Bakersfield Magazine • 26-4 • The COOL Issue

19th Annual Corporate Farmers’ Market New Feature!

ACAP’s Patriotic Relocation Section Local & Fresh The Arts in Kern Salute to our Veterans VOL. 26 NO. 4

YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.

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Owning A Home of Your Own is Indeed

v

FALL 2009

“THE GREAT AMERICAN DREAM!”

Contents

f e at u r e s

19 th Annual C O R P O R AT E R E L O C AT I O N Special Section

For some time now, Mary & Raul have been serving the residential and commercial real estate needs of the people in this area. Among the many listings available, you’re sure to find a home, condominium, acreage or investment property that suits your needs perfectly.

If you are a first time buyer, they will be happy to assist and advise you in selecting your dream home. They will also assist you in arranging your mortgage, as well as other phases of real estate transactions.

Join the many satisfied customers who consider Mary and Raul with Mary Cruz Realty their friends in the real estate field... You’ll be glad you did!

• First Time Buyers • Post Foreclosure Homes • Loan Modification Programs • Credit Enhancement Programs • Representing–Arlington Park Residential Community With 44 Lots Now Available • Tax Credit of $8,000 Available until December 1, 2009

Mary Cruz 363-0038

Community support from all sides of the creek

mill creek linear park

43

Warning: shades and leather jacket required

THE COOL ISSUE

35

We’ve created an atmosphere for success

BIG Business

57

Raul Rodriguez 335-7600

BARC is stirring up some holiday magic

Magical Forest

109

All it takes is a little tea and self esteem Shh! We shouldn’t even be talking about it

Put their years of local experience to work for you!

Protecting Project x

Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

4500 California Avenue

61

Nonprofit Spotlight................114 Patriotism reigns supreme in Bakersfield

Keep Old Glory Flying...........115

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009

v

FALL 2009

Contents

D E P ART M E N TS Cooler than a Van Halen reunion concert

Why the snooze button is everyone’s friend

Letter from the Editor........15

Looking Good, Feelin’ Good....89 A steak dish so good they named it twice

Quick Bites..................92

Quips and quotes to answer your questions

Kern Facts

17

For this guy, it’s all about casual comfort

The Bakersfield Look.........29

This place will have you wanting “amore”

Whats Cookin’

93

Bring us the bands, Mr. Local Music Man

C i t i z e n K e r n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 3 1 The years before remotes and satellites

When T.V. Came to Bakersfield.....33 Bako, Bako, how does your garden grow?

Gardening with Mrs. P.........75 Easy decorating for the changing seasons

Home & Garden................79 Paper, plastic, cardboard...television set?

Going Green..................82

Twelve easy steps to Farmers’ Market bliss

Entertaining the Bakersfield way

95

Happy Hour star ts early at Narducci’s

Bottoms Up.......................98 One winery plus four counties equals gold

Life is a Cabernet................99 The true importance of avoiding layoffs

Human Resources.............119 Where did our roving cameras catch you?

Riding the rails through colorful Canada

Great Getaways 10 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

85

P a r t y C h a t t e r. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 2 6 Matinée time: grab a dime and stand in line

Bakersfield’s Sound........130

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 11

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS FALL 2009

home & Garden resources

Home & Garden....................79

Green

Pages

Green Pages.....................82

Looking Good, Feelin’ Good.....89

The Dining Guide The Dining Guide..................101

community partners Community Partners.............106

Shoppers Bazaar................120

MEDICAL PROFILES Medical Profiles...................122

Kern Health Resource Guide..123

Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory Worship Directory...............124

everafters...

Weddings............................125

12th annual

v

12 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

De Com c i 20 e m n g 09 b e r

KernHealth Issue

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 13

remembering

Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend

S

BAKERSFIELD’S ONLY CITY AND REGIONAL MAGAZINE Vol. 26 No. 4 The Cool Issue

Located in the luxurious 801 Truxtun Avenue

661-323-1900

bakersfieldmarriott.com

Publisher Les Corum Executive Editor Mike Corum Assistant Editor Anika Henrikson Garden Editor Lynn Pitts Historical Editor George Gilbert Lynch Wine & Food Editor Mike Stepanovich East Kern Editor Donna McCrohan Rosenthal Creative Director Chuck Barnes Graphic Artist Laura Turner Systems/Production Ryan Turner Sales & Marketing Brigit Ayers, Cheryl Rydia Douglas “Dale” Heflin Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez Social Media & Public Relations Miles Johnson Contributing Writers Holly Culhane, Jason Gutierrez Tracie Grimes, Loron Hodge Administrative Assistant Melissa Galvan Cover Photo Sharon Dominick

Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. 1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Office (661) 834-4126 Fax (661) 834-5495 Email: marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net website: bakersfieldmagazine.net Bakersfield Magazine is published bi-monthly by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2009 by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of Bakersfield Magazine is strictly prohibited. Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs, even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in Bakersfield Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Bakersfield Magazine management or owner. Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers. Subscription rate is $12 for 1 year, $18 for 2 years.

Subscribe now at bakersfieldmagazine.net 14 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Letter from the Editor

Yours truly being cool while riding the upright bass as a member of the world famous Fabulous Martini Brothers

Be Cool “...Man that guy is way cool; he’s like a Rolling Stone or something...”

Me? Way cool? Like a Rolling Stone?

Damn, those are some pretty “cool” words...

The compliment (at least I took it as one) was born from a conversation between our photo gal, Isabel, and a guy she met by chance the other day—at church no less. I’ll refer to him as “R.M.” Turns out that he is a good friend of my youngest son. I hadn’t seen him for years, but heard he was into repairing guitars...learning from one of the masters down in L.A. So I hired him to repair one of my favorite guitars recently, and it actually works again—and that’s cool!

But what was it about me that made his “list of cool”? I mean, I always thought I was cool, but to have it confirmed by someone else is, well, cool!

When most people were following the norm, I was always a little off the beaten path. In junior high I wore a post-Beatles mop-top hair cut, bell bottoms, and Harley-Davidson T-shirts.

High school was pretty much the same, with the exception of the T-shirts—they all had to be black. And my hair...I let it grow longer...you know, ’cause it was cool.

I was always in a cool band—even if the only place we ever played was the garage. I had some cool cars (a bad-ass raked ’75 Chevy El Camino, flamed), and really cool parents.

Shortly after graduation, I traded the bell bottoms for the “worn and torn” look inspired by MTV and the Hair Metal Movement, and the “Elco” for a cool ’71 Corvette. I was swimming in cool!

My band finally made it out of the garage and had a cool following and somewhere in between, I had a couple of cool kids and became the proud owner of a way-cool 1932 Ford 5-window coupe— just like the one in the movie that exudes cool, American Graffiti.

Y2k came and went and I replaced my long hair with a shorter do (and hair grease), grew some sideburns, worked from home in my own cool graphic design business, and met my über-cool future wife. Eventually, I grew my hair back out

and became the executive editor of this cool magazine. And life is, well, cool!

But, again, what made someone else think I was cool?

I guess it’s the fact that I never tried to be cool, I just did my thing. Sure, it took longer to get where I was going sometimes, but it was at the beat of my own drum...and that is exactly what our Cool Issue is comprised of. It’s the 30-plus coolest people, places, and things in all Bakersfield—with a twist!

These are not the things you would expect (and it’s not a popularity contest).

You won’t find Luigi’s or Dewar’s on this list. Neither will you see Wool Growers, The Crystal Palace, the Bakersfield Jam, Famoso Drag Strip, or the any number of other “well-known” really cool things our city has to offer. No, this is a list of the coolest things you’ve probably never heard of. And that, my friends, is cool!

The coolness starts on page 35.

This issue also features our 19th Annual Relocation Section and it’s better than ever with an extensive, in-depth article on the exciting (and really cool) Mill Creek Project. Plus, we’re introducing a couple of new regular features with this issue: Expressions (page 20), spotlighting the arts in Kern County; and Bottoms Up! (page 98), featuring some of Bakersfield’s favorite drinks.

So, put on your darkest shades and enjoy this issue and most importantly...be COOL! My inbox is always open

Mike Corum

comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 15

16 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Kern Facts

People • Places • Events

He’s CEO of Kern Medical Center and she’s Operations Analyst/Special Projects at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego. Obviously, they know the true meaning of multi-tasking.

What is your spouse’s biggest phobia?

Monique: Drowning...enough said.

Paul: Snakes. And, I suspect, losing her voice.

Which do you prefer: a quiet evening at home or a night on the town?

Monique: I definitely prefer a quiet evening at home. It is nice to unwind after a crazy day or week and reconnect as a family.

Paul: A (somewhat) quiet evening at home.

Between the two of you, who’s the better multi-tasker?

Monique: The nature of our fastpaced jobs requires us both to be multi-taskers. He’s amazing and so on top of everything. I’m strong with balancing multiple strategic initiatives at work while taking care of the family’s needs.

Paul: I would call that a tie. Our life together has been one big multi-task from the beginning.

in step with:

Paul & Monique Hensler Be honest—what was the first thing you thought when you met your future spouse for the first time?

Monique: I met Paul at my first Northern California Regional Sutter Health meeting. During the meeting, I noticed that he was incredibly brilliant and creative.

Little did I know at the time that we would be working together on some amazing projects and initiatives. The other thing I noticed was his baby blue, “Paul Newman” eyes.

Paul: I first met Monique in a business setting. She had been selected through a very competitive process for the one fellowship position that our health system offered each year. I did notice that she was quite beautiful, in an Audrey Hepburn sort of way.

What is the funniest thing that happened while you were dating?

Monique: Our escape to Willits and lost weekend in Mendocino.

Paul: Our escape to Willits and lost weekend in Mendocino. But there is a two drink minimum before I will tell the entire story.

What is the craziest thing your spouse has ever done for you?

Monique: He saved my life, so to speak. I was in a terrible head-on collision (a truck spun out of control into my lane during a rainstorm).

Paul witnessed the accident and had to extricate me as the car was beginning to catch on fire. It was a long recovery (most of my bones were broken and I couldn’t walk for six months) and Paul was there every step of the way.

Paul: She gave me a new sports car for my 50th birthday.

What is your least favorite and most favorite thing about your spouse?

Monique: I don’t experience some of the typical wife/husband pet peeves. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. So my pet peeve is the fact that he is so darn neat, organized, and efficient that I can’t keep up with him at times. OK, he

Who’s the first one to admit when they’re wrong?

Monique: I am. I suppose it’s my facilitative nature. Or, as my friends who say I do too much put it, I’m a pleaser. Ultimately, you just have to pick your battles and have a sense of humor about things.

Paul: She is, but that is because she has had more practice.

could turn down the volume on the TV. My favorite thing would be that he is the most thoughtful, giving, and supportive husband and father. And he has an awesome, irreverent sense of humor!

Paul: Least favorite is that her train of thought sometimes has no caboose. And the most favorite is her loving support of our family.

Daughter Alexandra is always ready to put on a show!

“ Her train of thought

sometimes has no caboose.” –Paul Hensler

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 17

A

L ist e x tra

WINNER!

T

he A-List is your ticket to... well...tickets. Of course, there are other awesome prizes, free stuff, and the chance to be a part of exclusive Bakersfield Magazine events, but don’t take our word for it. Just ask Jana Barton, our most recent A-List winner. Jana was the first person to spot her name in our last issue and email us at alist@ bakersfieldmagazine.net. And just for that, she won a $100 gift certificate to Uricchio’s!

She’ll be dining on us simply because she signed up for our A-List and actively reads her city magazine. The best part about being an ALister? It’s free. And who doesn’t like getting somethin’ for nothin’? Sign up today!

POP QUIZ H

ere’s a little something for all you trivia buffs. We’ve once again snapped a picture of a well-known place in Bakersfield and want you to identify it for us. It’s a bit of a stumper (we only know because we took the picture!) but we’re sure you’ll get it.

So if you’re in the mood to win $30 in gift certificates for Russo’s, just tell us where this picture was taken.

Think you know? Email your answer to comments@ bakersfieldmagazine.net and the first person to get it right is the winner. Good luck!

FRUITof the VINE

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/JLGutierrez/MIIICHA

Kern Facts

By Loron Hodge

K

ern County is famous for many things: country music, cotton, sports, charity events, restaurants, and a hundred others. But another of our claims to fame is a delicious and wholesome fruit grown right here in Bakersfield, Delano, Lamont, and Arvin: grapes.

Mention the names Di Giorgio, Pandol Brothers, Giumarra, Sun Pacific, Tejon Farming, Zaninovich, Caratan, and number of others and you immediately think of the wonderful grape production, both table and wine, that is grown here in Kern County. Grape production here speaks of Old World charm as many on the vineyards were planted after early pioneers realized the climate was well-suited for the raising of grapes.

Grapes were the first fruit mentioned in conjunction with Kern County. A geological report recorded the overgrown grapevines, loaded with fruit, which bordered Tejon Creek. The vines grew wild and were given picturesque names like Grapevine Canyon, Grapevine Peak, and of course the famous highway known to travelers as “The Grapevine.”

With the Italian heritage and hands-on experience, vast vineyards were planted in the late 1880s and early 1890s in Delano, Edison, and Rosedale. Simon Wible, along with two partners, formed the Wible Orchard and Vineyard Company in 1887. However, the biggest problem faced by these eager pioneers was the fact that water was not always available, and the water battle would continue until 1888 when an agreement was made to divide the waters

18 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

of the Kern River so all users would have the water they needed to raise their crops.

Land clearing and plantings began and the names of the farms that bear their names became synonymous with grapes. Thompson seedless grapes made great raisins, serving as not only a nutritious snack, but would be used in cooking of all sorts of cakes, cookies, and pies. Table grapes gained in popularity with many new varieties being introduced to the public. And, of course, wine grape production was becoming popular by mixing with other juices to make an industry all its own here in the county. Giumarra Winery has a long and successful history of production here. Much of the production today is sent to wineries in other parts of the state.

Today, production of wine and table grapes occupy second place in Kern County’s top crops with a value of $561,606,000 according to the Kern County Agricultural Commissioner’s report for 2008. While suffering through three years of severe drought, growers are still optimistic about the future of the grape industry. Though problems of insects, up and down markets, transportation, and storage problems occur, growers know they have a strong local consumer market and loyal outlets for their products. The economy depends on this and other commodities to provide jobs and support for agriculture business. Grapes have a heritage that has remained constant as a strong contributor to the wealth of Kern County for more than 150 years, and will continue in the future.

“Today, production of wine and table grapes occupy second place in Kern County’s top crops with a value of $561,606,000”

In & Around B•Town

The President of the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce decrees her five favorite things!

1

My family! Hands down, number 1!

2

Musicals. They make me smile and I wish the world was a little more like them.

3

Reading novels. It’s usually the very best way to wind down from the stresses of the day.

4

5

Any form of chocolate. My current favorite is a Fudgesicle because it has low fat and calories but still tastes exactly like it did when I was a kid.

Living in such a caring community. When there is a need in our community, everyone comes together to help.

DID YOU KNOW? O

ur world-famous Kern County Fair just wrapped up another terrific run.

But did you know that it was way back in 1892 that the Kern County Fair Grounds Association was organized!

Source: The Historic Chronology of Kern County

UCKY? DO YOU FEEL Ltheir hands on a $100

ho’s looking to get you, Sorella’s? Well if it’s up gift certificate to ng eri off ’re we at wh happens that’s a be is you’re in luck. It just so do d to ntest prize! All you nee we ue, iss as this issue’s A-List Co ch Ea g. you’re in the runnin member of our A-List and print them names from our list and so or en randomly pick a doz gear and be the pens to be printed, hop into below. If your name hap zine.net. ga @bakersfieldma first to email us at alist n!* we receive, you’ve wo If your email is the first ulous prizes, are d, not to mention other fab foo ian Delectable Ital truly amore! just a click away. That’s

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POWER OF PINK Brighton has created our exclusive Power of Pink Bracelet and Badge Clip.

For each of these pieces of jewelry purchased we will donate $5 to support Breast Cancer Research and Awareness.

ictoria’s In the Marketplace Open 7 Days a Week 665-8300

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 19

Kern Facts

expressions the life of a Deadite. It’s an already grueling existence marred by the constant failed attempts to kill one Ashley “Ash” Williams: the unassuming, big-chinned hero of our story.

eapon W l a i er vy’s A out the a N e b see th rn More A a Lake e m o a C & Le avy & Chin N

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Visit Our Gift Shop For Great Souvenirs

Have we lost you already?

Not to worry—all will be gorily revealed this October at the Spotlight Theatre, currently celebrating its 11th season, where director Jarred Clowes brings Evil Dead: The Musical center stage. Prepare for all the blood, Candarian demons, and good old-fashioned camp that the cult film series (including Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and Army of Darkness) produced set to deliciously raunchy—and comical—musical numbers.

“We are the first theatre on the West Coast to get permission to put on the production,” said Clowes. And that’s not to say other theatres haven’t been trying. Since Evil Dead: The Musical debuted (in 2003), off-Broadway production companies across the nation have been anxious to secure the rights to perform this deliciously-gruesome musical.

“When the rights [for the production] first became available, they were still on heavy restriction from Samuel French [a play/publishing rights house which owns the rights to shows like Fiddler on the Roof, The Color Purple, Hairspray, and others].

Evil Dead: The Musical boasts eight principals (including actors Rikk Cheshire as Ash and Jenn Sorkin as Cheryl) and six Deadites, demonic spirits possessing the living. And while most of the cast members have years of theatre experience under their belts, Clowes is quick to add that the Spotlight likes to nurture up-and-coming talent, cultivate young artists, and get everyone involved—and this is just the show to do it. Not only is this an all-singing, all-screaming production, it also requires a lot of technical prowess.

Make-up, elaborate sets, and blood—lots of blood.

w w w. c h i n a l a k e m u s e u m . o r g 20 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Did we mention blood?

“It’s going to be a nightmare,” Clowes joked.

“We need gallons and gallons of fake blood.

We’re actually in the process of concocting different recipes for consistencies and color. The ‘tech’ on this show is almost harder than the music and acting what with the prosthetics and masks.”

Fans of the movies won’t be disappointed— the story is in keeping with the films—and those unfamiliar with the story won’t be for long.

In addition, the music will be played live by local band Less Weight for Atlas, during the entire high-energy, terror-inducing production.

After all, Evil Dead is the “Ultimate Experience in Grueling Horror.”

The theatre is even raffling off the opportunity for one lucky winner to walk on stage and deliver the final line of the final production on Halloween night.

Evil Dead: The Musical is running through October, so check the theatre’s website (www.spotlightfound.org) for dates and times and remember to bring your poncho.

You’ll thank us later. EEE-YIKES!

319,797 5

The number of people in Kern County who have been issued library cards (as of 2008)

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/dem10

50-photo Visual Tours at www.MaryCrealtor.com

661301-MARY

301-6279

The number of recreational lakes in Kern County (excluding golf courses)

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/ANDERSONANDERSON

The year the first graduation took place at Kern County High School

50

899,684 The amount of money awarded to CSUB through the Noyce grant by the National Science Foundation in 2009

The average temperature inside the Bakersfield Ice Sports Center (Fahrenheit)

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The number of mayors Bakersfield has had since it became a city

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/

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©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/itsjustjeff

25

19

The number of adult programs at BARC Sources: CSUB, Kern Library Libraries, Bakersfield Ice Sports Center, City of Bakersfield, County of Kern, BARC Industries, Historic Chronology of Kern County

1895

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 21

Kern Facts

S Faith of a Dentist S

T

he disciples Church in Bakersfield actually had its beginning in the fall of 1887.

Elder J. M. Gilstrap, a traveling dentist who practiced dentistry during the day and preached at night, began a meeting on

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October 27, 1887. That meeting lasted until November 27, and was held in a tent, owned by Mr. Gilstrap, at the corner of Truxtun and K streets. Seven converts were baptized in the Kern River near the Rosedale Highway and a church was organized with 27 members. During the monthlong meeting, a Sunday school was organized with 22 present.

It met every Sunday afternoon in Wear’s Opera House until the Bakersfield fire in 1889.

In October of 1891, Elder Gilstrap returned to Bakersfield and held another meeting from October 10-30. During this meeting the church was officially organized on October 25, 1891. Two elders and a deacon were elected. On the third Sunday in April, 1892, R. P. Williams became the first pastor. He served for 3 1/2 months. There are no records of why he left or what was done until A. B. Markel arrived sometime in 1893 to serve the church as minister. The church was reorganized under his leadership and the first Sunday School Superintendent was appointed. That same year, a Business Charter was issued to the church by the State of California. The name

22 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

used was “The Church of Christ,” Bakersfield, California. The first Christian Endeavor Society, a youth group, was organized on April 30, 1893, with 11 members. During this time, church meetings were held in various places, such as the three opera houses in Bakersfield, the old County Court House, and the old Emerson School.

By 1896, a tabernacle was erected at 1660 Chester Street for a meeting in October and November. The women purchased and sewed 1,000 yards of sheeting for the tent. Then, in 1896, the first church at 16th and Eye was built. Labor was almost entirely donated.

September 6, 1900, the Golden Rule Association was organized.

It was later called the Ladies Aid, then the Women’s Council, and is now the Christian Women’s Fellowship. Golden Rule Hall was built by the ladies of the church as a meeting place at the rear of the property at 16th and Eye streets. On May 1, 1905 a rally was held, at which time the mortgage was burned and the church was debt free.

The church continued to grow and prosper during the next few years. In the fall of 1917, the first contributions were made to a building fund for a new and larger church. On September 3, 1919, a tabernacle was built on H Street, just south of the Santa Fe railway tracts, to house the congregation while construction was started at 16th and Eye streets.

On December 16, 1919, the new tabernacle was dedicated, free of debt. It seated over 1,000 people and a permanent choir of 75 furnished music. There was a total of 210 additions in less than six months. By February of 1921, the church had begun construction of a very handsome building, the estimated cost of which was $100,000, to accommodate the growing congregation.

Source: www.fccbakersfield.org

In & Around B•Town

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/rilueda

What’s Hot! What’s Not? A

new season means wonderful things for fashion!

New designs, new trends, and new choices. This fall is all about making a statement and showing off a wardrobe full of patterns and textures! Don’t be afraid to experiment and mix some of your late-summer items with more season-appropriate garments. Think how good those lacy tank tops will look under a light sweater. But, keep in mind, you are still in Bakersfield—so keep it simple and chic, not “extravagant Hollywood.”

Crude

Refined

Plain leather handbags Add texture and pizazz with an embossed, heavily-patterned handbag Hair pins

Come discover somethingN wonderful ow

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n Su

nda

ys 1

2:3

0pm -4:0

0pm

S Wall Art S Home or Office Decor S Botanicals S European Style Furnishings

The

and so much more...

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Girly headbands (lace or prints)

High waisted pants/shorts Mid-waisted

pants. Stick to the waistline The “neutral” trench coat

Try bold-colored trench coats in red or purple with pockets or large buttons

Two-colored hair: top-half blond, bottom-half brown Showing your bra strap

Color your hair one shade or try simple highlights

Invest in a bra clip

CAN’T FOOL ME!

Whether selling or buying, my personal knowledge based on over 45 years experience, covering all areas of real estate, will provide you with specialized service beyond your expectations. Please give me a call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

W

e tried to make it harder, but you guys are just too good—we once again had an overwhelming number of responses! Last issue, we vowed to make our Pop Quizzes a bit tougher and we thought we had, but Jeaneene Campbell couldn’t be fooled. She instantly recognized the photo we ran as the inside of Luigi’s Italian restaurant and emailed us her answer. Way to go Jeaneene! She won $30 in Russo’s Bookstore gift certificates.

You can be a winner, too. Be the first to email us the correct answer to this issue’s Pop Quiz at comments@ bakersfieldmagazine.net and you’ll be reaping the rewards just like Jeaneene!

Top Producer in Listings & Sales 2000-2007

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 23

Kern Facts Indian Wells Valley Concert Association presents Chris Brubeck jazz trio –Triple Play

E a s t K er n

Date Book

By Donna McCrohan Rosenthal

Fall Home Decor Now At: Bobbi’s Hallmark Shop

January

8200 Stockdale Highway Ste. F3 Bakersfield, CA 661-834-7467 24 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

October

ew officers have taken the helm and clubs approach the holiday season throughout East Kern.

The China Lake Rotary Club under 2009-2010 president Jinny DeAngelis has announced the annual joint Rotary & Kiwanis Lunch for Wednesday, November 25, the visit of District Governor Luz Maria Ortiz Smith on Wednesday, December 2, and a Rotary Information Program to kick off 2010 on Wednesday, January 6. Meanwhile, the Inyokern and Kernville Rotary Clubs have joined with Tehachapi Rotarians and others on a project benefiting the Casa Benabe orphanage south of Guatemala City.

The Indian Wells Valley Water District (IWVWD) continues its commitment to xeriscape education with the recently launched XERIC©—Xeriscape Education, Resource and Idea Corps. “Xeriscape” means landscaping designed specifically to cope with dry conditions and for water conservation. The IWVWD, with assistance from the Oasis Garden Club, will hold its 2009 Fall Xeriscape Workshop at the historic USO Building on Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m. to noon. Outdoor metal artist Mike Mumford will talk about “Art for the Desert Garden” and guest speaker Renée Günter will address “My Certified Wildlife Habitat in South L.A.” Seating is free but limited; reservation required. A “Water Wise Plant Sale” will run concurrently from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Contact: 760-384-5518.

The Indian Wells Valley Airport District, Inyokern, reports that 10 general contractors turned out for the pre-bid job walk on the terminal project, which will conclude with a particularly handsome future IYK facility. To keep things interesting until then, IYK has hosted Ford for a TV commercial and the BBC for a week of filming an episode of Top Gear.

The Indian Wells Valley Concert Association will offer Chris Brubeck Jazz Trio’s “Triple Play” on Wednesday, October 21, Golden Bough’s “A Celtic Christmas” on Tuesday, December 1, and the Brazilian Guitar Quartet on Monday, January 25 (iwvca.tripod.com; 760-375-5600).

