BakersfieldMagazine • 27-4 Corporate Relocation • COOL Issue 2.0

What TRIP Means to You

VOL. 27 NO. 4

Local Heroes of the Civil War

Coastal Favorites Great Eat-Aways

YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.

fall 2010

30+ More!

COOL 2.0 3.50

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20th Annual Corporate Relocation Issue Sir Richard Branson and Burt Rutan take us to the stars.

Mojave Air & Space Port Unrestricted Dream Space pg.57

BakersfieldMagazine.net We’re everywhere you are.

EXCLUSIVE! The Return of The Bakersfield Business Conference Official Syllabus Inside

We know “

After all, we were Bakersfield’s

n Hospital to have both a Nationally Certified Stroke Center and

Nationally Accredited Chest Pain Center under the same roof. n Nationally Certified, hospital-based Diabetes Education Program. n Hospital to perform open-heart surgery. n Hospital-based Mobile Immunizations Program. n Full-treatment Grossman Burn Center. n Hospital-based 64-slice CT scanner. n Gold Standard Bariatrics Program.

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When only the best will do!

Summer Salad

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Try The Nines Restaurant for lunch.

Over 20 items to choose from for under $10.00

FALL 2010

Contents

f e at u r e s

They caught our eye, do they catch yours?

Stuff We Like........................22 Discover the many roles our county played

Civil War in Kern...............30 Hip peeps, rad bands, killer places

IT’S BACK! COOL 2.0

CORPORATE RELOCATION

33

Why Be Happy for Just One Hour?

Enjoy your favorite drinks, signature

The event of the decade is back for a 2 5 t h A n n i v e r s a r y E n c o re P re s e n t a t i o n

cocktails and tasty appetizers all day

Borton PEtrini, LLP’s

long in the m.i. greatroom. Happy Hour

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specials are $3 Drafts and $5 Well and Wine drinks.

syllabus

43 S-1

Orange cones mean big things for Bakersfield

GROWING A CITY

Future energy needs are blowing in the wind

Natural Means Big Biz.............53

Where oil and mustaches go hand-in-hand

Where rocket ships and imaginations collide

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bakersfieldmarriott.com Bakersfield Magazine

UNRESTRICTED DREAM SPACE

57

100 YEARS OF OILDORADO

119

A horse is a horse—that helps this charity

Nonprofit Spotlight................122

The county can’t spell success without KEDC

It’s a brand new organization with a big goal

Keeping Doors Open........69

Breathing Easier................125

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010

v

FALL 2010

Contents

D E P ART M E N TS C o n fe s s i o n s o f a Q u a s i - C - L i s t C e l e b

We’d say this pesto is really the “besto”

Letter from the Editor..............13

Quick Bites..........................98

Local people, places, and things...oh my!

A poppin’ menu inside this hoppin’ hotel

Kern Facts..........................15

What’s Cookin’........................99

Never underestimate the power of a suit

The Bakersfield Look ...........27 A local celeb who’s really touched a chord

Citizen Kern......................29 How to prepare for incoming employees

Human Resources...................50

This watering hole is pourin’ cowboy classics

bottoms up

102

South of the border never tasted so good

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way...103 A little winery that’s bottling up big flavor Things to remember as you plant for fall

Gardening with mrs. p

87

Life is a Cabernet...................107

Compost your way to a greener garden

Going Green........................89

It’s a short drive to these coastal favorites

Great eat-aways

109

We came, we saw, we took your picture Bring autumn indoors with these tips

Home & garden Bakersfield Magazine

93

Party Chatter....................135 A field where Red & White fever strikes

Bakersfield’s Sound.......138

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010

remembering

Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend

S

Vol. 27 No. 4

Fall 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

SURPLUS INC. & SPECIALTY METALS A PROUD THANK YOU TO THE BAKERSFIELD COMMUNITY FOR DOING BUSINESS WITH US FOR 47 YEARS Your One Source For All Of Your Pipe & Steel Needs At The Best Price

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10 Bakersfield Magazine

Contributing Writers Charlie Durgin, Tracie Grimes LaNell Hart, Jason Gutierrez Robin Paggi, Tom Xavier

Accounting/Human Resources Melissa Galvan Distribution/Circulation Brigit Ayers

Cover Art Virgin Galactic/Mark Greenberg Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. 1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 Office (661) 834-4126 Fax (661) 834-5495 Email: marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net website: bakersfieldmagazine.net

MON-FRI 7-5 SAT 7-NOON

HADDAD KIA of BAKERSFIELD

“A New Way To Roll”

Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez

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.

Subscribe now at bakersfieldmagazine.net

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 11

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

Green

Pages

G re e n P a g e s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

home & Garden resources

Home & Garden..................94

The Dining Guide The Dining Guide..................111

community partners Community Par tners...........116

MEDICAL PROFILES Medical Profiles...................128

Kern Health Resource Guide...129

Shoppers Bazaar................130

Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory Worship Director y...............132

everafters...

Weddings............................133

KernHealth Best Docs

Cheap Eats g in er m b Co cem 10 De 2 0

12 Bakersfield Magazine

Letter from the Editor

I was warned...I always knew there’d come a day—in fact, before I accepted this position I was guaranteed it!

“You’ll never know when or where, but be prepared,” they said.

There’s no real training for these situations; no online course; no book for dummies. It’s more of an on-the-job kind of thing. Since my first issue, I’ve been on the lookout but, I admit, I’d let my guard down. A couple weeks ago, I was attending a local function, an informal gathering, and some of Bakersfield’s notables were in attendance. Yet a few minutes after our arrival, I felt kinda funny—a sort of nervousness overtook my entire being. My senses picked up on someone paying more attention to our group than normal, yet I couldn’t pinpoint who. A bead of sweat formed at my temple—maybe the afternoon setting sun? Maybe not. This was weird.

As the evening progressed, a “voice” kept telling me “Danger! Will Robinson!” I took in the layout of the room, but didn’t notice any signs of an immediate threat (while mentally noting the only exit was through one door or over the balcony...12 stories below). Yet there was this nagging feeling.

Still, I proceeded to the serving line with my posse in tow (my lovely wife, the publisher and his date, and the director of marketing and his wife). Being a quasi-C-list celeb and all, I don’t leave home without them because...you never know.

And that’s when it happened. All of the sudden, outta the shadows steps a woman dressed in black, with a sinister smile, and she’s looming toward me and yelling “Hey! You’re that spider guy!”

Turns out she was one of the friendly event staff and had seen me in the magazine...I’d been recognized!

I stumbled for intelligent words, but only managed a faint “uh huh.” She proceeded to tell me and my posse (who, by this time, had formed an impregnable human shield around me...well sort of) how much she had enjoyed my last editorial; that she and her boyfriend (who was an artist) were really intrigued at the thought of “silver black widows.”

This was no run-of-the-mill stalker—this was a true fan!

They had been right; I had no clue how to

©istockphoto.com/drgrounds

Confessions of a Quasi-C-List Celeb

act, except a little embarrassed for my lack of dialogue (I’m an introvert by nature). I hope she doesn’t reveal my bad behavior to perezhilton.com!

All in all, I was flattered by the fact that she took time out her day to let me know that I had made a difference in hers—I think that’s really cool. And speaking of cool... we’ve done it again! We’ve compiled another 30-plus item list of the Funkiest People, Grooviest Places, and Hippest Things that make Bakersfield such a cool place to live.

That’s right, we’re talking about the COOL Issue: Cool 2.0, with enough local tidbits to keep you the life of trivia nights for years to come. The coolness starts on page 33.

And with the change in seasons comes our annual Corporate Relocation Section.

This year, being our 20th presentation, is one of our best—featuring in-depth coverage on TRIP (Thomas Roads Improvement Program) on page 43, as well as a great story on “natural” business in Kern County on page 53. And a favorite of mine: a look at the Mojave Air & Space Port (page 57).

We are also very excited to present the 2010 Borton Pertrini, LLP Bakersfield Business Conference Syllabus in its entirety! Happening every five years now, 2010 marks the 25th Anniversary of the Conference and Bakersfield Magazine was fortunate enough to team up with Borton Petrini, LLP in publishing this commemorative, highly-collectible Conference Syllabus exclusively in your magazine! The Syllabus starts immediately following page 66.

After seeing how great this issue turned out, I think my quasi-C-list celeb status might just be upgraded. Enjoy.

8200 Stockdale Hwy. Ste D7 Mike Corum comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net

832-4270

www.sneadsformen.com www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 13

14 Bakersfield Magazine

Kern Facts

People • Places • Events

She’s a philanthropist and he’s the Co-owner of Hansen’s Moving and Storage–which is a good thing, because this couple is always on the move.

HIS

& Hers

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

Flemming: My first thought when I met Ann was that she was very young and that this was just simply not going to last. However, that simply was not the case!

Ann: What beautiful blue eyes and broad shoulders. He was an assistant manager at Payless Drug Store. He was 24 years old and I was 17 years young.

We had lots of coffee breaks together and I was finally able to date him the day after my 18th birthday!

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

Flemming: I was very late to pick her up on our first date and her dad told me to have her home by 10:30 p.m.

It was already 8 p.m.! I played country music (she only listened to soul). I thought...this is our first and perhaps last date.

Ann: On one date, he took me flying in a private plane. He was the pilot and flipped the plane around.

Ann & Flemming Hansen in step with:

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

Flemming: The craziest thing Ann did for me was my surprise 40th birthday party. A bag lady knocked at our door, the house was full of guests, and as the music started, her clothes slowly dwindled.

Ann: One day he purchased our 2nd home in Mission Viejo to my surprise.

It was 2,800 sq. ft. and a mess. However, 10 months later, after 37 1/2 gallons of Spring White Lucie Paint and all the trimmings, it was gorgeous! We did it together.

What is your spouse’s biggest phobia?

Flemming: I can honestly say that Ann does not have any phobia—there is nothing that she will not try at least once and is always willing to try it again.

Ann: Flemming is afraid of heights.

On a recent trip to Australia, he even bought a ticket to walk the Sidney Harbor Bridge to overcome it! He changed his mind so I framed his ticket with my photo on the bridge.

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

Flemming: Ann is the first to step out and admit being wrong. I, on the other hand, hate admitting when I’m wrong...probably because I’m very seldom wrong!

Ann: I am the first to admit I’m wrong.

I’m not a shy person.

What is your spouse most passionate about?

Flemming: She is passionate about cooking, eating healthy foods, and eating dinner on time with no TV. Ann: Flemming is passionate about life and wanting to know everything there is to know about everything! He is most passionate about our home in Lake Tahoe and skiing his heart out.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Bakersfield?

Flemming: I love being outdoors and, of course, listening to country music at the Crystal Palace.

Ann: I love to volunteer in Bakersfield.

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

Flemming: I would say that I have no pet peeves...Ann is a very positive person with a great personality and is very easy to live with.

Ann: He has no patience to just watch one program—he clicks the remote constantly. It’s OK, though, because I just love the passion he still has for me.

He is the ultimate provider, husband, father, and “bestefar” (“grandpa” in Norwegian), and adores his dog, Scarlet.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 15

Kern Facts

People • Places • Events

Local

expressions

W

ithout a single art class to decorate his own home with his works. under his belt, Johnny Ramos “It was something to keep my mind ochas been able to make a significant impres- cupied and it turned into something of an sion on the art community—with some of obsession. I would have friends come over his works going for thousands to rabid col- and tell me that I just had to do something lectors. But the West High grad remains humbled by the success and focuses that excess attention inward to his work.

“Inspiration for me comes from mid-century modernist painters and those of the early 1970s. And I’m influenced by people and things in my life. But women will inspire colors,” Ramos said. The women Ramos has known have provoked him to paint in big, bold colors and patterns, and even inspired paintings that seem to come from a I was refurbishing softer, dreamier palfurniture and would ette. There’s also a see paintings painting with violent in boutiques strokes and dark red and think, colors. “But that’s anI can do that. other story,” Ramos quipped with a smile.

–Johnny Ramos He was 30 years old before he discovered the artist inside. He had notebooks full of sketches and ideas for what would one day become incredibly surreal and modern works of art, but in 2005, painting was still something that hadn’t taken hold.

“At one point, I was refurbishing furniture and I was in L.A. I would see with my paintings. I was sort of pushed paintings in boutiques and think, ‘I can do into it,” he added, chuckling. that,’ ” the 35-year-old explained.

He began approaching local boutiques Now, it’s true that many of us see a and found success comes for those who modernist-style painting and assume work hard. Only a year after he fell into we could do the same thing if we put a the art form, he was seeing his work brush to canvas (or in the case of Ramos, hanging in local places like Tangerine. wood). However, how many of us have And within just a few years, he was seeactually tried and succeeded? ing a much bigger response—it was With a tenacious fervor, Ramos began in well-respected art galleries in town 16 Bakersfield Magazine

and he was consistently being invited to hang his work in rooms across the city.

The dedication he shows to his art is impressive. That presents a challenge since he does have a day job. But now that he and business partner Kynan Chambers have created Bossanova Studios, a venue for his work to be constantly on display, he can have more showings and reach a larger audience.

“I wasn’t happy with a show every four or five months,” he explained of previous gallery experience. Ramos is creatively at his peak the week before a show, and sometimes that means staying up all night (and not showering for a few days) before a show, finishing the signature piece, so he’s happy with the added pressure.

So what’s next for an artist who’s found himself in the center of Bakersfield’s art scene?

And for someone who has willingly given of his time and art to charities in the community (like donating work to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County’s annual ArtFest)? For starters, he’s doing all the artwork for a children’s book he’s putting out with a friend of his (who’s a lawyer), due out early next year. He’ll also be expanding into new markets—the L.A., Santa Barbara, and Palm Springs markets to be specific, bringing attention to Bakersfield in a big way.

“I’m very proud to be an artist from Bakersfield and I love to say I’m from Bakersfield to clients from outside the city.”

And based on the fact that locals have frequently been seen stealing the posters advertising one of his shows off walls and windows, it would seem Bakersfield is equally as proud of Ramos.

In & Around B•Town

Fan-tastic W

some of the e’ve all seen turbines in massive wind area. ave wind resource the Tehachapi-Moj ourd fin we suddenly As we drive south, ines rb tu th wind farm, wi selves in a massive ing do ’re the sky. They that extend high in ’re ey th t ’s economy, bu a lot for our county d di e, pl am ol facts. For ex also a wealth of co e th of e es on som you know that blad ? ng lo are 130 feet largest turbines feet ective for you, 130 rsp To put that in pe ory st e on s, and that is is roughly 13 storie a! ale Tower. Who taller than Stockd

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NUMBERS 47

953 1856 4,500 400,000 70,000,000

Number of Bakersfield city parks Number of acres in Tule Elk State Reserve Kern County’s first Fourth of July celebration Number of hotel rooms in Bakersfield Number of people who watched Discovery land at Edwards AFB in 1988 Gallons of ice cream Dreyers facility can produce a year

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bakersfieldbiz.us, Bakersfield College, Historic Chronology of Kern County; visitbakersfield.com ©istockphoto.com/sjlocke

POP Quiz W

ow, you guys are good! We had tons of people enter our last Pop Quiz and nearly everyone had the answer correct! Naturally, that means we have to work harder to stump you. So take a gander at this and see if you can identify where we took the picture. You’ll be generously rewarded for getting it right—a $30 Russo’s Books gift certificate will be yours. Send your guesses to comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net. Good luck!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 17

©istockphoto.com/gerenme

Kern Facts

BOOMINGS BUSINES ar, arlier this ye lo ffa Business First of Bu s es sin ’s Bu (Western New York ss ro ac that Newspaper) reported largest la0 10 e th , the country nearly 3.5 bor markets had lost ring jobs in million manufactu cording to the past 10 years ac deral data. recently released fe and nothThat’s a lot of jobs

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However, ing to smile about. brighter tle lit a the sun shines at same Th . eld here in Bakersfi that the data also showed manng di ad only market during ufacturing jobs as Baw de the last deca a gain of kersfield, with . Now that ns 1,900 positio ile about. is something to sm

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NEWS FLASH...WINNING

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IS GREAT!

e’ve had some big winners recently and we can’t wait to share their pictures with you (don’t worry, they said we could). But you could count yourself among them...all you have to do is join the A-List! You’ll have the opportunity to enter great drawings and contests.

Visit bakersfieldmagazine.net for FOR YOUR CHANCE!

Stuff We Like Bakersfield Magazine Vault Prizes Samantha Olea Pop Quiz Anna’s Cards and Gifts Kandace Miller Alma Perez Village Fest VIP Tickets Beladagio Amanda Miller Shawna Marty-Davisson Laura Bailey Biscuit Boutique & Doggy Spa Davina Meza Spencer C. Schluter Laura Stewart Casa Bella Best Pick-Up Line Joy Spicer Shari George House of Mosely & Co. Rozanne Vizcana Boys & Girls Club ArtFest Jim Luff Pay It Forward Melody Popel Pixie Campbell A-List Jan Friedly

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18 Bakersfield Magazine

Kandace Miller

laura stewart

People • Places • Events

KCFD

G

Fire Goats

oats have long had a reputation as eating machines.

A group of goats can clear a field in no time at all—which got some people thinking; wouldn’t it be beneficial to use goats to clear brush during fire season? So, with the help of grants, our Kern County Fire Department is currently working with some adorable 4-legged animals. “It’s a great opportunity and we’re learning as we go,” said Kern County Fire Department PIO Sean Collins.

Instead of having to send crews up to maintain fuel break areas throughout the spring and summer, where brush was previously cleared, a herd of goats will do the grounds-keeping. This will be a big help come next year’s fire season. “It’s going to save a lot of time, gas, and resources,” Collins added.

Those crews

which previously had to go back to maintain fuel breaks can, instead, be making new breaks.

Collins said the Department transferred 17 goats up to the Pine Mountain Club area in mid-July. And next year, they hope to see the benefits of these brusheaters.

“We’re wanting to continue growing this program, growing the herd. Then we’ll move them to places where we need to maintain those fuel breaks, places in the mountainous areas of Kern River Valley, Tehachapi, and Frazier Park.”

The biggest way to grow this pilot program is by involving the public...and they’ve got a great way to do this! By giving them the opportunity to sponsor a goat.

“They’d get to name the goat and help us care for it,” Collins explained of those who make a financial contribution. “And they’d know that the goat was doing it’s part to help the community.”

Because by gobbling up the dry grasses, these goats may just be the ticket to keeping Kern County from getting burned for years to come. If you’d like more information on adopting a goat, call (661) 330-0133.

Not a

BAAAD idea!

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 19

Kern Facts

By LaNell Hart

Grab Your Tissues & Head To The Fox...

Firooz Amjadi, M.D. • Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery • Specializing in Neck & Back Adult Surgery • Neurosurgical/Orthopaedic Fellowship Trained • Board Certified Dr. Amjadi obtained his medical training from the UCLA School of Medicine. He then completed a residency in orthopaedics at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic Foundation and an additional fellowship in neurosurgery and orthopaedic spine surgery at Cedars-Sinai in Southern California. Dr. Amjadi is board certified in orthopaedic surgery and specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery to reduce pain and recovery time while improving functionality and disability from surgery.

Dr. Amjadi is now welcoming new patients!

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20 Bakersfield Magazine

ant to plan an evening of venues. The Fox is the auditorium for the live entertainment the Downtown Elementary School and for whole family will enjoy? Then the middle school graduations each year. mark November 12, 13, and 14 on your As a rental venue, the Fox has served pre2010 calendar. Those miers, movies, plays, are the dates the Fox weddings, memorial Theater and Spotservices, business Fox Theater light Theatre have meetings, magicians, Cinematic scheduled their jointcomedians, and coninstitution effort presentation of for over certs for the last 80 80 years. the live musical, “For years. the Love of MagThe Fox was purgie.” The evenings of chased and saved musical theater are from being demolplanned in celebraished in 1994 by dotion of the majestic nations from the peoFox Theater’s 80th ple and corporations birthday. of Bakersfield, mak“Maggie,” creing it truly a comated by local munity treasure composer Ann that is not depenAgabashian and dent on taxpayer late author/lyricist money, which is Barbara Gardner, why events like tells a story of ro“Maggie” are so immance between Lord Douglas and Maggie portant. All proceeds from the musical preMooney, real people who met in Bakers- sentation will go to the on-going restoration field around the turn of the century (see of the Fox Theater and the Spotlight Thepage 24 for more on the loving couple). atre. Tickets are available through ValliTix. Other historically-inspired events such as fights over water rights, land fraud, and drilling for oil, enliven the story and carry the romance along. Rated “G” for Good Fun, “Maggie” features the talents of local performers and some of Bakersfield’s best-known musical theater actors. wood crews Evening performances are In 1960, Holly d scheduled for Friday and on Bakersfiel descended up Saturday, with a matinée from Alfred to film scenes performance on Sunday. coming Hitchcock’s up , Opened Christmas movie Psycho Day in 1930, the Fox t Leigh and starring Jane Theater was built to ns.

Anthony Perki serve both the movie industry and vaudeville. Its fully operational ce :K stage and 1,500 seat theater ern Co provides a perfect setting for live unt yF ilm C theater, as well as other entertainment omm

Good “Eve...ning”

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To make an appointment with Dr. Amjadi, call:

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DIDYA WIN?

in gift certificates to t’s a great day to give away $100 l Mexican Restaurant. a prize. Actually, we like to give El Porta ly If you’re not a member of the prizes away every day, so there real ess, magazine’s A-List, just visit our website isn’t any cause for celebration. Unl r to and sign up today. It’s fast and free–two of course, you’re the first A-Liste at words we all love to hear. It’s the only spot your name below and email us t. way you’ll ever see your name listed alis t@b ake rsfi eld ma gaz ine .ne g below and it’s your only chance to win.

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Kern’s Rolling Roadshow

here was blood. Not literally, of connection to the early oil industry, we course. But when the Alamo Draft- were a natural choice for the screening house and Levi’s® 2010 Rolling Road- of Anderson’s flick. And just in case you weren’t aware, Anshow came to derson actually town, and invited visited the Kern the entire town County Museum to a screening of Paul Thomas to do research Anderson’s There during the movie’s filming.

Will Be Blood at The Rolling Road the Kern County -show people conMuseum, people tacted the Museum took note. They this summer about also took lawn having the screening chairs. take place there— In August, Bawhich proved to kersfield played be a perfect locale. host to the nationPHOTO PROVIDED BY KERN COUNTY MUSEUM Where better to wide tour of free watch a movie about outdoor 35mm screening experiences which paired some the rough life of early oil workers than of the country’s favorite films with the lo- surrounded by reminders of our county’s cations where they were shot or set. With past?

The night of the show, the grounds were a theme of “We Are All Workers,” the film festival celebrated the hard-work- packed. There might have been blood at ing men and women who helped shape one point, but the night of the screening, the country. Because of Kern County’s there were only cheers.

2615 Chester Avenue

661-395-3000 www.sjch.us

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 21

Kern Facts McCall’s Country Canning Candles, $23 Country Apple 10111 Rosedale Hwy. (661) 588-6895

49ers Infant NFL Jersey, $35 Touchdown Sports 9000 Ming Ave., Ste. T2 (661) 663-3358

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Mitsubushi 65” 3D-ready TV, $2,199 Urner’s 4110 Wible Rd. (661) 396-8400

Posh Leotard with attached Tutu, $33.99 Planet Dance 8200 Stockdale Hwy., Ste. H2 (661) 831-5678

GloTherapeutics, Glo Super Serum, $115 La Dolce Vita Salon & Spa 2100 19th St. (661) 861-4900

Love Potion Sequined Sweater, $178 Kaur Boutique 9000 Ming Ave., Ste. 1-2 (661) 664-7800

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Read our “Stuff W e Like” blog at bakersfieldmagaz ine.net to get all the details on how you can win $50 Gift Cert ificates to the places we’ ve featured.

Vieta Handbag,$99 Apricot Lane Boutique 9000 Ming Ave., Ste. J-1 (661) 332-9019

22 Bakersfield Magazine

People • Places • Events

Jackie Parks, KERO-TV anchor, “reports” her five favorite things!

1

Watching my children sleep. After a long day of running, jumping, playing, and squabbling, nothing is more peaceful than their faces as they finally give in to slumber. And if I’m fairly sure I won’t wake them, I may even sneak a kiss on a soft cheek.

2

Walking along the beach. This goes for almost any beach along almost any ocean.

I have never found another place that provides the same calming effects on my mental kinks.

3

Lilacs. These fragrant flowers were one of my fondest childhood memories from Washington State and one of my biggest disappointments is that they struggle to survive Central Valley heat.

4

The Gorgonzola Filet at T.L. Maxwell’s downtown. Thank goodness Terry Maxwell introduced this entrée to me years ago because it has become the dish I would request if I knew I was offered one final meal. And, if I added dessert, I would have to request a slice of my mother’s strawberry-rhubarb pie.

5

Fall and football. And, despite their dismal record of the last decade, Washington Husky football. The chill in the air, crackle in the fireplace, and the purple and gold lining up for kickoff make any Saturday...a great Saturday.

From Start to Finish...

We are Bakersfield’s Premier Turn-Key Builder.

661.587.9816 | DelfinoHomes.com

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 23

Kern Facts

The Rest of the Story...

PHOTO COURTESY CALIFORNIA DIGITAL NEWSPAPER COLLECTION

A

s a sort of “part two” to the history tidbit we gave you last issue about the British coming to Bakersfield, we thought we’d include this love story...

“With this story of the Rosedale remittance men belongs the romantic tale of the wooing of Loretta Addis by Lord Sholto Douglas, third son of the Marquis of Queensbury. Loretta Addis was Miss Maggie Mooney’s stage name, and Miss Maggie Mooney was a pretty and piquant little Irish girl who made an honest, if not conventional, living for herself by doing a turn on the stage of big Frank Carson’s place on 20th Street.

Sholto proposed on every appropriate and inappropriate occasion he could find. But Loretta was suspicious of alliances with the nobility [assuming the] marquis and marchioness never would sanction the match.

Finally, the young Lord’s friends interfered to break up the languishing match, and, failing in persuasive tactics, they had Sholto arrested on a charge of insanity. Then they set to work to get Miss Mooney out of Bakersfield.

The love affairs of Lord Sholto and Loretta Addis made a good story, or at least the stories that the Bakersfield [reporters] sent out looked good to the San Francisco city editors, and [so] they gave the local correspondents carte blanc, printed their stuff on the front page, and clamored for more.

C. P. Fox and W. D. Young were working the story together. When Sholto was locked up in one of the private rooms at the sheriff’s quarters, and Sholto’s friends were about to succeed in persuading Miss Mooney to move, Young and Fox saw the end of their pay streak. They visited Miss Mooney [and painted a] picture of Sholto’s despair, spurned by his heart’s desire and charged with madness, for nothing more than that he loved the fair Loretta. Miss Mooney knew the blarney when she heard it. Their arguments fell flat. Then Young played his trump card.

“Let them renounce you, if they dare,” he exclaimed, “and you go on the stage as Lady Sholto Douglas, daughter-in-law of the Marquis of Queensbury.”

The practical instinct of a good press agent won where flattering and persuasion failed.

Fifteen minutes later, Fox and Young, and Deputy Sheriff Joe Droulliard were ushering Miss Mooney into the little room where Sholto [waited].” The two lived happily ever after.

Source: History of Kern County, California by Wallace M. Morgan.

Historic Record Company, Los Angles, California, 1914.

24 Bakersfield Magazine

Skilled Hands

experts make it look easy.

Geared up S

nider’s Cyclery mechanic Robert Soto took a fairly conventional path to becoming a bike mechanic. “I was actually a bike assembler, and I got tired of doing that,” Soto said.

Bicycles come from the factory mostly assembled, with minor parts like the handlebars attached in the shop. The rest is just small adjustments.

“Being a bike mechanic means you know how to tear a bicycle down and put it back together, from top to bottom— and on any bike,” Soto said.

It takes patience and time to become a bike mechanic, and you don’t do it to get rich.

It’s about sticking it out, doing the dismal work like changing flats and assembling bikes in order to work on the cooler aspects—building wheels or nice carbon bikes.

Soto has stuck it out for three years, and he’s done it the traditional way.

He rode BMX bikes as a youth and began repairing them himself out of convenience. BMX bikes are fairly simple to learn on as they are single-speed, meaning there aren’t multiple gears and tricky derailleurs to deal with. They are also sturdier and smaller than their road and mountain counterparts.

“Everything I know about working on geared bikes, I learned from Jay Hager and John Panick,” Soto said of his mentors and fellow Snider’s mechanics. Panick has worked as a mechanic in the

By Charlie Durgin

Tour De France among other prestigious cycling events, and Hager is no slouch either. The two have over 50 combined years of mechanic experience.

In a world where most trades have been heavily impacted by computers and technology, the trade of bike mechanic remains pretty old school, as does its learning curve. You can’t just Google your way to a solution.

“You take time and you think about it,” Soto said about solving tricky bike issues, “or you reference one of the guys in the shop with more experience.”

Soto says that most of the repairs that come across the bench in a day are normal ones like flat tires or the regular tune-up.

Often, the real adventure begins when a well-meaning customer has taken the wrench into his own hands.

“When folks try to fix stuff themselves, they can make the original problem worse,” Soto said. “Like not putting grease where you are supposed to, or even worse, putting WD-40 where grease belongs, because WD-40 disperses grease and turns it to liquid.”

This isn’t good when the grease is supposed to keep heavy metal bearings from cooking in their races.

First-timers and newbies also have a rough time building bike wheels.

“When people try to build their own wheels for the first time, they’ll have the spokes crossing in the wrong place, for instance, over the valve stem,

Robert Soto Bike Mechanic

which makes the tube pretty difficult to pump,” Soto said.

Those still aren’t the toughest cases that Soto sees.

“Cheap components, a lot of plastic parts, and nothing works right when you get them,” Soto said of the off-brand bikes sold by non-specialty bike dealers.

“Bikes that have sat outside for a long time are also difficult to work on.”

Despite working on bikes all day for a living, Soto still loves traveling on two wheels. He rides his bike to work almost

every day, and he likes to spend some of his free time at the skate park riding his BMX bike.

The only downside to being a mechanic who can still shred at the skate park?

“People will hit me up at the skate park when I’m trying to ride, and I have to tell them ‘I’m not at work!’ ” So now they’ll know where to catch him when he is working, turning wrenches and practicing the core of being a bike mechanic: “patience and repetition.”

In a world where most trades have been heavily impacted by computers and technology, the trade of bike mechanic remains pretty old school, as does its learning curve.

You can’t just Google your way to a solution.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 25

26 Bakersfield Magazine

Jeffrey Enoch Flores, 39 Occupation: Chief of Staff for County Supervisor Are you a Bakersfield Native?

Although I grew up in the San Gabriel Valley, I consider myself a native and have lived in Bakersfield for 21 years.

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

Classic Italian Barber Proraso shave cream with an after splash of Agua de Pravia.

Do you think Bakersfield has a style? It has to be that quintessential “Ag” look: pressed chinos, plaid shirt, with or without boots, and a Columbia fleece vest. It’s a great no-nonsense look that says hardworking, trustworthy, comfortable, and confident.

Describe your personal style. I prefer a continental look. Also, anything that’s classic and timeless. Prep and understated is what works best for me.

Is there a celebrity or person that you get your style from? Not really, it’s just something that has evolved over time.

German National Soccer coach Joachim Loew is well dressed, if you ask me.

What are you wearing? Navy Façonnable suit with burgundy window pane; Brooks Brothers red and blue tattersall check dress shirt; Brooks Brothers pattern tie; black Calvin Klein dress belt; and black horse bit Ferragamo loafers.

Does your style change when you are not at work? I’m usually in a pair of 501 jeans and a T-shirt or polo.

How do you personalize your ‘business’ look? I always wear 100 percent cotton shirts, I just can’t do polyester—not even blends. I prefer a spread or cutaway collar with a thick tie that can make a fat knot.

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield? I’m so pressed for time, I usually shop online. There are some fine traditional stores in town though.

What is your favorite item of clothing? My navy JPress blazer is indispensable. In terms of function, I can wear it in work environments, in formal settings, or at casual settings with chinos or with a pair of jeans.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made? I was going to wear an American business suit with cuffs to a formal wedding in Madrid and they looked at me as if I was from Mars.

I quickly went out and bought a tapered suit (sans cuffs).

Are you a bargain hound? Yes, and you can’t beat a Kirkland dress shirt from Costco.

What mistakes do you think women make when they dress? I don’t know about women’s dress codes, but for both men and women, I think that Bakersfield needs to move beyond Hawaiian shirts.

FASHION TIP: Come on people— lose the Hawaiian shirts. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 27

28 Bakersfield Magazine

!

CITIZEN KERN

Name: Monty Byrom Age: 52 Birthplace: Texas Title: Musician; Song Writer;

Producer

Some of us are destined to blaze a musical path.

How he got started: The term “child prodigy” gets bandied about, but Byrom’s past certainly supports that descriptor; he learned to play multiple instruments (including the violin and the tuba) while still in grade school. He took that love of music with him when he joined the Navy and played in the branch’s band, stationed in San Fransisco. He spent two years in the studio with the Grateful Dead (“and learned how not to record an album”) but it wouldn’t be long before he was getting his own deal with Capitol Records.

His heroes: “My dad is the biggest influence on me—I went to bed listening to him sing every night,” Byrom explained. “As far as bands go, my favorite as a kid was ZZ Top. My favorite artist was Hendrix. But to this day, I listen to Otis Redding and Merle Haggard every day.”

meet

‘‘

The music industry is like the mob... you can never really get out.

His favorite part of the industry: “Definitely performing and connecting with the audience,” Byrom said. “The road is always rough, but back when I was touring all the time, the two hours I spent on stage made the other twenty-two worth it.” It’s much easier now that Byrom has a regular gig playing with the Buckaroos at the Crystal Palace and doesn’t have to sleep in a tour bus at night. He still hams it up on stage.

‘‘

Career highlights: In between fronting Billy Satellite, New Frontier, and Big House, Byrom jammed with a veritable who’s who list in the music industry, and as a writer/ producer has worked with the likes of Eddie Money, Barbara Streisand, David Lee Roth, and Don Felder and Timothy Schmidt of the Eagles. Still, he says an all-night impromptu rehearsal with former Temptations singer Ali-Ollie Woodson is a huge highlight.

Monty Byrom

photos by carl lender (jerry garcia), Alan Light (Barbra streisand), otis redding foundation (otis redding), monty byrom (buck owens), Craig O’neal (george strait)

Personal Stats:

What he’d still like to accomplish: Never mind having over 40 of his songs appear in movies, writing chart-topping hits for other artists, touring with George Strait, or being nominated for an Academy of Country Music award, Byrom plans to stay busy in the music industry for a long time.

“It’s like the mob—you can never really get out.” So, he’s making a new record with Big House and opening a studio in town.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 29

Kern County remembers

Volunteers occupied more territory in the west than the Union did in the east. They were stationed in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Kansas, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. Some, however, such as members of the California Cavalry, served with the Second Massachusetts Cavalry and fought in thirtyone battles, many of which were in the Shenandoah Valley.

One of the main functions of the California Volunteers was to protect gold shipments that were vital in keeping the Union Solvent. They were also tasked with protecting overland mail routes, putting down Indian uprisings, and keeping an eye on Southern Secessionists who were especially visible in the area. In order to carry out these missions, two camps were erected in the area to maintain order. The first, Camp Babbitt, was established June 24, 1862 about one mile from Visalia.

Named after Colonel E.B. Babbitt, its primary mission was to keep an eye on Southern Sympathizers who permeated the

area. Tulare County was almost entirely founded by Southerners, making the area a pro-Confederate hot bed. Also keep in mind that the area was below the 36-30 line established by the Missouri Compromise of 1820.

Camp Babbitt’s jurisdiction reached from Fort Tejon to Fresno County. On June 27, 1863, Lieutenant-Colonel William Jones, commander of the Second Cavalry of the California Volunteers, reported to Colonel R.C. Drum, the Assistant Adjutant General, Department of the Pacific that “unofficial information” came to his attention that there were “disloyal practices” going on in Millerton.

He suggests that Fort Miller be re-occupied with a company or detachment of cavalry. He believed that this presence would “have a moral influence upon their conduct toward the Government and its officers.” He also suggested that Fort Tejon be brought back to life and concluded his report by noting “the propriety of reoccupying Fort

Tejon with a company of cavalry” because “it is also located in the midst of a disloyal people; also near hostile Indians, they having recently robbed and murdered several persons in Kelso

John W. Davidson Cañon and in Kern River Valley, which is within supporting distance of Fort Tejon.” Incidentally, Fort Tejon was abandoned at the onset of the war after its commander John W. Davidson

©ISTOCKPHOT O.COM/ P

OSITIV ES

ext year marks 150 years since the beginning of the Civil War, a confrontation that pitted brother against brother, tore families apart, and shook this nation to its very core. The New York newspaper Banner of Liberty prophesied as early as April 1861 that “the Tragedy is about to Begin!”

And while fathers, brothers, and husbands were eager to enlist, by war’s end they were ready for it to be over. As Franklin Warner, a private from Michigan observed in 1865, the year “has come and we do not know what this year will bring forth; oh may it bring the close of this war for I am getting tired of it—for I am tired of living such a life it is a dogs [sic] life to every soldier.” No place was immune to the effects of the war as it reached everywhere including California.

Soon after the war broke out, 17,000 Californians enlisted on the side of the Union. Most of those who enlisted were stationed in the west. California

z Home of

The year “has come and we do not know what this year will bring forth; oh may it bring the close of this war for I am getting tired of it—for I am tired of living such a life it is a dogs [sic] life to every soldier.”

—Pvt. Franklin Warner, 1865

30 Bakersfield Magazine

the Civil War with pride

the brave z

Henry F. Condict 1863. The “problem” erupted in late 1861 when Indians attacked some area ranchers and made off with some of their cattle.

