Bakersfield Magazine • 27-3 • Sizzlin' Singles

Good News About Local Real Estate VOL. 27 NO. 3

The Summertime Movie Night

The How-to’s of Home Loans

YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.

Ostrich Wrangling & Other Odd Jobs SINGLES ISSUE

3.50

$

annual

dream homes se ction

Sizzlin’ Singles

Playing By Their Rules BakersfieldMagazine.net We’re everywhere you are.

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Bakersfield Magazine

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v

THE

G A L L E R Y

SAN JOAQUIN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

The Gift Gallery Your Boutique for

DREAM HOMES 2010

Contents

f e at u r e s

Look what we found while out on the town

Stuff We Like .................. 23 A “legendair y” stor y from old Bakersfield

Moo Town .......................... 28

Elegant Home Decor

Tyler Candles Jewelry Designer Perfume The career counselor never mentioned these

Lindsey Phillips Switch Flops,Purses and Scarves Mud Pie Infant Clothes and Accessories

got GLOVES?

odd jobs They’re successful, spirited, and flying solo!

the sweet life

sizzlin’ singles

34

43

The biggest event of the decade is back

Business Conference ....... 49 A Basque favorite with a whole lot of punch

Bottoms Up! .................... 92

Soft Plush Animals Fresh Flower Arrangements See’s Candy Dewar’s Chews

It’s time to eat healthy for a healthy baby

2615 Chester Avenue

661-395-3000 www.sjch.us

Bakersfield Magazine

We asked the pros to give us their picks

a better way

99

Hot Neighborhoods ....... 55

off the vine

Get financially ready for your dream home

This theatre deserves a long curtain call

Is it Time To Buy?............. 59

Nonprofit Spotlight ........... 104

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v

DREAM HOMES 2010

Contents

Bakersfield Marriott

When only the best will do!

Summer Salad

D E P ART M E N TS

Try The Nines Restaurant for lunch.

Over 20 items to choose from for under $10.00

old & New

Spectacular !

G e t a h a i rc u t a n d g e t a re a l j o b !

Letter from the Editor ......... 13 More info than a round of Trivial Pursuit

kern facts

15

Keep your summer style classy and simple

The Bakersfield Look .......... 25 His business plan is, “One for the Gipper”

Citizen Kern ........................ 27

Mary’s Amazin Pegasu g s

Why Be Happy for Just One Hour?

Enjoy your favorite drinks, signature cocktails and tasty appetizers all day

What role do ethics play in the workplace?

long in the m.i. greatroom. Happy Hour

Human Resources ............... 82

specials are $3 Drafts and $5 Well and

Cool summer treats never tasted so fresh

Quick Bites ...................... 84

Wine drinks.

Grab a bite at this classy local hideaway

What’s Cookin’..................... 85 France isn’t the only place making Bordeaux Chicken or egg? Farmer John was the first

grade AA

riskTakers

31

Life is a Cabernet ................. 87

Which plant labels need labels of their own?

Gardening with Mrs. P ........ 65 Oven. Microwave. Griddle. Burner. The sun?

Going Green ....................... 69

Lights, camera, ACTION...It’s movie night

Entertaining the

Bakersfield way

89

A Mediterranean vacation close to home

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Bakersfield, CA

bakersfieldmarriott.com Bakersfield Magazine

Great Getaways ............... 105 It’s time to get rid of your kitchen clutter

create a better

home & Garden

79

Where did our roaming shutterbug find you?

Party Chatter .................. 112 A stagecoach stop fit for Yosemite Sam

Bakersfield’s Sound ........ 114

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remembering

Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend

Vol. 27 No. 3

S

Dream Homes 2010

Publisher Les Corum

Executive Editor Mike Corum Assistant Editor Anika Henrikson Garden Editor Lynn Pitts

Historical Editor Chris Livingston

Wine & Food Editor Mike Stepanovich Creative Director Chuck Barnes Graphic Artist Laura Turner

Systems/Production Ryan Turner

Director of Sales/Marketing Mark Corum

Sales & Marketing Douglas “Dale” Heflin, Lisa Corum Mike Broida, Greg Johnson

At San Dimas Medical Group, Inc.

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Obstetrics/Gynecology

e’ve been delivering precious packages since 1973

Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez

Contributing Writers Holly Culhane, Tracie Grimes Jason Gutierrez, Tom Xavier, Janet Wheeler Matthew Martz, Gordon Lull Accounting/Human Resources Melissa Galvan Distribution/Circulation Brigit Ayers Cover Art Solorzano Photography

Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. 1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 Office (661) 834-4126 Fax (661) 834-5495 Email: marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net website: bakersfieldmagazine.net

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Bakersfield Magazine is published bi-monthly by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2010 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.

To learn more about our services visit us at:

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS DREAM HOMES 2010

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing...62 Jost Carpet One Floor & Home....63 Castle & Cooke......................72 Centex Homes.........................73 Delfino Homes.................... ..74 Lennar Homes........................75 Solera by Del Webb...................76 John Dovichi Custom Homes....77

Kern Health Resource Guide...58

Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory Worship Director y...............64

Green

Pages

G re e n P a g e s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Bobbi’s Hallmark Shop • 8200 Stockdale Highway Ste. F3

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home & Garden resources

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The Dining Guide The Dining Guide..................93

MEDICAL PROFILES Medical Profiles...................97

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Weddings............................109

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Shoppers Bazaar................107

Corporate Relocation

Letter from the Editor

“Get a haircut and get a real job...”

If ever there was a theme song, this would be mine (my mantra, my political statement, my oxymoron): “Get a Haircut.”

These are words I’ve heard time and time again and yet, somehow, I’ve managed to escape the fate of the almighty shears on a fairly regular basis. Call it stubbornness, call it rebellion, call it laziness (my brother calls it lucky), I’d say it’s a combination of all of the above. I could just never figure out why it was so darn important for guys to have short hair when it came to employment. Sure, who wants a male doctor who has hair down to his waist. And have you ever seen a male lawyer that sports a foot-long ponytail? But for the most part, if your hair ain’t in the way, I say “let it grow.” (For the record, I’ll always be anti-mullet!)

Maybe that’s why I’ve had some of the jobs I’ve had—costumed character, gas station attendant, mobile home mover... the list goes on. But, more than likely, the weirdest thing I’ve ever done to make a buck was inspired by a chance viewing of Disney’s Johnny Tremain in 5th grade. Something about playing with fire and melting metal really appealed to me.

I wanted to add Silversmith to my list of “When I Grow Up...” (I was sure the Boston Tea Party “Indian” positions would all be taken.)

Not long ago, I was fortunate enough to find a local lady who taught such a thing!

I took classes three and four times a week, cramming my brain with the intricacies of my chosen craft, and soon I was ready to learn lost wax casting—let the fun begin!

I was instructed to find something small I wanted to cast in silver, keeping in mind that once it was cast, the original would be “lost” forever. An insect, a flower perhaps? Me? I chose black widow spiders.

My first one didn’t turn out so well, but with practice, perseverance, and a neverending local supply of Latrodectus Hesperus, I was turning out some really unique pieces of silver spider jewelry before long.

And, surprisingly, people bought them! Of course, keeping a jar full of black widows in the freezer really creeped-out my kids.

OK, so maybe that doesn’t technically qualify as a “job,” but we at Bakersfield Magazine did find some people who would do almost anything to make a living—and they are definitely of the “odd” persua-

sion (the jobs, not the people). I’m talking about our Odd Jobs story...these are the jobs your guidance counselor never told you about. The oddity starts on page 43.

And it’s Sizzlin’ Singles time again. We found 29 local singles and followed them for fun “on the town” with miniature golf, salsa dancing, and ice skating.

The great thing about our Singles issue is we do it in conjunction with the Annual Boots and Bachelors Auction for the benefit of the Bakersfield Homeless Shelter. This year’s auction is October 1st at the Crystal Palace and we’re giving you a sneak peek at all the bachelors. That’s right, each of our single men will be auctioned off to the highest bidder! It’s a great night for a great cause. And don’t forget to log on to our website for even more Singles fun.

Of course, with August comes the return of our Annual Dream Homes issue. This year’s section is bursting with some really good news: houses are selling! We talked directly with those in the know—real estate agents and lenders! They offered our readers some great advice on the ins and outs of acquiring a home loan in today’s market and the scoop on Bakersfield’s most popular neighborhoods. And don’t forget to check out our builder profiles!

Dream Homes starts on page 53.

Plus, we have all our regular favorites that you’ve come to know and love. It’s another “Sizzlin’ ” issue!

Now I’m off to find some black widows.

Enjoy!

Mike Corum comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net

8200 Stockdale Hwy. Ste D7

832-4270

www.sneadsformen.com

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 13

If you appreciate your car, you’ll appreciate our work.

Carriage

Masters is one of the largest

independently owned collision repair facilities in the nation. Situated on approximately 4 acres & encompassing over 40,000 sq. ft. of repair area including a separate alignment and suspension shop. We have 16 offices in our front building and we reserve a number of those for visiting insurance estimators. We also house a large Enterprise

Rent-A-Car

office.

Our

employees

strive to provide the highest quality collision repair and customer service available, and take pride in our turn-around times. Red Harden, owner/operator of Carriage Masters, boasts of having served our community for over 35 years.

Our Mission: To return all vehicles to pre-accident condition while treating each customer as we, personally, would like to be treated.

8929 Rosedale Highway 661.587.0550

Coffee Road

El Toro Viejo Rd.

www.carriagemasters.com

Mall Plaza Dr.

Calloway Drive

14 Bakersfield Magazine

Rosedale Hwy.

Kern Facts

In & Around B•Town

in step with:

HIS

Katie (Harlan) & Andrew Allen

& Hers

Andrew is a paramedic and Katie is a news anchor, so this über-cute couple knows a lot about high-stress situations...like raising a new baby!

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

Katie: I know it sounds lame, but it was love at first sight. In that moment, I knew I was looking into the eyes of my future husband.

Andrew: We were set-up by mutual friends, and I was fortunate to spot her before she saw me. When I first saw her, I had to go hide in the kitchen of the bar I was working in. She was so stunning, I literally had to catch my breath. Then I played it cool through the rest of the night.

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

Katie: After almost a year of wedding planning, I couldn’t wait for the BIG day.

But, at the end of our wedding ceremony, the priest looks at us with a puzzled look on his face and says “Okay, you’re done, you are married.” In amazement, I looked at him and screamed, “You haven’t said ‘you may now kiss the bride.’” Everyone laughed and, of course, we smooched.

Andrew: Once, when Katie was sick, I

was holding her hair back. Then, suddenly, I became ill and we were both praying to the porcelain gods. The worst part is we had just started dating.

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

Katie: I worked at Bath & Body Works part-time to make enough money to survive in Oregon. I was working as a news reporter and Drew couldn’t find a job. After months of searching, he finally took a job stocking lotions at Bath & Body Works with me. Not the most masculine position, but he did it for me and my career.

Andrew: Katie being in labor for more than 13 hours and pushing for more than 30 minutes and never once mentioning painkillers.

What is your spouse’s biggest phobia?

Katie: I don’t know if it’s a phobia, but he hates sharing his food. I always have to have a bite of what he’s eating and it really bugs him.

Andrew: Frogs! Our neighborhood is infested with frogs. Katie cannot step outside without screeching.

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

Katie: Me. I generally react with emotion first and then reason. He’s the calm one in the relationship, but that doesn’t mean he’s always right.

Andrew: Definitely Katie. I may be calm most of the time, however, I can be stubborn.

What is your spouse most passionate about and why?

Katie: MMA fights and his new Apple computer. A close third is family. But, seriously, our daughter already has him wrapped around her finger. He puts his family first and is a very hands-on father.

Andrew: Of course Katie is most passionate about our little baby girl. Next would be celebrity gossip news and reality shows.

Why? I have no clue but, being her husband, I can unfortunately tell you what is current with the “housewives” shows.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Bakersfield and why?

Katie: Watching movies in the crying room at Maya Cinemas in Downtown.

We usually go in the morning and have the whole room to ourselves.

Andrew: Eating out! The Bakersfield community is so passionate about their local eateries. I enjoy the busy restaurants and being with the community.

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

Katie: Least favorite is that he will only eat food with a large fork. Most favorite is his patience, ability to fix anything, and devotion to his family.

Andrew: My least favorite is that Katie always has to “share” my meal when we eat out. Most favorite is her outgoing personality and passion.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 15

Kern Facts

T

Farmers vs.

Nobility

he arrival of the English colonists [in the 1890s] was a great event in Bakersfield. They were market gardeners who had saved small sums of money, and scions of nobility, who were shipped abroad by their relatives as a last despairing means for the moral and industrial redemption.

The few farmers among the English colonists got to work in their own fashion to the amazement and mirth of the California ranchers. The latter, used to driving six to ten horses attached to a gang plow, made great sport of the English farmers who went to their fields with a boy to lead the single horse while a man held the plow handles. But the little orchards and vineyards that the Englishmen planted grew and [thrived].

The scions of nobility disdained to toil. But they certainly made lively times about the Southern [Hotel]. Nearly all the idlers were remittance men, and they ran uniformly successful races with time to dissipate their monthly allowances before the next batch of checks came from home. If they were sent out here to be clear of the temptations of English city life, they were

©istockphoto.com/duncan1890

thrown from the frying pan into the fire, for if the slums of Bakersfield lacked anything that the young British bloods were used to, they speedily arranged to supply the deficiency and to give all vice a Western air and relish that the most artistic panderers to depravity in European capitals could not put to blush.

It was profitable to cater to the pleasures and follies of the remittance men, and in those days, a dollar that was not in visible circulation was counted a dollar lost in Bakersfield. When the birthday of Queen Victoria was being celebrated, the loyalty rose to such a height that not only was her majesty’s health drunk copiously in the Southern’s best champagne, but the cheering crowd came storming out of the dining room and tried to pour champagne down the throats of the ponies tied at the rail.

Source: History of Kern County, California by Wallace M. Morgan. Historic Record Company, Los Angles, California, 1914.

s “Possibilitieissall” 60+ CLUB halearn what the 60+ Club

our chance to 0 ibilities Day,” from 9-11:3 about awaits you at “Poss l Ca at ion er 9 in the Student Un a.m., Thursday, Septemb won’t cost you a dime.

State Bakersfield. And it staffed ents, visit various tables While enjoying refreshm e club Th s. al groups and activitie by the leaders of individu rsity, ive un ies to volunteer for the offers many opportunit nces ma for events, ushering for per ity such as timing swimming cil Fa the ping out at F.A.C.T., at the Dore Theater, or hel the y tor his atment. In its 25-year for Animal Care and Tre to CSUB. n 55,000 volunteer hours club has given more tha is retired. or one who is 60 or over Membership is open to any Alumni UB please call the CS For more information, 1.

Affairs office at 654-321

Y

16 Bakersfield Magazine

People • Places • Events

Local

expressions

I

t’s not only dedication and passion that a poet has to surrender to their art form. “A poem needs obsession,” explained LisaAnn LoBasso.

And LoBasso is more than willing to obsess over her poetry.

“Every word, line break, misspelling, punctuation mark,” she said. “You sometimes have to reign yourself in.”

But, by nature, LoBasso doesn’t (or won’t) reign herself in.

Born in Lakewood in 1970, LoBasso traveled coast to coast during her youth but said she always ended up “back in Bakersfield,” attending grammar and high school

LisaAnn LoBasso

State Bank of India (CA)

3400 Panama Lane, Suite R Bakersfield, Ca 93313

of her poetry collections published, In the Swollen in 2003 and Oleander Milkshake in 2008, she’s been an Artist in Resident for the Arts Council of Kern; she’s planned numerous literary events for Bakersfield and national poets; she was a California Poet Laureate Nominee in 2008; and, through workshops, she’s taught people of all ages to embrace the poet inside themselves.

“It’s difficult to pinpoint my favorite thing about poetry,” she said, laughing.

“For starters, no one can tell you [empirically] what a poem means. I love that. A poem can mean so many things to so many people.”

Of course, the life of an artist, especially a poet, is rough.

“I just kept doing it,” she said of the beginning. That also required multiple book

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“When you’re on stage, you’re being presented— you’re pushing your work out.

And the poem will just bring the audience back into you.”

in town. After attending UC Berkeley and UC Riverside, LoBasso again found herself calling Kern County home. Only this time, she returned with a degree in creative writing and a minor in art.

However, her love of music and lyrics naturally steered her to poetry.

“I incorporate a lot of sound elements into my poetry,” LoBasso said. “There are a lot of theatrics in a reading. When you’re on stage, you’re being presented—you’re pushing your work out. And the poem will just bring the audience back into you.”

LoBasso has had a long career in the art world. In addition to having had two

tours. “I’ve been across the United States and read in every place you can think of, specifically up and down the east and west coasts. Last summer, I went on a five-week tour, reading every day, everywhere.”

Recently, LoBasso finished a third book of poems. “I wrote 48 poems in 30 days.

And I started 70 others. On top of it all, I was writing a thesis, but I believe it’s some of my best work.”

Her work is earthy and raw—it’s complex and simplistic at the same time. Her work is graphic and sultry; romantic and evocative. And many poems, like “Sugarloaf” and “Upon a Sick Child,” are local reader favorites.

“I think of myself as a paintbrush. I’m just the tool to let people connect with art because poetry is challenging in a positive way.”

RSC

28 Years of Local INDEPENDENT experience.

Realty Company

Robin Ablin

Broker/Owner DRE# 996751

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 17

Kern Facts

Geocache Update

little t’s been a while, dear ce we sin , treasure hunters of our ys rne jou the brought you word on we have some traveling bugs. It seems are still moving fanatic geocachers who thankfully, we our bugs to and fro. And, o are happy wh s her have some geocac e to time on tim m fro to give us updates When last g. din lan where our bugs are us Bakersfield we checked, our adventuro sed the United Magazine bugs had traver Florida, Texas, States (stopping in Virginia, ny seas. One ma d sse and Arizona) and cro as North Pole, found its way as far north und up enjoying Alaska, and the other wo rope. That bug Eu al the scenery in Centr m geocache to is still there, hopping fro

I

DRE Lic.00818891

Rio Bravo Resort • $1,750,000 Nestled high on 30,000 sq. ft. lot, w/views of the foothills. 7bdrm, 6 bth, almost 7,000 sq. ft., 4 fireplaces, hardwood floors, 2,042 sq. ft. theater/game room, w/guest quarters. 20’ ceilings, great room, double island granite kitchen w/fireplace, pool, 3-car garage.

Seven Oaks • $1,195,000

On Golf Course, French Country, Gated Showcase IV. Dovichi-built 4bdrm+office, big game room… travertine floors, plantation shutters, white kitchen. First floor master suite. Exceptional quality, great price.

Seven Oaks • $2,150,000 Elegant Seven Oaks Showcase Traditional Georgian Country House meticulously planned, 7,500 sq. ft.

Tranquil English Gardens, outdoor living room w/ fireplace, pool. 6 bdrms-one is full guest quarters.

Great room, library, office, sunroom, elevator.

Seven Oaks • $1,395,000 Jolliff-built! Over 6,700 sq. ft. 6 bdrms + office, 5.5 baths, theatre, game room, 4-car garage. Heated pool/spa, bbq, big patio! Hardwood floors, crown moldings, double-island granite kitchen w/ double appliances. Words do not do this justice!

Signature Properties, Signature Service!

18 Bakersfield Magazine

public. Friendly geocache in the Czech Re a photo taken in geocacher Eliska sent us dislav (a town the small village of Vla Czech-Moravian in the region known as the info, Eliska! If Highlands). Thanks for the geocaching action, you want to get in on the e Kern County or learn how to locate som om. caches, visit geocaching.c

When you’ve just

Gotta Have It! W

hen Mary Madland, owner of Bakersfield’s Madland Toyota-Lift, found herself at famed actor Jack Palance’s estate sale in 2007, there were a number of things that caught her eye. She wrangled up a few antiques and typical estate sale items while she was there, but one thing that stood out from the crowd was the Pegasus statue artist Sean Guerrero had crafted for Palance by welding together old chrome bumpers.

Madland was adamant that she be the one to take the beautiful art home. So adamant, in fact, that she said she got into a bidding war (which she won) with musician John Sebastian, who is a big fan of Guerrero’s work.

When Madland isn’t showing the work off, the Pegasus sits in the lot at Madland Toyota-Lift and attracts the attention of passersby. In fact, that’s how we at the magazine came to notice this work of art.

“We get people stopping by all the time to take a peek,” Madland continued, laughing.

“Parents bring their kids and someone will stop what they’re doing to show them the darned thing.”

But Madland does have some other ideas for what she’d like to do with this quirky statue. For one, she wants to eventually construct a building along her property on Highway 99 and use the Pegasus as a sign.

“And I started thinking it would be a great addition for the terminal at Meadows Field Airport,” she added.

“There’s definitely room in there, and it’s a gorgeous piece.

Now I just have to figure out how to make that happen.”

19 30 239.5 3,500 13,000 511,500

By The Numbers Number of citizens that make up the Kern County Grand Jury

Number of National Championships CSUB Athletic Programs have won Number of volunteer hours donated to Kern County Animal Control in June Number of seats at Sam Lynn Ballpark

Number of sites the county’s Graffiti-Off program has cleaned up since 2000 Projected population for Metro Bakersfield in 2011

Sources: co.kern.ca.us; csub.edu; ballparkreviews.com; Bakersfield Economic & Community Development

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100

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years s

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e here at Bakersfield Magazine would like to extend a huge thank you to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County. Earlier this year, they came to us and said that, in honor of how much support our founder Donna Corum had shown the Clubs, they wanted to plant a garden in her name. As most of you may know, Donna was an avid gardener.

Needless to say, we were touched by the offer.

So, this summer, a garden full of gorgeous flowers (hand-picked by the youngsters), was lovingly planted at the Clubs’ downtown facility.

Donna would be very thrilled.

Good work guys!

t

Donna’s Garden W

a n e r

S

omeone finally figured out our last Pop Quiz! After two issues , a whole lot of entries, and a little bit of nail-biting on our part, Miriam Baker identified the gates at Stockdale Country Club. That me ans we’ve got a new challenge for yo u this issue.

We tried to make it just as hard, but we also hope there are some smarty-pants out there who’ll get this in no time. Partly because we like to give away prizes, and the winner of this con test will win $30 in Russo’s Bo oks gift certificates. So, tell us, where did we take this picture? www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 19

Kern Facts Vince Fong, our local Representative for Congressman McCarthy, lets us behind closed doors and reveals his five favorite things.

UCLA Affiliated Cancer Center

(661) 322-2206

www.cbccusa.com 6501 Truxtun Avenue • Bakersfield, CA

1

Spending time with my family! I always love family time, whether it’s taking my wife and kids to Rosemary’s or throwing the football around with my son.

2

Relaxing with my two dogs (Toby and Kimmy). Nothing beats spending a quiet Sunday afternoon in the backyard with my two best friends.

3

5

My Blackberries! I definitely need to turn them off more often, but how else would I stay connected with the world?

, cont n August of 1939 d to the rapes of Wrath le Steinbeck’s The G from Kern ’ decision to ban it county supervisors me month, d schools. The sa County libraries an 3-reel film mmerce shows a the Chamber of Co l. of Plenty in rebutta called The Plums

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rsar y

Insurance 2009 N. C Farmers Facility of the Year alifornia

unty

ronology of Kern Co

Source: Historic Ch

1516 25th Street Bakersfield, CA, 93301

661 323-7902

ge

Did You Knowro?versy over John

QUALITY WORK • REASONABLE RATES nive r An1950 aSINCE

60 Ye

A “good” movie. Any Jerry Bruckheimer action movie will do.

Photo by Dorothea Lan

EAGLESON BODY WORKS, INC.

Going to the beach—especially Avila, where I proposed to my wife, Michelle.

4

A-List CONTEST

B

akersfield is a city known for its food. We’re also known for our generosity. Well, we here at Bakersfield Magazine like to combine the two and give away gift certificates to awesome local restaurants. Because, hey, free food! But the hitch is, you’ve got to be an A-Lister. More good news, though—it’s free to join the A-List. And easy. Just visit bakersfieldmagazine.net and sign up today. Then you’ll be automatically entered into cool contests. Like this one—the first person to spot their name below and email us at alist@bakersfieldmagazine.net wins a $100 gift certificate to Uricchio’s Trattoria. So take a look, because a gift certificate is a horrible thing to waste.

20 Bakersfield Magazine

Jen James Steven Jauch Juli Work Rick Riley Spencer Schluter Annie Puskarich Jan Friedly Terry Telford

Dawn Leonis Martha Lane Megan Atluns David Cannon

*contest open to A-List members who have not won a prize in the past three months.

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I

f the key to life is getting Those are your knockout punches. Pommel a perfect 10, then Tom Ladman horse is the constant jab. has lived it.

“I had decided at that point in my career, I Ladman is the Boys Program Director could get really good at one, or be mediocre and Team Coach for American Kids Sports at multiple events,” Ladman explained of Center, and has been coaching gymnasts for his choice to specialize in pommel horse. “I nearly three decades, including one Junior liked the challenge of it. It’s all you’ve got National All-Around Champion and mem- for 45 seconds; like a 100-yard dash.” bers of the U.S. Junior National Team.