Ridgecrest’s Maturango Museum has announced a concert series for several Friday evenings with performances repeated on the adjacent Saturday. The schedule: “American Art and Music” by Sergio Ramirez and Cathy Douglas, October 23-24; Classic Guitar by Dr. David Asbury, November 6-7; and (dates tentative) “Classics Extraordinaire” by the High Desert Music Teachers Association, January 29-30, 2010. Seating is limited and the museum staff urges, “Buy early” (maturango.org; 760-375-6900).

The museum also has plans for a Spring 2010 African tour including Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls, and the Chobe Animal Park in Botswana and another, in summer 2010, to the Passion Play at Oberammeragu. Retired professor Leo Giradot will organize and lead both tours (magics@ridgnet.net); 760-375-8737).

This December, the holidays will bring their own brand of merriment to Kernville with the Annual Candle Stroll & Live Nativity at Circle Park on Friday, December 4, Christmas in Kernville & Car Parade on Saturday, December 5, and Christmas Spectacular on Saturday, December 12 (kernvillechamber. org; 760-376-2629).

Feel good story for folks who hate calendars: The Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has posted directions for a five-day self-guided tour of the Mojave Desert and East Sierra at visitdeserts.com. The itinerary includes a unique itinerary of fascinating geological formations, ancient Indian cultural sites, unspoiled canyon trails, clear blue skies, starlit nights, antique and modern mining operations, and endless photographic opportunities (760-375-8202).

December

November

N

People • Places • Events

MORE LUCKY WINNERS! Ah, the perks of being an A-List member. You find out about events before anyone else, you win free stuff, you get to see your name in print! What more could there be?

Well, we can put your picture in the magazine, too. So that’s icing on the cupcake, right?

We had great prizes to give away over the summer and these A-Listers won big! You can win big, too, but only if you join the A-List. Sorry, we’re kind of exclusive like that.

Village Fest Grand Prize

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Chamber Summer Social Basket Winner Greg Chamberlain

Boots and Bachelors Auction Ticket Winner Patricia Scovil

Visit bakersfieldmagazine.net for details.

Favorable Forecasts

A

ccording to IHS Global Insight, a national leader in economic forecasting, Kern County was the last county in the state of California to see job loss on account of the recession and we will be the first county to recover thanks, in part, to the stable industries our county boasts (think ag and oil).

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 25

Kern Facts

PINKS All Out The host of the show (right) interviews a semi-finalist

B

akersfield has long been a city affiliated with racing; there’s something primal about the urge to test our motors...and we revel in that urge. Our rich automotive history has put us in the national spotlight on more than one occasion. Most recently, that spotlight included the filming of PINKS All Out, a high-energy racing show aired on the SPEED Network.

“The show is really about grass roots drag racing and while I was doing research into the history of it, more often than not, Famoso and the famous Smokers came up,” explained SPEED Media Relations Manager David Harris. “So Famoso was the perfect place to shoot.”

To capture everything on film, two different crews (a total of 85 people) raced to Bakersfield and set up camp at the track. And there was a lot to capture—almost 12,000 people flooded

PHOTO COURTESY STEPHEN PULLIN

One entrant “gettin’ air”

26 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

the raceway to be a part of this two-day event, including locals and drivers from around the country ready to put their cars to the test. Talk about an economic impact! And four Bakersfield drivers made the top 16! No small feat.

In all, Harris said the camera crew filmed between 80 and 100 hours of adrenaline-inducing, machismo-inspiring footage...which will be edited down to 42 golden minutes of racing glory when aired.

Be sure to get a glimpse of Famoso on screen and see who wins, when season three of PINKS All Out premiers on Thanksgiving Day, on the Speed Channel. Check your channel listings for the time.

Taking

Aim

W

hen Larry Bartlett takes aim, watch out.

After all, it’s not every day you come across a man who can shoot 100 flying targets in a row without breaking a sweat. Or who once hit 986 targets out of 1,000 to beat a world’s record for trap shooting.

But this man, whose experience with guns came from squirrel hunting with his father in Oklahoma, was taken with sport shooting almost instantly.

“I began deer hunting in my 20s and that blossomed into bird hunting,” Bartlett, who moved to Bakersfield in 1957, said. “So I’d practice by putting a spot on the wall and aiming, trying to pull the trigger between heartbeats.”

But it was a friend of Bartlett’s who suggested he visit the Kern County Gun Club. And that’s where this story really begins.

“He said, ‘I’m going out to shoot some skeet. Why don’t you come with me?’ ” Bartlett elaborated.

“That was in 1970 and by the mid’70s, I was highly involved, going to tournaments whenever I got the

Skilled Hands

“Shooting is like a lot of other sports. You have to keep your head down, keep your eye on the target, and watch your shot all the way through.”

–Larry Bartlett

chance. If I wasn’t at an event every weekend, I was agonizing because I didn’t go,” he laughed.

This was the period in time where Bartlett was hitting between 16,000 and 18,000 targets a year in tournaments; when he was running all the trap tournaments for the Kern County Gun Club (which he ultimately did from 1972 to 1986).

The appeal was in the patience and persistence needed to truly be a successful shooter. Those clay targets don’t stand a chance when Bartlett walks on the field.

And whether he’s trap shooting or skeet shooting, he’s aware of the physical and mental demands of such a highly-skilled sport.

“It’s a game of mentally preparing yourself to do the things you’ve done hundreds of times before, but it’s tough to do,” Bartlett said, a smile on his face. “With skeet, you know where the target is coming from every time, but with trap, the machine oscillates so you’re never fully sure—the decision on what you’re going to do is made after the target is in the air.”

That’s why it’s so important for your mechanics to be perfect and for your feet to be in place.

“You need to favor where the target is going and keep your stance open. You can’t be closed off as the target moves. And you must have good concentration before you call for the target. You already have to be thinking about what you’re going to do, but you have to keep your head down.”

Bartlett said that is usually mistake number one.

“Shooting is like a lot of other sports. You have to keep your head down, keep your eye on the target, and watch your shot all the way through, because if you pull your head up, you pull the barrel up, even if only slightly, and that will get your aim off.”

Keep in mind, this isn’t as simple as hitting a bullseye. These are fastmoving targets, so in addition to focus, you’ve got to be able to see where the clay target is moving and anticipate its trajectory. But the impulse is there to not only take a second look before pulling the trigger, which Bartlett said will also throw off your aim, but to jerk the gun if you fall behind the target. A major no-no.

“At the end of every jerk, there’s a stop of the barrel, but the target doesn’t stop moving. So you’ve got to keep your movement smooth, and as soon as you’re lined up with the target, pull the trigger.”

It’s no game of Duck Hunt.

“These tournaments are serious.

You miss one shot and you’re out,” Bartlett added. That’s why he belongs to a shooting social organization called the California Indians and why he got his son involved in shooting at a young age: it’s less about the accolades and more about camaraderie.

That is what’s important to Bartlett now.

Larry bartlett champion trap shooter

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 27

28 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Pete Bozanich, 55 Owner, Insurance Agency Are you a Bakersfield Native?

Yes. I have been in this fast-growing town for 55 years. Although I did live in San Pedro for two years a while back.

Is there a beauty product that you absolutely can’t live without?

Yes, there is. My wife got me hooked on Oil of Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream [Pete referred to it as a “face lotion thing” so we called his wife to get the name].

Does Bakersfield have a style?

Casual all the way! We do the same, if not a better job, than corporate America.

Describe your personal style.

Casual comfortable. I’m not the suit and tie type of guy at all!

How long does it usually take you to get ready in the morning?

I’m quite quick when it comes to getting ready. I’m out the door in about 30 minutes. I can watch two games on TV in the time it takes my wife to get ready!

Is there a celebrity you get your style from?

No. Just me. I’ve always just gone with whatever I think suits me best!

What are you wearing?

The shoes are Sandro Moscoloni’s; pants are Tommy Bahama (silk); belt is Brighton; shirt is Taylor Byrd; coat is Oscar de la Renta; watch is a Rolex submariner; glasses are Oakley.

Does your style change when you are not at work?

Somewhat. I do the t-shirt look a bit more when I’m not at work.

How do you personalize your business look?

I make it a little more casual by getting rid of the tie. And I stick to Tommy Bahamas’ vibe.

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield?

Snead’s. They personalize and tailor everything.

What is your favorite item of clothing?

Shirts! I like embroidered shirts.

I just think that extra detail makes a big difference in the overall style. For a guy, I probably have about 250 too many shirts.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made?

Thinking I was fashionable by wearing angel flight pants and bell bottoms.

I guess I had that Saturday Night Fever thing going on.

Are you a bargain hound?

By no means. When it comes to clothes, I know what I like and price doesn’t matter.

FASHION TIP: Try embroidered shirts for that little “extra” detail What mistakes do you think women make when they dress?

Wearing low rise jeans. They make those lovely curves disappear and show off things that shouldn’t be shown. They just don’t flatter a woman’s body!

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 29

30 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

!

CITIZEN KERN

How he got started: Loving music can get you far in life. Evans opened World Records in 1982 and hasn’t looked back. Over a decade ago, he took his admiration for live music to the next level when he and friend Scott Schwebel let their frustration with past ticket-buying experiences become the catalyst to create a local concert series known as the No Stinkin’ Service Charge Blues Series. Soon, they were booking people like Elvin Bishop and Joe Walsh to perform.

Career highlights: A show earlier this year still sticks out in his mind. While putting on a small concert at the Spotlight Theatre with The Refugees, Evans said technical difficulties prompted this talented female group to perform a capella, and with no mics. To hear Deborah Holland, who worked with Police drummer Stewart Copeland; Wendy Waldman, who wrote music for the likes of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; and Cindy Bullens who worked with Elton John, rely solely on their voices to wow the crowd renewed his passion for live music.

meet

Pat Evans

‘‘

B-TOWN MUSIC MAN

A sweet gig: I’m able to connect to people all day and talk music all day, every day.

His heroes: “I’ve taken cues on how to put on a good show from Tom Petty, Neil Young, and Bruce Springsteen,” he says. “They make a point to mention that they are supported by people that love music, not sponsors and corporations. They don’t follow polls, but follow their heart and musical vision.” Petty once stopped a show to tell fans that despite all the corporate signage around the venue, he was not sponsored by any of them.

‘‘

His favorite part of the industry: What other job do you know of where it’s lucrative to stand around with fellow music lovers and talk shop all day? “I’m able to connect to people all day and talk music all day, every day,” Evans says, smiling. He also gets to meet and befriend some amazing musicians, like his all time favorite: David Mallett, whose songs have been covered by hundreds of artists including Allison Krauss and Emmylou Harris.

photos provided by carl lender (walsh), bret gilliam (mallett), refugees music (the refugees), camtin (petty), bob sanderson (country joe)

Personal Stats Name: Pat Evans Age: 51 Birthplace: Oildale, California Title: Owner, World Records

Founder, B-Town Blues Festival

What he’d still like to accomplish: While this September’s B-Town Blues Fest marked his 101st show, Evans isn’t growing passive about his passion. After putting on fantastic shows separate from the Blues Series with folks like Country Joe McDonald, he was inspired to further develop a parallel series for singer/ songwriters. In addition, Evans hopes to open his own unique venue one day.

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 31

A New Experience in Flying

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32 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

WHEN

With the push of a remote control button we can watch almost anything we want now.

T

oday, with the push of the remote control button, we can select most anything in the world we want to see. But in the early years of television in Bakersfield, it was not all that easy.

The few fortunate owners of TV sets in Bakersfield in 1947 was reminiscent of the owners of the first automobiles: the ride was exciting after all the pitfalls of getting it started and keeping it running.

Problems quickly arose. Bakersfield had no TV stations to transmit a signal at that time. Los Angeles had begun broadcasting KTLA channel 5 in 1947 and everyone thought it could be viewed only in the Los Angeles Basin. It was discovered here by chance! The VHF signal from channel 5 bounced along the Tejon Pass Mountains like radar and if your home was in the right place in Bakersfield, KTLA channel 5 from Los Angeles could be seen on your TV set.

TV owners in La Cresta and other high ground areas could receive channel 5 if they purchased a big, powerful 7- to 10-inch receiver along with a list of expensive accessories needed to capture the “ghost signal” from the mountains including a massive 8-bay antenna towering up to 100 feet above the home, a rotator motor on the antenna to position it perfectly toward the signal, and lastly, two to six signal booster boxes to amplify the ghost signal enough to see a fuzzy picture. Over

TV CAME TO TOWN

By George Gilbert Lynch

©istockphoto.com/shaunl

However, in the early years of television in Bakersfield, it was not all that easy. $1,000 could be spent just to be able to see a snowy channel 5.

My future wife lived in La Cresta at this time and her family’s 7-inch picture tube, Hoffman set, had neighbors gathering nightly in their living room to watch new family entertainment. They were the most popular family on the block...even if most guests brought binoculars to be able to see the little screen.

The expense of installing a TV system was justified in the next year, in 1948, because two more Los Angeles channels began broadcasting.

This prompted hundreds of locals to consider buying a TV set. Some parts of Bakersfield could not receive the ghost signals, so electronics stores would furnish a free test of your property to find out if it was “dead” to the TV signals. They had trucks equipped with an extendable antenna mast that could find the right size of antenna you needed, as well as the height it should be placed. Their slogan was “Try Before You Buy.” The year 1949 saw two more Los Angeles channels added: channel 4, KNBH; and channel 7, KECA. The average picture tube had now grown to 15 inches and the big 8bay antennas were springing up all over town as Roller Derby, Wrestling, Time For Beany, and Hopalong Cassidy movies began to cut down local drive-in theater and dance hall attendance.

We bought our first TV in 1952 from Ward’s Department Store. >>

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 33

It had a tuner that received channels 2 through 13 (the norm at the time) and we could get most Los Angeles channels with our 75-foot, 8-bay antenna. Remote controlled tuners were years down the road at this time but we were so thrilled to have so many channels that it was nothing at all to manually tune the set. Within a year, in August of 1953, KBAK UHF channel 29 came to Bakersfield. In order to receive this new channel, I had to buy two more accessories: a UHF local antenna and a UHF converter box, to add to the half dozen other boxes already on our console’s top. A month later, local VHF channel 10 KERO began broadcasting in town.

Those early TVs used a bunch of vacuum tubes that lit up like a Christmas tree inside the cabinet, putting out a lot of heat and consuming great amounts of electricity (transistors and chips were a few years

Antennas like this dotted Bakersfield.

PHOTOS COURTESY GEORGE GILBERT LYNCH

Television

down the road). The tubes needed constant replacement and TV repairman pickups became as common on our streets as pizza delivery cars are today.

I, like many others, bought TV repair books and did my best to keep the family entertainment center in working order.

Most markets and drug stores had a “doit-yourself tube testing instrument” for the man who wanted to try to fix his own TV. They also had tubes for sale if one of mine tested weak. Many times before a big game was to be telecast, I had to stand in line at the tube-checking machine to try to

In the early days of TV, some stores even included a “do-it-yourself tube testing device” for people who wanted to try to fix theirs. make my set function. Later on, I learned to save all the old tubes from junked-out TV sets for reserves. With spare tubes, I could keep switching tubes until the TV started working. In time, I amassed boxes filled with tubes.

No additional TV stations came to Bakersfield for six years until KGET channel 17 began broadcasting in 1959. Now about this time, thousands of big, tall antennas covered Bakersfield like an aluminum forest, because everyone wanted to receive all the Los Angeles channels as well as local stations. I recall a severe windstorm about this time that bent over or toppled nearly all the big antennas in the county.

34 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Before getting a set, you could test your reception.

But nobody replaced them because the three local channels could be picked up with rabbit ear antennas.

We finally bought our first hi-tech, tubeless, transistorized, color set and I threw away my boxes of spare tubes, condensers, and console top control boxes, lead in wiring, multiple weird antennas, and all my TV repair manuals, but I still have good memories of those pioneering days of the first TV sets.

With today’s hi-tech electronics, it’s cheaper to replace the whole set than to attempt a repair.

Back in the ‘50s, we laughed when someone mentioned paying a fee to watch TV, but in 1966, the first pay-cable company came to town and the rest, as they say, is history. v Copyrighted by George Gilbert Lynch, July 2, 2007

attitude fostered by rebels and underdogs, such as prisoners, bikers and political dissents, etc., for whom open rebellion invited punishment, so it hid its defiance behind a wall of ironic detachment, distancing itself from the source of authority rather than directly confronting it. Cool is an aesthetic of attitude, behavior, comportment, appearance and style, influenced by and a product of the Zeitgeist. Cool is also an attitude widely adopted by artists and intellectuals, who thereby aided its infiltration into popular culture. Because of the varied and changing connotations of cool, as well its subjective nature, the word has no single meaning. It has associations of composure and self-control and often is used as an expression of admiration or approval.

There is currently no single concept of cool. One of the essential characteristics of cool is its mutability— what is considered cool changes over time and varies among cultures and generations. Although some notions of cool can be traced back to Aristotle, it is not confined to one particular ethnic group or gender. The sum and substance of cool is a self-conscious aplomb in overall behavior, which entails a set of specific behavioral characteristics that is firmly anchored in symbology, a set of discernible bodily movements, postures, facial expressions and voice modulations that are acquired and take on strategic social value within the peer context.

Cool has been used to describe a general state of well-being, a transcendent, internal peace and serenity.

It can also refer to an absence of conflict, a state of harmony and balance as in, “The land is cool,” or as in a “cool Cool was once an

[spiritual] heart.” Such meanings, according to Thompson, are African in origin. Cool is related in this sense to both social control and transcendental balance. Cool can similarly be used to describe

composure and absence of excitement in a person as expressed

in the idiom to keep your cool. In a related way, the word can be used to express agreement or assent, as in the phrase I am cool with

THE

that. Sought by product marketing firms, idealized by teenagers, a shield against racial oppression or political persecution and source of constant cultural innovation, cool has become a global phenomenon that has spread to every corner of the earth. similarly be used to describe

composure and absence of excitement in a person as expressed in the idiom to keep your cool. In a related way,

the word can be used to express agreement or assent, as in the phrase I am cool with that. Cool is also an attitude widely adopted by

artistsWhile slang terms are usually comprised of short-lived coinages and figures of speech, cool is an especially ubiquitous slang word, most notably among young people. As well as being understood throughout the English-speaking world, the word has even entered the vocabulary of several languages other than English. In this sense, cool is used as a general

other interjection, which can have a range of related adjectival...in meanings.

ISSUE positive epithet or

words

Cool is...well, Cool.

Sure, there are lots of cool things about Bakersfield, but this list has a twist.

These are the hippest, grooviest, and funkiest things about our city you’ve probably never heard of.

So put on your darkest shades and prepare to be enlightened.

Only then are you cool enough to cruise the following pages...

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 35

The Kern County Pirates Guild: Shiver Me Timbers!

We were placing bets in the office: how many people in Bakersfield knew that we had our very own Pirates Guild. So far, barely anyone in the office knew so it’s a safe bet that you didn’t either which is why the Kern County Pirates Guild made our Cool List. But don’t confuse these scurvy dogs with the Hollywood-inspired poseurs of cinema; these devoted men and women are all about balancing historical accuracy with fun. Founded by Kenny (Mr. Kenneth) Mount back in 2004, this rag-tag bunch of mariner misfits has grown to include their very own sail crew: Rack and Ruin. And these guys do it all, from hand-sewing their own period-accurate garments to forging boot buckles.

Focusing on the “Golden Age” of piracy (1675 to 1725) Mr. Kenneth and crew aim their cannons at dispelling the myths of piracy as well as educating local school kids on their historical value. But educating the public is only part of the ill-gotten booty: The Kern County Pirates Guild annually volunteers with the Safe Halloween event held at the Kern County Museum. So don’t let the Jolly Roger fool ye—thar be bucaneers o’ good fortune in Bakersfield!

Bo-Bo the Millennium Clown: Coulrophobes Beware!

aarggh

fun

Since the tender age of 15, Bo-Bo the Millennium Clown has been entertaining Bakersfield audiences with his unique brand of kid-friendly entertainment without resorting to scaring the be-jeezus outta the random Stephen King fan.

If you’ve lived in Bakersfield for any amount of time, you’re certain to have seen Bo-Bo perform for children’s birthday PHOTO COURTESY OF BO-BO, THE MILLENNIUM CLOWN parties and various charitable events. He infuses every gathering with a little magic, a lot of fun, and a certain sense of innocence which guarantees him, and his sequined pant-suit, a spot on our list.

good times

Rally Pilot’s Scooter Club: Born To Be Wild

We’re betting you didn’t know that Harley Davidson made a scooter, didjya?

Pretty much since combustion engines overtook horse-drawn carriages, scooters have discreetly transported people across the globe.

Here in Bakersfield, a small but dedicated group of scooter enthusiasts is blazing a trail across the state and having a blast doing it. Participating in organized rides such as San Luis Obispo’s Rides of March and Santa Monica’s Endless Summer is but one aspect of the Pilot’s social agenda; being part of the Bakersfield Toy Run right next to the big dogs is what puts Rally Pilot’s Scooter Club on the map (and this list!).

Murray Family Farms: All It’s Missing is a Roller Coaster

varoom PHOTO COURTESY OF RALLY SCOOTER CLUB

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MURRAY FAMILY FARMS

Because growing some of the best cherries in California wasn’t enough, Steve and Vickie Murray pursued grander ambitions: providing the urban-dwelling residents of Bakersfield with a true-to-life working farm atmosphere and plenty to keep the whole family busy and entertained. More than a farmers’ market or a kids’ petting zoo, Murray Family Farms is a San Joaquin retreat. Offering everything from hay rides (which can also pick you up and drop you off in the fields to pick your own farm-fresh produce), relaxing picnic spaces, and this October ‘s first-ever 10-acre corn maze, Murray Family Farms can put everyone back in touch with their agricultural roots (pun definitely intended).

36 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

exotic taste

Asia Market: Variety is the Spice of Life!

Owned by Mike Yang and his lovely wife, Mindy, the Asia Market (now on White Lane) has become a staple for the local Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Indonesian, and Burmese culinary enthusiast. Aisle upon meticulously stocked aisle of fresh and pre-packaged foods beckon the shopper to linger, explore, and experiment.

One of the most delightful aspects of this Cool Conglomeration of Shopping is that Mike will walk you through each aisle helping to pick out items to complete or complement any meal you could possibly dream up. Need some fresh catfish or sashimi-grade salmon?

They got it. In fact, you could pretty much start anew with bare cupboards and an empty kitchen and, before you know it, have a sumptuous Asian meal in no time, replete with service ware and decorative items to complete the over-all ambiance.

Priest Morrison: Sign of Things to

whoa!

George the Giant: Large and In-Charge

Come!

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and aga in from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can find Priest dancing, smiling, and waving you on to whatever destination you hap pen to be driving toward.

And while you may not even remember the national pizza chain he’s shakin’ his thang for, you will certainly remember how entertaining he was as you drove by. But the cool story behind the gyr ating sign is that Priest is sweating his bum off to suppor t a daughter and help put his girlfriend through school.

Most inspiring of all is the gregarious attitude and plea sing disposition he brings to each step despite the rare sing le-finger salute he might receive. Because we know it’s not what you do for a living but how well you do it tha t truly counts.

Fluxar Studios, Inc.: Multi-media Gone Green

dance

To look at them you’d think garage band. To see their work you’d think high-end design firm (with an irreverent edge). It may be hard to reconcile the face(s) behind the extraordinary work but once you do you’ll see why Fluxar Studios, Inc. has earned a spot on the Cool List, 2009. From print, to web, logo design to flash-animation, Fluxar has put out some of the most recognizable images known in Bakersfield.

PHOTO COURTESY OF fluxar studios, inc.

But a good part of their business-savvy stems from a relentless commitment to happier employees (their break room is a swank game loft) and a healthier Bakersfield environment. By getting their green on, Fluxar has gone where few companies have the courage to go: unblinkingly into the future of the ecofriendly business.

eco time

Not because he holds several world records for his somewhat peculiar physical talents. Not because he’s a whopping 7’3” tall. And certainly not because he’s a self-professed freak.

George Baird McArthur holds a special place on our list of the Coolest People We Know because he actually pulled over on the freeway to give us an interview so he wouldn’t drive while talking on a cell phone all illegal-like.

OK, maybe it takes a little more than that. But this 40-year-old altitudinous specimen of theatrical fortitude is the complete package: humble, grounded, family-oriented, and funny, without a single aversion to laughing at himself. And talk about devoted to his Bakersfield roots! He may travel from time to time, appear in the occasional movie, late-night talk show, or America’s Got Talent, but this performer does his best work right here in Bakersfield, fire-breathing and all.

PHOTOs COURTESY OF george mcarthur

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 37

Moo Creamery: Bacon Love Ice Cream!

No, you didn’t read that wrong and no we didn’t print it wrong either.

Bakersfield has one of the hottest new creameries on the West Coast which is why Moo Creamery on Truxtun Avenue makes its first appearance on our list as one of the coolest places to chill. The brain-child of Jessica Pounds and Richard Yoshimura, Moo Creamery offers an eclectic amalgamation of a ‘50s-inspired soda fountain, local sports bar, and gourmet restaurant all under one roof. The simplicity in its décor belies the sheer perspicaciousness of its menu and atmosphere.

