol Range provide hikers, runners and mountain bikers with some challenging and scenic terrain.

Kern River Bike Path

This bike path offers an excellent route all the way from Derrel’s Mini Storage, beneath the Panorama Bluffs, through Beach Park, Yokuts Park, and the Park at the River Walk. It continues for many miles, west to Enos Lane. You may choose a firm path or dirt trail most of the way. The scenery changes from canal side, riverside, shady trees, drinking fountains and lakes to flat farmland. There are no significant hills on this trail, and it is also great for mountain biking.

Take in the scenery around Hart Park

In contrast, head east to Hart Park’s Pistol Range for some major hill climbing and incredible scenery.

As you wind your way uphill on the wide trail, you

will be treated to fantastic vistas for miles and miles in each direction. After doing a loop on top of the mesa, head down the infamous “Toads Gulley” for some wild terrain. Steep sides and one mile of downhill offer a fun descent. This trail offers wonderful recreation for hikers, runners and mountain bikers, an approximate four-mile trail. Bring your own water on this one.

The calming path leading to Lake Ming

For another flatter trail, park at the far eastern end of Lake Ming and pick up the bike path around the beautiful lake or alternately drop below to the grassy trail for a cooler, riverside trail. Follow the trail through the campgrounds and along the Continued on page 52

www.BakersfieldLife.com

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riverbank toward Hart Park. A nice loop travels around Hart Park and return back along the trail behind the soccer park, passing CALM, the Rio Bravo area and back around the other side of the Lake.

The road less traveled — Cow Flat

For a slightly more adventurous hike, off the beaten path, drive up the scenic Breckenridge Road to the “Cow Flat” sign on your left. You will find yourself surrounded by wildlife, nature and rugged, mountain terrain. Although the trail itself is easily negotiated and stretches the width of a vehicle, it is remote, and hikers should take caution. Bring water and

food, and you may be out of cell phone range in places. Tell someone where you are going, or better, take a buddy. This trail is approximately 13 miles from Breckenridge to the steep descent down to Highway 178. This trail is also great for mountain biking.

Many local races are held on these trails and more. They are a good way to try them out with company or join one of our friendly running or hiking groups, such as the Bakersfield Track Club, which can introduce you to our amazing Kern Country landscape. Either way — there is much to enjoy all year round.

— Sally Baker is a local fitness expert. Running and yoga are among her specialties.

Cow Flat trail stretches from Breckenridge Road to Highway 178 in the Kern River Canyon and is a great place for adverturous hike or a strenuous mountain bike ride.

Photo by Brevin Blach

Grand Dame Downtown’s

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September 2010

Iconic Padre Hotel plans gala celebration

By Lisa Kimble

t is inconceivable to think of the dazzlingly lavish Padre Hotel as once having been simply just "a whim," a boarded-up old haunt that almost didn’t come back to life. But only a few years ago, downtown’s worn and derelict diva and her colorful past were complete strangers to hip hotelier Brett Miller and his partners, who flew from San Diego to Bakersfield on a lark, expecting nothing more than a satisfying Basque meal at Wool Growers on their daytrip to check out the rundown landmark.

Photo by Brevin Blach

"We felt something special inside" the much-loved Padre Hotel, said Brett Miller of his first visit to the historic building.

That day changed downtown’s cultural landscape and cemented the ambitious undertaking of Miller’s team into the lore of the storied old building. Today, the elegantly restored hotel at the corner of 18th and H streets is a chic, big-city auberge whose contemporary interior design, married smartly with the structure’s imposing original bones, belies a fabled past.

Former county supervisor Milton "Spartacus" Miller acquired the eight-story Spanish Colonial Revival, built in 1928, in 1954. It wasn’t long before his acrimonious relationship with city fathers began with both sides trading accusations of corruption and deceit over the years. In 1966, the city ordered Miller to shutter the third through eighth floors after Spartacus lost a legal battle over fire safety issues. Miller used his rooftop to showcase his disdain for local government and erected "Alamo" and "Tombstone" signs, along with a missile aimed at City Hall. But Mr. Miller, as he was affectionately known to some, was as endearing as he was cranky, regularly allowing friends and acquaintances access beyond the second floor, violating ordinances along the way. The hotel’s dark and gaudy Towne Casino lounge became a downtown dive bar and something of a socio-economic watering hole intersection.

Miller died in June of 1999, less than two months after the ailing 85-year-old married Lora Gordan from his hospital bed. His death triggered a battle over ownership of the legendary building, which lasted nearly two years before his widow and nephews agreed to a settlement. Three years later, Pacifica Enterprises LLC purchased the property for a million dollars with plans for converting the Padre into condominiums. But after five years of costly delays, Pacifica halted construction and put the prime real estate back on the market.

A year later, the project came across Brett Miller’s desk.

“I remember we asked the cab driver to take us to the Padre, and he knew exactly where to take us,” recalled Brett, no relation to Milton.

The venerable hotel was at its worst that day, Miller remembered. But once inside, it was love at first sight when he laid eyes on the three curved windows and 20-foot-high ceilings.

“We wondered whether it was haunted, but we felt something special inside that day, and it captured us as we pulled up some dirty chairs, sat down and imagined the possibilities,” he added.

Brett Miller, a Hanford native, was already familiar with Bakersfield, the big city down the valley where his family would come to shop when he was growing up. But at one point, as the subprime market was evaporating, Miller and his San Diego-based Padre Partners, LP Graham Downes and Dave Gash, pulled the project out of escrow, only to be coaxed back into making it work by its sellers.

In March 2008, they purchased the building for $3.9 million.

The condo plans were scrapped, and the developers enlisted the city’s help in securing a $1.8 million federal loan. All the while, an eager community held its breath as $18 million in renovations were made on the stately property, giving it a facelift and turning her into a resplendent lifestyle boutique hotel the area so desperately desired.

The Padre finally opened six months ago to almost unanimous praise and acclaim. In the hotel’s Spartacus Miller era, the structure was more an eyesore and magnet for the downtrodden and disenfranchised. A room smaller than a minivan was sold to prospective guests on the promise of having one’s own restroom and a place "forced cooled" by a swamp cooler.

Today, under the direction and design of award-winning San Continued on page 56 www.BakersfieldLife.com

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Photo by Made U Look

The Farmer’s Daughter suite in the Padre Hotel.

Continued from page 55

Diego architect and partner Downes, the developers, in restoring the Padre to its original use, have retained and enhanced existing features in its 112-guest rooms, suites and five restaurants and bars.

“We brought what we thought would enhance it and combined it with materials that celebrate Bakersfield.”

The results are stunning.

From the main floor’s marble and wood and wall-tufting to the richly appointed luxury suites like The Oil Baron and Farmer’s Daughter, and the uber-sophisticated Prospect lounge that now occupies the revered Towne Casino spot, the historic downtown venue pays homage to the meat-and-potato and oil derrick roots of Kern’s county seat in a way Mr. Miller could not have imagined but surely would have enjoyed. “Every room is different today, but every room is fantastic,” Brett Miller enthused. “The place truly feels good to me. I see the beveled glass, the marble, and it is a feel-good experience every time I walk in the door.”

At night, the architecture stands, as downtown’s beacon of hope for a revival the area hasn’t seen in decades.

This month, developers will officially unveil their crown jewel to the public, six months after first opening its doors. A grand opening celebration is planned for Sept. 30. The gala will feature cocktails and light dinner fare and hors d’oeuvres.