Pommel horse specialists design routines A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, to maximize their strengths along with perLadman was introduced to gymnastics when forming the required skills for scoring. his mother decided that it would be a good “I created a skill in college,” recalled idea for the slender 7-year-old Ladman. “ I worked on it for to bulk up after moving to a Even after snatching 30 minutes a day, six days top honors, for this neighborhood with a bunch of a week and I didn’t make it older brawny boys.

50-year-old, nothing once for 18 months. People With a goal, and a rigortold me to hang it up, but can compare to ous 30-hour-a-week training I don’t give up easily. In the triumphs of schedule, by the time he had other sports you just have coaching. reached his junior year in high to beat the other competischool, the All-American had developed the tors. With the pommel you’re in a battle necessary skills that would eventually earn with perfection.” him a State Championship and a ticket to All that training and patience paid divithe University of Arizona. dends for Ladman in his senior year with Originally invented to practice mounting the Nittany Lions, reaching the apex of and dismounting a steed, the pommel horse his competitive career, by tying for second shows little homage to those humble ori- place in the 1983 NCAA Championship gins. Competitions are judged on a 45-sec- pommel horse event with 1984 US Olympic ond routine consisting of single and double gold medalist Peter Vidmar of UCLA. leg swings, circles, and full-body rotations “Competitively, that was quite a day,” using one or both arms. All require extreme Ladman says. “I scored a 9.9 in the upper body and core strength to get from one team finals that afternoon, and then trick to another in a single fluid motion. that night a 9.9 in individual finals.”

“It doesn’t look like an event that is painBut even after snatching top honors, for ful,” said Ladman, who has broken every this 50-year-old, nothing can compare to the finger at least once, “but think of it like a triumphs of coaching. boxer who has a knockout punch and a jab.

“I’ve competed with the best,” says LadOther events where competitors are flying man, “but today my role is to encourage and high in the air have some fantastic crashes. guide young athletes. That’s a perfect 10.”

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 21

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Kern Facts

Just Add WATER For Record-Breaking Fun!

I

t’s not very often Bakersfield enters the Guinness Book of World Records.

But it usually starts with someone getting an idea.

“It was my stupid idea,” said Mary Osborn, chuckling. She is a member of the Bakersfield High School Athletic Booster Club. “It’s so hard to fund-raise; everyone sells cookie dough or candy bars. So, one night, I woke up and thought ‘What’s the Guinness World Record holder for biggest water balloon fight?’ The next morning, I brought the idea up to our band director, who said the idea would never fly with the board.”

Only she was met with “Great! Go for it!”

So on August 28, at Yokuts Park, one of the biggest fundraisers in Bakersfield will be taking place.

“We’re going to try and break the record for number of people involved,” she continued.

“The record is 4,700. We’re aiming to have 5,000 people participate.”

But don’t think by attending you’ll be tossing water balloons at just anyone. “It’s going to be Drillers versus the rest of Bakersfield.

Any alumni will be on the BHS team.” The balloon fight itself will happen at the end of the day, with carnival games, a Dunka-Driller booth, and local bands filling up the early afternoon.

“We want this to work. For $5, every entrant will receive two water balloons and a T-shirt. Additional water balloons can be bought. All the money raised goes back into the BHS music program. We’re hoping to set a record, have some fun, and support the school.”

Rest assured, Mary, we’re so there!

Winners Gallery!

S

ometimes we wish we could shout out all our winners’ names like the announcer on The Price is Right. We’d love to call out “come on down!” after each name.

But, alas, we’re a print media, and that announcer probably charges a lot per hour. Still, we had some big winners this issue who deserve a little time in the spotlight.

A-List Contest Winner Kirsten Hoffman

Pop Quiz Winner Miriam Baker American Cancer Society Gift Basket Donna Biel

22 Bakersfield Magazine

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24 Bakersfield Magazine

Angie Poole, 35 Occupation: Sales Executive Are you a Bakersfield Native?

Yes. I’ve never lived anywhere else.

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

Lip plump. I don’t go anywhere without it. I have about eight sticks in my purse right now. And I’m not kidding.

Do you think Bakersfield has a style?

It’s very trendy, but I think girls tend to try a little more than guys do (when it comes to style).

Describe your personal style.

Classy but simple. I don’t overaccessorize.

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

About 40 minutes. I don’t take long.

Is there a celebrity or person in your life that you get your style from?

I like Jennifer Lopez’s style.

She’s classy but not over-revealing or overdone.

What are you wearing?

I’m wearing a bebe top; the skirt is Charlotte Rousse (but the belt is from another skirt); the shoes are Joey; and the jewelery is from bebe, too. Oh, and the bag is Juicy.

Does your style change when you are not at work?

No, I carry my day look on into the night when I’m out with the girls.

How do you personalize your ‘business’ look?

Shoes! I always start with the shoes and work up from there. I wear something that’s going to get noticed.

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield?

Bebe and Jezabelle’s.

What is your favorite item of clothing?

Jeans and heels. My friends call me “Jean Queen.”

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made?

Back when I was a freshman, I thought I was cool walking around in Z Cavaricci pants.

Are you a bargain hound?

Absolutely. I like name brands but I go for the sales. That gives me a reason to shop for twice as much.

What mistakes do you think men make when they dress?

Tennis shoes! You can’t go out dressed up and be wearing tennis shoes. Those are meant for the gym!

FASHION TIP: start with the shoes and go up from there.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 25

26 Bakersfield Magazine

!

CITIZEN KERN

Matching athletes, coaches, and the right program takes more than luck.

Personal Stats:

How he got started: After graduating college, Tudor was a sports caster for KBAK 29 between the years of 1987 and 1993. “From there, I went into sales and marketing with a national corporation, but I maintained an interest in sports, especially recruiting,” he says. After forming a recruiting service and working with athletes, Tudor realized that coaches needed just as much advice when it came to finding student-athletes. Enter Selling for Coaches.

His heroes: On a professional level, there is one man who stands out for Tudor: bestselling author Seth Godin, whose books on marketing strategies and sales philosophies have helped Tudor develop his program further.

meet

Dan Tudor

‘‘

While working with athletes, I realized coaches needed just as much advice.

His favorite part of the industry: While Tudor has traveled all over the U.S., racking up 80,000 air miles a year, he says his favorite part is “definitely not all the traveling.” Rather, he says being able to see that his advice has paid off for the coaches and programs he works with. “I love seeing my program applied and getting positive feedback from folks like USC coach Pete Carroll.”

‘‘

Career highlights: As a frequent lecturer and convention speaker, Tudor has had the opportunity to see all corners of the country and meet some amazing athletes and coaches. He’s also recently began working with Ari Fleischer, the former White House Press Secretary for George W. Bush, who works as a media consultant for the NFL, and has started his own sports communications company.

photos/images courtesy kbak 29 (Logo), joi ito (seth godin), dave black (pete carroll), paul keleher (football pic), dan tudor (selling for coaches book)

Name: Dan Tudor Age: 43 Birthplace: Bakersfield, CA Title: Entrepreneur,

founder “Selling for Coaches”

What he’d still like to accomplish: “I’d love to see some international growth,” Tudor explains. “And adding more staff to Selling for Coaches.” This accomplished entrepreneur would also like to reach out to more colleges, not just the coaching staff, to discuss ways they can use his techniques to recruit students.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 27

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28 Bakersfield Magazine

By Chris Livingston Kern County has a rich agricultural heritage. Grapes, cotton, and citrus are just some of the popular crops that are shipped out worldwide. Kern County also has a rich heritage in the dairy industry. In 1908, J.G. Stahl wrote about the fruitfulness of the dairy industry in Kern County. In The Spirit of Bakersfield and Kern, he wrote that dairymen in this county stand to enjoy benefits that only a few counties in Cali-

points out, “there is never a day in the year too cold for the cattle to go out to feed or water, and we have more days of sunshine than almost any other industry.” The small farmer who endeavored to engage in dairying, Stahl concludes, will place “himself in an independent position, as well as retaining for himself all the profit there is in business.” One such entrepreneur moved from Traver, California to Bakersfield to capitalize on the opportunity.

H.R. Peacock came to Bakersfield around 1902.

While in Traver, he owned a livery and creamery business.

He was attracted to Kern County for many of the reasons Stahl highlighted in Meadowland Dairy used to sit his article. Soon afat 16th and O streets, where Rabobank Arena and the ter settling in Kern Convention Center sit today.

County, Peacock founded the Kern County Creamery which was a new industry for Bakersfield. He was very successful and as his business grew, he reached a daily output of 1,200 pounds of butter, the bulk of which was sold and consumed in Bakersfield. His business thrived unchallenged for a while, but that all eventually changed.

On April 16, 1913 the Bakersfield Californian reported that a new creamery incorporated with a beginning capital of fornia could offer. These “irrigated lands $15,000. Calhoun Collins, a ranch hand at of Kern County” were crucial in sustain- the McKittrick Ranch in 1913, tells how ing the “most important factor in the dairy the idea unfolded when he wrote “Mr. industry”: a large supply of feed crops Kincaid, a promoter from Newman, came such as alfalfa and corn. Another impor- to the ranch and with the Captain [McKittant factor was the climate, and, as Stahl trick] and some neighboring ranchers, or-

©istockphoto.com/dageldog

Kern county’s dairy industry

This shot, taken by Carleton Watkins in the 1880s, shows cowboys branding at the Lakeside Ranch.

photos courtesy kern county library

ganized the Meadowland Creamery.” Meadowland used to sit at 16th and O streets, where Rabobank Arena and the Convention Center sit today. “[...]The Promoter, Mr. Kincaid, brought with him from Newman a man to run the outfit named N. Jensen, who was born in Denmark, on January 16, 1881. This Mr. Niels Jensen sure knew his P’s and cheese, and could shake more butter

out of a five-gallon can of cream than grandma with her up and down churn.” H.R. Peacock’s business was in trouble because the new Meadowland Creamery was a co-operative institution with forty-five farmers from across Kern County participating. These farmers also held stock in the company and therefore had a vested interest in marketing a quality product.

The grand opening of the Meadowland Creamery came on Sunday August 11, 1913. Many residents journeyed out to the ranch to see the new butter-making sensation. Crowds poured through the facility all day long and were able to see firsthand the equipment in action.

The addition of the Meadowland Creamery to Kern’s Dairy Industry added 500 pounds daily output of butter to the pounds Peacock’s Creamery was producing. While there was a healthy competition between the two creameries, the goal of Kern County dairymen was to be able to meet the daily consumption of 2,000 to 2,500 pounds of butter by Bakersfield residents and “the sections of the country tributary to this city.” Kern dairymen also sought to wean Kern County from supplemental supplies coming in from Tulare and Kings counties. >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 29

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30 Bakersfield Magazine

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Meadowland butter quickly became a Bakersfield and Kern County trademark and was to be found by shoppers in markets all over the county for .30 cents a pound.

The Meadowland Creamery was a big success and it shared its accomplishments with the community. Articles in various newspapers highlighted the company’s philanthropy. Meadowland products were often donated for charity fund-raisers such as Red Cross dinners and other support groups. Its employees also gave themselves to the community. During the Great War, Meadowland employees such as Martin Petersen, Otto Nelson, and others joined up in the fight for freedom.

At the end of the War, our boys came home and things began to get back to normal when tragedy struck at the Meadowland Creamery. On the morning of October 2, 1919 fire struck down the Bakersfield icon. The Californian reported that the source was defective wiring from an electric motor. Firefighters from two stations were able to put the fire out, however, “the entire roof of the building was burned off and the dairy machinery inside was heavily damaged, this being the chief source of the loss.” And though company officials assured its patrons it would not suspend its operation, production came to a grinding halt.

After six months of “forced idleness,” the company announced in March 1920 it would be resuming operations and expected “to be running full blast by the first of April.” The new building was reported to be fireproof as it was built with brick and concrete. The creamery was also equipped with the most up-to-date dairy equipment.

As predicted, the creamery was back in full operation by April 1920. Two years later, the creamery expanded its output to include ice cream.

In 1925, Peter Cattani, one of the original members of the board of directors, bought out the Meadowland from the dairymen who started it at the McKittrick Ranch. He settled in Weedpatch in 1911 and began dairy farming. On his ranch he operated the Vineland Cheese Factory, which was, for years, the largest in Kern County. After owning the Meadowland for ten years, he sold it to Jim Anderson, who renamed it the Superior Creamery.

Peter Cattani died in 1960 but by the time of his death, the Meadowland had long faded from existence. v

R I S K T A K E R S

By Tracie Grimes

John Lewis, II, of Farmer John Eggs, has maintained the successful family business for decades.

Let’s Get Cracking

W

ong Louie, a Chinese immigrant who came to the San Joaquin Valley with her husband in the early 1900s, didn’t realize she was starting her own family dynasty when she began collecting eggs and selling them from a baby carriage. She was just trying to keep her seven children fed and clothed after the sudden death of her husband.

“The ‘old-timers’ tell me that when she first started pushing that baby carriage around Dinuba [the Louie’s—later Anglicized to Lewis’—first home in California], it wasn’t eggs she was selling,” smiles John Lewis, Wong Louie’s grandson. “She was selling whiskey.”

Although Lewis isn’t sure how the transition from whiskey to eggs was made (“Probably had something to do with Prohibition”), sometime around 1925, Wong Louie became known as “Daan Ga,” Chinese for “The Egg Family.” Eggs she collected from local farms replaced the whiskey bottles in Wong Louie’s carriage and Farmer John Eggs, a family enterprise that would span generations, was born.

“My dad [John, Sr.] and Uncle Ray started running things, with my dad gathering eggs up and down the Valley and my uncle running the farm,” explains Lewis, the third-generation family member to run the business.

Today, Farmer John Eggs consists of over 600,000 chickens, a

feed mill, a processing plant, and other farms in the Bakersfield area.

And judging from the way Lewis runs things from the helm, it’s one big, happy family.

“My cousin!” he says as he leans back and smiles to answer a phone call from a colleague.

The sound of his voice prompts the three large dogs (“We’re not sure what breeds they are. They just showed up and now won’t leave, so I just keep them in here”) sleeping in various corners of his office to rise and move towards Lewis for a scratch.

“I’m proud of the way we operate around here,” he says of the relaxed atmosphere. “We’re like family and that’s how it should be—we take care of each other, do what it takes to get a job done.

“I try to do things the way my father did: I really think those guys in my dad’s generation were the best. They had to make it through the Depression and knew that they would just have to buckle down and do whatever it took to get the job done. My dad didn’t take much time off; he worked 10- or 12-hour days, took care of problems even if he had already put in his 8-hour day. And he always pushed me. Now, it’s my turn to imitate my father and push my son, John Lewis, III, so he can take over when I retire.”

But even considering Lewis’ pride in his business and family atmosphere, running an egg business isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

“A lot of people think being in the egg business is simple.

They think, ‘People are always going to eat eggs, right?’ >>

Farmer John Eggs has over 600,000 chickens, a feed mill, a processing plant, and other farms in Bakersfield.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 31

Risktakers­

But if they start looking down below the surface, it’s pretty complicated and can be cutthroat at times. We deal with the same kinds of things any other business does, but then you add things in like stories that come out saying, ‘Don’t eat fish because there’s too much mercury,’ then the next week the same guys are saying, ‘eat lots of fish because you need the omega-3’s.’ ” Lewis shakes his head. “We had that happen a few years back when they were saying ‘Don’t eat eggs because they have a lot of cholesterol.’ But now they’ve decided that eggs are good for you. You just have to go with it and ride out the rough patches, like in any other business.”

And just like most businesses these days, Farmer John Eggs is feeling the effects of our current recession.

“The recession has hurt us,” Lewis remarks. “Sure, people are staying in and eating home more, but that means the restaurants aren’t placing as many orders and that’s affecting all ranchers.”

Another thing that’s really affected Farmer John Eggs is California’s cutbacks in the WIC (Women, Infants, and Childrens program). “You know eggs have the highest quality protein and nutrition, next to mother’s milk, and are low in fat, yet the government has made such deep cutbacks, it’s getting harder for ranchers like me to keep supplying for the program. Last year, they were paying us $1.50 for a dozen eggs but now they’ve cut us back to $.85 per dozen. Our costs are just the same as they were last year, so we’re really losing a lot in this program. I know our state’s having problems, but you’d think they’d want to make sure eggs are always going to be available to those in the WIC program. With cuts like these, ranchers may find they’re losing money if they supply for the WIC program.

I’m just a simple chicken farmer and I don’t know how to solve all our state’s money problems, but these cutbacks just don’t make a lot of sense to me.”

And state cutbacks aren’t the only bureaucratic problems John is facing.

“Mandates are coming down saying that all [chicken] ranchers have to replace or upgrade their chicken houses to give the chickens more room. But the thing is, you can put a hundred chickens in a huge warehouse and I guarantee all the chickens are going to end up huddled in one corner. They’re chickens, it’s in their nature to flock together—it’s just what they

32 Bakersfield Magazine

John Lewis, III, learns the ins and outs of a major chicken business that has stood the test of time. do. So we could give them all the room in the world, but it won’t make a difference.

And with the state cutting their payments to us, how are we going to pay for these upgrades?”

But though these mandated upgrades are a thorn in the side of most chicken and egg ranchers, they may end up evening things so suppliers for the independent markets

I’m proud of the way we operate and feel I have an obligation to do my very best. –John Lewis, II and the super-stores have the same set of rules, Lewis notes.

“It’s been really tough to compete with the big suppliers that supply for the Targets and Wal-Marts, but I’m thinking that if the Humane Society gets in and forces these changes, we’ll all be on the same playing field.”

So far, Farmer John Eggs has managed to weather the bureaucratic and economic storms, although Lewis is careful not to count his chickens until they’ve hatched.

“It’s so competitive in our industry. I’ve seen a lot of businesses that have had to close down over the years because it’s hard to find money to upgrade machinery, chicken houses, etc.

Although investing in new equipment can be costly, the new machines can also increase productivity.

“The last machine we put in processed about 150 cases an hour. Now we’re talking about putting in machines that will process 300 to 400 cases an hour. It’s amazing to think about how much the industry has changed just during the time I’ve been running things [since 1969].”

Still shaking his head as he answers a call from his son—there’s a problem with one of the machines—Lewis advises John III, “Don’t be afraid to just pick the eggs up off of the machine with your hands.”

He begins reflecting on the more positive aspects of his business.

“I work with some pretty great people,” Lewis begins. “I know almost everyone in the business, have a lot of ‘cousins,’ and I’m proud of the way we operate and feel I have an obligation to do my best.

“We make it a point to be a part of the community by taking good care of our employees. Most have been with us for years and years because they leave when they want to. If they get to a point where they can’t do the particular job they were hired to do, like load crates, we just shift them over to another less strenuous job. It makes me happy to provide this kind of stability to our employees and to give back to our community. If you’re at a church breakfast, you’re probably eating Farmer John eggs.

And I feel blessed that I’m in a position to hand out eggs.”

Strong ties to his Catholic church means Lewis is always willing to help out his priest, even with the most out-of-theordinary request. “Maybe it’s my Catholic upbringing,” he chuckles, “but any time Monsignor Craig calls me up with a request like, ‘Hey John, I saw some pretty big Farmer John trucks over in Arvin the other day; do you have one with a lift?

Can you send it to pick up and deliver a piano?’ And I’m proud to be in a position to be able to help.”

It’s been a great way to make a living, Lewis sums up, thinking back on how Grandmother Louie got things started by putting a few eggs in her “basket.”

“It’s pretty amazing to think that ‘Daan Ga’ starting this whole thing,” he says, gesturing in the air to encompass the chicken ranch, processing plant, and Farmer John’s other farms. “She started out walking around Dinuba and now we’re covering Kern, Kings, Madera, and Merced counties. We’ve really grown into something more than just chickens and eggs.” v

Get your tickets early to join the fun at the 10th Annual Boots & Bachelors Auction benefiting the Bakersfield Homeless Center.

The evening will feature 15 of Bakersfield’s most eligible bachelors, great food, a no-host bar, and a fabulous live and silent auction!

So come on and join us at this year’s Boots & Bachelors Auction!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 33

These singles are living the sweet life. They’ve got fulfilling jobs, love to give back, and have great heads on their shoulders. They know it’s not about who you’re with; it’s about how much fun you’re having. That’s why we’re declaring them all official Bakersfield Magazine Sizzlin’ Singles.

PHOTOS BY SOLORZANO PHOTOGRAPHY BACHELOR PHOTOS BY CHRISTINA BOHANNON Name: Rick Kreiser Age: 57 Occupation: President of Technology Center Marital Status: In a relationship Name one way you’ve gone green: Using only energy-efficient technology. In fact, if everyone just followed my lead on that, think of the difference we could make!

One word that best describes you: Ever-so “groovy.”

Hidden talent: Shucks, I’ve hidden them so well that I can’t even find them!

Celebrity dream date: I’ve always admired Diane Lane’s...work. Tina Fey would be a kick, too.

Love me, love my: Wonder dog, Ubu. How old were you when you got your first kiss?

Probably 10 (or so). It wasn’t anything to write home about as I remember, but it sure seemed special at the time.

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? Oh, sure. Pedi-Paws. Right after watching “the wonder dog” rip a nice hole in my bedspread.

We’d run into you here: Stockdale Country Club on a Sunday afternoon, trying to snag some “lunch money” from my pals.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? Use a restaurant.com coupon to make it $100, order a nice bottle of Pinot and some spinach ravioli, then use what’s left over to buy my date something to eat. Just kidding there.

Log on to BakersfieldMagazine.net for even more pictures and answers!

34 Bakersfield Magazine

Name: James Reyes Age: 38 Occupation: Registered Kinesiotherapist Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Loyal.

Hidden talent: Amateur psychologist (AKA good listener). I tend to be the friend that gets the call in the late evening to help a person through a rough time.

One inanimate thing you can’t live without: My iPhone. I resisted getting one for a long time and now that I have one, I feel like I am missing a body part if I am without it.

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? Yes. Pots and pans from QVC. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? An Ernie “action figure” from Sesame Street. I can’t throw it away

Name: Linda Boden Age: 41 Occupation: Registered Nurse Marital Status: Single Celebrity dream date: David Bowie, of course. We have been in love since I was 12.

He just doesn’t know it.

One word that best describes you: One word?

Honestloyalhardworkingadventurous!

What’s your current Facebook status? Thanking my friend George for taking my son and I to our first yoga class.

Your theme song: “Wild Is The Wind.”

because my sister gave it to me when I was a child and it reminds me of fond memories.

Most unusual ritual: When I leave the house, I have to check twice that all the doors are locked and the iron has been unplugged. It’s almost ODC! Most embarrassing thing to happen on a date: We were riding bikes on a trail and I accidentally ran over a pedestrian. An ambulance was called for the pedestrian and, needless to say, the date came to an abrupt end. In my defense, I can say that I was giving her my undivided attention up until the accident. Oops!

What song is on repeat on your iPod? “I Know You Ryder,” by Monty Byrom and Big House.

What is something you should throw away, but can’t? The pink and orange striped capris I’ve had since seventh grade.

Most unusual ritual: Not unusual but serious. Best not to talk until I’ve had my coffee.

If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be and why? Oh, that’s easy. Laura Bush, so I could spend the day with her husband, George W! I love him!

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? Yes. Banjo Minnows and P90X. If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? Sushi and sake.

Name: Rita Slu ga Age: 57 Occupation: Pu rchasing Marital Status: Single One word that best de scribes you: Determined.

Name one way you’ve gone gr een: Once when I ate a ste ak gone bad.

But seriously, recycling plastic s.

Best-kept local secret: Well, it’s a great secret.

But if I tell, it w ouldn’t be a se cret anymore.

What book is cu rrently on your nightstand?

The Associate

by John Grish am.

What is som ething you should throw away, but can’t ? Maybe give away...all my stuffed animals .

Most unusual ritual: Feeding approximately 10 cats when I get to work and also upon

Name: John Dovichi Age: 24 Occupation: Homebuilder Marital Status: Single Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No...I’m not a stalker.

Love me, love my: Family.

What book is currently on your nightstand?

Not enough time!

What song is on repeat on your iPod? Don’t have one.

Favorite age so far: 23.

Best Cartoon: Bugs Bunny.

Signature first date move: Always a mystery.

leaving work.

I can’t stand to see an imals go hungry.

How old were you when you got your first kiss? Well I sure hope my m other doesn’t read this, but I was 14.

Have you ever purchased an ything off TV? Yes! I purchased an exercise bi ke. They said only four minut es a day and I knew I could squeeze four m inutes in! I did it twice. That was an expens ive eight minut es at $800!

We’d run into you here: Mex icali West. Is there any plac e better?

If we gave yo u $50 for a da te, how would you spend it?

Towards a gr eat seafood dinner at the ce ntral coast.

We’d run into you here: Wool Growers.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? I’d spend it on drinks.

Celebrity dream date: Kelly Pickler.

I purchased an exercise bike. They said only four minutes a day and I knew I could squeeze four minutes in! I did it twice.

Name: Isabel Alvarez Samantha Age: 21 Bryant Age: 34 Occupation: Occupation: Student Editorial Assistant/ Data Specialist II Photographer Marital Status: Single Bakersfield Magazine Marital Status: single Do you Google your date out Threebefore wordsyou thatgo best with them?

NoRandom, need, Bakersfield describe you: sarcastic,has two degrees of so it’s likely I’ve gone to school or andseparation, flirty. worked someone that knows Your petwith peeve is: Aside from slowthem. drivers, Hidden talent: the lyrics almost every people who areI know dishonest.