Colonel George Spafford Evans, who established Camp Babbitt

and Camp Independence, was able to temporarily pacify the local Indians. Once the soldiers were out of sight, however, they went back on the warpath. Soon after, John Lee and Jose Grijalva had their freight wagon attacked leaving the two teamsters dead.

This was the beginning of a series of Indian attacks in the Owens Valley.

In order to quell the violence, the army dispatched Captain Moses A. McLaughlin of the Second Cavalry California Volunteers to the area.

He set out from Camp Babbitt on April 10, 1863 with forty-four men, four six-mule teams, and one twelve pound howitzer. The detachment traveled some 275 miles and arrived in the Owens Valley on April 24. He began his investigation with the residents of Keyesville. He was told by many that there were a “large body of Indians encamped upon the North Fork of the Kern River.” They indicated that many of them had been engaging in acts of violence all over

The Kern Guards standing in traditional ”V” formation.

the Kern River Valley including murder and cattle rustling.

It was reported that “Roberts and Waldron had lost 150 head of stock.” Finally, the residents conveyed that they believed many of the Indians in question “were strangers in the valley” and were thought to be Tehachapi and Owens River Indians.

McLaughlin sought out Jose Chico, known to be an Owens River Indian Chief who was living on the Kern River as a farmer. After a lengthy interrogation, McLaughlin found that the “hostiles” were a renegade band of “Tehachapie” Indians, some of which were Owens River Indians, “who had endeavored to go to the war with them,” and that they were sleeping at the camp during the night and hiding out during the day.

McLaughlin advised Chico to remain with him for the evening and that they, along with some of the witnesses, would visit the camp in the early morning the next day. On April 19, 1863 at 2 a.m., McLaughlin and his detachment of soldiers, along with Jose Chico and the wit-

nesses, headed for the Indian hideout which was ten miles from Keyesville. At dawn, the soldiers surrounded the camp.

His feelings about this incident and his attitudes about Indians were indicative of the times. He notes “this extreme punishment, though I regret it, was necessary, and I feel certain that a few such examples will soon crush the Indians and finish the war in this and adjacent valleys.” He then goes on to challenge the trustworthiness of Indians and adds, “It is now a well-established fact that no treaty can be entered into with these Indians. They care nothing for pledge given, and have imagined that they could live better by war than peace.”

While McLaughlin and other California Volunteers were protecting the West, others, such as future Bakersfield residents Charles A. Gessie and Henry F. Condict were busy fighting “Johnny Reb” in the East.

Gessie was the quintessential American Patriot. He enlisted as a seaman in the Union Navy and served on the U.S.S Clara Dolsen and the U.S.S. Cricket. >>

PHOTOS COURTESY KERN COUNTY LIBRARY

left to fight in the east. Fort Tejon was reoccupied as advised in 1863 by California Volunteers.

Jones was referring to the “Indian problem” that came to a head in Kelso Canyon in April

by Chris Livingston

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 31

PHOTO COURTESY KERN COUNTY LIBRARY

Home of the Brave

Fort Tejon ruins circa 1880 [view from Rancho de Castec].

The battles on the rivers of America must have been exciting but perhaps not enough for Gessie. On October 7, 1864 at the age of twenty-eight, he enlisted as a private into Company I, 13th Regiment, of the Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. The very next day he was engaged in battle and would see nine more battles that culminated with the Battle of Appomattox Court House and General Lee’s surrender. Gessie died May 3, 1897 in Bakersfield and is buried at Union Cemetery.

Henry Ford Condict also was involved in the action. Born in New Jersey July 5, 1837, his family moved to the Illinois frontier when he was five years old. At the age of seventeen, he secured an appointment to the United States Naval Academy where he was the classmate of the famed Admiral Dewey. For medical reasons he was unable to complete his training forcing him to return to Illinois.

In 1859, ventured to Northern California. With the start of the war, he returned to join the fight in the east.

Condict mustered into service on September 25, 1861, joining the First New Hampshire Battery and quickly saw action. He fought at the Second Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Chancellorsville, and Fredericksburg. At Fredericksburg his unit was almost completely destroyed. This experience forced him to resign from the war. Not satisfied with his decision, he decided to re-join in the fight soon

Soldiers came from different backgrounds and fought on a variety of battlefields. Their common interest was the need to preserve the Union and perhaps their sense of adventure.

32 Bakersfield Magazine

after he returned to Illinois. The men of Company H, Eighth Illinois Cavalry were eager to accept the new and experienced recruit and on June 3, 1863 Condict became one of the unit’s newest members. At the Battle of Gettysburg it was his regiment that fired the first shot. He ended his service to the Union on June 2, 1865 and returned to Illinois.

Condict decided to move back to California and by 1873 was in Bakersfield. He was quite the entrepreneur and served as the proprietor of the Stage Hotel and eventually established the C.O.D. Soda Works where he took up the business of quenching the thirst of area residents. He also dabbled in the oil industry and served as an agent for Standard Oil and had affiliations with the Paraffin Oil Company, Coalinga Peerless, and United States Oil Company.

They came from different backgrounds and fought on a variety of battlefields. Their common interest was the need to preserve the Union and perhaps their sense of adventure. Whatever the reason, after the interruption of war was over they returned to their lives and many of them migrated and settled in areas of opportunity such as Bakersfield. v

30+ More of the Funkiest People, Grooviest Places, & Hippest Things in All of Bakersfield

2.0 COOL In the beginning, there was a word...and that word was: “Cool.”

From there, culture took over and the word splintered. Things were “funky,” “hip,” “rad,” “groovy,” “fly,” and, our personal favorite, “bodacious.” But slang aside, each of these words has something in common— they’re all ways to describe something which, by its very nature, defies description. Cool is a magical word that can transcend boundaries in the hippest of ways. Think about it. You use it to describe bands, books, places, people, and everything under the blood red sun (which is also cool). Even your mom uses the word.

photo provided by derek mears

Which, in our book, makes your mom cool. Here are some other things we think are pretty bodacious...

rollin’

Haggard Longboards: Wonder Wheels

How often do you hear about a group of guys in their early 20s starting a successful company?

It’s enough to make you take notice, even if you have no idea how to ride a longboard. Daniel Scheidle, Richard Scheidle, Sean Corson, Patrick McMahon, and Jared Bradford have taken their love of boarding to the next level by first creating a company and naming it after one of our city’s most-famous exports; then by selling boards (via the Internet) and by letting customers customize said boards with unique designs. Since 2007, these guys have been propagating the longboard way of life in Bakersfield by dedicating all their free-time to shaping and customizing boards for their growing customer base. It’s grown slowly, but Haggard Longboards keeps on rolling.

sweet

Once you get 87-year-old Paul de Fonville talking about the cowboy way of life, you’ll be hardpressed to get him to stop. He’s the kind of guy that sleeps in a cowboy hat, brushes his teeth in cowboy boots, and lassos his coffee cup in the morning. He’s also the kind of guy who, in 1962, opened the Cowboy Memorial and Library in Walker Basin.

If you’re asking yourself why he’d do that, you might want to rethink night school. The truth is, de Fonville’s mission is to preserve the heritage of the American Cowboy and pay tribute to the many men who helped build the West into what it is...er...was before the television was invented. We’re 100 percent positive de Fonville has never seen The Jersey Shore.

photo provided by cowboy memorial & library

Cowboy Museum: Western Americana Lives On

icon

Tommy Hays: Still Strummi ng

It’s not that being an ins urance agent is boring, per se, it’s just that it doesn’ t remotely compare with the feeling of being on stage and playing to an audien ce that has been conceivab ly listening to your music for nearly 50 years. It’s the feeling one of the Baker sfield Sound creators Tommy Hays has whenever he whips out a guitar. He was at the forefront of a musical sty le that we (and the world) know and love, even if som e of you won’t admit it. It’s a sound that was create d in opposition to the ove rly-polished records com in’ out of Nashville at the time, and Mr. Hays was one of those guys behind the music (that was a sub tle hint for VH1). Let’s face it...the guy is inherently cool.

How many grandpas do you see hopping up on sta ge every chance they get, releasing an album while in their mid-70s, and getting inducted into the Western Swing Society Hall of Fame?

The answer is a big zer o. Unless you’re Tommy Hays’ grandk id.

strum

Thorn Clothing: Way Cool Threads

When you put stylish threads and charity together, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. It worked for The Gap, right? That was Jake Sherley’s thinking when in 1999, he began putting his own ultra-hip designs on garments and giving the proceeds to nonprofit organizations around the world. Could the guy be any nicer? Jake and his wife, Johanna, continue to help others by donating the profits from sales of clothing to the Bakersfield Homeless Center and the Rescue Mission, among many others. They’ve gone global, too. With the support of a few cast members on ABC’s The Bachelor and The Bachelorette, the nation has seen and worn some of Sherley’s designs.

That extra attention has helped Thorn Clothing reach more people in need—like those in Zambia who need clean drinking water. And those who need serious fashion advice.

history Trouts: Honky-tonk Happening

It’s easy to see why Paul Anderson made the cut; as mentioned in prior articles, we’re suckers for facial hair. But the man known to generations in Bakersfield as “Andy Noise” has more going for him than an off-season Santa beard. He ran Andy Noise Records from 1987 to 2000, the year his landlord tripled his rent and sent all those hipster kids who spent their afternoons searching for out-ofprint Smiths singles and used punk albums running to their basements. Today, Mr. Noise spends his time coordinating another underground culture. For the past four years, he’s been in charge of local running clubs (long distance and cross country), and even posts local high schools track stats online to help grow the small group of dedicated runners in town to a pretty impressive number.

smooth

party

There’s a reward being offered at Trout’s. Rockwell, the interim president and janitor (seriously) says that if you can stand on stage and name another venue on this side of the Mississippi that offers more live shows for free, he’ll give you cold, hard cash. Just warning you, you’ll have to find a place that underwrites more than 131—that’s the number boasted by this bar and venue, one of the only surviving (and thriving) honky-tonks from the days of yore. (Fun fact: The days of yore are generally considered to be the 1940s.) Still, the place is as hopping today as it was when the stars of the Bakersfield Sound would grace Trout’s stages.

But, there are other reasons this place is infamous, so we recommend getting your dad’s permission before you try and get inside.

photo provided by the after

photos courtesy rockwell

Andy Noise: Going Underground

COOL 2.0

hairspray

in Hair The AfterParty: Harmony good. The After-

so Never has spandex looked 7, is made of four 200 in d me for Party, which o take their AquaNet twenty-something men wh m (lead singer), Rikki gnu seriously. Yes, Zakk Ma Faith (lead bass), and Styles (lead guitar), Nikki ms) may dress and act Troy Thunderz (lead dru the Poison tour bus, like they just stepped off seriously, too. They but they take their music weekends traveling up spend their nights and coast covering ‘80s and down the California riots (the good kind) g sin cau “hair-metal” tunes, hday parties, and even at corporate events, birt years, they’ve accrued weddings. In only three they play. The black ver a cult following where the block to hear Trans-ams line up around es, and Def Leppard.

Mötley Crüe, Guns N’ Ros y 80 percent of what ghl We discovered that rou l AfterParty show can’t happens during a typica t the way this group of be printed...but that’s jus rockers would want it.

metal The Shire of Wintermist: Heavy Metal Havoc

Eating a roasted boar leg is not for the faint-hearted. Nor is battling a heavilyarmored knight. That’s mainly why you don’t see us trying to join this clever and highly-creative group, known globally as the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) and locally as The Shire of Wintermist (which is the Southern Kern County chapter). The SCA is a nonprofit organization with events year-round intended to both romanticize the time period before the 1600s and bring it back to life. Members make their own armor, know how to weave and spin, and even understand Medieval games...and all while we stand by and gawk. Because, let’s face it, while we’d more than likely be able to play a lute if instructed, there’s little chance we could archer our way out of a paper bag. But that shouldn’t stop you from joining! www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 35

It would probably shock you to find out that the actor behind the role of Jason in the recent version of Friday the 13th played Dungeons and Dragons growing up. The actor known for terrorizing teenage campers is a selfproclaimed giant nerd (we verified!). In what can only be described as sweet, sweet irony, Mears grew up to portray the same character that gave him nightmares as a child. And his star has continually been on the rise over the past decade (staring in big budget action flicks with even bigger Hollywood names).

Yet the 38-year-old still performs with improv groups in L.A., which he developed a taste for here in town as a high schooler. Talk about down-to-earth. So while he’s currently filming the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean flick, he’s probably the only man from Bakersfield who, when asked the question, “What did you do today?” will answer, “You know, just murdered a couple of teens.”

photos provided

by derek mears

Derek Mears: Mayhem Abounds

photo credit: chad michael

ward

run!

chords Banshee in the Kitchen: Different Strokes

With five albums under their belt, it seems as though there’s no stopping this intelligent trio of women, hell-bent on bringing Celtic music to the masses. Touring and recording since the early 2000s, Banshee in the Kitchen has performed in local and national festivals, theaters, and the occasional living room. But traditional “world” music this is not—Jill Egland, Brenda Hunter, and Katharine Edmonson inject their version of wit and whimsy into the songs they perform. Within the first few chords, one instantly gets the impression they’re hearing something familiar—tunes that have been a part of the musical subconscious for hundreds of years. And thanks to fans around the state, and local support, we’ll be hearing Banshee in the Kitchen perform them for another hundred.

Okay, probably not a hundred.

Dream Ride Ironworks: Creating Yourhe was doing at age 25 when he decided to open a

smart Mattsbooks.org: Good Ideas

How can selling books be cool, you ask? For one thing, when its reason for being is to help parents and students gather textbooks for high school. For another, when the site was started by someone who, at the time, was barely able to vote. In 2006, Matt Molina was a senior at Garces High and his folks told him that if he sold his textbooks, he could keep the money he made. So he did. Friends later hit him up to sell their textbooks. A growing business was born.

Molina decided that he’d help sell the textbooks of one family to another Garces family and split the proceeds 60-40, with Molina taking the smaller cut. Everybody wins. Especially Molina, who runs the business over the summer between May and August and nets more money than some of us do in a year. Damn, the only thing we did before we got out of high school was perfect our parents’ signatures.

36 Bakersfield Magazine

what tomize Roger Lee had no idea r to pay him money to cus off, and having friends offe laid of all ting cca get me er the Aft ss. into ine bus since turned a one-man shop which has even not It’s . aru Sub r you e their vehicles, he started tak This isn’t the place to s. hop rks wo orks car nw Iro tom ard cus Bakersfield take a step tow The only reason you should W. BM r you e tak to ce the pla -stylized, g to drive around in a highly is if you’re seriously wantin and his He t. tha you tell l . Lee wil completely-customized ride “good r eve builders, and nothing is employees are ground-up cars the of e som y fect. Which is wh us enough.” It’s got to be per ero num y wh d An . ble fine art ir they’ve turned out resem the e tur magazines continue to fea national hot rod and truck cks tru se the of ers. We’re sure some sleek builds on their cov but we pin-ups in the magazines, ssy glo as are also featured s. article were too busy reading the

bitchin’

photo courtesy ironworks

Famoso: Built for Speed

flicks The Fox Theater: It’s Showtime

photo courtesy soulajar

Here’s a question: What 1,500-seat theater opened on Christmas Day in 1930 and also hosts Bakersfield’s answer to the Hollywood Walk of Fame? You’ll need to be quick like a fox to get this one. Oh, shoot—we gave it away. For those of you who didn’t pick up on our ridiculous attempt at humor, we think the Fox Theater is pretty rad. Not only does it host a variety of national acts including comedians and bands, but it caters to local plays and artists. After the initial Save the Fox campaign in the early ‘90s, the theater has steadily gotten better and better—quickly reestablishing itself as a integral cog of downtown life. There are no bad seats in this place, which doubles as a community hot spot for friends and families looking to take a nostalgic trip to the early days of Bakersfield. And, it should be said, any place that can say the original line up of Asia played on its stage has our vote.

Wasn’t it the Eagles who sang “Life in the Fast Lane”? Well, before the Eagles, there were the Smokers. The Bakersfield Smokers to be exact. They were the epitome of life in the fast lane. And this rough-and-tumble group of racers was looking for a place to let their tires do the talkin’. While we really don’t condone speeding, knowing this group of car-lovin’, fast-drivin’, rubber-burnin’ dudes founded the track because they were tired of getting busted on the streets of Bakersfield pretty much puts Famoso on a pedestal in our eyes. That, and the place is home to the March Meet and the Hot Rod Reunion every year (two events that deserve their own Cool list). It’s hollowed ground to a large population of people—not only locals, but drag racers from around the world who

photo provided by auto club famoso raceway

burn have literally stopped off at Famoso to get their picture taken on the track like they were at Disneyland. Thankfully, there have never been any Donald Duck sightings on the track.

boogie

COOL 2.0 new

Soulajar: Rising Stars

In true rock band fashion, their name came from a member’s girlfriend. Comprised of guitarist Ryan Fergon; drummer Brian Boozer; bassist Greg Bettis; and singer Jim Ranger, Soulajar emerged from a meeting of remarkable minds at Bakersfield College in 2002. With a sound that can only be described as funk/grove/soul/rock (yes, we mean all four), Soulajar spent the first few years as a band writing tunes and playing at each others’ houses before taking the stage at a local bar for their first gig. As winners of Starbucks’ So Cal Music Contest, Soulajar was given the chance to perform at the House of Blues in Hollywood to a sold-out crowd. Since then, they’ve been putting energy into playing at various festivals around town and painstakingly working on their first album, which will no doubt fly off the shelves in late ‘10 or early ‘11.

Nat Dove: Texas Bo og

ie King You won’t find this man singing the blu es. Oh, wait, you wi you’d think. As an ll. But not for the re internationally-reno ason wned blues and jaz author, Dove’s life z musician, educat is full of high note or, and s.

Th Seems contradicto ey all just happen to be rooted in blu ry, but we assure you, it’s not. es.

The “Texas Boogie King” has taught mu sic education at CS of places around the UB and a heck-of-a world, including Ja -lot pan, Sweden, and frequently at major France. He also lec universities, using tures his energy to bring mainstream. Dove the blues back int is the founder an o the d CEO of the Bake Society, works with rsfield Blues Pres the Arts Council of ervation Kern, and was ind Blues Hall of Fame ucted into the Wes . What have you do t Coast ne lately? He plans children, teaching to continue working them the art of mu sical expression so with again. We’re think none of them ever ing of hiring him ar feels blue ound press time.

PIANO COURTESY OF CALI FORNIA KEYBOARDS

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 37

photos courtesy sherri cruis

e

Sherri Cruse: Wild Rides

fun Decision Games: Play On

There is no other person, group, or company on this list that can boast what Decision Games can. They hold the record for the largest military history game ever published (that’s on top of all the other detailed war games they’ve produced). Now, you’re probably thinking it’s just a Hulk-sized version of Risk, but you’re wrong. War in the Pacific, the game that puts all other games to shame (and thereby makes David Banner angry), has a ping-pong table sized map of the Pacific, 200 small island maps, 9,000 playing pieces, and over 200 pages of highly-detailed rules. That’s right, Christopher and Callie Cum-

iiieeeee mins, who started Decision Games in 1988, cater to people who’s hobby it is to read hundreds of pages of rules...for fun. And, quite frankly, they make our hour-long “epic” office Battleship tournaments look like games of Candyland.

At the tender age of 9, a time when most of us are just trying har d to remember the names of the 50 sta tes and their respective capitals, Sherri Cruse revved her way into the MotoCros s world. What started as a blatant des ire to be better at riding than her older brother, turned into a legitimate career move. Cruse started out as an endura nce racer in the off-road world, and soon captured a World Off Road Champ ionship Series (WORCS) title. Do you kno w anyone else who’s been an X Game s Silver Medalist and or who was nom inated as 2009’s Transworld Motocross’s Female Racer of the Year? We didn’t think so. At 5’ 1’’, she also holds the title for the biggest ratio discrepancy as the sho rtest to coolest person on our list.

ing Don Martin: It’s an Art The (and was from Sinatra was still aliv

By now, you know we at the magazine love a good pun. This one tops them all! A group of local photographers who’ve banded together to take pictures to a new level (and to literally take pictures).

Formed when Jennifer Williams and Patrick Ang decided that they should stop bumping

into each other at professional sessions and instead form a group of photo-loving folks who were into collaboration. The Shutter Clique meets once a month, but don’t expect to just walk to their clubhouse—they require a bit more dedication. Before they can find out the location of that month’s meeting, the roughly 20 regular members have to submit a photo that relates to that month’s topic.

This is all in the spirit of working together to help improve the quality of each photographer’s work, which is the antithesis to any clique we knew of in high school. photo credit: patrick ang

smile

00 and 3,000 people timated that between 2,5 the nightlife. Now, ng oyi enj a, frequent the are that song? who could we tap to sing

38 Bakersfield Magazine

After spending hours searching for a “backward letter R” on our typewriters, we were forced to concede that not only is local- and internationally-loved Korn a pretty fly band (kids still say fly...look it up if you don’t believe us), but they are also a copy editor’s worse nightmare. Yet when the band mysteriously took to the outskirts of Bakers-

loud field to perform a concert in the middle of a Korn-themed crop circle that had been sporadically and virally unveiled this summer, everyone took notice. Probably because of the whole “fear of aliens” thing. But also because Korn consistently boasts about their Bakersfield roots. That’s why we’ll always love this bunch of rabble-rousers (kids probably don’t say that as often), even if one of their songs did inspire our mothers to constantly refer to us as “a freak on a leash.”

records

The Shutter Clique: Say Cheese

mr. downtown

Korn: In The Crops

photo provided by roadrunner

If Frank at one point he’d sing Bakersfield), we’re sure . Oh, Mr. Downtown. a song about Don Martin more for improving the At 44, he’s already done than people twice his wn nto quality of life in dow narians are hanging age. Not that a lot of octoge the idea. After openout downtown, but you get Martin went to work 5, 200 ing Metro Galleries in ess Association, helpwith the Downtown Busin d arts district and reing to establish a designate n” from most Batow move the stigma of “down is also credited with kersfieldians’ minds. Martin if you don’t know what starting First Fridays, and Businesses stay open that is...shame on you. ry month and it’s eseve of ay later on the first Frid

Bakersfield Jam: Got Game?

If necessity is the mother of invention, then it’s also the mother of reinvention. Didn’t Frank Zappa say that? But so it goes for the owners of the Bakersfield Jam when they reevaluated their business model last year and transformed minor league basketball into an elite event. The decision to move games to their recently-built practice facility was ultimately the best thing they could have done.

Now, with a cigar bar, a glass elevator, luxury boxes (complete with TVs and couches), and an intimate ambiance, they’ve gone from having to give tickets away to having to turn people away. Season tickets or sponsorship are the only way to experience the games now, which has allowed this franchise to be in the black for the first time in a long time. Will a “pretty-please” get us in the door?

stylin’ tato Guy Brian Kirschenmann: Po

w Bakersfield has an Holy potatoes! We all kno ebrities—folks who’ve inner circle of local cel reason or another, but one gained popularity for o’ve become local cewe prefer the people wh y love. Kirschenmann lebrities for doing what the ato farmer and was pot is a local 5th generation 2009 by FritoLay and approached in January al growers’ campaign. asked to be part of a loc long been a FritoLay Kirschenmann’s farm has people descended on supplier so a crew of 100 filming what would be the farm and spent a week or a potato chip. But a 30-second commercial...f dium for the potato? is there a more perfect me r eaten Thanksgiving Think about it, have you eve potatoes? If you have, dinner without mashed magazine, and stare this n stop reading, put dow

Legendary Hat Guy: Big Al

beauty Bright House Amphitheatre: Nice View

At one time or another, every person in Bakersfield will step foot on the grounds of the Bright House Amphitheatre and the Park at Riverwalk.* Your grandma, your dad, you...everyone’s stopped by to see a concert, a performance, a movie, or just to do cartwheels and round-offs on the grass. Your grandma’s still in great shape, by the way. With all the mainstream concerts coming through, there’s always someone to go watch. And with the advent of the Barber Honda Local Music Showcase, you can bring a picnic lunch, a few friends (up to 4,000—that’s how many the amphitheatre can seat), and listen to local bands play music while you look up at the stars. It sounds fruity, but it’s cool, okay? Not to mention, later this month, FattKatt and the VonZippers are gracing the stage. And, ahem, you might remember us saying they were cool last year. *A statistic we made up for this story. photos credit: amy tierney &

It’s a term of endearment that many people use to describe Al Gonzales. For 48 years, he’s shaped the hats of some of country music’s most-loved stars (like Buck Owens and Dwight Yoakam), as well as rodeo queens and beauty pageant winners. It’s not rocket science... it’s just hats. But we’d like to see you try.

For cryin’ out loud, the man has a hat and a dish named after him. According to legend (and Gonzales), longtime friend and fellow hat maker John Milano was looking to name a recent hat he’d made.

Gonzales told him to name it after the best-looking guy he knew. That day, the “Big Al” was christened. And because he’s been eating at Bill Lee’s for 20-plus years, the legendary Chinese restaurant named a plate of food after him. Maybe we’ll jump on the bandwagon and just call this the “Big Al” issue.

f8f11 images

mad hatter chips

ror. long and hard in the mir you n the t, en’ hav you But if encan appreciate Kirsch do . we e lik ma nn ’s wo rk

Bakersfield Pink Ladies: Be-Bop-A-Lula

Dressing up like rockabilly fillies from the ‘50s is one thing. Donating money and goods to local charities is another. Put those together and you have a group of charitable women who won’t leave the house without pink jackets. You also have a helluva lot of pompadoured bangs. Paulette Engle and Joanne McCain were casually spending one night a week with each other, out of the house and away from their families, socializing. They turned that into a 28-member strong group of women who routinely host fund-raisers and BBQs for worthy causes in our area—and for people who like grilled meat. In just over two years, they’ve donated thousands to the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, the Alliance Against Family Violence, and CASA. Pretty good for a group of gals who probably use more hairspray than the entire cast of Dynasty. photo provided by pink ladies

pink

COOL 2.0 www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 39

photo provided by todd norton

E.P.I.C.: Got Ghosts?

ing the best name ever. organization kudos for hav First, we have to give this not be tolerated. E.P.I.C. l wil t Ghostbusters jokes tha you rn by wa to e hav Then, we ifornia and was founded rmal Investigations of Cal ano ir Par l the ica do s Eth —a for sly nds iou sta y do ser . And they take what the te. sta the oss acr s Todd Norton two years ago ner ow e business owners to hom the clients, who range from anormal phenomena into par or gs ntin hau r you g nin t tur in Tha s. lize era cia cam spe y The orders, and ng K2 meters, sound rec com rgy ene etic easily-explainable by usi agn om ld be excess electr cou bed r you of rs t hou foo the “ghost” at igating, hours and They’ll spend hours invest ing from your alarm clock. es and explanations for not d aile det h present you wit es that they can’t going through data, and course, there are also cas Of ng. nci erie exp n bee what you’ve ’ll stop here. give you nightmares, we explain. But rather than

boo

Pat Gerber: It’s a Hot Wheels®Thing

This man is the envy of nearly all the men in our office. Why? you ask. Well, not only does Pat Gerber have his very own monster truck (wipe the drool off your chins now), he’s got a specially-made Hot Wheels® version of his monster truck, which, while limited, has already hit store shelves. Gerber owns Shocker Motorsports, a local custom truck shop with a focus on lift kits and all that jazz, but the reason his face is gracing the pages of our Cool Issue, is because he’s fulfilled every man’s dream...well, every man who ever spent hours pushing miniature cars around a plastic racetrack. First, he played with Hot Wheels®. Second, he joined forces with his father to work in a auto shop. Third, he started building monster trucks. Fourth, Mattel has now modeled two trucks after his designs. And fifth, his daughters now play with his Hot Wheels® truck. We seriously don’t know how this could get any better. Unless, of course, Mattel decided to create cus-

party! zoom

tom-paint designs for Gerber (and only Gerber) to use on his trucks.

Wait, that actually happened.

The Gate: Local Music Platform

all ages

Just over 13 years ago, Rob Allison opened a gate to the local music scene. It’s called The Gate (although we’re not sure why). It began when Allison, then a part of local band Traxter, discovered a lack of locations for local garage bands to play. So he decided to make one.

In the past, local audiences have seen MXPX, The Plain White T’s, and Marcy Playground thanks to Allison, and to a lesser extent, thanks to the bands themselves. You won’t be turned away for not playing the right kind of music at this all ages venue...and you’ll even get a cut of the door. For Allison, creativity demands an audience, and he’ll give anyone a time slot as long as they’re serious. Even that kid who thinks everyone wants to hear him “play” punked-up versions of Van Morrison tunes for 30 minutes.

Well, that’s all folks...for now. But because we found so many Cool things this time, you’ll find more listed on our website, so be sure to check them out. It’s an impressive list, but we know we’re just scratching the surface on what’s cool in our city.

So if you know of a person, place, or a thing (a noun, basically) that should be included in our next Cool Issue, let us know by emailing us at cool@bakersfieldmagazine.net. You might just see your suggestion in print when we unleash...

The Cool Issue 3: This Time It’s Personal. v

40 Bakersfield Magazine

Fishlips: Island of Misfit Toys

COOL 2.0

It’s okay with the owners of Fishlips if you want to refer to them as the Island a point of pride for Shawn of Misfit Toys. It’s a Haddad-Byers and Andre w Wilkins that each night, establishment hosts a diff this downtown erent crowd. It’s a one-sto p shop for good tunes, goo friends. You’ll hear rock, d food, and good blues, comedy shows, and more...all while eating juic cably named after famous y burgers (impecrockers) and admiring the low-key manner with wh is run. Plus, it doesn’t hur ich the place t that they’re big on giv ing back. They’ll open the charities who need a pla ir doors for local ce to host a fund-raiser.

They’ve even found thems proposal hot-spot, having elves becoming a had four marriage propos als take place in the pas the atmosphere at Fishlip t year alone. Given s, we can see why.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 41

42 Bakersfield Magazine

in 2002, four agencies

the big plan:

Growing a City

came together to examine metro Bakersfield and what improvements needed to be made in traffic flow and road work to facilitate city growth for the

next 20 to 30 years. t’s been estimated that the metro bill Thomas stepped population of Bakersfield will exceed 550,000 people in 2017. That’s forward as well 50,000 more people than we have and led efforts to right now arriving in our city within secure $630 million seven years. It’s like having the entire for road projects. city of Davis, California move to town. And that’s a good thing.

More people means more commerce—new businesses, new homes being built, new ideas. Sure, to some extent, it will mean more cars on the road, but because of the forward-thinking of city planners and the support of former Congressman Bill Thomas, it doesn’t have to mean more gridlock.

I

You’ve undoubtedly seen a lot of orange cones around certain parts of town. And you’ll soon be seeing more. Before you start sighing, worrying about your morning and afternoon commutes, know that these construction projects are all a part of something thrive as one of California’s major cities.

TRIP HISTORY Back in 2002, a study was published that had been orchestrated by the City of Bakersfield, the County of Kern, Caltrans, and Kern Council of Governments called the Bakersfield Systems Study. Essentially, these four agencies came together to examine the metro area of Bakersfield and what types of improvements needed to be made in terms of traffic flow and road work to facilitate the growth the city was forecasting for the next 20 to

PHOTO COURTESY THOMAS ROADS IMPROVEMENT program/GILBERT VEGA

bigger—something better—that will help Bakersfield grow and

30 years. They looked at traffic modeling, traffic patterns, previous road work, and a host of other details that would help them determine where improvements could be made or where road widening could help with current congestion. >>

[

CORPORATE

RELOCATION

] www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 43

the big plan:

Growing a City

“When Bill Thomas called and said he

2006,” he added. Parsons is the engineer-

continued Ted Wright, “we have to com-

was earmarking some money for trans-

ing firm hired to help deliver the TRIP

plete numerous reports.” From there, a

portation, we were thinking it would be

projects and had previously worked in

host of environmental impact studies and

great to get thirty or forty million,” said

Bakersfield. In 2004, Parsons designed

documents are generated.

Raul Rojas, Public Works Director. “But

the Wastewater Treatment Plant 3 facility

Each TRIP project goes through a rigor-

Thomas said he was thinking bigger.”

which was recently completed in south

ous transportation planning and environ-

Bakersfield.

mental process.

Thomas led the effort to secure $630 million for Bakersfield-area road projects

“It’s been a great experience to partner

“Plans are developed during the con-

in the 2005 Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Ef-

with the City of Bakersfield,” said Christo-

ceptual engineering phase, which can

Construction at the west end of the 7th Standard Road project.

Workers use concrete to secure the infrastructure of overpasses.

rently managed by TRIP were first identi-

pher Clark, Program Manager for Parsons.

take two years or more,” Wright explained.

fied in the Bakersfield Systems Study in-

“Our goal is to deliver these completed

“During this time, project alternatives are

cluding the Westside Parkway, 24th Street

projects as soon as possible.

developed, along with ‘footprints’ that

ficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA: LU).

And soon, the Thomas Roads Improvement Program, or TRIP, was formed, named after Congressman Thomas.

TRIP is, just like the 2002 study, a cooperative effort between the County of Kern, Caltrans, the Kern Council of Governments, and managed by the City of Bakersfield.

And just to put this in perspective, the last time a major federally-funded transportation project was built in Bakersfield it was the late 1970s.

As Ted Wright, TRIP Program Manager, pointed out, a number of the projects cur-

widening, and the Hageman Flyover. TRIP

Clark and other Parsons employees have

are analyzed for potential environmental

projects will facilitate regional mobility,

relocated to Bakersfield, and the company

impacts. Projects are evaluated pursuant

economic growth, and development, as

has become a participating member of

to California Environmental Quality Act

well as reduce travel time through major

the community, helping to fund Aera Park

(CEQA) and National Environmental Poli-

transportation corridors. If you’ve ever

and donating design work for the Mill

cy Act (NEPA) requirements.”

been stuck on Rosedale Highway or Trux-

Creek Pavilion. Clark is also on the Mayor’s

tun Extension, you can fully appreciate

Keep Bakersfield Beautiful committee.

Once that footprint has been generated, there is a public scoping meeting, giving

Once Parsons was on board, additional

residents a chance to understand the pro-

However, TRIP didn’t happen overnight.

consultants were hired to plan and design

posed construction and to suggest other

what TRIP will do.

“The earmark came in August of 2005,”

the projects. Then the TRIP team had to

project alternatives. Afterward, technical

Wright explained. But before any projects

find a building to house together all the

studies are prepared, along with a Draft En-

could commence, there were a number

employees from four different agencies.

vironmental Document, which is released for future public review and comment.

of companies that needed to be hired to supplement City staff and help complete

THE PROCESS OF THE PROJECT

The environmental process provides an

the tasks at hand. Because of the magni-

By the time we see those orange cones

opportunity to inform decision makers

tude of the projects, a large engineering

pop up, countless hours and years of plan-

about potential effects, coordinate with

firm was needed to assist with program

ning have already gone into a construc-

relevant agencies, and inform the pub-

management.

tion project.

lic of alternatives and potential impacts,

“Parsons came on board in February of

44 Bakersfield Magazine

“After all the firms had been selected,”

and receive and respond to comments.

The types of environmental studies per-

n Noise: Studies the exposure of persons

the project may go to final design and

formed are all-encompassing and must

to the generation of noise levels in excess

right-of-way may be acquired, if needed.

be approved by government agencies

of established standards.

including U.S. Fish and Wildlife, California

n Traffic and Circulation: Analyzes traffic

WHAT’S GOING ON NOW?

Department of Fish and Game, Air Pollu-

volumes, accident data, and levels of ser-

Over the past year, TRIP projects have

tion Control, and the Bureau of Reclama-

vice for current year, year of completion,

moved forward through various stages of

tion. These studies include:

and 20 years from completion.

completion. The first project to start con-

n Biological Resources: Identifies poten-

n Indirect

Physical Changes: Identifies

struction was the State Route (SR) 178/

tial impacts to flora, fauna, and sensitive

any reasonably foreseeable indirect phys-

Fairfax Road Interchange, and the project

habitats within the project area.

ical changes to the environment.

is now fully open to traffic. The project

n Water

Quality/Hydrology: Describes

Naturally, these studies aren’t done

involved building an interchange at the

the existing water quality and drainage

overnight. They’re conducted over the

former at-grade SR-178 and Fairfax Road

and identifies how to avoid impacts.

course of years before any construction

intersection and rebuilding SR-178 as a

n Air Quality: Describes the air quality in

can occur.

freeway for about one mile within the proj-

the project area and potential air quality

“These studies and reports take a lot of

ect area. The project also widened Fairfax

impacts of the project.

manpower to generate,” Wright added.

Road through the state right-of-way and

n Cultural

“And it takes a lot of time. “

constructed a sound wall along residential

Resources: Determines the

presence of paleontological, archaeological, and/or historical resources.

The public is encouraged to participate

photo/illustration COURTESY THOMAS ROADS IMPROVEMENT program

in the transportation planning process.

properties on the northwest side.

During construction, nearly 600,000 cubic yards of earth had to be removed from the site to make way for the new interchange. About half of the dirt was transported to the old landfill site north of Fairfax Road to be used as a final cap.

The remainder was used as fill dirt at the SR-99/7th Standard Road Interchange project. In addition, 60,000 tons of old roadbed material was recycled into the project as base material for the new roadbed instead of being hauled off to area landfills.