A portion of the proceeds of the $125-per-person event will benefit Bakersfield Memorial Hospital’s Children’s Medical Center Initiative, and it will feature a "casino night" theme on the secondfloor outdoor bar, Prairie Fire. Another treasure and nod to the past, Dena Reynolds, one of the Towne Casino’s last piano players, will also perform. “The emphasis will be on the fun part of this fundraiser,” Brett said. “We want this to be the party people will remember for a long time.”

Years ago, a sale was held and some of the signage, trinkets and memorabilia are now in the hands of collectors. Although one of the last vestiges of the old Padre — the missile — was removed last summer and donated to the Kern County Museum, smaller relics like the old telephone booth and switch board remain as reminders of days gone by.

And those who know entrepreneur Miller say the Padre is the "baby" of his trendy, upscale hotel development portfolio. One does indeed get the sense that he sees himself as preservationist of the history of the iconic 82-year-old building and custodian of the 56

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

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eclectic legacy Spartacus created more than 50 years ago at 18th and H streets.

“I never got to go to the Towne Casino bar or stay in a room when Mr. Miller owned it, but he did some things right,” 42-year-old Miller said. “The fact that there are so many people who hold the Padre dear to their heart is very special, and we have to ensure that continues by making sure we are reaching out and touching the hearts of our guests so that they will continue to come back.

We want to be the backdrop for that first date, the wedding anniversary celebration, and the first ‘legal’ drink.”

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PA S T I M E S

Are you ready for this?

Kern County Fair to once again showcase its diverse food selection

T

he Kern County Fair is just around the corner, and with that come plenty of opportunities for making new memories.

Sure, the rides have much to offer the young at heart, and the concerts, exhibit halls, and the livestock sections are just as fun to explore and visit. However, many of us know our fair experience would not be complete if we pass up the smorgasbord of food options.

But where to start? The list is endless, but we have some great tips for you!

Local writers and Bakersfield Life’s “food dudes" Bill Trivitt, Kevin McCloskey, David Luter and Chris Hanson share their fair experiences, and most importantly, their food recommendations with us:

that benefit local clubs and charities.

Those places that have been around since we were kids: Corn on the cob from the Kiwanis, baked potatoes from the Boy Scouts, and corn dogs from the DeMolay booth. My wife, Michelle, and I will split a sandwich from the Basque Club. And I cannot resist the cinnamon rolls and funnel cakes so I share these with my daughter, Morgan and my son, William.

Trivitt Not only am I helping to raise money for these local charities and organizations, I’m also raising my cholesterol. Now I have to hear it from my doctor that I eat too much, but it's all good at the Kern Country Fair!

Bill Trivitt

Kevin McCloskey

The great Kern County Fair is upon us again, and my taste buds are jumping with anticipation. In the words of Templeton from "Charlotte’s Web," the fair is a veritable smorgasbord. With all the variety available, I tend to gravitate toward the food booths

As a kid, Mom would take my sister and me out of school for a day to go to the L.A. County Fair, and it was one of the best days of the year. A trip to the fair was like going to the zoo, museum, rodeo and amusement park all in one day. In the '80s, I started attending

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Photo by Andrew Mockett

Here they come. Walking down the street. It's the Food Dudes! From left: David Luter, Chris Hanson, Bill Trivitt and Kevin McCloskey.

Photo by Felix Adamo

A sandwich from the Basque Club booth is at the top of many fair attendees’ food list. comes once a year. Our first stop each year is the DeMolay booth. Their quality dogs dipped in fresh-made batter and deep fried to perfection make my mouth water. After this little treat, we’ll head for the unforgettable Boy Scout booth with a giant potato on top. I’m sure they serve more than the potatoes, but their spuds are the best in the fair! Head down the road a bit more and bingo! The Italian Luter Dante Heritage Hall beckons us to try some outstanding spaghetti or just about anything else they serve.

If we still have room, there’s still more to be had. Keep walking toward to the live stock areas and bam! you’re facing the Basque Club. Some great sandwiches, never-ending ice cold beer, and we can always find some friends around to join us for a great time.

Chris Hanson the Great Kern County Fair and I learned it was a 10-day event. I could go back. I have been going back ever since, but, at the tender age of 45, the trip requires a bit of preparation, especially when it comes to the food. My preparation should begin a week before opening day with a steady diet of salad, carrots and air. When those gates open on Sept. 22, it's going to be tough deciding what to try first. For my McCloskey wife, it’s simple: swing by the Basque Club for beans, salsa, bread and a Sierra Nevada from around back.

Her only nod to fried food will be a bite of my foot-long corn dog from across the street. Since this year's theme is “Best in the West,” I'll try to focus on food cooked over an open flame. Finding good barbecued chicken and ribs should be no problem, and maybe I'll join Tamara for some Basque beans and a Sierra.

David Luter Hard as it is to believe, it’s that time of year again. Time for the Kern County Fair! My family and I are excited about this year’s lineup of entertainers (you’ll find us at Morris Day, En Vogue, and the Big Bad Voodoo Daddy shows), and, of course, the food. We all know that food at the fair may not be the healthiest, but it only

As the youngest “food dude” by a few months, and a Bakersfield transplant, I am a bit of a novice when it comes to the Kern County Fair. We all have our favorites and traditions when it comes to fair food, and the pastrami sandwich from Mack’s is at the top of my list. Yes ... it's really that good! I also have an extreme weakness for food on a stick.

Corn dogs, cheese, jalapenos, Snickers or Twinkies, serve it up on a stick, and I’ll give it a try. It’s the top of my Fair Food Pyramid. Just below stick-food comes fried food. Funnel cakes, churros, and elephant ears (for some reason, you West Coast folk call them Indian fry bread) are Hanson some of my favorites, but I’ll keep an eye out for anything new and creative.

For the pyramid’s foundation, I'll look for gigantic turkey legs, monstrous slabs of ribs, and some of the best smelling barbecue this side of Memphis. I'll be salivating like Pavlov’s dogs. This year, I may add another level to the pyramid and try to find the best chile verde at the fair.

Come out and join us Sept. 22 through Oct. 3, and whether you head straight for your favorites or go looking for something new, tell them the “food dudes” sent you. www.BakersfieldLife.com

59

Photo courtesy of Mark Swaim

HOME & GARDEN

Artificial turf is maintenance-free and hard to tell from real grass.

The grass looks greener …

Artificial turf gaining popularity

By Gabriel Ramirez

I

f you find yourself wondering how your neighbor keeps his lawn so uniformly groomed and green, while despite all your efforts, you can’t achieve the same results. It might be time for you to take a closer look.

Your neighbor could be benefiting from the cost-saving and natural look of artificial turf, which has become the latest trend in the not-so-avid climate of Bakersfield.

“There have been major improvements in artificial turf over the last year,” said Mark Swaim, owner of Southwest Greens of Bakersfield.

According to Swaim, it can be pretty difficult to tell the difference between natural sod and artificial turf, if properly installed.

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September 2010

“With artificial turf, you pay upfront and have no on-going costs, like cutting, fertilizing, seasonal maintenance, herbicides, pesticides or water,” Swaim said. “All you really have to do is blow off debris or hose it off.”

Swaim estimated that a 500-square-foot lawn costs about $4,500, and the best part of it is how it consistently looks good everyday of the year, despite weather changes.

“The only downside to artificial turf is that it is still hot to touch in direct sunlight in the summer times,” Swaim said. “This is easily corrected with a little scattered shade. It is not because of the heat but because of the direct sunlight.”

Wayne Cherry recently had artificial turf installed in the

front yard of his vacation home. He’s now getting ready to have it installed in the backyard of his home in Bakersfield.