Where else could one find a classic Caesar Salad on the same pages as Beer-Battered Pickles and a Breakfast Burrito? Why is it this seemingly random equation of ingredients works? The same reason, we suppose, that led Moo Creamery to offer Bacon Love ice cream. And after you taste it you’ll just smile, nod, and ask, “Why ask why?”

in tune Front Porch Music: A View From the Porch Looking In

Front Porch Music opened its doors to local music enthusiasts way back in 1978. Back then there was an actual front porch and a drive to perpetuate what was already a thriving music scene in Bakersfield. Founded by John Arthur “Artie” Niesen, Front Porch Music maintains a unique if seemingly over-stocked aesthetic all its own. With its very own collection of Bakersfield-based Mosrite guitars (played by such musical legends as Joe Maphis and the B-52s) to back-rooms filled to the rafters with instrumental accoutrements, drum kits, and amps the size of small vehicles, this shop has earned its title as the Coolest Place to Shop-Then-Rock in Bakersfield.

frosty Triva Night at Sandrini’s: In “Pursuit” of Local Know ledge

If you don’t already know, Sandrini’s has been taking back Tuesday and Sunday nights with a trivia game that’ll have you scratc hing your noggin’. Bakersfield native Dave Rezac painstakingly puts together a trivia contest for anyone who thinks they have the cerebral stones to hang with the know -it-alls. Divided into two rounds of 24 questions, Dave writes each game individually, taking inspiration from his celestial collection of knowledge. Buying into a game for the night might run you $8 but the three top-placing teams can win a healthy dose of scratch or brew while the last-placed team is acknowledged with dollar-store booby prizes. Coolest part of all?

None of those darn pizza-shaped pieces to worry about.

trivia

PHOTO COURTESY of dave rezac

Stars Dinner Theater: “At last, DRAMA!”

Series: House Concert Sounds eld More Bakersfi of “House

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live

38 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Dinner theater has always gotten kind of a bum rap. Relegated to retirement villages and crumbling old buildings; the butt of farce in which has-been actor Jeffery Anderson (played by Kevin Kline in 1991’s Soapdish) has resorted to playing a rather inebriated Willy Loman in an Opa-Locka Dinner Theater production of Death of a Salesman. But not so for the talented cast and crew of Stars Dinner Theater.

Not by a long shot!

Flush with local talent, this handsomely renovated bank plays host to raucous comedies and spirited musicals all accompanied by PHOTO COURTESY of peter beckman a truly superb menu.

After you’re done reading this you will be just in time to get your tickets for Kesselrings’ Arsenic and Old Lace which is why Stars Dinner Theater is on our Curtains Up Cool list!

drama

Five & Dime Antique Mall: The More Things Change...

blog ess Nick Belardes: Blogging His Way to Succ

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grog!

The Five & Dime Antique Mall located in the old Decorevival Woolworth’s building is packed with three floors of collectibles, antiques, and memories. You can almost hear shoppers commenting nostalgically to themselves, “I remember this when I was a kid.”

With literally dozens of independent vendors, the variety is practically endless; from Cambridge stemware to delicately hand-stitched textiles, you would be hard-pressed to leave without cradling a new-found (or re-discovered) treasure in your arms. Adding to the ambiance is the old Tin Lizzie from 1926 chauffeured by a Knotts Berry Farm refugee. Much could be said about how the building has been able to retain its distinctive character and charm over the past 60 years, so we give the Five & Dime our Cool Stamp of Approval.

FLICS: Bakersfield’s International Cinema Society

Whether you have an interest in provocative directors like Wayne Wang PHOTO COURTESY of flics (Joy Luck Club) or superlative actors like Assi Dayan (Things Behind the Sun) your go-to place of choice is FLICS, Bakersfield’s only Indie/International film screening organization. And for sheer entertainment value, we had to add this to our list of the “Oh-So-Cool.” For only $5 you can see a critically-acclaimed movie in the historic Fox Theater without having to drive all the way to L.A. Or, for $50 you can get a pass for up to 17 movies per season. And if you’re just not sure you can check out a free show in June. One not-so-widely-known aspect of FLICS is their philanthropic interests which include donating surplus revenue to important local causes, giving real meaning to paying it forward. Perhaps best of all, the screenings are shown at one of Bakersfield’s best entertainment venues, the lovingly restored Fox Theater. Award-winning movies in the Arts District of Bakersfield couldn’t be more entertaining, or more cool.

blub

Lengthwise Brewery: Great Things Happen When Inspiration Silences Excuses If you like beer (and who doesn’t like a good, ice-cold barley-pop now and again?) then you’ve no doubt had one of Lengthwise Brewery’s signature beers. Established in 1998, Lengthwise has grown and expanded, serving the best brews in the area—which is why their passionturned-action makes our list of All Things Cool. But it’s not just the beer that keeps the regulars coming back. Their homemade sodas, blended spices, and even fresh breads make Lengthwise more than just your friendly neighborhood brewery. Maybe it’s the eco-friendly refillable Growler with their ever-popular Triple Hop Red Ale that keeps the party jumpin’. Or the signature “Stinky Fries”...because sometimes you just don’t want to share. Either (or both) are reasons enough for us to tip our glasses to Lengthwise Brewery in a Cool “clink” of gratitude.

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 39

bling

Don Lucas: California Jewelin’

skill

The terms “contemporary” and “south-western” aren’t generally used when describing the same thing, much less jewelry. But Don Lucas has found a way to artistically blend the two, thusly winning a spot on our list of Cool. Equal parts artist and craftsman, gemologist and silversmith, Mr. Lucas continually designs and hand-makes his eye-catching pieces which can be purchased from California to New York and many places in between. Of course, it helps to have a megastar like Sarah Michelle Gellar touting your creations on the red carpet, but we aren’t prone to name-dropping...much. The coolest thing about Don Lucas Jewelry is how close it is! Like, in our own back yard!

Traditional Rod & Kulture Illustrated and Authentic Zombie HotRod Wear: Night of the Living Cool

Boyd Coddington and Alberto Vargas would be proud!

Scott “Zombie” Stevens has already made a name for himself in the burgeoning hot-rod subculture. What brings him to our list of Cool Dudes is that this self-taught graphic illustrator made it big on his own talent and his own steam. As a publisher/contributing artist/photographer of Traditional Rod & Kulture Illustrated and visionary founder of Authentic Zombie HotRod Wear, this 37-year-old Bakersfield native, entrepreneur, and father of three is the man’s man of the pre1965 “kustom kommunity.”

With over 80,000 in quarterly distributions and fans of his graphic artwork the world over there is little doubt that success favors the skilled.

fame

World Famous Kelly Lounge: Best Performances Money Can’t Buy

What do Michelle Branch, Buck Cherry, and Duncan Sheik all have in common?

They, along with about 91 other talented acts and performers have all appeared on The Fox Theater Stage at the World Famous Kelly Lounge, downtown Bakersfield.

Getting to see, meet, and even chat with a musical performer before they explode into untouchable stardom is what puts the Kelly Lounge on our list of Things That Make Living in Bakersfield So Darn Cool! Started over 8 years ago, The Kelly Lounge has consistently delivered world-class music to music-loving Bakersfield audiences who appreciate their music up-close and personal. Keeping the audiences small ensures that everyone enjoys an intimate performance, a great view, and superb sound.

But keeping the tickets free—now that’s priceless.

ld: Burning Fat, Not Oil! Ride Fast Crew of Bakersfie “fixed” but there is a

y be The cogs on their bikes ma se irreverent athletes of the for dity flui of definite sense ing rtis spo hness of street bik the street. Combining the ty par g vin urous sense of a mo with the fun and advent ’ vin Mo our on up organized gro is what puts this loosely two se the g nin eve ay Thursd Cool List. Meeting every ha created a community wit e hav s dito ban ed eel wh to s nes are aw bicycle safety common mission: bring s list cyc th Wi it. ng doi at time Bakersfield and have a gre place a is re the g) din (kid 111 ranging in ages from 11 to side. to take a ride on the wild for everyone who wants isn’t t jus et stre the n aling dow But sometimes simply ped e tum cos ts, hun ger ven like sca enough: themed events . ng hts keep the wheels spinni races, and even movie nig

spokes

Hectic Films: Do I Need a Vaccine For This Viral Film?

say cheese!

40 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

A post-apocalyptic America is over-run by government-spawned, flesh-eating zombies...right here in Bakersfield! Making their first appearance on our list of Cool, Hectic Films (founded by life-long friends and creative cohorts Jason Sanders and Rickey Bird) has only one goal in mind: bring Hollywood to Bakersfield in a big way.

And why not? Every other major metropolis in California has had its own zombie mob, from San Francisco to San Diego, why not Bakersfield? So we think it’s pretty cool that a couple of local boys will be premiering Phase Two at The Fox Theater this December. Just remember that zombies think brains are delicious, so wear a hat.

Jerry’s Pizza: They Serve Pizza?

Jerry Baranowski is a really smart fella. So how does a guy with a degree in political science from the University of Warsaw end up running one of Bakersfield’s most popular and longest-running music venues/eateries? Poland-born Jerry Baranowski saw a need and filled it. Not that Bakersfield needed another pizza parlor at the time (although this one is certainly among the best) but because there weren’t enough local music venues to keep the “kids” entertained. Now, you might not have heard of (much less listened to) Vogue in the Movement or Millionaires but your kids probably have...not to mention the scores of local bands trying to make their mark on Bakersfield’s music scene. Adding to the live performances is Jerry’s own Klub Plush (Saturday’s DJ-driven electronic dance party) where from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. the music is pumping and the dance floor is a-jumping. So after 17 years of being a music hot-spot, Jerry’s Pizza makes our list of Coolest Basements in Bakersfield.

Bakersfield Country Music Museum: Not Your Average Rhinestone Cowboys

We here in Bakersfield are lucky to have our fair share of museums. But what makes the Bakersfield Country Music Museum so special is that it commemorates the founding fathers of the music that made Bakersfield famous the world over—that famous Bakersfield Sound.

Displaying the priceless memorabilia from artists such as Billy Mize and Lawton Jiles, musicians as well as history buffs can get their fill of Bako-music trivia. Especially unique is that the museum, located in the old Chamber of Commerce Building on the Kern County Museum grounds, continues to bring the classic Bakersfield Sound to Kern audiences through intimate concerts played by local legends like Rockwell’s Blackboard Playboys. Paying homage to the past as well as sending up props to the present and future—that’s what makes BCMM Banjo-Pickin’ Cool!

musician’s friend

roots

FattKatt and the VonZippers: Leaders of Their Own Pack

It may have taken almost 20 years to make it to the same stage as the late, great Buck Owens, but the blood, sweat, and riffs were worth it. Now the longest-running, non-country act to perform at the world-famous Crystal Palace, FattKatt and the VonZippers (currently comprised of FattKatt, Billy-Ray, Hot-Rod, and Styx) are keeping it real, keeping it local, and keeping the Bakersfield Sound alive and well. Taking part of their inspiration from early rockabilly greats like Gene Vincent and Bakersfield Sound originators like Red Simpson, FattKatt and the VonZippers are turning on audiences young and notso-young alike to the wholesome sounds of our very own Nashville West. But they aren’t just your average cover band. These groovy dudes put out a CD of 15 original songs that capture the very spirit of a genre they so ably embody.

On our Cool-O-Meter these cats rock!

grease

take me!

PHOTO COURTESY of fattkatt

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 41

Greek Food Festival: My Big, Fat Plate of Slouvaki

playtime

PHOTO COURTESY of nor

North of the River: Your Compass to Fun

If you live anywhere in the 215 square miles that make up North of the River, then you’ve probably taken advantage of the long list of activities and acres of fun, open spaces. And even if you don’t live within the NOR boundaries, there is a good chance that you’ve partaken in their numerous out-of-doors activities like rock climbing or Frisbee golf. Wanna learn ballroom dancing? They offer that, too. From kids to seniors, NOR has something for everyone which makes NOR a truly unique, not to mention Cool attribute of Bakersfield.

For 37 years (and counting) the Greek Food Festival of Bakersfield has fed, entertained, fed, educated, and (did we mention?) fed local residents heaping plates of delectable Greek food with generous helpings of genuine Greek hospitality. And while the food alone surely would’ve guaranteed the Greek Food Festival a place on our Cool List there is so much more to be enjoyed: spritely young dancers in authentic Greek costumes skipping a syrtos to live music and an old world-inspired marketplace makes this two-day event worthy of writing about. Best of all, special consideration is given to the elderly patrons of this much-anticipated “fest” making it fun and enjoyable for all who attend, Greek or otherwise. Opa!

Derby Revolution of Bakersfield: What’s Your Roller Derby Name?

As it turns out, ours is Dead-Line...but we digress. If extreme sports on skates and fearinspiring names gets you all excited then you’ll understand why Derby Revolution of Bakersfield jams, blocks, and pivots their way onto our list of Coolness. But don’t be hypnotized by the frenzy of flat-track derby drag racing; behind the campy nomenclature and short-shorts these athletic ladies are all business—think linebackers on wheels of fury. Since 2008, these fierce females have been elbowing their way from counter-culture obscurity to out-and-out local manic popularity. Just check out a game and you’ll know why only the toughest chicks can hang with Derby Revolution.

not so nice

opa!

42 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

nice The Petroleum Club of Bakersfield: A Room With a View

One unfortunate aspect of the urban landscape that has evolved from the swampy grass-lands of Bakersfield’s distant past is that there aren’t a lot of scenic views to be had. All but cornering the market on this realestate rarity is the Petroleum Club located on the 12th floor of Stockdale Towers. In particular, the Sky Club aptly deserves its name and a place on our list of Cool Places to Drop a Penny from. Actually, we are not encouraging the tossing of a Lincoln from 12 floors up (seriously), but we are encouraging everyone to enjoy the sweeping, panoramic view while sipping expertly-crafted libations from the bar and some of the finest cuisine available at roughly 156 feet off the ground.

Of course, we’ve only begun to scratch the proverbial surface of all that could potentially be considered “cool” in Bakersfield. While bragging rights are disbursed and egos are ever-soslightly inflated, debate will surely rage on for quite a while about our current inductees. But we want you to know that we are listening and we are planning ahead: do you know someone, something, or somewhere that is completely unique to Bakersfield that just makes your jaw drop? Tell us! If you thought something or someone should have made this list, check us out online for extra über-cool things to know about. While you’re at it, send your suggestions to Cool@Bakersfieldmagazine.net.

We’d love to know what you think!

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MILL CREEK

LINEAR PARK It started with a vision; a project that would take time, money, effort, community support, and a whole lot of gumption. It wouldn’t be easy, but the reward would be great.

2009

Photo by Gilbert C. Vega

Corporate relocation

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 43

MILL creek

w

hen Mill Creek Linear Park Project was finished, Bakersfield would have a burgeoning, revitalized section of town for people to enjoy in both recreation and business.

But no one could have foreseen just how big this endeavor would become back in 2000...

Donna Kunz

Economic Development Director, City of Bakersfield

bert

Photo

Gil by

C. Vega

On a recent sunny afternoon, Donna Kunz, the Economic Development Director for the City of Bakersfield, is all business. And rightly so... there’s much to discuss. The topic at hand is the development and subsequent economical impact of an expansive redevelopment project known as the Mill Creek Linear Park Project.

What was once just a simple plan to clean up Central Park has become a multifaceted, multiphase, multi-million dollar undertaking to create an area of town where people will live, visit, and thrive.

Back in 2000, concerned citizens and city officials were looking to turn the park around. In so many words, they wanted to give it a bit of a face lift.

“The area was suffering,” Kunz explained. It was a sore spot for the city.

“Families were avoiding it.

So as part of our goal to ensure the heart of downtown was never lost, fixing up the park became one of the points we wanted to address.”

As Kunz explained, the only other project in the area under development at the time was a senior housing project, which was unrelated. But in a lucky turn of events, almost eight acres of land became available from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, which the Economic and Community Development Department happily purchased (which went on to become Parkview Cottages) But while the land offered many opportunities, the question was posed: what will most benefit this area with the Kern Island Canal running through it? Would additional quality housing be the ticket? What about new commercial buildings? Then the city got an idea: could these ideas be linked?

As the scope of the project increased, so did the necessary budget and space.

The following years would see the city applying for, and

What’s In A Name?

Firstly, where did Mill Creek even come from?

Did the name come from a late-night brain storming session?

A moment of kismet?

There is a very unique, and historical, reason for this burgeoning area being named as such.

If you’ve ever visited Hill House on Truxtun Avenue, you may have noticed a historical marker in the parking lot. On that site, in 1871, Horatio P. Livermore and William Muehe built the Kern River Flour Mills. At the time, they were centered on the southern end of the Kern Island Canal.

Throughout the 1870s and 1880s, interest in the property 44 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

changed hands until 1890, when the Kern County Land Company became the owner.

While flour production ceased in 1923, the mills continued to process and store grain until the 1952 earthquake.

“David Lyman came up with the name after discovering this marker,” Kunz said of one of the project’s principal planners. The rest is history. The name Mill Creek just fit perfectly with the entire scope of the project, from both the setting to the details of this development.

The city even hopes to one day construct a replica mill on-site to bridge the gap between Bakersfield’s history and its future as it redevelops the Kern Island Canal into Mill Creek Linear Park.

Photo by Gilbert C. Vega

Enjoy the peace and tranquility at Mill Creek’s covered bridge.

occasionally receiving, state bonds, grants, and loans. Part of those funds were aimed at not just visualizing this project, but making it an actuality; bringing more urban housing to that part of town as well as more business. Because as Bakersfield knows, you can’t get one without the other.

Ultimately it was determined that Central Park and the area up and down the Kern Island Canal should be fixed up simultaneously. The plan was to revitalize the entire area surrounding the canal that was so often overlooked.

“This was the largest redevelopment project for downtown that our city has ever done.”

But this sort of thing takes time. Dollars have to be counted, buildings have to be designed, and there needs to be interest. So where to start?

up their respective areas just fine while abandoned industrial plots craved attention.

“We knew we wanted to utilize the entire area,” Kunz mused. “And we also knew it was critical to have the proper recreational amenities in the area. To do that, we would have to get rid of the old industrial plots.” The stigma needed to be removed.

If this project was to be a total success, these businesses needed to be on board and the land in between needed to be reclaimed. As the rough con-

cepts were further developed, businesses surrounding the canal saw the potential for the Mill Creek Linear Park Project to create a unified, cohesive part of downtown that, once completed, would be a major bragging point for our city.

But these plans didn’t come together overnight.

Redevelopment is not a fast business. However, the Mill Creek Linear Park Project has only taken 10 years to get from concept to construction. Much of that success is because of the monetary opportunities the city sought and successfully has been awarded. Originally, Mill Creek was thought to be a 20-year project.

This wasn’t just landscaping the medians or planting trees in the park, it was a full-scale redevelopment.

It would have a cost, but it would have a payoff. >>

What once was just a canal in a dirt ditch is now a beautiful creek linking housing, commercial, entertainment, and recreational venues.

Corporate relocation

The Space Between

The 1.5 miles of canal-front property is not vacant, however, as various businesses still maintained a well-defined presence. Mainstays were holding

2009

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 45

MILL creek Revitalization and Beauty in Downtown Bakersfield: The Birth of Mill Creek

By Alan Tandy, City Manager Mill Creek is unlike any other amenity in Bakersfield.

What once was a fast moving canal in a dirt ditch surrounded by dilapidated cyclone fencing is now a lined, natural-looking creek meandering through

that includes Central Park has been completed with the placement of three million pounds of boulders from the Kern River during a year and a half of construction.

You may have seen the construction work and the streets that were closed for long stretches of time. What was less visible was the coordination of the work that had to be

Listen to tranquil sounds of rushing water as you wander.

downtown Bakersfield, which will soon link housing, commercial, entertainment, and recreational venues with a safe and healthy path.

This exciting project has brought renewed attention back into the urban core by provid-

How about a leisurely stroll along this perfect path?

46 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

ing a beautiful park setting with much-needed recreational opportunities in downtown Bakersfield. Thanks go to numerous private contractors and many city departments working together to create the first phase. When completed, Mill Creek will be a 1.5 mile linear park that will transform the downtown area. The phase

completed within a very short window, as the canal is closed only two weeks each year for regular maintenance. It was within those two-week windows that critical work on the canal had to occur. We did not want to create interruptions to

Photo by Gilbert C. Vega

the agricultural users who rely on the water for their crops.

At the north end of Mill Creek, the new Village Park senior apartments have recently opened, adjacent to the Park Place senior apartments. Residents of both can now use the path and amenities in a secure and enjoyable setting.

Next door, the Park View

Alan Tandy

Bakersfield City Manager Cottages are nearing completion. Families in this urban in-fill development find themselves looking out on Bakersfield’s newest park and water feature. A few blocks south, residents of an older downtown residential area are now within walking distance of Mill Creek.

Soon, two new additional senior housing projects will be under way, bringing an additional 123 housing units to the area. At the south end of Mill Creek, three separate housing developments will soon break ground, providing 163 new housing units. All of this new housing, both for sale and for rent, takes advantage of compact building designs with multi-story units.

In such tight economic times as those we face now, how was the City of Bakersfield able to complete the first phases of Mill Creek? Because Mill Creek is located in two redevelopment areas, some redevelopment monies were used.

We also were fortunate to have secured $10 million from the State of California Infrastructure Bank and additional

$10.8 million in state funds from Proposition 1C to help pay for future phases of Mill Creek.

Nearby, work will soon begin on the Q Street Streetscape project, bringing additional landscaping and street improvements between 24th Street and Truxtun Avenue. This $5.9 million project is in the final design stage with completion expected

by November 2010.

Both the Mill Creek improvements and those along Q Street will upgrade the larger area’s appearance and attract additional businesses, creating an expanded tax base.

The investment of public funds for Mill Creek has already spurred additional develop- >>

Three million pounds of boulders from the Kern River were used in this ambitious project.

2009

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 47

MILL creek Creek View Villas will offer waterside ambiance.

ment in the adjacent area.

Maya Cinemas opened its 16 screen theater complex in July.

Grading has begun on a mixeduse commercial and residential complex adjacent to Mill Creek. Across from that project, the iconic Mexicali Restaurant soon will begin making improvements to create outside dining along the waterfront and attractive improvements for pedestrians walking alongside.

Not only can Mill Creek be enjoyed by Bakersfield residents, it also is a point of pride to show off to our many visitors who attend numerous conventions and meetings here each year.

The Face of Redevelopment

Once the finances were in order, and the logistics were ironed out, the project shined as a tes-

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tament to the ingenuity of the Economic and Community Development Department and the perseverance of a community of like-minded business owners.

So it should come as no surprise that many businesses were jumping on board the Mill Creek train from the very beginning, seeing it as an opportunity.

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone from Bakersfield who hadn’t heard of Mexicali.

The historic restaurant has been dishing out traditional Mexican food since the 1930s, and they’ve been at their 18th Street location for over 50 years. It just so happens the back of Mexicali restaurant faces the Kern Island Canal.

As soon as the Mill Creek Linear Park Project was a go, Mexicali was willing to help.

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48 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

founders and original owners), it was the perfect excuse to redesign the facade of the restaurant. Taking advantage of the improvements the canal will be seeing, Mexicali, with the help of manager Crews, plans to accentuate the rear of the restaurant, expanding the dining area outside, where diners will have a wonderful view of the landscaped creek.

“Any improvements to the

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downtown area will affect each and every business,” Crews said. “People will come to see the amenities, and this will bring back some life to what was once an underused part of town.”

Mexicali was contacted almost seven years ago regarding the plans for the Mill Creek Linear Park Project.

“We saw it as an opportunity, absolutely,” Crews said. “We began putting money away and

Spectacular night view of Commercial Plaza

planning the improvements.”

Once construction is complete, people walking along the path will no longer see a stucco wall but rather a Mexican-inspired wrought-iron fence with an open vista. Additionally a facade wall will cover the infrastructure of the building and give it more character.

“There will be some outside seating off the current lounge, where people can view the creek,” Crews elaborated.

That construction will begin by the end of this year. And Crews couldn’t be more excited to see the work completed.

“Anything to get people out of their houses and into the community is a good thing,” he said of the changes.

renderings courtesy Southwest Consulting

Spectacular night view of 19th Street Commercial Plaza.

Moving In

And for those businesses looking to relocate, the area is full of possibilities. Who wouldn’t want their business nestled by a waterway, where a walking and biking path will be laid out; where public art,

street furniture, and ornate lighting fixtures will decorate the route; and where a new pedestrian plaza will be created at 17th and R streets.

And perhaps most importantly, where new housing will be drawing retirees, young >>

Who wouldn’t want a business near spectacular, well-lit walkways, a big river, and new retail plaza?

2009

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MILL creek professionals, and families alike.

That influx is what Kunz is looking forward to. “We have already secured three developers to help build these housing complexes, which will cater to different income levels, but will be very dense in location.” Built along South Mill Creek, the housing units will vary in style, but the utilization of space will be ground-breaking. “We’re re-

Let’s Go To The Maya

Since the Kern Island Canal winds south to California Avenue, Bakersfield will benefit from cornerstone businesses setting up shop all around the canal. So although Central Park was the initial focus, many existing projects have fallen under the umbrella of the proposed Mill Creek Project. One of those projects was Maya Cinemas, which officially opened in August 2009.

Earlier this year, drivers had a hard time missing the construction at the intersection of California Avenue and P Street, where the 16-screen theater resides. The construction of the cinema had actually been in talks since 2002, when Kunz says negotiations began with Maya Cinemas board members.

Like we said, redevelopment takes time. But doing things right will benefit us all and the attraction of a movie house downtown will be bringing more traffic to the previously industrial area. It’s all still about location, location, location, right? Well Maya Cinemas saw the potential in this area.

Frank Haffar, Maya Cinemas’ president said, “We saw Bakersfield as the best city to expand. The location would be close to downtown and could utilize the existing businesses and grow with the community. ” Haffar explained that Maya Cinemas will benefit from the locale immensely, being close to McMurtrey Aquatics Center, The Marriott Hotel, and various government buildings. Their goal was to complement the businesses already there, as well as encourage future development.

And they have done just that: opening up opportunities for more business in that area of town.

Maya Cinemas will be the base for additional in-line retail in the area, which is being touted as the “entertainment/hospitality district.” As more investors come in, the area will become prosperous and, ultimately, the city will benefit.

The theater will draw residents who will stay to experience the amenities that Mill Creek can offer. Additionally, folks who are already downtown to stay, dine, shop, or simply go for an evening stroll can have the opportunity to take in a movie at this opulent new cineplex.

Maya Cinemas is happy their second location is based right here in Bakersfield and when construction gets underway for both the housing and retail complexes, the city’s feelings will be mutual.