The SR-99/7th Standard Road Interchange also completed construction and opened to traffic this past year, just as

A rendering of what the completed Truxtun Tie-in for Westside Parkway will look like from above. n Socio-Economic

construction got underway on the 7th Standard Road widening and 7th Stan-

Impacts: Identifies

Public scoping meetings are held when

dard Road/BNSF Railway grade separa-

impacts, such as community cohesion,

major projects are initiated to gain public

tion projects.

environmental justice, and availability of

input, and the public is offered ample op-

7th Standard Road is a heavily used

public facilities and services.

portunity to review and comment on the

transportation corridor for goods move-

n Hazardous

Waste: Describes hazard-

Draft Environmental Documents. All com-

ment, and provides a direct connection

ous waste sites within the project area.

ments are addressed prior to finalizing

between I-5 and SR-99.The County’s multi-

n Visual

the document.

phased project includes improvements

Impacts/Aesthetics:

Deter-

mines if the proposed project degrades

The Final Environmental Document

to the interchange at SR-99/7th Standard

the existing visual character, including

(FED) identifies the preferred alignment

Road, two railroad grade separations, and

light pollution.

and project requirements. At this point,

the widening of 7th Standard Road >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 45

the big plan:

State Bank of India (CA)

3400 Panama Lane, Suite R Bakersfield, Ca 93313

Growing a City

between Santa Fe Way and Meadows Field.

additional crossing over the Kern River.

An earlier phase of construction was com-

Currently there is no river crossing be-

pleted in spring 2008, and involved widen-

tween SR-99 and Coffee Road, a distance

ing Merle Haggard Drive between the SR-

of approximately three miles.

99 interchange and the William M. Thomas

The Mohawk Street Extension has been under construction for the past year, but has

terminal at Meadows Field Airport.

The SR-99/7th Standard Road Inter-

been relatively out of public view due to its

change project included a realignment

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A view of Stockdale Towers from the construction site.

remote location. That has changed in recent months as work ramped up on the Kern River Bridge and the Truxtun Avenue/Mohawk Street intersection expansion. In addition to the river crossing, the Mohawk project includes a bridge over the future Westside Concrete pilings which will support the Mohawk Street bridge.

Work on the new east-west freeway is

tion will widen the roadway between

also well underway, and is most obvious to

Zachary Avenue and Coffee Road, from

travelers along Coffee Road and Calloway

two to four lanes, build six new bridges

Drive. This new freeway will be a great as-

over three canals, and construct a grade

set to commuters from Western Bakers-

separation over the BNSF railway. This

field, who currently have few viable routes

construction is expected to be complet-

to and from the central business district.

ed in mid to late 2011.

Perhaps the most noticeable construc-

46 Bakersfield Magazine

Parkway and the BNSF railroad tracks.

When complete, the Westside Parkway will provide a high-capacity, east-west

tion project is the Westside Parkway,

transportation facility that will:

where construction can be seen from

1. Reduce congestion on existing paral-

several major roadways. Ultimately, the

lel roads.

project will add 8 miles of new freeway,

2. Support current and planned devel-

extending from Heath Road at Stockdale

opment in western Bakersfield.

Highway east to Truxtun Avenue near SR-

3. Improve connectivity of the existing

99. The project also includes the exten-

transportation network.

sion of Mohawk Street from Truxtun Av-

4. Provide future multi-modal oppor-

enue to Rosedale Highway, providing an

tunities.

Initial work includes construction of a

ment Program. But TRIP officials continue

Road Interchange, Mohawk Street Exten-

six-lane freeway from Mohawk Street to

to look for alternate funding sources that

sion (Westside Parkway Phase 1), Westside

Allen Road (4.25 miles) with full inter-

would allow the project to start construc-

Parkway Phase 2 (Mohawk Street to Allen

changes at Mohawk Street, Coffee Road,

tion at an earlier date.

Road), State Route-99/7th Standard Road

and Calloway Drive. Construction also in-

As we watch the construction of these

Interchange Improvements, 7th Standard

cludes a bridge over the Parkway at Jew-

projects move from concepts to actual

Road Widening Project, and 7th Standard

etta Avenue, a signalized intersection at

roads and bridges, we can see how they’ll

Road/Santa Fe Way Grade Separation.

soon improve current traffic congestion.

Design has been completed on the final two phases of the Westside Parkway, and

ECONOMIC IMPACTS

six projects are under environmental re-

By Alan Tandy

view. The six construction contracts total

Five years ago I wrote an article for this

more than $176 million and include ap-

magazine about the upcoming Thomas

proximately 14 miles of new and improved

Roads Improvement Program. We had just

roadway and 18 bridge structures. Addi-

received the news that the Bakersfield re-

tional local and state matching funds have been added, for a combined TRIP budget of $1.2 billion.

What is visible for most who see the TRIP projects in progress are the construction crews, piles of dirt, and orange cones around

Aesthetic detail has been added to the bridges and overpasses.

town. Less visible, but very significant, are

TANDY

Allen Road, and sound walls adjacent to

the many economic impacts that such an

residential areas.

intense effort has on our community. For

The California Transportation Commis-

example, the $1.2 billion investment in the

sion allocated funding for the next phase

TRIP projects will support thousands of jobs.

of the Parkway, the Truxtun Tie-in, at its

Those jobs, in turn, will

June 2010 meeting. Funding is dependent

the $1.2 billion

upon the passage of a State budget and

spent on TRIP proj-

bond sales, but plans are complete and the project is ready to begin construction

gion would receive what I called

as soon as funds become available.

a “massive gift” to build better

The Truxtun Tie-in will build the seg-

roads in Bakersfield that will real-

ment of the Westside Parkway between

ize immeasurable benefits when

the Mohawk Street Interchange and

complete. The gift was from (re-

Truxtun Avenue. Two bridges will be built

tired) Congressman Bill Thomas

ects will support thousands of jobs. Those jobs, in turn, will create an additional $1.3 billion in em-

over the Kern River and they will allow di-

who had secured $630 million for

ployment income.

rect connections between the Westside

Bakersfield in the 2005 transporta-

–alan tandy

Parkway and Truxtun Avenue. It’s also

tion act.

generate $1.3 billion in employment

income

over the life of the program. The importance the TRIP program plays in our local economy cannot be understated, given the economic downturn we are currently experiencing.

Also worth noting is the large number

been designed to accommodate all pos-

At that time, we had identified in broad

sible alignments currently under consid-

terms the projects to be funded but had

ticipating in the project. The team for the

eration for the Centennial Corridor/SR-58

many details to put into place to get to the

Westside Parkway project includes nine lo-

Connector project.

point where construction on the projects

cal subcontractors and 38 local suppliers.

Funding for the Parkway’s west end,

could begin.

of local subcontractors and suppliers par-

The contractor reports that 75 percent of

between Allen Road and Stockdale High-

Since then, Bakersfield has seen con-

the workforce for that project is local.Those

way/Heath Road, is programmed in the

struction start on six major roadway proj-

who are not, stay in area hotels and spend

2012-13 State Transportation Improve-

ects, including the State Route 178/Fairfax

money on food and entertainment. >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 47

the big plan:

Growing a City

They also generate revenue for local gov-

Projects the scale of the Westside Park-

tion of the various state, local, and federal

ernment through transient occupancy and

way often entail huge right-of-way pur-

agencies on TRIP projects has resulted in

sales taxes, helping to fund local services.

chases and relocations, but the City be-

the development of a program-wide miti-

gan preserving right-of-way years before

gation program for federally endangered

development encroached on the corridor.

and state-listed species, such as the San

studies identified benefits such as savings

The result was that no homes had to be

Joaquin kit fox, Blunt Nosed Leopard Liz-

on travel time, fuel costs, and the reduction

acquired to make way for construction of

ard, and Bakersfield cactus.

in accident costs. There also will be reduc-

the Westside Parkway.

tions in external costs, such as noise levels and vehicle emissions.

PHOTO BY GILBERT VEGA

There have been several cost-benefit analyses of proposed TRIP projects. These

That’s not to say there haven’t been hiccups.

For example, with the completion of the

“It’s normal to have a few utility reloca-

Westside Parkway project, commuters will

tions and environmental challenges pop

experience less stop-and-go traffic and

up,” Clark explained. “It’s very important

greenhouse gasses will be considerably re-

we follow environmental laws and poli-

duced and will pay long term dividends to

cies, but it can be frustrating.”

PHOTO BY GILBERT VEGA

our community The most recent figures show that Bakersfield, based upon population within the city limits, is the 11th largest city in California.

We are also the 59th largest city in the nation, larger than either Toledo or Pittsburgh,

A worker scales the abutment on Coffee Road.

by comparison. If we were to include the population of the greater Bakersfield met-

Another unique aspect of TRIP is that

ropolitan area, we would rate even higher.

staff from the City, County and Caltrans,

We are no longer a small community, but a

along with Parsons are co-located in the

growing urban area with many of the same

same office.

“Being housed together in the same

challenges found in other urban areas. TRIP provides a unique opportunity to plan for our city’s current and future growth.

In the past five years, we have seen tremendous progress on many of the TRIP

Workers place concrete for a new bridge deck.

Especially when you have to relocate an entire elderberry bush.

building allows us to expedite the projects; all the agencies are here (in the TRIP’s offices on Truxtun Avenue),” Wright said.

“It’s what Congressman Thomas wanted.”

projects. In the next five years, we will see

“We realized for the Westside Parkway

When seen in its entirety, the program

even more – more completed projects,

construction, we’d need to transplant a

is unique. While environmental work is

more benefits to our community, and more

large elderberry bush,” he added. Large is

proceeding on one project, design or

revenue flowing into our economy.

an understatement. The thing was rough-

construction is on-going on another. That

ly the size of a large travel trailer.

means that hundreds of people, from nu-

SOMETHING UNIQUE “Usually a Department of Transportation heads up a project of this type and

“However, it housed the food source

merous consultant teams, are working

and habitat for a Valley Elderberry Long-

to make the necessary improvements to

horn Beetle, which is endangered.”

Bakersfield’s transportation system.

magnitude,” Wright said of the Westside

So workers extricated the bush, loaded

Parkway project. “It’s rare that a city will

it on a flatbed truck and shipped it north

run a project like this. And not only is the

to French Camp, a conservation area

City of Bakersfield running this project,

where a grouping of elderberry bushes

but it will be maintained and operated by

already grew. “Every project throws a dif-

the city upon completion, until it eventu-

ferent curve,” Clark added.

ally becomes Highway 58.”

48 Bakersfield Magazine

As an interesting aside, the collabora-

WHAT’S TO COME? What other projects will drivers be seeing throughout the coming years?

The SR-178/Morning Driving Interchange project has recently completed environmental studies and the Draft Envi-

ronmental Document was made available

58 via the Westside Parkway. Segment 1

With all that growth, our freeway

for public review in early September. The

would connect SR-58, east of Real Road,

system did not keep up the pace. Most

project will create a new interchange and

to the Parkway. Four build alternatives

transportation systems are improved

widen SR-178 to four lanes for approxi-

are currently under consideration and are

incrementally, in small steps. But Bakers-

mately 1.5 miles. Once the Final Environ-

progressing through the environmentmal

field’s dramatic growth meant even in-

mental Document is signed (in the next

phase. Construction is not slated to begin

cremental increases could not keep up

few months), the project will move into the

until late 2015, but the completion of this

with the demand.

project is needed to achieve both local

The large amount of funding for the

and inter-regional east-west connectivity.

Thomas Roads Improvement Program, will allow our community to plan and

OVERALL BENEFITS

build roadway capacity for the next 20

By Mayor Harvey L. Hall

to 30 years. Not only will TRIP provide a

The new freeways being built in Ba-

unique opportunity to build a systemic

kersfield have some people asking: now

transportation network for greater Ba-

that Bakersfield is so big, why should

kersfield, it gives our community a huge jump into the 21st century. Here’s how: First, we will see increased mobility and an improved transportation network.

Expect shorter travel times and shorter travel distances. Second, consider the number of accidents avoided. A better

The abutment at Coffee Road in a stage of completion.

transportation system means fewer fa-

final design phase. Construction is expect-

talities and fewer injuries.

ed to begin in 2013.

Third, look for an enhanced status for

A separate project on SR-178 is planned

Bakersfield as a distribution hub. Bakers-

to widen roughly 3.5 miles of SR-178 to

field has long been

four lanes from Canteria drive to Mira-

The amount of

known for its loca-

monte Drive. This project is expected to

funding for the

tional advantages and

start construction in late 2012.

Thomas Roads

we have promoted

Pending funding availability, the Hage-

they care about these new roads

man Road Flyover could also start con-

being built in other parts of

struction in 2012. The project would flyover

town far from their homes? The

SR-99, connecting Hageman Road west of

reason is simply that: because

SR-99 with Golden State Avenue (SR-204),

Bakersfield is so big. Not only

providing direct access from Northwest

has Bakersfield grown, it has

Bakersfield to the Central Business District.

grown tremendously in such a

Construction on Rosedale Highway

short time. Consider these facts:

and 24th Street are expected to begin in

1. Between 1980 and 2010,

2013. Rosedale Highway would be wid-

the size of Bakersfield’s city limits in-

ened from four to six lanes, from west of

creased 91.39 percent.

is good for business and good for Bakers-

Calloway Drive to SR-99, and 24th Street

2. Population in greater Bakersfield

field’s economy.

would include improvements to the 24th

increased 120.96 percent during that

Street/Oak Street intersection and widen-

same time.

long known about the problems of mov-

ing 23rd and 24th streets east to M Street.

3. Population in the Bakersfield city

ing east-west traffic across Bakersfield.

Finally, the Centennial Corridor/SR-

limits during that 30 year period in-

Freeway 99 handles north-south travel,

creased 220.94 percent.

and there are east-west freeways on >>

58 Connector would connect I-5 to SR-

Improvement Program will allow our community to plan and build roadway capacity for the next 20 to 30 years.

–Mayor harvey L. Hall

them to companies that want to get their products

to

major

western markets. Because of our strategic location outside the Southern

California

region, a better road system will allow for

faster travel of goods and services. That

Fourth, residents and businesses have

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 49

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New business is coming our Your HR personnel should be faway, which will, hopefully, genmiliar with company and statutory erate more business for Kern leaves of absence (e.g. sick leave, County employers as well as Pregnancy Disability Leave, Calithose relocating to our county. fornia Family Rights Act, Family It has been said that opportunity Medical Leave Act, etc.) and how has the uncanny habit of favorto manage them. And you should ing those who have paid the price be aware of how workers’ compenof years of preparation. The folsation and unemployment claims lowing are some things that emare being effectively managed. ployers can do from a human reCreate or update your emsources perspective to prepare for ployee handbook. Employers are the opportunity of more business. not required by law to provide a

By Robin Paggi Update your job descriptions. handbook to employees; however, More business means more employees. In addition employers are legally required to provide informato informing candidates about the duties of the posi- tion to their employees about their statutory rights tion, accurate and up-to-date job descriptions have a (such as leaves of absence). In addition to providvariety of benefits, such as helping employers devel- ing that information, having a carefully-drafted op better interview questions, make better hires and employee handbook provides clear expectations fairly evaluate performance, determine a reasonable of behavior so there are fewer misunderstandings. accommodation for disabilities, and reduce liability Handbooks usually contain information on comby being able to demonstrate why candidates select- pany policies (such as attendance, dress codes, use ed were the most qualified applicants. of company equipment, etc.) and company proceReview your hiring process. To ensure you’re dures (such as how to file a complaint). Employers in compliance with state and federal laws, ask who clearly describe the behavior they expect from questions such as the following: their employees are more likely to get that behav-Are your job applications free of questions ior from them. A handbook helps resolve conflicts about applicants’ race, color, sex, gender, preg- when misunderstandings do happen and supervisors nancy, sexual orientation, national origin, ances- know how to handle complaints, disciplinary actry, religion, age, marital status, mental disability, tions, leaves of absence requests, etc., and promote physical disability, and medical condition? consistency on how employee matters are handled.

-Have your interviewers been trained on how to An employee handbook can be so valuable that avoid inappropriate questions and ask only ques- the Small Business Administration believes that it tions that elicit information about the applicant’s “is one of the most important communication tools previous job experience and performance? between your company and your employees.”

-Are your pre-employment tests (such as physical Train your supervisors. Trained supervisors help agility, skills, and knowledge) job-related and accu- to reduce the risk of liability, improve productivity rate indicators of whether applicants will be able to and morale, and reduce turnover. Supervisors should perform the jobs for which they are applying? know how to (at a minimum) do the following: -Do you conduct background checks? If so, are -Model appropriate behavior. This means being you providing applicants with the proper notifica- knowledgeable about and adhering to company polition and waivers? cies and state and federal labor laws.

-Are you providing the legally-required informa-Communicate effectively. Supervisors need tion to new hires, such as their rights to workers’ to be able to give understandable instructions and compensation, state disability insurance, and the speak to people in a way that inspires them to perright to work in a harassment-free environment? form, instead of inspiring them to complain to HR Conduct an HR Department Review. Be or governmental agencies. sure to ensure all required notices are posted -Handle disciplinary actions in a way that is conwhere all employees and applicants can see them, sistent with company policy and improves producthat private information is being stored appropri- tivity and morale instead of destroying it. ately, and that employees are properly classified -Accurately document performance. Documentaas exempt and non-exempt and are being appro- tion is an invaluable tool in helping employers to avoid priately compensated. lawsuits or to help in their defense if they are sued.

Also ensure that time worked is being accurately Alexander Graham Bell said that, “Before anyrecorded, meal and rest periods are being provided thing else, preparation is the key to success.” Emto non-exempt employees, and the company’s Ill- ployers who get their businesses in order now will ness and Injury Prevention Program and Emer- be ready to hit the ground running when more busigency Action Plan are up-to-date. (All employers in ness comes their way. Opportunity is going to come California are required to have both). Don’t forget knocking. Are you prepared to answer? to make sure safety training is being conducted and properly recorded and that workplace accidents Contact Robin Paggi MA, SPHR-CA, CPLP at are being properly investigated and documented. KDG HR Solutions. (661) 328-5267

the big plan:

Growing a City

the east side of 99. However, west of 99

across town for daily activities. The result:

Not only will the TRIP projects im-

is another story. The TRIP roadwork will

frustration for everyone. The TRIP projects

prove our transportation network, they

resolve the east-west traffic movement

will help to channel that interregional traf-

will make it easier for people to get to

problem across the Bakersfield area.

fic onto major highways, so that the sur-

work, shopping, and recreation. That

face roads can once again be used for the

means improvement in many quality of

Fifth, TRIP projects will provide new crossings across the Kern River. Many of us recall

life issues. It also will speed the flow of

when the only way to get across the Kern

goods and services, making Bakersfield

River west of Freeway 99 was the two-lane

more attractive to businesses.

Stockdale Highway bridge. That was before

Regardless of where people live in

the bridges we have now at Coffee Road, Cal-

Bakersfield, they will benefit from the

loway Drive, and Allen Road. But today’s traf-

many TRIP projects. As Mayor, I am

fic still has too few ways to get across the riv-

proud to see our community embrace

er. With TRIP, the new Mohawk Street bridge

this forward-looking approach to ad-

linking Truxtun Avenue with Rosedale High-

dress our future transportation needs.

way, and the Westside Parkway bridges beIn the four years since TRIP opened its

tween Mohawk Street and Truxtun Avenue, will provide more ways to cross the river.

Lastly, interregional traffic currently clogs

Phase 2 construction of the Westside Parkway at Calloway.

doors, construction has started on six major roadway projects and has made con-

our surface streets. With no freeways to

daily routines of local residents. Local resi-

siderable progress toward completing

channel trucks and other vehicles through

dents also will be able to access those TRIP

environmental and technical studies on

many parts of Bakersfield, that traffic com-

routes, reducing time spent at stoplights

petes with local residents trying to get

and improving our local air quality.

the remaining projects. But there is still [cr ] much more to come.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 51

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natural Means

Big Biz

It’s been more than 100 years since pioneers began pumping “black gold” from Kern County soil. Little did THEY know that as they dug those first few

By Tracie Grimes

S

oil wells in the late

ince those early days, oil and gas

1800s, their labor

production has played a ma-

would continue to

jor part not only in Kern’s economic

fuel Kern County’s

growth, but in U.S. domestic oil and

economy for the

gas production. Over 10 percent of

next century.

U.S. domestic oil and gas comes from our area and five of California’s largest producing oil fields are right here in Kern County.

Innovation has kept Kern County at the epicenter of the nation’s energy-producing map. And although Kern will always be a leader when it comes to oil and natural gas production, the face of energy production in our county is beginning to change.

“Green” or renewable energy is the newest kid on Kern’s energy block. Biofuel, hydrogen, wind, and solar power are becoming bigger and bigger parts of Bakersfield’s energy-producing landscape, and with the current push to maximize domestic energy sources and find more environmentally-friendly ways to develop that energy, renewable energy is a fast-growing sector of our area’s economy.

“Diversifying our ‘energy portfolio’ to include renewables creates more stability in hard economic times,” Lorelei Oviatt, Kern County Director of Planning and Community Development, points out. “Renewable energy complements —if not enhances—our oil and gas production and brings in a new dimension of jobs. Projects will need the

the dip in the price of Kern’s crude oil,

by KE D os pr ovid ed

current slow-down in housing and

phot

may have been laid off because of the

C

same carpenters and electricians who

so we are seeing more and more opportunities for ‘green’ job training.” >>

[

CORPORATE

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] www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 53

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natural means

Big Biz

To get Kern’s workforce ready to go

California must produce 33 percent of its

green, local educational institutions are

electricity from renewable sources,” Flem-

offering training in working on renew-

ing says. “This renewable energy mandate

able energy projects. The Kern Community

is actually great for Kern County because

College District and the Employers’ Train-

it’s stimulated a lot of interest in our area.”

ing Resource are offering classes geared

Renewable resource energy is a natural

toward re-training displaced workers and

fit for Kern’s energy industry because not

preparing them to enter the fast-growing

only are we blessed with a wealth of natu-

“green workforce.” Independence High

ral resources, but because our geographic

School also offers clean energy instruction

location at the center of California makes

in its Energy and Utilities Academy, which

the energy we produce accessible to many

Lieutenant Governor Maldonado recently

metropolitan areas, Fleming observes.

called “the future of our California; the future of our nation.”

“We have all the ingredients it takes to produce a high volume of domestic en-

According to Robin Fleming, Kern Coun-

ergy, and the icing on the cake is that

ty Economic Development Corporation’s

we can deliver it quickly because of our

Senior Manager/Business Developer, those

close proximity to metropolitan areas.”

newly “greened” workers will start finding

Solar and wind are two of the fastest-

opportunities are available now because

growing areas in the field, Fleming com-

there’s a big rush to begin solar construc-

ments, grinning while she notes that “sun

tion projects by December, so businesses

and wind are natural resources we certainly have plenty of.

“The Mojave Desert has become a ‘hot

Bringing “Community” Back

spot’ for solar energy and plans are underway for the world’s largest solar array to be built in the area,” she explained, adding that about 20-plus solar projects are in the permitting stage, some of the most notable include Beacon Solar Energy Project

Lori Johnson • 661-205-2195 cwc-lori@live.com Christine Veteto • 661-472-8761 cwc-christine@live.com citywelcomecommittee.com

and Solar Millennium, LLC. Wind energy, already a staple of Kern’s economy since the first wind farm was built in Tehachapi in the early 1980s, is growing exponentially and has the potential of producing billions of renewable energy complements

“Whenever I go to an en-

Lorelei Oviatt

—if not enhances—

ergy conference and some-

Kern County Director of Planning and Community Development

our oil and gas

one finds out I’m from Kern

production. this

County, they usually say, ‘Oh,

brings in a whole

yeah, Tehachapi; you guys

can take advantage of tax

new dimension of

were first,” Fleming laughs.

incentives offered as part

jobs and helps to

of the American Recov-

stabilize our local

783 megawatts today and

job markets.

anticipate that number to

ery and Reinvestment Act. “Also, by the year 2020,

54 Bakersfield Magazine

dollars in revenue by 2030.

“We are producing about

grow by an additional 4,500,”

ect [The Tehachapi Renewable Transmis-

points out, “our commitment to attracting

sion Project],” Parker says, breathing a sigh

businesses to Kern County that will bring in

of relief. “ We wouldn’t have been able to

new jobs and boost our tax revenue flows

grow at all without this transmission proj-

from the top down; from the Board of Su-

ect because our current lines could not

pervisors to every employee in the county.”

transmit even one more watt. And since

Forward thinking that trickles from the

there’s no way to store wind energy, you

top down; maybe that’s why Kern County cit-

either have to use it or lose it.”

izens are following in the footsteps of coun-

Parker went on to say that although Cali-

ty leaders when it comes to going green.

fornia is not the easiest place to do busi-

“There’s been a shift in people’s attitude to-

ness, Kern County’s Planning & Community

wards energy,” Oviatt notes.“People in Kern

Development department goes above and

County are really starting to understand the

beyond their duty in working to get viable

importance of renewable energy. Did you

projects approved.

know that Bakersfield has the second most

“We are very blessed to have someone

rooftop solar panels in the country? This is

like Lorelei Oviatt and her staff here to

just another example of how people in our

Robin Fleming

educate, work out any complications, and

county look for innovative, common-sense

Kern County Economic Development Corporation’s Senior Manager/Business Developer

move projects forward in a way that ben-

approaches to current issues.”

“We really work to be respectful of prop-

tract renewable energy companies to Kern

says Linda Parker, Executive Director of the

erty owners and developers while protect-

County while keeping them excited about

Kern Wind Energy Association, noting that

ing Kern County’s irreplaceable natural

moving to California even after they find

the huge increase is due to the foresighted-

resources,” Oviatt emphasizes. “Our goal is

out all the CEQA (California Environmental

ness of Kern County planners and supervi-

to streamline the permit process so that

sors. “The county set aside 223,000 acres of

good projects, not just any project but the

land in the Tehachapi mountains to develop

ones that are sound and make sense, can

a huge wind farm, allowing about a dozen

get moving.

It’s a balancing act, finding ways to at-

efits all parties involved.”

small wind energy companies to build tur-

“The process in California takes about

bines on the land. Distribution of the power

three times as long as in any other state,

will be much more effective thanks to a new

and can be pretty frustrating, but that

transmission line, The Tehachapi Renewable

doesn’t mean it has to stop a project dead

Transmission Project, and the wind com-

in its tracks.”

panies will be able to sell power to several

The big question mark for starting con-

utilities. Once everything is up and running,

struction on wind projects in the Tehachapi

we’ll be able to deliver enough energy to

and Mojave Desert areas, for instance, was

power nearly three million homes in the Los

environmental. Disrupting the habitats of

Angeles and Kern County areas.”

the Mojave ground squir-

But even with our wealth of natural

rel and the desert tortoise

kern county

resources and the promise of economic

were of great concern to

produces about 783

stimulation, renewable energy project

environmentalists; and the

megawatts today

will bring to Kern County, getting the

U.S. Department of Defense

shovels in the ground is no easy task.

and it’s expected

contended that the height

“It took almost 10 years of walking the

to grow by an

of the wind turbines would

land; meeting with community members;

additional 4,500.

be hazardous to pilots.

this is due to the

Quality Act) regulations, per-

addressing environmental concerns; com-

“We worked hard to address these concerns and did

foresightedness of

mits, and EIR’s (Environmen-

plying with federal, state, and local agency regulations; and permitting requirements,

get the project approved,”

but we got the green light to start the proj-

Oviatt says, because, she

city planners and supervisors.

Linda Parker Executive Director of the Kern Wind Energy Association

tal Impact Reports) they are required to comply with.

“Lorelei and her staff >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 55

natural means

Big Biz

in to find any roadblocks they may face before they get to far into the process is one valuable service offered by Oviatt’s office.

Being good stewards as the swing toward renewable energy strengthens Kern County’s position as a leading energy provider is important because it ensures that we are forging ahead in a safe, environmentally-conscious way, Parker comments.

“It’s taken a lot of work over a lot of years to get to the point where the ‘planets are all in alignment,’ ” Parker adds, ticking off issues like addressing concerns that a wayward Condor would fly into a wind turbine (even though there are no reports of a Condor being killed or injured by a wind turbine) or the small tents that had to be put up over the “Bakersfield cacti” that were transplanted to allow for wind turbine construction. “And now we can, as Supervisor Don Maben

spend hours educating themselves and know every corner there is

pointed out, ‘Finally start putting the steel in the ground.’ But we

to turn when seeking a renewable energy building project permit,”

did what we needed to do to put Kern County at the top of the

Parker stresses. “They know how to spot the most viable projects,

map and were able to attract companies like Terra-Gen Power who

projects that will benefit Kern County taxpayers and the company

is currently building a $115 million wind farm that will feed 3,000

looking to come into Kern County, and they will help move the proj-

megawatts of clean power onto the grid.”

ect through the entire process as quickly as possible.”

Renewable energy, once considered a “new age” idea is turning

“Our job in Planning & Community Development is to get to the

into a rapidly-growing powerhouse in Kern County’s economy.

shovel-in-the-ground point just as fast. But we also want to protect our

And as technology keeps advancing, bringing us more gadgets de-

way of life here in Kern County.We want to be respectful of people and

signed to enhance and improve our life, it’s nice to know we’ll be

their connections with the land and environment,” Oviatt adds.

able to power up our iPods, computer games, and air conditioners

Helping interested companies investigate land they’re interested

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without depleting our county’s expendable resources.

[cr ]

By Charlie Durgin

unrestricted

Dream Space

“ Capitalism is the best way to drive innovation. If we relied on the government to build the first

Stu Witt is a busy man.

airline, we’d have

He’s the General Manager of the Mo-

one giant air-

jave Air & Space Port in Mojave, CA. In between fielding media requests from CBS, USA Today, and the equally-

plane that flies two times a year.”

–michael Mealling

esteemed Bakersfield Magazine, he’s also managing staff and overseeing events at his facility that are, well, rocket science.

On this particular August afternoon, Burt Rutan’s world famous Scaled Composites has flown their White Knight aircraft; it’s the one that will ferry SpaceShipTwo into suborbit along with six paid passengers in the near future. The passengers will be able to see the blackness of space through the ship’s portholes, and they’ll also get a rare view of Earth below.

But there is more going on at what some call “The New Area 51.”

Just don’t expect Witt to be especially chatty about it.

“We are very protective of tenants and their operations...

The same reason that Orville and Wilbur went to Kitty Hawk in 1897, is the same reason people were drawn to Mojave,” Witt says of the remote high desert location.

“Our claim is we have unrestricted dream space,” Witt adds, using a popular unofficial slogan, “and our people want protections from the encroachment of the press, and they want protection from industrial espionage.”

If one were to have unfettered access Burt Rutan

The futuristic SpaceShipTwo with wings feathered upward for re-entry as it returns from space. illustration courtesy virgin galactic

to the grounds, they would see many blackened windows and little sign of what was happening behind them.

“The truth is, most hangar doors are closed unless they are moving an object in or out; people are very protective of their trade secrets, as they

Photo courtesy virgin galactic/ Mark Greenberg

should be,” Witt says. >>

[

CORPORATE

RELOCATION

] www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 57

Dream Space

Stu Witt, General Manager of the Mojave Air & Space Port.

Photo courtesy mojave AIR & space port

Photo courtesy xcor

unrestricted

The first passenger space flight with the Lynx suborbital spacecraft is scheduled for 2011.

cial Officer of Masten Space Systems can understand, but doesn’t always subscribe to the practice. Masten builds affordable unmanned spacecraft—de-

done? Just about everything. In the ‘80s,

Photo provided by masten space systems

Michael Mealling, Vice President of Business Development and Chief Finan-

Burt Rutan cooked up the design for Voyager, the first aircraft to circumvent the globe without stopping or refueling.

In the new millennium, Rutan’s appetite for innovation has not waned.

livering loads between 50 and 100 kilo-

Scaled Composites has made numer-

grams to space for experiments.

ous ownership changes and partner-

When their service goes online, it’ll

ships over the years, with perhaps the

cost $250 a kilogram at the special “edu-

most compelling to the public being his

cational” rate to take your experiment

alliance with British billionaire Sir Rich-

or test into space. A bargain when you

ard Branson. In 2005, Branson’s Virgin

consider it can currently cost anywhere

Group partnered with Scaled Compos-

from $3,000 to $10,000 to put some-

ites to form The Spaceship Company,

thing into low orbit, according to differ-

and the simple name belies a serious

ent industry websites.

business.

“We come from an IT background, so

According to a press release on Virgin

we are used to bugs. We’ll show you our

Galactic’s website, The Spaceship Com-

explosions and mishaps,” Mealling ex-

pany recently conducted a very suc-

plains.

cessful “Captive Carry” flight test. Virgin

And true to form, Masten regularly

Galactic, a division of Branson’s Virgin

posts videos of successes and failures to

Group, aspires to send six private passen-

YouTube for all to see.

gers into suborbit for a weightlessness experience and stunning views of the

According to Mealling, having an open door policy is an exception rather

Earth. The flight involves a spacecraft of

than the rule.

the “SpaceShipTwo” designation being flown to altitude by a “mothership.”

“Take Scaled Composites,” Mealling

According to the same press release,

elaborates. “They’re ‘closed mouth,’ and

“VSS Enterprise remained attached to

that’s Burt’s style; he doesn’t tell you what he’s done until he’s done it.”

And what has Scaled Composites

58 Bakersfield Magazine

Xoie rocket returning to earth after winning the $1 million prize from NASA in the Northrop Grumman Lunar Lander Challenge.

its unique WhiteKnightTwo carrier aircraft, VMS Eve, for the duration of the 2

Photo courtesy XCOR/MIKE MASSEE

hour, 54 minute flight, achieving an altitude of 45,000 feet.”

“This [was] a momentous day for the Scaled and Virgin teams. The captive carry flight signifies the start of what we believe will be an extremely exciting and successful spaceship flight test program,” Rutan says via official statement.

According to company statements, Virgin Galactic has already taken around $45 million in deposits for space flight reservations from over 330 people wanting to experience space for themselves.

The XR-5M15 prototype engine is run at XCOR’s test site on the Mojave Air & Space Port.

The program still has benchmarks to complete before the lucky 330 on the reservation list get their shot at proving they’ve got the right stuff.

Company statements

Virgin Galactic has already taken $45

ing craft if we make our

end of the business and the dream,”

million in deposits

way to Mojave.

Mealling adds.

indicate that “the VSS En-

for space flight

terprise test flight program

reservations from

will

over 330 people

continue

through

2010 and 2011, progressing from captive carry to independent glide and then powered flight, prior

wanting to experience space for themselves.

to the start of commercial operations.”

While Rutan’s policy of

Recently, Masten Space Systems took

reservation seems rooted

a $1 million-dollar X Prize for winning

in humility and a desire

the Northrop Grumman Lunar Lander

to follow through before

Challenge last year. The prize was a sig-

boasting, Mealling

says

nificant take for Masten; according to

there is solid business

Mealling, they’ve only spent $3 million

sense for staying quiet

total so far.

about technological breakthroughs and plans.

“Capitalism is the best way to drive innovation,” Mealling says. “If we relied on

So, while this means the 330 on the

“We are commercial companies, and

the government to build the first airline,

short list still have at least a year to wait,

we are trying to grow the business, and

we’d have one giant airplane that flies

it means that the rest of us might be

one slip could mean a lost contract, and

two times a year.”

able to catch a test flight of this amaz-

that lost contract could mean the

For all the excitement that space travel brings, there is a lot more going on in Mojave that is ground based.

Many folks at the Mojave Air & Space Port say that the future can be seen from the high desert, and if the hard numbers are any indication, the future will involve more trains than

DROP SHOT: SpaceShipTwo is released from VMS Eve, a carrier mothership for Virgin Galactic.

illustration courtesy virgin galactic

it does jet packs.

“Ninety percent of our business is in other sectors (than space travel),” Witt adds. “Our growth business is train intermodal storage of wind components and other specialty shipment items that need cross country transit.” >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 59

unrestricted

Dream Space

In plain terms? “Progress Rail is here turning rail wheels, and if you’ve ever ridden skateboards, you know what ‘trucks’ are,” Witt explains, referring to the wheel and axle assembly that sits below the deck. While it isn’t futuristic, “Shipping by train is very cost effective, The only problem it faces is one you won’t find in space, or the Mojave Air & Space Port for that matter-routes. “We don’t have enough rail lines,” he says.

Still, the heart of the matter lies in put-

Photo courtesy scaled composites

it’s much cheaper than trucking.”

Space Port

The Space Shuttle program will be

Rutan and Scaled Composites use the Mojave Air & Space Port as a launch site for numerous aircraft.

program will be scuttled in 2011, and after

ting people into space. And NASA won’t be doing it much longer.

The Space Shuttle

that another

scuttled in 2011, and after that, “we’ll be

American

in the position of hitching rides to space

mission,

from someone else,” Witt concludes.

possibly

that, “we’ll be in the position of hitching rides to space from someone else.”

–Stu Witt

In 2015 or 2016, the International

private, will

Space Station will be positioned over

be shipping

the Pacific Ocean and deorbited. Then,

astronauts to space from American soil.

suborbit for just $95,000. Test flights are scheduled to begin for the one pilot-one passenger craft in 2011. Again, a bargain when compared to NASA’s rates, and even the $200,000 cost of Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo. You can see the future for yourself from the Voyager Restaurant in Mojave,

the world’s most expensive object—at

Firestar Technologies is doing promis-

CA. Just get a table, enjoy a meal, and

$100 billion, according to the General

ing work in new rocket fuels including

let your eyes wander across the wide

Accounting Office—will become a mas-

the world’s first monopropellant, gas-

open dream space in Kern County’s

sive fireball as it reenters Earth’s atmo-

cooled rocket engines.

high desert.

Photo courtesy virgin galactic

But there is hope at the Mojave Air &

60 Bakersfield Magazine

Xcor Aerospace is developing reus-

But given the super secret nature of

able rockets, and has begun pre-selling

these companies, don’t tell them you [cr ] heard it here.

tickets to ride its Lynx spacecraft into

Sir Richard Branson stands beside SpaceShipOne, winner of the $ 10 million Ansari X-Prize.

Virgin Galactic unveils the VMS Eve Mothership.

Photo courtesy virgin galactic/Mark Greenberg

sphere. So we might be running out of time to drive ourselves.

[cr ]

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 61

62 Bakersfield Magazine

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 63

64 Bakersfield Magazine

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 65

66 Bakersfield Magazine

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Bakersfield Business Conference

America’s Premier One-Day Conference

2010

Twenty-fifth Anniversary Encore Presentation

Presenting an encore performance in celebration of our 25th year!