“We started with it because we are not always at our vacation home to take care of it and maintain it,” Cherry said. “It looks like real grass, and it’s wonderful.”

Cherry said he was impressed with the artificial turf because of its look. The fact that it is also maintenance free and saving him water and gardening were just as convincing.

Phyllis Cox also ordered artificial turf installed in her front yard because she didn’t want to worry about maintenance.

“It is much easier to have the artificial turf,” Cox said. “It looks exactly like grass and even my dog enjoys sitting outside on it.”

Cox said she highly recommends the turf, especially for those who are looking to lower their water bill or conserve water.

“Artificial turf is great for people who want to spend more time enjoying their yard and not working on it,” Swaim said.

The manufacturers of artificial turf suggest replacement every 10 years, but Swaim said he has a product that is 15 years old and still looking good.

Swaim recommends that people thinking of installing artificial turf hire a trained professional.

“Make sure they are a licensed contractor, get a quote, ask lots of questions, and ask to look at their website and also the manufactures website,” Swaim said.

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COMMUNITY

Local ministry providing safe habitats for families in need

By Dana Martin

E

Estela Sanchez paints under the eaves of a home on East Sixth Street that Habitat for Humanity bought from the city of Bakersfield.

very 21 minutes, Habitat for Humanity provides a home that will take a family off the street or out of unsafe or overcrowded housing. Founded in 1976, the faith-based, nondenominational Christian housing ministry has built 350,000 houses across the globe and created a place to call “home” for nearly 2 million people, using the labor of local volunteers and community donations.

Habitat for Humanity is the eighth-largest homebuilder in the United States.

Many have heard of Habitat for Humanity but may not realize that the organization isn’t in the business of giving away free houses.

Dennis Wallace, executive director for Kern County’s chapter, explains that Habitat for Humanity-Golden Empire is more than a once-yearly Kern County Fair home-building event; the Kern County chapter has housed 44 families across Taft, California City,

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Photo by Casey Christie

A place to call home

Bakersfield, Delano, Tehachapi and Arvin since it formed in 1991.

“It’s a way for low-income working families to build their own homes. It’s not a giveaway,” said Wallace, who has been at his post a little over 12 years but has been in social housing programs for the past 30. Wallace says he loves his job because providing homeownership opportunities for low-income families is important, and Habitat has come up with an excellent way to do it.

Habitat for Humanity selects recipients of their houses based on three criteria: The family’s need for housing. If they live in substandard or overcrowded housing or are spending a huge percentage of their income on housing, they qualify; The ability to repay the loan. Only families that can show proof of income qualify; The willingness to partner. Families must donate 500 hours to the construction of their home or to another Habitat house.

What’s more, Habitat for Humanity-Golden Empire carries the no-interest loan.

“We use the economy of Jesus,” explains Wallace. “It says in the Book of Exodus that you don’t charge a poor man interest.”

So, they don’t. Instead, each family uses their 500 hours of labor as their down payment and is then responsible for a monthly mortgage of about $500 (an amount that includes taxes and insurance) over a 20- or 30-year period. Habitat carries the loan and receives the payments, then puts the money back into the organization to build more houses. The cycle seems to be working.

“Last year, we had our first family in Kern County pay off their mortgage,” said Wallace.

Usually, Habitat volunteers build homes from scratch, but in the last two years, because of the belt-tightening economy and plummeting housing prices, Wallace says it has been more cost-efficient for the group to purchase and refurbish foreclosed homes than to gather materials to build from the ground up.

“Our donations are down 20 percent from last year,” said Wallace about how the economy has affected the organization. “Habitat must raise all their money here locally. We don’t receive funds from Habitat for Humanity-International.”

In the same way families affected by the economy must find creative methods to put food on the table, Habitat must also find alternate means to generate revenue and bring awareness to their organization.

This year, you won’t see volunteers at the Kern County Fair building a Habitat for Humanity house — funds aren’t available.

Nonetheless, Habitat still plans on a presence at the familiar event and will be constructing much smaller projects they hope will help supplement the donations they already receive from local churches and the community.

“We will challenge local service clubs and businesses to come out and build playhouses — 10 playhouses in 10 days of the fair.”

After the fair, Wallace says Habitat will auction off each of those houses and use the money to help create new Habitat homes for 2011. “We hope to raise $10,000,” he said.

The money from the auctioned playhouses, however, won’t be enough to sustain the organization’s need throughout the year, so Habitat for Humanity-Golden Empire uses their nonprofit retail outlet called ReStore, a second-hand type facility that specializes in the resale of quality new and previously owned building materials, home furnishings and appliances at 50 percent to 75 percent off retail prices.

“People bring us leftover building material, sinks, facets, light fixtures. We can use it all,” said Wallace. Shopping at ReStore makes home improvements more affordable for local homeowners and helps Habitat build more houses.

“Last year, we made enough money to purchase a Habitat home.”

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity and see firsthand how they are improving the community, Wallace invites the public to help them build their newest project at 226 E. Sixth St. in Bakersfield. Wallace says they’d love the help.

“Volunteers don’t need special training or skills. It’s not rocket science. Just come out and we’ll show you what to do.”

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Danielle Wade Bright House Networks vice president of customer care and marketing How has technology made your work and personal life easier?

My favorite technology is the DVR (digital video recorder) from Bright House Networks. With our family’s demanding schedules, it is so nice to watch television when it is most convenient for us.

What is one piece of technology you can't do without? I love Bright House Networks’ Start Over! It is exclusive to Bright House Networks, and it allows me to start some of my favorite shows over from the beginning without having taped them on our DVR. When I’m coming in the house trying to get dinner on the table, I don’t stress about tuning in to our local news right when it starts. I know I can just push a button, and it will start right over at the beginning.

What kind of phone do you have? I have the Sprint Snap.

Do you have any technology routines you do every 64

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day? I check e-mail on my phone every morning, first thing. We have offices on Eastern time so there is a three-hour jump to my day. By checking e-mails at 5:30 a.m., I feel like I can hit the ground running when I get to the office.

What do you think is the most positive thing that has come out of all the technology we have today?

People today have so many things that we try to balance, that when you have technologies to support the way you live, it makes things easier to get things done. I know I don’t have to be home to catch my favorite TV shows because I can set the DVR or just press Start Over. I stay connected with people like my kids teachers via e-mail and information is always readily available with Internet.

Honestly, I marvel at how we ever got things done before all of these exciting technological advances.

Do you think there is a downside to the amount of technology we have today? Just trying to keep up with all of the changes.

Photo by Casey Christie

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brain foods

Boost concentration, memory, learning Hospice: care in critical moments Health & wellness resource guide Calorie burning calculator

Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

Photo by Doug Kessler

Health&Wellness

Hoffmann volunteer Dave Dowdy, a massage therapist, treats Lorraine Dauwalder to a massage specially developed for the terminally ill.

The heart of hospice Providing the right kind of support for those critical moments

By Gabriel Ramirez Losing a loved one can be emotionally draining and heartbreaking.

But the process can be made easier to cope with given proper assistance.

When Dawni Fauke realized her mother had reached a point where she needed constant care, she turned to Hoffmann Hospice for assistance.

“We were going to try and care for her ourselves until my mom got to the point where she was very, very sick,” Fauke said. “I felt like Hoffmann was an advocate for her, and they were there to look out for her best interest.”

The support was unforgettable.

“It wasn’t just the medical attention. Hoffmann sent volunteers

Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

to watch TV with her, read with her, walk and talk to her,” Fauke said. “They also helped me. They would break things down for me, and they gave me ideas to cope.”