50 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

5 out of 5 ducks agree: The water’s perfect!

ally setting a statement [with the layout]. It is a model sustainable project.” Because while many cities grow out, the unique spacial design along the canal will allow growth to be both inward and upward.

It was a big undertaking, but an exciting one, said Darnell Haynes, a principal planner for the Economic and Community Development Department and project manager for South Mill Creek.

“Housing is critical to supporting the business activities,” Haynes explained. “And these developments are all a part of our plan to house urban Bakersfield. We want to bring more rooftops to downtown.”

That means Mill Creek Courtyard, Creek View Villas, and the other housing developments will only add to the prosperity this area of downtown will be seeing when construction begins later this year.

It might seem easy, but as Haynes explained, the city had to create new streets, mainly lo-

cated on 14th between R and S streets.

“We want to see people come out from behind the concrete walls of subdivisions.”

Extensive planning was done by not only a council of citizens, but by stakeholders and architects on exactly how they could make these developments work.

“It was important for the downtown economy that we modify what used to be an agricultural canal to a urban creek next to amenities that would bring people downtown and keep them there. Naturally, the next step was housing.”

The Creek View Villas, for example, will encompass 36 upscale condominiums that face westward toward the revitalized canal. And the Mill Creek Courtyard will be a 57-unit apartment complex.

“People want to live where they work,” Haynes explained.

And they want to live where they play. So with the addition of Maya Cinemas and the burgeoning retail complexes, it’s not hard to see that these housing units will be sought-after.

Darnell Haynes

Construction on Village Park Senior Apartments, a housing complex near Central Park, was completed earlier this year. By the time the doors opened, there was already a waiting list of residents. And with the attractions in the surrounding area, the benefits have been great for both

Sister City Gardens like the ones soon to come alive in Bakersfield.

Alive is an apt description of this wonderful project. It will honor Bakersfield’s friendship with cities throughout the world: their culture, their customs, and their history.

The City of Bakersfield’s recent success in securing a large state grant for Mill

sister city renderings by parsons

tenants and visitors. While Central Park has become a hot spot for weddings, and the Mill Creek Bridge a perfect photo op, Bakersfield residents have been seeking the use of the adjacent Community House facility within Central Park for receptions as well.

And these kinds of mutually beneficial relationships are just the beginning.

Mayor Harvey Hall

The floral lattice will evoke the feeling of being in Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico.

Coming Soon to Mill Creek: Sister City Gardens

by Mayor Harvey L. Hall When I visited Bucheon, South Korea in 2007, I saw the “City of Bakersfield Park” that honored Bucheon’s relationship with our city. From that visit sprang the idea of a series of gardens to spotlight Bakersfield’s sister cities. As far as I know, no other city has

Creek, and the generosity of Parsons Corporation in developing the concept drawings, has allowed this project to move forward. The Sister City Gardens will spring from the grounds of Central Park, the latest of many improvements of our Mill Creek project, with plantings and sculptures that represent landmarks in each of our Sister Cities. For example:

The renderings for the Wakayama Garden incorporate traditional Japanese designs.

Wakayama, Japan. Our longest Sister City relationship is with this harbor city located on an inland sea, an area rich with industry and farming. The Colors of Wakayama Garden will take its inspiration from the Wakayama Castle and its grounds: the blooming of Cherry Blossoms and the fall colors of the Japanese Maples. Paving will employ stone pavers reminiscent of the castle.

Cixi, China. Another harbor city is Cixi (pronounced “Soo-Shee”). This city is connected to Shanghai by the Hangzhou Bridge, the second largest in the world. Cixi is a national leader in agriculture, a large exporter of fruits, and is known as the “home of the red bayberry.” The Garden will create the experience of traveling through the low-lying agricultural areas to the mountains in the surrounding area, giving the garden its name “The Road through Cixi.” The entrance to the gar-

Bakersfield’s #1 Cheerleader

den will take its shape from the architecture of the Hangzhou Bridge.

Santiago de Queretaro, Mexico. Tracing its history back to the early 1500s, this city is Mexico’s equivalent to our Philadelphia: Mexican Independence of 1810 started there, the Constitution was forged there in 1917, and the city was the site of the first college of the New World.

Of great regional significance is the historic aqueduct built in the 1700s that stretched six miles to bring water to a growing city. The Constitution Garden will reflect those events, with an Aqueduct >>

The garden will give visitors a tranquility break from the park’s more active areas.

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 51

MILL creek Mill Creek Courtyard: functional and beautiful.

Carlos Navarro

Trellis running across the garden’s width.

Bucheon, South Korea.

Located between Seoul and Incheon, the city of Bucheon has preserved more than 50 percent of its area in parks, greenbelts, and public green spaces.

The Sister City garden will give visitors a sense of tranquility and separation from the more active areas of Mill Creek. Bucheon is famous for hosting various festivals, including Peach Blossom and Cherry Blossom festivals.

The canopy of this Sister City

Court Is In Session

With the completion of a federal courthouse east of Central Park, establishments along the creek will indeed see an increase in residents and visitors frequenting the area.

But this locale wasn’t always in the blueprints.

“There were discussions early on within the city that if a federal courthouse was to be built, it should be downtown,” Kunz mused.

So while plans in 2007 had the courthouse being built in Southwest Bakersfield, the community rallied behind a relocation.

“The one hurdle about downtown is that construction and expansion is restricted by city blocks,” she added.

But not to worry. The flexibility with the designs for Central Park allowed planners to utilize a section of the park for additional courthouse space without impacting the park’s amenities.

The benefits of having the federal courthouse downtown would far outweigh any inconveniences were they to arise.

City officials point out first that it will bring additional security to the area. Not to mention business and visitors.

Plus, it will save Bakersfield residents the hassle of driving to Fresno for any federal court cases.

We’ll see these benefits soon. Much sooner than anyone could have anticipated. And all because Congressman Kevin McCarthy lobbied to not only have this courthouse federally-owned instead of leased, but to have it fall under the recent stimulus.

“Congressman McCarthy helped get this project fast tracked under that stimulus,” Kunz explained. “For that reason, we’ll be breaking ground on the $30 million-plus courthouse in mid-2010 and construction will be completed by March of 2012.”

52 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Garden will not only provide a cool respite from the summer sun, but will be reminiscent of the flowering trees celebrated in these Bucheon festivals.

As Bakersfield adds more Sister Cities, there will be room in the park for future gardens.

One of these newer Sister Cities is the holy city of Amritsar, among the oldest in India. Home to the renowned Golden Temple, Amritsar is a major commercial, cultural, and transportation center near India’s border with Pakistan.

In 2010, a Bakersfield delegation will visit Wakayama, while a delegation from Wakayama will visit Bakersfield in 2011 with the goal of officially dedicating the Colors of Wakayama Garden.

In the meantime, these four gardens will be the first visible dedication to almost 50 years of Bakersfield’s participation in the Sister City program. They will make Mill Creek a truly oneof-a-kind place for Bakersfield residents and visitors alike. renderings courtesy Southwest Consulting

19th St. Senior Retail Center.

Redevelopment Rediscovered With the beautification of an area comes the added perk of new foot traffic. Not only will businesses in the area see increased patronage but the visitors already in the area will have one more thing to do.

That’s something that has Carlos Navarro, general manager of The Marriott at the Convention Center, very excited.

“This project can only benefit us because it’s giving our guests something additional to tour or visit,” Navarro explained.

“All around us expansion is happening, be it Maya Cinemas, the shopping centers and housing that will be built, and the river walk behind us. It will all help to give this part of town the energy it needs to continue growing.”

Navarro is also excited to see what the addition of the federal courthouse will do for commerce in the downtown area.

“It means big things for the expansion of business. There will be people spending a great deal of time downtown and that will help all the businesses tremendously.”

Not only are people needing a place to stay, but places to eat, shop, and relax. And this is the perfect location for that.

Economically Driven

Once completed, the variety of amenities housed under the Mill Creek Linear Park Project will benefit each other. People staying at The Marriott will have more to do, thus making that particular hotel more desirable for tourists. And more tourists means more business for the shops along the path. Folks looking for a place to live will be drawn to the proximity to retail centers and Maya Cinemas.

And businesses, banking on those tenants, will want to invest more in the area.

The growth is mutually beneficial, which is why so many people are excited at what lies ahead for this once discarded industrial part of Bakersfield.

One of those people is Dianne Hoover, the Recreation and Parks Director for the City of Bakersfield.

As Hoover explains, this is not just about putting in a few park benches and lamp posts.

“It’s one thing to put in a streetscape; you’re improving

Commercial Plaza’s striking lines are sheer beauty.

Phone Systems Service/Computers Firewall & Networking the look and feel of an area. But this project is different, it’s bigger. This is economically-driven development.”

While the landscaping will help the area visually, Hoover is more excited with the functionality of this project.

“It’s the perfect example of the beauty of redevelopment. So much commerce will be generated in this area and the investments will be beneficial. All that energy will funnel right back into our city.”

With all these developments, prepare to see a lot of programming coming out of the Recreation and Parks Department, including new amenities and improvements to Central Park—the catalyst for the entire Mill Creek Linear Park Project.

While this project will generate millions for the city once completed, the economic impact is only one facet. Sure, it’s a fortunate and much sought after facet, but the positive impact this project will have on the community makes any funds rolling in seem like icing on the cake.

It’s a big cake and one that took years and years to bake. But like we said before, redevelopment takes time. And no matter how you slice it, cake tastes good. v

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Beauty and progress: that’s Bakersfield Dianne Hoover

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Creating an Atmosphere for Success

Enter a private, nonprofit partnership—the brainchild of this avant-garde group of business leaders—the Kern Economic Development Corporation (KEDC). And since its inception in 1988, the KEDC has grown to include over 200 public and private investors working to build Kern County’s economy by funding the organization’s efforts to bring in such businesses as Frito Lay, Target, IKEA, State Farm, and Nestle.

But while they’ve worked hard to bring in these “new kid on the block”-type industries, oil and agriculture (our “bread and butter” trades), have never really gone out of style. And that’s a good thing, points out Richard Chapman, KEDC’s president and CEO. “Kern County is the leading energy provider for California, giving us strong ties to the ‘big players’ (Aera, Chevron, GE Energy, for example) in global energy. Seventy-seven percent of California’s crude oil comes from Kern County and with 280 sunny days per year, Kern will be on the forefront of one of the nation’s fastest growing industries—renewable energy.

“And as far as agriculture goes, Kern continues to be a major provider of the nation’s food supply and a natural area for agricultural businesses to locate.”

Keeping a hold on the roots of Kern’s economy has been helpful as we, like the rest of the country, navigate through the rocky terrain of a sluggish economy. Helping grow existing industries while courting innovative business prospects is what’s helped Kern County “hold its own,” Chapman notes.

“Despite the recession, we’re ranked in the top 10 on the list of mid-size cities for >>

Photos courtesy of Kern economic Development Corporation

BUSINESS

ver twenty years ago, a handful of Kern County business leaders knew there was more to the Golden Empire than oil and agriculture. Building a diverse community by recruiting new businesses to the area and working with existing businesses to help them grow would be the key to building a strong, stable economy. But where to start...

By Tracie Grimes

Big

o

Future-thinking business leaders knew there was a lot more to Kern County than just oil and agriculture.

Since 1988, the KEDC has grown to include over 200 public and private investors working to build Kern County’s economy.

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Corporate relocation

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 57

Big Business doing business in the nation and also as a great city for salary growth in the nation. We ranked in the top 12 on the list of best performing cities in the nation; and it’s projected that Kern County will be the first to emerge from the recession.”

And these facts go a long way in showing prospective businesses how locating in Kern County will help them find their way to the road to success.

Paving the Path to Kern County

A lot of people don’t want to even consider California, thinking of the congestion, high costs, and traffic jams; things most people associate with our state.

And while most people trying to lure big businesses to California avoid these topics like the plague, Chapman and his staff at the KEDC look forward to discussing these inauspicious issues.

“Since we’re here to act as a kind of ‘PR agent’ for the county, and I love touting the fact that we are the ‘new California,’ ”

panies here in Kern County, and we have ample, reasonablypriced business real estate opportunities.”

Federal, state, and local economic incentives are also great things the KEDC puts out on the table.

“Businesses relocating or expanding their operations in Kern County have a variety of incentives available. Employee Training Panel Funds [ETP], which provide direct employment training grants; Foreign Trade Zones [FTZ], which provide for some goods to pass in and out of the area with no import tariffs; and the Kern County Incentive Program, which offers rebates of property and sales/use taxes, are just a few examples of ways we can help build business here in Kern County. And we [the KEDC] are here to help organizations find the incentives that best suite their profile.”

But consultants doing the groundwork for businesses looking to relocate or expand are looking at certain “steadfast”

“We’re ranked in the top 10 on the list of mid-size cities for doing business in the nation.”

—Richard Chapman, KEDC

58 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

smiles Chapman as he clicks off some of our area’s biggest selling points. “The cost of living here in Kern County is considerably less than most other counties in California. The cost of living index for Bakersfield, for example, was 104 percent [US Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis, April 2008] while the index for Fresno was 120.6 percent.

San Francisco was a whopping 172.1 percent.

“It also costs less to do business in Kern County than it does in most areas of California. We have an abundant, affordable workforce instilled with a good work ethic, meaning there is a high rate of retention for com-

statistics that don’t really show a true picture of Kern County, Chapman points out, adding the KEDC works hard to put Kern’s best foot forward.

“The good news is that we’re lumped into a southern California profile, meaning that we’re close to L.A. [only 100 miles from the Port of Los Angeles], but the bad news it that we’re lumped into a southern California profile, which means that consultants not familiar with Kern County assume that the commute times in and around Bakersfield are the same as in L.A.; 47 minutes to go one mile.

Our commute time is actually 22 minutes per mile. We know time is money, so one of the biggest selling points for Kern County is

Richard Chapman

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not only the fact that Kern County commute times are half the commute times in L.A., but Bakersfield is four hours or less from 90 percent of the state’s population.

This central location gives us a tremendous advantage because businesses can get products from Bakersfield to Vegas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, Long Beach, in four hours or less.”

But besides pointing out the economic and logistical advantages of doing business in Kern County, Chapman and his crew are available to help sort out some of the “nuts and bolts” of business relocation/expansion.

“Since not all available sites are necessarily ‘on the market,’ we can help facilitate an organization’s search for the perfect location.”

Location is only one part of the equation; permits need to be pulled, beauracracies navigated, and KEDC personnel can help cut through a lot of the red tape.

“We can also help work through issues that come up in Human Resources. For instance, we helped schedule discussions between companies who had relocated here [like IKEA and Target] with companies considering relocating operations to Kern so they could talk openly and privately about things like the quality of the available work-

force. These dialogues are really helpful because companies can find out what it’s really like to do business here. Issues we may have never known existed have come up in these dialogues and we’ve been able to find ways of resolving the concern. As we were working with IKEA in 2008, for example, we found out that they had concerns about the lack of bus stops to the Tejon Industrial Complex [where the plant is located]. We talked with the folks at the Golden Empire Transit and they added two more stops that enable workers to get from Bakersfield to the plant.”

While making the road to success more painless for Kern County business partners, KEDC also works to keep us in the national spotlight bringing cutting-edge technological industries to Kern County. Aerospace and defense have been long-standing industries in Kern County, with Edwards Air Force Base, China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, XCOR Aerospace, and Fiberset Incorporated occupying the eastern part of the county, but the new century is bringing a renewable energy focus to Kern County. >>

2009

Corporate relocation

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Big Business

60 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Hydrogen Energy, a joint venture between BP and Rio Tinto, has filed their first USA application for a project based in Tupman, for which funding to the tune of $308 million was granted by the Obama Administration. This new electricity generating facility will use hydrogen to run its turbine electrical generators, then capture and store most of its carbon-related emissions deep underground, preventing release into the atmosphere. The plant is expected to generate enough power for over 150,000 homes.

“Having Hydrogen Energy build in Kern County is a big deal not only because it provides a revolutionary, cleaner way of generating power, but it brings jobs, taxes, and other economic benefits to our area,” Chapman says, adding that the three-year construction phase will bring about 1,500 construction-related jobs to Kern, while about 150 permanent jobs are expected to be filed once the plant is up and running.

Looking for businesses with an eye toward the future will benefit the county as a whole; that’s really what the KEDC is all about, Chapman notes.

And Kern County is a great place, agreed Tiffany Rau, policy and communications manager at Hydrogen Energy.

“The site was a great fit for us because it had all the resources we needed, close proximity to a major water supply, next to oilfields, close to carbon dioxide, but the county, city, and surrounding towns just welcomed us with such open arms! It was just really nice to have an organization like the KEDC contact us and help us feel so welcomed.”

The same attitude is shared by the execs at Men’s Wearhouse.

“We did look at sites in other states and the Inland Empire, and Tejon was more attractive price-wise with land that was ready to build upon,” said Jerry Essex, vice president of retail logistics at Famous Footwear, citing basic infrastructure, such as water, that was already in place at the site.

KEDC assisted Men’s Wearhouse in its decision to lease a 237,000-square-foot facility formerly occupied by Dopaco, Inc. “We’re here to bring in and support potential projects,” Chapman adds, “and the more we can help these businesses, the more we will prove to the world that once you’re here, you’ll say ‘Wow! What a great place!’ ” v

m

m

upset their staff until they know for sure that they will be relocating. It causes unnecessary stress on employees who begin to wonder if they’ll be forced to move or if they’ll be laid off. Often times, these companies are just looking at prospective locations,” Brown said. When the company is looking to simply expand, there is a little more disclosure, since new jobs are created.

So just how do these companies scout locations without being discovered? How can multi-million dollar proposals get passed from table to table with so much anonymity?

Well, the mystery is about to be solved. And we didn’t even need to bother Scotland Yard.

It all comes down to a name...a fake one.

“When I get an inquiry from a company >>

protecting

um’s the word when it comes to business in Kern County. We’re the James Bond of secret-keepers. Our lips are sealed tighter than a Go-Go’s song.

But there is a purpose to confidentiality, especially in the world of corporate relocation.

As the director for business development for Kern Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), Melinda Brown is in on the ground floor when corporations approach the county.

“These businesses, whatever industry they are in, are looking to expand or just relocate and they want to keep that information close to the chest.”

But why? What’s with all the hush-hush?

“There are numerous reasons for their secrecy,” Brown elaborated.

For starters, by announcing their prospective whereabouts, they’re giving a big heads-up to any competitors.

Another drawback to having people know you’re looking to relocate is that word could spread to current employees.

“Most companies are very adamant about not wanting to

PROJECT

When it comes to corporate relocation in Kern, secrecy is the name of the game.

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Corporate relocation

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 61

project X

Melinda Brown

Director of Business Development, KEDC

about a possible project, I get very little information,” Brown said. “I don’t know the name of the company, their product, or their current location.

I get just enough information to give them what they need.”

That information can be the size of the property this mysterious company needs, the land type required, or perhaps only the industry they’re in.

“Occasionally, I’ll know how many prospective workers they’ll need or how much capital investment they can spend.”

That’s it.

“Often times, the more interest there is in a project, the less disclosure,” she said. So to make sure everyone is on the same page with what little information the KEDC has, Brown gives each project a name if it has not been given one by the company.

“As an example, Famous Footwear came to us as Project Blue. We didn’t know who they were until they had decided on Kern County as their loca-

tion and the lease was signed.”

Now, since Famous Footwear is owned by Brown Shoe, one can only imagine they didn’t want to go by Project Shoe or Project Brown—that could be a dead giveaway.

“But Railex in Delano came to us as Railex. We knew we couldn’t go to investors with that information so I gave them the name Project Ice.” The name makes sense in retrospect when you realize Railex’s business is the transportation of produce in refrigerated

one wouldn’t be able to make the connection.”

For example, Project Labels was the name preceding Burlington Coat Factory’s opening.

Brown’s pièce de résistance, however, is Project Therapy— the code name for a large retail center that is currently in the works.

“I thought: retail...shopping... people shop as a form of therapy.” Simple as that.

So as these projects commence and the KEDC works to find them space to do business,

train cars. So Brown tries to find a link to the company and what they do when she picks her names.

“What little information we do have once we know the company or their industry is generally related to their project—so we come up with names as a way for us to remember internally. But outside of the KEDC,

confidentiality stays high on the priority list.

“Many companies make us sign confidentiality wavers before starting. They’re very concerned with information leaking.

We’ve heard of other EDC’s losing projects because information was accidentally leaked. Companies will pull projects even if the location is a great fit.”

Businesses large and small want the best deal they can get, and secrecy helps to ensure that.

62 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

And why is that?

Here’s one way to look at it.

If you’re Nike, you’ve got millions of dollars to spend on a new production factory. But do you want to spend millions of dollars if you don’t have to?

Of course not. You’re thinking that if a broker knows you can spend that kind of green, they’ll raise the price. So you sneak in without revealing who you are and feel confident you aren’t being gouged because of your name.

No matter what type of company we’re talking about, bignames are no different—they want a good deal.

“And we give them that,” Brown stressed. “If it means we have little company information to work with, so be it.” Most brokers and building owners aren’t looking to rip companies off or discriminate against bigtime corporations.

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Corporate relocation

Time is also against these incognito companies. The longer a project is in the works, the more people have the opportunity to find out about it.

And while, thankfully, no one discovered the details behind the developments at Tejon Industrial Complex, Brown worked on that massive project for three years.

So while there were news releases about major developments, new businesses joining the block, big names were never used.

But sometimes you know the name, you know the product, but it’s the details that are hush-hush. The buzz is that Grimmway Farms is doing some great things through their partnership with Cal Organics.

“They’re growing a variety of produce,” Brown explained of a five-acre greenhouse completed earlier this year. “Every-

thing from organic tomatoes, cucumbers, and different types of peppers. And they can grow them year-round. The location was ultimately picked because of the weather we have here.”

Located in Cummings Valley, outside of Tehachapi, this greenhouse is a great resource for our community even if some of the particulars are being kept under wraps for now.

Despite all the big secrecy,

“Those are all important aspects of this work because we want our reputation to help bring business to the Valley.

I continue to get contacted by companies looking to relocate or expand in Kern.”

At one point, Brown said she was getting a high volume of requests for information from companies all over the country. When the market was up, everyone was looking

Brown’s plate remains full.

While recruiting businesses to Kern County, she is also in charge of the retention and expansion of the businesses that are here already, helping with marketing plans, and fostering relationships with site managers.

to expand, relocate, and grow.

“Most of them were just looking for information. Now, we get fewer calls, but they’re the quality calls. The calls with weight behind them. And those are the best kind.”

They’re businesses that are

Kern County can give businesses what they need: space, quality workers, fair pricing, and secrecy.

seriously considering setting up shop in our area—which means more jobs, more money, and more resources for us.

Kern County can give them what they need: space, quality workers, fair pricing, and—the most important need—secrecy.

So while Performance Food Groups is a name we recognize, Brown and the KEDC will remember it fondly with a different moniker.

“They’re a food distributor and one of their clients is Outback Steakhouse,” Brown explained, a sly smile on her face. “And we all know what one of Outback’s signature items is.”

Henceforth, to the secret agents staffing the KEDC, Performance Food Group’s relocation will always be known as Project Onion. v

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 63

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Bakersfield’s Business

Achievers

It takes more than hard work to run a successful business. It takes persistence, dedication, and passion. And this special section celebrates the people who are giving their all to business in Bakersfield. These are people who have poured their heart and soul into their chosen profession and the community.

They’ve proven themselves and continue to excel while earning the respect of their peers and the public.

the

Achievers Series A Special Advertorial Presentation Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 65

SAN DIMAS MEDICAL GROUP, INC. Owners Name Here

The talented physicians who make up San Dimas

San Dimas Medical Group also boasts an American Regis-

Medical Group strive to provide the highest quality care

try for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) Certified ul-

to patients while treating them with the most advanced

trasonographer—the only one in the immediate area—who

medical procedures.

is trained to detect chromosomal abnormalities in the first

For over 36 years, this Obstetric and Gynecology prac-

trimester of pregnancy.

tice has done just that. And as medical breakthroughs

“So many procedures can be done in-office as well,”

continue to occur, San Dimas Medical Group will bring

said Tillai Kannappan, M.D., noting the convenience for

these advances to Bakersfield.

the community. “Including those to reduce bleeding (i.e.

One such breakthrough is the HALO® Breast Pap Test.

endometrial ablation) and a sterilization procedure not

This test has revolutionized the way women are screened

requiring the use of general anesthesia. We can also treat

for breast cancer risk as it can detect precancerous cells

infertility including intrauterine insemination.”

in women as young as 20 years old. HALO is effective in

While their dedication to bringing the best medicine to

women who are too young to have mammograms and

Kern County is commendable, the reason this practice is

San Dimas pioneered the use of this test in Kern County,

able to provide such an expansive level of care is because

something all the physicians in the practice are proud of.

the team itself is made up of a diverse group of doctors, both

“This test can detect precancerous and cancer cells five

culturally and medically. Each physician offers a different

to eight years before a mammogram would be able to,”

background and unique specialty which complements the

explained Jigisha Upadhyaya, M.D. “The test itself takes

entire practice and the patients they serve.

only five minutes and no appointment is necessary. It can be done during a lunch break.”

“This is complete comprehensive womens’ care,” said Gregory R. Klis, M.D. “In our single-specialty, ten physician

In addition to HALO, the practice specializes in virtually

group, each doctor offers something different and that

every aspect of cutting-edge prenatal and postnatal

ultimately benefits patients because we can confer with

care, including office management of infertility, high-

each other. Patients aren’t referred outside of the practice.

risk obstetrics, 4-D and gender check ultrasounds, and a

There is always a doctor here, 24-hours a day,” he added.

Diabetes Care Program with nutrition counseling that is second to none in Bakersfield.