And to flakes! song regardless of genremen. or age.

Hidden talent: Juggling One word that best describes you: the Justway one? I Personal motto: When you change would have to say optimistic! you look at things, the things you look at What’ s your current Facebook status? “Ladies change. and Gents I’m back ondate the wagon—just Do you Google your before you gofinished out awith 4 mile jog—Whew!” them?

No! I think that would be a little Best-kept local secret: This town is too small for weird. Then again, does finding out where secrets, however, do have the best food. they work, live, andwe running their Luigis, Wool Growers, La Costa, Jake’s Tex credit count?

Mex, Jolly Kone,No. Dewars, you simply cannot Do you Twitter? go wrong.local secret: The amazing views and Best-kept Your theme song: I’d like to think ofhas it as romantic vibe the Park at Riverwalk at more of a playlist. night.

Favorite ageis so far: 10,on those the days...

What book currently yourwere nightstand? riding my but bikea all day manual. and playing in the Not a book camera sprinklers.

What are you most proud of at this point in Best Tough choice. I was once a dieyour Cartoon: life? Having the opportunity and privilege hard fan of TheI work Flintstones andanThe Smurfs, but of saying that for such amazing Imagazine! have to go with The Simpsons.

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? No, but I’ve contemplated that “slap chop thing.” It dices, it slices.

–rita sluga

A perfect night out with friends at Izumo’s on Ming Avenue. You just can’t go wrong with sushi and sake (and fire).

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 35

Fore! It doesn’t get any more casual for a group date at Camelot Park. Hit the greens or the bumper boats. Figuratively, that is.

Name: Carla Watts Age: 26 Occupation: Esthetician Marital Status: Single Do you Google your date before you go out with them? I actually have an app on my iPhone that does background checks on people. So, yes, I do my research. A girl can’t be too careful these days.

One word that best describes you: Spontaneous.

Hidden talent: I love, love, love to sing! Anywhere and everywhere!

Celebrity dream date: Paul Walker!

Celebrity look-alike: People mostly say Jessica Simpson.

What’s your current Facebook status?

“I wanna get chocolate wasted!”

Love me, love my: Family.

Favorite age so far: 26 is going to be my best year!

We’d run into you here: Gym or at the beach.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? A pitcher of beer and a basket of wings.

36 Bakersfield Magazine

Name: Isabel Alvarez Age: 21Arranaga Jessica Occupation: Age: 23 Editorial Assistant/ Occupation: Realtor Photographer Marital Status: Single Bakersfield Magazine Maritalword Status:that single One best describes you: Thrive.

Three words thatyou’ve best Name one way describe you:My Random, gone green: bills aresarcastic, paper-less. I’m saving and trees. flirty. the Youryou pet Google peeve is:your Asidedate frombefore slow drivers, Do you go out people who Yes, are dishonest.

Andalways flakes! take the with them? a girl should Hidden precautions. talent: Juggling men. proper Personal When Love me,motto: love my: Son.you change the way you look at things, the things you look atby Lee Your theme song: “I Hope You Dance” change.

Ann Womack.

Do you Google before you go out Favorite age so your far: 5,date when life was easy. with them?

No! I think that would be two a little Most unusual ritual: Straight hair for days, weird. Then again, does finding out where waves one day. they work,first live,date andmove: running their Signature credit count?

In winter, “I’m cold.”

Doyou youcould Twitter?

No.lives with anyone for one If trade Best-kept secret: views day, wholocal would it beThe andamazing why? My son.and This romantic Park atNoRiverwalk has at and little boy vibe has the it made! responsibilities night.all he wants—all he needs to do is smile gets Whatsay book is currently on your nightstand? and please.

Not bookyou but $50 a camera manual.

If weagave for a date, how would you What are most proud of attake this point spend it? you Jump in the car and a miniinroad your anywhere. life? HavingStop the opportunity and privilege trip at one of those greasy of saying that Iand work for chit-chat. such an amazing burger places then magazine!

Name: Joey M aya Age: 25 Occupation: Correctional Officer Marital Status : Single One word th at best desc ribes you: Fun. Name one w ay you’ve go ne green: Recycle beer cans.

Celebrity drea m date: Megan Fox. Love me, love my: Family.

Your theme so ng: “Big Pimpi n’” by the great Jay-Z. What book is currently on your nightstand? Fi re In The Hole

by Elmore Leonard.

What song is on repeat on your iPod? “One Blood”

by The Game.

If you could trade lives with anyone for on e day, who wou ld it be and why ?

Hugh Hefner ... explains itself.

We’d run into you here: RJ’s.

If we gave yo u $50 for a date, how would you sp end it? Wool Growers.

Name: Derek Howell Age: 46 Occupation: Perfusionist Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Evolving.

Your theme song: “Cowboy In Me” by Tim McGraw.

What book is currently on your nightstand?

The Third Chimpanzee by Jared Diamond.

What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Everything Changes” by Stained.

What is something you should throw away, but can’t? Regret.

Best Cartoon: Speed Racer.

If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be and why? Tom Brady. NFL superstar quarterback, handsome, stylish, fame, married to supermodel...enough said.

We’d run into you here: The gym.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? Buy a nice bottle of wine and find a quiet place to share it.

Celebrity look-alike: Robert Downey, Jr. Love me, love my: Pets.

r ith anyone fo trade lives w ?

If you could hy w d an be Name: would it one day, who amazing is the most Jenny Brouttier e sh — om m y M Age: 30 . person I know to happen Occupation: ssing thing rra ba em t os M d a great an er r Teache te: After dinn da a on ve some ha Marital Status: realizing you conversation, h.

Single your teet food stuck in anything off er purchased ev u yo ve Ha en tempted be ve pe—but I ha No ?

TV go u and beauty fore yo kout videos le your date be to order wor ! te Do you Goog da e. rst fi tim a time to ? Not before products from out with them you here: Dog. to y: in m n ve ru lo e’d e, W Love m Just Wanna song: “Girls At the gym.

Your theme a date, how you $50 for ” n.

If we gave u: yo Have Fu es rib sc end it? that best de would you sp One word tfit. ou w ne a g. n in O Outgo xar. : Anything Pi Best Cartoon

Name: Matt Holden Age: 29 Occupation: Engineer Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Random.

Name one way you’ve gone green: I cycle to and from work as much as possible.

Hidden talent: I do a “wicked good” Boston accent.

Do you Google your date before you go out with them?

Google? No. I’ll check their Facebook, though.

Best-kept local secret: Jimmy Hoffa is actually buried under Memorial Stadium at BC. Don’t tell anyone, though.

Love me, love my: German Sheppard, Milo. He’s ridiculous.

If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who

Name: Steve Carlyle Age: 51 Occupation: Business Owner Marital Status: Single

would it be and why? Myself, at 13. Oh, the things I would tell myself...

Most embarrassing thing to happen on a date: Getting my car towed while out.

We’d run into you here: The gym, Taco Bell, or the pool.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? I’d buy a bottle of wine and cook my signature veggie stir fry. Then a little Cold Stone after dinner.

Name one way you’ve gone green: Changed all the light bulbs in my house to reduce energy consumption.

One word that best describes you: Comfortable.

Love me, love my: Golf addiction.

Your theme song: “Work Hard, Play Harder.”

What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Use Somebody” by Kings of Leon.

Favorite age so far: 51.

Best Cartoon: The Jetsons.

Signature first date move: Be a gentleman.

How old were you when you got your first kiss? 13.

We’d run into you here: Fishlips.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it?

Buy wine, jump in the car, head to the Foothills, and enjoy the stars, the wine, and some good conversation.

If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be? Myself, at 13. Oh, the things I would tell myself...

–MATT HOLDEN

Name: Valerie Isabel Alvarez Black Age: 32 21 Occupation: High EditorialActivities School Assistant/ Photographer Director BakersfiStatus: Marital eld Magazine Maritalbeen Never Status: married single Do you Three words Google that best your describe date before you:you Random, go out sarcastic, with them? No, but and flirty. maybe I should start!

Your pettalent: Hidden peeveSpeed is: Aside texting! from slow drivers, people who Celebrity dream are dishonest. date: George AndClooney. flakes! Besides Hiddenincredibly being talent: Juggling sexy, he men. seems like he could Personal make memotto: laugh. When you change the way you look One wordatthat things, bestthe describes things you you:look Spirited. at change.

Love me, love my: Mutts! Chloe and Kirby.

Do you Your theme Google song: your“Maneater.” date before I’myou kidding, go out I’m with them? kidding!

“I’ve No! GottaI think Feeling” that bywould the Black beEyed a little Peas. weird.book What Thenisagain, currently does onfiyour ndingnightstand? out where The they work, Help

by Kathryn live, and Stockett. running their credit count?

What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Piano Do youI’m Man.” Twitter? on a No. Billy Joel kick right now, for Best-kept some reason. local secret: The amazing views and romantic Have youvibe everthe purchased Park at Riverwalk anything has off TV? at Inight. can’t believe I’m going to admit this, but yes.

WhatShake The bookWeight. is currently I swear on your it works! nightstand?

Not arun We’d book into butyou a camera here: Trader manual.

Joe’s.

What If we are gave youyou most $50 proud for of a date, at this how pointwould in your spend you life? Having it? A nice the opportunity bottle of wine andand privilege some of sayingsnacks yummy that I for work an for evening such an picnic. amazing magazine!

Catching a flick at Maya Cinemas is a great way to spend some time with friends.

Log on to BakersfieldMagazine.net for even more pictures and answers! www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 37

fo r on e da y, it w ho w ou ld ? be an d w hy ld ou w at Th probably be use Oprah, beca es you: rib sc de st ow be kn at I want to One word th to what it’s like ? us at Passionate. st ok bo current Face richest e th be to ht What’s your tever I want! e straig and get wha ot of caffein woman alive te, how “I’ll take a sh da a ” r c! ve you $50 fo se...thanks do ga e w If u, yo the vein plea n’t tell end it? l secret: I ca would you sp d Best-kept loca o mai-tais, an tw s, Two shot it’s a secret! . ds Ki my: appetizers!

Love me, love l rit ua l: I fo ld ng: M os t un us ua ” ff. em fa ci ng Your theme so O ll Fa s he ot Cl el s an d la y th es Her m y ha nd to w ? od ng th e iP “Tequila Mak ci fa ur ld yo fo ct io n, on repeat on th e sa m e di re ck What song is tu ed in . co un te r, ta g 1. ed ge of th e ne “Amber” by 31 yo an ith tra de liv es w If yo u co ul d

ither Name: Lori Ga 33 e: Ag te Employee Occupation: Sta gle Sin Marital Status:

Name: Andie Jenkins Age: 30 Occupation: Country Club Administration Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Witty.

Hidden Talent: It’s still hiding from me.

Celebrity Dream Date: Anthony Bourdain. I find a well-traveled, sarcastic man to be attractive.

Celebrity Look-Alike: Marisa Tomei.

Your Theme Song: “Single Ladies” by Beyonce.

Best Cartoon: Family Guy. It’s hilarious!

Phobias: Spiders and men who won’t commit.

We’d run into you here: Starbucks or Tahoe Joe’s.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? I’d buy a hot dress and let him pay for the rest.

If I know you...

I have Googled you!

Name: Isabel Alvarez Name: Amy McAteer Age: Age: 21 35 Occupation: Occupation: Editorial Assistant/ SR HR Generalist Photographer Marital Status: Bakersfield Magazine Single Marital Status: single One word that best Three words that best describes you: Loyal. describe you:way Random, sarcastic, Name one you’ve gone green: I buy and flirty. environmental-friendly cleaning products.

Your pettalent: peeve is: Asideit from drivers, Hidden I think is myslow singing, but my people who aredisagree. dishonest. And flakes! friends would Hidden Juggling Do youtalent: Google your men. date before you go Personal the way out withmotto: them?When Yes. you If I change know you, I have you look at things, the things you look at Googled you! change.

Best-kept local secret: Me! Do Google your out Oneyou inanimate thingdate youbefore can’t you live go without: with them? No! I think that would be a little Toothbrush. weird.

Then isagain, does finding where What song on repeat on yourout iPod? they work, live,inand running their “Dangerously Love”

by Beyonce. credit count? SpongeBob! Best Cartoon: Do you Twitter?

No. when you got your first How old were you Best-kept secret:when The amazing andof kiss? Fifthlocal grade, I lost aviews game romantic vibe thecompletely Park at Riverwalk has at marbles.

It was innocent! night.

Most embarrassing thing to happen on a What book is currently your nightstand? date: I would have toonactually date to have Not a book but a camera manual. an embarrassing moment.

What run are you proudOutback of at thisor point in We’d intomost you here: your life? Having the opportunity and privilege Shoguns. of we saying thatyou I work an amazing If gave $50for forsuch a date, how would magazine! you spend it? On good drinks!

–Amy McAteer

Name: Name: Brian Isabel Agnetti Alvarez Age: 36 Age: 21 Occupation: Occupation: VP of Farm Equipment Editorial Assistant/Co. Marital Status: Single Photographer Bakersfield Magazine Name waysingle you’ve Maritalone Status: gone green: One of my biggest Three wordspet-peeves that best is littering.

I will carry something describe you: Random, sarcastic, in my hand for andblocks flirty. until I get to a trash can.

One pet word that is: best describes you:drivers, Passionate.

Your peeve Aside from slow Do youwho Google your date And before you go out people are dishonest. flakes! with them?

Yes, I like tomen. see what I’m dealing Hidden talent: Juggling with.

Personal motto: When you change the way Celebrity dream date: you look at things, theSusan thingsBoyle. you look at What’ s your current Facebook status? “I think change. the you reason weyour haven’t heard you fromgoOsama Do Google date before out Bin isn’t because he’be s hiding. withLaden them? lately No! I think that would a little It’s because he has AT&T. weird.

Then again, does finding out where Best-kept Our beautiful they work,local live,secret: and running their bike path.

That was an easy one. credit count?

Love me,Twitter? love my: Young son, Hunter.

Do you No. What book is currently on amazing your nightstand?

Best-kept local secret: The views and The Bible.vibe the Park at Riverwalk has at romantic Most unusual ritual: Every time I buy new night. shoes, I stillisjump up and downnightstand? to see if I can What book currently on your jumpa higher.

Not book but a camera manual.

We’d Body Exchange.

What run are into you you mosthere: proud of at this pointAnd in all the charity eventsthe sponsored by our Bakersfield your life? Having opportunity and privilege Breakfast of saying Lions that I Club. work for such an amazing

Log on to BakersfieldMagazine.net for even more pictures and answers!

38 Bakersfield Magazine

Even grabbing some ice cream at The Marketplace can be exciting (especially during Charlie’s Angels tryouts).

Name: Alvarez Name: Isabel Greg Snider Age: 21 21 Age: Occupation: Occupation: Quality Editorial Assistant/ Engineering Co-op Photographer Marital Status: Bakersfield Magazine Unmarried Marital Status: single Do you Google your Three wordsyou thatgo best date before out describe you: Random, sarcastic, with them?

Nah, I Facebook ‘em. and flirty. look-alike: I’ve been told Shrek.

Celebrity Your pet peeve is: Aside from slow drivers, from However, I would say Gordon Freeman people who are Half-Life dishonest.

Andmy flakes! the video game (with glasses on).

Hidden talent: men. you: MacGyver.

One word that Juggling best describes Personal motto: Whenothers you change the with way life.

Hidden talent: Getting to have fun you look at things, theFacebook things youstatus? look at“Omfg What’ s your current change. roflcopter! There are ants in Santiago Mega’s Do youHahaha Googlethe your date before you go outcar pants!

Malibu that spilled in the with No! I got think be a little on histhem? way over allthat overwould his luggage.

Then weird.

Then does finding outfloor where when he putagain, his luggage on my in the they running their livingwork, room,live, 10 and hours later was swarming with credit count? ants...his entire luggage has ants in it!”

Do No. Loveyou me,Twitter? love my: Music.

Best-kept local Theon amazing views and What book is secret: currently your nightstand? romantic vibe the at Riverwalk hasLive at and Original copies of Park Casino Royale and night.

Let Die. What onon your nightstand?

What book song isis currently on repeat your iPod? “Who’s Not a book but a by camera manual.

Afraid of Detroit” Claude VonStroke.

What are you proud anything of at this point in No. Have you evermost purchased off TV? your Having and being privilege I triedlife? once, but I the wasopportunity impatient with on of saying that I work for such an amazing hold when I called. magazine!

Or, try salsa dancing lessons from the Bakersfield Salseros on Thursday nights at Club Odyssey for some big fun.

Name: Donna Moe Age: 46 Occupation: Pr oject Manager Marital Status: Recently Divorce d

Name: Mark Woodward Age: 40 Occupation: Construction Management Marital Status: Divorced One word that best describes you: Superduper. Oops, that’s two.

Do you Google your date before you go out with them? Heck ya! Gotta check for restraining orders.

Celebrity look-alike: Yeah, they try to look like me.

Best-kept local secret: Luigi’s.

Love me, love my: Kids.

What book is currently on your nightstand?

Can’t read the title...too much dust.

What song is on repeat on your iPod? What’s an iPod? If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be and why? My son, Keller.

Big smile and not a care in the world.

How old were you when you got your first kiss? I think I’m getting amnesia.

Most embarrassing thing to happen on a date: Left my wallet at home.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? Start with a single flower to make her smile.

What is somet hing you should th row away, but ca n’t?

I have an old One word that leather jacket best describes that I you: Independent. bought at the state Celebrity drea fair the first ye m date: Harriso ar I n Fo rd guess Calista to , but I lived in Califo ok care of that rnia, , didn’t she!

What’s your 25 years ago, current Facebo preok status? I haven’t ventur children days. ed onto Face It was such a book yet; it seems a little splurge at the time. It has go high-maintena ne nc in and out of e fo r what I’m up for right style and is a little waterm now. arked, but no Love me, love matter how much closet pu my: Job. rging I do, that Your theme so never makes it to the Good ng: “Unstoppab will or trash pi le.”

Have you ev les.

We’d run into er purchased you here: The anything off TV? I bought new Target on Stockdale. Wha the Magic Bulle t a great plac t and a Shark steam mop. Of e to get lost when you need course, the ne a break, and I xt week they started selling seem to run in to them in Target more clients an . d friends there than if I made appointm ents to see them .

Name: Anisa Laksmono Age: 27 Occupation: Marketing Assistant Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Fun! Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No, I just go with them and see how my heart feels about them.

One inanimate thing you can’t live without: Salsa dancing.

Love me, love my: Dancing and travel times.

What book is currently on your nightstand?

The Bible.

Favorite age so far: Right now.

Best Cartoon: Tom & Jerry.

If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be and why? Nada, my life is great!

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? Nope and not going to.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? Dinner and dancing.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 39

s far was 23. I wa eam dr y m ng rki wo career, happily Age: 26 d r he ac Te enjoying life, an Occupation: mingle!) e (and ready to y legal! gl tel Sin ple s: m tu co Sta l Marita trade If you could u: yo es rib yone sc an de best lives with One word that who y, da e on r fo Responsible. t is baking len ta and en dd be hi My would it anyone for one Hidden talent: trade lives with uld co I If y! y? m wh u ith Hill because yo Fa cakes. Yum re th fo be uld trade lives wi le your date wo I og y, Go da u r Tim McGraw yo Do I have neve d her husband, them? No, I love to sing an t bu , go out with te da y Google-ing m is hot! ything off TV? thought of purchased an ! ea id e th Have you ever f TV was my am of “I thanks for s? ed tu as nt Facebook sta t thing I purch rre las cu e Th ur yo s t’ Wha amazing!

MMER!” CricutCake. It’s you were SO glad it is SU o’s Mexican iag you here: If nt Sa to in t: n cre ru l se ca e’d lo W run into pt ly ke te stni Be u would defi licious! shopping, yo Restaurant. De ). e… r els l’s. my: Baking (o me at Michae Love me, love favorite age so My : far so e Favorite ag

r Brimmer Name: Heathe

Name: Travis Kiner Age: 22 Occupation: Personal Trainer Marital Status: Single Do you Google your date before you go out with them?

No, I Facebook them and ask all my friends about her.

Name one way you’ve gone green: Taking showers with friends.

One word that best describes you: Outgoing.

Celebrity dream date: Jessica Alba.

Your theme song: “Chillin’” by Blain Larson.

How old were you when you got your first kiss?

I was 13.

Name: Isabel Alvarez Age: 21 Bockman Brandon Occupation: Age: 27 Editorial Assistant/ Occupation: Value Photographer Stream Specialist BakersfiStatus: Marital eld Magazine Single Marital Status: single Name one way you’ve Three green: gone words Ithat really best cut describe back on you: non-needed Random,driving, sarcastic,I recycle, and I and floff turn irty.my lights in the house when I leave.

Your pet Those PGpeeve & E Smart is: Aside Meters fromare slow killing drivers, me. people One word who that arebest dishonest. describesAnd you:flakes!

Spontaneous.

Hidden talent: Celebrity dreamJuggling date: Carrie men. Underwood, but Personal she’ s cheating motto:onWhen me with you some change hockey the way player you look right now,atso things, she’s in thethe things doghouse. you look at change.

Love me, love my: Crazy sense of humor and Do you Google your date before you go out personality. with them?

What song No! is on I think repeat thaton would your be iPod? a little Right weird.I’dThen now, haveagain, to saydoes “We fiLaugh nding Until out where We Cried” they by Jason work, Aldean. live, and I love running that song. their credit If you could count?trade lives with anyone for one day, Do you who would Twitter? it beNo. and why? I would trade lives Best-kept with Bradlocal Pitt secret: and then Thego amazing adopt views a bunch andof romantic kids for a vibe day. the Park at Riverwalk has at night. Snakes kind of freak me out.

Phobias: What you Have bookever is currently purchased on anything your nightstand? off TV? No, Not Ia did but book send but in a camera a request manual. for the Hoveround What Company Chair are you most to contact proud ofmy at mom this point as a in prank your on her life? birthday Havingone theyear. opportunity And, yes,and they privilege did call of saying that I work for such an amazing her! magazine!

40 Bakersfield Magazine

Have you ever purchased anything off TV? Snuggy!

We’d run into you here: At the gym.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it?

I would pack a lunch and go to the park for a picnic.

Love me, love my: Dog, Kuna.

My favorite age so far was 23. I was working my dream career, enjoying life, and completely legal!

–HEATHER BRIMMER

You can even go slippin’ and slidin’ with friends at the Bakersfield Ice Sports Center on a warm evening.

We recommend not sliding.

IsabelMedrano Alvarez Name: Dora Age: 27 21 Occupation: Editorial AccountsAssistant/ Payable Clerk Photographer Marital Status: Bakersfi eld Magazine Oh-so-single, baby!

Marital Status: single One word that Threedescribes words that best best you: describe you: Random, sarcastic, Independent. and flirty.

Name one way you’ve gone green: I recycle Yourmy pet bottled peeve is:waters.

Aside from slow drivers, all Hey, have to start people who are dishonest. And flakes! somewhere.

Hidden talent: men.

Celebrity dreamJuggling date: Chris Daughtry, Brad Pitt, Personal motto: When thewouldn’t way Colin Farrell.

I can’t just you pickchange one...that youfair, look at things, be now would the it? things you look at change.

What’ s your current Facebook status? “I DONT Do youTO Google yourWORK date before you go out WANT GO TO TOMORROW!!!!

Why with them?

No! I think that would be a little can’t it stay Sunday for another 24 hours?!?!?!?!” weird. Then again, does out where Best-kept local secret: Thefinding view from the bluffs. theyso, work, live,when and running So, so nice the sun their is setting. credit count?

What book is currently on your nightstand? The Do youforTwitter?

No. guide the Nintendo Wii. Still can’t figure out local secret: The darn amazing views and aBest-kept couple things from that thing. romantic vibe therepeat Park atonRiverwalk has“Learned at What song is on your iPod? night.

My Lesson” by Daughtry.

What Cartoon: book is currently your nightstand?

Best TeenageonMutant Ninja Turtles.

Not a can bookI say? but aI’m camera What weird.manual.

What you are you proud anything of at this point in Yes, Have evermost purchased off TV? yourI life?

Having the opportunity and privilege yes have.

I’ve purchased a workout video in of saying that I work forbooty. such an hopes of lifting up my I’mamazing just too tired magazine! after my jogging to do the darn thing!

The newly remodeled Central Park is a gorgeous locale for meeting up...and feeding some of the park’s resident ducks.

Name: Tracey Bedford Age: 43 Occupation: Bu siness Owner Marital Status: Widow One word that best describes you: Playful.

Name one way you’ve gone gr een: I recycle everyth ing.

Celebrity dream date: Pierce Bro nson or Sean Connery. It has to be the accent or the sexy eyes.

One inanimate thing you can’t live without: Do I have to te ll? It is a toss-up between my pillow and my black lace-up he els.

Love me, love my: My son an d my pesky boxer. She is m y Lucy dog.

What song is on repeat on your iPod? iPod? What is that? I have bought a few of those fo my son. Still ow r e him one that I washed. Shh, maybe he will fo rget.

Name: Blake Goehring Age: 26 Occupation: Financial Advisor Marital Status: Single One word that best describes you: Energetic.

Hidden talent: I can hustle people in darts.