Hospice care provides medical attention for terminally ill patients and support for family members. A lifeline for many families, yet others still don’t see hospice care for the good it can do.

“I associated hospice with a negative connotation, but had the exact opposite experience,” Fauke said. “They are caring and have so much patience and never made it feel like a business.”

Beth Hoffmann, director of operations for Hoffmann Hospice, said there are many reasons why people refuse to consider hospice.

“Lack of communication between patient and family or patient and physician, denial that death is near or a mistaken belief that

hospice care is unaffordable or only for the imminently dying are a few reasons why people refuse to consider hospice care,” Hoffmann said.

Todd Jeffries, director of operations for Optimal Hospice Care, encouraged loved ones to try the service for a week or two.

They can always discontinue the services, if it isn’t what they expected.

“We often find that families have the impression that hospice is reserved for the last few days of life, but we can help people enjoy the time they have so much more when we get the opportunity to provide support for the last several months of a person’s life,” Jeffries said.

If you decide that hospice care is something you need to help your loved one live their final moments as best as possible, then you can look into the services provided by Hoffmann Hospice, founded in 1995, or Optimal Hospice Care, founded in 1998.

Hoffmann Hospice offers a host of end-of-life services for adults, children and their families. Services include pain

…the taxing effect the symptoms can have on individuals and their family can be both physically and emotionally exhausting.

When managing a terminal illness the afflicted person often struggles to identify or articulate when they want to change their course of treatment.

In times like these, individuals and their loved ones are looking for comfort and relief. They need help, guidance and support for what they are experiencing.

R.E.L.I.E.F. can be found when we help Reduce symptom complications in End of Life

and symptom management, physician and social services, spiritual and bereavement services, medial equipment, medications and 24-hour access to on-call hospice nurses.

“In addition, our volunteers work with our patients, and we offer wonderful supplemental services like private transportation, pet therapy, massage therapy and a program that helps patients celebrate anniversaries, birthdays or other special occasions,” Hoffmann said.

The Optimal Hospice Care team consists of nurses, doctors, certified home health aides, medical social workers, spiritual counselors and volunteers who provide companionship and support for the family.

“When the focus of medical care changes from cure to comfort, Optimal Hospice Care can provide physical, emotional, practical and spiritual support for the entire family,” Jeffries said. “By utilizing the most modern pain and symptom management techniques combined with a compassionate support system, hospice Continued on page 4

Illnesses and provide Emotional support for Family and friends.

R.E.L.I.E.F. is an application of focused care for patients with life-limiting illness.

Physicians are gifted healers; however, not all diseases are curable. In some cases, a time comes when the treatment is worse than the disease. Optimal Hospice Care has specially trained physicians, nurses, social workers, spiritual counselors and others to provide R.E.L.I.E.F. Our goal is to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of individuals and their families, all under the direction of the patient and family.

R.E.L.I.E.F. means focusing care on feeling the best you can when the disease cannot be cured. The application of R.E.L.I.E.F. through hospice changes

Hoffmann Hospice patient Lorraine Dauwalder spends some quality time with her cello.

the way your disease is managed, from curative treatment to aggressive comfort. Optimal Hospice and your doctor use the procedures and medications needed for controlling the symptoms of your illness.

There are many examples of curative treatments that may have failed or are losing their effectiveness where patients may be seeking relief. These may include chemotherapy in cancer, excessive fluid overload in congestive heart failure, severe or frequent trips to the emergency room for COPD, recurrent stoke symptoms or a decline in one’s physical function or nutrition status for patients with debility or Alzheimer’s.

Comfort and R.E.L.I.E.F. consultations are free from Optimal Hospice Care. We’re here to help.

www.optimalcares.com Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

Hoffmann nurse Laura Burns comforts Gilberto and Rosa Hinojosa during their daughter’s high school graduation. Attending the ceremony was Gilberto’s last wish.

It’s about life and making the most of every moment.

helps reduce the overwhelming stress and anxiety that can come with caring for a loved one with a life-limiting illness.”

Hospices also offers assistance for the families of terminally ill patients.

“In many hospice situations, providing physical comfort from pain and disease-related symptoms may be the easy part of the hospice team’s job. In these cases, it may be that providing an outlet for grief, reducing stress and lowering the anxiety level is the main focus for the hospice team,” Jeffries said.

Hospice care also consists of counselors and volunteers who can guide patients and families through the overwhelming grief and anxiety associated with the loss of a loved one.

“Medical social workers and spiritual counselors are available to be a listening ear and to help process thoughts, fears and concerns,” Jeffries said.

Optimal Hospice Care grief support groups are conducted on a weekly basis and are open to not only hospice families but for anyone in the community who would like to attend.

Optimal also has support groups just for children.

“People often say that they can’t understand how we can work with the dying — that it must be the most depressing job ever. But it’s not,” Hoffmann said. “Each of us will die one day. We can’t do anything about that, but we can sure make the end-of-life journey a whole lot easier.”

For more information about hospice care visit optimalcares.com or hoffmannhospice.org.

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Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

Health&Wellness

Berries boost memory and help fend off dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Eight great foods for healthy brains

By Bakersfield Life staff

1. Berries

Berries, full of memory-boosting nutrients, will help prevent oxidation, which is damaging to brain cells and is closely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

2. Cherries

Anthocyanins, which give cherries their bright red color, possess anti-inflammatory properties that could work like pain medications but without the nasty side effects. Cherries also contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which help stave off heart disease and dementia.

3. Apples

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is right on. Apples

Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

contain chemicals that can protect the brain from the type of damage that triggers neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Quercetin is one compound found in apples that protects the brain from oxidative injury in animal studies. Phenolic acids are other chemicals found in apples that protect against damage by bacteria, viruses and fungi.

4. Curry

Turmeric, the yellow spice in curry, contains curcumin, which offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used in treating Alzheimer’s due to the reduction in beta amyloid deposits and plaques associated with the disease. Curry even shows results of higher test scores on mental performance opposed to those who never eat curry.

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Turmeric, found in curry, helps reduce inflamation and oxidation in the body.

5. Eggs

Egg yolk contains the most important nutrients for sharper brains: choline. It is important to get choline in fetal development and early childhood to help us learn and retain the knowledge we are gaining. It also allows us to keep our memory intact as we age.

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6. Sardines

The fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to be instrumental in maintaining brain function from early development through life. Components of fatty acids in fish go to the Continued on page 8

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Health&Wellness Continued from page 7

synapses of nerve cells and are important to show how neurons communicate with one another, positively influencing learning and memory.

7. Oysters

Oysters are rich in iron and zinc, for wandering minds that might lapse here and there. Studies show that without iron and zinc the ability to concentrate and to recall words is reduced.

8. Cocoa

Cocoa can improve blood vessel function and will boost circulation throughout the body and blood flow to the brain. Cocoa also is shown to help reduce the formation of damaging clots that cause heart attacks and strokes. However, it is also a good thing to keep chocolate treats to a minimum.

Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

Iron and zinc in oysters aid memory and concentration.

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Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

Health&Wellness

Feel the burn When you’re considering that afternoon snack, here’s a breakdown of how to burn those calories.