. WELCOME .

Twenty-five years ago, 250 of us gathered in the clubhouse of Stockdale Country Club to participate in the first of what would become 21 annual Bakersfield Business Conferences. The participation grew to over 10,000 annually and the home of the Conference became California State University, Bakersfield.

Five years ago, we decided to hold our last Conference. Over the last five years we have continued to receive emails, letters, and telephone calls asking that we bring back the Conference. One Shirley D’Aoust demanded the return and you learn not to say “no” to a determined lady who handles her wheelchair like a weapon. So today, we present the Bakersfield Business Conference Encore Performance in celebration of our 25th year of the founding of the Conference. Henceforth we will present a Conference every five years, thus making certain the Conference does not get stale as new speakers, leaders, and issues are presented.

The last five years have presented transformational changes in the political, social, and economic forces that are constantly affecting our lives and businesses, making it more important now than ever to hear from those directly involved with world and national affairs.

When we started the Conference 25 years ago, our motto was “Making Learning Fun.” The Conference still stands for a mix of humor, lectures, music, motivational talks, and patriotic venues to make your experience worthwhile and enjoyable. We want your Conference experience to be casual and we think you will agree that our “tent city” is a much more pleasant setting than a stuffy hotel conference room or bleachers in a stadium. We will present the Main Tent program with three other smaller tents running simultaneous programs so you can pick and choose who you want to see and hear.

We also offer areas of respite from the lecture venues. Try our traditional Sports Tent sponsored by Bright House for catching up on the games of the day, take a relaxing break in the “Quiet Deal,” enjoy a trip to the Ice Cream Pavilion and stop by the Farmers Market for complimentary treats, take a ride on our 100-foot Ferris Wheel for an overview of the grounds, and take a walk among the 2,790 American flags and

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

90 flags from foreign countries—a tribute to the victims of 9/11. Let the kid in you come alive as you take a ride on our All-American Carousel and enjoy the best of our local artists in our Art Pavilion. Don’t miss the book signings and greetings at the Stars & Stripes Arcade, and be sure to stop at the Mayor’s Tent and CSUB tents and say hello to our city and university officials.

We will start the day in the Main Tent with the comedy of Rich Little and end the day program with some very special patriotic surprise guests.

For those of you leaving us after the day program, take in the 100-plus award-winning automobiles that will be assembled starting at 5:30 p.m. in an area on your way back to the parking lots. The cars are being furnished by the Highway 99 Cruisen-Show that is having a show in Bakersfield this weekend. The car show area will also feature music by Foster Campbell and Friends (an outstanding R & B band) with Becky DeShields.

For those of you staying for the evening program, the gates to the “Music Of Our Lives” concert and picnic open at 6:00 p.m., directly across from the Ferris Wheel in the CSUB Amphitheater. You are welcome to take in the auto show and then mosey on down to the amphitheater if you wish. This evening’s entertainment will feature a picnic dinner being served between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. and a concert starting at 7:00 p.m., with a tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper (the only authorized tribute by the estates of their families), ‘60s and ‘70s sensation Bobby Vee, and, of course, the legendary Ronnie Milsap. There will also be a very funny special surprise comedian, and our patriotic fireworks show. Gates will close at 10:30 p.m. following the evening concert.

With so many wonderful speakers and entertainers, it is our sincere hope that you will be able to gain one, two, or three really terrific ideas that will help you and your families advance and become more prosperous in the years to come.

I hope you have a wonderful day and we’ll see you in 2015.

Very truly yours,

George F. Martin Borton Petrini, LLP

Bakersfield Business Conference

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. CONTENTS .

A close-up look at Borton Petrini, LLP.

As the lights go down, discover what awaits you on the Conference Grounds.

Firm Behind The Conference

Evening Entertainment .......... 50

.........

6

Helpful hints to make the best of your day.

A step-by-step look behind the scenes of this year’s Conference.

Of Interest To You ............................. 9

Making It Happen ...................

Some long-time favorites and some new things to experience.

All the sports and how we bring them to you.

Things To See & Do .................14

The Sports Tent .................. 60

A patriotic flag tribute to the victims of 9/11.

What’s there, who’s involved, and why you’ll want to visit!

Pepperdine Flags ..............................15

Stars & Stripes ...................... 61

By the numbers...what it takes to make an event of this magnitude happen.

We give you a brief look at the people who help make this event happen.

Think Big ................................. 17

Our Volunteers

Learn all about those who will be speaking throughout the day.

City-by-city, state-by-state, country-by-country list of our attendees’ hometowns.

Speaker Biographies .................19

Global Community ................ 63

..................

53

62

Twenty-fifth Anniversary Encore Presentation Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Bakersfield Business Conference

S-

News and helpful information that will make your day go smoothly.

Of Interest to You Assisted Listening Devices Assisted listening devices will be provided for those who need them. If you would like an assisted listening device, please let an usher know, and he or she will bring one to you. A copy of your driver’s license will be made. They will be located in the Information Tent for those who would like to check one out before the speakers begin. Return assisted listening devices at the conclusion of the Conference program as you leave for home or as you head to the evening concert.

Disabled Services The Business Conference provides a full range of services for the disabled, from shuttle service to and from the parking lot, shuttle service to and from the Main Tent and restrooms, to lunch delivery service in the Main Tent. Quality Team, Inc. provides wheel chairs for our Disabled Services so we can assist you if wheel chair services are needed. Disabled Services also provides escort services to all areas of the grounds. For service, stop by Disabled Services as you enter the Conference or notify one of the ushers or other volunteers who will see to attendee needs.

First Aid Services Emergency and first aid services will be available in the First Aid Tent, compliments of Bakersfield Family Medical Center. Located at the north end of the grounds, a physician and nurse will be on duty all day. Hall Ambulance is ready in case of an emergency situation.

Information Tent In order to make your visit as pleasant and worry free as possible, Conference organizers provide a conveniently located, all purpose Information Tent where attendees may get updates on the day’s Conference programs and ask for directions on Conference grounds. Also in the Information Tent will be assisted listening devices distribution, prize drawing ticket drop-off, and lost and found.

Internet Access Bright House Networks provides Internet access on the grounds for attendees who need to check their email or search the Internet. ~Conference Special Events~ Art Pavilion Don’t miss the beautiful and unique art work of local Kern County artists on display and for sale in the Art Pavilion. Enjoy everything from sculptures to hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind paintings.

Bakersfield High School Chorale As attendees enter the Conference grounds, they will be entertained by the sounds of the Bakersfield High School Chorale. Featuring 66 sophomores, juniors, and seniors, they have received “Superior” ratings at the annual California Music Educators’ Association festivals every year since 2002.

The BHS Chorale will continue to entertain prior to the first speaker and will return to the Conference grounds as the day program comes to an end.

Restrooms Restroom facilities are located on the west side of the Conference grounds. Restrooms for those with special needs also will be available. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to call upon our volunteers in Disabled Services.

Borton Petrini, LLP Business Tent Get up close and personal with the attorneys from the law firm and local business leaders who will be discussing important legal and business topics of interest to you throughout the day in the Business Tent. Check your program schedule for times.

Telephones AT&T Wireless and Verizon Wireless will make local and long distance cellular service available. Cellular services are located near the front entrances to the Main Tent.

Carousel Take a trip down memory lane back to your childhood and enjoy a fun ride on the carousel located in front of the Main Tent in the center of the Conference grounds. >

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Bakersfield Business Conference

S-

BRAIN SURGERY

SPINE SURGERY

N AT I O N A L R E C O G N I T I O N | LO C A L R E P U TAT I O N

~Patient Testimonial~ “I am a 50-year-old active person that was in a lot of pain due to two herniated discs. Dr. Gantwerker performed a micro-discectomy. And now, two months after the surgery, I am 100% better, out of pain, and fully active. The caring and professional staff of the Brain & Spine Center made this difficult time so much easier to take. I can’t thank Dr. Gantwerker and the staff enough for giving me my life back. I would recommend Dr. Gantwerker and the Brain & Spine Center to anyone needing back help.” —Debbie Cronk, Bakersfield

I

t is increasingly difficult to make sense of the treatment now available to chronic back pain sufferers.

Bakersfield 9300 Stockdale Hwy., Suite 300 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 414-9100

The physicians at the Brain & Spine Center of Bakersfield can provide you with compassionate and knowledgeable care for your chronic back pain.

Valencia/Santa Clarita 25751 McBean Parkway, Suite 305 Valencia, CA 91355 (661) 799-2542

Our neurosurgeons and clinicians will use their expertise to recommend the right treatment for you. Ask your physician to refer you, or call to schedule an appointment with one of our experts!

Neurosurgical & Spine Conditions Seen

Surgical Techniques Used

• Degenerative disorders of the spine • Neck pain disorders • Back pain disorders • Leg pain disorders • Traumatic disorders of the spine • Head trauma • Brain & spine tumors, malignant & benign • Trigeminal neuralgia & facial pain • Parkinson’s disease • Movement disorders • Revision spine surgery • Spine related arm or leg pain

• Minimally invasive surgery • Complex spinal fusion • Non-fusion spinal surgery • Artificial disc technology • Image guided brain surgery • Stereotactic brain surgery • Deep brain stimulation (DBS) • Spinal cord stimulation • Gamma Knife radiosurgery*

Mark A. Liker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

NEUROsurgeon

Northridge 18350 Roscoe Blvd., Suite 318 Northridge, CA 91325 (818) 827-2720 Fax: (661) 253-0248

We proudly accept Medicare and other PPO insurances.

*Northridge Hospital Medical Center offers Leksell Gamma Knife by Elekta

Visit us online: www.brain-spinecenter.com

Sherwin E. Hua, M.D., Ph.D. NEUROsurgeon

Brian R. Gantwerker, M.D. NEUROsurgeon

Lisa J. Mendez, NEUROSURGICAL PA-C

Jung Sung, NEUROSURGICAL PA-C

QUALITY CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Celebrity Speakers Tents For a different perspective, there are two Celebrity Speakers Tents where you can get up close in a more personal setting with speakers who can interact with the audience, giving them a chance to ask questions.

Conference Drawing Don’t forget to fill out your drawing card before our mid-afternoon drawing–you might go home a winner of one of our door prizes! You may drop your card off any time before lunch at the Information Tent or give it to one of our ushers in the Main Tent.

CSUB Pavilion As you enter the grounds and adjacent to the Mayor’s Tent, the California State University, Bakersfield Pavilion will return, providing visitors with information about various campus activities and programs. 2010 marks CSUB’s 40th anniversary. As such, the theme is “40 years of excellence.” There is an upscale lounge-type feel to the tent, featuring a video loop of historic and current photos, supplemented by enlarged historic photos displayed around the tent. There will be desserts served throughout the day as well as literature from various schools and departments on campus.

Ferris Wheel A Ferris Wheel, dubbed the Giant Wheel, will be on the CSUB campus to offer attendees gorgeous, one-ofa-kind daytime and evening views of the entire Conference grounds. The Ferris Wheel gives folks a chance to be a kid again and is a Conference-goer favorite. Be sure you take a ride.

Mayor’s Tent Harvey L. Hall, Mayor of the City of Bakersfield, invites all Business Conference guests to meet him in the “Mayor’s Tent,” located near the entrance and the CSUB Pavilion. Mayor Hall has rolled out the red carpet to greet you and showcase an impressive variety of businesses that call Bakersfield home.

Newspapers Today’s newspaper, provided by The Bakersfield Californian, will be available at several locations throughout the Conference grounds.

Stars & Stripes Arcade Want to see more of your favorite speakers today?

The Stars & Stripes Arcade will have books and audio tapes on sale by our speakers, provided by Russo’s Bookstore. Not only can you purchase speaker books, but also many of our speakers will be holding book signings, giving Conference guests the chance to meet their favorite speakers and take home priceless mementos.

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Sports Tent by Bright House Having trouble concentrating on the speakers when you don’t know how your teams are doing? Take a break and visit the Sports Tent where you will find a bank of television sets with all your favorite sports programming provided by Bright House and a scoreboard with updated scores for your favorite teams. You’ll also find two computer operators connected to the Internet who can pull up any game in which you’re interested. The action on the Internet is transmitted to two, large 40-inch monitors so you can see the action as it happens. Also in the Sports Tent, there will be refreshments and a no-host bar.

Quiet Deal Back again this year by popular demand is the Quiet Deal located near the Stars & Stripes Arcade for those who just need to relax for a moment or take a power nap. Available will be cots near a relaxing fountain for your lounging pleasure. ~Conference Meals & Snacks~ Alcoholic Beverage Bar Your favorite alcoholic beverages will be available in four convenient locations: the Sports Tent, the Beer Garden, and two bars near entrances to the Main Tent.

All-American Bakersfield Lunch A highlight of the Conference has always been the great food. Lunch, served through more than 140 serving lines in less than 30 minutes, will be available at the Lunch Buffet Tent directly behind the Main Speakers Tent.

This year’s menu includes: Seasoned Tri-Tip Roast Vegetarian Santa Maria Barbecue Beans Penne Pasta Salad with Olives, Capers, Mozzarella Cheese, and Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette Mixed Green Salad with Light Italian Dressing Cherry Tomato, Bell Pepper, and Onion Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing Soft Rolls and Butter Gourmet Brownies and Lemon Bars Note: Your lunch ticket is attached to your Conference ticket. Be sure to take your ticket with you to the Lunch Tent.

Beer Garden A favorite of Conference attendees and a great spot to relax with a domestic or imported brew, or a glass of wine, our Beer Garden returns this year for the enjoyment of our attendees.

Continental Breakfast In the morning, the Refreshment Tents will serve a Continental Breakfast that includes pastries, mini-muffins, doughnuts, and bagels and cream cheese or butter, tea, and coffee.

Farmers Market The Farmers Market has been a favorite with Conference attendees since its first appearance. The Farmers Market > Bakersfield Business Conference

S-11

is located under the Jumbotron on the south end of the Conference grounds and will be providing healthful snacks all day. Our famous Farmers Market will feature fresh fruits, nuts, and raisins provided by local and international specialty suppliers and growers. Be sure to stop by the Farmers Market to sample the following wonderful products:

Bolthouse Farms - Juices and carrot Snak Paks California Fruit Depot - Walnut Stuffed Medjool Dates Grimmway Farms - Carrots, Oranges, and Lemons Hronis, Inc. - Grapes Kingsburg Apple - Asian Pears, White Peaches, Nectarines, Pluots Royal Moonlight Corp. - Nectarines and Plums Paramount Farms - Sunkist Pistachios and Almonds Paramount Citrus - Oranges and Lemons McCafé Coffee Complimentary McCafé Coffee service provided by the local McDonald’s Franchise Owners is located near the entrance to the grounds. They’ll help you wake up first thing in the morning and unwind at the end of the day serving iced and hot lattes, and espressos.

Thrifty Ice Cream Pavilion Rite Aid will be serving Thrifty Ice Cream to celebrate Thrifty Ice Cream’s 70th anniversary. Thrifty Ice Cream Sandwiches will be available in Vanilla, Mint N Chip, Neopolitan, and Cookies N Cream. Thrifty Ice Cream will be available in cups of Vanilla, Rocky Road, Pistachio Nut, Strawberry, Chocolate Malted Krunch, and Mint N Chip.

Refreshments Throughout the day, refreshments in the Refreshment Tents will be available for attendees’ enjoyment, featuring popcorn, Pepsi products, and Crystal Geyser bottled water.

~Of Interest to You on the Amphitheater Grounds this Evening~ Alcoholic Beverage Bar Bar services will be available at a Bar Tent on the Amphitheater grounds as well as in the Sports Tent which will remain open until the close of the evening concert program.

Art Pavilion If you missed this pavilion during the day, the Art Pavilion will remain open during the evening program to give you an opportunity to see the art exhibited by local artists.

Highway 99 Cruise-n-Show As you leave for home or for the Music Of Our Lives

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evening concert program, stop by and admire 100 or so classic cars from the Highway 99 Cruise-n-Show located just outside the entrance to the Conference grounds which will be on display between 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Evening Entertainment - Music of Our Lives The evening entertainment program is an additional ticketed event following the day Conference program and will be held under the stars in the CSUB Amphitheater. The “Music Of Our Lives” Program starts at 6:00 p.m. with a picnic dinner by Hodel’s Country Dining followed by an outstanding evening of entertainment.

Dance or sit back and enjoy a nonstop concert with the Winter Dance Party re-creating the performances of Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens, followed by a Surprise Guest, and then a 45-minute set by Bobby Vee, who took Buddy Holly’s place on the Winter Dance Party tour the night after the famous crash in 1959. Following Bobby Vee’s performance, the program will feature a patriotic, 15-minute fireworks spectacular, and then the legendary Ronnie Milsap will finish the program performing many of his 40 number one hits. The Evening Program promises to be a patriotic remembrance of the Music Of Our Lives and just plain more fun than a person should be allowed!

Fireworks Show A spectacular fireworks show choreographed to inspirational and patriotic music has, again, been planned.

Foster Campbell and Friends Band Enjoy the jazz and R&B sounds of the Foster Campbell and Friends band who will be entertaining you from 5:30 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. at the Highway 99 Cruise-nShow before the evening concert begins.

Picnic in the Park Another example of the tasty fare at the Conference will be the Picnic in the Park provided by local Hodel’s Country Dining and available when you enter the CSUB Amphitheater Evening Entertainment grounds.

This year’s picnic will include: Marinated, Oven-Roasted Chicken • Rice Pilaf Tossed Green Salad • Fresh Fruit Tomato Cucumber Salad • Potato Salad Pasta and Vegetable Salad Rolls and Butter • Assorted Cookies Refreshments Refreshments will continue to be served throughout the evening in a Refreshment Tent on the Amphitheater grounds featuring popcorn, Pepsi products, and Crystal Geyser bottled water.

Sports Tent The Sports Tent will remain open throughout the evening so you can continue to check the scores of your favorite teams.

One-Day Conference 2010

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Find Out For Yourself What Everyone Is Talking About.

Things to See & Do A 25th anniversary comes around only once and because there are so many things to see and do while attending the Conference, we want to make sure you know about these special activities.

Guests will have the chance to view classic cars that have been hand-selected to sit on the grounds of the Conference. The same weekend of the Conference the 7th Annual Cruise-n-Show will be taking place downtown—so the two will combine for the first time this year.

“We’re very excited to be a part of the conference,” said Art Carlock, the man behind this nationally-recognized car show. “It’s an honor to get a friendly call from George [Martin] and be asked to participate.” And the Conference is just as happy to have them.

Folks will start seeing specialty cars drive onto the grounds later in the afternoon, after a spe-

Amusements, these two attractions will give guests the chance to be a child again as they soar 100 feet into the air or twirl under the lights of an antique carousel, which originated from the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas before being purchased by the Helms.

It will take more than four semi trucks and trailers to move these rides.

“We’re very proud to be involved again,” said Dave Helm. “This is a great opportunity and we, as a company, have a great appreciation for the United States, so it’s a great fit.”

Finally, ticket-holders will have the chance to take a stroll through the Art Pavilion. Local artist Monica Nelson, a veteran exhibit coordinator, has gathered over a dozen fellow local artists who have produced unique works of art for display and sale at the Conference...a first in Conference history.

“George Martin was inspired to have local art on

cial committee at the Cruise-n-Show hand-picks the best of the best. The best two cars will be selected to sit on stage, so keep your eyes peeled.

At the same time, local R & B group Foster Campbell and Friends will grace the stage, performing their brand of feel-good music as attendees to the Evening Show arrive, ready for a night of dancing.

And a conference of this magnitude wouldn’t be complete without a 100-foot Ferris wheel, dubbed the Giant Wheel, and an All-American Carousel.

Supplied by Dave and Debby Helm of Helm & Sons

display,” said Nelson. “It is a chance for the entire nation to see the diversity and talent of Bakersfield artists.” There will be everything from sculptures to hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind paintings for Conference goers to admire.

The Art Pavilion is located next to the Sports Tent and will be open during the evening entertainment as well.

So in addition to the dozens of speakers to hear, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do at this year’s Conference.

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One-Day Conference 2010

Pepperdine Flags We sincerely hope you have the chance to stroll the grounds and take in all there is to see. In addition to the many vendors, activities, and sights, a particularly important display will be available for Conference attendees to appreciate. It is the Pepperdine University Flag Memorial and it is, perhaps, the most moving addition to this year’s Conference.

The memorial is the work of Pepperdine students, faculty, staff, volunteers, facilities management, and planning staff wanting to pay tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The tribute was conceived originally and led by the University’s chapter of the College Republicans in 2008, said Pepperdine University Director of Student Activities, Doug Hurley.

“Each year, the display is coordinated by students and volunteers,” Hurley added. “The beauty and power of seeing all those American

As it has annually since September 2001, the University holds a brief prayer service at the Garden, a 14,880-square-foot outdoor garden which honors 9/11 victims and overlooks the Pacific Ocean on one of the highest bluffs on the Malibu campus.

However, thanks in part to the Kern County chapter of the Wounded Heroes Fund and the West High School ROTC, the flags will be flying patriotically on the Conference grounds. Both organizations will be spending the days prior to the conference laying rebar to support the thousands of flags. The day before, they’ll come back and post all the flags in their holders, in uniform, for this ceremonious occasion.

“Viewing the flags is a great way to remember and commemorate the innocent people whose lives were lost that day,” Hurley continued. “It’s not a statement on war and it doesn’t have any-

and International flags flying needs very little explanation. It’s very sacred.”

The are 2,880 flags displayed each year on the Pepperdine Campus—one for each life lost.

The flags have been carefully transported to the Bakersfield Business Conference this year for attendees to appreciate.

The Conference is the first event to make the request to have the memorial on display. This is very special as Hurley explained that this is not a moving display. It’s home is the Pepperdine Campus, where it’s known as the Heroes Garden.

thing to do with politics. It’s about remembering those people.”

Hurley said that word-of-mouth has brought a lot of attention to the memorial and the public’s response has been overwhelming. What these students and volunteers have accomplished is breathtaking and on such a patriotic day, it seems fitting that such a display will be on the grounds of this anniversary event, and everyone from the Conference is thrilled and honored to host the memorial so guests can fully appreciate the majesty of the nearly 3,000 flags flying high.

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Bakersfield Business Conference

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Think Big If you were going to throw a party for 10,000 guests, where would you start? Probably with a list—a BIG list—of everything you would need, starting with a 50-acre site and a lot of other stuff. Here’s what it takes, by the numbers, to transform an empty field and an amphitheater into one of the most successful business conferences ever.

Food for 10,000 25,000 bottles of Crystal Geyser bottled water 15,000 servings of Pepsi, Diet Pepsi & Sierra Mist 1,500 gallons of coffee 12,000 packets of sugar 60,000 pounds of ice 20,000 breakfast pastries 1,800 pounds green salad 4,000 pounds potato salad 11,000 soft rolls 19,500 pats of butter 4,000 pounds of tri-tip 375 gallons marinade 1,500 pounds of pasta 300 pounds of cream cheese 400 pounds of Santa Maria beans 200 pounds of salt 250 pounds of sugar

6,000 individual servings of raisins from Enoch Packing 500 pounds Sun World Thompson Seedless grapes 500 pounds Sun World Crimson grapes 100 Grimmway Farms lemons 800 pounds Kingsburg Apple Asian pears 800 pounds Kingsburg Apple white peaches 750 pounds Kingsburg Apple nectarines 750 pounds Kingsburg Apple pluots 960 pounds Paramount Farms oranges 120 pounds Paramount Farms lemons 5,000 individual servings of Grimmway Farms carrots

2,000 pounds Moonlight Sales Corp. nectarines 2,000 pounds Moonlight Sales Corp. plums 10,000 individual bags from Mercury Plastics 1,000 Sunkist Fruit Gems 1,000 California Fruit Depo walnut stuffed Medjool dates Bolthouse Farms bottled juices 5,000 Bolthouse Farms carrot snak paks 500 pounds Marko Zaninovich, Inc. green and red grapes 5,000 gallons Thrifty ice cream 6,000 Thrifty ice cream sandwiches 7,500 ice cream cones 7,500 ice cream cups 1,800 pounds chicken

6,500 brownies 6,500 lemon bars 30,000 popcorn bags 20,000 napkins 30,000 coffee cups 1,200 table linens 1,400 serving spoons 250 chafing dishes 50 ovens 4 (80-gallon) kettles 6 refrigerator trucks 1,000 pounds Ballantine Produce Royal Gala apples 1,000 pounds Ballantine Produce Granny Smith apples

10,000 individual servings of Paramount Farms Sunkist almonds 10,000 individual servings of Paramount Farms Sunkist pistachios 2,000 pounds Hronis grapes 1,400 Sierra Produce kiwi 50 pounds Sun World International red and green grapes 500 pounds Kings Canyon Corri Sales Red Ruby grapes 1,000 New Leaf kiwi 10,000 bags for grapes from Sierra Produce

1,000 pounds rice pilaf 750 pounds cut fresh fruit 600 pounds tomato cucumber salad 800 pounds pasta salad 4,000 dinner rolls 25,000 plates 20,000 3-pack serving ware

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Getting There 200+ individual limousine trips 40+ hours of scheduling services 16 vehicles 1 supply truck 550+ gallons of fuel >

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6,000+ miles of travel 26 chauffeurs 4 on-site personnel 40 golf carts Decorations More than 95 tents, pavilions, and canopies 3,000 American and International flags 1,930 tables 15,000 chairs 105 umbrella tables 50 cots 24 park benches 1,000 table numbers 160 gallons of red Snapdragons 392 gallons of white Nemesia Innocense 790 gallons of mixed, violet, and white Impatients 512 gallons of blue Salvia 80 gallons of blue Tapian 230 gallons of yellow Marigolds 130 gallons of red Celosia 244 flats of red Petunias 96 flats of white Petunias 88 flats of blue Petunias 100 flats of yellow dwarf Marigolds

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150 flats of red/white Petunia Picotee 4 fountains 8 (20-foot) flag poles 160 restroom facilities 5,263 lineal feet of chain link screened fencing 250 lineal feet of lattice 983 lineal feet of picket fence 1,500 cut long-stem roses 2,000 newspapers Party Favors 10,000 hand-held American flags 10,000 hand-held fans 10,000 syllabi 10,000 pens 10,000 note pads 10,000 seat cushions Fireworks 1,545 assorted shells Technical 5 (350 kw) generators 2 (200 kw) generators 4 (100 kw) generators 4,000 gallons of diesel fuel State-of-the-art line array sound systems 200 special hearing devices

America’s Premier

8 LED 10 ft. x 14 ft. video walls 1 LED 18 ft. x 30 ft. screen 1,500 outdoor lights 200 dimmers 8 computerized lighting consoles 8 computerized audio consoles 2 fully-equipped TV sports broadcasting trucks Hundreds of feet of truss Dozens of motors and lifts Hundreds of theatrical lighting fixtures 2 follow spots Intricate media interface w/ all systems 15 sportslighters 160 communications radios Clean-Up 500 (33-gallon) trash containers 500 (33-gallon) recycle containers 4 (25-yard) trash dumpsters 6 (40-yard) trash dumpsters 20 (3-yard) trash dumpsters Man Power 100+ technicians 100 cooks 150 media representatives 500 vendor staff 325 community volunteers

One-Day Conference 2010

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Bakersfield Business Conference Speaker Introduction Over the past quarter century, the Bakersfield Business Conference has delivered a wide array of speakers and entertainers who have changed history, entertained millions, and determined the course of world events. This year’s encore presentation promises to be no exception.

We invite you to sit back and relax as you see and hear from this year’s slate of world-class influencers—all here for one day in Bakersfield, California.

America’s Premier One-Day Conference California State University, Bakersfield

Wally Amos

Entrepreneur and Best-Selling Author Today, his name is a household word.

As founder of Famous Amos Cookies in 1975 and father of the gourmet chocolate chip cookie industry, Wally Amos, better known as “Famous Amos,” has used his fame to support educational causes. Wally was National Spokesman for Literacy Volunteers of America from 1979 until 2002 when they merged with Laubach Literacy Council to create ProLiteracy Worldwide.

He now refers to himself as a Literacy Advocate. He is a former Board Member of the National Center for Family Literacy and Communities in Schools. In addition, he serves as Chairman of the Read it Loud! Foundation.

In 1994, he co-founded the Uncle Wally’s Muffin Company which produces a full line of muffins.

Wally Amos has been the recipient of many honors and awards.

He gave the shirt off his back and his battered Panama hat to the Smithsonian Institution’s Business Americana Collection. He has been inducted into the Babson College Academy of Distinguished Entrepreneurs, and he received the Horatio Alger Award, The President’s Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence, and The National Literacy Honors Award.

His most recent venture is Chip & Cookie, with retail stores in Waikiki and in Kailua Town, HI, and an e-Commerce business, www.chipandcookie.com, featuring five flavors of cookies and two chocolate chip cookie plush character dolls, Chip & Cookie,

plus other gift and apparel items created by Christine Harris-Amos. Wally and Christine founded the Read it LOUD! Foundation in 2005 urging parents and caregivers to read aloud to children for at least 10 minutes each day. Ten percent of the net profits realized by Chip & Cookie, LLC will benefit the foundation, an IRS (501)(3C), to support its efforts to promote Children’s Literacy, www.readitloud.org. In August 2006, using Savannah as their pilot city, they launched Read it LOUD! Savannah, a campaign promoting reading aloud to children. Read it LOUD recently partnered with the Library of Congress and the United States Postal Service to launch a national campaign.

Wally is also an author who has written eight books.Over the years, Wally has acted in a number of network sitcoms and appeared on hundreds of interview shows, news programs, educational programs and commercials.

Over 150 million Americans know Wally Amos. His fame is grounded in quality, substance, and a positive attitude.

Bob Beckel

Political Consultant and Co-columnist for USA Today Combining political savvy, campaign experience, and a sharp wit, Bob Beckel has emerged as one of Washington’s leading political analysts. He has a veteran’s perspective from his years in the White House, on Capitol Hill, and leading dozens of election campaigns.

After a political baptism as a college student working for Robert Kennedy’s 1968 campaign, a tour of duty in the Peace Corps, and a successful stint heading up his own consulting firm, Bob joined the federal government in 1977. As a deputy assistant secretary of state in the Carter administration, he steered the controversial Panama Canal Treaties through Congress. He then moved to the White House to head the administration’s effort to press Congress into passing the Mideast and SALT II Treaties.

He resumed his career as a political consultant until Walter Mondale asked him to manage his 1984 campaign for the presidency. As national campaign manager, he oversaw Mondale’s successful race for the Democratic nomination.

He is credited with pulling together the campaign after its defeat in New Hampshire and became known as the man who wrapped the “Where’s the Beef?” slogan around Gary Hart so effectively.

For the past several years, Beckel has had an active consulting practice, and advises his clients on communication strategy, consensus building, and public policy. He is one Borton Petrini, LLP’s

of Washington’s most prolific speakers.

Beckel was a regular guest on CNN’s Crossfire and worked with counterpart Fred Barnes of the Weekly Standard as a senior political analyst for CBS’ This Morning. He has been a contributing columnist for the Los Angeles Times during the last three presidential campaigns, and was a guest host for Larry King Live. He also co-hosted Crossfire Sunday with Lynne Cheney for three years. He also worked with former GOP Chairman Haley Barbour as a political analyst for numerous local and international broadcast outlets for 12 years.

Currently, Mr. Beckel is a graduate professor in advanced political strategy at George Washington University. He is the regular Democratic political analyst for Fox News Channel’s Hannity & Colmes as well as for numerous other shows on Fox Cable. He also appears regularly on broadcast network newscasts, and is a syndicated columnist with Tribune Media Services.

Bakersfield Business Conference

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Donna Brazile

Veteran Political Strategist Veteran Democratic political strategist Donna Brazile is an adjunct professor, author, syndicated columnist, television political commentator, Vice Chair of Voter Registration and Participation at the Democratic National Committee, and former chair of the DNC’s Voting Rights Institute. Last, but never least, she is a native of New Orleans.

Aside from working for the full recovery of her beloved New Orleans, Ms. Brazile’s passion is encouraging young people to vote, to work within the system to strengthen it, and to run for public office.

Ms. Brazile began her political career at the age of nine when she worked to elect a City Council candidate who had promised to build a playground in her neighborhood; the candidate won, the swing set was installed, and a lifelong passion for political progress was ignited. Four decades and innumerable state and local campaigns later, Ms. Brazile has worked on every presidential campaign from 1976 through 2000, when she served as campaign manager for former Vice President Al Gore, becoming the first African-American woman to manage a presidential campaign.

Author of the best-selling memoir Cooking with Grease: Stirring the Pots in American Politics, Ms. Brazile is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University, a syndicated newspaper columnist for United Media, a columnist for Ms. Magazine and O, The Oprah Magazine, an on-air contributor to CNN, and ABC,

where she regularly appears on This Week with Christiane Amanpour.

In August 2009, O, The Oprah Magazine chose Ms. Brazile as one of its 20 “remarkable visionaries” for the magazine’s first-ever O Power List. In addition, she was named among the 100 Most Powerful Women by Washingtonian magazine, Top 50 Women in America by Essence magazine, and received the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s highest award for political achievement. A former member of the board of directors of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, responsible for leading the state’s rebuilding process in the aftermath of two catastrophic hurricanes, Ms. Brazile is the proud recipient of honorary doctorate degrees from Louisiana State University and Xavier University of Louisiana, the only historically Black, Catholic institution of higher education in the United States.

Ms. Brazile is founder and managing director of Brazile & Associates, LLC, a general consulting, grassroots advocacy, and training firm based in Washington, DC.

Robert Bryce

Renowned Author and Journalist Robert Bryce’s articles have appeared in dozens of publications including the Atlantic Monthly, Slate, New York Times, Washington Post, American Conservative, The Nation, Washington Spectator, and The Guardian. His first book, Pipe Dreams: Greed, Ego, and the Death of Enron, received rave reviews and was named one of the best non-fiction books of 2002 by Publishers Weekly. His second book, Cronies: Oil, the Bushes, and the Rise of Texas, America’s Superstate, was published in 2004. His third book, Gusher of Lies: The Dangerous Delusions of “Energy Independence,” published in March 2008, was favorably reviewed by more than 20 media outlets. The American magazine called Gusher of Lies “a strong and much-needed dose of reality.”

Bryce spent 12 years writing for the Austin Chronicle.

He now works as the managing editor of Houston-based magazine Energy Tribune. He is also a contributing writer at the Texas Observer.

He has appeared on dozens of TV and radio shows that have aired on variety of outlets including the BBC, MSNBC, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. In addition, he’s been on CNN’s Inside Politics, PBS’ The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer, NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross, and Talk of the Nation. He has been writing about the American energy business since 1989. An apiarist, he

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lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Lorin, their three children, and a hyperactive bird dog named Biscuit.

One-Day Conference 2010

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One-Day Conference 2010

Angela “Bay” Buchanan

Former Treasurer of the United States, Author, and Political Analyst Angela “Bay” Buchanan began her political career as the national treasurer of Ronald Reagan’s presidential campaigns in 1980 and 1984. This position catapulted her into a distinguished career beginning in 1981 when President Reagan appointed her to be treasurer of the United States.

At the age of 32, she was the youngest person to hold that position since it was established in 1775.

Buchanan served as the campaign chairman for all three of her brother Pat Buchanan’s presidential campaigns. In 2008, she served as a senior advisor to Mitt Romney. From September of 1996 through August of 1999, she co-anchored Equal Time, a political talk show initially on CNBC, then MSNBC. In addition, she worked as a political analyst for Good Morning America throughout the general election in 1992. From 1996 to 1997, Buchanan hosted a two-hour radio talk show program covering current events. In the summer of 1996, George magazine recognized her as one of the top 20 political women in the nation. The Clare Boothe Luce Policy Institute named Bay Buchanan the 2007 Woman of the Year.

Currently, Buchanan is a political analyst often seen on CBS’ Morning Show, as well as on CNN, MSNBC, and FOX News. She writes a regular column for Human Events Online; is the president of The American Cause, an educational foundation dedicated to advancing traditional con-

servative issues; and co-chairman of Team America, a PAC dedicated to opposing amnesty for illegal aliens.

Her first book, The Extreme Makeover of Hillary Rodham Clinton was published in 2007.

A native of Washington, DC, Buchanan has a masters degree in mathematics from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and has further studies at several universities, including the University of New South Wales in Australia. In 1981, she received an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree from Samford University. She lives in Virginia and has three sons and two grandchildren.

Laura Bush

Former First Lady of the United States Laura Bush has consistently been ranked as one of the most popular first ladies by public opinion polls. One reason seems clear: Mrs. Bush fulfilled her role as First Lady of the United States with modesty, grace, and an unwavering commitment to encourage education and literacy at home and acknowledgment of woman’s rights across the globe.

As First Lady, Mrs. Bush impressed the world when she presented the President’s Weekly Radio Address in 2001. The radio address was a key moment in the Bush administration because it demanded the world acknowledge the plight of women and children suffering under the Taliban and underscored the administration’s commitment to fostering democracy and individual rights around the globe.

A former teacher and librarian, Mrs. Bush convened in 2001, a Summit on Early Childhood Cognitive Development, providing a forum for prominent scholars and educators to share research on the best ways for parents and caregivers to prepare children for lifelong learning. She is an enthusiastic proponent of teacher recruitment programs such as Teach for America, The New Teacher Project, and Troops to Teachers.

As the leader of former George W. Bush’s Helping America’s Youth initiative, Mrs. Bush has listened closely to the concerns of young people, parents, and community leaders throughout the country. She draws attention to proven programs that help children avoid such risky behaviors as drug Borton Petrini, LLP’s

and alcohol use and early sexual activity and violence. She also highlights the need for a caring adult role model in every child’s life.