Celebrity look-alike: People say Mark Wahlberg; I don’t really see it.

Love me, love my: USC Trojans.

Most unusual ritual: I don’t know if it is a ritual, but I shower way more than the average person.

Signature first date move: Having my date cook me din ner.

If you could trade lives with an yone for one day, who would it be and why? Anyone that is lying out on the white sands of Nice, France.

Phobias: Height s.

How old were you when you got your first kiss? 13. My m om thinks I was 16.

Most embarrassi ng thing to ha ppen on a date: Being left at a restaurant and having my date, that left me, call and tell me to fi nd a ride home If we gave yo . u $50 for a da te, how would you spend it?

Getting a nice bottle of wine (for the dinner he is making).

What book is currently on your nightstand? Right now, it is Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers, but I also really like Chuck Palahniuk and Dan Brown.

Favorite age so far: Age 25 has been the best so far, but I’m hoping 26 will top it.

We’d run into you here: When I am not at work, you can find me running along the Kern River Parkway, even when it is over 100 degrees.

If we gave you $50 for a date, how would you spend it? I would probably use it on tasting fees at the wineries in Paso Robles. A great way to get to know someone is by sharing new experiences together.

There are so many good wineries and restaurants there—it’s not hard to have a good time.

Name: Dustin Isabel Alvarez Legan Age: 33 21 Occupation: DJ; Editorial Assistant/ Morning show host; Photographer Marital Status: Single Bakersfield Magazine Maritalone Name Status: waysingle you’ve gone green: I ride Three my bike words because that Ibest describe you: misplaced my Random, truck somewhere. sarcastic, Let me know ifand youflirty. find it.

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Personal motto: Celebrity dreamWhen date:youShakira changemixed the waywith you lookBullock.

Sandra at things, the things you look at change.

What’ s your current Facebook status? “Mentally Do you out of it.”

Google your date before you go out with them?

Best-kept local No!secret: I think My thatsister, wouldRachel be a little Legan, weird. is a Russian Thenspy. again, does finding out where they work, What is something live, andyou running shouldtheir throw away, but credit count? can’t?

The good ex-girlfriends.

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I’m serious.

Whatold How book were is currently you when onyou your got nightstand? your first kiss?

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What embarrassing Most are you most thing proudto ofhappen at this point on a in date: your A group life? of Having girls wanted the opportunity my autograph. and privilege What of saying can I say?that I’m famous.

I work for such an amazing magazine!

Log on to BakersfieldMagazine.net for even more pictures and answers!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 41

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“What? You’re unhappy in your job?

They have a group that meets for that you know.

It’s called EVERYBODY and they meet at the bar.”

– Drew Carey

By Gordon Lull Lost in all of the concern over regular jobs is the fact that many labor, often obscurely, at jobs most of us don’t know about. Kern County has its share of those jobs, a sampling of which appears here. Unheralded, thankless, sometimes dangerous, sometimes spooky; don’t bother scanning the Bureau of Labor Statistics for information on these jobs.

Why, we ask Alejandro Nunez, would anyone with an emotional problem consult a parapsychologist?

“That’s easy,” he says. “Let’s say you are a psychologist or psychiatrist and I come to you with a problem. I say, ‘There’s a ghost in my house.’ What are you going to do? Are you even going to take me seriously?”

For Nunez, 28, such a “problem” is not only serious; it’s how he makes his living. Nunez is a fifth-generation parapsychologist who, when we caught up with him in his downtown Bakersfield business office (“Angelorum”), had just returned from a trip to New York City. His client, fearing the demonic possession of an elderly relative, summoned him, all expenses paid. According to Nunez, the problem was nutritional, not devilish. Nunez referred the client to a Manhattan doctor.

“That’s a significant role that a parapsychologist plays,” he said.

“Referrals to competent professionals.” At times, however, Nunez has to deliver the goods himself, as in the cases of: • A family who was awoken nightly by an army of their three-year-old son’s mechanized toys, apparently switched on of their own accord.

Nunez determined a non-ghostly origin: the home carried “an excessive electrical charge.”

• One Bakersfield family suffered from an authentic case of poltergeist

Alejandro Nunez can determine if that ‘bump’ in the night is a poltergeist...or just a mental illness.

‘There’s a ghost in my house.’ What are you going to do?

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 43

Joel Brust, Founder of the Indian Point Ostrich Ranch, holds a baby ostrich. Fun fact: Ostriches grow a foot a month until they become full size.

photo courtesy Christine Kelsey

44 Bakersfield Magazine

“I love my job,” said Nunez. “Seeing people smile is a reward. They want answers.

That’s the business I’m in.”

No need to worry, Cam Weathers tells himself, because strong rubber slats make up the eight-foot fence standing between him and the 10-foot, 600-pound creatures racing toward him. No worry at all.

Cam and sister Kaylie Weathers work at Indian Point Ranch, in Cummings Valley, home to more than 150 ostriches, the largest birds on earth. An increasingly popular protein source, the average ostrich yields 75 pounds of low-fat red meat (high in omega fatty acids), 14-square-feet of ostrich hide, a rich harvest of fashionable feathers, and eggs so large you could scramble just one and feed a family of twelve.

The 20-acre ranch, open every day from May through November, features three types of ostriches: the African Black, friendliest of the three, standing six feet and weighing around 250 pounds; the Blue Ostrich, weighing in at 350 pounds or so, and standing up to eight feet; and the most aggressive, the 10foot-tall Redneck, which can run 40 m.p.h. for up to 20 minutes. But for all their speed and brawn, according to Kaylie Weathers (who served as tour guide at the ranch), intelligence is not the ostrich’s strong suit.

“They had to put rubber slats on the fence,” she said, “because they would run up against the old wooden fences and knock themselves out. I don’t really call them by name because even if one responds and walks towards you, five minutes later they’ve already forgotten their name.”

“You want to know if the economy is good or bad?” asks Bill Sasnett. “Just go to the dump. When the economy is bad people don’t throw things away. That’s what’s happening now. They’re holding on to things.”

Sasnett ought to know. As Director of Benz Sanitation’s Tehachapi recycling operations, he shoulders the respon-

photo courtesy benz sanitation

©istockphoto.com/globalp

activity. After investigation (which he describes as “putting science first, leaving skepticism at home, and asking question after question…”) Nunez determined that spiritual presences were “stuck” at the home and conducted an exorcism.

Nunez claims that 65 percent of so-called “possessions” represent, in fact, “mental issues, disorders of the mind.” For the remaining 35 percent, he performs investigations and, if necessary, exorcisms. His clients have come from as nearby as downtown Bakersfield, from as far away as Tennessee, Washington State, Utah, and Mexico.

Sorting through the rubbish of Kern County residents can be a thankless, dirty job. But someone has to do it.

sibility of “diverting” recyclable, salable materials from the tons of trash arriving by truck daily from Rosamond, Ridgecrest, Mojave, California City, and Tehachapi.

According to Sasnett, the pick-up phase of the operation is not the dirty job some might imagine.

Not so, he cautions, for those who work in the recycling facility.

More than 30 workers, housed in a massive auditorium-sized building and dressed in safety clothing, negotiate a busy maze of conveyors, roll-off bins, and shoots. They separate, by hand, virtually everything that comes in. As bottles, glass, wood, papers, metal, and other items move along the sorting conveyor, each worker snatches the items and drops each down individual shoots to bins below. The full bins are moved to individual compactors which turn the trash into massive squares that are set out in the back of the property for later re-sale and transport.

Not everything gets compacted, though.

“My people have found some pretty weird things,” Sasnett said, “like a 60-pound boa constrictor that was frozen and tossed out.”

Another “save” brought cheers from one local man. Headed off for vacation, the man hid several irreplaceable pistols in the kitchen trash container, assuming that no thief would look there. Upon his return, he forgot to retrieve them or empty the trash.

His wife, knowing nothing about the stash, carried out the garbage bag and it was soon on its way to Sasnett.

“He called up in a panic,” Sasnett said, “but

in two hours we found them. This is a thankless job sometimes. People just dismiss you and say things like, ‘Oh, you just work with garbage.’ Guys like him, though, they give you thanks to make up for it.”

Twelve years ago, Richard Beckey was looking for work, not for himself but for his two teenage sons. “I was really searching for a way they could make a little money and not keep hitting me up for $20 bills,” Beckey said. He scoured newspapers, the Internet, bulletin boards, and local businesses, finally settling upon a small ad promising big profits in worm castings. Translation: “worm poop,” which has an enormously high amount of beneficial microbes. Manure worms (Helodrilus foetidus), he learned, were little “humus” factories, rapidly producing full-spectrum nutrition for plants.

The initial venture began with two wooden fruit boxes in the backyard of his Shafter home. “Yup, there was a ‘yuck factor,’ ” he said, “because everything we did, we did by hand.” While the original business association did not work out, Beckey, a cotton-picker mechanic with nearly a half-century of experience in the Central Valley agricultural industry, used his knowledge and contacts to grow the hobby into a thriving venture. That venture has become one of Kern County’s business success stories. He estimates a tenfold growth from earlier years. Customers

Handful of worm manure anyone? Richard Beckey makes a living with it.

now include private and commercial clients worldwide. So rapidly has his business, Wormsworth, Inc., grown, in fact, that the company is currently in the process of moving to a new, larger location.

One reason for its growth, according to Beckey, has been the development of new products and production processes.

One product, he explained, is a concentrated liquid made from worm castings, much more efficient and inexpensive than delivering tons of humus by truck.

Beckey calls his worms “domesticated,” by which he means “they don’t migrate.

That’s why they’re a lot easier to deal with than cattle,” he observes. “And you don’t have to brand them.”

The man browsed without apparent purpose, surveying the rich bounty of guitars, power tools, DVDs, televisions, and other electronics, all arrayed in somber compactness at W.A. Griffin & Sons Pawn Shop. It was when he scanned the jewelry section, however, that his eyes widened, he gasped, and shouted, “That’s my mother’s ring!”

According to General Manager Chris Espejo, the man had misplaced the diamond ring years earlier and abandoned all hope of its return. “Finding that ring,” Espejo said, “made his whole year. Something like that really makes it worthwhile.”

Like all pawn shops, W.A. Griffin serves as the lender of last resort for many people, especially during difficult times. As Espejo puts it, people can’t simply walk into a local bank, antique clock in hand, and expect to walk away with cash. The pawn shop

His eyes widened, he gasped, and shouted, “That’s my mother’s ring!”

Chris Espejo, general manager of W.A. Griffin & Sons Pawn Shop, is an odd guess for someone who makes dreams come true.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 45

is in the gap for both buyers and sellers.

Shoppers want to spend less money these days. Those desperate for cash get a collateral loan at regulated terms.

For all the happy stories about finding lost rings, however, the accounts of people desperate just to get by seem to accumulate.

“We’re seeing a lot of middle class people coming in,” said Espejo. “The bad economy is hitting everybody now. And we’ve seen a lot more; at least, more than usual, of stolen items come in.” Espejo said that the shop works closely with the BPD, KCSD, and Justice Department to monitor such activity, including carefully recording signatures, thumb-prints, and photographs of those taking out loans.

You know, to make sure everything stays on the straight and narrow.

Don’t even think of calling him a “dogcatcher.” Kern County Animal Control Officer Steve Eirich manages 15 field officers who respond to animal control issues in a jurisdiction covering more than 8,000 square miles. “This job takes a toll on you,” said Eirich at the Mojave shelter. “How many other jobs put you constantly on an emotional level where you’re dealing, almost daily, with negative situations?”

How negative can it get? Eirich has been directly involved in several high-profile control incidents including: A case involving the abandonment, by a Caliente-area “breeding operation,” of more than 100 horses that took months of investigation; the 2005 chimpanzee attack at Havilah’s Animal Haven Ranch, which horrifically injured a visitor; several instances of animal “hoarding,” including the case of Cynthia Bemis who received a year in prison for keeping 250 dogs at her Mojave compound.

“Unfortunately, a lot of our time is wasted on neighbor to neighbor issues,” Eirich said, describing his department’s calls for service.

“We are commonly used as tools of vindictiveness.

During the last 15 years,” he said, “the incidences of animal hoarding have risen dramatically. We’re dealing with no fewer than fifty of these cases

46 Bakersfield Magazine

Steve Eirich explains that his work with Kern County Animal Control isn’t what people assume.

right now in Kern County. The people who hoard animals think, in their own minds, that they’re saving them. It’s an emotional release for them.”

When someone calls Knight’s and asks for “lost and found,” someone is bound to get, um, soiled.

Knight’s Pumping and Portable Services, Inc. delivers portable toilets, more than 3,000 of them, to commercial sites, private residences, and special events throughout Kern County.

And we are not talking oldfashioned, broken down

johns. These are, according to owner/ managers Mark Napier and Tracey Lince (brother and sister), state-of-the-art, clean, sparkling, high-tech portable potties. But when someone “loses” something in a unit, there’s only one place to look.

“There’s no way to avoid it,” said Napier. “Don’t know why you need your cell phone in the toilet but they sure need it after.” One woman, he recalls, asked that her son’s sim card be returned. And there have been other “lost” items. Credit cards, wallets, purses.

Lince, a registered nurse, took over the business with her brother after the death of their father, James Napier, eight years ago.

“I think you can imagine,” she said, “that this was not my dream job, but Mark and I became involved out of loyalty to our dad.

This was his legacy.”

Knight’s portable toilets are not your grandfather’s privies. Elegant, clean, sometimes air-conditioned, with piped-in music, stainless steel “no-touch” sinks... users often become so relaxed that they drop their cell phones. But what is “notouch” for the customers is not so for Knight’s employees. Technological progress has not eliminated the need for oldfashioned cleaning.

“Yes,” said Napier, “we scrub clean them by hand. Some things just never really change.”

The Knight family makes “going” outdoors less difficult—but you can’t major in this line of work.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 47

48 Bakersfield Magazine

The Event of the Decade. Period.

T

Borton Petrini, LLP’s 25th Anniversary Bakersfield Business Conference Oct. 9, 2010

courtesy bakersfield business conference

he 25th Anniversary Bakersfield Business Conference has sold all but a hundred of the 8,500 reserved seats for the full-day program and now is offering half-day passes for general admission, theater-style seating during the afternoon from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. This new half-day pass allows local citizens to experience a taste of the Conference while allowing out-of-town guests to have a chance to make the trek to the Conference a leisurely day trip.

In the past, the only way to attend and enjoy any part of the large event was to purchase a ticket, which provided all-day and night admission into a lush patriotic playground with speakers, fun, food, music, and dancing. The juxtaposition of po-

A patriotic fireworks show will cap off what is sure to be a memorable conference.

©istockphoto.com/richvintage

litical speakers with classic rock ‘n’ roll concerts and fireworks extravaganzas gave the Business Conference its following of devoted attendees from across the nation.

However, there was something that always bothered Conference organizer George F. Martin about the single ticket price. “The pricing of the single all-day

ticket is a great value given the cost of food throughout the day and all the substance and entertainment we deliver at the Business Conference, but it is also a barrier to admission that has made the event inaccessible for members of our community who I’d want to welcome to the Business Conference, who have enjoyed hearing about it in our local media, and who I know would enjoy attending for at least part of the day if the price of admission was lower.

“Over the years, we’ve had many enthusiastic people stay for our evening program and dance the night away, but many others leave after the conclusion of our daytime program to travel home. It didn’t seem fair that people who only want to see the day program should have to subsidize an evening program through a higher ticket price.

Likewise, some people really want to see an entertainer scheduled to perform at the evening show, but aren’t as interested in hearing from platform speakers or enjoying the daytime program.”

So, for the first time, in 2010, the Bakersfield Business Conference will offer

More people will be able to attend the star-studded event this time.

The 2010 Bakersfield Business Conference will offer three kinds of tickets to better serve attendees. three tickets. The first ticket is the full-day event with reserved table-and-chairs seating and includes both the morning and afternoon program. The full-day program is priced at $475 and requires an additional purchase of the evening pass to attend the evening show. In addition, there is also an afternoon program ticket available for people who don’t require reserved table seating and would like to start their day after lunch. The afternoon ticket is available for $165 and also requires an additional purchase of the evening pass to attend the evening show. Finally, the evening show >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 49

The Event of the Decade. Period. ing will probably just want to take a look around and enjoy the experience for themselves. But, at the end of the day, our afternoon lineup by itself would be considered one of the best full-day programs in the country and the price is an incredible value.

This is a great way for us to introduce the Conference to new members of our community for the first time.”

Second, creating a separate ticket for the evening allows organizers to provide assigned seating for the concert that traditionally follows the Conference. This will free attendees to enjoy each other’s photos courtesy bakersfield business conference

will require a separate pass. That pass is priced at $65.

There are at least three reasons why the new approach is the right thing to do and will make the 2010 program an even stronger event.

First, the addition of lower priced, nonreserved tickets will bring a new energy and dynamic to the event. With lower ticket prices, the Conference will be able to welcome more first-time attendees who’ve always been curious, but were never able to attend before. In more ways than one, taking in the Business Conference with someone who has never been before is like introducing someone to Disneyland for the first time. Longtime attendees of the Conference will no doubt approach the event with the sentimentality of a reunion, but it will add to everyone’s enjoyment to see more of the wide-eyed looks of wonder that you typically find on the faces of first time Business Conference attendees. Conference Communications Director Brandon Martin said, “Some of our friends and neighbors who haven’t been able to attend the Conference before because of the traditional pric-

Dynamic speakers, food, music, and dancing energize the night air.

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and companions, and explore the patriotic playground that we’ve built for their enjoyment. We don’t want them worrying about saving a seat.” George Martin added, “It’s always been somewhat difficult to predict how many will stay for the evening and that makes buying and preparing food difficult.

In the past, we’ve overshot the estimates some years and ended up donating much of the food we intended to provide for our evening show attendees. Obtaining a more precise number allows us to provide better quality and reduces waste.”

Third, the evening ticket will allow people to choose to attend the concert and fireworks without having to pay for a day of business

and political content if they aren’t interested in those subjects. George Martin, who was a concert promoter and the owner of a record label before he began practicing law, enjoys the idea of producing an event that caters both to Conference attendees and to members of the community that enjoy classic fifties and sixties rock ‘n’ roll or the music of legendary performer Ronnie Milsap.

“The evening show will be a picnic, concert with dancing, and fireworks celebration. We encourage our speakers to tell it like it is during the day time, which means that in a time of troubling economic and political news, the day time presentation may sometimes be less upbeat than we would like, but we will

have fun and enjoy ourselves in the evening.”

The Conference is not only an economic boost for local businesses who expect increased sales and traffic from visitors, it is also a local celebration that directly or indirectly touches the lives of tens of thousands of members of our community, who enjoy Conference weekend as something of a respite from worries and a time for appreciation. It’s easy to get caught up in the gloom and doom of national headlines and the routine of everyday life, but when the nation’s most sought-after speakers and thoughtful leaders gather for the nation’s most prestigious platform speaking event on a soccer field at your local college, it becomes easy, once again, to remember that great things can and do happen right here in Bakersfield.

The bottom line is that opening the gates to allow a greater number of the event’s local supporters to directly be a part of the show’s inspirational presentation based on their own tastes, interests, and budgets is the right way to celebrate the event’s 25th anniversary.

Tickets for the event are available online at www.bakersfieldconference.com or by calling (661) 371-2204. v

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 51

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Dorothy frequently said, “There’s no place like home.” What she failed to mention was how complicated the process can seem for those folks looking to get into their dream home. So, we went to real estate agents and home loan lenders to debunk those myths about buying a home today (whether it’s here, or in Kansas).

Plus, relevant profiles from some of the most-trusted local resources in the home-building industry, so you can easily find yourself holding the keys to your very own dream home.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 53

54 Bakersfield Magazine

Hot Neighborhoods Where should you be shopping for the best home values?

“The buyer incentives have increased home buying for both resale and new construction.”

And while there are a number of homes on the market, either due to past foreclosures or short sales, there is still a greater population of people looking to buy.

It’s one of the main reasons why there are multiple offers on homes in good locations. “It can be frustrating to home buyers looking for the best opportunity,” Malouf added. But it’s ultimately good news for the industry.

That’s something Leslie Walters of Walters & Associates Realty would agree with.

“In the last year, more owneroccupied homes are coming on the market. They are well-maintained and a delight to sell.”

“We’re also seeing a large segment of cash investors,” added Scott Tobias of Prudential Tobias Realtors®. “And while prices have risen in the past year, homes are still affordable and with low interest rates, buying a home can often times be less costly than renting.”

According to Mary Christenson, “lenders have loosened up criteria on jumbo financing a little, making jumbo rates more competitive with conforming loans. We’re no longer in the ‘declining market’ syndrome that we faced for the last three years.”

In fact, Christenson says that last year, only three homes in the entire city sold for over $1 million. This year, she’s happy to report, we’ve already closed four homes at over $1 million. “And I know of at least four more to come in the near future. Prices are down, obviously, but opportunities are there!”

So if it’s truly a buyer’s market, what neighborhoods are seeing the most action right now?

“Predominately, the Southwest and the Northwest has seen the largest growth in our market,” Olson explained. But that doesn’t mean that sales on the east side of town don’t go just as fast, she added. >> ©istockphoto.com/cookelma

T

here has been a lot of coverage of the real estate industry over the past year. There have been highs and lows for both buyers and sellers since we entered the economic downturn.

For the most part, however, there’s been a lot of good news emerging in the recent months. For one thing, there are a number of properties available and new homes are being listed every day. For another, there is a large number of buyers around looking to get into a home. So with new properties coming on the market each day, where should potential buyers be looking? Well, as they say in Real Estate, it’s all about location, location, location. Oh, and personal preference.

There are a lot of great neighborhoods in Bakersfield.

We’ve got the Southwest, the Northwest, Westchester...the list goes on and on. Every neighborhood has something to offer, whether it’s close to downtown, close to good schools, or near lush scenery.

But how does one tell which neighborhood is right for them? If you’re looking to buy, where should you be buying?

Some of Bakersfield’s best-known real estate agents weighed in on the market, what’s in the cards for next year, and where you should be looking when you find yourself in the position to buy a home.

According to Theresa Olson, a Broker Associate with Coldwell Banker Preferred, “the Federal and State Tax Credit has been a benefit for first-time buyers and for new construction.

If you were unaware, a significant tax credit (up to $8,000) was available for first-time home buyers in 2009 and 2010, with the closing date in April of this year.

“Couple that with the low interest rates and affordable prices and buyers have had wonderful opportunities this past year.”

Gail Malouf, 2010 President of the Bakersfield Association of Realtors® Board of Directors added,

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 55

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“The ‘west quarter’ is always popular and has the most activity in sales right now,” Walters said. “But Bakersfield Country Club, La Cresta, Westchester, Oleander, and Old Stockdale are neighborhoods that are always in demand.”

“The neighborhoods of Seven Oaks, Grand Island, Brighton, and Brimhall still remain very popular, especially with the influx of oil company transferees,” Christenson added. “We’ve also seen a demand for the Active Adult communities as the Baby Boomers decide they Theresa Olson want to move down to smaller homes, and buy second homes at the beach, as they become Empty Nesters.”

And according to Malouf, both the Southwest and Northwest are staying popular with buyers, so there are a lot of purchases taking place in those areas of Leslie Steven Walters Hurd town.

So while all the agents we spoke with seemed happy to report that because of the first-time buyer tax credit and new-build incentives, there are a lot of people who are looking to buy a house for the first time, there are also folks out there looking to relocate, “move up,” and

The ‘west quarter’ is always popular and has the most activity in sales right now. But Bakersfield Country Club, La Cresta, Westchester, Oleander, and Old Stockdale are neighborhoods that are always in demand. – Leslie Walters

56 Bakersfield Magazine

are seeking new homes for retirement. This diversity is also good for the market as it adds diversity to the neighborhoods.

“Many single men and women professionals, born after ’77 (Generation Y), are a prominent buyer market, taking advantage of the short sales and foreclosures. They are Internet savvy, educated, and aware of their buying power,” Christenson added.

Still, with so many new buyers, Walters has noticed that “FHA

financing is back in popularity, appraisals are being scrutinized, and buyers should have formal loan approval before going out to purchase a property with an agent.”

So are there specific areas of town where the gettin’s good? Maybe particular areas that are best when a buyer has certain needs?

“Over all, buying a home is a personal preference,” Tobias explained.

“While certain neighborhoods are popular, people’s tastes are different.”

Some of the agents we talked to did provide their picks for the neighborhoods they Gail Malouf recommend in various price ranges.

Both Olson and Malouf suggest the Northwest and Southwest for a moderate or family home and even if you’re looking for something exquisite. But that the Northeast and country club areas also Scott Tobias offer fantastic properties.

If you’re looking to invest, “all areas of Bakersfield have good investments now.”

Walters pinpoints the Westchester area, north of 24th Street, as a great place to find a starter home. Alta Vista, North Meadows,

Over all, buying a home is a personal preference. While certain neighborhoods are popular, people’s tastes are different.

If you’re looking to invest, all areas of Bakersfield have good investments right now. – Scott Tobias and Campus Park all have great properties for first-time buyers, as well. For a family, San Lauren, Madison Grove, and The Oaks are the places to find the right place. If you’re looking for something more fancy, Walters suggests Seven Oaks, Haggin Oaks, Stockdale Estates, and Bakersfield Country Club.