30-minute activities* Running (a 9-minute mile): 422 calories Walking (at 4 mph): 173 calories Stationary biking (moderate speed): 269 calories Golfing (carrying clubs): 211 calories Golfing (in cart): 134 calories Housecleaning (general): 134 calories Mowing lawn (power mower): 173 calories Mowing lawn (hand mower): 211 calories Gardening: 173 calories

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Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

One-hour activities* Making the bed: 145 calories Jogging in water: 581 calories Walking to work or class: 290 calories Doing laundry: 156 calories Walking with crutches: 363 calories Playing guitar while sitting: 145 calories *for a 160-pound person Sources: • healthdiscovery.net/links/calculators/calorie_calculator.htm • livestrong.com/thedailyplate/fitness/exercise/servingfood/ • fitness.families.com/blog/howmanycaloriesdoyouburnwhilewalking

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RESOURCE

GUIDE Health clubs Anytime Fitness: anytimefitness.com 3001 F St., Unit B. 328-0311 4725 Panama Lane, 836-1500 10618 Hageman Road, 854-1500 Body Xchange Fitness Spa: bxfitness.com * 7701 White Lane, Suite A-4, 837-2639 7650 McNair Lane, 847-2639 2749 N. Calloway Drive, 410-2639 * 9500 Brimhall Road, 716-2639 13125 Rosedale Highway, 410-5000 1128 Truxtun Ave., 410-6000 13019 Stockdale Highway, 716-0200 2661 Oswell St., 377-0600 11206 Olive Drive (Express and Ladies Only Gym), 410-0200 12

Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

* Locations that offer spa services, such as tanning, massage and more 24 Hour Fitness: 24hourfitness.com 4302 Gosford Road, 398-1111 3633 Rosedale Highway, 325-3600 3400 Bernard St., 873-8000 In-Shape City: inshapeclubs.com 4801 White Lane, 398-4970 3409 Coffee Road, 615-6125 2681 Oswell St., 371-2990

1500 Haggin Oaks Blvd., 665-0606 Fit For Life Personal Training: 2204 E St., 325-0900 What A Racket Racketball & Fitness Club: 3500 21st St., 328-2255 Quest Personal Fitness: 2015 Westwind Drive, 321-0225 Lifetime Fitness: 2415 Eye St., 334-1986

In-Shape Tennis Club: 6901 Ming Ave., 833-3740

Therasport: 3700 Gosford Road, 832-9737

Bakersfield Racquet Club: 1660 Pine St., 325-8652

The Fitness Centre: 4725 Panama Lane, 833-6331

Personal Edge Fitness: 1801 19th St., 852-0606

IFS Exercise & Nutrition Center: 3807 Patton Way, 213-3189

Seven Steps Fitness Studio: 3201 Mall View Road, 716-7776

TerrioKids Easton: 4101 Easton Drive, 377-1700

NW Express Club: 13125 Rosedale Highway, 410-5000

The Terrio Edge: 3521 Alken Road, 410-3343

Women-only gyms

Aquatics Center: Inside the Arthritis Association Adaptive Aquatics Center, 1800 Westwind Drive, 663-9675

Body Xchange Express and Ladies Only Gym: 11206 Olive Drive (Olive and Jewetta), 410-0200 Total Woman Fitness Center: 5329 Truxtun extension, 325-0208 9901 Hageman Road, Suite 900, 5888239 Curves for Women: 1-800-257-5332, curvesinformation.com 4713 Planz Road, 836-0380 9500 Flushing Quail Road, Suite 502, 589-2380 1129 Olive Drive, Suite D, 393-1241 3709 Columbus Ave., 873-1776

Personal training CW Circuit: 832-3157 7001 White Lane 7420 District Blvd.

Personal Training With Jaime: 8501 Camino Media, 900-5081 Personal Edge Fitness: 1500 Haggin Oaks Blvd., 665-0606.

The Hit Zone: 5558 California Ave., Suite 240, 326-7569 Roland’s Personal Fitness: 2100 19th St., 325-3488 Thompson Fitness: 3900 Coffee Road, 588-5030 10 Count Boxing Club: 3000 Mall View Road, 873-7500

Physical therapy Terrio Therapy-Fitness: myterrio.com 9000 Ming Ave, Suite T1, 663-9675 Riverlakes Professional Plaza East, 3400 Calloway Drive, Suite 603, 615-6600 4300 Resnik Court, Building B, Suite 104 A (near White Lane and Gosford), 617-1182 2838 Oswell St., 873-7100 901 Tower Way, Suite 101, 638-0643 TerrioKids Memorial: Memorial Hospital Rehab Services Department, 420 34th St., 377-0044

Glinn & Giordano: ggphysicaltherapy.com 1201 23rd St., 327-4357 3700 Gosford Road, Suite G, 832-9737 2701 Calloway Drive, Suite 400, 589-9066 200 China Grade Loop, 615-6150 Marie Glynn Occupational Therapy: 1831 Truxtun Ave., Suite 150, 326-1433 701 Central Valley Highway, Suite C, Shafter, 237-6100 Central Valley Physical Therapy: centralvalleypt.com 8200 Stockdale Highway, Suite B1, 8278959 Neck and Back Center: 4550 Coffee Road #H, 587-0700 Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy: pairmarotta.com 1723 27th St., 634-9440 5337 Truxtun Ave., 324-0122 2601 Oswell St., Suite 105, 871-5908 20418 Brian Way, Suite 5, Tehachapi, 822-5483 Southcoast Physical Therapy: southcoastpt.com 1800 Westwind Drive, #107, 327-4685 337 S. 10th St., Suite G, 763-4194

Spas Essentials Spa at The Marketplace: marketplacedayspa.com 9000 Ming Ave., Suite K7, 654-0321 EuroPhoria Medical & Personal Spa Brimhall & Calloway 9500 Brimhall Rd Ste 707, 847-4772 Evolution Esthetics Spa: evolutionesthetics.com 1002 19th St., Suite 205, 323-5880 La Dolce Vita: 2100 19th St., Suite B, 861-4900 Paragon: 4865 Truxtun Ave., 323-1861 House of Color: 9500 Brimhall Road., 213-3111 La Petit Poulette: 5301 Office Park

Drive, Suite 365, 323-7700 Allure Salon & Day Spa: 1907 17th St., 859-1110

Health food stores Cone’s Health Foods: 8200 Stockdale Highway, 832-5669 Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins: 4308 California Ave., 324-6990 Trader Joe’s: 8200 Stockdale Highway, 837-8863 Cay Health Foods: 902 18th St., 325-7627 Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market: freshandeasy.com 1801 Planz Road, 831-8574 11100 Olive Drive, 589-0028 5190 Stockdale Highway, 859-0493 6601 Stine Road, 837-2116 11200 Brimhall Road, 587-0792‎

Senior resources

These community groups and organizations assist in the day-to-day lives of Kern County seniors. From activities to legal assistance, help can be found with just a couple of simple phone calls.

Aging Adult Protective Services: www.co.kern.ca.us 5357 Truxtun Ave., 868-1006 Part of the Kern County Aging and Adult Services Department, this unit investigates reports of elder or dependent adult abuse. Abuse can be physical or financial and may include abandonment, isolation, neglect and self-neglect.

Kern County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: gbla.org 615 California Ave., 323-7884 The program’s trained staff and volunteers investigate and resolve complaints made by, or on behalf of, people living in nursing homes, convalescent hospitals, assisted living or residential care facilities for the elderly. Staff and volunteers investigate reports of abuse and neglect and advocate for the rights of the residents.

Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County: adakc.org 5500 Olive Drive, Building 1, 393-8871 The mission of Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County is to maintain and enhance the quality of life for Continued on page 14 Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

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those affected by this disease. Adult day services include light breakfasts, lunches and snacks. Prices vary depending on income.