“And because all our records are electronic, the doctor can easily and quickly access a chart, labs, or history to better

Minimally invasive surgery for urinary incontinence, ablation

treat that patient during an emergency,” Dr. Kannappan

procedures, and pelvic reconstructive care are also available.

elaborated. Their online access allows patients to make

These additional services and procedures are coming at just

appointment requests, prescription refills and access forms

the right time, too. “As the population is aging, these proce-

on their computer from the convenience of their homes.

dures are becoming more common for the Baby Boomer gen-

Soon patients will be able to access their lab results as well.

eration,” Dana Edwards, M.D. elaborated. “So a shorter procedure time and the quicker recovery time is very important.”

All these services add up to one thing: quality, comprehensive care for women in Bakersfield.

300 Old River Road, Suite 200 x 661.663.4800 www.sandimasmedical.com

66 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Back Row (l-r) Jigisha Upadhyaya, M.D., James Tsai, M.D., Dana Edwards, M.D., David Lewis, M.D., Jacqueline Ava Williams-Olango, M.D. Front Row (l-r) Wendy Crenshaw, M.D., Tillai Kannappan, M.D., Noel G. Del Mundo, M.D., Marietta Tan, M.D., Gregory Klis, M.D.

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 67

SPHERION STAFFING SERVICES Glenna Gates, owner

For Glenna Gates, the most important rule in business is

We jumped in as green as could be, but I haven’t regretted it.

to set expectations high and over-deliver. You’ve got to be

We’re building our capabilities. Our team aims to stabilize and un-

accountable for your product, your

derstand our markets, harmonize with the

image, and your clients. That’s the

community, and optimize our resources; ul-

motto Gates, who is the owner of three

timately to provide the best employment

Spherion Staffing Services in the Central

opportunities to clients and the best

Valley, including one in Bakersfield,

positions to the employees we place.”

upholds with the help of a small group

That philosophy is working. There are well

of dedicated employees.

over 400 employees on payroll everyday

“I worked for 25 years as a call center

through the help of Spherion. “You have

director for Fortune 100 companies

to know your community and know the

including FedEx, US West, Verizon, and

risks, but continue to build an image for

other corporations with large groups of

yourself,” Gates says. That attitude has

employees. But I worked in all facets of

been instrumental in Spherion’s success

customer service,” Gates explains.

in Bakersfield and the Central Valley.

“I came to a career transition point

“If we want to make sure our prices

and I made the decision to strike out on

are competitive, we can’t afford to

my own. I had worked for Spherion on contract in 2005 to help

make a mistake. So we engineer our operations that way.

turn around a call center and that’s how I found out about the

What we give our clients is the same thing we’d want in our

recruiting services Spherion provides. It had appeal,” she says.

own businesses. We’re making an investment up front. We’re

The gentleman Gates worked under during that first contract

a national brand with a local support system.”

owned several locations and was looking to sell them, so Gates

Local is something Gates aims to always keep at the fore-

purchased both the Fresno and the Visalia location in 2006.

front. “It’s all about being local. We’re building on some-

“I put my retirement on the line. And instantly I thought,

thing here—bringing our high-caliber service, commitment,

‘What have I done?’ ” Gates says, laughing.

and passion,” she adds.

But that didn’t stop this personable woman from wanting to expand.

In just under a year, Gates has seen the rewards of working hard. During the first year of eligibility, our local Spherion

“We saw that Bakersfield showed so much promise and Spherion could grow in this community and, in turn, help the community grow.”

was a President’s Award Winner and was ranked in the Top Performers Club.

“The rewards are great, but what I appreciate is that it shows

So she hit the ground running and though there were

our positive track record in the community,” Gates adds.

many challenges, there was no stopping her business plan.

And that’s something she’s looking forward to building

“We knew we needed to grow the company slowly here.

on for years to come.

140 South Montclair Street, Suite A x 661.835.1400 www.spherion.com

68 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

(l-r) Connie Van Worth, Glenna Gates, Ellen Ferrell, Jim Gates Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 69

CARRIAGE MASTERS Red & Elecia Harden, owners

Have you driven down Rosedale Highway lately, noticed the

front, and explained that he had paid one month’s rent in advance.

big Carriage Masters building with the grand entrance next to

Red was on his own! For the next 10 years, he worked on Hollywood

Ashley Furniture, and wondered what

studio cars for movies and television, and

they did there? Well, they are the largest

customized cars for the stars. He had the

independently-owned paint and body shop

privilege of creating the Coffin Car (for The

in Bakersfield and one of the largest in the

Munsters), Kit (for Knight Rider), and the

nation. From the time you enter their front

Dodge Charger (for The Dukes of Hazard),

door, you know this is a quality shop. Their

to name a few, as well as doing custom

office and waiting area are reminiscent of

work for over 100 celebrities and athletes.

a European marketplace with all of the faux

Tiring of the frantic pace of studio work

painting and decorator touches. It feels more

and the demands of celebrity clients, Red

like a spa than a collision repair shop, and

relocated to Bakersfield where he continued

that was the goal. Every attempt has been

his custom work for over 20 years on 19th

made to make the female customer feel

Street. In the mid-1990s, he began doing

as comfortable in this repair process as any

high-end collision repairs for personal friends

man would in a body shop. Owner/operator

and discovered there was a huge demand

Red Harden could have only dreamed of

for quality collision repair. In 1997, Red and his

this kind of success considering his meager upbringing.

wife, Elecia, purchased the old O.B. Nuzum tire building on California

After running away from an orphanage in Oklahoma as a

Avenue and began accepting all make and model collision repairs.

youngster, Red caught rides with truck drivers traveling up and down

Between then and now, the business has grown from a small

the east coast doing odd jobs along the way to survive. In 1960, at

shop with a single employee to a 40,000 square foot repair facility,

age 12, Red made his way to California and landed in L.A. As fate

with state-of-the-art equipment and 30 employees.

would have it, he bumped into a man who owned a custom car shop in Burbank that just happened to be in the process of firing someone.

Understanding their business philosophy, it’s not surprising that success has found the Hardens.

“I asked for a job: the chance to sweep his floors at night. I even

As Red explained, “We are all about serving our customers

told him that if he didn’t like my work he didn’t have to pay me. I

and providing them with an honest repair. With all the paperwork

think an honest day’s work says a lot about you,” Red explained.

surrounding collisions and insurance, we strive to make the

Red got the job, but it wasn’t all about brooms. He was given hands-on instruction in building and customizing cars. By the time he was 15, the boss was ready to see what this teenager could really do. He was given a stall and paid $250 per job. He completed job after job for about a year. It was fast-paced work but Red’s work ethic helped him excel. Returning to work one morning, his boss had pushed Red’s tool chest down the alley into a small store

process as simple as possible. Our experience combined with our attention to customer service sets us apart.”

Elecia went on to say, “We don’t just want a happy customer, we want a loyal one.”

Red said it best: “Be honest, be fair, and treat each customer as we like to be treated.”

It’s a motto that’s worked for this family-owned business for many years.

8929 Rosedale Highway x 661.587.0550 www.carriagemasters.com

70 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

(l-r) Red, Hannah, Garrett & Elecia Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 71

P R O F I L E S

Greenlawn Mortuaries Jim La Mar, President 3700 River Blvd. • (661)324-9701 For over 75 years, Greenlawn Mortuaries and Cemeteries has provided Bakersfield with heartfelt compassion and quality service during the most difficult times in our lives.

Over those years, the business has grown steadily.

What started out as a monument and burial vault company has expanded to encompass two cemeteries, two mortuaries, and Wood Family Funeral Service, Inc. in Tehachapi, which recently joined the Greenlawn family. The one thing that has stayed the same, however, is their philosophy. Greenlawn strives to provide the personal touch that can only come from a family-run business.

And as such, this local operation can go above and beyond for families seeking their services.

“I put forth a challenge to our directors here,” president and CEO Jim La Mar explained. “I challenged them to think outside the box. I want them to do all that they can to exceed expectations, to do whatever they can to meet the needs of the families we serve.”

La Mar has been a part of the Greenlawn family since 1990, but only recently stepped up to fill the shoes of longtime president Bob Shaffer.

“Bob worked for Greenlawn for 43 years,” La Mar explained. “And he is still involved with the business as a board member. Bob and I talk weekly and meet at least every month to discuss business. I strive to continue what Bob started, moving Greenlawn in the right direction. We have a long history with this community,” La Mar continued, “and we do not take that lightly. But we also know that our heritage alone isn’t enough for people to choose us when the need arises. We have to provide them with the best choices, services, and facilities.”

That’s what prompted La Mar to do the exact opposite of what many businesses are doing in today’s economy.

Bob Shaffer & Jim La Mar “Many companies are trying to cut costs, but we’re investing in our facilities, and we feel it will benefit the families we serve. I’m very proud of that. Because how can we ask cremation at no cost to families with certain property purchases. them to come to us if we can’t give them the positive experiences “We understand how important it is for a family to come together they deserve?” during such a difficult time, so we started allowing the use of our That’s why Greenlawn is undergoing a major facelift this year. chapel at no cost when our customers choose cremation. When In addition to new restroom facilities, a remodeled lobby, and new we fully care for their needs, it makes us a better business in the paint, they’ll be enhancing the landscaping. long run. I remind myself every day to ‘earn this’ right to serve the But the changes aren’t all within the grounds. La Mar is diligent families that come to us. I want to be the voice that reminds our in ensuring the types of services they offer are not only in tune with employees that this is not a job; it’s an opportunity to help someone. what families today want, but that they are economical. While many I don’t take it lightly.” families are choosing cremation for their loved ones, Greenlawn That’s exactly what this family-run business is doing on a daily understands the need to have a location to visit in order to pay their basis for families in Kern County, and it appears to us that Bob respects. To offer those needed services, Greenlawn is providing the Shaffer has placed Greenlawn in good hands.

72 72Bakersfield BakersfieldMagazine Magazine- -www.bakersfieldmagazine.net www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

C O R P O R A T E

R E L O C A T I O N

Action Glass 2300 Q Street • (661) 633-9618

Action Glass’s reputation for knowledge, experience, and performance, as well as our strong commitment to service and an unsurpassed level of integrity, has contributed to our success in this community. Exceeding expectations for customers, whether residential or commercial, is our first priority!

Action Glass was established in 1992 and immediately became an industry leader as a full-service glass shop in Kern County.

Our services and products include all products for commercial, residential and industrial glazing including but not limited to sale and installation of residential windows (new and replacement), shower doors and tub enclosures, glass shelving, mirrors, and table tops, and includes 24-Hour Emergency Service. Our team will come to your location, board up your broken glass, and take measurements for replacement.

Residential customers know they can rely on our knowledgeable staff to provide quality products including energy-efficient windows, decorative kitchen cabinet glass, and shelving to enhance the beauty and functionality of their home or office for years to come. Our staff will happily guide you through the entire process from design to installation.

For our commercial customers, whatever their needs—new construction, remodeling, or repair—they know to call Action

Glass first. Our expertise in plate glass replacements, commercial storefronts, and aluminum and automatic doors, is unsurpassed. We believe the storefront metal and glass of a building often creates the first impression for your customers, so we aim to positively impact the beauty and style of your business.

Our energy-efficient products also make it easy to manage the cost of your home and business. Now is the time to replace your windows with energy-efficient windows before winter heating bills rise because you may qualify for up to $1,500 in tax credits.

Action Glass offers free quotes and no job is too small or too large. Call us at (661) 633-9618 or stop in and meet our friendly staff at our wellstocked location. Visit our website at www.actionglass-inc.com.

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 73

74 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

GARDENING WITH MRS. P

Think it’s too late to plant a garden?

Mrs. P thinks it’s time for round two!

Encore!

he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says Americans spend 90 percent of their time indoors. You have to wonder who the EPA people talked to for this survey. Do they think our gardens instantaneously materialize via hand-held remote controls operated by couch-potatoes? Hello?

Not in Bakersfield! With so many people asking me questions about gardening, I’m led to believe that we sneak in a lot more outside time than this governmental agency knows. Is there a secret conspiracy afoot? No, I think we all just lose track of real-time when we’re outdoors weeding, watering, and planting. I sure do. That’s when I think about what looks good, what doesn’t, and what I can do to make my garden look nicer. This is the reason for my column in Bakersfield Magazine; how to make our gardens look and work better.

The following are more questions that I wasn’t able to answer in my last column.

Question: What kinds of vegetables can I plant in the fall?

Answer: Almost as many as there are stars in the sky! We live in the Great San Joaquin Valley, after all. We feed the world! More than

©

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c kp

ho t

o.co m/o g-visi on

By Lynn Pitts

half of the top 20 crops in Kern County are planted in the fall. Your choices are only limited by what you and your family will actually eat. No fava bean or broccoli lovers in your house? Then try peas, spinach, beets, carrots, cauliflower, kale, or cabbage. Green onions are always a winner and usually started from “sets” or small bulbs in the early fall. Paired with home-grown lettuces, they will be the beginnings of a delicious salad. I grow many varieties of mixed lettuces from seed, although you can find pony-packs in the nurseries already started. Loose-leaf (“Red oak leaf”), Bibb (“Tom Thumb”), mesclun (“Napa Valley Mix”), romaine (“Rouge d’Hiver”), crisp head (“Nevada”), and the arugulas are all good salad green varieties.

Question: What can I do with all the green tomatoes left on the old vines?

Answer: You mean to say you live in Bakersfield and have never made Fried Green Tomatoes? OK, I’m thinking you want to know how to ripen them. Take an ice chest and put the green tomatoes inside along with some apples. They both release ethylene gas (don’t tell the EPA!) as they ripen. The extra “charge” from the apples will speed the tomatoes along to a rich red ripeness. >>

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 75

Gardening with Mrs. P

Question: Can I plant herbs in the fall?

Answer: Perennial herbs should be planted in the fall. Look for pots of chives, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. An especially interesting herb I grow is Garden Sorrel. Used as a salad green or vegetable, this hardy perennial dates back before 3000 B.C. The English wrote recipes for cooking with sorrel in the 13th century, but its main claim to culinary fame resides with the French. The leaves somewhat resemble spinach. To taste a Chiffonade of Fresh Sorrel, Cream of Sorrel Soup, or a Sorrel Omelet is to experience a classy, French meal. My Larousse Gastronomique, the doorstopper-size encyclopedia of food, wine, and cookery, mentions sorrel no fewer than 30 times. Julia Child gives a lovely recipe for “Potage Crème d’Oseille” (Cream of Sorrel Soup) in her classic book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Scatter the seeds in your garden and bon appetit!

PHOTO BY STAN SHEBS

Question: I’m looking for some tough shrubs; ones that can take heat and wind but need little water. I would like more than just foliage though and want some showy flowers, maybe with a sweet smell.

Spectacular as well as hardy “Texas Rangers.”

76 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Answer: Gosh, you want it all. Well, Hi Ho Silver, the Rangers are here! No, not the Lone Ranger—the Texas Rangers! Native to the Lone Star State (and Mexico), these evergreen shrubs are botanically named Leucophyllum frutescens. The “frutescens” part tells you they’ll smell “kinda purty.” The newer varieties, selected and trademarked by Texas A&M University and Mountain States Nursery in Arizona have wonderful names: “Rio Bravo,” “Cimarron,” “White Cloud,” “Silver Cloud,” “Thundercloud,” “Rain Cloud,” and “Green Cloud.” They are simply beautiful in a mass planting or alone as a single specimen. Their fragrant, bell-shaped flowers come in colors like purple, white, pink,

violet, lavender, and rose. Some even smell like grape bubble gum! Plant Texas Rangers and you’ll thank me. Their foliage is quiet but those flowers carry a big punch.

Question: The colors in my yard seem to be in crazy competition with each other. My eyes almost hurt with all the oranges, purples, and reds. How can I make order out of the jumble of colors?

Answer: Simple. You need pockets of a light, neutral color to rest your baby blues.

Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantina) and Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria) are perfect foils for plants with distinctive colors. Their silvery cast creates a harmonious partner between and amongst the flowers. Don’t overdo it.

Too much silver is just as bad as too much of any one color and will look blah. Place silver and grey-leaved plants sparingly to achieve the best effect. Likewise, utilize different shades of green shrubs in between your brilliant colored plants.

WhiteForestNursery.com

Create unique outdoor living spaces

Gifts of Distinction Bauhinia Tree, aka “Hong Kong Orchid.”

plant some old favorites for late winter and early spring flowering. You cannot beat this month for scattering seeds of forget-me-nots, nigella, sweet peas, bachelor buttons, calendulas, poppies, English daisies, feverfew, snapdragons, and stock. They come up almost by magic and will color and scent your garden effortlessly. Try to plant your sweet peas by Halloween and do remember to soak the seeds for eight hours in tepid water before sowing. Do not add any manure to the planting trench as it will somehow stunt the sweet pea’s growth.

I’ve been enjoying sitting under my covered pergola and wonder if the EPA considers this to be inside-outside time or outside-inside time? In fact, I’m wondering if the EPA folks even came to California for their survey because everyone I know spends way more than 10 percent of their time outdoors. I’m even thinking those EPA people just made up their stupid old figures because they live in Washington, D.C. and not in balmy Bakersfield. v Lynn Pitts, better known as Mrs. P., is a native Californian, master gardener in four counties including Kern, a garden writer, and professional botanical artist. She has been featured on “The Art of Gardening,” on PBS, and has conducted flower workshops throughout California for botanical gardens and arboretums.

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Question: I want to grow a different, more unusual tree, maybe with perfumed flowers.

What do you suggest?

Answer: Two trees come to mind. One which I’ve grown in my garden and another I’m hoping to try out. While not for every type of garden, they do provide the “wow factor” you’re seeking. The first is Bauhinia Tree, known variously as Hong Kong Orchid, Purple Orchid, or Butterfly Tree. It’s a deciduous tree that can be frost-tender unless planted against a fence or wall facing southeast or southwest.

The light green, almost celadon-colored, twinlobed leaves are unique to Bauhinias. The flowers are deliciously scented and really do look like orchids. I’ve enjoyed my Bauhinia.

The second perfumed flowering tree is an evergreen, called Sweet Olive (Osmanthus fragrans). It’s a patio tree which means it won’t grow more than 10 to 15 feet in height and 6 feet wide. It can be espaliered. Sweet Olive, a native of China, prefers afternoon shade. Its leaves are oval, glossy, and have powerfully fragrant flowers in spring and early summer.

I’m told some Sweet Olive trees flower sporadically all year, which sounds great.

While most of you are busy during this time of year with back-to-school projects, the Great Kern County Fair, and preparing for Halloween festivities, take an hour or two to

661-366-6291

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GreenAsItGets.com Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 77

The Karim Residence

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Carpet • Hardwood • Laminate • Travertine • Marble 78 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net Residential & Commercial

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

home & Garden

story & photos by miles johnson

timely advice &

Seasonal Spice

after

Seasonally Speaking...

Remember back “in the day” when your mom (or perhaps grandma) would re-arrange the furniture for the seasons? Or decorate the dining room in fall colors? Maybe she even changed out the

simple ideas, dramatic differences

china in the hutch or hung weightier curtains as the weather got cooler. Whatever the changes were, you knew that she had officially acquiesced to the changing of seasons. And those changes were exciting, weren’t they?

But somewhere along the way, we stopped putting out the winter linens or forgot to change the guest bathroom towels. Did we get lazy or did fashion simply stop favoring the more refined subtleties of seasonal decorating? When did the gaudy ostentatiousness of overt holiday-esque brick-a-brack supplant the discriminating aesthetic of good taste?

Well, I am here to tell you that those ideals are not completely forgotten nor lost. In fact, recognizing the seasons through your décor can be a rather simple endeavor; at once exhilarating and rejuvenating to your home. One simply has to try and forget (for a short while) that we live in a climate of two seasons. I don’t have to tell you what they are.

BEFORE

To start, one has to simply define what the fall and winter seasons mean to them; what invokes the memory of a sublime >> Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 79

home & Garden resources

fall morning or a chilled winter night? For me the answers are color and texture. Warm, earthy, things-growing-on-a-vine colors have always made me think of fall pumpkins, piles of raked leaves, and crisp mornings. Off-white linens with shimmering details; throws to snuggle up in and stark contrasts of black, blue-gray, and silver have always made me think of long Wisconsin winters.

Our “before” picture shows a rather contemporary living

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By keeping the décor on a coffee table to a simple minimum, you can continue the seasonal look without sacrificing functionality. A simple dish lined with fall “faux-liage” and nested with autumn-inspired decorative glass ornaments creates a striking look with barely any effort at all.

In our winter look, the stage is the same, merely the coverings have changed. This is the perfect time to bring out personal mementos and family treasures to share with friends, such as antique mercury glass finials or a great-grandfathers’ pocket watch. Sparkle and drama have been infused with the softness of a faux-fur throw and plenty of pillows for lounging while you and your guests ponder resolutions for the coming New Year.

Why not resolve to bring a little Normal Rockwell into your home by decorating like mom did? n

80 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

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Help save the environment

GOING

GREEN It’s called Ecycling, people, and it’s been around for a lot longer than you think! In fact, in 2003, California was the first state to pass an e-waste law.

We’re all ready to do our part to help the earth, and one of the biggest ways to do this is to make sure that we’re recycling our electronics properly. Just like plastic and paper, electronic equipment can be recycled and reused.

But did you know that dumping any electronic waste (e-waste) is not only very bad for the environment, but it’s also illegal in some areas. Because unlike a water bottle, there are noxious chemicals inside our cell phones, computer monitors, and televisions, and when these products break, we’re left with a mess on our hands. These waste products can do horrible things to our environment.

So while we’re committed to making sure those plastic cups and old newspapers go in the right bins, do any of us know which bin is equipped to handle a 200-pound T.V.?

The answer? No bin. That’s because e-waste has to be disposed of in a specific way to ensure the safety of not only our planet, but the folks who handle it.

For starters, why is it so important to recycle old electronics?

Well, according to the National Center for Electronics Recycling (NCER), ecycling conserves natural resources that would otherwise be used to make new electronics. So if that cell

Dumping electronic waste is not only very bad for the environment, but can be illegal. phone you have works fine, pass it along when you buy the new model. Many, if not all, cell phone companies have a recycling policy for old phones. Similarly, many computer manufacturers have programs set up to handle broken equipment. They can be refurbished and redistributed. Some of those refurbished electronics will help organizations provide much-needed electronics to low-income families, schools, and other nonprofits.

Ecycling can also help the community by creating jobs.

As the demand for electronics recycling increases, new businesses will form and existing companies will grow.

And perhaps most importantly, ecycling protects public health and the environment.

82 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

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...create jobs too!

is it time to

E-CYCLE? There are many things to consider, however, before you start sorting your cell telephones and monitors.

While it’s preferable that you try and reuse your electronics before taking them to a recycling center, be aware that some nonprofits are unable to a handle products that are broken or outdated equipment.

Also, if you are recycling your computer, you should take steps to protect any data or personal information you stored on your hard drive. Before recycling the computer, make sure your hard drive is wiped clean. Some ecycling plants do have policies to wipe hard drives before refurbishing, but it’s always a good idea to be safe and do it yourself.

And before you go filling your trunk with old equipment, call the ecycling center you were planning on visiting to make sure they can handle the types of electronics you want to bring in. Some of them don’t have the capacity to handle these products in bulk, either.

You might be wondering what happens to your old broken computer once it’s off your hands.

Again, the NCER has the answer.

“There are currently two dominant approaches to recycling used electronic products: demanufacturing and shredding.

“Demanufacturing involves manually dismantling the electronics in order to market the recyclable raw materials/products that are found. The dismantling process yields more components that can be reused in secondary markets. Demanufacturing/dismantling is most usually done by trained technicians who use a variety of machines and hand tools.

“Shredding involves a minimal amount of manual sorting and separation of compo-

©istockphoto.com/JulienGrondin

nents. In the shredding process, electronics are loaded into [...] shredding equipment.

The shredding process allows recyclers to recover the maximum value from the recyclable metals in used electronics.”

But where do you go? The state of California has a list on their website listing the state-approved collectors and recyclers of covered electronic waste (a partial list is below). Here in Kern County, we have quite a few but be sure to recognize the difference between an organization that simply collects the waste and one that actually recycles it. So grab those old monitors and head on down to an ecycling center near you. You’ll be doing a good thing for the environment and the community.

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 83

84 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

GREAT

GETAWAYS

By Donna McCrohan Rosenthal

Northern Majesty ~ Just

a few Hours North~

Western Canada By Rail

Photo courtesy via rail

Climb aboard VIA Rail or the Rocky Mountaineer—a swaying, scenic journey through riparian sanctuaries, forests, and canyons, occasionally traversed by bear, elk, and moose. What? In Kern County? Not quite. But by plane from Bakersfield to Los Angeles (then three hours by air to Vancouver, Canada) or San Francisco (two hours), the unforgettable magic carpet ride is well within reach. In fact, you can fly to Western Canada in about the time it takes to drive to Las Vegas.

Just imagine. Western Canada and the Rockies.

Harbors and trestle bridges. Sea birds and majestic raptors. Wolves and bighorn sheep. Waterfalls and ice-capped peaks. Lakes and rivers from silver to cobalt, reflecting vistas as vibrantly sharp as the originals. Blazing sunrises and starry night skies. Golden leaves in the autumn and wildflowers in the spring—spikes of white and lavender, billows of yellow, splashes of red, orange, and deep purple. Low and lower clouds, ribbons of clouds, streaks of clouds—with mountains of variegated hues towering over them.

The train’s motion can put you to sleep, yet you want to catch a last glimpse of the sherbet-colored sunset, and to hang onto every precious minute.

Photo

cou

rte

You feel privileged to be there. Many of these spots you can’t reach by car, but even if you could, consider the best way to see them. Concentrating on traffic from behind the wheel—or sitting, sipping, and snapping photos? “Men at work. Fines doubled” or “Please have more hors d’oeuvre”? >>

scenic beauty from your chair

sy

Roc k

yM

ou

ntaineer

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 85

~

Photo courtesy Rocky Mountaineer

Great Getaways The Trains ~

You can hardly single out one panorama or another and call it the most beautiful on earth, because they all compete for the title.