In September 2001, Mrs. Bush joined the Library of Congress to launch the first National Book Festival. The Festival has grown each year, drawing more than 120,000 book-lovers from across the nation to Washington, DC in 2008. In 1995, Mrs. Bush established the Texas Book Festival, and it continues to thrive today. In 2006, Mrs. Bush hosted leaders from around the world for the White House Conference on Advancing Global Literacy, showcasing successful, culturally aware literacy programs from a diversity of countries.

Mrs. Bush continues to be actively involved in issues of national and global concern today. She currently serves as Honorary Ambassador for the United Nations Literacy Decade.

Bakersfield Business Conference

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Capitol Steps Political Satire Troupe

Twenty-five years ago, the Capitol Steps began as a group of Senate staffers who set out to satirize the very people and places that employed them. In the years that followed, many of the Steps ignored the conventional wisdom (“Don’t quit your day job!”), and although not all of the current members of the Steps are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of 18 Congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experience.

Since they began, the Capitol Steps have recorded 26 albums, including their latest, I’m So Indicted. They’ve been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS, and can be heard four times a year on National Public Radio stations nationwide during their Politics Takes a Holiday radio specials.

The Capitol Steps were born in December 1981 when some staffers for Senator Charles Percy were planning entertainment for a Christmas party. Ronald Reagan was President when the Steps began, so co-founders Elaina Newport, Bill Strauss, and Jim Aidala figured that if entertainers could become politicians, then politicians could become entertainers! Their first idea was to stage a nativity play, but in the whole Congress they couldn’t find three wise men or a virgin! So, they decided to dig into the headlines of the day, and created song parodies and skits which conveyed a special brand of satirical humor that was as popular in Peoria as it was on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Most cast members have worked on Capitol Hill; some for Democrats, some for Republicans, and others for politicians who firmly straddle the fence. No matter who holds office, there’s never a shortage of material. Says Elaina Newport, “Typically the Republicans goof up, and the Democrats party. Then the Democrats goof up and the Republicans party. That’s what we call the two-party system.”

Although the Capitol Steps are based in Washington, DC, most of their shows are out-of-town or for out-of-town audiences, whether it’s the National Welding Supply Association, a university audience, high schoolers, or state legislators. In fact, the Capitol Steps have performed for the last five Presidents (six, if you include Hillary). The only complaints the Steps seem to get are from politicians and personalities who are not included in the program!

No matter who’s in the headlines, the Capitol Steps are equal opportunity offenders.

John Chachas

Investment Banker and Business Leader John Chachas is a third generation Nevadan who has specialized in providing financial advice to companies in the media and digital industries. On June 8, 2010 he lost a race as a Republican in the primary for the Nevada U.S. Senate seat currently held by Majority Leader Harry Reid, but was acknowledged by Nevada’s political reporters as the clear intellectual force in the Nevada Senate race. Chachas has declared his intention to return to the political field in 2012.

John and his two brothers were raised near their family’s cattle ranch in Ely, Nevada. His grandfather, a Greek immigrant, acquired the ranch in 1942, which the family owned for 40 years. He attended public school where he was the editor of his high school newspaper and an avid skier and horseman. During college he developed an interest in public policy and served as a Washington intern for former Nevada Senator Paul Laxalt.

Chachas received his undergraduate degree from Columbia University and an MBA from Harvard Business School, after which he returned to a career in banking giving financial advice to managements and boards of leading American companies.

In his 24 year business career, he has earned a reputation as a smart, creative problem solver and Chachas is regarded as a leading banker to newspaper and broadcasting companies. As a Managing Director at First Boston (now Credit Suisse) and Lazard Freres & Co., John and his partners ran those firms’

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media and digital content practices. His work has included giving advice to leading content companies such as The Walt Disney Company, Hearst Corporation, and Clear Channel Communications, among others. He is a published author on changes affecting the American newspaper industry and advised eight such companies in 2009 at the depth of the media recession, including The Tribune Company, The Journal Register Company, the McClatchy Company, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune, among others.

As a private investor, Chachas acquired (in conjunction with other investors) a leading San Francisco based luxury retailer, Gump’s San Francisco, where he continues to serve on the Board. John and his family have active Nevada business interests in gold, silver and water in northern Nevada.

He met his wife, Diane, at Columbia University in 1984.

They have been married for 20 years and have three children and reside in New York City and Ely, Nevada.

One-Day Conference 2010

Richard Cheney

46th Vice President of the United States For over 40 years, Richard Cheney has served at the highest levels of U.S. Government and private sector. As White House Chief of Staff in the aftermath of Watergate and America’s withdrawal from Vietnam, Wyoming’s Congressman and a member of the House Republican leadership during the Regan years, Secretary of Defense as the Cold War ended and America defeated Iraq in Desert Storm, CEO of Halliburton, and Vice President of the United States on 9/11 at the dawn of the Global War on Terror, Cheney has participated in many of the events that have shaped our nation for over four decades.

Widely acknowledged as the most powerful and influential Vice President ever, Richard Cheney is an historic figure. Domestically, he was pivotal in reorganizing the government to defend the homeland, negotiating the Bush Administration’s tax cuts, chairing the Energy Task Force, and overseeing the annual federal budget process.

Seven years after arriving in Washington, D.C. in 1968 as a graduate student, Cheney became one of the youngest White House Chiefs of Staff in history. Cheney oversaw the Ford presidential campaign in 1976, and then returned home to Wyoming and was elected as Wyoming’s lone Congressman in 1978. Cheney served as chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee, the Republican Conference, and as Republican Whip. He was also the ranking Republican on the Iran-Contra committee, and served for over four years as a member of the House Permanent Select Com-

mittee on Intelligence. In 1989, he was nominated

by President George Bush to serve as Secretary of Defense and was confirmed unanimously by the United States Senate.

In his four years at the Pentagon, Cheney helped to lead American forces to victory in Operation Just Cause in Panama, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf.

He also oversaw the restructuring of the U.S. military following the breakup of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. In 1991, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In the mid-1990s, Cheney became Chairman and CEO of Halliburton, one of the world’s foremost energy firms as well as an engineering and construction company with 100,000 employees in 130 countries around the world.

He brings a unique perspective to the economic and geopolitical challenges of our time and is unequaled as a spokesman for a strong America, one that remains the best hope of those who suffer and live in fear and the strongest force for good the world has ever known.

Lynne Cheney Former Second Lady of the United States and Bestselling Author Called “the really indispensable Cheney” by columnist George Will, Lynne Cheney enlivens audiences and lights up TV screens while arguing for the need to teach America’s story fully and fairly. As chairman of the Nation Endowment for the Humanities and second lady, she brought this message to audiences across the country.

With a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, Mrs. Cheney also speaks forcefully on the importance of nurturing a diversity of viewpoints on college campuses, as well as in the mainstream media. Through speeches and appearances on radio and television—including a stint as co-host on Crossfire Sunday—she has established her identity as an incisive commentator on culture and politics.

“A riveting book,” talk-show host Mike Gallagher called Lynne Cheney’s Blue Skies, No Fences. “A delightful memoir of more innocent days,” observed Kathryn Lopez of National Review Online. Lynne Cheney’s bestselling children’s books, including America, A Patriotic Primer and We the People have also garnered wide praise, with reviewers noting their careful research and compelling presentation. Cheney is no stranger to controversy, but as Sanford Pinkser, reviewing Telling the Truth in The Philadelphia Inquirer, wrote “Even those who disagree with [Cheney] will find much more to debate than to easily dismiss.”

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Lynne Cheney’s pamphlets, books, and editorial pieces have won her a wide following among those who yearn for a reinvigoration of common sense and patriotism in our schools, colleges, and national life. Currently a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, her views on subjects ranging from the state of our schools to the condition of our politics gain authority not only from her deep knowledge of history, but from her experiences at the highest levels of our national life.

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Dr. Joe Clark

Visionary High School Principal and Education Reformer In September 1982, during the first day of class at Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey, a student was stabbed.

In 1983, things would be different. The school’s new principal, Joe Clark, would be the reason why.

On a single day during his first week at Eastside, Clark expelled 300 students for fighting, vandalism, drug possession, profanity, or abusing teachers. He explains, “If there is no discipline, there is anarchy. Good citizenship demands attention to responsibilities as well as to rights.”

A former Army drill instructor, Joe Clark sees education as a mission. He worked while attending high school to support his mother and siblings. He then went on to get his BA from William Paterson College and a master’s degree from Seton Hall University. He also received an honorary Doctor of Philosophy from the US Sports Academy. The feisty and polysyllabicspeaker, Clark was made for the helm of Eastside High. After two years under his leadership, the formerly raucous institution was declared a model school by New Jersey’s governor.

Clark himself was named one of the nation’s ten “Principals of Leadership” in 1986.

Clark won acclaim for his achievements in a Time cover story, two 60 Minutes profiles, and appearances on television news and talk shows all over the world. President Reagan named him a model educator and offered him a White House post as a policy advisor. He was the subject of the Warner

Brothers film, Lean On Me, with two-time Oscar nominee Morgan Freeman playing him. After seven years as principal of Eastside High, he resigned in 1990 and began making speeches on the lecture circuit.

In August 1995, he was appointed director of Essex County Detention House, a juvenile Detention center in Newark, New Jersey.

During his six years as the center’s director, he continued his challenging work to bring change to the community that brought him up.

His message is one of pride in self. He believes that “Every day, pride in self and school must be reinforced. Every day, the value of academics must be demonstrated.” And every day, Joe Clark demonstrates, through his own shining example, how commitment to youth can make America’s future leaders better citizens and better people.

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One-Day Conference 2010

Eleanor Clift

Newsweek Contributing Editor and Popular Political Analyst Eleanor Clift became a contributing editor to Newsweek in September 1994. She writes on the Washington power structure, the influence of women in politics, and other issues.

She is currently assigned to follow the jockeying over policy and politics in the Democratic-controlled Congress, and the emerging contenders for the 2008 presidential nomination in both the Republican and Democratic parties. Clift also writes a weekly column on Newsweek.com entitled “Capitol Letter” where she analyzes the political news of the week.

Formerly Newsweek’s White House correspondent, Clift also served as congressional and political correspondent for six years. She was a key member of the magazine’s 1992 election team, following the campaign of Bill Clinton from its start to inauguration day. In June 1992 she was named deputy Washington bureau chief.

As a reporter in Newsweek’s Atlanta bureau, Clift covered Jimmy Carter’s bid for the presidency. She followed Carter to Washington to become Newsweek’s White House correspondent, a position she held until 1985. Clift began her career as a secretary to Newsweek’s National Affairs editor in New York. She was one of the first women at the magazine to move from secretary to reporter.

Clift left Newsweek briefly in 1985 to serve as White House correspondent for the Los Angeles Times. She returned to Newsweek the following year to cover the Iran-Contra scandal.

Clift is a regular panelist on the syndicated talk show, The McLaughlin Group, and a political analyst for the FOX News Network.

She is also co-chair of the board of the International Women’s Media Foundation.

Clift and her late husband, Tom Brazaitis, who was a columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, wrote two books together, War Without Bloodshed: The Art of Politics and Madam President: Shattering the Last Glass Ceiling. Madam President is available in paperback. Clift’s most recent book, Founding Sisters is about the passage of the 19th amendment giving women the vote.

Herb Cohen

Internationally Renowned Negotiator and Author For more than three decades, Herb Cohen has been a practicing negotiator, intimately enmeshed in some of the world’s headline dramas, from hostile takeovers to hostage negotiations. His clients have included business executives, entrepreneurs, sports and theatrical agents plus large corporations as well as governmental agencies, such as the Department of State, FBI, CIA, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and the U.S. Department of Justice.

While serving as an adviser to Presidents Carter and Reagan on combating terrorism, he was embroiled in the Iranian Hostage Crisis and credited with helping to shape the government’s response to the skyjacking of TWA Flight 847 and the seizure of the Achille Lauro. His input and advice has been sought by the White House on a myriad of problems such as the Gulf Crisis, the seizure of the Japanese Embassy in Lima, Peru, and the Camp David Mideast Peace Talks.

Unlike many theorists, he was actively involved in the negotiations that settled both the NFL players’ strike and the General Motors Chevymobile litigation and also participated in the START Arms Control Negotiations with the Soviet Union.

Herb Cohen’s analysis, insights, and humorous view of many of these high-level happenings have appeared in many international publications, and he himself has been the subject of articles in Time magazine, People, The Economist, The New Yorker, and Esquire, among many others Borton Petrini, LLP’s

He is the author of You Can Negotiate Anything, which was on the New York Times best-seller list for almost one year and has been translated into twenty-six languages.

Finally after two decades, Negotiate This! By Caring But Not T-H-A-T Much was published by Warner Books in midSeptember 2003 to rave reviews.

During the Cold War, Herb Cohen served with the U.S. Army, 14th Armored Cavalry Regiment on the East-West Border in Bad Kissingen, Germany.

While attending university and law school he worked in many business and governmental organizations and ultimately became a faculty member at the University of Michigan’s Graduate School of Business.

He has been the only outsider ever to address the Attorney General’s Annual Conference of all the United States Attorneys. In addition, he has spoken to the U.S. Attorney’s Offices of the Southern District of NY, in Chicago and the Northern District of California.

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Tina Dupart

Entrepreneur and Financial Advisor Tina Dupart was born in San Francisco, California. Her first job was in the entertainment industry, where she assumed the persona of “Bingo,” one of the four fleecy, costume characters of the “Banana Splits,” a zany group produced by Hanna/Barbera who did public performances and commercials for Channel 44 in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Holding with the costume theme, Tina later graduated from the University of California at Davis with a B.S. Degree in Costume Design. Her education landed her a sales representative position in Texas for Koret of California, an arm of Levi Strauss.

Tina’s career made an about face and over the next 10 years she held management positions in the print industry where she earned several industry and international design awards including the coveted, Maggie Award, for the “Best Redesign for a High Tech Publication” and the “Best Promotion Brochure.”

When it was Tina’s turn to research a young company to present to her women’s stock club as a prospective stock investment, she discovered Cisco Systems. Cisco was a high tech company that was a young startup with hardly a track record but with very promising fundamentals. In fact, the fundamentals were so profound that she decided within minutes to find a contact within Cisco Systems and call for an interview.

During her time in the silicon valley, Tina wore many hats working on product launches, marketing campaigns, training programs, and strategic partnering programs. One of her proj-

ects won the CEO, “Super Team Award” given out personally by John Chambers, CEO of Cisco Systems.

Life was going along fine for Tina in her high tech career until the year 2001 when the “Dot Com Bust” happened. The “Silicon Valley” started laying off thousands of employees. Bonuses were eliminated for those that survived the cuts. Tina feared that both she and her husband, who also worked in high tech, were next to get laid off. This fear ignited something in Tina that can only be described as a burning passion to be in total control of her purse strings.

Tina spent the next 5 years reading everything she could get her hands on about building true wealth, and in year 2006, rather than being laid off at her high tech job in corporate America, she gave her job the pink slip in order to become an entrepreneur.

Today she teaches others a simple way to build residual income that can be passed down in their families from generation to generation.

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Full Service • Free Internet/wifi • Meeting/Conference Rooms Centrally Located • 24-Hour Shuttle

661.323.1900 801 Truxtun Avenue • Bakersfield, CA www.bakersfieldmarriott.com One-Day Conference 2010

Newt Gingrich

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich is well-known as the architect of the “Contract with America” that led the Republican Party to victory in 1994 by capturing the majority in the U.S. House for the first time in forty years. After he was elected Speaker, he disrupted the status quo by moving power out of Washington and back to the American people. Under his leadership, Congress passed welfare reform, passed the first balanced budget in a generation and passed the first tax cut in sixteen years. In addition, the Congress restored funding to strengthen our defense and intelligence capabilities, an action later lauded by the bipartisan 9/11 Commission.

But there is a lot more to Gingrich than these remarkable achievements. As an author, Gingrich has published twenty books including 10 fiction and non-fiction New York Times bestsellers.

Gingrich and his wife, Callista, host and produce documentaries, including Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny, We Have the Power, and Rediscovering God in America.

Widely recognized for his commitment to a better system of health for all Americans, his leadership helped save Medicare from bankruptcy, prompted FDA reform to help the seriously ill, and initiated a new focus on research, prevention, and wellness.

A strong advocate of volunteerism, Gingrich has long championed the positive impact every individual can have on society. He has raised millions of dollars for charity, donating both time and money to a wide array of causes, including Habitat for Humanity,

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United Cerebral Palsy, the American Cancer Society, and ZooAtlanta.

Gingrich was first elected to Congress in 1978 where he served the Sixth District of Georgia for twenty years. In 1995, he was elected Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives where he served until 1999.

The Washington Times has called him “the indispensable leader” and Time magazine, in naming him Man of the Year for 1995, said, “Leaders make things possible. Exceptional leaders make them inevitable. Newt Gingrich belongs in the category of the exceptional.”

His experiences as the son of a career soldier convinced him at an early age to dedicate his life to his country and to the protection of freedom. Realizing the importance of understanding the past in order to protect the future, he immersed himself in the study of history, receiving his Bachelor’s degree from Emory University and Master’s and Doctorate in Modern European History from Tulane University. He resides in Virginia with his wife, Callista.

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Rudy Giuliani

Former Mayor of New York Rudolph W. Giuliani, the former Mayor of New York City, was born in 1944 in Brooklyn, New York.

After joining the office of the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Rudy Giuliani rose quickly through the ranks, becoming the Chief of the Narcotics Unit at age 29. After the inauguration of Ronald Reagan in 1981, Giuliani was named Associate Attorney General, the third highest position in the U.S. Department of Justice.

In 1983, President Reagan appointed Rudy Giuliani as the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York. Giuliani spearheaded successful efforts against organized crime, white-collar criminals, drug dealers and corrupt elected officials.

In 1993, Rudy Giuliani was elected Mayor of the City of New York.

Campaigning on the slogan “One City, One Standard,” he focused on reducing crime, reforming welfare, and improving the quality of life.

When Mayor Giuliani took office, one of every seven New Yorkers was on welfare. Mayor Giuliani implemented the largest and most successful welfare-to-work initiative in the country, turning welfare offices into Job Centers and reduced welfare rolls by 640,000—nearly 60 percent.

On September 11, 2001, America suffered the worst attack in its history when terrorists crashed planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Thousands of New Yorkers were killed, including hundreds of members of the city’s uniformed services, who rushed to the scene to lead the heroic rescue of tens of thousands of people.

Having narrowly missed being crushed when the Towers fell, Mayor

Giuliani immediately began leading the recovery of the city as it faced its darkest hour. Mayor Giuliani was widely lauded for his steady hand during challenging times. He was named “Person of the Year” by Time magazine, knighted by the Queen of England, dubbed “Rudy the Rock” by French President Jacques Chirac, and former first lady Nancy Reagan presented him with the Ronald Reagan Presidential Freedom Award. Limited by New York City law to two terms as mayor, Rudy Giuliani founded Giuliani Partners in January, 2002, quickly establishing the professional services firm as a leader in emergency preparedness, public safety, leadership during crises, and financial management. Mayor Giuliani is also a Partner in the law firm of Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP. Mayor Giuliani recently ran for the Republican nomination for President of the United States. During his campaign, he galvanized the national debate on such critical issues as national security, education, energy independence, healthcare, and the economy. The policy commitments Mayor Giuliani made to the American people remain vitally important to America’s future.

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One-Day Conference 2010

Mayor Harvey L. Hall Mayor of the City of Bakersfield

Next year, 2011, will mark the 40th Anniversary of the ambulance company founded by Bakersfield’s Mayor, Harvey L. Hall. As a nearly life-long member of the Bakersfield community, his roots are firmly planted in Bakersfield. He has a passion for the people, culture, and history of Bakersfield, and is committed to promoting growth, prosperity, and opportunity for business.

Having successfully built Hall Ambulance, Hall understands business, and the challenges building a thriving company presents. While hard work and long hours were vital in building his business, he never lost sight of the good fortune that contributed to his success, and as a result, determined to run for Mayor in 1999 under the slogan, “Unity in the Community.” He handily defeated a field of nine other candidates in the March 2000 election. During his swearing-in ceremony on January 2, 2001, Mayor Hall made clear his goal with the statement: “Our city is one of greatness, and it will be my goal everyday to make every day better than the day before and to try and make this city the best city in America.”

As Bakersfield’s mayor, Hall has initiated monthly Mayor’s Freeway Cleanups, is active with the Keep Bakersfield Beautiful Committee and the annual Great American Cleanup.

His entire Mayor’s salary is donated to the Kern Community Foundation for the purpose of funding scholarships for local students attending local colleges or CSUB.

In 2010 Mayor Hall was honored to be selected as the recipient of the prestigious John Brock—Community Service Award. The award acknowledges a lifetime spent serving, and giving back to the community that has been a partner in Mayor Hall’s success.

Mayor Hall is Bakersfield’s 25th Mayor. He was re-elected in 2004 and 2008, and is presently serving his third term. He is only the second Mayor in our city’s history to serve three terms. Bakersfield’s population has dramatically increased over the last twenty years, more than doubling from 161,670 in 1989 to 338,952 in 2010, making it one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.

This ever-changing face of the city presents Mayor Hall abundant opportunities to promote commerce while encouraging citizens to rise to meet the challenges of the future with determination, dedication and tenacity. He staunchly believes that Bakersfield’s tomorrows will be better than today.

Mayor Hall is married with four children and four grandchildren.

Goldie Hawn

Academy Award-Winning Actress/Producer Known as Hollywood’s sweetheart, Goldie Hawn’s Academy Award-winning roles and lasting impressions have gained her adoring audiences worldwide. A woman of many talents, Hawn is not only a gifted actor, but also a creative director, savvy producer, flourishing entrepreneur, respected CEO, best-selling author and loving parent. Managing to balance her life with such extensive responsibilities, she understands the importance of appreciating the simple joys of a hectic lifestyle.

Perseverant by nature, Hawn made her behind-the-scenes debut in 1980—the beginnings of over two decades of entrepreneurial success. She has produced critically acclaimed films such as Overboard, My Blue Heaven, and Private Benjamin, and has most recently starred in movies such as The Out-ofTowners and The First Wives Club. Today, Hawn is a principal in a production entity created with Kurt Russell and children Oliver Hudson and Golden Globe winner Kate Hudson.

Hawn’s many accomplishments illustrate that she has a solid grasp on what it takes to be an effective leader. An advocate that our strengths come from within, and a firm believer that we are responsible for our own happiness, Hawn has dedicated herself to enlightening others and encouraging the interconnectedness of society. Drawing her wisdom from a unique lifetime of experiences, Hawn maintains that complete wellness requires a balance of mind, body, and spirit.

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Believing that laughter is the best medicine and that humor is highly infectious, Hawn has created the “Traveling Museum of Laughter.” With hopes to bring smiles to faces nationwide, she teaches that all are capable of healing themselves by embracing the joys in life. Hawn’s contagious energy and enthusiasm have already begun to make a difference, as she continues to develop her Hawn Foundation.

Dedicated to creating a more peaceful and tolerant world by supporting research efforts and teaching programs targeting children, the Hawn Foundation brings promise to the younger generation and its future.

With endless optimism, Hawn welcomes a new stage in her life. In her book, Goldie: A Lotus Grows in the Mud, Hawn shares her positive attitude towards life. She will not only continue to touch her own generation, but will inspire ones to come. Hawn’s gracious appeal has earned her respect not only as an actress, but also as a grounded and approachable human being.

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Gary Johnson

Former Governor of New Mexico Gary Johnson is a Republican and serves as the Honorary Chairman of the Our America Initiative. He has been an outspoken advocate for efficient government, lower taxes, winning the war on drug abuse, protection of civil liberties, revitalization of the economy and promoting entrepreneurship and privatization.

He was born January 1, 1953 and attended the University of New Mexico at Albuquerque from 1971 to 1975, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree. While in college, Gary Johnson earned money as a door-to-door handyman. His successes in this area led to his own construction business, Big J Enterprises, which was founded in 1976. Johnson grew the company into a multi-million dollar corporation that employed over 1,000 people in 1994. When he sold Big J in 1999, no employee lost his job and the company remains very successful to this day.

In 1994, Johnson was elected Governor of New Mexico despite having little political experience. He defeated the incumbent Democratic Governor Bruce King in the general election by 50 percent to 40 percent as well as a former Republican Governor in the Republican primary election.

In 1998, Johnson was re-elected as governor, defeating Democratic Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez by a 55 percent to 45 percent margin.

As Governor of New Mexico, Johnson was known for his common-sense business approach to governing. He eliminated New Mexico’s budget deficit, cut the rate of growth in

state government in half and privatized half of the state prisons. Johnson also shifted state Medicaid to managed care (which led to better healthcare by creating a statewide healthcare network that previously did not exist and which saved money) and reduced state employees by over 1,000, with no firings. During his term, New Mexico experienced the longest period without a tax increase in the state’s history.

While in office, Governor Johnson vetoed 750 bills (which was more than all the vetoes of the other 49 Governors in the country at the time.) By New Mexico State Constitution, Gary Johnson could not run for a third consecutive term as governor. He currently lives in New Mexico and has remained very active, competing in numerous athletic competitions. He is an avid skier, adventurer, and bicyclist who abstains from alcohol.

In 2003, he climbed Mount Everest. Johnson was raised Lutheran and throughout his life has ordered his life according to spiritual principles. He has two grown children.

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One-Day Conference 2010

Rich Little

Legendary Impressionist and Comedian Infamous for his skewing of political figures, Little has charmed, amused, annoyed, and lampooned politicians from here to his native Canada. A master mimic of over 200 voices, Little continues to impress in Atlantic City, Las Vegas, Reno, Hawaii, Chicago, New York, and London.

Some of his favorite current stars are Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Jack Nicholson, and Clint Eastwood.

“They’re easy to do,” he says. “They are larger than life.”

Little says, “an impression is what you think a person sounds like. It could be an exaggeration or a cartoon. It’s your impression.

I think of an impersonation as more of an exact copy. Knowing the person personally is not important; it’s knowing the speech patterns and mannerisms [in order] to imitate the person the way the public sees him.” It took him seven years to perfect Frank Sinatra, but only several minutes to mimic Dr. Ruth.

While working as a disc jockey and talk show host, for one April Fools Day marathon he had “Jimmy Durante” emcee the morning show; “James Mason” was a rock ‘n’ roll deejay; and “Elvis Presley” hosted an afternoon program. Like the infamous 1939 broadcast of War of the Worlds, 500 autograph-hungry Elvis-believing fans besieged the station, thinking the King was really there.

While still in his early 20s, Little was “discovered” in the United States. His friend, singer Mel Torme, then on the musical team of CBS’ The Judy Garland Show, asked him to make a

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tape. Instead of the usual impressions, he did Fred MacMurray, Dana Andrews, James Mason and Van Heflin, “the kinds of people nobody did.”

Garland thought it was “great” and Little was signed for the show.

He was named “Comedy Star of the Year” by the American Guild of Variety Artists. The perpetrator of nine comedy albums and three HBO comedy specials, Rich Little’s Christmas Carol with “W.C. Fields” as Scrooge, “Humphrey Bogart” as one of the ghosts, and “Paul Lynde” as Bob Cratchit won an Emmy, among other awards.

Over the years Rich Little has been active with children’s charities and he was co-host of the Canadian division of the Children’s Miracle Network. He was inducted into the Miami Children’s Hospital International Pediatrics Hall of Fame for his tireless efforts in fundraising on behalf of children. In June of 1998 Rich Little added his star to the Canadian Walk of Fame to go along with his current star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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Robert Loewen

President of the Lincoln Club of Orange County Robert Loewen is the President of the Lincoln Club of Orange County, where he has been a member for 20 years. He has served on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors of the Lincoln Club for more than ten years.

A passionate advocate for the right of workers to choose their own political agenda, in 1996 Mr. Loewen cast an early vote in the Lincoln Club’s Legislative Committee to fund the first polling for what became Proposition 226 on the 1998 ballot. Proposition 226 would have prohibited unions from obtaining political funding through employee payroll deductions without the employee’s express written consent. Since that time, Mr. Loewen has been an active writer and speaker on the subject of the political power of public employee unions.

An attorney licensed in California since 1975, Mr. Loewen is a member of a prominent international law firm in its 85lawyer Irvine, California office. He specializes in business litigation with an emphasis on environmental and appellate cases and is often consulted on constitutional issues concerning personal freedom.

Mr. Loewen received his bachelor of arts degree from Pomona College in 1970. He graduated first in his class from the University of Southern California School of Law in 1975, where he served as Executive Editor of Lead Articles for the Southern California Law Review and was a member of the Order of the Coif. Following law school, Mr. Loewen served

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as a law clerk to Justice Byron R. White at the United States Supreme Court and for Judge Walter Ely at the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

Mr. Loewen serves on the Board of Directors of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation of Orange County, the Board and Executive Committee of the Lincoln Club of Orange County, the Board of Visitors of Chapman Law School, and is a member of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society of the United Way of Orange County. He lives in Laguna Beach, California with his wife of 38 years, and they have three grown children.

One-Day Conference 2010

Kevin McCarthy United States Congressman

Congressman Kevin McCarthy was born in Bakersfield, California, and is a fourth-generation Kern County resident. He was first elected to represent the 22nd District of California in the United States House of Representatives in November 2006, and has focused his work in Congress to represent his constituents from California’s 22nd District in Congress. In November 2008, he was reelected to his second term.

For the 111th Congress, Republican Whip, Eric Cantor, appointed McCarthy to serve in the House Leadership as the Chief Deputy Republican Whip, the highest appointed position in the House Republican Conference.

Congressman McCarthy also serves on the Financial Services Committee and was reappointed to the House Administration Committee, where he serves as the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Elections.

Congressman’s McCarthy’s rise in leadership has not gone unnoticed. Newsweek included a quote in their November 2008 magazine calling McCarthy one of the GOP’s “most persuasive compelling members.”

Roll Call newspaper named Congressman McCarthy the 110th Congress’ “Rookie of the Year.” Additionally, early in the 110th Congress, McCarthy was named by the Weekly Standard as one of three “Young Guns of

the House GOP,” and was dubbed “the strategist” among the three up and coming leaders in the House.

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Bakersfield Business Conference

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Sarah Palin

Former Alaskan Governor and 2008 Vice-Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin first made history on December 4, 2006 when she was sworn in as the first female governor of Alaska. In August 2008, Senator John McCain tapped Palin to serve as his vice-presidential running mate in his presidential campaign, making her the first woman to run on the Republican Party’s presidential ticket. Many were introduced to Palin for the first time after her selection as McCain’s vice-presidential running mate, but Palin has a long record of achievement and experience in public office. Prior to her election as Governor, Palin served two terms on the Wasilla City Council and two terms as the mayor of Wasilla.

During her tenure, she reduced property tax levels while increasing services and made Wasilla a business-friendly environment, drawing in new industry.

Under her leadership as Governor, Alaska invested $5 billion in state savings, overhauled education funding and protected Alaska’s natural resources. She created Alaska’s Petroleum Systems Integrity Office to provide oversight and maintenance of oil and gas equipment, facilities, and infrastructure, and the Climate Change Subcabinet to prepare a climate change strategy for Alaska.

Palin is past chair of the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, a multistate government agency that promotes the conservation and efficient recovery of domestic oil and

natural gas resources while protecting health, safety and the environment. She also served as chair of the National Governors Association (NGA) Natural Resources Committee, which was charged with pursuing legislation to ensure state needs are considered as federal policy is formulated in the areas of agriculture, energy, environmental protection and natural resource management.

Sarah Heath Palin arrived in Alaska with her family in 1964, when her parents came to teach school in Skagway.

She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications-Journalism from the University of Idaho in 1987. She is married to Todd Palin, who is a lifelong Alaskan, worked as a production operator on the North Slope and is a fourtime champion of the Iron Dog, the world’s longest snow machine race. They have five children.

She is the author of Going Rogue: An American Life, an instant best-seller, which was released in November of 2009.

Tony Plana

Award-winning Star of Ugly Betty and Director of Stage and Screen Tony Plana was educated at Loyola-Marymount University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree through the Honors Program in Literature and Theater Arts, graduating magna cum laude. He received his professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England.

Plana was one of the stars of the hit ABC series, Ugly Betty.

He played Ignacio Suarez, Betty’s father.

Plana also starred as the widowed, Mexican-American patriarch, Roberto Santiago, in Showtime’s landmark, groundbreaking hit series Resurrection Boulevard for which he has received 2001 and 2002 ALMA award nominations for best actor.

Having co-directed and co-produced the film A Million To Juan with Paul Rodriguez, Plana celebrated his solo directorial debut in December 2000 with The Princess and the Barrio Boy. He directed several episodes of Nickelodeon’s hit series, The Brothers Garcia, receiving a HUMANITAS award nomination and winning the Imagen Award for its third season finale, “Don’t Judge a Book by its Cover.”

Plana is also the co-founder and executive artistic director of the East L.A. Classic Theatre, a group comprised primarily of Hispanic American theatre professionals.

Through the East L.A. Classic Theatre, Plana has developed a unique and innovative literacy program called Beyond Borders. It is designed to enable students to expand their edu-

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cational horizons and academic achievements by moving beyond their personal, cultural, and vocational borders.

As an actor Plana has starred in more than 60 feature films, including JFK, Nixon, Primal Fear, The Rookie, Silver Strand, and Picking Up the Pieces with Woody Allen. He has portrayed leading roles in four critically acclaimed television series: Veronica Claire for Lifetime, Bakersfield P.D. for FOX and Steven Bocco’s Total Security and City of Angels for ABC. He is the recipient of two Nosotros Golden Eagle awards for outstanding work in film and television, as well as five Los Angeles Dramalogue Awards for Theatre. In addition to his extensive involvement in the media arts, he also serves on various boards including the American Red Cross, the Mariachi Heritage Foundation, the East L.A. Community Youth Center, and the Young Musicians Foundation created

by Henry Mancini.

Plana is the proud father of Alejandro and Isabel and has been happily married to actress Ada Maris.

One-Day Conference 2010

Cathy Rigby

Legendary Olympic Gymnast and Iconic Actress of Stage and Screen As legend has it, the late, great Mary Martin, after a particularly grueling Broadway performance of Peter Pan, collapsed on her dressing-room sofa and groaned, “You have to be an acrobat to play this part.” Enter Cathy Rigby, the onetime Olympic gymnast who followed in the elfin footsteps of Martin. Rigby reveled in her aerial role. She won a coveted Best Actress Tony nomination and rave reviews for her performance.

Born premature and sickly, Rigby turned to gymnastics as an escape from severe shyness and an alcoholic father. From the start, she knew that this was the arena where she would shine.

In 1968, the 15-year-old performed at the Summer Olympics in Mexico City, earning the highest U.S. gymnastic scores.

Throughout her athletic career, she earned 12 international medals, including eight golds.

However, the 15-year-old grew up. Commentators and fans voiced their disappointment, and her coach told her to lose weight.

Rigby turned to binging and purging, becoming both anorexic and bulimic. She was hospitalized twice, and nearly died.

During this time period, she retired from gymnastics, married, gave birth to two sons, and became a commentator for ABC Sports.

Although to the world she looked fine, Rigby knew her winning spirit had waned. So, like a true champion, she took a step into the unknown. She and her husband divorced, she sought medical assistance, and then began a new career as an actress and singer.

Her efforts paid off spectacularly. Rigby conquered her disease and earned ecstatic reviews in her new career. Debuting in the role of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, she was called “a genuine theatrical talent” in Variety. Since then, she has appeared on numerous television programs, and starred in such plays as Meet Me In St. Louis, South Pacific, and, of course, Peter Pan. She has toured the United States starring as Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun, and headlined in Las Vegas, winning the George M. Cohan Award for Best Specialty Act. During their 25th anniversary celebration, ABC-TV’s venerable Wide World of Sports acknowledged her unequaled contribution to athletics by naming her one of America’s Most Influential Women in Sports. Rigby was also the recipient of the League of American Theatres and Producers’ 2004 Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service.

Like the young boy she portrayed on stage, Cathy Rigby— Olympic icon, stirring orator, talented performer, and courageous woman—has battled the obstacles and flown to the stars.

Paul Rodriguez

“The Original Latin King of Comedy” Paul Rodriguez’ career has spanned more than two decades and includes starring roles and featured appearances in over 30 films and countless television series and specials. His first big break came while doing comedy warm-ups for Norman Lear’s show Gloria. Lear ultimately wrote and developed a weekly series for Paul, “a.k.a. Pablo.” Paul holds the honor and is enshrined at the Smithsonian as the first television show about a Mexican American Family on mainstream American television. He went on to do two other series, Trial and Error, and Grand Slam for CBS. For four years (1990/94) Paul hosted El Show de Paul Rodriguez, an entertainment talk show for the Spanish-language Univision Network. Paul’s directorial debut came in 1994 with the film A Million to Juan, a family comedy in which he also wrote and starred in.

Paul segued nicely from television to motion pictures, making his feature film debut in the Universal Pictures’ comedy D.C. Cab. He landed the coveted role of outspoken fight physician Freddie Pacheco in Columbia Pictures big budget biopic Ali for director Michael Mann and Producer John Peters. Other movie roles that followed are New Line Cinema’s The Price of Glory, starring Jimmy Smitts; Metro-Goldwyn’s Tortilla Soup, with Hector Elizondo; Crocodile Dundee in LA with Paul Hogan; The Shipment with Matthew Modine, Jerry Zucker’s Rat Race, and Chasing Papi directed by Linda Mendoza.

He had the opportunity to work with the legendary Clint Eastwood in the Warner Brothers film Bloodwork. Paul was the Borton Petrini, LLP’s

executive producer and star of the comedy concert film, The Original Latin Kings of Comedy, distributed by Paramount Pictures.

Paul Rodriguez is an in demand performer with a busy schedule of concerts and personal appearances.

As a well-rounded standup comedian, having honed his craft over the past twenty-five years, it is estimated that Paul has performed live to well over one million concert goers from coast to coast building a solid fan base. Within Hispanic communities, Rodriguez is considered to be the Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, and George Carlin when it comes to original comedy. Hands down, he has become the Original Latin King of Comedy.