Kern County Aging and Adult Services: www.co.kern.ca.us/aas 5357 Truxtun Ave., 868-1000 The information and referral program helps adults 60 and older identify programs and services to meet specific needs.

Services are free to individuals as well as family members and caregivers of an age-qualified person in the areas of Social Security; Supplemental Security Income; Medicare; Medi-Cal; transportation; in-home support for the elderly, blind, or people with disabilities. They provide Adult Protective Services, In Home Support Services, Senior Nutrition, which includes Meals on Wheels, Caregiver Support, Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program.

Kern County Veterans Service Department: www.co.kern.ca.us/veterans 1120 Golden State Ave., 868-7300 Provide veterans free of charge, counseling advice, and assistance to veterans and/or their dependents regarding rights, benefits, and privileges available to them under federal, state and local laws, regulations and policies.

North of the River Recreation and Park District: norfun.org Rasmussen Senior Adult Center — Oildale 115 E. Roberts Lane, 392-2030 Provides transportation, home-delivered meals, homemaker and recreation programs for seniors.

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program: volunteercenter.info 1400 Chester Ave., Suite J, 395-9787 Program by the Volunteer Center of Kern County provides opportunities for adults 55 and older to offer service to the community. Various sites are available to place senior volunteers in governmental, nonprofit and health care agencies.

Senior Brown Bag Program: capk.org Sites throughout the county, 398-4520 Coordinated by the Community Action Partnership of Kern's Partnership Food Bank with pantries and commodity sites throughout the county.

Seniors Law Center: gbla.org 615 California Ave., 325-5943 Representation is available in areas of public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income, Medi-Cal, food stamps and general assistance, Social Security (Title II) and Medicare, in-home supportive services and institutional care, subsidized housing, tenant protection, elder abuse and mobile home tenancies and eviction defense.

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Bakersfield Life 2010 Health & Wellness

5357 Truxtun Ave., 868-1000 The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program provides free assistance with Medicare problems and other health insurance issues for seniors and disabled adults.

All Homecare: all-homecare.com 31 H St Suite #1, 323-0001 Enables individuals to remain in their own homes with their own familiar and comfortable surroundings. Personal one-onone care provides a higher quality of life and a faster recovery while at home than being facilitated.

A Helping Hand Senior Care Services: helpinghandseniorservices.com 1607 Spanke Street, 302-4856 Free referral service that provides a full spectrum of placement options for seniors. Helping Hand tailors aid for seniors based on their particular needs, budget, lifestyle, location, social, cultural, and personal preferences.

Hospitals and medical care Bakersfield Family Medical Center: bfmc.com 4580 California Ave., 327-4411 Bakersfield Heart Hospital: bakersfieldhearthospital.com 3001 Sillect Ave., 316-6000 Bakersfield Memorial Hospital: bakersfieldmemorial.org 420 34th St., 327-4647 Good Samaritan Hospital 901 Olive Drive, 399-4461 HealthSouth Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital: www.healthsouthbakersfield.com 5001 Commerce Drive, 323-5500 Kern Medical Center: kernmedicalcenter.com 1700 Mt. Vernon Ave., 326-2000 Mercy Hospital: mercybakersfield.org 2215 Truxtun Ave., 632-5000 Mercy Southwest Hospital: mercybakersfield.org 400 Old River Road, 663-6000 San Joaquin Community Hospital: sanjoaquinhospital.org 2615 Chester Ave., 395-3000

Senior day care Chateau d’Bakersfield / Wellness Center: chateaudbakersfield.com 824 18th St., 322-4085 An adult day health care center providing assistance for

mentally impaired and physically disabled participants, offering transportation, case management services, occupational physical therapy, meals and activities. Cost covered

by Medi-Cal. Program hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday for adults 18 years and older.

ElderLife: kernmedicalcenter.com 1111 Columbus St., Suite 5000, 326-6595 An adult, day health care program that provides case-managed medical, therapeutic and social services on an outpatient basis. Program hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday for adults 18 years and older.

Adult Day Services Program: adakc.org 5500 Olive Drive, 393-8871 Adult Day Care Center, specializes in care of patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Activities are held throughout the day, two meals are served, and support groups are also offered for caregivers.

Kern Adult Program: 2900 Eye St., 323-4700 Day program for adults with developmentally disabled abilities. Sponsors activities, helps clients develop skills, and go on outings. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Activity centers Bakersfield Community House: 2020 R St., 327-8835 Bakersfield Senior Center: 530 Fourth St., 325-1113 East Niles Senior Center: 6601 Niles St., 363-8910 Greenacres Community Center: 2014 Calloway Drive, 392-2010 Greenfield Senior Center: 1751 McKee Road, 834-9041 Rasmussen Senior Adult Center: 115 E. Roberts Lane, 392-2030 Richard Prado East Bakersfield Senior Center: 2101 Ridge Road, 323-8624

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The Trahans

Justin and Kristi Trahan with their dogs, Cynder, left, and Koufax, in their backyard in northwest Bakersfield.

There’s so much to love about our town. From Rio Bravo to Rosedale, each neighborhood has its supporters. This month, Bakersfield Life asks the Trahans what makes northwest Bakersfield special.

Has lived in the northwest for: One month!

Three words to describe your neighborhood: Spacious, friendly and classic.

Best memory in your neighborhood: We moved in one month ago, so we are just beginning to build memories in our first home. We spent a few weeks making it ours before moving in. Our best memory so far is sitting down the first night we stopped working long enough to cook and have dinner. We were very excited to start enjoying the place!

Favorite neighborhood activity: It’s been quite warm since we’ve moved in, so we haven’t had the chance to enjoy too many outdoor activities — other than our

pool — but shopping centers are close by, and plenty of beautiful neighborhoods surrounding us that we are anxious to take our bikes through.

What attracted you to the neighborhood: We decided on the neighborhood because it was established with many large trees and great landscapes and it quickly felt like home. It’s in a great area of town and we like that many activities, including family and friends’ homes, are nearby. A number of the houses on the street have been owned by the same families for many years. There is a great sense of establishment, pride of ownership and it will be an excellent place to start our family.

What you like most about your neighbors: We’ve had a few neighbors that have been really nice and welcoming bringing us produce from their trees and gardens. It’s a great place for us to be.

What you would change: We’re in a good location for us to get to our jobs and activities. We’re feeling very blessed with our home and the neighborhood we live in.

We haven’t found anything we’d change yet! www.BakersfieldLife.com 67

Ryan Bingham

Photo courtesy of Ryan Bingham

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

"Crazy Heart" songwriter once called Bakersfield home

By Matt Muñoz

R

oots rocker Ryan Bingham is about to have a sort of homecoming.

The singer-songwriter recently seen and heard in the musical-drama “Crazy Heart,” a film that earned him a 2010 Academy Award for Best Original Song with “The Weary Kind” will perform at BRyder’s Bar & Grill 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12.

Touring year-round with his band, The Dead Horses, Bingham’s Bakersfield stop is about to bring him back to some childhood stomping grounds. Coming from a family of New Mexico ranchers, some financial setbacks sent the Bingham family, along with many others, west in search of work.

“When I was about five years old, my family and everybody moved out to Bakersfield and Oildale to work in the oilfields after they lost the ranch. We lived in this apartment complex on White

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Lane, and I went to Leo B. Hart Elementary School,” remembers the 29-year-old. “I played soccer, and I think I might even have played football, too. We moved down to Long Beach for about a year, then back to Bakersfield.”

Following better work prospects, the family returned to make a few stops around Texas. During Ryan’s teenage years, competitive bull-riding became a source of steady sport that included more than a few bumps along the way.