VIA Rail, Canada’s passenger rail service, has several extraordinary routes. The showcase “Canadian” joins Vancouver (in British Columbia) with Jasper and Edmonton (in Alberta) and beyond. The VIA Rail winter-only “Snow Train” into Jasper caters to skiing enthusiasts with an on-board Marmot Ambassador who can arrange for lift tickets, lessons, and rental equipment.

VIA Rail’s “Skeena” travels farther north, almost approaching the Alaska border, between Prince Rupert and Jasper, and stopping overnight in Prince George in either direction. The glorious two-day 725mile daylight excursion crosses the Pacific Northwest through fjord country and vast stands of giant cedars and hemlocks, passing whole buildings on barges, foaming green rapids cutting through sheer gorges, and the highest summit in the Western Rockies, Mt. Robson. The “Skeena” offers premium Totem class from mid-May to mid-October, with regional cuisine brought to your seat plus other enhancements, as well as economy class year-round.

The Rocky Mountaineer, the largest privately-owned passenger rail service in North America, welcomed its one-millionth guest in 2008. It operates on three different routes between Vancouver or Whistler and the Canadian Rockies destinations of Jasper, Banff, and Calgary. Like VIA Rail, it delivers you into the heart of enchanted terrain that steals your breath away.

A short three-hour trip, the Rocky Mountaineer’s “Whistler Mountaineer” runs between North Vancouver and the ski hamlet of Whistler, one of the sites of the 2010 Winter Olympics. During some months, the spawning salmon in the river attract bears, coyotes, and a huge eagle population, adding to the enjoyment of the experience. The longer, splendidly visual Rocky Mountaineer’s “Kicking Horse/Yellowhead Route” connects Vancouver to Kamloops, Jasper, and Banff through old-growth woods and the emerald waters of glacial lakes.

Rocky Mountaineer’s jaw-dropping marvelous “Fraser Discovery Route” from Vancouver to Jasper with an overnight stop in Quesnel, penetrates some of the same territory as VIA Rail’s Canadian, from coastal rain forest to arid desert with sage brush and rattlesnakes, but heads north toward

The sheer height of what you see from the train is unbelievable, like this view of Stoney Creek.

Prince George. Exploring seldom-seen landscapes, it traces the path prospectors followed during the Gold Rush. ~Wealth

of Choices~

You might start by deciding on a route, but then what? Some services provide meals at your seat while others have dining cars; some travel day and night while others, daylight only. If you spend the night on the train, do you prefer a comfortable coach seat, or a sleeping car? Amenities come in all shapes and sizes, regular and deluxe.

Both VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer have premier classes, and spectacular domed observation cars with gigantic windows perfectly suited for sighting bears and appreciating the amazing scope of the surroundings. They also both boast promotions and packages, for example VIA Rail invites children to travel free with paying adults and seniors can bring a friend for free. The Rocky Mountaineer often gives Early Booking Bonuses, and has about 70 vacation deals. Check the websites or phone (viarail.ca; 888-VIA-RAIL and rockymountaineer.com; 877-460-3200) to weigh your options. Be sure to address the key questions: what does the fare include?

Meals? Roomette or fold-down seats or hotels en route?

Next, pick your flights. Study what’s out there. For example, Air Canada has complimentary on-demand movies, TV programming, and music at every seat, no fees for booking over the phone, and no check-in fees for up to two bags.

Then break out a map. Notice that Prince Rupert sits on an ocean bay on the edge of the Canadian wilderness, Jasper rests snugly in the Canadian Rockies, and so on.

Know where you’re going.

86 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

~What

to do on Foot~

To avoid the worst mistake most vacationers make, remember that you’ll begin and end in a city that probably deserves your attention, and on some trains, you’ll need to book your own mid-route hotel.

Rather than wandering aimlessly around, research your itinerary in advance and perhaps permit yourself an extra day or two for galleries, spas, hot springs, outdoor sports, museums, historic restorations, and First Nations exhibits. Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta, dazzle with favorites such as the Athabasca Falls, Columbia Icefield, and Athabasca Glacier nearby. UNESCO declared Banff National Park a World Heritage Site in 1984.

Calgary, Alberta, draws millions each year with its shopping, theatre, galleries, symphony, ballet, concerts, festivals, and elaborate park and pathway systems.

The Cariboo Chilcotin, BC, region between Prince George and Whistler speaks from Canada’s very soul, with the restored gold rush boom town of Barkerville, the Xat’sull Heritage Village, and Kumsheen Rafting Resort noted for accommodations in tepees or cabin tents and power rafting over rapids with names like Rattlesnake, Devil’s Gorge, and the Fluffy Bunny of Death.

Edmonton, Alberta, famous for having the world’s biggest shopping mall, further distinguishes itself as the Festival City with a string of exuberant events from the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival to the Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival.

Jasper, Alberta, and the Jasper National Park excel in the realms of fishing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and wild rafting. The Aerial Tramway climbs to an alpine observation deck that overlooks six mountain

John Owens, MD

The Cariboo Chilcotin region between Prince George and Whistler is breathtaking.

Photo courtesy cariboo chicotin coast tourism

ranges. At the Jasper Inn, 90 rooms have kitchens and fireplaces, and its “Cruise & Snooze Family Package” pairs lodging with a boat cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, an adventure voted the “Best Boat Tour in Canada” by Reader’s Digest.

Prince George, BC, charms visitors with Fort George Park, Exploration Park, the Native Art Gallery, Two Rivers Art Gallery, shopping on Specialty Avenue, the Prince George Railway & Forestry Industry Museum, the Aquatic Centre with a wave-pool, and the WinterLights Celebration.

Prince Rupert, BC, spills over with opportunities to learn more about Canada’s infinite variety from its Museum of Northern B.C., Kwinitsa Railway Museum, Firehall Museum, Sunken Gardens, Historic Downtown, and North Pacific Cannery to the Pike Island Archaeological Site and a rainforest with Spanish moss. From the Butze Rapids Trail outside of Prince Rupert, you can witness the phenomenon of reversing tidal rapids.

Vancouver, BC, and its environs reward as many hours or days as you care to invest there. The best of the old meets the best of the new with shopping, culture, an ocean promenade, Stanley Park, Granville Island,

and exceptional restaurants. The grand Fairmont Hotel Vancouver rolls out its finest for humans and pets. Its pet menu features doggy “bison meatloaf” and salmon stew for cats. The Fairmont Waterfront has a thirdfloor terrace garden with a Pacific view. Both Fairmonts have resident dogs for guests to walk. The Listel Hotel embodies the essence of Vancouver with the guest rooms on gallery floors designed by art galleries, live jazz nightly in O’Doul’s Restaurant & Bar, and an assortment of museum packages.

The Canada Line light rail, recently completed to support Vancouver’s role in the 2010 Winter Olympics, links it with the air-

port, as well as Richmond—and from there, an easy transfer to Steveston (once the busiest port in the world), home of the Britannia Shipyard National Historic Site and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. Ft. Langley, 45 minutes from Vancouver, recreates the era of fur and salmon trading and the Hudson Bay Company, and has an interactive gold-panning station.

Whistler, BC, revels in extreme sports— skiing, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and more—and many rooms are ski-lodge duplexes with loft beds and kitchenettes.

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre examines First Nations heritage with fascinating displays, a film, and guided tour. ~What

to Expect~

Count on delays. It is simply not realistic to assume every plane and train will arrive and depart promptly, particularly if your flight connects through frequently foggy San Francisco. Allow for changing time zones. Factor in that you’ll have the most sun during summer months. Figure on generally cooler weather and pack accordingly.

Bring your passport.

Prepare carefully for an elegant, indulgent holiday of a lifetime. v

Laura Valenzuela, NP-C

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BakersfieldMagazine’s

SLEEP: there’s a reason we call it ‘‘beauty rest’’

A Guide to Health & Beauty Sleep is important to our daily lives...after all, we spend

the evening and can help get your body ready for sleep.

a third of our life asleep. So our sleeping habits are natu-

Try to avoid bright lights, loud noises, or other activities

rally going to affect our health and happiness. Haven’t you

that over-stimulate so close to bedtime. These stimuli im-

ever noticed dark circles under your eyes after a late night?

pede quality sleep because excitement, stress, or anxiety

That’s because our bodies need sleep to perform many of

can make it more difficult to fall asleep, get sound and

the vital, regenerative functions we have come to take for

deep sleep, or remain asleep. Avoid arousing activities

granted; sleep is vital to our health and well-being.

before bedtime like working, paying bills, engaging in

The following tips, created by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), can help you get into a regular sleep pattern,

competitive games, or family problem-solving.

3. Create a sleep-conducive environment.

which will ensure you’re body is running at peak performance.

You want your bedroom to be the perfect environ-

1. Maintain a regular sleep schedule (including weekends).

ment for a sound sleep. The NSF recommends you “de-

Though the temptation to sleep in on Saturday and Sun-

sign your sleep environment to establish the conditions

day is there, try and resist developing this habit.

you need for sleep—cool, quiet, dark, comfortable,

According to the NSF, “Our sleep-wake cycle is regu-

and free of interruptions.” If you need suggestions for

lated by a ‘circadian clock’ in our brain and the body’s

making your room more sleeper-friendly, consider using

need to balance both sleep time and wake time. A regu-

blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, “white noise,”

lar waking time in the morning strengthens the circadian

humidifiers, fans, and other devices.

function and can help with sleep onset at night. That is why it is important to keep a regular bedtime and waketime.” By sleeping in (too) late on the weekends, we’re throwing off that internal clock.

2. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine.

Try taking a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to relaxing music before bed. It helps exponentially when trying to wind down for 1 fds11

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4. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillow.

No-brainer! Make sure your mattress is comfortable and supportive. You can’t get a good night’s rest on a shoddy mattress. Most mattresses tend to have about a 10-year life to them, depending on their quality. Have comfortable pillows and bedding but also make sure they’re free of allergens that might affect you and objects that might cause you >> Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 89

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7. Exercise regularly.

The NSF is adamant about this. “It is best to complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime. In general, exercising regularly makes it easier to fall asleep and contributes to sounder sleep. However, exercising sporadically or right before going to bed will make falling asleep more difficult. In addition to making us more alert, our body temperature rises during exercise, and takes as much as six hours to begin to drop. A cooler body temperature is associated with sleep onset.”

So try and finish that workout at least three hours before you’re ready for bed.

8. Avoid nicotine (e.g. cigarettes, tobacco products).

Used close to bedtime, nicotine can lead to poor sleep. Nicotine is also a stimulant. Smoking before bed makes it more difficult to fall asleep. When smokers go to sleep, they experience withdrawal symptoms from nicotine, which also cause sleep problems. Nicotine can cause difficulty falling asleep, problems waking in the morning, and may also cause nightmares. Difficulty sleeping is just one more reason to quit smoking. And never smoke in bed or when sleepy!

These are some very important tips for helping you get into not only a regular sleep pattern, but to stay in one. The benefits to your health are astronomical when you make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Not only will you be feeling energized, but you’ll be looking great, too.

n

Source: Sleepfoundation.org

food

Switch on the burner, grease up the skillet, or spark up the coals, it’s time to get eating. It’s not hard to eat a meal fit for a king—we’ve done the research for you. Whether you’re searching for juicy new recipes to thrill dinner guests with or looking for a new, exciting place to dine out with family, our Food Section has all the spice and flavor you’ll need.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/MARTINH70

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/SHYMAN

We’ve got reviews, recipes, entertaining tips, and more! This is the place to explore local eateries that have good food and good service, find out which ones cater to your budget and your taste buds, and get culinary inspiration to bring back to your own kitchen. Sumptuous, mouth-watering meals await you whatever your mood— grab your apron and peruse these pages for your favorite recipe.

Bon Appétit.

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 91

QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR

ready for steak?

Have you ever wanted to bring the flavors and aromas from KC Steakhouse into your own kitchen? If you say “no,” we’ll know you’re lying. Everyone loves a great steak!

That’s why we asked the legendary Bakersfield steakhouse to prepare a recipe just for our readers. Naturally, the primary ingredient was steak (but who’s complaining?).

Talented chef Hector Diaz has created a delicious recipe for you to try using fresh, local ingredients like peppers, zucchini, and carrots!

He calls it New York, New York! We call it Delicious, Delicious.

Chef Hector Diaz creates the taste of New York.

New York, New York !

Ingredients

12 oz. center cut New York steak Seasoned salt • Black pepper • Garlic salt Garlic • Butter • Onion • Bell pep pers 1 Cup diced zucchini • 1 Cup dice d yellow squash 1 Cup broccoli • 1 Cup sliced car rot • 1 whole potato Before beginning, place your potato in the oven at 350 degrees and bake for roughly an hour and a half until tender.

While the potato is baking, you can start to julienne the bell peppers and onion. Sauté them in a garlic butter sauce, made from chopped garlic and melted butter, for two minutes. Once tender, season them with black pepper and seasoned salt , and set aside.

To prepare your steamed vegetab les, begin by boiling water in a steamer pot. When you’ve got a rolling boil, add 1 cup of zucchin i, yellow squash, broccoli, and carrot into the pot. Let it steam for approximately five minutes.

Ser ve the season steamed vegetab les with your choice of garlic salt or melted butter.

When your potato is done, cut it into bite-sized pieces, then place in a deep fryer for approximately thre e to four minutes. Drain the potatoes, then season them with blac k pepper and garlic salt.

Next, broil your steak for approxima tely four minutes a side.

Assembling is easy! Steak on the bottom and then dress as you’d like with your vegetables and potatoe s!

This meal is so hearty and filling, you’ll have enough energy to hit the dance floor after dinner for the boot-scootin’ boogie.

Warning: though this dish will make you feel like dancin’, Bakersfield Magazine makes no guarantee you’ll actually be able to do the boot-scootin’ boogie. n

92 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Cuisine: delicious, delicious!

WHAT’S COOKIN’

buon appetito!

By Mike Stepanovich

Déjà vu. It struck me while I was enjoying dinner in Rosa’s Italian Restaurant at the corner of Mount Vernon Avenue and Columbus Street. I don’t know what caused it—our server Kyra, the ambiance, the food, or a combination of them all— but I was reminded of a small restaurant in Florence, Italy.

My wife, Carol, and I are devotees of off-the-beaten-path places, and we had asked the concierge at our Florence hotel where he liked to dine.

He sent us down some back streets to a small, open-air restaurant that had only one other tourist, a Dutch woman studying Italian church architecture. The place was run by a brother and sister—young and energetic with great personalities. The brother was clearly popular in the neighborhood; passersby—the postman, trades people, mothers walking with their children—kept waving at him and yelling, “Ciao!” Aided by his sister’s translation services, I remarked on this phenomenon to him, and he beamed. We were accorded regular status after that.

Only the freshest ingredients will do at Rosa’s Italian Restaurant.

That little neighborhood place was a classic trattoria: a small, familyowned, casual restaurant with exquisite food.

Rosa’s is that, too. Frank and Rose Coughlin opened it on September 9,

Rosa’s wants to get your order right.

The servers know the menu and the many subtle flavors quite well.

1972, in a spot that had been vacant for two years; they’ve been producing wonderfully fresh and imaginative cuisine ever since.

There’s a sense of home at Rosa’s; it’s a cozy place. If you come for lunch, Frank, the patriarch, is usually there to offer a manly greeting. If you come for dinner, likely his and Rose’s daughter, Jill Miller, is there.

Their daughter, Jana Kammeraad, is also highly visible.

Frank will tell you straight out that Jana and Jill own the restaurant now—and Rose. They all are smiling and kind, and you have an immediate sense that you’re going to have a good experience. If the owners don’t impart that to you, the servers will. As a crew, they are among the most consistently friendly and helpful servers I’ve encountered anywhere. I mentioned this to Jill recently and she said, “Well, we do have our days.” I’ve got to think that a bad day at Rosa’s is a pretty darn good day anywhere else. >>

Cuisine: now at’sa italian!

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 93

Cuisine: now at’sa italian!

Take Loren, for example. I was in for lunch not

tency of béarnaise—thick with soft peaks. She de-

long ago with a friend, and we were seated at one of

cided instead to have shrimp scampi ($16.95), but I

Loren’s tables. She bounced right over, was person-

noticed the Alfredo sample wound up complementing

able and helpful with our luncheon choices. Rosa’s

the shrimp so well that it disappeared.

menu is loaded with delightful choices, so I asked

The scampi came on a bed of fettuccine, with seven

Loren about her three favorites. Her first choice was

large shrimp and a butter-garlic sauce, not just garlic

the Portobello mushroom ravioli in a pesto cream

butter. Kyra shared that the sauce also had white wine.

sauce ($8.50). My friend immediately ordered that.

The Brogiolli was sublime. The finesse of the fla-

Frankly, I don’t recall what Loren’s other two fa-

vors—mint and herbs blending with the garlic—had

vorites were because as soon as she said pesto cream

me ooh-ing and ah-ing. The magic of the fresh tomato

sauce I was hooked. I asked if I could get that on some

sauce is that “it’s sautéed with the steak so that the

angel hair pasta with a couple sausages. She beamed,

essence of the steak is imparted to the sauce,” Frank

and said, “Sure!” It didn’t matter that what I ordered

Rosa’s owners Frank and Rose Coughlin ensure quality dining.

wasn’t on the menu; no problem.

and I dined at Rosa’s. Chicken Piccata was one of the

The recipe is a classic. Frank said his mother made

I was mildly surprised when my order arrived

specials that night, and I was tempted, but then she

Brogiolli for family dinners when he was growing up

because the pasta was separate from the sausages,

noticed the Brogiolli, a top sirloin stuffed with herbs,

in Boston in the ’40s (if you listen closely you can still

which came with a chunky marinara sauce. I had

mint leaves, and garlic, and cooked in a fresh tomato

detect a trace of the Boston accent). No doubt Rose—

expected a couple sausages on my angel hair. But it

sauce, accompanied by spaghetti or rigatoni ($17.95).

or Rosa—brought a knowledge of the dish with her

said. “You get all that flavor.”

turned out to be serendipitous because the marinara

from her native Bonita, Italy, a small town about 50

sauce was so fresh and flavorful that I liked it every bit

miles east of Naples. She and Frank, both in their 70s,

as much as the pasta.

still put in a full shift at Rosa’s every day. Frank said,

And the pasta and ravioli! What a treat! Subtlety is

“I’m here seven and a half hours a day, but Rose is here

one of Rosa’s hallmarks; the pesto cream sauce was

longer.” Kyra said Rose works about 10 hours a day,

thick and cheesy with a delightful thread of basil

arriving at 7 a.m., and does most of the prep work.

forming the foundation. Likewise the ravioli’s subtle

“Everything is fresh, homemade,” she said.

mushroom flavors blended with the basil for a heav-

We can thank Boston winters for Rosa’s opening at

enly taste.

all. Frank, who’s half Irish and half Italian, said they

And if you’re looking for pizza, try Rosa’s. A few

came at the urging of Rose’s sister Ida MacMillan, who

months back I dropped in for lunch with my palate set

had an Italian restaurant in Hanford. “The snow was

on pizza. I asked for a small sausage and olive pizza,

up to here,” Frank said, with his hand at waist level.

light sauce, heavy cheese ($13.50). I not only got light

“Ida called in the middle of a blizzard and asked if we

sauce and heavy cheese, but also heavy sausage and

wanted to go into business in Bakersfield. I said, ‘I’ll

heavy olive. It was scrumptious! I remarked to my wait-

call you back in an hour.’ I asked my wife about it; she

ress as I was leaving—taking half the “small” pizza with

said, ‘Do you want to do it?’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ ”

me—that “I ordered light sauce-heavy cheese, and got

The family has restaurants in its blood. Rose’s sister,

light sauce-heavy cheese (which is how I usually order,

Nancy Cristallo, owns Sorella’s Ristorante in southwest

but rarely get on my pizza).” With a twinkle in her eye, a slight smile, and a tilted head, she replied, “Well, that’s the way you ordered it.”

That’s an important distinction at Rosa’s: they want

Rosa’s Brogiolli full-bodied steak dish is flavored with mint and garlic, then crowned with fresh tomato sauce. Oh yeah!

Bakersfield. The MacMillans left Hanford and opened

I suspect it was the mint that intrigued me most, but

in downtown Bakersfield.

Kyra, our server’s, description sealed the deal.

Rosa’s in Pismo Beach in 1988. A cousin owns Joseph’s Rosa’s Italian Restaurant is open Monday through Fri-

to get your order right. The servers know the menu

Carol loves a good Alfredo sauce, but is particular

day for lunch, 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., and nightly for dinner

and know the flavors. That’s how I happened to order

about what constitutes one, so she asked for a sample.

4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. For reservations, call (661) 872-1606.

one of the house specialties, Brogiolli, the night Carol

Kyra gave her a small bowl with a sauce the consis-

Major credit cards accepted. n

94 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way

By Miles Johnson

Picture Perfect Hi. My name is Miles.

I am a compulsive farmers’ market shopper.

Given the opportunity, I could peruse the local markets from dawn ‘til dusk and still find a justification to hunt down that one last good bargain of the day.

I have, it can be said, taken to a rather European approach to food shopping, taking it day by day and allowing my culinary muse to guide my palate’s craving du jour. While I do tend to stock up on canned and dry goods, I find most of my inspiration comes from the daily strolls through Bakersfield’s seasonal and year-round farmers’ markets. In fact, our very geographic location is ripe for the pickin’s (so to speak) and the abundance of fresh-from-the-farm goodness can be a little overwhelming to the uninitiated.

If you’ve never been to a farmers’ market (or even if you’re a “pro”) here are a few tips that will make your shopping experience enjoyable, educational, and just plain fun!

Farmers’ Market 101 1 Sun block! Some markets open at dawn while others don’t begin parlaying their goods until 3 p.m. or later. Tent-covered tables abound but the walk from vendor to vendor can still result in a pretty good burn to the nose and shoulders if left unprotected.

2 Bring small bills. Vendors like not having to break twenties.

3 Bring your own recyclable bags. It’s good for the environment and keeps costs down for both you and the growers.

4 Not all vendors at a farmers’ market are (or need to be) recognized by the California Federation of Certified Farmers’ Markets. It is customary for a sign to disclose the affiliation of a vendor. Also, don’t assume that everything at a farmers’ market is “organic” or “pesticide free.” When in doubt, ask the vendor.

The single best piece of advice I can offer any farmers’ market newbie is to let go any pre-conceived notion about what you might (or want to) find.

This may require a greater degree of culinary flexibility but the pleasant surprises yielded at a morning market often outweigh the lack of advanced menu planning. And while many perennial veggies will grace the tables of vendors the year round, some less-than-frequent finds will make lastminute dish decisions a fun, little adventure. >>

CUISINE : fresh is the best

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 95

Photo by miles johnson

Cuisine: fresh is the best 12 Steps to Victual Recovery: Taking a Zen Approach to Shopping I Admit That I Am Powerless Over Fresh Veggies The fact of the matter is that much of the produce found at a farmers’market isn’t exactly shiny, waxed, or as visually perfect as their grocery store counterparts. And there-in lies the charm as well as the savings. Still, what is lost in aesthetics is more than made up for in flavor, nutrition, and peace of mind. Who could resist the rustic appeal of gnarly tubers with greens still attached; knobby, tree-ripened fleshy fruits; or a tangled wig of fragrant herbs?

Finding the freshest ingredients is only the first step in the journey to comestible gratification.

Aligning the herbaceous acquisitions with the right recipes is the second. On one of my daily trips, I scored a sensational bonanza of botanicals: red and yellow peppers the size of small melons, Thai basil, jalapeños, diminutive eggplant, tree-ripened peaches, zucchini, and tomatoes. I also found a table piled high with farm-fresh eggs. The question then becomes: what to do? Here are a few ideas I came up with but the possibilities are endless.

Vegetable Confetti Souffle Fresh Peach and Basil Vinaigrette

2 sprigs of Thai basil • 2 cloves of fresh garlic Fresh root of ginger • EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) Glass container with air-tight closure The first thing to do is place your EVOO in a large sauté pan (enough to almost fill each glass container you plan to use) over the lowest heat setting you can. Wash your basil and pat dry, remove the skin from a couple cloves of fresh garlic, and thinly slice your ginger root.

Place your garlic cloves and sliced ginger root in the glass container followed by the basil. Be sure to gently “bruise” the basil by pinching it just prior to placing in the container; this will help to release the flavor into the oil. Fill the container with the warmed EVOO and seal. Place in a dark location until the container and contents reach room temperature, then refrigerate. Because olive oil is a mono-saturated fat it must be refrigerated (especially with the addition of the herbs) or it will turn rancid in a matter of days. An added tip is to place the container in a paper bag so as to shield it from any light source while in the fridge. To get a really good flavor into your oil the sealed container should remain undisturbed for at least two weeks. Then, you can strain the oil from the other ingredients or leave them in—just know that the flavor will become stronger over time.

Infused oils are super-simple and make thoughtful hostess, birthday, or holiday gifts.

The typical farmers’ market has loads of greens to choose from which always make for a delightful, refreshing, and nutritious salad. Of course, a simple dressing made with fresh ingredients will compliment any meal.

96 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Photo by miles johnson

Thai Basil, Ginger, and Garlic-Infused Olive Oil

1 ripe peach, skinned and pitted 1 Tbsp. white vinegar of choice (I prefer rice-wine vinegar for this recipe but feel free to experiment) 1/2 Tbsp. sugar 2 Tbsp. EVOO, safflower oil, or even vegetable oil will do 1 healthy sprig of Thai basil, cleaned, stemmed, and finely chopped Place all but the EVOO and basil in a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth.

On medium speed slowly drizzle the EVOO into the mixture until evenly emulsified and smooth. Then, gently stir in the basil. Splash this fabulous dressing over a plate of chilled greens with fresh peach slices, a slice of soft chève, and chopped pecans.

Another thing I was inspired to do was to put those gorgeous eggs to good use. For the recondite-wary cook, an egg souffle might sound too complicated. Trust me when I say: if you can slice, dice, and stir (or “fold”), you can make a souffle your friends will marvel over.