“And if they’re looking to invest, go with any neighborhood that pencils,” she quips. >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 57

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home neighborhoods, Haggin Oaks and Stockdale Estates for a family home, and Seven Oaks and Olde Stockdale for folks in the market for exquisite homes.

Olson feels the market trends will stay the course for the coming year, with a gradual increase in pricing. And Malouf agrees that the market will remain

River Oaks and Grand Island Place are good starter-home neighborhoods, Haggin Oaks and Stockdale Estates for a family home, and Seven Oaks and Olde Stockdale for folks in the market for exquisite homes. –Mary Christenson “pretty much” the same for the rest of this year and into 2011.

“I don’t anticipate a lot of change in the market,” Tobias added. “It will take another couple of years...but buyers will continue to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Which is good news for those of us looking to buy in the coming year.

And of course, it’s good news for Bakersfield.

Is it Time to Buy? Have you been asking yourself...

©istockphoto.com/akurtz

e all love that old adage that home is where the heart For DuBose, the biggest piece of advice she can give is to make is. But, let’s be honest...home is also where you insure you’re pre-qualified for a home loan before you start talking vest a lot of your money. And in today’s market, that with a real estate agent. money has to stretch a lot farther. But that doesn’t “You have a better idea of what you can afford, and you won’t be mean you can’t move into a home of your own. In fact, looking at homes you shouldn’t be looking at,” she elaborated. it appears that now, more than ever, is the right time to begin the But surely the process is harder than it used to be, what with so process of buying or building many changes in the industry. your dream home.

“The process has become Even so, unless you hapmore paper-intensive,” said pen to have over $100,000 Steven Hurd, a VP and Mortin cash in your pocket right gage Loan Officer with Bank now, chances are, if you want of America in Bakersfield, of to buy a house, you’ll need to getting a loan. “But it’s not apply for a home loan. But it’s more difficult...the restricnot the complicated ordeal tions aren’t tighter.” it can sometimes seem. The As Shinn explained, FHA process can be quite straightinterest rates today are hisforward as long as you know torically low. “In January of what to expect. That’s where 1982, anything around 17 home mortgage lenders can percent was a prime rate,” really help. she added.

“I always tell people to Today, interest rates hover come to us first,” said Mararound 4.75 percent. “And got Shinn, a home mortgage It appears that now, more than ever, is the right time to begin that’s with the FHA’s current consultant with Wells Fargo rate of 3.5 percent down,” the process of buying or building your dream home.

Home Mortgage in BakersShinn said. “So if you’re looking to buy a $100,000 house, you’ll only need $3,500 down.” field. “The last thing we want is to find out you won’t qualify for a loan after you’ve found your dream house.”

Still, just because you can afford a much larger down payment, So before you go home shopping, make sure your finances are does it mean you have to buy a larger, more expensive house? in order. “Speak with your lender, have them run your credit, and The answer is no. make sure you’re in a position to get a home,” Shinn explained.

“There are many other factors that go into getting a home Shinn has potential buyers start keeping very close attenloan...not just how much you can afford for a down payment,” tion to their finances before they get too far into the proDuBose explained. cess. Keep receipts for everything, she advised. At the end “For starters, we ask that people bring in their most recent check of one month, see how much money you’ve spent on exstubs, two years of W-2s, and a bank statement showing you have traneous things. Could that money be set aside and saved? the money in your savings to cover a down payment.” There is “It’s especially important for first-time buyers to come in and talk other paperwork that may be required, but these initial forms with a lender before they attempt to go looking for a home,” said will help a lender get you started with a home loan application.

Linda DuBose, Home Loan Center Manager for Kern Schools FedBut there is one area that counts a bit more than others, right? eral Credit Union. “Many of them don’t know the Your credit score. The general consensus is that your questions they need to ask, so we can give them the FICO score needs to be above 600. Some lenders information they need before a problem comes up.” and underwriters require a higher score of 620 >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 59

Is it Time to Buy? or 640, but, as DuBose further elaborated, “scores can get complicated because there are other factors a credit lender will look at.”

As Hurd explained, in addition to the other things lenders inspect, there are other things on your credit score and income statements that could hurt you.

“If you have expense accounts or get reimbursements through your work, it’s very important to have those records,” he explained. “If you don’t have record of getting that money back, we take Margot Shinn it off of the gross income statement you have when you apply.”

It makes sense. A lender can’t just assume you’ve got the money or will be getting it back soon.

“So we [Bank of America] look very carefully at a bank statement. And Steven Hurd in addition to your income, we’re looking at what transactions take place with that account.

Like if you are depositing and withdrawing large amounts of cash and can’t source where the money came from or went to, we consider that an invalid account.”

If someone has had credit problems in the past, they should try and come to a lender with 12 months of good credit history. Even if that means waiting on buying your dream home.

But it never hurts to start planning now. – Steven Hurd

60 Bakersfield Magazine

It could be harmless enough, Hurd said. He gave an example of a man who was loaning thousands of dollars to family, which was paid back shortly after, but there wasn’t a statement or written explanation of those withdrawals and deposits. So when the bank was looking at his account, they weren’t able to confirm his regular monthly expenses.

“I recommend, if a person does have a lot of discrepancies on their

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account statements, to come with letters of explanation,” he added.

Still, DuBose added, “even if your credit score is fine for buying a home at the moment you apply, you can affect your score between the time you put in an application and when the sale closes by applying for lines of credit elsewhere.” A person might be so excited that they’re buying their dream home, that they’ll want to decorate with all new furniture and apply to open credit cards with furniture and department stores. But

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Make sure you’re pre-qualified for a home loan before you start talking with a real estate agent. You have a better idea of what you can afford that way, and you won’t be looking at homes you shouldn’t be looking at. – Linda DuBose the more lines of credit you try and open at one time, the more your bank or credit union starts to worry. So if it’s your first house you’re looking to buy and don’t have a stellar credit score, hold tight on the new purchases.

“Right now, I’m working with a large percentage of first-time buyers,” Shinn said. “ So the excitement is high. These are people who thought they never would have been able to afford a house in the past.

They thought they couldn’t put enough down, or afford the mortgage payments.

Some of them assumed that because they were denied a car loan in the past, that they’d never be able to get a home loan, and that’s Linda DuBose simply not the case.”

For one thing, it’s harder to qualify for a car loan, according to Shinn. It’s because cars are mobile—they can hide. They are a movable asset; there’s more liability there.

Hurd said there are still a large number of FHA loans going out.

“We’ll look at other factors besides the FICO score. Even if they have a credit score below 600, we’ll work with someone looking to get a home loan. There are compensating factors. For example, if they’ve got 12 months of good credit history with PG & E, we’ll consider that alternate credit.”

Still, Hurd recommends that if someone has had credit problems in the past, they should try and come to a lender with 12 months of good credit history. Even if that means waiting on buying your dream home. But it never hurts to start planning now.

“If someone is looking to buy a home in the next year, they should start talking with someone now,” DuBose explained. “The rates are at their lowest.”

Shinn and Hurd agree. It’s a good time to be looking into moving into your dream home.

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Bakersfield Business Conference Syllabus Don’t Miss Your Chance to Own a Piece of History!

Included in Bakersfield Magazine’s October Issue will be The Official 25th Anniversary Bakersfield Business Conference Syllabus.

Packed with the bios and photos of the World’s Greatest Speakers, as well as history on the conference, and the agenda of this historic day’s events.

That’s right...the only way to get a copy of this priceless keepsake is in Bakersfield Magazine, a copy of which will be given to each Conference attendee! Only a handful of copies will be available after the event, so to ensure you get yours, make sure your subscription is up-to-date. If you haven’t subscribed yet, do so by going to bakersfieldmagazine.net or by calling (661) 834-4126.Your subscription must arrive in our office by 9/24/10 to receive this special collector’s issue. –Don’t delay.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 61

special advertising section

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing The Punctual Plumber

Jennifer & Michael Jones, owners of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Bakersfield is a city that was built on the dreams of industrious people—self-made people. Today, it is populated with the same type of determined entrepreneurs; folks who are willing to work hard and help the community. Michael Jones is one of those people. The company he founded in 1996, Pioneer Plumbing Service, still operates on the same principles today: great customer service and skilled workmanship.

“It was 1992, and I was just out of the military,” Jones explained. “At my first job out, I was running a shovel for another plumbing company.”

However, Jones had other things in mind.

He knew he wanted to have his own business someday. So, four years after he started working for another man, Jones received his contractor’s license and decided to work for himself.

“At that point, I knew I had enough experience,” he added. “And it was just me.

I got a loan from family members to buy a used Toyota plumbing truck. Then I took

some money to a flea market and got all my tools.” Needless to say, it was tough starting up.

“I was taking every job I could get. That first year, it was all about maintenance and drains,” Jones continued. “Then, in 1997 and 1998, I began working with new construction, setting up plumbing for new builds.”

During that period in his life, Jones worked harder than he had ever worked before. “I knew that for the business to continue being successful, I would need to hire some additional people.”

Pioneer Plumbing Service began handling commercial builds as well as residential construction for the biggest names in Bakersfield custom home building, including Todd Sweaney, Phil Gaskill, Dave Packer, Essex Homes, John Balfanz Homes, and McMillin Homes. Having such seasoned home builders recommending Pioneer Plumbing was a boon for the growing company.

“I believe our success comes from the fact that we are always very honest with our

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62 Bakersfield Magazine

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customers. We always want to exceed expectations,” Jones added.

And that’s where Benjamin Franklin Plumbing enters the equation. In a continued effort to satisfy his customers, Jones expanded his construction plumbing business and incorporated the long-standing franchise, which focuses on services and repairs, in July 2009. That move put Jones in charge of an all-encompassing, full-service business.

“Benjamin Franklin is a great company!

We are part of Clockwork Home Services and this year we were part of Donald Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice on NBC. We make sure the customer comes out on top.

We truly do offer 24-hour service and, as far as I know, we are the only plumbing company in Bakersfield that has an on-time arrival guarantee or we pay our customers $5 per minute for every minute we are late.”

Jones and his entire staff are not interested in offering good service, they’re interested in offering exceptional service.

BenFranklinPlumbing.com

special advertising section

Jost Carpet One Floor & Home Locally Owned & Operated Since 1946

Ryan Jost, Duane Jost, and Troy Jost Established in 1946, the Jost Floor Company formed when brothers Chester and Martin Jost of Hillsboro, Kansas set up their homes in Bakersfield. After serving in the Army, the brothers bought flooring equipment and tools from the armory surplus store, and, with a lot of moxie and ingenuity, taught themselves how to sand and refinish hardwood floors. These humble beginnings would lead the brothers into a business of hardwood floor installations that would grow for generations.

In 1950, a partnership was formed with Jim Ledbetter. Jost & Ledbetter Floor Company became the largest wood floor business in the county. But after the Ledbetter partnership dissolved a few years later, the brothers continued installing school gym floors up and down the state. One of their largest hardwood floor installation jobs was the Bakersfield College gymnasium.

In the late ‘50s, a gravitation away from hardwood floors ushered the flooring business into a full service store with a variety of

products. Jost’s drapery workroom and talented professionals offered comprehensive room designs to Bakersfield homes.

In 1960, Chester was able to buy out his brother. It wouldn’t be long before people were hearing “You Get the Most from Jost.”

In 1968, fresh out of college, Chester’s son, David, started working in the family

Jost Floor Company is in its 64th year and the continuation of this family business is a high priority. business. And in 1977, son Duane returned, allowing the brothers to buy out their father in 1990.

It was in 1991 that the company joined a nation-wide buyer’s co-op, Carpet One. This joint venture, Jost Carpet One, has allowed Jost to compete and survive in an ever-changing industry.

January of 2010 saw Duane buying out David. Duane’s sons, Troy and Ryan, share a similar story to that of their dad and uncle.

They grew up in and worked in the busi-

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ness. Troy started working full time at Jost Floor in 1998. Like his father, he learned the business from the floor up!

In 2001, after high school, Ryan joined the Army. Ryan’s military service included a tour in Afghanistan and another in Iraq with the 2nd Battalion 504 Parachute Infantry Regiment. Ryan entered the family business with a renewed interest and energy.

Chester Jost once said there’s nothing that has made him happier than having his sons in business with him. Duane’s heart echoes that sentiment. Jost Floor Company is in its 64th year and the continuation of this family business is a high priority.

Duane, Cher, and their sons do not take for granted the privilege of being in a family business. A dream, a passion, started long ago with the challenge of keeping it going and keeping it giving. Over these many years, the business has been blessed with dear and wonderful employees, their hard work, and loyalty that is appreciated more than they may know.

JostCarpetOne.com

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 63

First Assembly of God Pastor James Lair

Sunday Services: 8:30am, 10:45am and 5:30pm Sunday School: 9:45am – All Ages

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Wed. Night: Family Dinner 5:30-6:30pm Classes for all ages 7pm

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GARDENING WITH MRS. P

Those labels on your new plants might just be trying to tell you something...

Tends to Spread.

L

By Lynn Pitts

Blooms spring through fall. If it’s a perennial, let me know about it, because I have never run into such a creature.

Needs well-drained soil. Your work is cut out for you. Order mountains of compost before planting.

Moist but well-drained soil. Unknown substance in Bakersfield.

Keep soil evenly moist. Someone’s idea of a joke after July 4.

Ground cover. Be on guard; it’s a spreader and fine if you really need ground cover for your back 40. But it can be a take-over artist in a normal size yard.

Tends to spread. Wholesale growers hate to admit this so if they put it on a plant label, believe it. Likewise, run; don’t walk away from offers of free divisions of ornamental strawberry, ice plants, trailing African daisy, Snow-in-Summer, and ivy. Bamboo is another spreader and the adjective “rampant” does not nearly capture its wanton running wild ways.

Prefers poor soil. This explains why hollyhocks, nasturtiums, and California poppies do poorly in your garden but seem to flourish growing out of cracks in the sidewalk.

Dwarf form. Just means it’s smaller than the species. It could still be 12 to 18 feet high.

Grows 8 feet in one season. Oh, boy, is that scary or what? Do you really want or need a monster in your yard? The Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) comes to mind. Growing quickly to 50 feet tall (with a 50 foot spread), this tree is not, repeat not, for the average 5,000 to 10,000 square foot residential lot. Yes, the trumpet shaped flowers in spring are beautiful and intensely fragrant, but that is its only saving grace. >>

©istockphoto.com/stockcam

ike fortune cookies, the cryptic phrases on plant labels require some interpretation. For the clueless gardener, Mrs. P is here to decode the tag notes. No question that it’s important to read labels to get a sense of what conditions a plant will thrive in, and how big it ultimately will get. However, infatuated gardeners tend to ignore the latter. They take the Scarlett O’Hara approach and say they’ll think about it tomorrow. It’s actually quite important to know how to translate the very minimal instructions on a plant label. Herewith, then, is my guide.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 65

Gardening with Mrs. P

©istockphoto.com/abarra

Bloom.

Repeat.

66 Bakersfield Magazine

None of the above is meant to disparage all plant labels; it’s good to use them as a guide and understand that they’re only part of the real story.

Oh, I almost forgot to share something with you that I found interesting.

On these lazy summer days, I like to sit on the patio and catch up on reading while my tower mister sprays coolness.

One book I’ve just finished, The Secret Lives of Somerset Maugham, had an interesting side story. Maugham was an avid gardener and lived most of his life in the south of France at his house, Villa Mauresque.

Known for serving guests delicious food from his garden, a great “specialite de la maison” was an avocado ice cream. This rich concoction of mashed avocado, Barbados rum, sugar, and cream was offered on hot summer evenings. The avocados were picked from trees grown from baby trees which Maugham had smuggled back in his golf bag from California. They are believed to be the first avocados to be grown in France. Who knew? In the event you’d like to try something different, here’s a recipe from my friend, Georgia, whose family has grown avocados, commercially, for almost 100 years. v

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dar ro

Acid soil. If you live in England, you’ll have acid soil. If you live in Bakersfield, your soil will be more alkaline on the pH scale. Acid soil is most common where it rains a whole lot. Our measly five inches a season does not qualify as an acid soil maker. You can add sulfur, compost, manure, and acid fertilizers, such as Mir Acid. Another option for growing plants that need acid soil (camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas for example) is to plant them in containers or raised beds filled with soil mix for acid-lovers. This is not to dissuade you, just to let you be aware that some plants will do better in acid soil.

Disease resistant. Not a guarantee.

I have proof.

Hardy to 30 degrees.

Not hardy.

kp ho

Otherwise it’s a mess. Big seed capsules and giant elephant ear-sized leaves fall constantly to smother your yard. Trust me, this tree is, like the Ray Price song, an “Invitation to the Blues.”

Grows 5 feet by 5 feet. Woe to those of us who ignore the horizontal dimension. Pretty soon, we’ll have a bully in that 3-foot-wide-space and this plant will oppress all comers.

Plant 24 inches apart. Hard to do when you have bare space, and the plants are teeny tiny. But this is another term to pay attention to when planting perennials. Annual flowers are OK being planted cheek by jowl, in my opinion.

Sun or light shade. In Bakersfield?

Are they kidding? What this term really means is do not plant in full sun, especially hot western sun. Just the words “light shade” means dappled shade is the most plant-friendly exposure. And it must belong to those mythic people who have well-drained soil.

Continuous bloom. If it’s a rose, this generally means repeat bloom. It will bloom, rest and gather strength, and have other successive bursts of bloom.

In other words, it will bloom in waves rather than continuously.

is t ©

p ho t o

oc

by brybs

Avocado Ice Cream 2 ripe avocados

(approximately 1 1/4 cups)

3/4 cup sugar 1 cup whole milk 1 cup half-and-half 2 to 4 tbsp. dark rum 2 tsp. vanilla In a food processor, combine above ingredients and whiz for two minutes, until mixture is very smooth and you can’t feel any grains of sugar in it.

Chill for up to 24 hours if not using right away. Pour into ice cream maker and freeze according to directions. Store in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s delicious topped with toasted, chopped pistachios...or hot fudge.

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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PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHEVRON TECHNOLOGY VENTURES

By now, many of us are aware of how integral the sun is to our daily lives. There are the obvious biological needs that the sun meets, like helping us absorb vitamin D (no one wants rickets) and providing energy for plants to photosynthesize (so that we can breathe). And, of course, there are solar energy benefits that we’re tapping into for a variety of reasons that will be helpful to us well into the future.

But do you remember when you were little and you dreamed about what the future would look like? We’d all be driving solar/hover cars, eating food in pill form, and possibly wearing Jetson-like clothing.

Let’s be honest, though, the angular collars on those space-aged outfits aren’t the most flattering—and could probably put out an eye.

Still, for all the resources the sun provides for our future, it also has the potential to impact the present in ways we don’t fully utilize.

And one of the biggest ways the sun’s power helps people today is by being harnessed to cook food and purify water.

The sun can cook food? Sure. Haven’t you ever tried to fry an egg on the pavement on a hot, summer afternoon? It might not have turned out that well (perhaps slightly dirty) and we certainly don’t recommend actually eating items of food that have been cooked on asphalt (we hear gravel is bad for the lower intestine). Still, if the sun can power a car or generate enough energy to turn a light bulb on, why can’t it be used to cook a steak?

It’s actually not a new concept, but as of the late, more and more green companies are producing solar cookers. >>

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According to Solarcooking.org, solar cooking is the simplest, safest, most convenient way to cook food without consuming fuels or heating up the kitchen.

“After a a bit of experience,” the website boasts, “you’ll see how readily you can adapt your present cooking and baking to solar cooking. Using the solar cooker can actually reduce the total amount of effort in meal preparation. Also, cooking outside in the summer allows you to eliminate extra heat in the house. With solar cooking, you start your meals early in the day and then relax.”

It may sound futuristic, but it’s pretty simple.

“Most food, with the exception of cookies and open-faced cheese sandwiches, are cooked in containers with the lids on. The dark, speckled GranitWare pots are the best for most of the cooking and baking in the solar cooker. (The 9-inch round roaster makes a beautiful round loaf of bread). Be sure to use hot pads when removing the pots from the oven; the pot will be very hot!”

There are three types of cookers according to Solarcookers.org.

photo by Xuaxo

Box Cookers Box cookers cook at moderate to high temperatures and often accommodate multiple pots. Worldwide, they are the most widespread. There are several hundred thousand in India alone. A simple solar box cooker with one reflector cooks at temperatures between 250 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Curved Concentrator Cookers Curved concentrator cookers, or “parabolics,” cook fast at high temperatures, but require frequent adjustment and supervision for safe operation. Several hundred thousand exist, mainly in China.

They are especially useful for large-scale institutional cooking.

Panel Cookers Panel cookers incorporate elements of box and curved concentrator cookers. They are simple and relatively inexpensive to buy or produce.

Everyone who’s ever cooked using a solar cooker or solar oven would say to start simple. If this is your first attempt at solar cooking, start with something easy—solar cooking websites suggest chicken, rice, zucchini, or quick breads such as banana bread. A baked potato is also an easy item to start with, just don’t cover it in aluminum foil as you would when baking it in the oven. You only need put the potato in a dark, covered pot. But don’t add water.

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Inexpensive solar cooking pots can be ordered online from many various websites.

The great thing about solar cookers is that food such as roasts, stews, casseroles, poultry, potatoes, carrots, pot roasts, and rice are almost impossible to overcook. Timing isn’t an issue.

As described on Solarcooking.org, “chicken will still be juicy and will fall off the bone when solar cooked four hours instead of the needed two hours. The major advantage of solar cooking is the flexibility in cooking times.”

Here are some things to remember: • The golden rule of solar cooking is: Get the food on early and don’t worry about over-cooking.

• You do not need to stir food while cooking. However, it’s OK to check the food if you quickly replace the lid.

• Place the hard-to-cook or larger quantity items in the back of the cooker where they will receive more direct sun.

When using several pots, place the easy-to-cook food in the front of the cooker.

• Many meals may be cooked without refocusing the solar cooker, and you will learn by experience.

Just face the cooker so that halfway through the cooking time the sun will be right in front of the cooker with the prop stick casting a shadow on the proper stick holder.

With lots of food, or on less than fully sunny days, refocus the oven once or twice.

• To bake cakes or bread in a solar box cooker, preheat the cooker for at least a half hour before adding the food.

• If you are cooking a large amount of food, it will cook more quickly if distributed between two or three smaller pots instead of one large pot.

• Allow plenty of time. Foods hold well in the solar oven without scorching or drying out.

• Most recipes calling for a higher temperature will do fine if you give them more time.

• Time for cooking depends on the temperature of the food as it is placed in the oven, as well as the brightness of the day.

However, there are some general time blocks that are given and recommended for certain types of foods and using simple box cookers. Foods like eggs, rice, fruits, vegetables, fish, and poultry need between one and two hours of cooking. Potatoes, most other meats, breads, and some beans take three to four hours. Large roasts and stews can take anywhere from five to eight hours. But that’s hardly any different

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special advertising section

Castle & Cooke The Best of Bakersfield

The Villas at Seven Oaks reflect California’s rich Spanish heritage.

They say everyone needs a dream. If you dream of a quality home that fits your lifestyle perfectly, then Castle & Cooke has just the place for you. With a variety of Castle & Cooke communities to choose from there are a full range of options for every buyer’s budget.

For over 25 years, Castle & Cooke California, Inc. has been transforming life in Bakersfield with the concept of Friendly Neighborhood Design™—five key principles that have always set Castle & Cooke communities apart. Master Planning that fosters open space and a connection to nature; Uniquely designed homes with authentic architectural detail and livable floor plans; Creative Site Planning that engenders “community” through recreational facilities and natural gathering places; Inspired Landscape Design that results in beautiful streetscapes and manicured greenbelts; and a dedication to Green Building practices that has earned Castle & Cooke the title of “Energy Efficient Builder of the Year” from the Home Builders Association of Kern County.

Castle & Cooke practically invented the concept of master planning and whatever you desire in your new home, you’ll find it in a Castle & Cooke’s community. Topping the list is The Villas at Seven Oaks. Nestled on the first fairway of Seven Oaks Country Club this exclusive gated community of 29 homes is the last that will be built on the golf course. The classic Spanish architecture of these beautiful homes captures the

The classic Spanish architecture of these beautiful homes captures the romance of early California. romance of early California. Many feature arched windows, Mexican tile, wrought iron accents, low maintenance stucco exteriors and warm earth-tone colors. The Villas at Seven Oaks presents the unparalleled opportunity of a refined yet casual country club lifestyle in a home that reflects your unique personality, taste and style. Homes in The Villas start in the high $400,000s.

Home buyers who prefer an active lifestyle

10000 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield

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661.664.6039

to yard work will find University Park the perfect blend of convenience, recreation, and low maintenance homes. With easy access to The Marketplace, CSUB, and The Shops at Riverwalk, University Park is in the center of everything. But with its stunning homes, park-like setting, meandering landscaped walkways, and resort-style swimming pool, many residents are quite content to enjoy their quiet, gated privacy. Homes in University Park start in the low $200,000s.

At Village Green, one of Castle & Cooke’s newest gated communities, families enjoy a child-friendly environment. A grassy central park is filled with picnic tables, playground, a lushly landscaped beach-entry pool, and a children’s water spray park. Streets are even designed to be safer by controlling traffic flow. And, of course, the homes are pure Castle & Cooke, featuring comfortable floor plans and classic architecture. Homes in Village Green start in the low $200,000s.