Paul remains strongly rooted in the Latino community, working with civic and educational groups and his main contributions go to the National Hispanic Scholarship Fund (NHSF). Paul also contributes to such charitable efforts as Comic Relief appearing on the HBO’s program every year since its inception and hosts the annual Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament.

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Mitt Romney

Distinguished Public Servant and Business Leader Widely recognized for his leadership and accomplishments as a public servant and in private enterprise, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney’s career is marked by success. From 1978 to 1984, Governor Romney enjoyed a successful tenure as Vice President at Bain & Company, a leading management consulting firm, helping businesses grow and improve their operations. In 1984, Romney founded and led Bain Capital, now one of the nation’s most successful venture capital and investment firms. He later took a temporary leave of absence to return to Bain & Company as CEO at a time of financial turmoil to lead a turnaround for the organization.

During the run-up on the 2002 Olympic Games, Romney left the private sector to become President and CEO of the Salt Lake Organizing Committee. Given the task of turning around an Olympics mired in controversy and saddled in debt, Romney galvanized community spirit, erased a $379 million operating deficit, organized 23,000 volunteers, and oversaw an unprecedented security mobilization just months after the September 11th attacks, leading to one of the most successful Olympics in the country’s history.

Romney’s career in public service has been equally distinguished. Elected Governor of Massachusetts in 2002, he presided over a dramatic reversal of state fortunes and sustained economic growth, balancing the state budget without raising taxes, creating tens of thousands of new jobs, and enacting education reform to both reward students and aid failing schools. In 2006, Governor Romney proposed and signed into law private, market-based

healthcare reform, ensuring that every Massachusetts citizen receives health insurance—without a government takeover and without raising taxes.

Elected Chairman of the Republican Governors Association during the 2006 election cycle, Romney raised a then-record $27 million for candidates running in state house contests across the country.

Governor Romney has been deeply involved in community and civic affairs, serving in his church and numerous charities including City Year, the Boy Scouts, and the Points of Light Foundation. He was also the Massachusetts Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in 1994 against Ted Kennedy. He received his B.A., with Highest Honors, from Brigham Young University in 1971. In 1975, he was awarded an MBA from Harvard Business School, where he was named a Baker Scholar, and a J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School.

Governor Romney and his wife Ann have been married for 40 years and have five sons, five daughters-in-law, and fourteen grandchildren.

Karl Rove

Former Deputy Chief of Staff and Sr. Advisor to President George W. Bush Karl Rove served as Senior Advisor to President George W. Bush from 2001-2007 and Deputy Chief of Staff from 20042007. At the White House, he oversaw the Offices of Strategic Initiatives, Political Affairs, Public Liaison, and Intergovernmental Affairs, and as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, coordinated the White House policy making process.

Karl has been described by respected author and columnist Michael Barone in U.S. News & World Report as “...unique... no Presidential appointee has ever had such a strong influence on politics and policy, and none is likely to do so again anytime soon.” Washington Post columnist David Broder has called Karl a master political strategist whose “game has always been long term...and he plays it with an intensity and attention to detail that few can match.” Fred Barnes, executive editor of The Weekly Standard, has called Karl, “The greatest political mind of his generation and probably of any generation...He knows history, understands the moods of the public, and is a visionary on matters of public policy.”

Before Karl became known as “The Architect” of President Bush’s 2000 and 2004 campaigns, he was president of Karl Rove and Company, an Austin-based public affairs firm that worked for Republican candidates, non-partisan causes, and non-profit groups. His clients included over 75 Republican U.S. Senate, Congressional, and gubernatorial candidates in 24 states, as well as the Moderate Party of Sweden.

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

As a Fox News contributor, Karl provides a “genuine feel of inside knowledge,” says David Zurawik, a television critic for The Baltimore Sun. At Fox, Karl has “focused his punditry on what he knows best: strategy,” (Megan Garber, Assistant Editor, Columbia Journalism Review). Even The New York Times’ op-ed editor, Tobin Harshaw, observed that “Rove’s substantive contributions may inspire a little work ethic among the celebrity talking heads who may be forced to bring to the news a little more data and a little less opinion, a recalibration that would be welcome to its devoted viewers.”

Karl writes a weekly op-ed for The Wall Street Journal, he is a Newsweek columnist, and recently authored a new book published by Simon & Schuster.

Karl is now a member of the board of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation and the Texas History Museum, as well as a member of the Texas Philosophical Society.

Karl and his wife, Darby, have one son.

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Dick Rutan

Legendary Flight of the Voyager Pilot Voyager Aircraft’s non-stop and unrefueled flight around the world in December of 1986 placed Mojave proudly on the map and placed pilot Dick Rutan in the history books.

In early 1981, Dick Rutan resigned from his brother’s company and founded Voyager Aircraft, Inc., and prepared to complete the first-ever around the world, non-stop, non-refueled flight. The Voyager is now proudly suspended in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum’s “Milestones of Flight” gallery in our nation’s capitol.

Four days following the historic flight of the Voyager, President Ronald Reagan awarded Dick the Presidential Citizen’s Medal of Honor at a special ceremony. The medal has been presented only sixteen times in the history of the United States.

In 2001, Dick Rutan became the chief test pilot for XCOR and has been flying the first-ever rocket powered experimental Long EZ (pronounced Long Easy). Named the EZ-Rocket, this air vehicle has not only set a world record, but the proof of concept is also setting the future for rocket travel and the intensifying sport of rocket powered aircraft racing.

In July of 2002, Dick Rutan was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, Ohio. This esteemed enshrinement honored Dick and three other Americans “whose heroism helped define 20th Century America.”

In December of 2005, Dick set another world record. This

record was set in the EZ-Rocket for the longest distance in a ground launched rocket powered aircraft. In April of 2006, Dick was awarded the NAA “Most Memorable Flight of 2005” award in Washington, DC for the flight from the Mojave Spaceport to the California City Airport. Also, for that record setting flight, Dick was awarded the Louis Bleriot Medal in November of 2006.

After retirement, Dick joined his brother, Burt, as Production Manager and Chief Test Pilot for Rutan Aircraft Factory.

Dick Rutan flew the test flight development program of many military and civilian experimental aircraft and set numerous world speed and distance records in his Long EZ, a popular Rutan designed home-built airplane. Dick was awarded the Louis Bleriot Medal by the prestigious Federation Aeronautique Internationale during a ceremony in Brussels, Belgium in recognition of these record-setting flights.

Dick’s wife, Kris, is a kindergarten teacher. Together, they have four daughters and nine grandchildren.

Jane Seymour

Award-winning Actress and Entrepreneur Award-winning actress Jane Seymour has showcased her talents on the Broadway stage, in motion pictures, and on television, blazing the trail for family-friendly programming, with her Golden Globe-winning role as “Dr. Michaela Quinn” on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Seymour’s film credits include the iconic James Bond film Live and Let Die and the cult classic Somewhere in Time.

Fulfilling her lifelong dream to dance, and overcoming a serious back injury, Seymour took the dance floor by storm, appearing on the phenomenal sensation Dancing with the Stars.

Dubbed a “Renaissance Woman” by the press, Seymour launched the new Jane Seymour Home Collection—a national lifestyle brand inspired by her homes, art and family-centered lifestyle. Rolled out in 2007, it is a collection of home textiles, lighting, home fragrance, and decorative accessories.

Seymour is also an established author. Amongst her books is the autobiographical Remarkable Changes: Turning Life’s Challenges into Opportunities, profiling her own and 20 personal stories of others who have experienced positive transformation in the face of life-changing crisis. The birth of her twins John and Kris in 1995 inspired Seymour to team with her husband to write a series of exceedingly successful children’s books entitled This One ‘N That One, inspired by the changes having twins brought into their lives.

In addition to her busy life of acting, writing, designing and painting, and mothering six children, Seymour is a dedicated activist for a number of charities seeking to improve children’s lives Borton Petrini, LLP’s

around the world and has been actively involved in charitable endeavors for over twenty-five years.

She serves as the Honorary Chairperson for City Hearts, an organization that enriches the lives of innercity children and disadvantaged youths by teaching and involving them in arts programs including painting, dancing, photography, and acting. Seymour is an International Ambassador for Childhelp, a national organization dedicated to the research, treatment and prevention of child abuse. In addition to winning that organization’s “Woman of the World” Award, she is also the recipient of many other honors for her social and charitable achievements. She is, as well, a member of the American Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet and spearheads their campaign to eradicate measles as the number one killer of children in Africa.

Seymour is an advocate of combining traditional Western Medicine with alternative medicine practice, after witnessing the amazing results the combination had upon her ailing father in his last days, as well as the positive influence this theory has had on her other family members.

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Michael Steele

Chairman of the Republican National Committee Former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael S. Steele is an up-and-comer on the American political scene and the newest chair of the Republican National Committee. He combines his political and business experience to guide organizations through the interrelated legal, business, and political issues affecting their operations.

A self-described Lincoln Republican, Michael S. Steele earned a place in history in 2003 when he became the first AfricanAmerican elected to statewide office in Maryland. His experience as a successful elected conservative Republican AfricanAmerican and his engaging speaking style have launched Steele into national prominence. His first major exposure was during an appearance at the 2004 Republican National Convention. Since then President George W. Bush chose Steele to be part of the US delegation to the investiture of Pope Benedict XVI, and Steele has been an entertaining and articulate guest on cable political talk shows such as HBO’s Real Time with Bill Maher and Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report.

An expert on political strategy, fund-raising, PACs, and election reform, Michael Steele has served on the National Federal Election Reform Commission and the NAACP Blue Ribbon Commission on Election Reform. As a senior advisor to GROWpac, he advised House Republican Conference Chairman J.C. Watts (R-OK) on strategic and political issues.

Born in 1958 at Andrews Air Force Base in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Michael Steele was raised in Washington,

DC. He spent three years as a seminarian in the Order of St. Augustine in preparation for the priesthood, but, ultimately, chose a career in law instead. He earned his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

From 1991 to 1997, Michael Steele was a corporate securities attorney at the international law firm of Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton in Washington, DC, specializing in sophisticated financial transactions on behalf of Wall Street underwriters. He also was a corporate counsel for the Mills Corporation and founded The Steele Group, a business and legal consulting firm.

Named a 2005 Aspen Institute Rodel Fellow in Public Leadership and awarded the 2005 Bethune-DuBois Institute Award for his ongoing work in the development of quality education in Maryland, Michael Steele also has served on a variety of boards and commissions including East Baltimore Development Corporation, Export-Import Bank Advisory Board, the U.S. Naval Academy Board of Visitors, and the Republican National Committee.

Cal Thomas

Award-winning Journalist With a twice-weekly column appearing in over 500 newspapers nationwide, Cal Thomas is the most widelyread and one of the most-highly regarded voices on the American political scene. He is a panelist on the popular show Fox News Watch. His USA Today feature “Common Ground” provides insightful discussion of contentious social issues with his friend and political counterpart, Bob Beckel.

A graduate of American University, Thomas is a 36-year veteran of broadcast and print journalism. He has worked for NBC, CNBC, PBS, and the FOX News Network, where he currently provides frequent political commentary. He has appeared on NBC Nightly News, Nightline, Good Morning America, Crossfire, Larry King Live, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.

In 1995, Thomas was honored with a Cable ACE Award nomination for Best Interview Program. Other awards include a George Foster Peabody team reporting award, and awards from both the Associated Press and United Press International.

A writer of force and clarity, Thomas has authored over ten books, including the latest release, The Wit and Wisdom of Cal Thomas as well as a book with Bob Beckel, Common Ground: How to Stop the Bipartisan War That is Borton Petrini, LLP’s

Destroying America. He has also penned Blinded

by Might: Can the Religious Right Save America?, A Freedom Dream, Public Persons and Private Lives, Book Burning, Liberals for Lunch, Occupied Territory, The Death of Ethics in America, Uncommon Sense, and The Things That Matter Most.

Thomas and his wife Ray, who is a family therapist, have four children and eight grandchildren and live in the Washington, DC area.

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Realtor®

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4 bdrms+ofc, large game room, 4.5 bths, first floor master suite. White island kitchen with granite. Impeccably maintained, lovely décor. Big 19,000+ sq. ft. north/south facing lot, huge pool, side load garage, room for guest wing addition. Zoned energy efficiency a/c units, copper plumbing—tons of extras.

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$2,150,000 TRADITIONAL GEORGIAN COUNTRY HOUSE is meticulously planned! Tranquil English Gardens, outdoor living room w/ fireplace, pool. The finest in luxury amenities–exquisite window treatments, incredible chandeliers. 6 bdrms—one is fully equipped guest quarters. Great room, library, office, sunroom, elevator. Passionate cooks will love the huge gourmet kitchen! 8 fireplaces, 4 full + two half bths. State-of-the art. Priced from $2,150,000 with options for most furnishings, designer items.

$1,395,000 JOLLIFF-BUILT CLASSIC WITH EVERY AMENITY! Over 6,600 sq. ft. of pure luxury and privacy! 6 bdms + office, 5.5 bths, theatre, game room, 4-car garage. Corner lot with heated pool/ spa, barbecue, wonderful patio with 6 fans! Rich hardwood floors, multi-layered crown moldings, granite double-island kitchen, tall ceilings and BIG spacious rooms throughout. Judy Hampton decór – no expense spared! One of the finest homes in Seven Oaks! REDUCED $300,000!!

Tobin Smith

Fox Business Analyst and New York Times Best-Selling Author Tobin Smith is the founder and chairman of ChangeWave Research, one of the world’s leading independent equities and economic research organizations serving institutional and self-directed private investors. He is editor of ChangeWave Investing, its flagship research service, serves as executive editor of ChangeWave MicroCap Investor, and contributes his weekly market outlook and editorial rants to ChangeWave’s WaveWire e-letter, which is read by more than 250,000 investors each week.

Since 2000, Smith has served as a contributing market analyst for the FOX News Channel and currently co-stars on Bulls & Bears, cable television’s number one rated investment program. He is also a contributor to FOX Business Network and is a frequent guest expert on FOX News’ Your World With Neil Cavuto and The O’Reilly Factor programs. Smith has also appeared on CNBC, CNNfn, Bloomberg TV, CBS Radio and other leading media outlets.

In June 2000, his book ChangeWave Investing: Picking the Next Monster Stocks of the New Economy hit the streets, debuted on the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-seller lists. In October 2001, the longanticipated sequel, ChangeWave Investing 2.0, debuted as the number one selling business book on Amazon.com and was a Wall Street Journal best-seller.

Since 1980, Smith has delivered more than 1,000 speeches on strategies for anticipating and investing on the winning side of transformational change. In 1995, he became vice president and group publisher of Phillips International. As vice president, Smith launched the company’s Interactive Media Group where he refined the investment strategies and approaches featured in the flagship service ChangeWave Investing. In 2007 he became a founding shareholder in InvestorPlace Media, LLC, which is a leading private publisher of investment advisory publications worldwide.

Gerri Willis

FOX Business Anchor, Columnist, and Author Gerri Willis joined Fox Business Network (FBN) in March of 2010. She is the host of The Willis Report, a daytime program that focuses on consumer and personal finance issues. Joined by a different panel of experts each afternoon, Willis dissects the news of the day and explains its bottom line effects on the wallets of everyday Americans. The program also examines the latest scams, hidden fees, and other ways some companies take advantage of consumers. Willis also appears across all programming to provide analysis on how the news of the day affects taxpayers.

Prior to joining FBN, Willis served as the personal finance editor for CNN Business News and hosted the weekly half-hour program titled Your Bottom Line, which focused on ways to save Americans money and the economy’s effects on personal finance. Before CNN, she worked at SmartMoney magazine as the senior financial correspondent.

A graduate of Columbia Business School where she was a Knight-Bagehot Fellow, Willis is the author of two business books, The Smart Money Guide to Real Estate Investing and Home Rich.

She was also the winner of the Excellence in Retirement Savings Reporting award in 2001, which is bestowed by the American University School of Communication and Borton Petrini, LLP’s

the Investment Company Institute’s Education Foundation.

Born in Spruce Pine, NC, Willis resides in Westchester County.

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Ronnie Milsap Evening Entertainment Legendary Singer and Musician

Ronnie Milsap’s life story is a testament to overcoming challenges in life. Born into dire poverty in the Appalachian town of Robinsville, North Carolina, Milsap’s mother viewed her newborn’s blindness as punishment from God. Shortly after his first birthday, he was cast off and given to his grandmother to raise. At age six, he was sent to the Governor Morehead State School for the Blind in Raleigh.

All along, the sightless child took refuge in music and the radio. Morehead put him through strict classical music training, a program that was heightened after the young boy early on showed the innate talent of a prodigy. At the same time, he obsessively listened to the radio, especially the late night programs of country music, gospel and rhythm and blues.

Country music couldn’t have found a man more suited to lead the Nashville sound to mainstream modern entertainment. Even as he mastered Beethoven and Mozart, his heart belonged to hard core country and rhythm and blues, music he heard beamed from powerful radio stations located in Nashville. Those early sounds about life and love, provided a young, impoverished blind boy with a connection to a world beyond the harsh reality of his daily existence.

Eventually, an adult Milsap found his myriad of influences into a cosmopolitan style of country music that helped revolutionize Nashville. His track record speaks loud and clear: 40 number one hits, seven Grammy Awards, four Academy of

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Country Music Awards, and eight Country Music Association Awards. Together, they underscore Milsap’s position as one of the best loved and most endearing artists in country music history.

In April 1973, the blind singer began a long-lasting association with RCA Records. His 40 number one hits stand as a testament to his success and staying power as a country artist. Only the late Conway Twitty scored more top country hits, and his included many duets with Loretta Lynn.

While looking back at the enormous impact he has had on country music in the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and now this century, Milsap insists on looking ahead as well. “I’ve been very fortunate to have had a lot of successful records,” he says.

“Now it’s time to make some more.”

Milsap will also be one of the day’s Conference speakers.

One-Day Conference 2010

Bobby Vee Evening Entertainment Legendary Entertainer

Bobby Vee was born Robert Thomas Velline in Fargo, North Dakota on April 30, 1943 into a musical family. His father Sidney played the violin and piano, his uncle played sax, and his two older brothers, Bill and Sidney, Jr., both played guitar. By the age of fifteen Bobby’s musical career was already under way. He eventually saved up enough money from a paper route to eventually buy a new (but sun-faded) thirty dollar Harmony guitar.

Before long Bill had become an excellent guitar player and began jamming with bass player Jim Stillman and drummer Bob Korum. Bobby tried every angle imaginable to join the group sessions but Bill thought he was too young. When he finally let Bobby join him, Bill discovered Bobby knew all the lyrics to the songs they were playing. Before long, Dick Dunkirk took Stillman’s place on bass guitar and the Shadows became one of the top new bands in the area.

At this point, as the result of a tragic twist of fate, Bobby’s story begins to take on a bitter sweet flavor. The date was February 3, 1959. A light plane carrying Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, the Big Bopper, and 20-year-old pilot Roger Peterson crashed in a snow-covered Iowa field, killing everyone on board. Only minutes earlier they had finished their performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clearlake, Iowa and had rushed to the airport in nearby Mason City to catch the charter plane that was to bring them to their next engage-

Borton Petrini, LLP’s

ment in Moorhead, Minnesota. News of the tragedy traveled fast. People at the local radio station in Moorhead, like everyone, were in a state of shock. The rest of the tour had arrived by bus from Clearlake after a cold and snowy all night drive. A decision was made to continue on with the show. The promoters asked for local talent to help fill in that sad night and as the curtain came up that evening, a new voice was introduced to the world: Bobby Vee. In the following thirty-plus years Bobby would go on to place thirtyeight songs in the Billboard top 100 charts, six gold singles, fourteen top forty hits and two gold albums. But that night, instead of a seat in the audience Bobby and his brother Bill, along with the Shadows took the stage in memory of three of rock ‘n’ roll’s brightest stars.

Bobby has continued to grow as an artist and entertainer and to enjoy a loyal following of fans and friends alike.

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Winter Dance Party Evening Entertainment Renowned Tribute Group

John Mueller’s “Winter Dance Party®” is the official live and authentic re-creation of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper’s final tour and the only show endorsed by the Holly, Valens, and Richardson estates. Each live concert performance includes over two hours of unbridled, highvoltage entertainment featuring all the hit songs of the ‘50s era: “That’ll Be The Day,” “Peggy Sue,” “Oh, Boy,” “Rave On,” “La Bamba,” “Chantilly Lace,” and many, many more.

John Mueller, the critically acclaimed former star of the U.S. touring version of the London/Broadway hit musical Buddy...the Buddy Holly Story, performs as Buddy Holly and J.P. Richardson, Jr. fills his legendary father’s footsteps as the Big Bopper. Jay brings with him the heritage and feeling that only he can offer. Ray Anthony performs as Ritchie Valens and is a renowned star of the “Legends of Rock and Roll” show at the Imperial Palace in Las Vegas.

The very authentic and energetic four-piece band (guitar, drums, stand-up bass, and sax) includes Grammy award-winning Mike Acosta on saxophone.

The Winter Dance Party show has performed in front of over 2 million people on national TV for the Jerry Lewis Telethon, has toured extensively throughout the United States and Canada at theatres, performing arts centers, ballrooms, corporate events, casinos, and even the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with John Mellencamp, Marshall Crenshaw, and others.

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Highlights over the years have included receiving the keys to the city of Green Bay, WI from the Mayor, playing in the legendary Surf ballroom on the same day Buddy, Ritchie, and the Big Bopper did 40 years prior, and performing on stage with Maria Elena Holly (Buddy’s widow), Niki Sullivan (an original Cricket band member), and Tommy Allsup (original Winter Dance Party guitarist and legendary Nashville producer).

One-Day Conference 2010

Making it Happen The 25th Anniversary Conference is the result of years of refinement, planning, and foresight that have culminated in one of the largest and most famous oneday business conferences in the world.

Imagine, being tasked with building an infrastructure to accommodate an estimated 13,000 people in less than three weeks (after months of planning) including electricity, communications, and basic needs such as water and restroom facilities? This Herculean effort of coordination and planning brings together technical experts and volunteers, staff, and organizers who must orchestrate their efforts so the Conference will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for attendees. At the helm of this well-orchestrated effort is Borton Petrini’s Firm Administrator Katrina Nelson, who serves as conference coordinator.

Everything starts at the Law Offices of Borton Petrini, LLP. Many employees of the Firm, along with

we were then tasked with finding a suitable location that could accommodate an event that encompasses an area just 12 acres shy of the happiest place on earth.

We were soon contacted by Michael A. Neal, Vice President for Business and Administrative Services for California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) welcoming us home to their campus for our 25th year.

Their cooperation has been essential to our event’s success and we appreciate the efforts of their administrators, faculty, and students alike.

As you enter the Conference grounds, you will be taken aback by a display on loan from Pepperdine University of nearly 3,000 American and multi-national flags, proud sentinels honoring each of the lives lost on September 11, 2001. Landmark Surveying & Engineering has generously provided site and topographical surveying and mapping services for the strategic

their regular jobs, have additional responsibilities of putting the building blocks of the Conference together; a few of which are contracting for the speakers and entertainers, bidding and contracting for all Conference services, planning menus, writing and designing Conference marketing materials, assigning and training volunteers, coordinating ticket sales, and determining the grounds’ design.

When deciding to bring back the Conference for a 25th Anniversary presentation, perhaps we got a little ahead of ourselves. After making the announcement,

placement of the 2,880 9/11 Memorial Flags as well as the location of existing Conference site features for tents and facilities. We cannot thank them enough for their tedious efforts to make this display a reality.

With surveying services completed, the grounds layout and landscape plans are produced, indicating where each and every plant, tent, structure, and trailer will be placed. This task has been eloquently handled for many years by Renfro & Renfro, who have delighted our attendees and helped define our event as a uniquely patriotic celebration. Our event’s “patriotic >

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playground” is in no small part attributable to Don and Nancy’s creative vision and relentless problem-solving experience.

The first inkling Bakersfield residents have that the Conference is coming is the aluminum beams of the Main Tent being erected on the soccer fields at California State University, Bakersfield about the third week of September. A-1 Party Rentals and Karl’s Event Rentals were responsible for providing all of the tents for our Conference. In addition, they were tasked with providing tables and chairs. The main tent’s clear span design resembles a bandage shape with the main center section measuring 200’ x 500’. Two wings on either end adjoin the center section each measuring 100’ x 150’.

We are thankful for their contribution for this year and years past. The size and scope of our event presents special challenges that they take with pride and dedi-

one-day event. Keeping in mind thousands of children are eager to resume their soccer games following the Conference presented another challenge in minimizing any damage to the fields. We have gone to great lengths to protect the fields during the construction process, including requiring plywood to be placed in a rotation pattern in front of all heavy equipment and vehicles entering the Conference grounds.

And, since we are on the AYSO soccer fields, WaterWays Irrigation Engineers installed over 2,000 feet of water lines so we have water for the entire grounds.

Getting around the 50-acre Conference site and preparing such a massive project would be nearly impossible without maneuverable, reliable transportation.

A 60 vehicle fleet ranging from golf, utility, and limo carts will be provided by Sierra Golf Management to assist during the set-up as well as the day of the Conference.

cation. At the same time, Andy Gump delivers and installs about 6,000 ft. of event fencing with pristine windscreen encompassing the Conference grounds.

For the 2010 Bakersfield Business Conference, Ahern Rentals will be supplying construction equipment such as fork lifts, boom lifts, light towers, and utility carts to help the vendors construct and set up tents, stages, and the general moving of materials throughout the event. Ahern Rentals will also provide lighting for the evening events and parking areas.

Our patriotic tent city was built on fields that have long been the home of our local American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO). Our local soccer community has gone above and beyond in support of our Conference—even going so far as to place their season on hold for three weeks in order to accommodate this spectacular

With the tents in place and two-weeks before show time, JoRonCo, delivers and begins installing the main stage. In addition, they handle both celebrity tent stages, the media stage, all camera platforms, the front of house platforms along with all TV stands, and the press riser. In total, they coordinate just a touch over 5,000 sq. ft. of staging. The company is also responsible for supplying all the required items for the outdoor amphitheater evening concert including 5,500 chairs, 250 tables, and about a half-dozen additional tents.

The foliage plans from Renfro & Renfro are brought to life by CCN Nursery and Landscape, and Do Right’s Nursery. Do Right’s Nursery supplies live flowers, CCN supplies the plants as well as placing each and every one of them to produce the in-

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tricate flower artistry that has become a hallmark of the Bakersfield Business Conference. After all of the plans and flowers have been placed, the decorating team from Flourishing Art steps in to add the all-American finishing touches to the grounds. Decorators have a big job, with 32 acres to cover. The team is responsible for wrapping plants and flowerbeds, placing the 3,000 longstem roses into bud vases, fashioning the stage garland, and designing and placing many of the floral arrangements around the site awaiting the attendees’ arrival.

Approximately 3,500 plants will be staged surrounded by approximately 1,100 linear feet of white picket fencing. Bill Maxwell and Augie Armour are responsible for overseeing the installation of grounds props such as fencing and lattice work with the assistance of Act One Labor, as well as handling the upkeep of the grass and grounds during construction and patrolling to ensure there are no hazards to workers or Conference attendees.

To assist with keeping the grounds looking exceptional, Kern County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue will manage a large group of volunteers who will patrol the grounds for garbage. To assist in this endeavor, Bakersfield ARC (BARC), the largest service provider in Kern County for adults with developmental disabilities, will provide and maintain the numerous trash recycling receptacles located throughout the Conference grounds.

Varner & Sons, Inc. also provides the large roll-off refuse containers to manage all of the refuse. To keep the trash from overflowing, the full trash bins are hauled away throughout the day. More than 400 cubic yards of trash and recyclables are hauled away each year. Their efforts will keep the Conference grounds looking clean and tidy.

The Limousine Scene has been the exclusive and official transporBorton Petrini, LLP’s

tation provider of the Bakersfield Business Conference since 1990. Weeks before the Conference, Limousine Scene begins making travel arrangements with speaker bureaus, personal assistants, and the speakers themselves to provide transportation from Los Angeles hotels, LAX, our own airport, local hotels, and private residences in Southern California. All drivers undergo the scrutiny of an FBI background check with many of their chauffeurs being off-duty law enforcement personnel who are tasked with driving and protecting their passengers. We are especially grateful for their responsibility to make sure that all speakers are delivered to the stage in a timely manner and ensure their safe return to their point of origin.

As the speakers and entertainers arrive at the Conference they will have the opportunity to relax prior to going on stage in green room trailers provided by ModSpace.

We are excited to have Choura Events, providing catering and beverage services for the Continental breakfast, lunch, popcorn, and beverage areas in the Beer Garden, full bar in the Sports Tent, and evening concert. Executive Chef Ryan McIntyre will immerse himself into the entire culinary process for our event. Chef McIntyre believes in selecting local produce and utilizing only the best provisions. This will result in Choura providing a flavorful profile to the event and a combination of innovative pairings.

Randy and Michelle Spoelstra of Alpha Produce, Inc. took on the responsibility of coordinating and supervising this year’s Farmer’s Market featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts from a variety of local and international suppliers and growers. The Conference is excited to welcome and thanks Michelle and Randy for all their hard work and efforts in bringing together the produce for the Farmers Market. Mercury Bags also generously provided all the bags for the individual servings.

Rite Aid will be serving Thrifty Ice Cream to celebrate Thrifty Ice Cream’s 70th anniversary. Thrifty Ice Cream Sandwiches will be available in Vanilla, Mint ‘N’ Chip, Neapolitan, and Cookies ‘N’ Cream. Thrifty Ice Cream will be available in cones and cups of Vanilla, Rocky Road, Pistachio Nut, Strawberry, Chocolate Malted Krunch, and Mint ‘N’ Chip. We are exceptionally proud to have Rite Aid joining us this year to serve Thrifty Ice Cream. It’s the perfect treat for those of us who might develop a sweet tooth over the course of the day’s events.

Your local Golden Empire McDonald’s Operators, welcome you to the big, bold taste of McCafé. They’ll help you wake up first thing in the morning and unwind at the end of the day with their very own blend of 100 percent Arabica beans, sourced from around the globe. They will be serving complimentary iced and hot lattes, espresso made with 100 percent pure Arabica > Bakersfield Business Conference

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espresso beans blended with whole or nonfat milk.

Perhaps the most interesting bit of feedback we continue to receive is about the impressiveness of the portable restrooms provided by Andy Gump. Their commitment for this event consists of 90 “VIP” selfcontained flushing units for the ladies complete with sinks, lighting, and mirrors that run off solar power to operate the battery. The men will appreciate the 45 DLX special event “Granite” units with hand sanitizer and hand-washing units. We cannot say enough about their commitment and goal to make sure guests want to stay longer and come back the next time.

Once again Russo’s Books will be returning to the Conference to help manage book signings and sales in our Stars & Stripes Pavilion. The team at Russo’s loves talking about books and our attendees tend to be vora-

With more than 9,000 people converging on the Cal State University, Bakersfield site on Conference Day, a traffic nightmare could take all the fun out of attending if it weren’t for the cooperation of the Bakersfield Police Department Traffic Division, which directs and routes traffic to the Cal State campus. Once inside the campus grounds, the Bakersfield Police Department Explorer Post 521 takes over, efficiently directing attendees to the parking areas. The Explorers expect to park more than 4,000 vehicles on Conference day.

This year, Motor City will be providing more than a dozen complimentary shuttle SUV vehicles to help those who need assistance in getting from the numerous parking areas to the entrance of the Conference grounds.

During construction of the Conference site the grounds are made safe and secure by the watchful eye

cious readers, so we know their knowledge and efforts will be appreciated.

We’re thankful to the team at Bakersfield Magazine for the long hours and inspiration they have put into creating this year’s Conference Syllabus. It was a pleasure to work with the Corum family and Assistant Editor Anika Henrikson. The extra time and effort they put in and their drive to present information about our event and speakers accurately has benefited our event greatly and we are very appreciative of both their talent and commitment.

Because of the international flavor of the Conference and the widespread interest, a special Media Tent is provided each year for the approximately 150 journalists covering the Conference. Organizing and coordinating the massive influx of print and broadcast journalists is Brandon Martin of Martin Media Strategies.

of retired Lieutenants Brad Singleton and Galen Chow from the Bakersfield Police Department.

Brad also coordinates the services with Chief Brad Singleton Galen Chow Marty Williamson of the California State University Police, and other law enforcement agencies to provide a safe environment for the speakers and attendees on Conference day. This includes added safety resources from Trans-West Security Services, Inc. Conference organizers want guests to be “safe and secure” on the Conference grounds and see to it that any special health needs are met, so Bakersfield Family Medical Center enthusiastically steps forward each year to provide first aid and medical assistance to guests. >

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In case of sudden illness or injury Hall Ambulance Service, Inc. will be present with a fully-staffed Advanced Life Support Paramedic Ambulance as well as their Special Events Unit.

It’s been said that volunteering comes from the heart, and at the Bakersfield Business Conference, it shows! Under the direction of Sandy Sons, head of the Conference Volunteer Team, approximately 1,000 community members go out of their way to make this day the most pleasant it could possibly be.

Beside Sandy is Diane Cogdal who has volunteered since the second or third year the Conference began.

We would like to express our sincerest gratitude to these magnificent ladies who come back year after year, with a smile on their face—willing to do whatever it takes!

First aid services at the amphitheater will be provided in the new Jesus Shack mobile medical unit and Hall Ambulance.

And don’t forget the Conference’s traditional patriotic fireworks display finely choreographed to patriotic music and orchestrated by Pyro Spectaculars.

Getting Technical Keeping communications amongst the Conference organizers, security and the dozens of vendors and volunteers comes under the responsibility of Applied Technology. We are indebted for their high-level of participation in providing all two-way radios and ensuring communications are crystal clear.

Once the stage is set, Roger Upton Design begins its wizardry of transforming a bare stage into a dramatic backdrop for our speakers and entertainers. Designing such a massive project takes weeks to work out and hundreds of details to consider, such as size of props and their scale so both the live audience and those who see it from one of the numerous screens scattered throughout the Conference site see the same image at the same scale.

With one week to go, the conference grounds have really taken shape. It is at his point that electricity, audio, and video equipment is installed. What does it take to put together a production of this magnitude?

Hundreds of technical specialists in every field from electronics, lighting, power management, audio, and video come together to give you the best entertainment experience possible.

Long time conference vendor, MSI Production Services has returned to provide theatrical lighting for the main stage, business, and media tents, and the evening concert stage. 2010 makes the tenth Conference Borton Petrini, LLP’s

for this team of professionals, whose work has been seen around the globe on events such as Super Bowls, Olympics, the Indianapolis 500, Major League Baseball’s All Star Games, the NHL All Star Games, ESPN’s X-Games, major political conventions, and special events. MSI’s owner/partner, Tom Bollard (a graduate from Bakersfield’s Garces Memorial High School), is back for his eleventh conference. Wearing his other hat as the Conference’s technical director, his company, Show Imaging, Inc., will provide attendees with a next-generation experience without wrinkles or hiccups.

Serban Sound Systems has been involved with the Conference since year one, when they were contracted to provide several microphones for a small business conference. Through the years, Serban continued to expand for the needs of the Conference until its attendance swelled to 10,000 people in 1999. At that point Serban Sound made the transition to serve as Technical Coordinator, thus overseeing all technical applications at the Conference.

Schulman Mobile Video will be providing the Production Television Mobile Unit, Cameras and Video feeds for the main tent conference event.

Our popular outdoor venue presents special sound engineering challenges that have been tackled and overcome by LA Sound Company. They continue to prove themselves by providing crystal clear audio for our attendees between 2000 and 2004 and once again in 2010.

KGET/Eye Street Productions is providing video introductions of the speakers in the main tent as well as the video feed of the evening program in the CSUB Amphitheater.

The efforts of all the aforementioned audio visual specialists will culminate with images appearing on the numerous LED screens. Screenworks NEP is responsible for providing customized solutions incorporating leading technology to ensure the clearest picture.

Urner’s Big Screen City is providing televisions throughout the various tents to keep those strolling the grounds aware of what’s taking place inside the Main Tent.

Providing all the power to the 35 acres of Conference grounds is Event Power Solutions who supply superquiet generators and run miles of cables so the show can go on.

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The Sports Tent by Bright House

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four computers and four techs working to keep up.”

But what’s it like in The Sports Tent? “We’ve had some pretty good rivalries over the years,” said Wallace. Guests have also been treated to surprise visits from famous athletes. For instance, one year some former Olympians stopped by the Tent and watched games with the attendees and signed autographs. “It was wild when they showed up,” Wallace said. “It was buzzing all day long after that.”

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Just because you are at one of the largest business conferences in the world doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the really important things in life...like sports! This year, thanks in big part to Bright House Networks, who provided all of the TV and Internet connectivity, we’d like to point you in the direction of The Sports Tent.

Inside is every sports fanatic’s dream, a wall of televisions tuned into sporting events. You’ll be able to watch Major League Baseball playoffs, college football and basketball games, National Basketball Association games, NASCAR, and more.

Patrons are able to watch these events on several 50inch monitors, plus several other televisions, all in HD, which is a new feature this year.

In addition to the games live on television, guests are able to stay up-to-date on the other happenings in sports via a continuous Internet connection. Large monitors are dedicated to attendees who want to check on their favorite teams or look up up-to-the-minute scores.

“The [tent] is enormously popular,” said Sport Tent Supervisor John Wallace. “We started out years ago with just two laptop computers. Now we have

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Service

The Stars & Stripes Arcade A longtime feature of the Bakersfield Business Conference has been the Stars & Stripes Arcade and Bookstore, where books written by and about your favorite speakers are supplied by Russo’s Books, a locally-owned book store. Many speakers will be holding book signings today, exclusively for Conference guests.

The Bakersfield Business Conference offers the opportunity to hear and see some of the world’s most famous leaders, entertainers, educators, and business icons. Many of our speakers have authored books about their experiences or particular field of excellence, and Conference organizers realized years ago that attendees would appreciate the opportunity to purchase these books to enhance their visit to the Conference.