“My uncle rode bulls, so I just grew up around them, and he kinda got me into it when I was young. I got into some, junior rodeos. Knocked my teeth out, broke some ribs, got banged around a little bit.”

Fortunately, a safer interest in guitar playing began taking root after a family friend provided some early lessons. Soaking up the sounds of everything from Bob Wills to Bob Marley, music soon be-

Carrie Underwood returns to Bakersfield

Local fans, get ready for Grammy Awardwinning country artist Carrie Underwood who will perform 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 29, at the Bakersfield Rabobank Arena.

The most successful of the American Idol TV alumni, Underwood’s platinum-winning streak continues to “Play On,” just like her latest CD of the same name.

Hailing from Muskogee, Oklahoma, Underwood’s childhood was spent like an allAmerican girl singing in church and participating in local talent shows. Post graduation, she followed the road to college. Meanwhile, she continued to sing in the area. Making the trek to St. Louis, Missouri in 2004 for her fateful Idol audition to face the critical ear of the show’s judges, Underwood was predicted to easily win and did in the 2005 finals.

Recently married to Ottawa Senators ice

came a focus, and it was soon off to earning his stripes inside smoky beer joints. Inspired by life on the road, his experiences soon became his traveling repertoire that helped fill two critically acclaimed releases — 2007’s “Mescalito,” and 2009’s “Roadhouse Sun.” Both produced by former Black Crowes guitarist, Marc Ford.

The soundtrack to a well-traveled journey across the asphalt trails from Texas Ryan Bingham & to California, Bingham’s The Dead Horses raspy drawl and country rock With special guests melodies raised the eyebrows When: 7 p.m. Sunday, of music fans of every kind.

Sept. 12 Popular among the underWhere: BRyder’s Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane ground scene, but maybe Admission: $20 / All Ages not “polished” enough for Information: 397-7304 pop country radio, Bingham would soon get the chance to introduce himself to the biggest audience of his life. Getting the call to compose the theme song for an upcoming film project, featuring veteran actor Jeff Bridges, Bingham took up the director’s offer after reading through the movie’s script.

“I got approached by the director Scott Cooper, who had a couple of my previous records. We went and had some lunch, and he approached me about writing a couple of songs. He gave me a lowdown on what was going on in the movie. Then I went on the road with the band for a couple of weeks and started writing the song, trying to describe this character ‘Bad Blake’ and what he was going through.”

The movie was “Crazy Heart,” the story of a fallen country music star played by Bridges, who gets a second chance at a career, thanks to those he influenced musically. Bingham’s work with music producer T-Bone Burnett on the film’s score would lead him and Bridges to the 2010 Academy Awards. Bridges winning an Oscar for Best Actor for his role in the film, plus Bingham’s Best Original Song, would cap off a big year for the pair.

“Everything was just blowin’ and goin,” said Bingham. “Businesswise, it’s opened a lot of doors.”

hockey player Mike Fisher this past July, the 27-year-old newlywed’s career is an evergrowing list of accomplishCarrie ments, including Underwood Grammy Awards, “Play On” Tour induction into When: 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 29 Nashville’s Grand Where: Rabobank Ole Opry, and Convention Center, Academy of 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $34 - $54 Country Music Information: 852-7777 (ACM) Awards www.ticketmaster.com for “Entertainer of the Year” in 2009. Not to mention all the crossover music hits regularly heard on country and pop music stations across the nation.

Her appearance last November was sold out so get your tickets before the sell-out.

In the calm of post-Oscar glitz, the singer looks forward to getting back on the road in support of his new full-length disc, “Junky Star,” out Aug. 31. Without a jaded bone in his body, Bingham’s looking forward to heading back to the stages that helped shape his artistry and the city he once called home.

“People kind of change around you, but other than that, you still wake up and drink coffee from the same cup you did before. I’m looking forward to playing back in Bakersfield.”

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Photo by Casey Christie

P E R S O N A L I T Y

Scarlett Sabin poses with Ronald at the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House near Memorial Hospital.

Room at the inn Scarlett Sabin ensures Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House always has vacancy

By Dana Martin

S

ome people say that their work is their life, but no one could mean it as much Scarlett Sabin, who has quickly become the face of an important local facility that provides a temporary home to families with an ill child.

Sabin, the house manager for the sparkling new Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House, is so passionate about her work with BRMH that the line between where Sabin ends and where BRMH begins is a bit blurry.

“I don’t count how many hours I work. I do my job until it’s done. It’s not an 8-to-5 job,” said Sabin.

As a young girl living in Toledo, Ohio, Sabin showed the drive

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that would eventually aid her in running a program as big as the Ronald McDonald House, even when she was just a teenager. At 17, her family moved to Visalia, and Sabin wasn’t happy about leaving her friends, so she decided to live on her own.

“When I turned 18, I moved myself back to Ohio without a guardian so I could finish high school with my friends. After graduation, I moved back to Visalia,” she said, eventually finding her way to Bakersfield where she worked retail and attended college.

She joined the Junior League of Bakersfield, took a job with the American Cancer Society running the Discovery Shop and, through connections, received a job offer to work with the American Heart

Association as a youth market director (in charge of school site development and activities like Jump Rope for Heart). In 2001, she became its executive director.

Sabin doesn’t consider herself a job hopper; she says she loved the 10 years she spent with the American Heart Association, but when she learned she was on the short list of people to take charge of the planned Ronald McDonald House on the campus of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, she couldn’t help but give the idea some thought.

Sabin has a unique perspective on childhood illnesses. Her own son, Michael, was born with a birth defect, and she and her husband spent many nights at his bedside as he went through surgery every two weeks for the first seven months of his life.

Like others, Sabin first believed that the Ronald McDonald House was only for young children with cancer, but it isn’t. The mission of the Ronald McDonald House program is to provide a “home away from home” for families so they can stay close to their hospitalized child at little or no cost. Houses are designed to be a haven, where nothing else matters but healing a child. Families shouldn’t have to worry about where to stay, where to get their next meal or where they will sleep at night.

“My husband and I didn’t know what to do. We were scared, unsure, and no one seemed to understand,” she said, adding that her son received treatment at UCLA after spending his first 18 hours at Memorial Hospital, where he was born.

Working at BMRH was an easy decision for Sabin once she realized she had experience to offer families facing the most frightening

days of their lives.

“I have a special perspective. I have walked in their shoes,” she said.

Today, she spends most of her time at “the house love built” (the motto of the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House). Her job consists of running the daily activities of BRMH and placing families, even when there doesn’t appear to be room.

“We never turn anyone away,” said Sabin. “We are the world’s smallest House. We have just three bedrooms, but if we can’t place families, we have the Marriott that will take them and so will Carriage House Estates. There’s always room.”

Sabin credits the community with the immediate success of BRMH, from donations and volunteer labor that enabled the house to come in $40,000 under construction budget to the families who insist on cooking Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners so residents don’t spend the holidays alone. Bakersfield wants a Ronald McDonald House to succeed, she says. “In this community are many people who have stayed in a Ronald McDonald House across the country.

They want to ensure the success right here. Every dollar we raise stays local and is not sent to the national organization,” said Sabin.

For donations, Sabin says that even small amounts can pay for milk and eggs for a month. No donation is too small, and this community ensures their Ronald McDonald House has everything it needs. The phone “blows up” when Sabin puts the word out for help.

“It’s not just the house that love built,” said Sabin of the overwhelming assistance she receives from volunteers and donors. “It’s truly the house that this community built.”