When it comes to affordable quality, nothing can beat Liberty at Silver Creek. Liberty homes feature the quality construction and attention to detail for which Castle & Cooke is famous at a price that makes them easily accessible. Combined with outstanding parks and recreational amenities, it’s a community you will be proud to call home. Homes in Liberty start in the mid $100,000s.

And finally, Brighton Parks is Bakersfield’s premier gated active adult community. The theme here is “Life in Full Bloom,” and it’s easy to see why. With a multitude of parks, beautiful low-maintenance homes, and a central clubhouse full of game rooms, exercise equipment, a magnificent pool and spa, barbeque stations, and organized resident activities. Homes in Brighton Park start in the low $200,000s.

With everything these communities have to offer, it’s no wonder that Castle & Cooke has come to represent what is best about life in Bakersfield. For more information on Castle & Cooke homes and communities call 664-6039 or visit us online at www.CastleCooke.com.

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CastleCooke.com

special advertising section

Centex Homes ENCANTO is A POPULAR PLACE TO CALL HOME Final Phase Release Underway Offering a Variety of Floor Plans, Exterior Designs with Personality & Style

A well-designed plan that surprises with its roominess, the Sterling at Encanto uses every square foot to provide space for living. Built by Centex, this open floor plan is great for family gatherings or hosting friends.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of coming home, especially when you’ve arrived at Encanto by Centex. Located in Southwest Bakersfield, Encanto has quickly become the destination of choice for firsttime and move-up buyers alike.

Priced from the upper $100,000s, Encanto offers three single-level floorplans with three or four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an attached two-car garage. These thoughtfully-designed floor plans range in size from approximately 1,445 to 1,968 square feet and may include a covered entry at the front door, convenient kitchen with quality appliances, the great room with optional fireplace and vaulted ceiling, formal dining room (per plan), computer tech area (per plan), interior laundry room, and elegant master bedroom suite with large walk-in closet.

This popular new home community by Centex has resonated so well with buyers since opening, that final sales are now underway.

“Homebuyers have discovered an inviting neighborhood designed to meet their

growing family’s needs and lifestyles,” said Michelle Marquez, sales consultant for Encanto. “You can’t help but appreciate the wide variety of elegantly-designed traditional floor plans combined with exquisite exterior design features, all balanced with contemporary appointments, practicality, and style. And with today’s histori-

A place where you can enjoy family atmosphere, simple pleasures, and neighborhood pride. cally low interest rates, right now qualified homebuyers can take advantage of great savings on the home of their dreams.”

Known for unparalleled homebuilding quality, industry-leading warranties, and inviting architectural styling, Centex offers homebuyers generously included features and amenities and more home for the money.

These well-appointed homes make entertaining family and friends easy and effortless.

Encanto is a place where you can enjoy family atmosphere, simple pleasures, and

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neighborhood pride at an unbeatable value.

Encanto is a part of the excellent Panama Buena Vista Union School District and is only minutes away from parks, shopping at the River Walk, the Marketplace, Movie Theatres, Mercy Southwest Hospital, and California University of Bakersfield.

Centex, founded in 1950, is one of the nation’s leading home building companies.

In addition to its home building operations, Centex also offers mortgage and title services. Centex has ranked among the top three builders on Fortune magazine’s list of “America’s Most Admired Companies” for 10 straight years and is a leader in quality and customer satisfaction.

To reach Encanto, travel south on Highway 99 and exit at Panama. Head west for six miles and turn right on Buena Vista. The sales office is on the left and open Sunday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

(Monday from 2 to 6 p.m.). For additional information, please call (866) 728-5175 or visit www.centex.com/central-valley.

Centex.com/central-valley

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 73

special advertising section

Delfino Homes A proven home builder/land developer where versatility is the key to our success in meeting the needs of our clients

One of the many custom homes built by Delfino Homes, this home is located in a showcase neighborhood near the Seven Oaks Country Club.

With 18 years of experience in Bakersfield, land developer and home builder George Delfino is no stranger to hard work.

His philosophy has always been to put the needs and desires of his homeowners in first position. It’s this philosophy that has allowed him to both grow and adapt in a tough industry such as homebuilding.

In addition to the Delfino philosophy, Delfino Land Company, Inc., doing business as Delfino Homes, George and his team can offer something that most other builders cannot—the ability to create home sites where most builders would not attempt due to lack of knowledge and expertise. That’s where the developer’s background comes into play.

There are many details that go into creating a home site that is not part of an existing subdivision. The building pad placement, the utilities to the property, and water to serve these home sites are just part of it.

“We’ve done ground-up builds in vineyards, on farm sites, and even in the foothills,” Delfino said. “We can create a building

pad that will accommodate the homeowner’s wishes.” An insurmountable road block for other builders is often a welcomed challenge to George.

“We have been building custom homes for over 12 years at Delfino Homes. We can build from a 1,300 square foot entry level to over 8,500 square foot semi-custom, to complete full custom. We also do complete remodels from extensive tear downs to updating an existing home.” Delfino homes also does outdoor BBQ and kitchen areas— it’s all in an effort to give the most options to his customers.

Home buyers have a large variety of plans to choose from, as well. “We have over 100 copyrighted plans of various designs and sizes to choose from or we can develop a plan specifically for the buyer, inhouse. There’s no middle man.”

Every step of the process is overseen by his efficient team. “Everything is handled by us, we’re a well-oiled machine. Everything is maintainable that way.” Not only does it

14525 Greatest Place, Bakersfield

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661.587.9816

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mean less hassle for the buyer, but having that small team allows the company to shift gears according to home trends. Nothing, from the design plans to contracts, leaves their hands, which is comforting for many families looking to build a home for the first time. “You can always reach me or someone on my team,” he added.

Delfino Homes has earned a reputation that has served them well during the present and past challenging market conditions.

The company has continued to attract the home buyer through past, satisfied buyers.

His past buyers have recommended Delfino Homes without reservations due to their experience during the construction of their first, and sometimes, second homes.

It appears to come down to a simple statement, George Delfino and Delfino Homes care about their clients and they take pride in each home they construct.

Delfino Homes model home is located at 14525 Greatest Place, off Renfro Road, just south of Rosedale Hwy.

DelfinoHomes.com

special advertising section

Lennar Homes Lennar’s New Models Now Open

Lennar’s new and fully-decorated model homes are now located at Summerlyn, Weston Falls, and Tradewinds. Prices begin in the $100,000s and range from approximately 1,264 to 2,318 square feet.

Lennar invites all homebuyers to our new fully-decorated models located at Summerlyn, Weston Falls, and Tradewinds.

With incredibly low pricing on these beautiful homes, these homes present the ideal opportunity to purchase a new home at a competitive price in prime locations.

With prices starting in the $100,000s, these brand-new residences range from approximately 1,264 to 2,318 square feet of living space with three and four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Summerlyn is conveniently located at the desirable location in Northwest Bakersfield at the corner of Allen and Reina. The community is close to award-winning schools, local restaurants, and nearby shopping including the Northwest Promenade and Costco. Weston Falls is located at the corner of Stine and McKee Roads, just off Mountain Ridge Road, and Tradewinds can be found at the northwest corner of Harris and Gosford Roads, close to lots of shopping and a landscaped, gorgeous park.

The diverse floorplans feature price-inclusive thoughtful details including stateof-the-art appliance packages, low-energy glass on all windows, wall-to-wall carpeting, and professionally-landscaped front yards. All Lennar homes are designed to appeal to homebuyers seeking charming, versatile homes with convenient access

With hundreds of Communities nationwide, Lennar has grown to become one of the nation’s leading and most-respected homebuilders. to great schools and retail centers, while still experiencing the serenity of a quiet close-knit neighborhood.

“Interest has been running extremely high for these beautiful and affordable homes,” said Susan Wilke, Vice President of Marketing for Lennar’s Central Valley Division. “With charming floorplans, included features, and a desirable location, many buyers have been anxiously waiting

9102 Tropicana Drive, Bakersfield

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877.400.1948

to purchase one of these newly-opened homes and now they can! In addition, we strongly encourage buyers to act fast or risk missing out on low interest rates, historically low prices and the California tax credit. The state tax credit set aside $100 million in tax credits for new homebuyers but funds are running out quickly. Now’s the time to buy!”

With hundreds of Communities nationwide and homes designed for first-time, move-up, and luxury homebuyers, Lennar has grown to become one of the nation’s leading and most-respected homebuilders.

Lennar has a longstanding history of building homes of enduring quality in only the most well planned and desirable locations throughout the country.

The Lennar models are open Friday through Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

For a complete list of communities in Bakersfield, call (877) 400-1948 or visit www.LENNAR.com.

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 75

special advertising section

Solera at Kern Canyon by Del Webb More than you imagined Enjoy the Legendary Del Webb Lifestyle in the Home of Your Dreams

At Solera Kern Canyon by Del Webb, an abundance of well planned amenities provide residents with exceptional recreation and special interest opportunities. Residents can enjoy swimming, fitness, tennis and bocce, a putting green, as well as a host of countless clubs to support hobbies, crafts, and special interest classes or charitable projects.

Active adults seeking great amenities, the perfect location, and small-town charm, find the vibrant lifestyle they’re yearning for at Solera Kern Canyon by Del Webb.

Homes in this Del Webb community have the high standards that homebuyers deserve, the attention to detail they are looking for, and a sought-after active adult lifestyle. Del Webb, the originator of active adult communities, built its first in 1960.

Now, 50 years later, Del Webb’s anniversary symbolizes the innovation and evolution of how American’s look at retirement and illustrates the company’s foresight as the premiere active adult community builder in America.

“Today’s active adults are more diverse than ever and Del Webb communities are at the forefront of meeting their many desires and aspirations,” said Dottie Paek, Director of Marketing for the company’s Southern California Division. “While many people are working longer, our Del Webb residents are getting younger—they don’t want to wait to

take advantage of all the exciting possibilities in their next stage of life.”

Solera at Kern Canyon continues the legacy with a community that showcases 10 single-level models with well-appointed homes ranging in size from approximately 1,099 to 2,374 square feet, with up to three bedrooms, two and half bathrooms, and attached two-car garages.

Situated against a backdrop of scenic rolling foothills, Solera Kern Canyon lies at the gateway of California’s famed Sierra Mountains. This popular area is home to some of the greatest scenic beauty and rich recreational venues. The community is located near the gorgeous landscape of the Kern River, a major attraction for fishing, boating, and water recreation enthusiasts.

An abundance of well-planned amenities provide residents with exceptional recreation and special interest opportunities. Residents can enjoy swimming, fitness, tennis and bocce, a putting green, as well as a host of

14312 Del Webb Court, Bakersfield

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877.242.1180

countless clubs to pursue hobbies, crafts, and special interest classes or charitable projects. For the golfer, the private Rio Bravo Country Club is easily accessible across the street and residents may join to enjoy playing the nearby course.

And as for the homes, Del Webb received the highest ranking for customer satisfaction in the Inland Empire market, according to the results of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The time is now for interested homebuyers to purchase a home at Solera Kern Canyon priced from the mid-$100,000s (effective August 2010 and subject to change).

With move-in ready homes available, homebuyers can live in one of Del Webb’s premiere Southern California communities; enjoy the amazing amenities and legendary lifestyle, all at the right price, right now.

For more information about Solera Kern Canyon or directions to the community, visit www.delwebb.com or call (877) 242-1180.

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special advertising section

John Dovichi Custom Homes At John Dovichi Custom Homes, we do so much more than build beautiful homes

With so many home related service companies out there, you can be confident in choosing John Dovichi Custom Homes to handle your next project whether it be large or small. Our company has a long history of quality craftsmanship, honesty, and integrity.

After over 30 years in the residential home building industry, you’d think that John Dovichi would have grown weary with such a difficult, labor-intensive line of work.

However, the veteran home-builder is just as passionate about his trade as he was while working on his first home.

“I never forget that I’m building somebody’s dream house. Every job matters to the family we’re working with, so it matters to me,” Dovichi explained.

“It was an impulsive decision—I was a carpenter by trade and then got my contractor’s license. My first house was a custom house in Rio Bravo. I did all the work and learned the trade as I went.”

That enthusiasm went a long way; soon after, Dovichi was building all over town.

“We have a philosophy—we build on trust,” he said. “It’s all about honesty.”

That reputation has gotten the company far as they are widely known as a high-end custom home builder. But John and his son Jonathan, who has been helping out his fa-

ther since he was very young, are adamant that people understand that Dovichi Homes does much, much more.

“People have a perception that all we do is high-end houses,” he added. “A big part of our business is remodeling and home additions, large and small. We also do insurance work, water damage, and fire restoration.”

“I never forget that I’m building somebody’s dream house. Every job matters to the family we’re working with, so it matters to me.”

“Some of the homes we built years ago will become outdated, and we provide all the upgrades, as well,” Jonathan said.

“We’ll always come back when the homeowner needs something. The job doesn’t stop at 5 p.m. for us.”

Jonathan knows the industry from the inside out.

“He would ride his bike down to a site when he was eight years old,” Dovichi said.

So five years ago, when Jonathan re-

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turned from Chico State, he came back to work full-time.

“It’s a profession you can’t really take classes for,” Jonathan mused. “I’ve been around this line of work forever and it’s something you have to learn. Something you have to pick up with hands-on training.”

For both Dovichis, the pride in their jobs comes from doing everything themselves.

“Down to the last screw being in place, we give a thousand percent,” Dovichi explained.

One of the reasons they become so close to the home owner is because John and Jonathan orchestrate every aspect of the building process.

“Because we help people build their home from the ground up, we become great friends with them.”

“We do everything,” Jonathan explained.

“We get our own bids, we’re our own superintendent, we’re the ones running the project, and we’re always on-site.” It’s rare, but it’s an important part of what sets Dovichi Homes apart.

BuildingOnTrust.com

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 77

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home & Garden

By Tom Xavier

we never seem to have enough

Gadgets Galore ©istockphoto.com/yinyang

I knew the time had come for some organization when, one day, I opened the cupboard in my kitchen, and a heap of plastic tubs came tumbling down.

Enough! I began the task of going through my cupboards and drawers, in an attempt to control the chaos and, ultimately, to see what I had.

What do I need three angel food cake pans for? Those 15 pie tins? I guess I was saving them for that big pie contest I would never enter.

You know we all do it: “I’ve gotta save this.” “I’ll use it someday.”

Does it pass the “love-it-use-it” test?

Since the kitchen has increasingly become the social center of the house, where families gather, friends snack and chat, and homeowners entertain, it’s no surprise the kitchen has also become a magnet for clutter. It stands to reason, that if your kitchen was more organized and simple to use, that your life would be easier. So, dear friends, here are a few easy steps to organize your kitchen.

First, arrange your kitchenware by frequency of use, with everyday dishes on an easy-toreach, lower shelf, and special-occasion pieces up above.

Second, think twice before buying new gadgets. There truly is a tool for every task and we’re tempted to buy them. On the shelves of the store, gadgets look cute and useful. The promise that “they will do the cooking for you” is appealing, but make a pact with yourself that you will avoid impulse buying of kitchen gadgets.

Third, don’t talk yourself into keeping clutter. If some of your tools don’t pass the “loveit-use-it” test, then they’re clutter and it’s time to move them out of your kitchen. That said, before chucking out old kitchen gadgets, there are certain tools I always recommend keeping.

Micro-plane Grater This now-ubiquitous kitchen tool was originally adapted from

©istockphoto.com/lauripatterson

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a woodworking rasp. But now, savvy cooks know that it’s the best way for grating hard cheeses, chocolate, ginger, and nutmeg.

Bonus tip: Use it to grate cloves of garlic for any recipe that calls for minced or finely-chopped garlic. >>

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 79

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Color-Coded Flexible Cutting Mats Practice good sanitation in the kitchen by using a different colored mat for different cutting tasks: blue for fish, yellow for poultry, green for vegetables. Best of all, it’s easy to transport cut-up food to a bowl or pan; just hold the mat by the edges and tilt to funnel the food into the pan or bowl.

Bonus tip: Use the reverse side of the green (vegetable) mat as a pastry mat for patting out biscuit dough.

Adjustable Measuring Cup For baking and other tasks that require

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numerous carefully-measured ingredients, this clever adjustable measuring cup will replace your entire stack of dry and liquid measuring cups. A twist of the base adjusts the cup to the proper measurement line, and you can push the base up to remove sticky ingredients.

4-inch Utility Knife This small knife does everything a paring knife can do, and then some. Use it to mince shallots and garlic, hull cherries, slice mushrooms and avocados, and peel fruit. It’s that versatile and can replace a drawer full of knives.

Silicone Spoon Spatula This utensil may very well replace all your other spoons and spatulas; it’s the only one you’ll need for stirring, sautéing, scooping, scraping, and more. Made of silicone, the tool

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Gift Certificates Available

6721 White Lane • 661.833.1800 adjacent to La Cabaña Restaurant

The Kern County Chapter of the American Red Cross needs your help!

is heat resistant up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, and has a springy steel core extending through the handle, which makes it strong yet flexible.

Bonus tip: While most silicone tools come in different colors, consider buying a red one—it won’t show stains from using with strongly pigmented ingredients like tomato sauce.

Kitchen Shears Keep a pair of shears in a handy kitchen drawer exclusively for cooking use. From snipping twine to cutting open packages and trimming vegetables and meats, a sharp pair of shears is indispensable.

Bonus tip: Instead of chopping herbs with a knife, use a clean pair of kitchen shears to easily snip them straight into the pot.

With this small selection of utensils, you can complete all the jobs you need to without having clutter. Your drawers and cupboards will be organized and appear more spacious. And with that extra space, you might be able to have a dedicated cupboard to neatly stack all your tubs. No more tumbling Tupperware! n

In response to the recent wildfires, the local chapter of the American Red Cross has set up two shelters for Kern evacuees, whose numbers have already reached 2,300.

The Red Cross is providing assistance for these displaced families, but you can help them provide for the victims of the Bull and West fires by donating:

Non-perishable food • Water • Clothing • Teddy Bears Or any financial contribution you can spare

All local American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from local people.

Help us turn heartbreak into hope! Call the Kern County Chapter of the American Red Cross to see how you can help.

3 Call (661) 324-6427

3 Send a contribution to the American Red Cross Kern Chapter P.O. Box 1226/5035 Gilmore Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93302-1226 3 Online at www.KernRedCross.org

3 Mobile Giving: Text to 90999 the word “REDCROSS” to make a $5 donation

elp l H l a ca Loc d o L or ee F N

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 81

green pages

Continued from page 71

than slow-cooking a roast in a crock-pot.

And with this method, you’re not using electricity and you eliminate the fear of over-cooking.

So it would seem the futuristic ways we’ll use the sun are here already. At least when it comes to cookin’. v Sources: Solarcooking.org; Solarcookers.org ILE GREEN PAGES BUSI NESS PROF

IS IT TIME TO GO

SOLAR?

either Summer is here. And that can beltaty swe mean another season of can you or ey, tightening to save mon use. erHo make your home a Pow drasEveryone knows solar power can , but bills y tricit elec your ce tically redu save will pany com ergy e-en nativ one alter Systems, use erHo Pow . more even you d, most Inc. not only installs the CEC rate the (with lable efficient solar systems avai ce redu help also best warranty), they can easy and k quic out your costs by pointing that can household efficiency upgrades s. sand save you thou use Jake Thoene founded PowerHo : “I look mind in oach appr ue uniq this with omer’s for ways we can minimize a cust to soget electricity use before we even em is syst ller sma lar,” he says. “Then, a nt stme inve their and more than enough, r.” faste h is repaid that muc begins A consultation with PowerHouse using ), (TEA lysis Ana gy Ener et Targ with a loped. It a software program Thoene deve and efrns takes into account usage patte ized onal pers ficiency upgrades to design keep will that ems energy efficiency syst , without customers’ bills low all year long . unts acco draining their bank be Whi le othe r com pani es’ goal s may ey, mon e mor e mak to r sola e mor to sell com mitPow erHo use Syst ems Inc. , is for thei r ted to doin g wha t is real ly best cust ome rs.

ne, “Going green is great,” says Thoe best the ng getti ns “as long as it mea more product possible, while keeping et!” wall green in your

your To learn more, or to sign up for free Target Energy Analysis, visit SolarPowerYourWorld.com.

ADVE RTISE MEN T

82 Bakersfield Magazine

❖

HUMAN RESOURCES ❖

Ethics Critical in Workplace Culture When British Petroleum’s code of conduct, have much Deepwater Horizon oil rig better relationships with emexploded and sank on April ployees and customers, and 20, 2010, it set off a devasexperience less litigation on tating chain of events that all fronts where disputes may has caused an environmental arise. Likewise, much like incatastrophe of epic propordividuals, companies develop tions. However, as layers of a reputation in the area of eththe calamity are peeled back, ics and that reputation carries it is clear there was no one consequences, both good and single mistake responsible bad, as they interface with for the debacle, but a myriad their employees, customers, of missteps, cost-cuttings, By Holly Culhane, SPHR and the community.” and questionable decisions made by nuAs is mentioned in the same article by merous people involved with the opera- Smith, a recent survey pointed out some of tion. In short, this problem is indicative the more common ethical missteps within of the destructive results unethical work- companies, including: abusive behavior, lyplace behaviors can have on your place ing to employees, e-mail or Internet abuse, of business—and beyond. conflicts of interest, discrimination, lying In a recent article called “Oil Spill is to outside stakeholders, employee benefits Wake-Up Call for More Ethical Work- violation, and health or safety violations. places,” by Allen Smith in HR News, With all the publicity of corporate unethiShanti Atkins, president and CEO of ELT, cal behavior, it may appear that things are an international corporation specializing in worsening; however, research indicates the ethics and compliance training, declared, opposite. The 2009 National Business Ethics “The BP disaster underscores in a shock- Survey indicates some improvement in coming way that ethics and compliance are not pany ethical behavior. After conducting sursoft issues but ‘bet the company’ or ‘bet the veys and watching trends for 15 years, the replanet’ issues.” Atkins continued to explain port notes “an important connection between the importance for companies of all sizes to workplace ethics and the larger economic create, train employees, and enforce a strict and business cycle: When times are tough, code of ethics. She asserted, “One of the ethics improve. A possible explanation is that most important things a code of conduct can during hard times, when a company’s wellaccomplish is to clarify how to report work- being or even existence may be on the line place concerns and create a culture where and regulators are watching, management retaliation is not tolerated and employees talks more about the importance of high are taught that it is their obligation to report standards to see the organization through safety or ethical concerns.” the crisis.” Additionally, as is stated in the Often, workplace behaviors may be HR News article “Survey: Business Ethjustified as being “legal” and therefore, ics Improved During Recession,” by Steve within the bounds of acceptability. How- Bates, during economic downturns, busiever, beware! Just because something nesses scrutinize day-to-day operations more may technically not be illegal, does not closely and this can discourage misconduct. mean that it is ethical. It is critical that Unfortunately, when brighter economic organizations foster an ethical workplace times return, company misconduct may culture—where employees know the im- rise again—if the trends hold true. But it’s portance of doing “what is right.” important to remember that character alGrover H. Waldon, a partner at Clifford & ways counts and ethical values and habits Bradford, claims, “I have noted over almost can never be discounted. All employees three decades of my legal practice that com- need to feel proud of their organization panies that do not follow an ethical code of and a solid code of standards can instill conduct generally have poor employee mo- that sense of pride. rale and their decisions, big and small, ultimately result in undesired consequences. Contact Holly Culhane of PAS Associates for Furthermore, clients that abide by an ethical your human resource needs, (661) 631-2165.

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.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 83

QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR

superlative snacking

ake!

easy to m

Big Taste Bruschetta R.J.’s Bar & Grill

This time of year, the oven is certainly not our friend.

When we see the words “pre-heat,” we flip the page in the cookbook, right?

Well when we asked the imaginative guys at R.J.’s to create a tasty recipe for something light for our readers this summer, they made sure everything was fresh (and local). A crispy, cool bruschetta recipe was born that day. It’s the perfect appetizer for a latenight get together or a great lunch snack because it’s big on taste and light on preparation. Aren’t you glad we asked? n

84 Bakersfield Magazine

5 ripe tomatoes, choppe d and seeded 1 cup ex tra virgin olive oil 1 bunch fresh basil (½ rough chopped, ½ res er ved for garnish) ½ tbsp. Kosher salt • 1 ½ tbsp. freshly chopped garlic Fresh Parmesan cheese , thinly sliced 1 crusty baguette loaf, sliced on bias In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, salt, garlic, olive oil, and the roughly- chopped basil.

Allow the mixture to chi ll for 15 minutes in the refrigerator . While your topping is coo ling, lightly grill your biased-cut bagu ette. If you don’t have a gri ll or griddle available, try toasting the m in a sauté pan until the y ge t brown and crispy.

To assemble, place your ba gu top with the chilled tomato ette slices on a large plate and mixture. Then place the Par mesan cheese on top and garnish with the leftover fresh basil.

After that...well, you know what to do.

Cuisine: light & tasty treats

WHAT’S COOKIN’

Crunchy Calamari Strips

the secret’s out

By Mike Stepanovich

The Crest Bar and Grill may be one of the best-kept secrets in Bakersfield. It’s one of those places that you’ve got to know where it is, and be purposely going there, to find it. No billboards or signs direct you. For longtime Bakersfield residents, the clue is in the name: the Crest Bar and Grill is on the site of the former Crest Drive-in Theater, a Bakersfield fixture for decades.