Throughout the years, such political icons, authors and luminaries as Henry Kissinger, Shimon

almost late for her plane because she refused to leave before she signed everyone’s book who was in line,” Charmaine said. “And everyone in line had at least two or more of her books” Bob Dole also was a favorite. The former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate seemed to enjoy his time at the book signing.

“He practically had to be dragged off because it was his time to speak,” she said. “He kept saying, ‘Just a few more, just a few more.’ He kept making excuses why he couldn’t leave. He’d see someone in line (as he was walking away) and say, ‘You look like a veteran – I need to sign your book.”

Advance notice cannot be given as to which speakers will be available for book signings and the Conference cannot guarantee speakers will be available to sign books Conference day. Speaker book signing is a Conference day “do you have time and

Peres, William Bennett, Bob Dole, Debbi Fields, Joan Lunden, Desmond Tutu, Ray Bradbury, G. Gordon Liddy, John Wooden, Sally Ride, Walter Schirra, James Carville, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., James Carville, John Major, Steve Young, and John Wallace have graciously attended book signings. “It gives the attendees a chance to bring home memorabilia that’s special,” said Charmaines Lyons, a volunteer who worked in the book signing from 1998 through 2001.

“Debbi Fields (of Mrs. Fields’ Cookies fame) was

will you agree to sign” arrangement made with the speaker when they arrive on Conference grounds.

However, throughout Conference day, announcements are made giving the times of those speakers who will be at the Stars & Stripes Arcade.

Due to the short time frame between a speaker book-signing announcement and when they begin signing, the Conference has speaker books available in the book-signing area located at the Stars & Stripes Arcade. Just pick up a copy of the speaker’s book and pay for it after the book has been signed.

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Our Volunteers How does an event the magnitude of the Bakersfield Business Conference keep guests happy?

Many things play an important part including the approximately 1,000 community members who volunteer for each Conference.

Those volunteers come from a full range of occupations and experience. As Sandy Sons, who heads the Conference volunteer team, shared, “The whole intent and concept of volunteers is to create a wonderful positive experience for the attendees.” Most of the volunteers are from this area but we have some from Los Angeles, San Diego, and even other

pervisor remembers when an attendee “sat in something sticky and we offered to send for a new pair of slacks. He replied that he wore a difficult size to find and asked that we try to get it off, so he bent over and I used a wet cloth to remove the sticky stuff from the seat of his slacks. He was very good natured and everyone, including the attendee, found it to be amusing.”

Diane Cogdal has volunteered for the Conference since the second or third year it began. She laughed as she stated, “I’m growing old with it.”

Diane shared one story where an attendee reported

Sandy Sons

Diane Cogdal

states. And one volunteer, Louis Kerker, is 99 years of age. He has volunteered before and this year, he will be seated in a chair serving as a greeter.

The people you see in the Conference shirts are ticket takers, greeters, main tent and evening program ushers, ice cream servers, and hosts who work in the Information Booth, Sports Tent, Beer Garden, Stars & Stripes Pavilion, and Business Tent.

In addition, there are many who work behind the scenes stuffing attendee bags and serving as radio dispatchers, and clean-up patrols.

Golf carts are constantly in motion around the grounds moving people with disabilities and ensuring each area has ample supplies. Over the years, guests have asked volunteers to do any number of interesting tasks.

Some requests you might say were beyond the call of duty, but volunteers are always ready and willing to “go that extra mile.” One volunteer su-

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that his father “went to the porta-potties and was lost. Volunteers converged on the men’s restroom in search of a man who looked lost. It may have seemed a little strange for men guests to see women volunteers in their restroom area, but they found the attendee’s father.”

Linda Schmitt, a volunteer assigned to the Information Center recalled the time when “an attendee came to us for help. She had stepped on her dress and tore it, and the volunteers sewed her dress back on.”

Another volunteer recalls one year while waiting to perform, a singer went for a walk and wound up in the middle of CSUB grounds when the sprinklers came on. The volunteer security person stood on the sprinkler until the entertainer could clear the area.

The Conference is very thankful for all the volunteers who make our guests welcome and attend to their needs on Conference day. Volunteers, you’re the best!

One-Day Conference 2010

A look at the cities, states, and countries represented at the Bakersfield Business Conference

The Global Community ALABAMA Auburn Birmingham Carrollton Grove Hill Inverness Mobile Sunland ALASKA Anchorage Cordova Ketchikan Valdez ARIZONA Albuquerque Anthem Apache Junction Avondale Bullhead City Cave Creek Chandler Cottonwood Delaware Flagstaff Florence Fountain Hills Gilbert Glendale Goodyear Green Valley Harrison Lake Havasu City Litchfield Park Mesa Nogales Oro Valley Paradise Valley Payson Peoria Phoenix Pinetop Prescott Queen Creek Queen Valley Roll Russellville Sacaton Scottsdale Sedona Show Low Sierra Vista Sonoita Stanfield Sulphur Springs Sun City Sun City West Surprise Tempe Thatcher Tollessa Tuckerman Tucson West Fork Wickenburg Winslow Yuma ARKANSAS Alma Cabort Gilbert Harrisburg Hot Springs Village Little Rock Springdale CALIFORNIA Acampo Acton Adelanto Agoura Hills Agua Dulce Aguanga Ahwahnee

Alameda Alamo Alhambra Aliso Viejo Alpaugh Alpine Alta Loma Altadena Altus American Canyon Anaheim Anaheim Hills Anderson Angels Camp Angelus Oaks Angwin Antioch Antelope Apple Valley Aptos Arbuckle Arcadia Arcata Arizona Arleta Arniona Arnold Aromas Arroyo Grande Arvin Atascadero Atherton Atwater Auberry Auburn Avalon Avenal Avila Beach Azusa Bakersfield Balboa Balboa Island Baldwin Park Ballico Banning Barstow Bass Lake Baypoint Beaumont Bell Canyon Bell Gardens Bellflower Belmont Belvedere Benicia Berkeley Bermuda Dunes Bethel Island Beverly Hills Big Bear Lake Big Pine Birmingham Bishop Blue Jay Blythe Bodega Bay Bonita Bonny Doon Bonsall Boron Boulder Creek Bradley Brawley Brea Brentwood Buellton Buena Park Buhl Burbank Burlingame Burlington Burnt Ranch Burson Buttonwillow Byron Calabasas

Caliente California City California Hot Springs Calipatria Calistoga Camarillo Cambria Cameron Park Campbell Canoga Park Cantua Creek Canyon Country Canyon Lake Capistrano Beach Capitola Cardiff Carlsbad Carmel Carmel Valley Carmichael Carnelian Bay Carpinteria Carson Caruthers Caspar Castaic Castro Valley Castroville Cathedral City Cayucos Cedar Glen Central Valley Ceres Cerritos Charlotte Chatsworth Cherry Valley Chico Chino Chino Hills Chowchilla Chualar Chula Vista Citrus Heights City Of Commerce City Of Industry City Of Paramount Claremont Clarksburg Clayton Clements Clio Cloverdale Clovis Coachella Coalinga Coarsegold Colton Columbia Commerce Compton Concord Copperopolis Corcoran Corning Corona Corona Del Mar Coronado Corralitos Costa Mesa Cotati Coto De Caza Cottonwood Coulterville Courtland Covina Crescent City Crestline Creston Crockett Crowley Lake Crows Landing Culver City

Cupertino Cypress Daly City Dana Point Danville Davis Del Mar Del Rey Delano Delhi Denair Desert Hot Springs DFW Airport Di Giorgio Diablo Diamond Bar Diamond Springs Dinuba Discovery Bay Dixon Dos Palos Dove Canyon Downey Dublin Ducor Durham Earlimart Edison Edwards AFB El Cajon El Centro El Cerrito El Dorado Hills El Granada El Monte El Segundo El Sobrante El Toro Elk Grove Elorata Elverta Emeryville Encinitas Encino Escalon Escondido Etna Eureka Exeter Fair Oaks Fairfield Fallbrook Farmersville Farmington Fellows Felton Ferndale Fiddletown Fields Landing Fillmore Firebaugh Flintridge Folsom Fontana Foothill Ranch Forest Falls Foresthill Forestville Fort Bragg Fortuna Foster City Fountain Valley Fowler Frazier Park Freedom Fremont Fresno Friant Fullerton Galt Gardena Garden Grove Gilroy Glencoe Glendale Glendora

Glennville Gold River Goleta Gonzales Goshen Granada Hills Grand Terrace Granite Bay Grapevine Grass Valley Greenbrae Greenfield Gridley Groveland Grover Beach Guadalupe Gurolena Gustine Hacienda Heights Half Moon Bay Hanford Harbor City Harmony Hawthorne Hayward Healdsburg Helendale Helm Hemet Herald Hercules Hermosa Beach Hesperia Hickman Hidden Hills Highland Hillsborough Hilmar Hollister Holtville Hope Ranch Howthorne Hughson Hume Huntington Beach Huntington Park Huron Hydesville Idyllwild Ignacio Imperial Imperial Beach Indian Wells Indio Industry Inglewood Inyokern Irvine Irwindale Isla Vista Ivanhoe Jackson Jamul Janesville June Lake Juniper Hills Keene Kentfield Kenwood Kerman Kernville Keyes King City Kingsburg La Canada La Canada Flintridge La Crescenta La Habra La Habra Heights La Jolla La Mesa La Mirada La Palma La Puente La Quinta

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La Selva Beach La Sierra La Verne La Costa Ladera Ranch Lafayette Laguna Beach Laguna Hills Laguna Niguel Laguna Woods LaJolla Lake Arrowhead Lake Elsinore Lake Forest Lake Hughes Lake Isabella Lake Sherwood Lake Stevens Lake View Terrace Lakeport Lakeside Lakewood Lamont Lancaster Laramie Larkspur Las Flores Lathrop Laton Lawndale Le Grand Lebec Lee Vining Lemon Cove Lemoore Lincoln Linden Lindsay Littlerock Live Oak Livermore Livingston Lodi Loleta Loma Linda Lomita Lompoc Lone Pine Long Beach Loomis Los Alamitos Los Alamos Los Altos Los Angeles Los Banos Los Gatos Los Olivos Los Osos Lost Hills Lucerne Valley Lynwood Madera Magalia Malibu Mammoth Lakes Manhattan Beach Manteca Maricopa Marina Marina Del Rey Marinwood Marion Mariposa Martinez Marysville Maywood McArthur McFarland McKittrick Meadow Vista Mendota Menifee Menlo Park Mentone Merced Middletown

Midpines Mill Valley Millbrae Mira Loma Mission Hills Mission Viejo Mi-Wuk Village Modesto Mojave Monarch Beach Monrovia Montara Montclair Monte Sereno Montebello Montecito Monterey Monterey Park Montgomery Village Montrose Moorpark Moraga Moreno Valley Morgan Hill Morro Bay Moss Beach Mountain Ranch Mountain View Murphys Murrieta Napa Navato Nevada City New Cuyama Newark Newbury Park Newcastle Newhall Newman Newport Beach Newport Coast Nipomo Norco North Fork North Highland North Hills North Hollywood Northridge Norwalk Novato Oak Hills Oak Park Oak View Oakdale Oakhurst Oakland Oakley Oakville Oceano Oceanside Ojai O’Neals Ontario Onyx Olivenhain Orange Orange Cove Orange Park Acres Orangevale Orcutt Orinda Orland Oro Grande Orosi Oroville Oxnard Pacific Grove Pacific Palisades Pacifica Pacoima Paicines Palm Desert Palm Springs Palmdale Palo Alto Palo Cedro

Palos Verdes Palos Verdes Estates Palos Verdes Peninsula Panorama City Paradise Paramount Parlier Pasadena Paso Robles Patterson Pauma Valley Pebble Beach Penn Valley Perris Petaluma Phelan Phillips Ranch Pico Rivera Piedmont Pine Grove Pine Mountain Club Pinedale Pinole Pinon Hills Pinon Pines Pioneer Pismo Beach Pittsburg Pixley Placentia Placerville Playa Del Rey Pleasant Hill Pleasanton Plymouth Pomona Port Hueneme Porter Ranch Porterville Portola Valley Posey Potter Valley Poway Pratcher Princeton Prunedale Pumpkin Center Quartz Quartz Hill Ramona Rancho Bernardo Rancho Cordova Rancho Cucamonga Rancho Dominguez Rancho Mirage Rancho Murieta Rancho Palos Verdes Rancho Santa Fe Rancho Santa Margarita Raymond Red Bluff Redcrest Redding Redlands Redondo Beach Redwood Shores Redwood City Redwood Valley Reedley Rescue Reseda Rialto Richgrove Richmond Ridgecrest Rio Linda Rio Vista Ripon Riverbank Riverdale Riverside Rocklin Rodeo Rohnert Park

Bakersfield Business Conference

Rolling Hills Rolling Hills Estates Ronhnert Park Rosamond Rosemead Roseville Ross Rowland Heights Running Spring Rutherford Sacramento Saint Helena Salida Salinas San Andreas San Anselmo San Ardo San Bernardino San Bruno San Carlos San Clemente San Diego San Dimas San Fernando San Francisco San Gabriel San Jacinto San Joaquin San Jose San Juan Capistrano San Leandro San Lucas San Luis Obispo San Marcos San Marino San Mateo San Miguel San Pedro San Rafael San Ramon Sanger Santa Ana Santa Barbara Santa Clara Santa Clarita Santa Cruz Santa Fe Springs Santa Margarita Santa Maria Santa Monica Santa Paula Santa Rita Park Santa Rosa Santa Ynez Santee Saratoga Saugus Sausalito Scotts Valley Seal Beach Seaside Sebastopol Selma Shadow Hills Shafter Shandon Shasta Shasta Lake Shaver Lake Shell Beach Sherman Oaks Shingle Springs Shingletown Sierra Madre Signal Hill Silverado Simi Valley Sky Forest Sloughhouse South El Monte South Lake Tahoe Solana Beach Soledad Solvang Somis

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Sonoma Sonora Soquel Soulsbyville South Gate South Pasadena South San Francisco Spreckels Springville Squaw Valley St. Helena Stanford Stanton Stevenson Stevenson Ranch Stockton Stratford Strathmore Studio City Suisun City Summerland Sun City Sun Valley Sunland Sunnyvale Sunset Beach Surfside Sutter Sutter Creek Sylmar Taft Tahoe City Tahoma Tarzana Tecate Tehachapi Temecula Temple City Templeton Terra Bella Thousand Oaks Thousand Palms Three Rivers Tiburon Tipton Toluca Lake Topanga Torrance Trabuco Canyon Tracy Tranquility Traver Tres Pinos Trona Truckee Tujunga Tulare Tupman Turlock Tuscany Hills Tustin Twain Harte Twentynine Palms Twin Peaks Ukiah Union City Universal City Upland Vacaville Valencia Vallejo Valley Center Valley Springs Valley Village Van Nuys Venice Ventura Verning Vernon Victorville Villa Park Vina Visalia Vista Volcano Walnut Walnut Creek Walnut Grove Wasco Washoe Valley Waterford Watsonville Weaverville

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While most of the country has been grappling with struggling markets and ever-increas-

Keeping doors

Open

ing unemployment rates, the Kern Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) has continued to keep the county afloat, securing

F

funds and jobs to

able to order a stiff drink, the Kern

of Kern County in

Economic Development Corporation

the years to come.

or an organization that’s just barely been around long enough to be

ensure the growth

certainly has a firm grasp on what it takes to do big business in our area. While most of the country has been grappling with struggling markets and ever-increasing unemployment rates, the Kern Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) has continued to keep the county afloat, securing funds and jobs to ensure the growth of Kern County in the years to come.

The KEDC was officially formed 22 years ago by a group of forward-thinking business leaders who realized that the best way to maintain a strong and stable economic climate was to first create a diversified economic base. So a private, nonprofit organization was born.

That strategy has ultimately paid off big time for our county.

In their short history, the KEDC has helped facilitate the reloca-

Richard Chapman

tion of major businesses and corporations to Kern County, which

President and CEO Kern Economic Development Corporation

has, in turn, helped boost our local economy and created tens of thousands of new jobs.

According to KEDC President and CEO Richard Chapman, on a very basic level, the organization looks to market our county to potential businesses looking to relocate.

Think of them as our county’s talent agent, making us look good and putting us up for roles.

Thankfully, Chapman said, the county already has so much going for it, there’s very little trouble in making us look good to potential corporations. ©istockphoto.com/LorenEvan

“There are six industry sectors >>

[

CORPORATE

RELOCATION

] www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 69

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keeping doors

Open

that KEDC actively markets within,”Chapman explained. “Value-added agriculture; transportation, logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing; energy and chemical; business and professional services; healthcare and medical technology; and aerospace and defense.”

And as many of us know, those are sectors in which Kern County has historically excelled.

“Not only do we recruit new business to Kern County,” Chapman continued, “but we help establish businesses with relocation and expansion efforts. And we work with local companies to provide economic data, workforce information, and facilitate the regulation process.”

Because, as you might expect, there is a lot of paperwork to fill out when moving an entire company to a new county or ensuring that the products and goods produced by a new company will adhere to county restrictions and regulations.

The KEDC offers a one-stop service by assembling a team of experts from both private and public sectors to address every relocation or expansion need. They provide direct access to public and educational organizations as well as local busi-

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nesses to help any relocating company recruit, hire, and train employees.

“Additionally,” Chapman explained,“we provide extensive data for these businesses. Everything from demographics,

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planning data, infrastructure and transpiration figures, to the city and county’s economic reports.”

The KEDC’s relationships with the County of Kern and real estate agents also give them access to available sites for rent or construction.

“We work with local, state, and federal government entities to not only expedite the process but are fully aware of economic incentives for companies that include sales tax

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70 Bakersfield Magazine

credits, tax deductions, and hiring credits to help attract new jobs, investment, and development,” Chapman further elaborated.

The truly important question, however,

is what has all that done for our county’s economy? Well, in the 2007-2008 fiscal year alone, the KEDC assisted efforts that ultimately created $67 million in wage income and $89 million in capital investment in Kern County. And between 2008 and 2009, they helped add $130 million in capital and PhotoS courtesy OF KEDC

$42 million in new wages to the county.

Over that 22-year history, they’ve been a part of some very big moves to our county including the Famous Footwear relocation

to have the same

to the Tejon Industrial Complex, which cre-

quality of life

ated 120 new jobs. Not to mention the Railex move to Delano which created 300 jobs and the FedEx Ground arrival in Bakersfield which added 200 new jobs to the county.

But there are numerous other companies who’ve found Kern County makes a great home for their company. In 2009, 250 new jobs were created when Men’s Wearhouse opened a distribution center in Bakersfield

ing

Index

from January

2010,

to have the same quality of life one would have

one would have with a salary of $50,000 a year in Los Angeles, they’d only need to make $36,881 in Bakersfield.

local women have found lucrative and interesting positions in oil and energy (for proof of this, turn to page 53). Many of these mentors educate young women in the importance of math and sciences—encouraging them to break traditional molds so that

with a salary

they, too, can be a part of emerging energy

of $50,000 a year in Los Angeles, they’d

industries.

only need to make $36,881 in Bakersfield.

Because of the expansive lay of the land

Additionally, the population density and

in our county, we are able to keep up with

average commute times are far smaller here

trends in industries that few other locations

in Kern County, which obviously looks bet-

can. Not only are we a leader in oil and ag,

ter to companies looking to relocate.

but, thanks to the KEDC’s help, many new

“Major companies will choose Kern because of our centralized location,” Chapman

Chapman(left) promotes the county at various conventions and summits.

usually thought of for women, yet many

industries are coming into our county walls, including wind and solar energy.

said.“No other county offers the easy access

For instance, not only is the Tehachapi

to all the population of California, let alone

Pass one of the world’s largest producers of

the entire Western United states.”

wind-generated energy, but the Tehachapi-

Not to mention, Kern County offers such

Mojave Wind Resource Area is anticipated

diverse cultural and environmental advan-

to grow an additional 4,500-6,000 mega-

tages to other counties in California, from

watts in the next 10-15 years.

urban to rural; from agriculture to the arts.

And that’s not the only growth the KEDC

and, in 2008, 135 jobs opened up when Rio

There is such an impressive diversity when

is foreseeing in the county’s economic fu-

Bravo Medical Center opened its doors.

it comes to job opportunities that the KEDC

ture. Studies have shown that Kern County

“We’re still finding that the greatest

wants to make sure young people know the

will be one of the first seven counties in the

success for our county is coming from

growing industries they can study within.

entire nation to return to pre-recession em-

Southern California,” Chapman explained.

That’s why they formed the Kern Economic

ployment levels sometime in 2011.

The reasons for this are plentiful. For start-

Development Foundation, a 501(c)3. Money

With more companies looking to ex-

ers, the cost of living and doing business in

raised through this foundation, from events

pand as business improves in the coming

Bakersfield and Kern County is significantly

and donors, will help the KEDC administer

years, the seven-person team at the Kern

lower than in the Los Angeles and Southern

new projects including a program for men-

Economic Development Corporation will

California markets.

toring high school and college-age girls in

show them the smartest place to put their

the energy and utilities field. It’s a sector not

money—right here.

According to the ACCRA Cost of Liv-

[cr ]

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 71

72 Bakersfield Magazine

Valley Republic Bank

Gregory D. Bynum & Associates, Inc.

ARRC TECHNOLOGY

GEMCare Health Plan

FAMILY MOTORS AUTO BODY & PAINT

Bakersfield’s Business

Achievers

A business doesn’t run itself. The people behind the business are what turns good ideas into successful companies. It takes a lot of hard work and a lot of dedication to do so, but most of all it takes passion. And that is something these people have in abundance. They’ve poured their heart and soul into their chosen profession and excelled. They continue to succeed in business, while earning the respect of their peers and the support of the community.

the

Achievers Series A Special Advertorial Presentation

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 73

Valley Republic Bank Bruce Jay, President & CEO

Valley Republic Bank opened in February 2009 in the midst of a very severe economic environment. The bank’s president and

faster because of that,” Jay said. “We’re focused on our customers and our community.”

CEO, Bruce Jay, stated that he was regu-

Valley Republic Bank’s performance dur-

larly asked why it would choose to open at

ing the first 18 months of operation has been

that time. According to Jay, this is a classic

outstanding. It recently surpassed $200 mil-

case where vision and preparation meets

lion in assets, and Jay noted it is well ahead

an opportunity. “We assembled the orga-

of its business plan in every category. “We

nizing team in early 2007, nearly two years

view the solid and stable development of

before the bank opened. We concluded

Valley Republic Bank as a marathon, not

that significant market opportunities exist-

a sprint,” he added. “It takes time, but we

ed to create a safe, successful local bank

are ahead of schedule in our goal to be

to serve the local market,” Jay explained.

‘Bakersfield’s premier bank.’ ”

Back in 1990, there were seven banks

In June, the bank completed a secondary

headquartered locally but only two re-

stock offering and raised an additional $12

mained by 2007 through mergers and

million in capital. With this additional capi-

acquisitions. During this same period, the

tal, Valley Republic Bank has the highest

population had increased by more than

capital ratio of any bank in its peer group in

75 percent. “We believed the Kern County market was poised

California. “This strong capital position provides safety for deposi-

for significant growth over the next 20 years, fueling the demand

tors and the local lending capacity to enhance the local econ-

for additional local banking services,” Jay added. “Although we

omy and improve the quality of life in our community,” said Jay.

never anticipated the downturn in the economy and the financial

The FDIC apparently feels the bank can do it, too. Since Valley

industry, it turned out to be a tremendous opportunity. Our timing

Republic Bank received regulatory approval in 2008, the FDIC has

for opening Valley Republic Bank couldn’t have been better.”

only approved one new bank charter in California. Valley Repub-

Jay said there are several reasons for the tremendous success

lic Bank’s commitment to the community is also impressive—it will

the bank has had to date. “First of all, when we opened, we had

travel to customers’ businesses to help with transactions. “We are

no bad loans, so we are a legitimate ‘safe haven’ for local de-

a part of this community, the market, and its people—we know

positors. Second is the quality of our team. Our board of directors

what’s going on locally. The services and turnaround time cannot

is made up of the community’s best. They are well-known, suc-

be equaled,” Jay concluded. “Our competitive edge is relation-

cessful business leaders who have demonstrated quality leader-

ship banking and strong local decision making combined with

ship consistently over time,” he said.

deep roots in this community.”

Furthermore, with the bank being connected to the local

That’s a philosophy that has already been proven to work for

community and not having “800” numbers, it is locally avail-

Valley Republic Bank, and it shows no signs of straying from that

able and responsible. “And we can make loan decisions much

commitment in the coming years.

5000 California Avenue, Suite 110 x 661.371.2000 ValleyRepublicBank.com

74 Bakersfield Magazine

Phil McLaughlin, Executive Vice President; Doris Depew, AVP-Relationship Manager; Bruce Jay, President & CEO www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 75

GREGORY D. BYNUM & ASSOCIATES, INC. Gregory & Mary Bynum, Owners

Gregory D. Bynum and Associates has a longstanding repu-

support and improve the quality of life in the Bakersfield region.

tation in Bakersfield for excellence in commercial real estate

A recently completed project that aligns with these goals is

development. Established in 1981, the

Bakersfield’s new traffic court located on

company also specializes in property

Arrow Street. The project has helped with

management, brokerage, and apprais-

the much needed relief of congestion at

al-analysis. In fact, providing appraisal

the existing courthouse. Other projects

services was how the company initially

currently in the works include a 23,000

generated business. “The vehicle was

square foot office building recently com-

appraisal and we slowly got into the

pleted on Ashe Road, south of District,

other areas of real estate development,”

which is the first phase of a 24-acre mul-

explained Greg Bynum who was joined

tiphase development. The project is de-

by Doug Warren in 1982 and John Brock,

signed for a total of 250,000 square feet

Jr. in 1988. Together, they have shaped

of retail and office space. Additionally,

a company whose impact on Bakersfield

the company has negotiated a public/

business has been significant in spite of

private partnership with CSUB for a devel-

the ups and downs of the real estate

opment on excess land on the university

market. “It’s a source of pride that we

campus. Development of a project for

have been successful over the past 30 years,” Bynum said.

Thus far, the company has developed over one million square

the site and its ground breaking are scheduled to take place over the next 18 months.

feet of buildings, and currently manages more than 700,000

For the team at Gregory D. Bynum and Associates, it’s about

square feet. But the company has a greater vision. “We have

the creativity behind what they do, the variety of people they

a goal of taking our numbers even higher,” explained Bynum.

get to work with on a daily basis, the fact that no two days are

Ultimately, with the help of their invaluable investor base and

the same, and the satisfaction they receive when they make

team of architects, lenders, and contractors, the next goal is

a quality impact on the community. And you can see that

to account for over two million square feet of developed prop-

quality in their work. “Our MO isn’t to cut corners. We build the

erty and one million square feet of managed real estate. It is

highest quality structure the market will allow,” said Bynum. In

this ambition that keeps them ahead of the curve and at the

addition, the team is dedicated to seeing their unique vision

top of the industry.

come to fruition. Their expertise, commitment to the commu-

The company’s focus is and always will be to positively shape Bakersfield’s landscape for its current and future residents.

nity and key business partnerships will allow them continued success.

“We’re all natives of Bakersfield and family is important to us,”

It is the leadership, teamwork, and initiative of the Gregory

Bynum said. Through the projects they develop and the many

D. Bynum and Associates team that will enable their future

volunteer hours of its employees, the company endeavors to

success.

5601 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 190 x 661.395.0541 bynuminc.com

76 Bakersfield Magazine

Front row (l-r) Greg Bynum, Mary Bynum, Roy Scarazzo, Edward Scott, Barbie Martinez, Megan Bynum, Kristin Bowman, Wendy Stuebbe Back row (l-r) Don Bynum, John Brock, Douglas Warren, J. Greer, Art Bynum www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 77

GEMCARE HEALTH PLAN Jon Van Boening, President BMH Vincent Phillips, MD, President GEMCare The year 2010 has been a banner one for GEMCare and its affili-

to compete,” Severs explained. “Offering insured products to the

ated companies. The medical group was formed as an Indepen-

local employers that want to offer health benefits to their workers.”

dent Practice Association (IPA) in 1992 with

The company will promote the new

just ten primary care physicians and three

commercial HMO to local employers em-

specialists. Today, GEMCare has over 100

phasizing collaboration and data sharing

primary care physicians and approximately

with employers. “Too often nobody can

180 specialists and services members in Ba-

tell employers why their healthcare costs

kersfield and the outlying communities of

have increased. We plan to make employ-

Delano, Lake Isabella, Taft, and Tehachapi.

ers part of the process by sharing data.”

Membership has grown from 50 members in

And what sets this new HMO apart is that

November of 1992 to over 50,000 members

all of the operations are not only taking

today. And while the company’s growth

place in the same city, they’re taking place

has been steady and consistent, their plans

under one roof.

for the coming months and years are what’s

“We know the dynamics of Kern County,”

most impressive.

said President and CEO of GEMCare Health

In January of 2010, Memorial Hospital and

Plan, Inc. Michael Myers. “We have a good

Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield agreed to pur-

feel for the community and what its needs

chase a stake in GEMCare Health Plan and its administrative arm,

are going forward.”

Managed Care Systems, LLC, acquiring a fifty percent interest. The

“The level of service will exceed that of other plans,” Severs con-

remaining 50 percent was retained by the GEMCare physicians. A new

tinued. “Members, as with our Medicare members, will be able to

entity was formed, GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health System (GMMHS).

come in and speak directly with us if they have an issue.”

“With the advent of healthcare reform, we needed to create a

All the components have come together nicely, Severs and My-

competitive system and products to fulfill community needs,” said

ers agreed. And because, according to Severs, fragmentation is

GMMHS President and CEO Robert Severs. And working with these

the biggest problem from an insurance standpoint when it comes

two hospitals, part of the CHW network, will help give them the op-

to healthcare, this new commercial HMO will already stand out

portunity to do so.

due to its cohesive structure.

The new relationship has allowed the new partners to launch a

“We could not have and would not have been able to ac-

Commercial Health Plan on October 1st of this year to go along

complish this commercial system if it hadn’t been for CHW,” Severs

with its Medicare Plan, the second largest in Kern County.

added. “Especially since the largest portion of healthcare costs

GEMCare’s history as a physician organization and the hospitals’

come from hospitals.”

medical network will combine to make healthcare more efficient by

So it stands to reason GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health Systems’

“giving hospitals and doctors a financial incentive to manage medical

new commercial HMO will only improve the level of care Kern

care more carefully. The idea was to have a local, alternative product

County employees receive in the coming years.

4550 California Avenue, Suite 100 x 661.716.8800 GEMCareHealthPlan.com

78 Bakersfield Magazine

(l-r) Ana Igoa, Marketing Manager, GEMCare Health Plan; Jon Van Boening, President, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital; Robert Severs, President and CEO, GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health System; David Dougherty, MD, Board of Director, GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health System; Russell V. Judd, President, Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield; Vincent Phillips, MD, President GEMCare and Board of Director, GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health System; Javier Bustamante, MD, Board of Director, GEMCare Mercy Memorial Health System; Mike Myers, President and CEO, GEMCare Health Plan. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 79

ARRC TECHNOLOGY Alex Rogers, Owner

What began with a small investment, is recognized as

and Australia, providing companies with technology so-

one of the fastest growing companies in America today.

lutions around the globe. It’s giant feather in ARRC’s hat.

Alex Rogers started ARRC as a simple

“We made a huge investment to pro-

PC service and repair shop by selling

vide our clients with the workstations,

his only asset, a horse named Trooper,

servers, back up appliances, and tele-

for a mere $300 in 1992. The timing was

communication equipment they need

great for a business like ARRC in the

to run their businesses,” Rogers elabo-

Bakersfield market. PCs were “hot”

rated. And it has paid off.

and the public was starting to real-

ARRC has been named one of the

ize what the Internet was, so Rogers

fastest growing privately-owned com-

began “cold calling from the yellow

panies in America by Inc. Magazine

pages” to get customers. This progres-

three times now. And both the Rogers

sive attitude laid the groundwork for

have been placed in nationally-ranked

what ARRC would become. “For us,

lists of top executives for the technology

to give anything less than superior ser-

industry. Not to mention, CharTec was

vice would be an embarrassment. It’s

dubbed Business Solutions Magazine’s

very personal,” he said.

Innovative Product of the Year.

ARRC is a prominent fixture in the Bakersfield community because of what Rogers and his wife, Monique, have de-

With CharTec, ARRC is able to help local and international businesses continue to function and generate revenue.

veloped—a company that caters to clients’ technologi-

“Anybody can sell a computer, anybody can build a net-

cal needs while retaining solid relationships that exist even

work,” Monique explained. “But when you see that a com-

when there isn’t a problem. And that motto has helped

pany is growing and becoming what it needs to be because

the company continue to grow and expand their reach

you were involved, it’s very rewarding.”

beyond repair and support services. ARRC’s capabilities

As the technology market fluctuates, ARRC has found their

extend into emergency technological services, live re-

niche every time. The company is always trying to better its

mote assistance, voice and data cabling, network and

abilities to help clients. “The solutions we provide are not just

security services, and managed services products, which

about delivering or connecting equipment. We manage the

allow clients to have every technological need taken care

experience for the client by minimizing downtime, designing

of by the entire ARRC team.

solutions to grow with the company, and continuing a high

Their managed services model, CharTec, has even gone national. ConnectWise, a company in Florida, partnered with ARRC to produce a CharTec product line which is currently being distributed across the country and into Canada

level of service after the sale is complete. We are successful only if our clients and their businesses remain successful.”

It’s a philosophy that continues to bring this company high praise.

1600 Mill Rock Way x 661.281.4000 arrc.com

80 Bakersfield Magazine

Name Here www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 81

FAMILY MOTORS AUTO BODY & PAINT Ben & Lisette Caroccio, Owners

“Bakersfield is the best place to live, work, and bring up our family,” said Ben and Lisette Caroccio. In search of

also to build a purpose-driven life for themselves and their families,” said Lisette.

a place to call their home and busi-

In the current economic climate,

ness headquarters, the young couple

the couple thrives on their philoso-

moved to Bakersfield, leaving behind

phy of giving back to the community.

the rushed and impersonal lifestyle of

Among their generous donations to

the Los Angeles area. In 2003, they

local charities, they have adopted a

purchased Family Motors Auto Body

village school in India, and helped es-

and Paint from Jose Arredondo, the

tablish a “Buffalo Bank” that provides

owner of Family Motors. Within seven

poor widows a way to make a living

years, they paid off the business loan,

and become self-reliant. They also

purchased two spacious buildings,

sponsor a Sewing Center and Literacy

and expanded their operation, cur-

Program for orphan girls. Child educa-

rently occupying over two acres on

tion is their major passion. Lisette vol-

District Blvd.

unteers almost 15 hours a week at their children’s school.

Ben grew up in the body shop business. His father had a two-car repair

In seven years, the couple has in-

shop. He instilled family values in the mind of little Ben—

creased their work force from six to thirty, established a

warmth, integrity, honesty, and friendship. His father oper-

state-of-the-art body shop and opened a full-service auto

ated his business by “Hand-shake,” that signified total trust

and truck repair center. What is their secret?

and loyalty between him and his clients. Ben and Lisette

“We love what we do, we treat every customer as part

still operate the old-fashioned way: give your clients a

of our family, provide the highest quality of service, and

good deal and a good deal more. “We have focused on

grow our business the old-fashioned way...by earning the

building people, our most valuable resource,” said Lisette,

trust of our loyal customers,” Ben explained. “We encour-

who serves as the CFO of the corporation.

age our employees to take pride in their work as though it

“The way we treat our workers sets the standard the way

was going to be on display. Our slogan has always been,

our workers will treat our customers. We treat our employ-

‘Do it right the first time and make the lasting impression,

ees as part of our family. We pay 100 percent of the pre-

because there is no second chance to make the first im-

mium for their health insurance, and pay better than aver-

pression.’ ”

age wages. Our mentor constantly reminds us that ‘Hungry

Because you have a choice where you get your vehicle

horses don’t win races,’ ” added Ben. “If you take care of

repaired, Ben and Lisette Caroccio do everything to en-

your people, they will take care of you and build your busi-

sure that Family Motors Auto Body will be your first choice.

ness. We help people not only to make a good living but

No matter what.

6860 District Boulevard x 661.834.4960 fmautobody.com

82 Bakersfield Magazine

The Caroccio Family www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 83

P R O F I L E S

Greenlawn Mortuaries Marshall (Digger) Helm, Owner | Jim La Mar, President 3700 River Blvd. • (661)324-9701 | 2739 Panama Ln. • (661)834-8820 For over 75 years, Greenlawn Mortuaries and Cemeteries has provided Bakersfield with heartfelt compassion and quality service during the most difficult times in our lives.

Over those years, the business has grown steadily.

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

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

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

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

“Greenlawn has been my life since the day I as born,” states owner Marshall Helm. “The company has continued to improve as time goes on. That is because we have always looked to key people who know what they are doing. That is why I am thankful to have Jim running our company.”

“We have a long history with this community,” La Mar stated, “and we do not take that lightly. But we also know that our heritage alone isn’t enough for people to choose us when the need arises. We have to provide them with the best choices, services, and facilities at a fair price. Many companies are fearful of expansion, but we’re investing in our facilities, and we feel it will benefit the families we serve. I’m very proud of that.”

That’s why Greenlawn is undergoing a major face lift this year. In addition to new restroom facilities, a remodeled lobby, and new paint, they’ll be enhancing the landscaping. The new fountain is an example.

But the changes aren’t all within the grounds. La Mar is diligent in ensuring the types of services they offer are not only in tune with what families today want, but that they are economical. While many families are choosing cremation for their loved ones, Greenlawn understands the need to have a location to visit in order to pay their respects. To offer those needed services, Greenlawn is providing the cremation at no cost to families with certain property purchases.