Fresh Peach and Basil Vinaigrette

Farmers’ Market Vegetable Confetti Souffle 1 small chopped onion (about 1/4 cup) 1 fresh garlic clove (yup—more garlic) 3 Tbsp. margarine (not butter!) • 1/4 Cup all-purpose flour 1 Tsp. freshly minced herb of choice 1/4 Tsp. salt • Pinch of pepper 1 Cup milk (2 percent works best) 1 Cup shredded cheese with a low milk content such as cheddar or Swiss 1 Cup finely diced vegetables (like zucchini, eggplant, and red pepper) 3 eggs, separated In a small sauté pan over medium heat, “sweat” the onion, garlic, and margarine until tender and fragrant. Stir in the flour, herbs, salt, and pepper—this makes a roux of sorts.

Add the milk and allow to cook down until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and add in your cheese, stirring until completely melted and blended. Add in your diced veggies, stir until combined, and set aside.

Your eggs should be separated, yolks in one bowl and whites in a mixing bowl. Forkbeat your egg yolks and add to your vegetable mixture until thoroughly combined. In the mixer beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.

Take about one third of the beaten egg whites and gently “fold” it into the vegetable mixture—I recommend using a broad spatula for folding. This helps to “prepare” the vegetable mixture for the remaining egg whites—don’t ask me why—it just works better than doing it all at once. Pour the vegetable mixture over the remaining egg whites and fold the whole concoction together until light and airy. Over-folding will release too much of the captured air so be careful not to overdo it; traces of visible egg whites in the mixture are completely acceptable.

Pour the whole mixture into an un-greased* 1 1/2 quart souffle dish. *Chefs Tip: “Un-greased” is crucial to the success of any souffle. Why? As the mixture heats up in the oven, the trapped air in the egg whites expands driving the mixture up (kinda like a cake). As the mixture bakes, it grabs onto the walls of the dish helping to support and maintain the height of the souffle. Grease doesn’t allow this!

Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until a cake tester (toothpick, bamboo skewer, or a thin knife will do) inserted near the center comes out clean. This dish is best presented from oven to table with as little delay as possible.

Step 12 (yeah, I skipped a few) Having had a esculent awakening, we try to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our culinary affairs.

Not just for the die-hard herbivore, our local markets offer a wonderful variety of products that didn’t come straight from the soil. Fresh-baked goods, pure fruit juices, free-range eggs, and even the occasional hand-crafted item will round out any shopping trip. The farmers’ markets in our area are truly a cornucopia of natural goodness. With unparalleled flavor, not to mention the bucks to be saved, you owe it to yourself, your city, and your local growers to at least give ‘em a try. It’s the next best thing to growing your own vegetables! n Sweet Culinary Dreams, Miles P.S. Visit our website and check out my new blog, A Pinch of This and a Blog of That!

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 97

bottoms up!

Copper cup (manditory!)

this one kicks

2 oz. vodka (Narducci’s uses Smirnoff) 2 squeezes fresh lime Fill to the top with ginger beer (Narducci’s uses Cock & Bull)

By Jason Gutierrez

Narducci’s rocks the Old Town Kern bar scene. But now I know how to give my Narducci’s Night Out an extra little kick.

It’s commonly known that Bakersfield has strong Basque roots—emanating exquisite Basque cuisine—and Narducci’s is no exception. While many may drink the traditional table wine with their meal, my advice is to venture outside your comfort zone...

So there I am, sitting at the bar with a couple of my friends and I’m about to order my usual cocktail and I decide to dive a little deeper into local popular culture. I ask co-owner Julie Shine for Narducci’s signature drink. With a playful smile, she recommends the Moscow Mule.

This is, hands down, Narducci’s claim to fame when it comes to mixed drinks. A sharp, tangy concoction of Vodka, Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer, and fresh lime, this tartly-refreshing cocktail is served in a traditional copper cup—just as it was served when it debuted on the West Coast in the early ‘40s.

It was love at first sip. The chilled copper cup was the perfect introduction for the tang of the drink. Its fusion of flavors teases the taste buds for sure.

If you don’t think this mule will kick, think again! How else do you think it got its name?

I’ve found my new pleasure at Narducci’s. n

98 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Narducci’s Quick Facts

Year Established: 1967 Address: 622 E. 21st Happy Hour: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

drink: Moscow Mule

LIFE IS A CABERNET

rustic gem

By Mike Stepanovich

The first time I went looking for Sagebrush Annie’s, I missed it. This classic mom-and-pop winery/restaurant is in Ventucopa—population 92—literally a wide spot on Highway 33, eight miles south of its junction with Highway 166. Instead I pulled into a place called—I’m not kidding—The Place.

My wife, Carol, and I each enjoyed a slice of homemade blackberry pie ala mode, and asked where the winery was. The owner said, “It’s 300 yards back down the road.” I said the only thing I saw 300 yards back down the road appeared to be an abandoned building. Nope, he said, that’s it. “If a flatbed truck is there, they’re there.”

So back we went, and pulled into the dirt parking area. And sure enough, a flatbed truck was out back, and in the front window of a false-front, weather-beaten structure that defines rustic was an “open” sign. Not sure what to expect, we ventured in. We were greeted by the elegant baroque strains of a Bach Brandenburg Concerto, while from behind the bar an R.C. Gorman painting commanded our attention. A cow’s skull mounted on the

Every wine Larry Hogan has ever made has won a gold medal, an astonishing track record! mented the Old West feel of the place.

Then Larry and Karina Hogan walked in, she in a comfortable, well-worn pair of Levi’s, and Larry with a cowboy hat and massive belt buckle. And it turned out he was a cowboy; he graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in

Photo by taft independent

wall also peered out at us; old cattle brands and a collection of boots ce-

1958 with a degree in animal science, and then “spent too much time in feedlots and cattle pens.” She’s a classically trained violist and pianist.

He asked if we’d like to taste his wine, and served it in Riedel stemware. This place was so full of contradictions, I could scarcely believe it. Then came the

Larry and Karina Hogan offer up memorable dining experiences at Sagebrush Annie’s.

coup de grace: the wine was splendid.

So was the dinner we had on a Friday night a couple weeks later, accompanied by some of that wine. Larry grills steaks over an open red-oak fire out back—no fancy seasoning, just a great cut of meat and smoky oak flavors.

Karina does the rest: soup and salad, your choice of baked or cowboy potatoes or rice pilaf, and a stunning chocolate ganache that is to die for. It’s an hour from our house to Sagebrush Annie’s, but it’s worth the effort to get there. A word >>

wine: unexpected brilliance Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 99

wine: unexpected brilliance to the wise: Saturdays are solidly booked into the foreseeable future, so if you can, go on Friday or Sunday.

But go anytime for the wine, because Larry’s wine is putting the Cuyama Valley on the map. For those of you with doubts consider this: Larry’s wines are arguably winning a higher percentage of gold medals per wine at major international wine competitions than any other wine in California.

“Competitions have put us on the map,” Larry said. “We’ve done very well.”

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He makes two labels: n Stone Pine Estate is produced exclusively from grapes he grows on their estate vineyard. n Sagebrush Annie’s is made from grapes he purchases from neighboring vineyards.

The 2003 Stone Pine Cabernet Sauvignon, a silky, beautifully-balanced wine alive with fruit and subtle nuances, won a double gold medal at the West Coast Wine Competition, and a gold medal at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition. The 2006 Stone Pine Cab won a gold medal and was named best of class at the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. “We beat out some expensive Napa wines at that one,” Larry chuckled.

Sagebrush Annie’s wins golds as frequently as Stone Pine, including at Los Angeles, San Francisco International, Monterey, Florida International, and San Francisco Chronicle Wine competitions. In fact, every wine Larry has ever made has won a gold medal, an astonishing track record. And it’s right in our own backyard.

Like so many discoveries in the wine business, serendipity played a role in the Hogans’ vineyard, and the Cuyama Valley emerging as a great source of wine.

“My approach is if it’s good fruit, don’t tamper with it,”Larry said. He makes only 700 cases a year, picking his grapes and hauling it to Central Coast Wine Services in Santa Maria where he makes and bottles his wines.

He speaks like someone who’s made his living off the land all his life, which, of course, he has. Cattle taught him a lot, but so did living 38 years on the eastern edge of the Cuyama Valley, an area where four counties converge: Kern, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.

His estate vineyard, about a mile from the tasting room/restaurant, is in Ventura County; the tasting room is in Santa Barbara County; the neighbors from whom he buys grapes have their vineyard in Santa Barbara County, and he does most of his shopping in Bakersfield, in Kern

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County. “To get to Bakersfield,” he said, “I go through four counties.”

Larry has always had a love for wine, and when he came to Ventucopa in 1971, no one had vineyards planted in the Cuyama Valley. In fact, it had no history of wine grapes being grown there whatsoever.

But Larry started noticing things, things essential to growing good wine grapes. First he had a sense that where apples grow well, grapes grow well. He noticed a lot of apples in the area.

He noticed that his property had alluvial soils, typically rocky and nutrient-poor. These are usually well drained and force the grapes’ roots deep searching for water. Napa Valley is on alluvial soils.

He noticed that Cuyama Valley’s altitude—nearly 3,000 feet—meant shorter, cooler growing seasons. The vines have bud-break later, the summers are warm, and fall cools off sooner.

“Taking care of things so you don’t have to.”

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100 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Then he noticed the key factor for wine production: 40-degree temperature swings Continued on page 105 >>

Hourglass Kitchen & Bar

Hourglass Kitchen & Bar offers a wide variety of choices to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds. Our popular appetizer, yellow tail tuna tartar served with avocado salsa, is just one of the many favorites. Indulge in gourmet sandwiches and salads, and seafood, pasta, and entrées straight off the grill. All steaks and hamburgers are made with Harris Ranch Beef. Located at the corner of Calloway & Brimhall. Open MonSat 11am-10pm for dining and open for late night cocktails. Also available for large parties & catering. Closed Sundays. (661)679-1977

Wool Growers Restaurant

Come to Wool Growers downtown in Old Kern for a dining experience you won’t forget! We serve delicious Basque cuisine and also have an excellent wine list.

Much more than a culinary experience, within the walls of this restaurant, you are our family and you’ll be served delicious & abundant food in a warm, inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm, 6-9:30pm. Closed Sunday.

620 E. 19th Street. Reservations are accepted by fax, (661)327-4440, and phone, (661)327-9584

The Nines Restaurant at the Marriott

Located inside the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, The Nines is a chic, trendy place to dine serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week for all your culinary desires. Come in and enjoy the delectable flavors from our Executive Chef, from our beautiful Sunday brunch complete with carving stations to our daily lunch specials including Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad for only $10. Nightly dinner specials featuring Prime Rib Tuesdays and Seafood creations on Fridays.

Reservations recommended but not required. Hours are Mon-Sun 6:30am-2pm and 5-10pm. 801 Truxtun Ave. (661)323-1900

Asia Market -Teriyaki Bowl

Asia Market & Teriyaki Bowl carries a wide selection of all Asian foods, including Chinese and Japanese favorites! The best part about our store is that after you have chosen your favorite item, you can either take it home and prepare a meal for yourself, or you can come into our restaurant and have us prepare a delicious meal for you using your selection! We have a full-service store and restaurant, so you can come in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Join us today for excellent food provided by a friendly staff in a great atmosphere! Hours: 9am-9pm daily. 7701 White Lane. (661)837-0982

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 101

The Dining Guide

Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina

Enjoy all the flavors of Mexico at Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina. Select from our large selection of seafood and vegetarian specialties, or choose your favorite classic south-of-the-border dish. Whether you’re in the mood for fajitas, carnitas or just a couple of tacos, Mauricio’s Old World ambiance offers a relaxed atmosphere for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch (Rosedale restaurant). Join us for Happy Hour in our full bar, 3-7pm, daily. We also offer outdoor patio dining and a banquet room for large groups. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10:30pm, Sundays 10am-9:30pm. Two locations to serve you: 10700 Rosedale Hwy. (661)589-5292 and 6401 White Lane (661)837-9570

Big Popy’s Deli

Nothing beats a Big Popy’s pastrami on rye! Unless, of course, you select one of the other wonderful sandwiches prepared fresh at this classic deli. With a cornucopia of fresh ingredients to choose from, you’re bound to find what you’re craving, whether it’s a Turkey Avo-Bacon Melt with fresh turkey, avocado, bacon, dried tomato-garlic aioli, and melted cheddar grilled to perfection on Squaw bread, or the delectably chic Prosciutto sandwich made with thinly-sliced, aged Prosciutto, grilled pears, and Brie cheese. But for the carb-watchers, Big Popy’s boasts tantalizingly rich salads made with salmon, crab, chicken, or tri-tip. Dine in and enjoy the ambiance and an old-time soda in the bottle! Open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm, 1927 20th Street (661)327-3354; and Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Saturday 8am-6pm, 1660 Pine Street (661)869-2636

The Dining Guide

La Costa Mariscos

Grandview Asian Cuisine

Serving the best of the best for over 15 years, La Costa Mariscos offers a wide variety of quality, freshly-prepared Mexican and seafood dishes in a cozy, unique atmosphere. We are a family-oriented restaurant with a fast and friendly attitude.

Come in and enjoy our many delicious entrées made from traditional recipes. Our enchiladas are savory and delicately seasoned and our salads are crisp and light.

Or, if you’re looking to entertain guests, we can bring the food to you; serve La Costa Mariscos from the comfort of your own home as we are available for catering.

We’re ready to satisfy your taste buds daily from 11am-9pm. 716 21st Street.

(661)322-2655

Take a trip to the Far East in this amazing restaurant located on the corner of Ming and Ashe. Try Grandview’s for a delicious variety of Asian cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere. Dine on some of the best Dim Sum Bakersfield has to offer while listening to the gentle splash of a waterfall. Whether you have a craving for fine Asian dining, or desire a place to unwind after work, Grandview Asian Cuisine provides the perfect place to get away. Hours: 10am-9pm daily. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 2217 Ashe Road, Bakersfield. (661)832-2288

Benji’s French Basque

24th Street Café

Benji’s offers something a little different from Bakersfield’s Basque fare. In addition to traditional Basque entrées of lamb, chicken, veal and beef, Benji’s has pan-fried frog legs with garlic lemon sauce, lobster tail, roasted duck, escargots and calf liver.

And the beef isn’t just tri-tip; Benji’s serves a scrumptious filet mignon and New York steak with pepper cognac sauce. All dinners are served with the customary Basque family style set-up. Don’t forget Benji’s specialty soufflés flavored with Grand Marnier, raspberry, chocolate or lemon. Basque family owned and operated for 20 years.

Banquet facilities available. Conveniently located 2 blocks west of Highway 99 at 4001 Rosedale Hwy. Open daily 11:30am-2pm and 5:30-9:30pm except Tuesdays.

Lounge opens 11am. (661)328-0400

With a list of daily specials a mile long, we have been a local favorite for over 20 years and continue bringing Bakersfield the good eats. From our classic homemade soups and comfort foods like meatloaf, to our sandwiches, omelets, and salads, we make everything fresh. Wrap your mouth around the tri-tip pasta with mushrooms, green onions, and a creamy garlic sauce. Or better yet, visit us for breakfast and you won’t forget it! We’ve got banana rum crepes, savory Portobella mushroom omelets, cinnamon apple pancakes, and so much more. But don’t leave without trying our Bloody Mary. It’s good for what ails ‘ya! Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, 6am-2:30pm. 1415 24th Street. (661)323-8801

Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar

Valentien...French cuisine with California fusion. The atmosphere at Valentien is unique; both laid back and elegant. Every dining experience is different with our ever-changing menu. Valentien offers something for everyone’s palate, from seafood, poultry, beef and exotic game to vegetarian options. Showcasing seasonal fresh and local produce, we utilize the bountiful agriculture that Kern County farms are known for. As often as possible our chefs use organic ingredients. We are constantly seeking out the freshest products available. For example, we often will have our fish flown in from Hawaii. No matter the origin, we always strive for a less than 24 hour sea to plate turnaround. Valentien also serves only the highest grade beef and premium meats and poultry. We feature an extensive wine list primarily focusing on boutique and artisan wines. Call for more information about our frequent wine tastings and other upcoming events. Valentien…a dining experience like no other in Bakersfield. Hours: Lunch Tue-Fri 11:30am-2pm Dinner Tue-Sat 5-9:30pm. Wine bar open until midnight on Friday & Saturday. All major credit cards accepted. Reservations recommended but not required. 3310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160 (661)864-0397

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Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe

Celebrating its 23rd anniversary, this fast casual restaurant sets the standard for Tex-Mex in Bakersfield. “Cowboy Grub” is the description for slow roasted pit beef, mesquite smoked tri-tip, garlic chicken, multiple salads including the most popular taco salad. Chocolate cake nobody leaves without. “This ain’t no refried bean kinda joint.” Hours Mon-Sat 11am to 8pm. Closed Sundays. 1710 Oak St. www.jakestexmex.com (661)322-6380

El Portal West

We invite you to enjoy our newest Mexican Grill and Cantina, El Portal West. We offer a great selection of appetizers, soups & salads, seafood, and our specialties are chicken, steak and shrimp fajitas. Our full service bar features the best margaritas in town! Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3-7pm (bar only), Lunch specials everyday, 11am-2pm. Fabulous Sunday Brunch, 10am-3pm, reservations accepted. 1100 Calloway Drive. (661)829-2737

Frugatti’s Italian Wood-Fired Oven

Real Italian by Real Italians! Whether dining in or al fresco on our new patio, come in and enjoy our new menu that’s bursting with flavor for lunch, dinner or just dessert. You’ll love our steaks.

We use only the highest quality Certified Angus Brand® Beef. You’ll also love our chicken, seafood and pizzas cooked in our imported Italian wood-burning oven. We also offer a wide selection of pasta dishes and other Italian favorites. For dessert try our homemade New York cheesecakes or Tiramisu. Come experience our friendly atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 11:30am-10pm, Sunday 11:30am-9pm. All major credit cards accepted. 600 Coffee Rd., corner of Truxtun and Coffee. frugattis.com (661)836-2000

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The Dining Guide

T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar

Every city and town in America has a classic restaurant. A restaurant that combines ambiance, great food, tradition and history. T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar is that restaurant for Bakersfield. It is part of the Haberfelde complex, located in the oldest building in downtown Bakersfield. T.L. Maxwell’s has an award-winning wine list that matches the traditional full menu and the creative specials that are offered for lunch and dinner. Owners Terry and Paula Maxwell are both locals. So go where the locals go (and lots of out-of-towners): T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar. Banquet facility available. Most major credit cards accepted. Hours: Tue-Fri 11:30am-1:30pm and 5:30-8:30pm, Saturday 5:30-9:30pm. Closed Sun-Mon. 1421 17th Place (between 17th and 18th streets) on the east side of Chester. (661)323-6889

T-Bones Ranch House

Yee-Haw! Bakersfield’s favorite steakhouse is now serving breakfast! All the flavors you love at lunch and dinner are available for early risers! For the adventurous buckaroo, the chicken fried steak will leave you very satisfied. It’s the best in Bakersfield and is served with all of your favorite sides. Or wrangle up one of our Iron Skillets, loaded with your choice of meat, eggs, and hashbrowns! And come back to enjoy the rest of our extensive menu for lunch or dinner. But be sure and try our homemade Chocolate Gravy before you leave—it’s great on our biscuits! Breakfast 6am-2pm Mon-Sun. Lunch 10:30-am-2pm Mon-Sun. Dinner hours are MonSun 4pm-close. 8020 District Blvd. TbonesRanchHouse.com (661)398-1300

The Orchid

The Dining Guide

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of traditional Thai flavors and modern twists, The Orchid is the place to try. With mouthwatering specialty dishes like Red Curry Rib-Eye Steak and our Lamb Chop with Spicy Mango Sauce, we dare you to find a restaurant offering more pow for your buck. We offer take-out and catering services, but our elegant dining room is perfect for a lunch meeting or an intimate night out—and you should get there early to find a seat by the soothing waterfall!

Daily lunch specials include many classic Thai entrées like Panang Curry and Crunchy Cashew stir fry, a sweet and spicy dish made with onions, bell peppers, water chestnuts, and roasted cashews. Join us Mon-Thu from 11am-10pm or Fri & Sat from 11am-11pm. 9500 Brimhall Road. (661)587-8900

Café Med

For a cozy, intimate setting and fine dining with a unique atmosphere, Café Med is the place to go. Choose a selection from our extensive menu and your taste buds will surely be satisfied. Start off with an appetizer-perhaps you might try our Grilled Shrimp Cocktail or Hummus with Lamb Meat-a house specialty. Then choose from a variety of entrées including Mediterranean salads, steaks or even pasta. An excellent dish to try is our Fisherman’s Pasta-a mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams & the catch of the day sautéed in a tomato, basil and mushroom cream sauce. Come by Café Med today for a delicious variety and friendly service. Open 7 days a week 11am-close. Live music on Friday & Saturday nights. Reservations accepted.

Visa, MC, AE, DC. 4809 Stockdale Hwy. cafemedrestaurant.com. (661)834-4433

Luigi’s Restaurant & Italian Delicatessen

Enjoy an old world Italian delicatessen since 1910 with over 200 wines to complement your lunch. From sandwiches to Pasta Bolognese, you’re sure to find flavorful choices to make everyone happy! Don’t forget to shop the gourmet delicatessen for unique gift ideas, wine and authentic foods. Restaurant Hours: Tue-Sat 11am2:30pm, Deli Hours: Tue-Sat 8am-4pm. 725 East 19th Street. shopluigis.com (661)322-0926

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Ceasar’s Deli

A Bakersfield tradition since 1970, Caesar’s Italian Delicatessens have been serving fine Italian food for over 35 years. Our family owned Delis serve quality Sandwiches, Soups, and Salads. We are a full service deli and carry a wide variety of cheeses, meats, and specialty items. We have a large variety of Salads including our famous Pickled Tongue. Pastas are prepared in house using sauces from Nonna’s (grandma’s) Old Italian Recipes. Come in and pick up a tray to take home. Catering is also available for your next event, small office parties, large events & weddings, and includes Party Trays, Pastas, Sandwiches, Tri-Tip Deep Pit Beef, Chicken, or just Appetizers. Ask for a catering menu. 2828 Niles St. (East Bakersfield) (661)873-0270, or 9500 Brimhall Rd. #304 (Rosedale area) (661)588-7004

Que Pasa

Our fantastic menu is now bursting with delicious “ensaladas” for your summertime dining. Explore our menu of traditional Mexican favorites infused with fresh flavors and try the tantalizing Cabo Ahi-Tuna salad or the Red-Chile Rubbed Grilled Chicken salad, covered in a Red-Chile orange vinaigrette, queso fresco, roasted corn relish, and almonds. And nothing quenches your thirst like a classic, hand-made margarita.

To ensure the “perfect margarita,” we use only the highest quality ingredients, like 100 percent agave tequilas and our special agave nectar. Valley Plaza Location, 2701 Ming Ave # 219, 832-5011. Hours: Mon-Thu 10:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sunday 10:30am-9pm. Marketplace Location, 9000 Ming Ave # F4, 664-1400. Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm.

Hungry Hunter

Yes, we have the best prime rib in town, but we’re so much more than a great steakhouse. Come in for lunch and enjoy our fresh ground 1/2lb. Angus Burgers or a homemade infused salmon burger. We’ve got soups and salads as well to complement our many entrées. Our dinner menu is just as varied with Australian lobster tails and fettuccine alfredo. Our delicious steaks are hand cut to ensure the freshest steak possible, so wrap your mouth around our black & bleu ribeye, or a tender filet mignon. We offer a great wine list that is sure to pair with any meal.

Locally owned and operated. Happy hour: Mon-Fri, 2-6pm, Hours: Mon-Fri, Lunch 11:30am-3pm, Dinner 3-10pm, Saturdays 4:30-10pm, Sundays 12-9pm.

3580 Rosedale Hwy. hungryhuntersteakhouse.com (661)328-0580

Sandrini’s

Looking for a restaurant with quality food and service with a bar that has a Cheers-like atmosphere in downtown Bakersfield? Walk down our stairs and that’s what you’ll find.

Come for lunch or dinner and choose from an assortment of delectable Italian and Basque dishes, all prepared in house with the freshest ingredients. Come for drinks and find an excellent wine list with an exceptional selection of more than 110 beers and 80 premium whiskeys to satisfy your palate. Live entertainment every night. Family style dinners every Sunday. Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 5-9pm, Bar Mon-Fri 11am-close, Sat-Sun 5pm-close. Reservations Accepted. All major credit cards accepted. 1918 Eye St. (661)322-8900

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wine: unexpected brilliance

Larry Hogan’s wine-making approach is very simple: “if it’s good fruit, don’t tamper with it.”

between summer highs and lows. This is critical for acid production in the grapes, because acid is a critical component in wine.

He started asking various viticulturists about planting vineyards on his place—how would the grapes do—but the answer was always the same: no one had a clue. No one had ever done it before. He planted a few vines, but that only whetted his appetite more. Finally, one consultant told him, “You’ll never know until you plant a commercial-size vineyard.”

So, in 1982, he became the first person to plant a vineyard in Cuyama Valley. He began with chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and cabernet sauvignon. The chardonnay and sauvi-

Uricchio’s Trattoria

Nestled in the heart of Downtown in the historical Haberfelde Building. Steaks, chops, seafood, and classic Italian dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list, have made Uricchio’s a mainstay for over a decade. Uricchio’s San Francisco style setting is family owned and operated, and the perfect spot for a business lunch, or a romantic dining experience. After your meal save room for the fabulous desserts from LaMousse of Beverly Hills. Inquire about our Monday Prix fixe 3 Course Meal (available thru October ‘09). Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Thu 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Reservations recommended, lunch reservations for large groups only. 1400 17th St. Downtown. (661)326-8870

gnon blanc were disappointments: early bloomers, they were often susceptible to frost.