It’s the focal point of the Bakersfield RV Resort, the creation of Ed

weren’t surprised to learn we were locals—our server said about 40 percent of

and Sharlyn Patterson...themselves RV aficionados. The converted, old

her customers are local, perhaps more—but it’s clear visitors are anticipated.

drive-in site, which sat empty from 1998 until the Pattersons opened

The interior is dark, cool, and comfortable; ideal if you’ve driven in from

the Bakersfield RV Resort in spring 2007, is now a destination for

elsewhere or had a long day at work and are looking for a place to unwind.

RVs. It won a Beautiful Bakersfield award in 2009, and judging from

Either way, the Crest works.

Internet ratings, is one of the best places in the state, if not the West.

That distinction certainly applies to the res-

We had visited the Crest shortly after it opened, and found a“new-place”buzz had brought a large crowd. We hadn’t visited in a while

taurant; it’s well worth the effort to find it.

The interior is dark, cool, and

To get there, head south on Wible Road and

comfortable; ideal if you’ve

the Crest. On our first visit back, it was much quieter,

take the first right past Pacheco Road into the

had a long day at work and are

which allowed for pleasant conversation and for us to

RV Resort (address is 5025 Wible Road). Turn right at the large building in front of you, and

looking for a place to unwind.

and decided it was time to reacquaint ourselves with

focus on our meals. A nice touch: cloth napkins.

Our server, Mary, was quite helpful with our

go to the entrance to the Crest Bar and Grill. There’s a putting green to

menu selections. I told her I was looking for a lighter entrée, so she

the right as you enter, and a patio with misters. Inside, the bar is on the

recommended either the Eggplant Parmesan ($13.95) or the Lemon

left, with the dining room at the south end of the large, open room.

Chicken Picatta ($13.95). When the host recommended the egg-

The staff is quite friendly. You’re barely in the door when the host or host-

plant, that convinced me; I also ordered a bowl of the Santa Fe >>

ess calls out a greeting and seats you promptly. You quickly discern that resort guests are the core customers, as your server will ask where you’re from. They

Cuisine: delectable destination

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 85

Cuisine: delectable destination Chicken Soup ($2.95). My wife, Carol, chose the Ultimate Works Burger ($9.95).

My soup arrived, and was delightful. It was served hot, and had a creaminess to it

inches long, coated in a light batter, which we were learning was one of the Crest’s trademarks, and a light sprinkling of seasoned salt.

that coated my palate. Chunks of chicken and chili peppers dotted the soup; roasted

The presentation was appealing, with the strips lying on red-leaf lettuce leaves,

red peppers were pureed with the base to give the soup a pinkish color. And that

and a small cup of cocktail sauce, spruced up with black pepper, in the middle. The

wonderful, roasted-pepper flavor came through! This was one of the more imagina-

strips were so tender you could cut them with a fork, and quite tasty.

tive and delicious soups I’ve had in awhile. And it was hearty enough that with a crust of bread and a bigger bowl, it could have easily been a meal by itself.

The mushrooms were about a half-dollar size and stuffed with bacon and cheese; were they ever rich and flavorful! Both Carol and I liked the size as it made for an

Carol’s burger arrived, and it was a huge, half-pound monstrosity. It had crisp

easy bite – just pop it in your mouth. The mushrooms came with warm marinara

bacon, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and thousand-island dressing—in

sauce that added volumes to the complex flavors of the mushrooms, and it also went

short, the works. “I’m telling you, this has got everything on it but the kitchen

exceptionally well with the calamari.

sink,” she said. She got halfway through before she had to quit, but she enjoyed the other half the next day.

She also ordered onion rings instead of fries...and these things were huge! They

Upon Matt’s recommendation, we decided to split the daily special, fish and chips ($11.95). What a great choice! Three large fillets of cod arrived, about twice the size of what you normally get at other places. They were coated in a light batter (naturally)

Zesty Lemon Chicken Picatta

Grilled Bananas with Ice Cream

were an inch wide, with a light batter, fried to a golden brown. Carol let me try one,

that included herbs de Provence which provided subtle flavors that left us both in

and with the ranch dressing that came as a dip, they were great.

awe. The fillets were fried to a dark, golden brown; crunchy, but not oily at all. The

My Eggplant Parmesan was a work of art. It was smothered with a blanket of mozzarella cheese, and had fettuccini Alfredo as a side dish. The Alfredo sauce was light and mildly cheesy, and a good balance to the bold Eggplant Parmesan.

The eggplant was absolutely splendid. The three slices of eggplant had been fried to give it a nice, crunchy texture, then assembled with a rich, almost sweet, Marinara sauce, draped with the mozzarella and baked. It was delicious! No wonder Mary recommended it.

fish was firm and flaky, with great texture. Just outstanding.

Matt provided us with tarter sauce and ranch dressing (dip for the fries, which were terrific), and my lone disappointment was the sweet pickles in the tarter sauce.

The sauce was fine, well made, but I’m a dill guy...what can I say? Just a personal preference. So I used the ranch dressing for my fish, and was happy.

For dessert, the grilled bananas ($5.95) are sheer genius. And they’re to die for!

The dish comes with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, surrounded by chunks of fried

We were so impressed that we returned a few nights later. I was intent on ordering

banana. The banana pieces are more like lightly seared because they’re still firm—

that Lemon Chicken Picatta, but I never did. Instead we went for fried calamari strips

not mushy at all. They’re sitting in a pool of caramel sauce with chopped pistachios

($10.95) and stuffed mushrooms ($8.95) for openers.

sprinkled generously on top. What a way to end the meal.

Our server on this visit, Matt, was an outgoing and friendly fellow who gave details of the various items we inquired about. It was his descriptions that sold us on the calamari and mushrooms.

Good choices, too. The calamari came in quarter-inch-square strips about six 86 Bakersfield Magazine

Both Matt and Mary kept touting the homemade peach cobbler ($5.95), so we’ll have to try that on a future visit. Which will be any day now.

The Crest accepts major credit cards, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

It closes nightly at 9 p.m. Phone is (661) 833-9998. n

LIFE IS A CABERNET

Bordeaux brilliance

By Mike Stepanovich

American wine consumers have a long-held fascination with Bordeaux. The ancient French city on the Atlantic coast gives its name to a region that provides some of the most sought-after wines in the world.

Among French wines, only Bordeaux wines are classified, a monumental ef-

in St. Emilion, and Chateau Petrus, the world’s most expensive wine, in Pomerol.

fort accomplished in 1855, and maintained to this day. Bordeaux, of course, is

So I was delighted to find that Jerry Lohr, owner and founder of J. Lohr

subdivided into various sub-appellations: Margaux, Pauillac, St. Estephe, Medoc,

Winery, has manifested his own fascination with Bordeaux wines by creating

St. Emilion, and Pomerol among them. Only five Bordeaux wines are classified

a small line called the J. Lohr Cuvee Series, that reflects a California image of

“First Growth,” the top tier, and these wines command huge prices, often running

three great Bordeaux sub-appellations.

into the thousands of dollars...per bottle.

J. Lohr’s tasting room in Paso Robles (it’s north of Highway 46 on Airport

The wines from the different sub-appellations are distinctive, reflective of

Road) is always a mandatory stop for me on my visits to my hometown for a

their particular terroir, and of the grapes that grow best in each. For example,

couple reasons: my longtime friend Diane Moreno works there, and I always

wines from Pomerol have merlot as their principal grape; St. Emilion is predomi-

find wines available only in the tasting room.

nantly cabernet franc; while Pauillac is cabernet sauvignon. Interestingly, neither

Earlier this year, I dropped by to see if any Tower Road, J. Lohr’s petite sirah,

Pomerol nor St. Emilion were included in the 1855 classification, though each

was available (the winery doesn’t make it every year, and when it does, it usu-

has wineries considered among the best in the world—Chateau Cheval Blanc

ally wins gold medals at competitions where I judge, like the last two vintages

photos courtesy of J. Lohr winery

have). Diane had some, but then said, “There’s something else I’d like you to try.” She pulled out a beautiful bottle, poured me a taste, and said, “The Pom is drinking really well right now.” She smiled as I tipped my glass up for a sip.

She was right; it was a great-tasting wine, but I wasn’t sure I’d heard her, so asked, “The Pom?” She showed me the bottle. “It’s styled after wines from Pomerol. We also have the St. E and the Pau,” which are modeled after St. Emilion and Pauillac.

I tried all three and was intrigued. Here were three distinctive wines, reminiscent of the regions for which they were named, but with a California personality.

The three are similar in that they’re deep, rich, and imminently likable. They’re

Jerry and Cynthia Lohr

different in that they reflect the best qualities of their principal grape. >>

J. Lohr Winery

wine: the flavor of love www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 87

wine: the flavor of love I immediately arranged to return and met J. Lohr’s red winemaker, Steve Peck. An easygoing native of Santa Paula, in Ventura County, Peck left there to attend community college in Santa Cruz before getting his enology degree at the University of California, Davis. His previous stops prepared him well for his current position: stints at Joseph Phelps, Five Rivers, and Jekel wineries, before joining J. Lohr in 2007 as red-wine maker.

“The Cuvee Series is a tip of the hat to the French,” Peck said. “The Lohrs are really into French wines. I wasn’t around when Jerry Lohr came up with the idea.

“Ageability is very much in our minds for these wines. With the Cuvee Series, we want tighter tannin structure.”

Peck said the Cuvee Series originated in 1999, but it apparently made its first appearance in J. Lohr’s tasting room about 2006. Peck said he only makes 250 to 500 cases a year. The vintage currently available is the 2006, and is priced at $50 a bottle.

The 2000 vintages of each Cuvee Series wine had much higher percentages of their principal grape than

Winemakers

Steve Peck and Jeff Meier

the current blends. n

The 2000 Pau is 86 percent cabernet sauvignon and

14 percent petit verdot; the 2004 is 95.1 percent cabernet sauvignon, 4.4 percent petite verdot, and 0.5 percent merlot; the 2006 is 81 percent cabernet sauvignon, 12 percent merlot, 5 percent petit verdot, and 1 percent each malbec and cabernet franc. n

The 2000 Pom is 88.5 percent merlot and 11.5 per-

masculine, he said, while fruit from the Creston area, “We make whatever the vineyard provides.

We’re not driven by sales. We’re making wines to please ourselves and acknowledge the sub-appellations of Bordeaux.” – Steve Peck

cent cabernet franc; the 2004 is 65.3 percent merlot,

southeast of Paso Robles, is more perfumy. By using fruit from diverse sources, Peck is able to create more complex wines.

In addition to broadening the blends, Peck made

24.9 percent cabernet sauvignon, 6.2 percent cabernet franc, 2.3 percent petit verdot and

one other important change. He noticed shortly after he arrived that the staves in the

1.1 percent malbec; the 2006 is 62 percent merlot, 31 percent cabernet sauvignon, 3 percent

barrels used for the Pau were thinner; as a consequence the “micro oxygenation was more

each cabernet franc and petit verdot, and 1 percent malbec.

rapid. I noticed they (the barrels with the Pau blend) were sort of done by 15 months.”

n The 2000 St. E is 98.7 percent cabernet franc and 1.3 percent merlot; the 2004 is 45 per-

He reduced the percentage of new oak barrels and used a standard stave thickness, so

cent cabernet franc, 44 percent petit verdot, 5.6 percent cabernet sauvignon, and 5.4 percent

that all three wines stayed in barrel 20 to 22 months before bottling. Because the micro-

merlot; the 2006 is 58 percent cabernet franc, 36 percent cabernet sauvignon, 4 percent

oxygenation was slowed, the maturation took longer, so the resulting wines were better

merlot, and 2 percent petit verdot.

and more complex.

The more balanced varietal percentages more accurately reflect the French models, as

How do these three wines compare with their French models? “They hang well with

the French strive for year-to-year consistency. As one can see from the blends, while the

them,”Peck said. “Our alcohol levels are a bit higher than the French, but the upper tier French

focus for each wine is the principal grape of its region (cabernet sauvignon for Pauillac,

wines are north of 14 [percent alcohol] now. Ours are at about 14.9 percent.”

merlot for Pomeroln, and cabernet franc for St. Emilion) the percentage of the supporting grapes varies widely from year to year.

The Cuvee Series wines are all Paso Robles fruit, he said. “These wines tend to be viewed as a value; in Napa Valley, sales froze, while ours picked up.

Peck said the source of the grapes is also important. For the St. E, “the franc is from two

“We make whatever the vineyard provides. We’re not driven by the sales staff. We’re mak-

different ranches; half [of the cabernet franc] is from an old planting a half-mile from the

ing these wines to please ourselves and acknowledge the sub-appellations of Bordeaux.” n

tasting room—I don’t know what clone it is—and the other half is from seven miles

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 Bakersfield College. 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.

south near the Templeton Gap. Two clones of cabernet franc are there; it’s cooler there, and the grapes get more hang-time.”

The Pau “is a bit bigger and plumier,” he said, while “the Pom is different, it’s more like Pomerol, softer and more elegant.” The fruit from the home ranch is darker, more 88 Bakersfield Magazine

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way

Lights...Camera...ACTION

It’s movie night!

By Tom Xavier A movie night is not a new concept. You’ve probably been having get-togethers like this for years, hanging with friends to enjoy a good film. After all, it’s an easy event to put together.

You start with a handful of people, prepare some nibbles, pick a film, and unleash an evening of cinematic fun.

Well, I say it’s high time we start appreciating what a movie night can do for our relationships and host more of them...and then add personal touches to really dazzle your guests. It’s a great way to spend time together that breaks convention, because movies are a guaranteed ice breaker and you don’t have to spend an evening in a dining room chair thinking of topics to discuss.

And while the movie is the theme of the evening, it should only serve as the entertainment. You don’t want people sitting around the TV all night, not saying a word. So make your next movie night special by going the extra mile and creating an event that isn’t just about the movie you’ll be viewing.

The best way to do this is by playing interactive games. Try playing a movie-only game of charades. Or, pick a classic movie (that most, if not all, people attending your event have seen) and have someone be in charge of pausing the movie at random times. Play a game where the first person to shout out the next line correctly gets a point. The one with the most points at the end of the movie wins! Other games include dressing up as characters in the movie (award a prize for best costume) or holding a Hollywood trivia contest. It’s a great way to stray from the traditional evening get-together.

You could even host a movie marathon.

Line up a series of movies and invite your guests to an all-night movie bonanza. The movies could be part of a series, or you pick ones that have a common theme.

Like a John Hughes teen movie fest, or all of the movies in the Lord of the Rings trilogy (extended versions, of course). Serve lots of coffee and a big breakfast. However, if it’s been a while since your last movie-night, I suggest starting out with a one-film viewing. But that doesn’t mean it has to be basic. >>

GOOD MOVIES AND SCRUMPTIOUS FOOD IS ONLY THE BEGINNING!

movie night : let the fun begin

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 89

movie night : let the fun begin Before your movie night, try some of these suggestions to set your event apart.

In any art program on your computer, sketch up mock tickets. Then, mail (or email) them out to everyone who’ll be attending. Make sure they present their ticket at the front door.

Visit any Dollar Store and pick up some Hollywood/movie theater decorations. You can even find cheap popcorn containers. On one counter in your kitchen, set up a “concession” stand, with pre-popped popcorn, a selection of sodas, and an assortment of candies. Finally, consider stringing white Christmas lights around the walls to mimic a real movie theater. It may seem simple, but it’s that extra touch that adds a little excitement.

Because most of the items are snack foods, you can prepare all of them in advance, so you don’t have to miss any of the movie. Even so, schedule an “intermission” to give people a chance to refill on goodies or take a bathroom break.

When you’re planning what you’ll have at the concession stand, think “theater.” Make it snack-a-licious. Movie candies like Goobers or Raisinettes lend an air of authenticity. And while microwavable popcorn is fine; even better is stove-popped corn. Then, spice up your popcorn bowls with a fiesta of flavors: chili powder, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, cinnamon/sugar, Cajun spices, or nacho cheese mix. They’ll transform plain old popcorn into a treat for your taste buds. Try this classic recipe for Kettle Corn.

Prepare the popcorn as above (without the sugar). As soon as the popcorn is done, dump it into a large bowl and sprinkle on the seasoning mixture, tossing to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately.

Zesty Nachos 1 package Velveeta cheese • 1/2 cup milk • 1 can Rotel Tomatoes Jalapeños (seeded, diced) • Onions (chopped) • Black olives (sliced) Any other preferred topping Chop the Velveeta cheese into cubes and put into a slow cooker. Set to a medium heat and stir occasionally as the cheese begins to melt. Pour in the milk and stir well—this keeps the cheese from lumping and becoming too sticky. Add the tomatoes. You can also stir in a bit of sour cream if you like. Reduce to a low heat and cover until ready to serve. Pour on top of tortilla chips and top with jalapeños, onions, olives, guacamole, sour cream, or any other desired topping.

Kettle Corn 1/4 cup vegetable oil • 1/4 cup white sugar • 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, stir in the sugar and popcorn. Cover, and shake the pot constantly to keep the sugar from burning. Once the popping has slowed to once every 2 to 3 seconds, remove the pot from the heat and continue to shake for a few minutes until the popping has stopped. Pour into a large bowl, and allow to cool, stirring occasionally to break up large clumps.

Spiral Dogs This is a twist on the traditional hot dog in a bun (some of you might call it a pig in a blanket). But it’s a great quick-and-easy recipe.

1 package of hotdogs • 1 package of refrigerated crescent rolls Wrap one crescent roll around each hotdog. Bake according to crescent roll package directions. Then, serve hot with dipping condiments like mustard, ketchup, or ranch dressing.

Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

South of the Border Popcorn 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1 tbsp. Mexican chili powder 1 tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder • 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional) 8 cups plain popped popcorn In a small bowl, stir together the Parmesan cheese, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using). Set aside.

90 Bakersfield Magazine

1/2 cup granulated sugar • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup peanut butter • 1/4 cup shortening • 1/4 cup butter 1 egg • 1 1/4 cups flour • 3/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt • Half-gallon of ice cream 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips • 2 tbsp. shortening Heat oven to 375 degrees; mix all ingredients. Shape dough into 1 1/4 inch balls.

Place three inches apart on cookie sheet and flatten into a crisscross with a floured fork. Bake until light brown, usually nine to eleven minutes. Remove cookies from cookie sheet and cool.

Three Locations to Serve You! Taco Tuesdays - $1 Tacos, $2 Mexican Beers

$3 Margaritas with DJ Music starting at 7:30pm

Wednesdays - Noche’s Mexicanas with Live Mariachi music from 6pm-9pm at the Marketplace Location For each sandwich, place a big tablespoon of your favorite ice cream between two cookies and press gently. Freeze until firm on a cookie sheet.

Melt 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips with two tablespoons shortening. Stir occasionally. Let stand 2 minutes and then dip half of each sandwich into chocolate.

Place back onto pan and freeze until firm. Store sealed in plastic wrap or baggies.

Makes 15 sandwiches.

To help round out your movie night, you need the perfect beverages.

An Arnold Palmer is a simple mocktail that mixes two of people’s favorite beverages (mix three ounces of lemonade with three ounces of iced tea). However, there are other wonderful “summer sippers” to be made!

If you’re showing an old classic for your movie night, why not try a drink with a nostalgic kick?

Thursdays - Old School Music with the Rhythm Kings - live band from 8pm-11pm at the Valley Plaza Location

Marketplace-9000 Ming Ave. F4 • 664-1400 Valley Plaza-2701 Ming Ave. #29 • 832-5011 Tulare-1594 Hillman Street • 559-684-0600

Cherry Cola 12 oz. cola • 1 tbsp. cherry grenadine 1 tbsp. Maraschino cherry juice • 1 Maraschino cherry Mix the first three ingredients, pour in tall glass over ice, and top with cherry.

And remember those refreshing drinks you used to get in the mall? You know, the one that reminded you of a 50/50 bar; just the right amount of orange juice and milk and it was served iced cold and frothy?

The Almost Like Orange Julius 3 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate • 1/2 cup milk • 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup sugar • 1/2 tsp. vanilla • 6 ice cubes Combine orange juice concentrate, milk, water, sugar, vanilla, and ice cubes in blender.

Cover and blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.

With your snacks assembled at your concession stand, it’s up to your guests to pick which treats they want to indulge in, and you’re free to enjoy the flick, the food, and the ambiance. And of course, you get to enjoy the company of friends and family, which is the whole point of movie night. Well that, and showing off your knowledge of movie trivia. n www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 91

bottoms up!

piece of history

Quick Year Established: 1893 Facts Address: 525 Sumner St.

By Jason Gutierrez

You don’t need boxing gloves if you’re looking for a total knock-out, just swing by Noriega’s and take on the traditional Basque Picon Punch.

Known as the Basque People’s House, Noriega’s, in historic Old Town Kern, has long been mixing up this powerful cocktail that is as much of a staple to Basque cuisine as ox tail and pickled tongue. Made of Amer Picon, grenadine, soda water, a splash of brandy, and garnished with a lemon twist, the Picon Punch is the drink of choice when dining Basque.

Established in 1893, Noriega’s Basque roots have been written in travel and historic publications across the country. Still pinpointed as one of the destination locations to Basque people, Noriega’s co-owner Rochelle Ladd says she enjoys the many different travelers the restaurant and boarding house sees, and loves the culture the establishment retains.

“I think the Picon Punch is a great example of tradition and the spirit of the Basque people,” she says. “The drink has become wildly popular and sparks interest in Basque culture for those unfamiliar.”

Although the Picon Punch is a staple, it can bend to appease anyone’s taste buds. Ladd says she’s heard the drink ordered with more soda to mellow out the regular tart taste, or ordered with more grenadine to make it sweeter.

“I’ve even seen it ordered with no brandy,” she adds. “It’s open to preference but it seems that the traditional drink is what most people are preferring.” n 92 Bakersfield Magazine

Noriega’s Picon Punch 2 oz. Amer Picon • Soda water 1/2 oz. grenadine • 1/2 oz. brandy Lemon peel • 1/2 oz lemon juice

Shake the Amer Picon, brandy, lemon juice, and grenadine well with ice and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.

Top with soda, garnish with fruit, and serve.

drink: traditional favorites

Benji’s French Basque

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

The Orchid

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

RJ’s Bar and Grill

Established in 2002, RJ’s was developed by Jason Cox and Russ Carter to bring a local casual dining experience to Bakersfield that would fit the needs of the community and reflect the family-friendly atmosphere of Bakersfield. The owners and staff of RJ’s take pride in the great food and service they provide to each guest. RJ’s would like to welcome you to join them for lunch, dinner, weekend breakfast, a sporting event or some late-night fun with great friends! At RJ’s there is something for everyone…whether it is one of our premium quality mid-western steaks, a unique appetizer, freshly tossed salad or the giant Fatboy Burger you are sure to be impressed! Hours: 11am-2am MonFri, 9am-2am Sat & Sun. Kitchen closes 9pm Sun-Th & 10pm Fri & Sat. Happy Hour M-F 3pm-6pm. rjsbarandgrill.com. 9440 Hageman Rd, Ste C. (661) 587-4723

PHOTO BY INNOVATIVEPHOTOGRAPHYANDMORE.COM

Agave Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar

Agave Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar offers a new way to experience old Mexico.

Agave proudly offers the best in authentic Mexican cuisine, along with contemporary fusions. Try the signature Tri-tip salad, a mix of crisp greens, roasted red peppers, onions and corn salsa, topped with sliced avocados and queso fresco along with succulent Tri-tip. Enchilada lovers, sample our Creamy Chicken & Spinach Enchiladas. A taste you wont forget! Agave’s full service bar boasts over 100 tequilas.

The menu offers a brief introduction to the elaborate world of tequilas and a history of its birthplace, Jalisco, Mx. Enjoy well known favorites or experience something new. Agave offers dine-in or take-out and a spacious banquet room for any occasion.

Located at 250 Oak Street (661) 322-4283

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The Dining Guide

Red Pepper Restaurant

Authentic and Inspired Mexican Cuisine! Since 1979. Chef Gilbert Sabedra’s critically acclaimed menu offers traditional Mexican favorites and gourmet Mexican cuisine. Seafood selections include lobster, shrimp, crab and halibut, or choose a superb steak, pork, chicken, or lamb entree, all with a Mexican flair that the Red Pepper is famous for. Offering Central California Coast wines, or enjoy a margarita, beer or cocktail in our fun and friendly bar. We have special wine events and offer full-service catering. Hours: Lunch daily from 11, Dinner Mon-Thu until 9, Fri & Sat until 9:30, Sun until 8:30, Sun Brunch from 10-2, Happy Hour Mon-Thu 3-6. Fwy. 178 @ 2641 Oswell St. #G. www.redpepperrestaurant.net (661) 871-5787

BGF Asian Diner

If you’re looking for something delicious from the far East, BGF Asian Diner is the perfect place to sample cuisine spanning the entire region, be it Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, or Japanese. Treat your family to our expansive menu featuring delicious beef, chicken, shrimp, and vegetable dishes, as well as fried rice, chow mein, Pad Thai, and classic Asian appetizers. Or, come in for a quick lunch or dinner yourself and try the Mongolian chicken, the Hunan beef, or the Szechuan shrimp. And don’t forget the traditional Hot and Sour soup and pot stickers. We also offer party trays.