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Photo by Andrea Scott

TRIP PLANNER

Mission Santa Barbara, founded Dec. 4, 1786, is the 10th of 21 missions built along the California coast.

The Real California Head back in time with trip along historic route

By Chelley Kitzmiller

F

rom its humble beginnings as a rough footpath in San Diego (now Presidio Park) that wound north 650 miles, linking missions and carrying the culture and language of Spanish Mexico, today’s El Camino Real is now a tangle of interstates, freeways, city streets and county roads. Take a trip back in time with stops along this historic route.

The route begins in the mid-18th century with Spain’s King Charles III, who, after learning that Russian explorers and fur traders were settling along the Alaskan coast, decided it was time to claim Alta California and establish colonial control. Successful colonization required three things: missions where priests could educate the Indians and convert them to Catholicism, presidios for the military and Spanish administrators, and pueblos for civilian

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September 2010

settlements.

Father Junipero Serra headed up the mission project and, between 1769 and 1823, he and his Franciscan followers built a chain of 21 missions that were a day’s travel apart by horseback, stretching from San Diego to Sonoma.

Traversing hundreds of miles with multiple stops along the way is too much for a weekend trip, but it is long enough to visit four of the missions and get a dose of what mission life was like. (If you have elementary school-age children, be sure to take a notebook and a camera so they’ll have firsthand information when they study the missions in school).

Consider starting your trip in Ventura with San Buenaventura, the “Mission By The Sea,” which was founded on Easter Sunday, March 31, 1782, by Father Junipero Serra. Intended to be the third

Photo by Chelley Kitzmiller

An estimated 380 bells mark the historic El Camino Real and its branches.

in the change, this small mission fell to the ninth due to lack of military protection. Here, the priests encountered a large population of friendly Chumash Indians, who were skilled in fishing, canoe building and weaving baskets so tight they could hold water.

Today, the mission is used as a parish church.

Further up the coast, Santa Barbara, the “Queen of the Missions,” stands in an amphitheater formed by the Santa Ynez Mountains and the curving coastline. I found the grounds in front of this exceptionally beautiful mission to be the perfect place to throw out a blanket and enjoy a box lunch or just to sit and smell the flowers.

The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island, who was immortalized in the character of Karana in the children’s novel “Island of the Blue Dolphins,” is buried in the mission cemetery.

A few miles after 101 turns sharply north, I made a right on 246, passed the Danish village of Solvang and came to Mission Santa Ines, the “Hidden Gem of the Missions,” founded Sept. 17, 1804, by Father Estevan Tapis. The walls of Santa Ines were barely up when they came tumbling down in an earthquake in 1812, and, like with most missions, the priests had their share of Indian uprisings and trouble from Mexico. Santa Ines overlooks the beautiful Santa Ynez River Valley. When I opened the parish doors, I was sure I heard the angels singing. Alas, it was the choir, but they sounded like angels. They have a great museum, gift shop and a magnificent rose garden that is breathtaking when in full bloom.

Heading the opposite direction on 246, toward Lompoc, is Mission La Purisima Concepcion de Maria de Santisima, which is on a 2,000-acre California State Historical Park. This one is a favorite with me because of its living history museum. Chumash homes, built of tule reed, tallow vats and pens full of oxen and other animals raised for work and food are on display. This is the only fully restored example of Spanish Colonial Mission architecture in the United States. The gardens show typical mission-era plants used for food, fiber, medicine and perfume. Placards identify each plant and its use, i.e., “Hollyleaf Cherry — the cherry pits were Continued on page 70 www.BakersfieldLife.com

73

crushed to prepare gruel known as atole.”

Many things contributed to the missions’ demise: Mexico’s independence from Spain and California’s independence from Mexico, corrupt Mexican governors, lack of supplies, Indian rebellions, secularization, the California gold rush, natural disasters and neglect.

In 1892, Anna Pitcher, director of the Pasadena Art Exhibition Association, proposed preserving El Camino Real. A decade passed before she found support with the California Federation of Woman’s Clubs and the Native Daughters of the Golden West. In 1904, The El Camino Real Association formed and began studying the original route and selected a marker — the now-famous cast-iron bell hung from an 11-foot bent guidepost.

The first bell was dedicated and placed on Aug. 15, 1906, in front of the Old Plaza Church in downtown Los Angeles. Today, an estimated 380 bells mark the historic El Camino Real and its branches.

I hope you enjoy your visit to the missions as much as I did. Even if you can only visit a few of them, you will be very glad you did.

Photo by Andrea Scott

Continued from page 69

Mission La Purisima Concepcion is located outside of Lompoc.

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Jane’s Jewelers 76

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

As a certified Brazilian Blowout hairstylist, I am eager to introduce you to the most innovative and effective smoothing treatment in the world.

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Kern's Cutest Kids Top 15 Winner’s Party July 13, 2010 Held at Pump It Up The Inflatable Party Zone Photos by Matt Jones View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

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First Wednesday Aug. 4, 2010 Held at Bakersfield Museum of Art Photos by Rodney Thornburg View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

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Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training Memorial Run Aug. 7, 2010 Held at Beach Park Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com Nancy Lovell and Bob Zeimet

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Rolling Roadshow Tour screening of “There Will be Blood” Aug. 8, 2010 Held at Kern County Museum Photos by Jan St. Pierre View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

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Nicole Saint-John and Robert Crewdson

Chad Dupraw and Demond Cole

Colleen Marion and Lindsay Haney

Jennifer Brown and Sofie Beem

Sinaloa NT RESTAURA MEXICAN

910 20th St. Downtown

327-5231 Open Tues. - Sun. at 11:15 am

Painting by Charlotte White

CLOSED MONDAYS

www.BakersfieldLife.com 83

Transition to Independent Living Casino Night Fundraiser Aug. 14, 2010 Held at Jam Events Center Photos by Rodney Thornburg View these photos and more online at BakersfieldLife.com

Rita and Mickey Gares, Casey and Brenda Shumate

Nate Harrison and Robin Polski

Gaham Klaiber, Alan White, Robin Swen and Byron Taylor

Jeff Koss, Kanoe Bandy, Jim Roberts and Sharon Cash

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Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Carrie and John Riel, Pama Mosier

Gary Bunk, Chris Blazey and Lanell Howell

Jody Thomas, Nathan Brown and Tara Carter

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THE LAST WORD

Christy Porter

Courtesy Photo

Founder and CEO of the Jasmine Nyree Day Center

Best part of my job: Having created a place for special-needs children where they can go and be themselves … regardless of their disability or inability to adapt in everyday life.”

Best piece of advice someone has given me: You can’t change the past, but you can improve your future.

On giving back to the community: To whom much is given, much is required. We believe that wholeheartedly, and we both have benefited from our community as kids so it’s only fitting that we give back to our community as adults.

Favorite sports team: I have two: the Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Lakers.

An important family tradition of ours: Sunday dinner. The kids set the table, and Mom and Dad cook.

On being a mom: It is the best gift I have ever received. If I had nothing else in life, the unconditional love of my children would be just fine.

Something very few people know about me: I’m a homebody.

On being a wife of a famous NFL player: My duties and my role as a wife is that of any wife 86

… I cook, I clean, and I yell at my husband to set the trash out.

Bakersfield Life

September 2010

Three things that define Bakersfield to you: The generosity of others; the way the community sticks together in the time of a crisis; and the small-town charm but big-city mentality.

4500 Wible Road

at the Entrance to Bakersfield Automall

834-6632 Se Habla Español

barberhonda.com

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