But the cabernet, which has later bud-break, wasn’t affected, and the moderate summer and fall temperatures ripened the grapes evenly.

Tony Austin, the founding winemaker at Firestone and now with Sonoma Coast Vineyards, came to see the vineyards some years back.

“He told me, ‘Larry, there’s never been a cabernet in Santa Barbara County that can touch this.’ ” Hogan said.

The chardonnay and sauvignon blanc were quickly replaced with more cabernet, and some merlot and zinfandel. His vineyard now comprises 70 acres.

Rhone varietals are also finding a home in Cuyama Valley. “This is a great area for Bordeaux and Rhone varietals,” Larry said. “They’re balanced and harmonious, and that’s what we aim for in our wines.”

And the experience of visiting Sagebrush Annie’s, trying the wines, enjoying dinner, sharing their experience is one that will keep you coming back.

For more on the Hogans, go to sagebrushannies.com, or call (661) 766-2319. n

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Mike Stepanovich is an award-winning journalist who has been writing his Life is a Cabernet wine column since 1985, and reviewing restaurants for Bakersfield Magazine since 1997. Stepanovich has taught wine and food pairing classes for many years, and teaches a wine appreciation and history class for California State University, Bakersfield. He began judging wines in 1987, and now judges at major international wine competitions throughout the United States.

A home winemaker, Stepanovich resides with his wife, Carol, in Bakersfield.

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community partners Whether it’s with an outstretched hand or an open heart, Bakersfield loves to support the nonprofit organizations in our community. And Bakersfield Magazine is no exception. We are proud to be a part of or support each of the worthy charities you discover in the following pages.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County

DODGEBALL The Tournament

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801 Niles Street Bakersfield, CA 93305 To Register or For More Information Call

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www.bgclubsofkerncounty.org

Sponsored in part by:

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Bakersfield association of retarded citizens

This year, instead of the same old, drab holiday happenings, why not immerse yourself in the winter wonderland we all know

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and love: BARC’s Magical Forest.

Once again, Bakersfield Association of Retarded Citizens is hosting this extravaganza of fun, food, family, and, of course, Santa.

There is one big change from last year, and that’s the location.

While Magical Forest has, in years past, been perched atop the Stockdale Towers’ parking garage, 2009’s event will take place on the BARC campus. This is phenomenal news for BARC staff, clients, and the public.

With the event taking place on BARC grounds, everyone on campus can get involved in the production. So while each Magical Forest sees the coming together of many of the departments under BARC’s roof (this year is no exception), the convenience of having the event at BARC is especially exciting as it will not only cut costs for the organization, but allow so many clients who were previously unable to attend watch the magic happen before their eyes.

“From our Woodshop and Print Shop to Packaging and Maintenance, everyone is in on the action,” explained Linda Hartman, director of the BARC Foundation.

The construction of the different-themed sets has been underway all year long and that has meant a lot of work for the artists in the Woodshop. And that’s good news!

“These clients are amazing,” said Woodshop Manager Gary Lack. “All the designs for the sets have come from their minds.

We would hand them a picture or give them an idea of what we

THIS YEAR, clients who were previously unable to attend WILL watch the magic happen before their eyes. wanted, and they would build something amazing. They’re very passionate about their work.”

That’s part of the reason why BARC is such an amazing organization. It’s putting people to work who want to work.

But don’t think that the Woodshop is only around to build sets for Magical Forest. They’re in charge of breaking down pallets for IKEA and can do custom wood-working.

“I’m hoping that once people see the quality work these clients do, they’ll think of BARC for any of their woodworking needs,” Hartman added. Clients can build anything from sheds, playhouses, dog houses, and miniature models of homes. BARC hopes to develop this idea into full-time work for their Woodshop clients. The specialized sets they’ve designed for Magical Forest will wow children of all ages—all of them custom-built and all of them holiday-inspired. Well, except for the dinosaurs. That’s right...dinosaurs. You’ll have to see it to believe it!

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BARC’s Packaging and Print Shop are involved heavily as well, the latter of which does all the signage for Magical Forest as well as customized clothing orders, signs for the Kern County Fair, and more. The Packaging department constructs BARC’s Marshmallow Shooters, which are always big sellers at Magical Forest, but they’re also the biggest department on campus.

Janelle Bishop Not only do BARC clients sort pallets of cardboard boxes to be recycled or reused, they de-case pallets of outdated soda and juice from local distributors like Bolthouse Farms, and help label packages for major products before they’re shipped.

BARC has almost 600 clients with varying disabilities.

“Many people don’t realize that BARC needs funding,” Hartman elaborated. “They think we are completely funded by clients and the state, but the truth is that 56 percent of our funding comes from the industries we have on campus. Only 1 percent comes from donations.”

By attending Magical Forest, you can support this outstanding organization that just so happens to be celebrating its 60th anniversary!

You’ll also be able to ride the Grinch-mobile and take a stroll through a forest of Christmas trees, each wonderfully decorated by BARC clients, while you munch on holiday snacks.

More importantly, you’ll get the chance to tour the BARC campus and get some more information on what this nonprofit does and how they help our community.

Magical Forest runs from December 4th to the 27th.

They are closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. As you can imagine, it takes a large support staff to run this event so BARC is in need of volunteers to help. If you’d like more information, please contact BARC at (661) 834-2272 or visit their campus at 2240 S. Union Avenue. n

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BE A SUPERHERO! Rescue a Friend for Life!

October is National

Adopt-A-Dog Month During October, we encourage you to visit your local shelter or rescue group, meet potential side-kicks and discover the many super-sized benefits of having a dog: happiness, companionship, improved physical & emotional health, and devoted love.

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NEW LOCATION! BARC CAMPUS

Santa’s Secret Shoppe • Forest of Sights & Sounds Santa at the North Pole • Food • Grinch Mobile and Train Rides • Photos Live Entertainment • Over 30 Crafters

December 4th-27th Mon-Fri: 6-9pm • Sat-Sun: 5-9pm Admission: Adults $8.00 • Seniors $6.00 Children 6-12 $4.00 • Children 5 & under FREE Call 834-2272 for Ticket Locations NEW LOCATION! – BARC CAMPUS 2240 S. Union Ave. 1 Block North of White Lane

Closed Eve & mas Day t s i r h C stmas Chri

All proceeds stay in Kern County and benefit BARC and other nonprofit agencies serving local families.

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Magical F orest ...Make it a

(L to R)

First 50 Participants get a FREE “Ride for the Red” Long Sleeve T-Shirt

self esteem council of bakersfield

the bright side

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outlook on life.

That’s why the Self Esteem Council’s Teen Enrichment Program has such an impact on our community year after year.

First developed in 1994 by a small team of concerned mothers, the Self Esteem Council quickly grew into an organization that seeks to empower, educate, and enrich the lives of young people in Bakersfield.

Ruth Klein, president and board member, first broached the idea of starting a nonprofit while talking with a friend about the teen pregnancy rates at local high schools.

“At the time, our kids were in high school and doing well, as were the children of our friends. We asked ourselves what we did right to help them be successful and give them the confidence to make the right decisions. Then we thought to ourselves, what happens to those teens without a team behind them; without the opportunities our children had?”

That’s when Klein, along with long-time friends Ann Hansen, Jeanne Young, and Mary Richardson banded together to create a program that would seek out those teens, especially teenage girls who needed encouragement, and help them reach their potential.

The Self Esteem Council teams up with five area high schools to offer the Teen Enrichment Program to young women needing a positive role model. The program is approved by the schools’ administration and each teen has parental permission to attend.

“They could be girls who don’t have sufficient support from home or girls who are simply too shy to engage in school,” Hansen explained. “But we want them to see there are opportunities available to

them...that they can rise above challenges.”

The program takes place over the course of five months. Once a month, the group of five mentors will host an hour-and-a-halflong lunch with selected students and, each session, teach them social skills; goal setting; personal responsibility; rising above adversity; and developing a network of people who can help them succeed in life.

And a lunch is served each session—something the students look forward to.

“In all, we’re with the girls less than 10 hours, but we see the impact from the first meeting,” said Young, who penned the Teen Enrichment Program’s manual.

The girls immediately begin to show more confidence as they engage in school and look toward a future they never thought possible.

“We want to make a difference in a girl’s life and show them how they can be happy and successful,” Hansen elaborated. That can mean college, sports, or community activities.

The Self Esteem Council is small, but their mission is mighty.

“The only thing keeping us from expanding to more high schools and helping the rest of Kern County is the number of mentors we have,” Klein explained. Last year, the Self Esteem Council had 15 mentors to visit area high schools, but it needs more.

And while it costs only $75 per student per semester, donations are always needed.

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Best Poker Hand Wins Grand Prize

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Sponsored by: $25 Entry Fee (Per Person, Pilot, or Co-Pilot) • $20 Pre-Registration Includes: Lunch, Live Band, Raffle Ticket, and Long Sleeve T-Shirt (First 50 Registrants) For more information please call the Kern Chapter at 661-324-6427 FIELD MAG RS

Mary Richardson Ann Hansen Ruth Klein Jeanne Young

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Jill Harlander press all of our gratitude during our anniversary production in a tribute to our veterans, our armed forces, our country, and our flag,” added Rick Pierucci, another founding member, who noted how grateful ACAP was to have David Voss

of Jesus Shack and Evelyn Coyle of CSUB help coordinate the talent search.

We at Bakersfield Magazine wanted to give you an exclusive look into the lives of these patriotic vocalists.

Bakersfield native Jill Harlander has a special connection to the tribute at which she will be performing: she is a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving in active duty as a Patriot Missile crewmember, and then in reserve status, from 1994-2002. As a result, she knows firsthand the perils faced and sacrifices made by each of the honorees being paid homage in this salute.

Jill, a member of a musical family in Bakersfield, has been singing since age four.

Elissia Shaney Miller She has performed our National Anthem for the Blaze and other sporting events and is a member of the prominent Valley Baptist Church Praise Choir.

“No matter what your beliefs are regarding the war on terror, we all need to sup-

port our brothers, sisters, family, friends, and neighbors serving our country,” Jill said. “If it were not for our veterans and our troops today, we would not have the right to be free. The next time you see a soldier, thank him or her and show your support and encouragement for all that they do for us.”

Elissia Shaney Miller is a 19-year-old student currently attending Bakersfield College. Her career goal is to pursue a teaching credential and give back to the community by providing education to others in the next generations.

Elissia started singing at her church when she was 16, with gospel music soon becoming her favorite genre and jazz being a close second. In addition to singing at various churches throughout our city, she has had the honor, as a member of the Bakersfield Youth Jazz Orchestra, of opening for such legendary performers as jazz guitarist Kenny Burrell and Bakersfield’s Grover Washington Tribute Band.

“I want to sing for the veterans and all the military personnel as a humble token of my gratitude for their service to our country with dignity, strength, and honor.

I thank God for all of them and know that He will protect and watch over all of these soldiers who exemplify a brave, courageous, and patriotic character.”

With an educational background in music, consisting of a bachelor’s degree from Grand Canyon University and a master’s from USC, Scott Neese brings a unique Continued on page 117 >>

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intends to mark the fifth anniversary of their patriotic entertainment show with an extraordinary showcase of talented local performers, a wide range of patriotic songs, stirring and emotional videos, and dignified salutes to our active-duty troops and veterans throughout Kern County!

On November 7, ACAP will not only extended the length of the program, held at The Crystal Palace, but the size of the live audience as well. The show will be broadcast live on KGET-TV 17 and contain two-and-a-half hours of entertainment, all simulcast to and from the historic Fox Theater.

“It is the first time a live simulcast and broadcast of this nature has ever been attempted in Bakersfield and everyone is excited to push the envelope while thanking all of our honored guests,” Joel Nord, a founding member of ACAP, explained.

Furthermore, this is the second year ACAP has opened up its production to include a local search for the best singers in Kern County. So over the past six months, three rounds of intense auditions have culminated in the selection of five winners.

“Our mission was to once again find talented and patriotic vocalists from Kern County to showcase their talent and ex-

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and overwhelming resume of experience in theater, both as a performer (playing lead roles in Pirates of Penzance and My Fair Lady) and as a director (She Loves Me, Kiss Me Kate, and Into the Woods).

Scott is currently the worship minister at Christ’s Church of the Valley and the adjunct drama professor at Bakersfield Christian High School and enjoys directing theater and developing new opportunities for creative artists at both of these institutions.

“I am excited about being a part of this be-

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cause I believe that the songs of freedom that make our country great are a bridge to the past. Many patriotic songs are no longer being taught in the public schools and are being forgotten by current generations. This show strives to connect all of us to the principles that this country was founded on, and I hope that in some small way, my performance will give back to those who have protected our freedom and kept America strong.”

Holly Smith, at the age of 15 is the youngest performer to ever appear on the Crystal Palace stage. Born and raised in Bakersfield, this honor student from Frontier High was enrolled in performing arts classes and started vocal lessons at the early age of four. She has a plethora of experience in performance arts, ranging from stage experience at the Kern County Fair, Kids Fest, and film festivals to enrollment at the Stars School of Fine Arts, acting in several commercials, and selected as a cast member of Annie at the Stars Dinner Theater. One of her proudest accomplishments is having been awarded seven gold and two silver medals at the World Championship of Performing Arts, where she represented the United States twice, in the 8- and 10-year-old age groups. She has also been honored to sing our National Anthem at Blaze, Jam, and Condors games this year.

“It will be an honor to perform for the >>

BAKE

Scott Neese

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 117

armed forces at the Crystal Palace on the same stage where so many great singers have stood before,” she said. “The troops and their families deserve so much for defending this great country and making me feel safe. I hope this show will let them know how grateful I am for their selfless sacrifices.”

Ross Vercammen, a 26-year-old native of Bakersfield, has been singing in public forums since the age of seven and will be the only star returning from last year’s performers. Ross credits his singing capabilities to an innate gift he feels he has been blessed with. Although he has never had structured singing lessons, he is quick to give enormous thanks to his parents for providing him with the guidance and direction he needed to hone his vocal talents into masterful singing engagements.

Vercammen has sung, directed, and had solo performances with his church’s talented choir, as well as helping and tutoring others wanting to join in vocalizing during Sunday services. Since last year’s ACAP performance, he has received a multitude of offers to perform both locally, throughout California, and across the country. Ross considers this opportunity to once again sing live at

Holly Smith

Ross Vercammen The production includes a live auction of sports and entertainment memorabilia.

So get your tickets now, since this event always sells out quickly!

For information on any premier seating or sponsorships, please call Ray Miller (661) 330-0777, Dave Plivelich (661) 615-1150, or the ACAP office (661) 663-9765. To inquire about seats for veterans, their families, and friends, please call Karen Norton (661) 588-6727.

Be sure to catch the finalists live on KGET 17’s News at Sunrise and KUZZ radio, and don’t forget to tune in to KGET on November 7th from 5:30-8:00 p.m. to watch this wonderful event. n

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Keep Old Glory Flying an honor and hopes that his performance will touch the lives of the many special guests this program salutes.

This year, once again, a portion of the ticket sales and all of the auction proceeds from this wonderful event benefit The Fisher House Foundation, a national nonprofit that provides assistance to families of all wounded soldiers during their treatment, hospitalization, and rehabilitation by providing unlimited shelter, food, and clothing.

In attendance will be Congressman Kevin McCarthy, who was an original supporter of ACAP’s production; Assembly members Jean Fuller and Danny Gilmore; Supervisor Michael Rubio; and many more local dignitaries.

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“In the last six years, we really started tapping into the Chamber, which created a wealth of opportunities for us. The Chamber provides a direct conduit, putting businesses in touch with each other as well as with local, state, and federal issues and decisionmakers - people with whom you might not otherwise have such close contact.”

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Alternatives to Layoffs—Good For Everyone!

Relocation on your own terms made decorations and forget can be a great thing. Actually, about having fancy, expensive relocation—even if it isn’t at festivities. Instead of providing your instigation—can still be catered hot meals at meetings, a good thing. However, it may cutting down to just coffee and take you a bit longer to warm up water can add up to a considerto the idea! able savings over time. If your Unfortunately, these days company is experiencing rising many people are suddenly findpaper costs, consider “going ing themselves having to regreen” by distributing inforlocate to new jobs and/or new mation through e-mails or an situations as companies grapple electronic “share-point.” with the economy and reorgaNancy Chaffin, Vice President nize in an effort to adjust to new of Human Resources at The Baworkplace realities. However, By Holly Culhane, SPHR kersfield Californian, says, “We this may actually be an opportuasked our employees to submit nity for businesses to streamline their operations ideas for cost cutting in a series of employee and become more efficient without necessarily meetings and communications. We received an downsizing indiscriminately. New challenges, incredibly positive response of ingenious costwhile painful and disheartening at the outset, cutting and revenue-generating ideas, as well as can evolve into positive opportunities for as- suggestions to increase operational efficiencies. sociations, as well as for the persons affected A number of these ideas were implemented imwithin that organization. Often companies, mediately and others are still being evaluated. and individuals, prove their resiliency and find While we ultimately decided to decrease our powerful reserves of determination never before workforce, we started with a voluntary buyout realized, managing to transform a negative situ- program allowing employees to make their ation into a positive direction for the future. own personal and professional choices. We also Actually, experts caution companies to con- implemented temporary across-the-board pay sider all other options first, resorting to layoffs cuts and suspension of 401(k) contributions. All only as a last option. According to the article employees, not just managers, actively scrutinize “Some Companies Stay Firm to No-Layoffs expenses and look for alternatives.”

Pledge” in a January 2009 NPR story, longChaffin continued, “Many of our employees term, consistently successful companies tend are facing the challenge by learning new jobs to explore other options in tough economies and taking on expanded roles. Despite the chaland preserve their workforce, with some lenges of the current economy, we have expericompanies even implementing “no-layoffs enced a heightened sense of creativity, ingenupledges.” Leadership at these organizations cite ity, inspiration, and business knowledge.” a number of reasons for the policy, including Most companies fighting to retain employees fairness, long-term goals, and consistency to and avoid layoffs altogether cite re-training of customers. They offer a number of other op- employees as an excellent tool and a “win-win” tions to layoffs, including such things as early for everyone. Workers who are open to stepretirement packages, hiring freezes, four-day ping outside their comfort zone and learning workweeks, unpaid vacations, forced shutdowns new skills suddenly increase their value as an during holidays (a particularly popular idea employee, while allowing the organization to with many employees), temporary freezing of redistribute the workforce as necessary to main401ks, and the ever-so-important retraining for tain customer service and company integrity. Is other company positions. this easy and comfortable? Certainly not, but the Do these options impact employees? You bet! benefits are substantial—for both the company Obviously income may be decreased somewhat, and the individuals involved. but the savings is distributed fairly and all emLaurie Bienstock of Watson Wyatt says in the ployees who want to remain employed by the aforementioned NPR story, “although avoidcompany may do so. Although there may be ing layoffs is humane, it’s not really done out a financial hit, there are also some significant of pure corporate altruism. It can save money side benefits such as the ability to spend holiday because hiring new talent is three times more extime and/or extra vacation time with family and pensive than retaining veterans and an existing friends. Of course the most important result of workforce is extremely valuable. Additionally, these options is a sense of loyalty all company sustaining the payroll even when it’s painful members feel as, again, “fairness” is considered ensures continuity with customer service.” and everyone is treated as a valuable associate So, if you’re contemplating layoffs—think and an integral part of the team. again. It may not be in the interest of the comAdditional cost savings can be realized when pany, and it definitely is not going to benefit the organizations reduce or eliminate travel, ca- employees, including both those directly and tered meetings, and/or elaborate celebrations. indirectly involved.

Not that celebrations aren’t important, but they can be done simply with a minimum of cost. Contact Holly Culhane of PAS Associates for Consider having a potluck with simple, hand- your human resource needs, (661) 631-2165.

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Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Parish

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School:

Pre-school 323-9906

323-3108 716-1002 327-0712 322-7200 716-1005 327-7741

Monsignor Michael R. Braun

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

First Assembly of God Pastor James Lair

A newly established Catholic parish in Northwest Bakersfield. Masses are being held at Frontier High School Allen Rd. & Kratzmeyer Rd. g Sundays g 8:45am & 10:30am All Are Welcome!

Sunday Services: 8:15am, 10:45am and 5:30pm.

Sunday School: 9:45am – All Ages Wed. Night: Family Dinner 5:306:30pm. Classes for all ages 7pm.

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Parish office: 661-587-3626 Pastor: Fr. Perry Kavookjian 12803 Montbatten Place

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Mass Schedule Saturday 8:00 a.m. (Honoring Mary) 5:00 p.m. (Vigil-English) 7:30 p.m. (Vietnamese) Sunday 6:30 a.m. NEW TIME (English) 8:00 a.m. NEW TIME (Family) 10:00 a.m. (Family), 11:30 a.m. (Latin) 5:00 p.m. (Spanish), 7:00 p.m. (English)

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124 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

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PARISH SCHOOL CELEBRATING OUR 100TH YEAR 1910 to 2010

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BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

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Co-Pastor: Senior Pastor: Duane Meadors Ron Roberson 912 New Stine Rd. (661)836-0272 www.HGCBakersfield.com

Paula Maharrey, Earlene Johnson & Marlene Terrell

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M.O.V.E. Breakfast

The air was filled with the sound of music performed by the M.O.V.E. Bakersfield Chapter Singers during a breakfast hosted by Hodel’s, benefiting this great program at BARC. Providing education and training for people with mobility challenges, M.O.V.E. inspired many generous Kern citizens to gather and share their triumphant stories over a tasty meal.

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Chamber Summer Social

There was a whole lotta networking going on at the Kern County Museum during the annual Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Summer Social. Rockin’ music performed by No Limits set the mood and complemented the Rock ‘n’ Roll theme, as people schmoozed, sipped refreshing beverages, and purchased raffle tickets for a chance to win some fun prizes.

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126 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Hannah, Tristan & Todd Egland

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BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

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CHATTER

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Jim Zervis, Harvey Hall, Mike Hart & Marilyn Adams George

Blake & Dale Fowler

Greek Food Festival

Where Greek people meet to eat! The 37th Annual Greek Food Festival was alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of all things Greek.

Held behind St. George’s on Truxtun Avenue, this two-day event kept the senses entertained with classic Greek music, lines of energetic dancers, and plates heaped with delicious Greek goodness. Opa!

Michelle Buxton & Kenny Cotton

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People from all over Kern gathered to celebrate the year’s single biggest social event! Unending samples of the area’s finest food, paired with tastings of the largest variety of beer and wine in one place, and capped off with live music between 5 different stages made for an evening everyone will be talking about for months to come. Proceeds benefit C.A.R.E.

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Noel Leon & Stephanie Berlanga

Village Fest

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Robert Gamez & Wes Hicks

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Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 127

~Kern’s Basque Tradition since 1945 ~ NEVER FROZEN, THEN BAKED, OR TRUCKED LONG DISTANCES. FIND US IN YOUR FAVORITE GROCERY STORE OR DELI TODAY!

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John Bush & Mike Horack

Chris Corum, Matt Frields, & Tim McLey

CASA Golf Tournament

Ted McCurdy & Jim Gravatt

Fore! CASA had a wonderful turnout at their annual golf tournament held at Seven Oaks Country Club. Golfers and guests made their way around the course showing their support for this great local charity and participated in fun contests including the longest drive and a putting challenge. After a great round, folks were treated to a wonderful dinner and silent auction.

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BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

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Jack Daniels Signature Dinner

Hosted by The Petroleum Club and Imbibe Wine Bar, this magnificent event involved a guided whiskey tasting with Jack Daniels Master Taster Jeff Norman!

Delectable hors d’oeuvres were prepared with the secret ingredient, Jack Daniels, as guests swooned over the flavors. Before enjoying a sumptuous dinner, tasters had the chance to purchase autographed bottles of the liquor as souvenirs.

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Weddings • Birthdays

Smiles abound at the 7th annual High Tea. Honoreing outstanding “Women with a Heart for Bakersfield,” guests flocked to Seven Oaks Country Club where a delicious lunch was served and entertainment was provided by the children of Garden Pathways’ E3 Performing Arts program. Proceeds will enable the expansion of mentoring and education services in Kern County.

C.C.Rider Productions Masterful Vocal Impersonations of

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Steve Long 661.805.7384 Judy & Jessica Eveland

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Judi McCarthy & Amy Adams

Retirement • Special Events Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 129

bakersfield’s sound

d

Photo courtesy of chris brewer

California theateR

rior to the days of talkies but after the world of nickelodeons; during a time of prohibition, flappers, and The Great Gatsby, The California Theater on Chester Avenue and Wall Street was an entertainment haven for Bakersfield. It was a place to see the latest from DeMille or to eagerly stand in line to catch the newest release from silent film star Constance Talmadge.

These weren’t the days when movies ran for two months in theaters—if you didn’t make it down to the movie house during a film’s four-day run, you didn’t see it.

So it seemed all of Bakersfield turned up to see Talmadge’s performance as Helen Weyringer in Her Sister From Paris on this Saturday in November (don’t ask how we found out it was a Saturday).

They packed the renovated theater, which was originally the old Scribner’s Opera House.

Reopened on September 14, 1920 after old W. H. Scribner was fed up with the competition from the Bakersfield Opera House (which opened in 1906), The California Theater boasted a pit orchestra to accompany the silent movies and vaudeville acts that graced the stage, and was actually large enough to have a 2-manual, 10-rank organ. And unlike the flashlight-toting teens of today, the young ushers of yore were known to dress up to accompany the picture that was showing. The release of the 1926 film You’re in the Navy Now had usherettes donning sailor uniforms (we’ve seen the pictures).

While it was considered the first metropolitan building in Bakersfield upon its construction in 1889, this location proved inhospitable for both the opera house and the theater and in 1966 became the Community National Bank.

Never again would this building draw crowds that seem more in keeping with the movie premieres of today than with the glitz and glamor of Bakersfield during the Roaring 20s. ‘

the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen.

130 Bakersfield Magazine - www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

Bakersfield Magazine - Fall 2009 131

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