Dine in or take out Fri-Wed 11am-3pm for lunch; 4-8pm for dinner. Closed Thursdays. Conveniently located at 1400 Calloway Drive. (661) 587-9202

El Portal West

The Dining Guide

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

Flame and Skewers

Since opening in February 2006, Flame and Skewers has impressed Bakersfield diners with authentic Mediterranean cuisine. When you want fresh, natural, flavorful food, this is the place to be. Mediterranean cuisine is rooted in the use of fresh and healthy ingredients. Every item boasts this philosophy—from the delicious and tender lamb kabob to the Shawerma, which is marinated and spiced slices of Tri-Tip Beef or Chicken grilled against an open fire. Diners have a variety of options including savory sandwiches, which are topped with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, hommus, and tajini sauce. www.flameandskewers.com. Two locations: 1201 24th St., open Mon-Sat 10:30am-8pm. (661) 325-1500. 5486 California Ave., open Mon-Sat 10:30am-10pm, Sunday 10:30am-7:30pm. (661) 328-0900

FISHLIPS... Music Cocktails Grill

Yes we’re still celebrating... 10 fantastic years downtown! Get your kids ready for school and then treat yourself to a nice quiet lunch or a fun evening out. Check out local favorite bands or upcoming shows. Serving Fish & Chips, Burgers, Tacos, Pasta, Salads, Tri-Tip and killer Clam Chowder. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-4pm. Dinner Tues-Sat 4pm til late. 1517 18th St. Please visit www.fishlips.org for comedy and concert events. Reservations or ticket info (661) 324-2557

Milt’s Coffee Shop

We’re celebrating our 45th anniversary! Join us for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and you won’t be disappointed. Everything on our menu is made from scratch giving a meal at Milt’s that fresh, homemade taste you can’t find anywhere else.

Plus, all our deli sandwiches are served with your choice of soup, salad, fries, potato salad, chips, fresh fruit, or cottage cheese, making the perfect lunch. And the variety doesn’t stop there. Try the Texas Chile Size—a burger loaded with chili and topped with cheese and onions. Dinner is a belt-busting affair with steaks, trout, pork loin, and honey stung fried chicken on the menu. We’ve also got fare for the calorie-conscious. “We are a happy place for hungry people.” Open seven days a week from 6am-10:30pm. 6112 Knudsen Dr. (661) 399-4975

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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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

Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe

Celebrating its 24th 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

Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar

A unique dining experience in Bakersfield, offering delicious foods and wines. A welcoming environment in the tradition of the neighborhood bistro. From taking that special someone out for an exquisite dinner, to hosting a staff lunch; Valentien can accommodate you. Seafood, Poultry, Beef, Exotic Game, Vegetarian; French Cuisine Fused with California Freshness. Known for our amazing sauces, and delectable dishes; everything is made from scratch. Including the desserts! With a Sommelier on staff, we feature an extensive wine list, primarily focusing on French and Californian wines. At Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, we believe that service is of utmost importance. A knowledgeable staff will guide your dining experience with grace and ease. We look forward to serving you.

OPEN for LUNCH FIVE DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm. OPEN for DINNER SEVEN NIGHTS A WEEK: Sun-Thur 5pm-9pm Fri & Sat 5pm-10pm.

All major credit cards accepted. Reservations recommended but not required. 3310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160, 93301 (661) 864-0397

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2010 95

The Dining Guide

Brookside Riverlakes Market & Deli

We are your one-stop shop for great, local flavor! Our goal is to offer more grocery items in the market and more variety in the deli for your convenience. From our high-quality meat to our breads, everything is fresh and local. Brookside also prepares our own salads and we have a large selection of wines and local products to choose from including Smith’s Bakery goodies to satisfy your sweet tooth. In addition to our Brookside breakfast and lunch menus, we have a catering menu that will help you celebrate any occasion with ease. Deli hours: Mon-Fri 5am-8pm, Sat 6:30am-8pm, Sun 6:30am-5pm. 4700 Coffee Road. Store: (661) 588-1338, Deli: (661) 588-2329

Café Med

NEW LOWER PRICES! 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. 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 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY 1910 – 2010 Old World & Authentic

The Dining Guide

Restaurant Hours: Tue-Sat 11am-2:30pm, Deli Hours: Tue-Sat 8am-4pm. 725 East 19th Street. shopluigis.com (661) 322-0926

Sushiya Bar & Grill

For a healthier alternative, nothing will satisfy your hunger like Sushiya Bar & Grill.

Located within walking distance of the Marriott Courtyard, Hilton, Doubletree, Holiday Inn, and other hotels at the intersection of the 58 and 99 freeways, Sushiya offers authentic Japanese sushi and rolls, a wide variety of appetizers, and a full bar that includes Japanese beers and sake. We have a wide variety of items for the sushi lover and non-fish eater alike, including chicken and sirloin steak teriyaki which are topped with our homemade balsamic reduced teriyaki sauce. Our restaurant is at the bottom of the Clarion Hotel which is between Carl’s Jr and Costco. Open Mon-Fri for lunch from 11am-2:30pm and for dinner from 5-9pm. Happy Hour daily from 4-7pm. 3540 Rosedale Highway. (661) 326-1111

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

96 Bakersfield Magazine

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

The Nines Restaurant

Located inside the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, The Nines is a great place for business lunches with a brand new lunch menu that features over 20 delicious selections under $10. Our dinner menu offers award-winning short ribs as well as nightly dinner specials, including Tuesday Prime Rib Night and Saturday Date Night Menus. The beautiful Private Dining Room can seat up to 12 and is a great place for that intimate dinner with family, friends or clients. Call ahead and our executive chef is happy to whip up a custom menu just for you. Reservations recommended but not required. Hours are Mon-Sun 6:30am-2pm and 5-10pm.

801 Truxtun Ave. (661) 565-9319

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. Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner MonThu 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Reservations recommended, lunch reservations for large groups only. www.uricchios-trattoria.com. 1400 17th St. Downtown. (661) 326-8870

The Womens Care Center Armi Lynn Walker, M.D. Cary Shakespeare, M.D. Pellevé tm Now Available Look Lovely, Feel Refreshed

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro is conveniently located at the Shops at Riverwalk, 10700 Stockdale Hwy. Visit us for food and drink specials during our Happy Hour everyday from 3-6 pm. You can also make a reservation or place a take-out order on-line at pfchangs.com. We serve lunch and dinner from 11am-10pm Sun-Thu, and 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday. We also offer an extensive menu that meets the needs of both vegetarian and gluten-free guests. We look forward to seeing you soon. (661) 663-8689

• • • •

Obstetrics, Gynecology & Infertility Pregnancy Testing Personalized Prenatal Care and Delivery Complete Gynecological Care, Contraception, Menopausal Issues • Minimally Invasive Surgery • Urinary Incontinence Testing • Comfortable, Relaxing Atmosphere

(661) 633-BABY (2229)

2021 22nd St., Bakersfield, CA 93301

Firooz Amjadi, M.D.

Izumo Japanese Restaurant & Sushi

Variety and style is what you can expect at Izumos. Experience our casual atmosphere where you have your choice of dining experiences. Visit us to enjoy the teppan-yaki, sample the sushi bar, or our more conventional order-off-the-menu setting. The teppan-yaki comes one dish at a time as the chef prepares it in front of you - they will amaze and impress with their skill and expertise. Our relaxed dining gives customers a chance to really enjoy our food and friendly service. Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Sun 5-10pm. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE. 4412 Ming Ave. (661) 398-0608

• Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery • Specializing in Neck & Back Adult Surgery • Neurosurgical/Orthopaedic Fellowship Trained • Board Certified 1921 18th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93301

(661) 324-2491 • (661) 821-0053

INTERNAL MEDICINE • PRIMARY CARE

Saturday Appointments Available

Bon Appétit Bakersfield Magazine Dining Guide • 834-4126

n Arun Softa, M.D. n Ambika Softa, M.D. n Elena C. Lewis, F.N.P n Rudy Herrera, D.C.

9900 Stockdale Hwy., Suite 200 DoctorSofta.com | 661.716.2600 B a k e r s f i e l d m a g a z i n e S P E C IAL AD V ER T ISING SE C T I O N

MEDICAL PROFILES

Kern Bone & Joint Specialists, Inc.

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You may even know the organization’s history—how it’s the first nonprofit organization in history to complete its original mission. But are you aware that in addition to making sure that premature babies have all the medical resources they need, the March of Dimes seeks to ensure all babies are born healthy? It’s not only premature babies that are born sick; full-term babies can be born with metabolic disorders, birth defects, and other illnesses that also require the help of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit full of medical equipment suited for their little bodies.

Yet all that equipment is expensive— and more research needs to be done to help pinpoint the causes of not only premature birth, but of newborn anomalies.

The number of screening tests performed on newborns to rule out certain genetic disorders has increased, and research on folic acid and its role in fetal development has been furthered by the money the March of Dimes has raised across

the United States in the past 30 years.

Still, more research is needed. That’s why the March of Dimes continues to host worth-while fund-raisers which offer more people the chance to understand that this is a mission we all need to get behind.

This year marks the third annual Signature Chefs Auction in Bakersfield, an extravagant evening full of decadent, savory food prepared by Bakersfield’s most renowned chefs; wines from around California; and a whole lot of heart.

2010 Bakersfield Signature Chefs Auction

An extravagant evening full of decadent, savory food prepared by Bakersfield’s most renowned chefs; wines from around California; and a whole lot of heart.

The Bakersfield Marriott October 28, 2010

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In years past, the amounts raised by the community has been impressive, and the local chapter is looking to further increase that number this October 28th.

With a theme of “Off the Vine,” all the participating chefs this year will be focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables as part of their recipes. Lucky for them, Kern County is filled to the brim with fresh produce. And as most people know, fresh produce is an important part of a pregnant woman’s diet.

Supporting the March of Dimes for the third year in a row, Chef John McFee, head chef at the Bell Tower Club, couldn’t be more excited.

Not only is he looking forward to the collaboration between other chefs involved, but this year he is the Lead Chef.

“It was a mutual agreement after last year,” McFee said, laughing. “They were asking me to be the Lead Chef and I was volunteering to be the Lead Chef.”

For McFee, whose younger sister was born premature, being involved with the March of Dimes gives him a great feeling.

“It’s rewarding to know you’re >>

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Chef John McFee, head chef at the Bell Tower Club will serve as Lead Chef for this year’s March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction.

You may have heard of the March of Dimes.

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Off the Vine helping these babies who need the extra for optimizing chances of having a “Women usually think they’re eating support,” he said. “And the event is so healthy baby,” added Renee Thomas, for two,” said Wendy Phillips, a Cliniexciting, and people have such a good R.N. Thomas is the Clinical Coordical Nutrition Manager for Kern Meditime, it makes it easy to want to be innator for the Family Birth Center at cal Center. “But it’s the quality, not volved.”

Mercy Hospital. She says “optimizing quantity that they should be paying atMcFee regularly uses fresh fruits and chances” because no one knows why tention to. Pregnant women need a lot vegetables in his recipes of vitamins A and C, a lot of at the Bell Tower Club DHA, and folic acid.” but says the challenge for According to Phillips, evchefs comes from trying to ery woman of childbearing ensure the recipe they plan age should be taking folic ahead of time will be seaacid. The amount of folic sonal come October. acid in your body affects the “The March of Dimes first 28 days of pregnancy, has these wonderful goals Phillips explained. And that’s for the community and it’s when the neural tube develmy job to help meet those ops, which becomes the spine. goals.”

So a lack of folic acid in the But because each chef mother’s body can sometimes is preparing something cause neural tube disorders, unique, the dishes are unlike spina bifida, when the der wraps until the night of neural tube does not close all the event. So no hints on the way. what McFee will be pre“Folic acid is in dark paring; you’ll just have to greens, but the synthetic form buy a seat. is more readily absorbed into And the cost of that seat the body,” Phillips added. is small when one consid“It’s important to help In years past, amounts raised by the community at the Signature Chefs Auction has been ers just what the March mothers understand what impressive. This year should prove just as successful for this great cause. of Dimes and research inthey should be doing during stitutions around the country can do some babies are born premature. And pregnancy to ensure a healthy baby,” with the money raised. For those folks further testing is needed to determine said Lynn Johnson, RLC, IBCLC, with who work with sick babies on a daily why some babies are born with birth Maternal Child Services at Bakersfield basis in our community, it’s especially defects. “The diet should be nutrient Memorial Hospital. wonderful to see the big turnouts. Bedense. Ideally, nutrition preparation “A pregnant woman has total control cause in addition to the money raised, should begin before conception.” over what she does and doesn’t eat and the public is being educated on ways to That’s because the baby’s health is that makes a significant impact on the have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy determined on the mother’s health. outcome of the pregnancy,” she added. baby.

“We want to help moms make good Grace Kwasman, the Director of choices and see them through the end “A pregnant woman has total Perinatal Services at San Joaquin Comof a pregnancy. Because during the last munity Hospital (the presenting sponsor few weeks, that’s when a majority of control over what she does and of this year’s Signature Chefs Auction), brain and lung development happens. doesn’t eat and that makes a says “the nutritional status of pregnant That should be the time when mom is significant impact on the outwomen, along with good prenatal care, eating a lot of high-protein, high-qualare keys to delivering a healthy baby.” ity foods. Like low fat meats, fruits, come of the pregnancy.”

One of the most important factors in grains, and water.”

– Lynn Johnson, BMH a healthy pregnancy is healthy weight These are the types of details that gain. “Obesity in pregnant women are important to pregnant women...

“Taking folic acid prior to and during can increase their risk for developing details that can help keep their bathe first trimester helps prevent [some gestational diabetes and hypertension bies out of NICUs; which is the misneurological birth defects],” Thomas (pre-eclampsia). On the other hand, if sion of the March of Dimes. So much continued. “The fetus gets most of its the mother is not eating enough to meet has been said about the impact the energy from glucose, so moms need the caloric requirements, a baby can be March of Dimes makes for babies in carbs, especially in the third trimester.” born with low birth weight.” our area, but we can’t stop talking...

But it’s very important not to eat too “Proper nutrition is the gold standard not until every baby is born healthy. n much.

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civic light opera association

It might be true that “all the

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“It’s been that way for a while,” he world’s a stage” (thanks, Shakespeare), said. “When we opened, it was just us but for over 40 years, Bakersfield Civic and Bakersfield Community Theatre.

Light Opera Association has been givToday, there are simply a lot more dising local thespians the chance to be on tractions.” an actual stage.

And it’s ultimately the community The name might not sound familiar, that suffers because of this. We should but the Association is the umbrella nonalways have the opportunity to drive profit organization downtown and that operates Stars see a highTheatre Restaurant, class BroadBakersfield Music way Musical Theatre (BMT), and with our neighthe BMT School bor; to enjoy a of the Performing gourmet dinArts, which began ner and a show in 2002. It’s a lot to on a Saturday manage...and it all night with a happens with very loved one; or little funding. support the “We put on an artistically-inenormous number clined children of productions a in our lives by year,” said Jim enrolling them Fillbrandt, Execuin programs tive Producer. Fillthat will finebrandt has been “We put on an enormous number tune their actwith the organizaing chops with of productions a year.” tion since its incepthe help of pro—Jim Fillbrandt, Executive Producer tion and, to this day, fessionals. continues to volunBut that’s teer his time in support of the theatre. what Fillbrandt, the two paid theatre “We’ll put on three productions at Harstaffers, and the many volunteers are vey Auditorium, three other one-nighters, working for. They’re adamant that nine shows at Stars, and the school puts community theatre not fall through on four a year,” Fillbrandt added. “That’s the cracks. an awful lot of theater. Yet, we’re con“It’s the audience that really helps stantly running the risk of having to close. us. The people who come and enjoy the

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productions are the ones who help us continue,” Fillbrandt explained. Ticket sales are everything. So to try and increase the number of people coming to shows, they’re expanding on the productions they do—and looking for younger shows. In addition to being able to see longstanding classics like The Sound of Music, Stars Theatre is also running comedies like The Full Monty and Once Upon a Mattress, the latter being a hilarious re-telling of “The Princess and the Pea,” and is running in August and September.

“Besides going to a show, there are quite a few ways people can get involved,” Fillbrandt continued. “Donations and ticket sales are obviously the biggest help since the money funnels right back into production costs, but volunteering of time can also help us continue to put on such great shows.”

There are a lot of people behind-thescenes that make a show spectacular—and help is always in need for the massive Broadway shows at Harvey Auditorium as well as the smaller productions at Stars.

But no matter the size of the production, the theatre’s supporters have a good time. At a recent fund-raiser, in which the nonprofit was able to raise over $25,000 through donations from generous theatre-goers, a great number of Bakersfieldians enjoyed a high-class dinner and a play written by Fillbrandt and Dan Marble.

“The point is to have fun,” Fillbrandt said. And have fun they did. The play was a spoof recounting the origins of the Bakersfield Sound. There was a lot of improvisation and laughter. No one wanted the show to end.

We can only hope the curtain call at this local theater will last a whole lot longer.

If you’d like more information on Stars, BMT, or the School of the Performing Arts, call (661) 325-6100. Of course, you can always check out a show for yourself and FIELD MAG see what you’ve been RS missing. Visit bmtstars. com for an upcoming M R UNI T Y PA production schedule. n TN

must go on!

SPOTLIGHT

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PHOTO COURTESY BAKERSFIELD MUSIC THEATRE

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The American Riviera GREAT

GETAWAYS

Ready for the mediterranean?

By Janet Wheeler

f a Mediterranean trip is not on you summer schedule this year, be thankful the American Riviera is just a couple of hours away.

Santa Barbara is unique amongst California’s coastal communities with its lush vegetation and long stretches of palmlined, golden sandy beaches against the azure-tinted ocean. These natural attributes provide the perfect backdrop for the city’s Old World architecture. Add in the temperate climate, unlimited recreational and cultural amenities; it’s easy to understand why Santa Barbara is a prime destination for the world’s rich and famous.

Santa Barbara’s proximity makes it the perfect destination for Bakersfield residents planning family vacations, romantic weekends, or even a day trip.

The Santa Barbara lifestyle is a pleasant blend of recreation and culture. And few cities this size (population approximately 100,000) offer more amenities.

With 50 city parks and nearly 300 days of sunshine, walking, running, bicycling, and outdoor activities of every kind are a part of daily life. From history to art,

there are museums that will appeal to everyone’s interest.

The quickest way to become acquainted with historic Santa Barbara and all it has to offer is to sign up for a city tour. Step aboard the Santa Barbara Old Town Trolley for a narrated tour of historic Santa Barbara. With your full-day pass, you can hop on and off at your leisure to shop and explore the city.

For an alternate view of the city, take Land and Sea Tours excursion in an amphibious vehicle called the Land Shark. You’ll get an overview of the city and its historic sites during the 90-minute tour, which culminates with a “drive” out into the harbor.

On either tour, you’ll recognize Santa Barbara’s quintessential style features the whitewashed walls and red-tiled roofs so prominent in Spanish architecture. The style reflects the city’s deep Spanish roots, which can still be seen downtown at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Originally, the presidio was the center of government for a military district that extended from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles, and, in its day, was considered the finest presidio in California.

Santa Barbara’s first Christian church was located at the presidio, but the Santa Barbara Mission, established in 1876, was destined to become the city’s icon. The original mission buildings were simple adobe structures and three churches were built upon the site prior to the construction of the present church. Considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the California missions, this church still has an active congregation but visitors can take a self-guided tour daily.

It would be hard to visit Santa Barbara and not block out a fair amount of time to spend here at the water, whether it’s basking on the south-facing beach or exploring the shops, restaurants, and museums at Santa Barbara Harbor or nearby Stearn’s Wharf.

Stearn’s Wharf has the distinction of being the oldest operating wooden pier in California. Built by a lumber merchant in the late 1800s, the wharf is now one of the city’s biggest tourist attractions and a great place to find fresh seafood or do a little wine tasting. Families will want to include the wharf’s Ty Warner Sea Center in their itineraries. The center >>

Santa Barbara

Vacation Destination:

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Great Getaways

Santa Barbara Mission is the crown jewel of all California missions.

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offers interactive exhibits showcasing the wonders of the deep.

More seafaring explorations can be found at the Maritime Museum, located at Santa Barbara Harbor. This museum offers a look into the region’s rich maritime history, from the early Chumash to present-day deep-sea research. This museum also offers a special discovery section for children.

Tickets to sailing, whale watching, sport fishing, kayaking, diving or a sunset cruise may be purchased at the wharf or harbor. The Santa Barbara Channel is one of the world’s best whale-watching spots and summer is the season for spotting blue whales. These massive mammals can measure up to 100 feet in length, making them the largest animals on Earth. Other whale species are seen at various times throughout the year, but you don’t need to spot a whale to enjoy one of these ocean excursions. The dolphins and porpoises that inhabit the channel provide ample entertainment.

On Sunday, the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show encourages a more leisurely stroll along the waterfront as more than 250 exhibitors display their talents on Cabrillo Boulevard, between State and Santa Barbara streets (10 a.m. to dusk).

One of the best views of the city is from the harbor’s breakfront. The city clings to the adjacent hillsides and neighborhoods spread up into the lush green hills capturing spectacular views of the coastline.

Take a drive up the narrow roads that wind their way through these hillside neighborhoods and you’ll see a variety of architectural styles tucked beneath a canopy of trees and surrounded by variegated foliage and cascading bougainvillea. You’ll also find interesting attractions tucked into the hills, including Santa Barbara’s 78-acre botanical gardens. Take a walk along the garden’s five and half miles of trails and discover many of California’s rare and indigenous plant species.

You’ll also want to schedule time for a visit to the nearby Museum of Natural History. The museum features exhibits focusing on the earth sciences – from anthropology to zoology – and the recently renovated Gladwin Planetarium offers a variety of programs with family-friendly times and prices.

Families will also want to make time to visit the Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens. The zoo is ideally situated on 30 acres perched upon a knoll overlooking the ocean. It is home to more than 500 animals, but visitors can easily make their way through in two to three hours. Youngsters will enjoy feeding giraffes, watching diving penguins, and coming face-to-face with a meerkat. The zoo is open daily, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The time to visit Santa Barbara is right now! What are you waiting for? v

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High Tea

The eighth annual Garden Pathways High Tea for “Women with a heart for Bakersfield” was held at Seven Oaks County Club. This year, philanthropists Kim Albers, Cathy Butler, Susan Hersberger, and Dayna Nichols were honored as guests gathered to show their support for these charitable women who make a considerable contribution to our community.

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Alanna Eveland, Valerie Hernandez, Isobelle Halling & Sarah Hernandez

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112 Bakersfield Magazine

Moses & Martha Juarez & Vivian Bell

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A delightful evening of wine tasting was just what Bakersfield needed. Hundreds gathered at the Kern County Museum grounds to sample wines from over 21 different California and international wineries, nibble on delectable hors d’oeuvres, and dance the night away. And the money raised from the live and silent auctions will benefit the Kern County Museum.

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The first-ever Grand Hollywood Premier Gala was a huge success for the American Cancer Society of Kern County. Over 300 guests strolled the grounds of Stockdale Country Club as they perused vintage cars, indulged in fabulous food, explored wonderful auction items, and enjoyed lively music. Funds raised support local patient programs, education, and national research.

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bakersfield’s sound

tagecoach routes were all the rage in the 1873. Just ask John Wayne—he starred in that movie about stagecoaches for which no one can remember the title.

Still, traveling along Julius Chester’s new stagecoach service from Bakersfield to Glennville and back was a 16-hour round trip over fairly rough terrain. So, John Elden got the idea to construct a stopover area a little past the halfway point. About five hours from Bakersfield, Granite Station would become a well-known stop for coaches, freights, and sheep shearers throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was first known as Five Dogs Gulch, Five Dogs Crossing, and Five Dogs Creek (we found reference to all three names). Thankfully, the confusion wouldn’t last, as it was later named Elmer for a brief period of time before officially being named Granite in 1875. The Station would become famous for being a stage stop where no one was ever killed, much to the chagrin of cowboys everywhere...and our executive editor. But when one considers the gratuitous way stagecoaches and the Old West are depicted, that’s quite a feat.

Yet the locale was not entirely devoid of raucous behavior. After all, it was frequented by the types of people that could make Yosemite Sam blush. But it still maintained its charm.

For example, in 1902, the recently wed Mrs. Iris Beatty was on her way to Delonaga Hot Springs on the Kern River, where her husband Charles was employed at a popular resort.

The trip would take two days on the four-horse stage owned by Bill May. Naturally, the length of the trip required a stopover at Granite Station. But when Iris arrived, the operators of the hotel were concerned about having such a beautiful woman amidst the regulars. In other words, an “unaccompanied” lady would be roosting for the night with rowdy, inebriated sheep shearers.

So, the owners suggested Iris retire early. Though she followed their advice, Iris still woke up to the sounds of drunken tomfoolery. Somehow, they hadn’t breeched her door. That’s because Mr. May had, very gentlemanly-like, placed his sleeping bag at the foot of her door. Talk about Old West charm. But that fits right in with the history of Granite Station, which tragically burned to the ground in 1993. It went down in history as a place full of the types of things the Old West is famous for...except for the lack of killings, that is.

the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen.

114 Bakersfield Magazine

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