“We understand how important it is for a family to come together during such a difficult time, so we started allowing the use of our chapel at no cost when our customers choose cremation. When 84 Bakersfield Magazine

we fully care for their needs, it makes us a better business in the long run. I remind myself every day to ‘earn this’ right to serve the families that come to us. I want to be the voice that reminds our employees that this is not a job; it’s an opportunity to help someone.

I don’t take it lightly.”

Besides serving the community through day-to-day operations, La Mar encourages his employees to volunteer and give back to our community. A few of the organizations they are involved in are the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House, the Bakersfield Aids Project, the Bakersfield Breakfast Lions, and Kern County Teen Challenge.

“It is our civic duty to give back to a community that has supported us for 75 years,” La Mar concluded.

P R O F I L E S

Quality Steel Builders, Inc. Larry Tucker, President 3331 Pegasus Drive, Suite 101 • (661)393-3800 | www.QSBI.com After having spent 15 years installing all aspects of pre-engineered metal building systems throughout the state of California, Larry Tucker realized that he wanted to make some changes within the industry in which he worked.

“I saw a need for a better level of quality craftsmanship, which was lacking at the time in this industry,” Larry explained. “I had the desire to fulfill that need.”

So, in 1995, he started Quality Steel Builders, Inc., a company of which he serves as president, and one that is still seeing substantial growth to this day.

“We supply and install pre-engineered metal building systems,” he said. “This product can be very flexible in design and can consist of a complete metal structure to include framing, siding, roofing, and a wide assortment of accessories.”

Larry is committed to providing complete service to the clients of Quality Steel Builders, Inc. “We design our framing to support other types of materials or finishes such as concrete tilt-up walls, stud framing and plaster, insulated sandwich panels, or any design an architect or engineer wants to incorporate.”

Larry’s goal is to be not only accommodating to clients, but to provide unparalleled service. This business philosophy has made other companies take note.

“In the past, the majority of all metal buildings were of a basic design with the metal walls and roof finish.

Even though it is still the most cost-effective design,

“My team members bring our projects to completion within budget and on time.”

–Larry Tucker and is widely used and popular today, I have noticed that others have seen the benefits of using our system, complemented with the unlimited type of finishes that can be used to accomplish whatever look they want to achieve.”

As accommodating as the Quality Steel Builders, Inc. team is, they will not settle for less than perfection.

“We aim to excel above and beyond our competition in all areas of our business,” Larry elaborated. “We do extensive in-house training because a big hurdle has always been finding qualityoriented employees. So, we have built a training room that has a small metal building inside of it. We build this building from the ground up to help our team perfect their skills and we do in-house safety and equipment training to ensure a safe environment at the job site.” In fact, Larry is adamant that his staff be continuously trained throughout the year.

Larry personally works with and manages each project to ensure that the level of quality is top notch, safety practices are followed,

and that the team performs at a professional level.

“My team members bring our projects to completion within budget and on time. We have no limits to the size or the complexity of projects that we can complete.”

Quality Steel Builders, Inc. has even built projects over 500,000 square feet in size.

“We complete every job with high quality standards, within budget, in a very safe manner, with great customer service and professionalism.”

That attitude extends to all facets of the business, which has provided Quality Steel Builders, Inc. a lot of recognition—giving Larry a lot to be proud of. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 85

P R O F I L E S

Lynne Wright, Realtor GRI, SRES Keller Williams Realty 5351 Olive Drive • (661)619-5939 Lynne Wright has a face that most people in Bakersfield recognize. In addition to being a long-respected and long-trusted Realtor, Wright has also spent a considerable amount of time working in building and development, as well as relocation. These are both areas in which Wright has a lot of passion.

“I started helping people relocate in 2002, but also worked in resale and some commercial at the time,” Wright said. “Because of my extensive travel experience, and love and understanding of different cultures, I initially specialized in international relocation. However, I have moved into all areas of relocation.”

For Wright, this area of focus has allowed her to do what she does best.

“My work involves not just finding the perfect home, but finding the right schools, recreation possibilities, and helping clients find their way in our area as far as all the services they will need for their families,” she said. “I understand I am a part of a wonderful service industry. We aren’t simply selling homes, we’re helping people make a life here in Bakersfield.”

With an extensive knowledge in construction and building practices,Wright hopes to further help families who realize what a great time it is to build their dream home.

Wright brings an extensive track record in quality service and superb knowledge to the table whenever she works with a client. Save for roughly five years in which she lived in Seattle, Wright, raised at Tejon Ranch, has lived in the Bakersfield area most of her life. It’s this knowledge of the community that has allowed her to service clients for years and years.

And though her plate is more than full with her work at Keller Williams Realty, Wright still finds time to focus a considerable amount of energy on new home construction. With an extensive knowledge in construction and building practices, Wright hopes to further help families who realize what a great time it is to build the home they’ve always wanted.

Wright represents some of our area’s premier builders. Gene Winter of Gold Star Construction builds extremely energy-efficient luxury homes and is developing the site of the former Rio Bravo Tennis Resort. This amazing gated community will capture views of Lake Ming, the golf course, as well as Hart Park and our beautiful mountains. Winter also builds large custom homes wherever you like. Legend Homes is currently building in Talladega and Rancho Santa Fe. Chad Wright, owner, a true custom builder, is happy to have Wright represent him as he is busy at a time when he was unsure of his building future. “We have several projects underway and on the books—we are moving ahead,” Chad Wright said.

“I simply love what I do and work as hard as I can to help the 86 Bakersfield Magazine

families I serve,” she added. That energy has not gone unnoticed.

Wright has received countless referrals and letters of appreciation from large companies and small families alike.

Steve and Melissa Spendlove wrote, “Lynne was our real estate agent for our cross country move from Texas to Bakersfield. Even prior to personally meeting Lynne, her dedication and commitment were apparent in the pre-work and research she had completed and

That’s service you simply can’t argue with— and service that has given Wright a reputation in Bakersfield as being the best. She has a face you know and a name you can trust. delivered to us before we arrived into town. With her hard work and willingness to go the extra mile, we were able to find a great home in just one week.”

For Wright, a client is not another number. That came across to Lisa Babilonia who attempted to sell her home through another agent. After weeks of frustration she contacted Wright. “She immediately made me feel at ease and priced my home to sell. She’s experienced, knowledgeable of the market, has attention to detail, [she’s] trustworthy, and understands what it’s going to take to get your home sold.”

That’s service you simply can’t argue with—and service that has given Wright a reputation in Bakersfield as being the best. She has a face you know and a name you can trust.

GARDENING WITH MRS. P

Get growing with a bonus fall-winter season!

Inside-Out Gardening

O

By Lynn Pitts

ctober and November are what some people call “Inside-Out Time.”

It’s an odd sub-season in Bakersfield that may last a few weeks or longer. You start the day in a chilly house, but after going outside, you’re still close to summer warmth. Off come the sweaters and on go the sprinklers. There’s a slight chance of frost, which seems to encourage re-seeded lawns into that Oz-like emerald green color.

If you haven’t tried a fall-winter garden, you are missing a great opportunity to have some of the tastiest veggies. Sow lettuce, snow peas, radishes, carrots, Swiss chard, spinach, turnips, and fava beans. For flowers, sweet peas should be planted

by Halloween. Poppy, larkspur, lupine, Bachelor Buttons, and alyssum seeds can be scattered now. Garlic cloves, onion sets, and shallots can be planted as well as flats of calendulas, Iceland poppies, primroses, snapdragons, stock, violas, and pansies. Your window for planting a fall-winter garden is between Columbus Day (October 12) and Veterans Day (November 11); say around Will Rogers Day (November 4).

Fall is a gardener’s most-favorite time of year. There’s that crispness in the air, of course, bringing lazy summer doldrums to an end. Fall makes my mind snap to attention and recall lessons learned in the great outdoor school of life. Books and classes are a great way to discover more about gardening, but there is really no substitute for that remarkable teaching team—trial and error. Over time, I’ve learned a few things, some important, others not so, and some lessons are yet to take hold. Gardening is a passion you can fulfill without guilt. It’s not fattening. It’s not bad for your health. It doesn’t lead to a life of crime.

I still plant things too close, instant gratification being a powerful force. I still tend to go over the top; just one more pot won’t hurt, will it? And I am still a hypocrite. I told

In case you wondered...

You can have too many garden ornaments, but don’t let that stop you.

Garden mistakes are called “research.”

Plants that die are “opportunities.” myself no projects next year, but I’m already playing with ideas for a grape arbor. I have, however, learned some lessons through the years and here’s a smattering:

Plants don’t just grow up...they grow out as well. Most would probably be tossed from an airline seat for being too fat.

Pay attention to that horizontal dimension. g

You can have too many garden ornaments, but don’t let that stop you. g

Plants that live over winter but get leggy and/or woody like lavender, santolina, rosemary and sage rarely recover their lush fullness. Toss ‘em. >> g

©istockphoto.com/suzifoo/ivonnew

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 87

Gardening with Mrs. P Something happens to people’s brains when they get their hands on pruners.

They want to reenact the chainsaw massacre, which explains the butchered trees and hedges around town.

CA Lic. #909016

Residential & Commercial Solar Systems

©istockphoto.com/redmoonrise

g

Do not use fish fertilizer in your pots on the day you are having a cocktail party on the patio. Do not spread manure on your lawn just before entertaining outside (or inside with the windows open). And, by all means, do not go off and leave the job to a teenage boy who thinks, if one bag of fertilizer is good, two will be even better. g

The term “dwarf” on a plant tag just means it’s smaller than the species. Maybe only 15 feet high instead of 25. g

Make your home a Powerhouse!

You can never dig enough compost into hard clay soil. You can never dig enough compost into hard clay soil. Write this 100 times on the blackboard. g

A good pickax is your new “BFF” when breaking up hard clay soil. g

Don’t use bark chips on paths. It disintegrates into an excellent medium for growing weeds, unless you first lay down weed cloth. g

Someday you will find all your trowels.

They’ll be at the end of the rainbow with all those socks that disappeared in the wash. g

Don’t expect flowers you order to have the brilliant color you see in catalogs. g

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Don’t move a large plant unless you can afford to lose it. I moved a $250 Japanese maple because I thought it would look better somewhere else. Not a smart move. g

You are not alone. There is rarely such a thing as a water feature that doesn’t have problems. g

Plants that flop aren’t worth it. Staking is a chore and seldom looks natural. I make exceptions for lilies and delphiniums. g

As mentioned last issue, phrases such as “tendency to spread” are euphemisms for “will take over everything.” g

Unless your family is crazy for zucchini bread, you probably don’t need more than one zucchini plant. Ditto for cherry tomato plants. g

Roses continue their love/hate affair with me. Last January I convinced myself I didn’t need so many roses. I tried to give them up but it’s like giving up chocolate. You can only do it for so long. I never made it through Lent. I still have 25 rose bushes. g

Let your creative side have its wild way this bonus season.

Before I forget, I’ve got to tell you about a couple of fantastic plant catalogs I’ve recently discovered. Since our “Inside” time is soon arriving, it’s always fun to dog-ear pages on chilly winter days, planning ahead to 2011’s garden. My reputation as a disciplined shopper is toast as I get greedier with each flip of a catalog page. This reminds me of a German saying: “Once your reputation is ruined, you can live quite freely.” But I digress.

The catalogs I mentioned are: Yucca Do Nursery Yuccado.com A southwestern Texas nursery specializing in drought- and heat-tolerant plants that will astound you with all the excellent choices.

Plant Delights Nursery Plantdelights.com Can you say “addictive”? I can and I will. More than 1,000 perennials to choose from. It’s dangerous and don’t say I didn’t warn you.

A friend told me that gardening is like spaghetti. Everybody loves it, but everyone makes the sauce differently. And it’s still good. Call garden mistakes “research” and plants that die “opportunities.” I think Will Rogers would approve. v Lynn Pitts, better known as Mrs. P., is a native Californian, master gardener in four counties including Kern, a garden writer, and professional botanical artist. She has been featured on “The Art of Gardening,” on PBS, and has conducted flower workshops throughout California for botanical gardens and arboretums.

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GOING

GREEN photo by anne norman

In a classic episode of The Simpsons, Lisa falls for a young dreamboat environmental activist, whom she tries to impress by explaining she started a compost pile in her backyard.

He responds with, “You mean you don’t pocket-mulch?” and proceeds to show her a handful of decomposing debris extricated from his pants pocket (presumably, these are hemp pants).

The important thing to take away from this is that composting is not only for granolas and stereotypical environmentalist groups—anyone with a yard can benefit from starting a compost pile.

Sadly, “My First Compost Pile” kits are not available—you’ve got to do a bit of research before you embark on this. That’s why we’ve put together a few things to keep in mind when starting your composting journey.

First off, you might be asking yourself “Why compost?” The answer is simple and two-fold.

According to TheGardenofOz.org, “compost is good for two very compelling reasons. It’s great for the garden, and it’s environmentally responsible...it improves the soil, which in turn supports healthier and more productive plants.” The site goes on to explain that “compost provides virtually all of the essential nutrients for healthy plant growth, and it almost always releases those nutrients over time to give plants a slow, steady, consistent intake of the elements essential for growth. Compost will improve the texture of both clay and sandy soil. And, as an added benefit, compost improves plant vigor and provides for improved immunology from diseases.”

On an environmental level, composting “can significantly reduce the amount of solid waste that would otherwise find its way into the trash collection and dumping cycle.” So the more we compost, the less we contribute to the solid materials that sit in landfills.

Before you start mulching, you’ll need to obtain or make a container that is approximately one cubic yard (3’x3’x3’). And according to Ecocycle.org, size is important for the proper temperature. Piles that are too small cannot hold enough heat for effective microbial activity, and piles too large (more than 5 feet cubed) do not allow for enough air to reach microbes in the center of the pile.

Next, mix two parts brown (dry leaves, small twigs, straw, etc.) with one part green (grass clippings, kitchen scraps, etc.). This 2 to 1 ratio provides the best mix of carbon (brown materials) to nitrogen (greens). Chop or break up any twigs and large pieces of fruit and >>

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vegetable waste. Materials will break down more quickly with increased surface area.

Remember to keep it moist, but not soaking wet.

Also, keep it turning. Compost needs air. Turning the compost will help it break down and will prevent it from smelling unpleasant.

When it is ready your compost should look and smell like richsoil (just like earth). Use finished compost to feed your garden, flowers, potted plants, and lawn.

For flowers and vegetables, work in half an inch of mature compost into the top six inches of the soil with a garden fork or rototiller. Be sure that soil isn’t sodden with water as this can result in an “adobe effect” when it dries which adversely affects the plants.

For the lawn, sprinkle 1/8 to 1/4 inch of fine compost evenly across the grass to improve the lawn’s ability to use fertilizers more efficiently so that less is needed.

But you can’t just throw anything in a compost pile. Again, Ecocycle.org recommends “bones, meat, eggs (egg shells are okay), cheese, and other dairy products or oils be thrown in the garbage.” And keep the pets from doing their business in the pile, as well.

Always bury the food waste by pulling aside some of the bedding, dumping the waste, and then cover it up with the bedding again. If your compost is smelly, that’s a sign that it needs more air. Aerate your compost by regularly turning your pile.

So there are lots of benefits for composting...take your pick. All that’s left to do now is buy a pair of Birkenstocks and get in the garden. Just kidding. n Sources: TheGardenofOz.org; ecocycle.org/compost GR EEN PAG ES BUS INE SS PRO FIL E

How to OutSmart yo

ur Meter with Sola

r

More people are makin g the move to solar tha n ever before. According to Glenn Bland, owner of Bland Solar and Air, “by outsmarting your meter, you can low er or eliminate your ele ctric bill. Instead of paying PG&E for power, produce your own.”

Bland said costs that ma y have made solar prohib itive can be avoided with financing. Uns ecured low interest loa ns are available with little or no down payme nt.

There is a definite adv antage to buying versus leasing a solar system. Home owners wil l receive both a tax cre dit and rebate from PG & E. When the 30 percen t tax credit is received, it can be applied to the loan with payments cut in half. Payoff time is als o decreased. Plus homeowners will see inc reased property value, and return on investment in as little as five years.

Leasing has become pop ular but there’s disadva ntages homeowners may not be aware of. No rebate or tax credit are ava ilable. At the end of a lease, you either have to pay the residual value of the system, re-lease it, or have it removed. When a homeowner moves the y’re still responsible for the lease, if the new ow ner takes it over, they mu st be approved.

Bland’s solar expertise goes beyond Bakersfiel d; he travels across the U.S. and teaches cla sses on solar installatio n. He stresses that solar buyers can create positive cash flow, sav e mo ney on utility bills, and have low or no util ity bills after it’s paid off.

Stop by Bland Solar & Air’s 10,000 sq. ft. offi ce, showroom, classroo m, and wa reh ous e fac ilit y at 430 3 Eas t Bru nda ge Lan e or vis it www.outsmartyourme ter.com.

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 91

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home & Garden

By Tom Xavier

FALL into the Season ©istockphoto.com/bengoode

Decorating for the seasons is nothing new, but with a few fresh ideas, you can do wonders with a tired room. And it seems autumn is the favorite season to decorate for...the subtle fall colors bring warmth into our lives and homes. But how to handle each room?

The Living Room

Warm up your home with seasonal color

Bring in fall colors (reds, golds, browns) with throw pillows and throws. This is an inviting way to bring colors into your living space as splashes of colors will make it an inviting place to relax.

The first tip would be to put up colorful fall swag, which can be purchased at craft and hobby stores. You can also make them yourself with silk or dried flowers. Both will add an element of the outdoors.

Don’t be afraid to incorporate mini pumpkins—line them up on the mantle with foliage between them. Collect some colorful leaves, pine cones, and acorns outside, then gather together a bunch of small pumpkins, gourds, apples, and Indian corn. Add a basket, a glass vase or bowl, and you have the ingredients for a fall display you can use as a coffee table centerpiece, or placed on a hutch or antique bureau. Experiment with plenty of variations. An autumn-toned piece of cloth will look nice under a basket and it keeps the surface clean from residue—a win-win. Place candles around the sides or in the center of your display.

The Dining Room The best way to bring fall into your dining room is by using a fall-colored table runner or tablecloth. This step alone can change the appearance of the room and it’s a quick and easy addition. And if you want to take it one step further, try cloth chair covers in

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fall patterns or solid fall colors. >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 93

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96 Bakersfield Magazine

home & Garden Inside and out, we have you covered.

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.

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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 / Fall 2010 97

QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR

It’s not often that we declare someone’s pesto the “best-o,” but, in this case, it’s warranted.

When we asked Executive Chef Ben Cude from the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center to cook something special up just for our readers that would be fresh, local, and elegant, he did not disappoint. Instead of traditional basil pesto, he prepared a cilantro pesto that has our mouths watering. He also didn’t skimp on the fresh flavor!

But don’t take our word for it...try it yourself. n

©istockphoto.com/kcline

salad with attitude Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center

Heirloom Tomato Salad ~ with Cilantro Pesto~ Salad

ake!

easy to m

2 heirloom tomatoes, thickly sliced 3 oz. buratta cheese, thickly sliced Salt • Cracked Pepper Pesto

Executive Chef Ben Cude Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center

1 bunch of cilantro, stems removed 1/2 bunch parsley, stems removed 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 small shallot, minced Zest of one lemon • Juice of one lemon 2 tbsp. pepitas (pumpkin seeds) 2 tbsp. shredded manchego cheese 1/2 cup olive oil • Salt to taste Use a blender or food processor to blend all ingredients for pesto until combined. Adjust consistency with water. After pesto is prepared, arrange the tomatoes and buratta cheese on a plate, alternating cheese and tomato. Sprinkle with salt and cracked pepper to taste.

Then, simply drizzle the pesto over the top of your dish. Yum-mo !

98 Bakersfield Magazine

Cuisine: edible elegance

WHAT’S COOKIN’

welcome back

I became a fan of Brimstone, the grill and bar at the Padre Hotel at 18th and H streets in downtown Bakersfield, the moment I set foot in the place. I suppose you could say I’d waited decades for that moment.

By Mike Stepanovich I used to work downtown, in the days when the Padre was not much

The Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style, popular in California

more than a derelict. Older locals occasionally reminisce about the Padre’s

in the 1920s, was suddenly evident now that the roof-mounted distrac-

heyday in the 1940s and ‘50s, when a girl on a swing and musician Er-

tions had been removed, and the building had received a facelift. The

nie Kelly were magnets. When I came to town in the early ‘80s, the aging

former eyesore was now eye candy.

hotel featured a phony rocket and blinking “Alamo Tombstone” neon lights

Just inside the lobby, the Farmacy Café seemed just right for break-

on its roof that made it an eyesore and the source of civic angst. It had

fast or a cup of coffee, and, I noted, paid subtle homage to the region’s

unsavory nicknames. It also was a mere ghost of what it once was when it

agricultural heritage.

first opened in 1928.

The Belvedere Room, the hotel’s main dining room, was cool and inviting.

All that has changed. Now the Padre is the toast of the town. It’s the

The elevator maintained the original façade, with an arrow, like the hand

center of the downtown “social scene” a hotspot for lunch, and one of the

of a clock, pointing to the floor numbers as it rotated first clockwise when

in-places for dinner.

the elevator went up and counterclockwise when it came down.

Like many Bakersfieldians, I followed with some anticipation the Padre’s saga as it moved toward reopening. It had been open about a week when I

The high lobby ceiling gave the new Padre a feeling of opulence; the white paint emphasized openness and airiness.

found myself downtown with about 20 minutes to kill before a meeting at

Brimstone, the grill and bar, with its wall of windows looking out onto

the Chamber of Commerce office. I decided to see for myself what the buzz

H Street, its stamped-tin ceiling and its hardwood floors, was reminiscent

was all about, so I wandered over to the Padre. I loved what I saw:

of a bygone era. >>

Open wide for the Works Burger!

Cuisine: delectable destination

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 99

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Cuisine: delectable destination A hotel staff member noticed me looking around and offered me a tour. He took me to the top (eighth) floor, showed me a couple of the rooms and pointed out some of the other features. I was enthralled. I figured that a company that had put this much effort into converting a shell of a place into a first-class hotel likely served pretty good food. I went off to my meeting, but returned for lunch.

Was I rewarded! If you haven’t’ been to Brimstone, put it on your list. Everything I’ve tried there has been splendid.

I began my Brimstone experience with a burger. Any place worth its salt has a good burger, I reasoned, and as it turned out, Brimstone’s is among the best in town.

Padre’s Italian Salad

It’s simple at Brimstone—you have two choices: The Padre Burger (or if you prefer, substitute a chicken breast for the beef patty and you have the Padre Chicken Sandwich), or “The Works” burger (or chicken sandwich). With either, you have a choice of red cabbage salad, potato salad, or French fries. More on the sides in a minute.

I found it difficult to stray from the burger on subsequent visits (really, it’s that good) but was tempted one day by a seafood salad that was pitched as a daily special. It was stunning! Shrimp and crab highlighted this delectable creation.

Sadly, it’s never been offered since. I’ve overheard other diners asking about it as well, but so far no encore. Its brief appearance proved incredibly popular to the point that servers there are ready with an apology for its absence. Hopefully, the chef will bring it back.

The Caesar salad ($7) is a good alternative—crisp Romaine and lightly dressed. This classic salad also can be ordered with chicken ($4 extra) or poached salmon ($6). I also have enjoyed the Cobb salad.

My wife, Carol, and I decided recently to try Brimstone for dinner, and came away impressed. As luck would have it, we visited on a Monday and learned that all entrées are half-price on Mondays. So a 10-ounce top sirloin steak that otherwise would cost $18 is $9 on Mondays. The trout that is normally $14 is

Skirt Steak with Chimichurri

$7. A great deal!

At the enthusiastic suggestion of our server, Morgan, we started with the ar-

The Padre Burger ($10) comes with lettuce, tomato, a dill spear, onions and your

tichoke hummus and pita chips appetizer ($7). Morgan was right: the garbanzo-

choice of cheeses—American, cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. “The Works” is the

artichoke blend had not only a nice texture but also delicate flavors—the two

same half-pound patty with the same vegetable enhancements, but your choice of

principal ingredients blending beautifully. It disappeared quickly.

three additional toppings: bleu cheese, in addition to the other four cheeses; bacon; avocado; jalapeños; mushrooms; fried egg; barbecue sauce; and onion sticks.

The bun is a delicious bakery bun, lightly brushed with butter on the top. The

Carol, who adores shrimp cocktail, couldn’t resist Brimstone’s offering ($9).

The bite-sized shrimp were tossed in a cocktail sauce with just the right amount of horseradish. It was chilled and refreshing.

patty is cooked to order (I prefer medium), juicy and flavorful. The burger comes

Carol opted for the Padre Italian salad ($9). Carol tends to be a light eater, so

with a light application of mayonnaise, and additional condiments are available

I anticipated that part of the salad would accompany us home, but no, she ate

upon request (I ask for extra mayo and mustard).

every morsel. The bed of greens included tomatoes, cucumbers, white beans,

Once you take a bite it’s difficult to put the burger down; one bite leads to another and the next thing you know you’ve almost forgotten that it came with a side dish.

Provolone, and salami, which Carol topped with bleu cheese dressing. She’s particular about her bleu cheese dressing, and raved about Brimstone’s.

And the sides are exceptional, especially the potato salad. What makes the pota-

I chose the skirt steak, with fries and chimichurri ($13). This flavorful cut was

to salad so good is that it has Dijon mustard—not a lot, mind you, but just enough

topped with the bright green Argentine condiment that was such a complement

mixed in to give it a unique flavor and make you wish for a bigger portion.

that I asked for more. It was delicious! The size was perfect, too.

The fries are also first rate: crisp and crunchy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside. They’re seasoned with coarse-grind salt. Yum!

We’re already contemplating our return visit, because Brimstone is truly a dining destination. n www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 101

bottoms up!

saddle up!

By Jason Gutierrez

Ethel is one country-western gal that you might not want to tangle with on a Friday night. With a double holster, she’s got a bottle of Smirnoff on one side and hefty bottle

Quick Year Established: 1943 Facts Location: 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway

of whiskey on the other.

Established in the 1940s by the Chisum family, Ethel Chisum ran the establishment from 1962 to 1996 and she was one tough cookie. Bartender Sheena MacDonald says, when you were at Ethel’s you were treated like family, but it was her house and you played by her rules.

“There’s a running joke now that there’s always a burger available after

Ethel’s Whiskey Bent One shot Crown Royal Whiskey Half a shot Peach Schnapps Cranberry Juice

3 p.m. because when Ethel ran this place, she shut the grill off at 3 p.m. and if you wanted a burger, you could go someplace else. She was pretty straightforward like that.”

Ethel loved everyone and liked to have people around and that spirit is still evident at Ethel’s Old Corral. A scene from the wild west, Ethel’s Old Corral is a place the locals like to go for strong, quality drinks.

She’s got a little something tucked away for folks looking for a hearty drink: Ethel’s Whiskey Bent. “We named this drink after the famous Hank Williams Jr. song, ‘Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound.’ It’s a classic with the guys. It’s rugged,” MacDonald added. A concoction of crown royal, peach schnapps, and cranberry juice, this lil’ doggy is one that can be sipped or slammed.

The drinks aren’t the only charms Ethel’s has; Often seen outside is the cowboy’s best friend–a horse. Not to mention motorcycles–the modern horse for the modern cowboy. So, saddle up partners, this is going to be one wild night! n 102 Bakersfield Magazine

drink: whet your whistle

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way

Fiery Fiesta!

By Tom Xavier

One of my favorite party themes is a Mexican Fiesta...but with THE volume turned up. So Grab your sombrero and shuffle south to celebrate.

However, you may think you know Mexican food because you’ve cooked up some fajitas in your kitchen and cracked open a few jars of commercial salsa. But Mexican cuisine can be much more interesting than the commercial products you’ve tried over the years. So take the challenge when you host your next dinner party and make it a fiesta to remember with these recipes (and more that are on our website!)

Setting the Stage An outdoor setting is perfect. Use your backyard, patio, or even courtyard.

Do you have Mexican blankets, sombreros, dolls, or other souvenirs you picked up on a trip to Mexico? If so, find a way to incorporate them into your décor. The genuine item is always preferable to a plastic imitation. But it’s important to make it a very casual party. Not everything has to match; it makes for a more unique look. Tissue paper flowers are part of traditional fiesta décor in Mexico, so find a way to incorporate them.

Natural decorations such as a cacti arrangement or a chili pepper wreath (ristra) would work well as a centerpiece.

Whether they serve as accents to your food, or mere conversation pieces, get a selection of hot sauces to place around your table.

You can purchase strands of chili pepper lights to add a spicy glow to your party, indoors or outdoors.

Play traditional Mariachi music during your dinner.

To add that extra ambiance, bring in a fire pit, borrowed or rented.

Beverages

The Perfect Star ter - Pineapp

No siesta here...

It’s time to PARTY HARDY!

le Mojitos

t leaves, to taste 2-3 lime wedges • 4-8 min pineapple chunks 2 tsp. brown sugar • 3 or 4 • Splash of pineapple juice 2 ounces white or gold rum in the bottom of a hight leaves, sugar, and pineapple Muddle the lime wedges, min to bruise ’t overdo it, though. The idea is Don er. ddl mu or on spo n ode wo ball glass with a rum and pineapple , not grind them up. Pour in the ors flav ir the g asin rele ts, ien the ingred ig of mint. thoroughly. Garnish with a spr juice. Fill with crushed ice. Mix Forget the traditional margarita! Start your guests off with a very fragrant and colorful Sangria Punch or even the new “it” cocktail, the Mojito. But take it up a notch by preparing the Pineapple Mojito. >>

Cuisine : new takes on old traditions

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 103

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Cuisine : new takes on old traditions Appetizers and Dips You have to have an avocado-based dip, naturally guacamole is tradition, but how about kicking it up a notch and adding blue cheese? This “Roquamole” adds that extra little “wow” to a sometimes mundane guacamole.

Roquamole 1 cup crumbled Roquefort cheese 1/4 cup sour cream • 2 ripe avocados 1/4 cup sliced pickled green jalapeños 2 tbsp. finely sliced scallions • 1/4 tsp. paprika Large bag of blue corn tortilla chips (The blue corn makes a huge difference) Crumble or mash the blue cheese with the sour cream in a bowl. Mash in the avocados. If they are ripe, a fork should be all you need. Roughly chop the jalapeños and stir them into the mixture along with the finely sliced scallions. Arrange in the center of a plate or dish, dust with paprika, and surround with tortilla chips. Serves 4-6.

Heat things up a bit with a Mexican cheese fondue served with meatballs, sliced crisp jicama, and some fresh vegetable for dipping. All the best flavors of Mexican food have crossed over into this cheese fondue recipe, a great idea for dip or dinner.

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104 Bakersfield Magazine

20 oz. Monterey Jack cheese 3 tbsp. flour • 1 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. paprika • 1 1/4 cups beer 1 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice 6-8 fresh chilies, seeded and minced 1/2 bell pepper, seeded and minced 1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped 1 1/2 teaspoons salt Shred the cheese and toss together with the flour, cumin, and paprika. Set aside.

Heat the beer over high heat in a medium, heavy saucepan. When very hot, add the lemon juice, chilies, bell pepper, and tomato. Gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring, until it is melted and smooth. Add the salt and transfer to a warm fondue pot.

Serve with skewered pre-cooked meatballs (storebought for ease) and tortilla chips or your jicama and other fresh veggies. Serves 6.

Side Dishes There are numerous side dishes that can be made in advance and presented in a buffet style, which is the most practical arrangement for a large Mexican theme party.

All your dishes would not be complete without beans, rice, and salsa on the side. But you can satisfy the “hot and spicy” lovers with Jalapeño Hushpuppies.

They’re hot. They’re cool. But, alas, you can’t wear them on your feet. They’re breaded jalapeño pepper slices, baked to crispy-brown perfection.

Jalapeño Hushpuppies 1 1/2 cups yellow and/or white cornmeal 1/2 cup flour • 3 tsp. baking powder 1 ½ tsp. salt • 1/2 tsp. pepper 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 cup buttermilk • 1 egg, beaten 1/4 cup finely-chopped jalapeño peppers Oil for deep frying Stir together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the remaining ingredients and stir until blended.

Drop heaping teaspoonfuls of the mixture into hot (350 degree) oil. Fry the hushpuppies for about three minutes, or until golden brown, turning once during cooking.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve kicky Armadillo Eggs. They’re not really armadillo eggs, of course. Heck, they’re not even eggs!

But you can add them to your list of “fun recipes” anyway. This is a revamp of the original recipe which calls for stuffing and breading whole jalapeños. Makes 30 hushpuppies.

Armadillo Eggs 8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 8 oz. cheddar cheese, shredded 1 lb. hot bulk pork sausage 1 1/2 cups baking mix 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños, or to taste 1 (6-oz. package) pork-flavor Shake ‘n Bake In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the sausage, cheddar cheese, half the Jack cheese, and baking mix together.

Work a biscuit-size piece of the sausage dough into a patty about 1/4-inch thick. Place a pinch of

And impress your guests with Armadillo Eggs.

Jack cheese and two slices of jalapeño peppers in the center and wrap/mold it around the filling. Seal well.

Repeat for the remaining peppers.

Roll the prepared peppers in Shake ‘n Bake, if you like. This gives the Armadillo Eggs a crispy crust, more like an armadillo shell.

Bake in a preheated 325 degree oven on a lightlygreased baking sheet until browned, about 25 minutes. Makes 16-20 eggs.

Main Course No taco bars for this menu. Let’s try something different: Tricked-Out Chicken Chili! This is a savory chili, full of flavor, with just the right amount of kick to give your guests a skip in their step!

Tricked-Out Chicken Chili 4 cups chopped yellow onions (3 onions) 1/8 cup good olive oil, plus extra for chicken 1/8 cup minced garlic (2 cloves) 2 red bell peppers • 2 yellow bell peppers (cored, seeded, and large-diced) 1 tsp. chili powder • 1 tsp. ground cumin 1/4 tsp. dried red pepper flakes, or to taste 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, or to taste 2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for chicken 2 (28-oz.) cans whole peeled plum tomatoes in puree, undrained 1/4 cup minced fresh basil leaves 4 split chicken breasts, bone in, skin on Freshly ground black pepper Chopped onions, corn chips, grated cheddar, Sour cream (for serving) Cook the onions in the oil over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, until translucent. Add the >>

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garlic and cook for one more minute. Add the bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, cayenne, and salt. Cook for one minute. Crush the tomatoes by hand or in batches in a food processor fitted with a steel blade (pulse six to eight times). Add to the pot with the basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Roast the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes, until just cooked. Let cool slightly. Separate the meat from the bones and skin and cut it into 3/4-inch chunks. Add to the chili and simmer, uncovered, for another 20 minutes. Serve with the toppings, or refrigerate and reheat gently before serving.

Desserts The ending to a magnificent banquet! Top off the meal with flan, (the classic), churros, or sopapillas.

You always wanted to know how to make flan, right? Or perhaps you just want to know what flan is.

It’s the traditional Mexican caramel-custard dessert, a natural complement of spicy food. A good recipe for flan is to a Mexican theme party as a cucumber sandwich recipe is to a tea party...essential. With or without a theme, though, it’s a great dessert.

Toasted Coconut Flan

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Flan must be made ahead of time and chilled well. Often, flan is cooked in individual ramekins but this recipe calls for the use of two, 10-inch glass pie plates, instead, because that’s more practical for serving a crowd. But if you have 16 ramekins and the time and patience to unmold them...

1 (7-oz.) package shredded, sweetened coconut 1 1/2 cups sugar, divided 4 cups milk • 2 cups heavy cream 8 whole eggs • 4 egg yolks 1 tbsp. vanilla extract • 3 tbsp. water Spread the coconut out on a large baking sheet and roast it in a 300 degree oven, tossing occasionally, until light brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Cool.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. In a small saucepan, combine three tablespoons of water with one cup of the sugar. Cook without stirring over medium heat until it becomes a deep caramel

Kick it up a notch with Tricked-Out Chili.

syrup, about seven minutes. Immediately divide the syrup between the two pie plates and swirl to spread the caramel evenly.

Heat the milk and cream together but do not let it boil. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and egg yolks until well-blended, then beat in the remaining 1/2 cup sugar. Very gradually, beat the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture. It’s now custard.

Set aside 1/2 cup of the toasted coconut for garnish. Stir the rest of the coconut and the vanilla into the custard. Divide the custard evenly between the two pie plates. Now set the pie plates in a larger pan with hot water to reach halfway up the pie plates and bake for one hour or until the custard is set.

Remove the flans from their water bath and cool.

Cover and refrigerate until well-chilled.

To unmold the flans, run a sharp knife around the edge and, if need be, dip the bottoms in hot water for a few seconds. Place a round platter over each flan and invert. The caramel that was on the bottom is now on top, making a sauce. Sprinkle the reserved toasted coconut over the tops of the flans.

Serves 16-20.

Adding special twists can make a good party great—take one of you traditional recipes and change one of the ingredients, for example, instead of using sour cream, use crème fresh. Make a tomatillo salsa instead of a regular red tomato salsa.

For individual servings, present your Roquamole in margarita glasses. Don’t forget, you can find more recipes on our website. Whatever you do, put your own spin on your fiesta...and make it memorable. n

LIFE IS A CABERNET

By Mike Stepanovich

liquid harmony There’s an old adage in the wine business that if there’s harmony in the winery, there’s harmony in the bottle.

Tiny Via Vega Vineyard in Paso Robles is proof of that. Larry and April Gomez are about as down to earth and real as they come.

another playing a guitar—in reference to

Walk into their winery and feel the harmony: Larry gregariously chatting

the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos),

up customers, April quietly tending

celebrated in Latin America as a way to

to business, their kids playing. More

remember family members who have

often than not, they’ll have a movie

passed on. Traditionally, it’s a day of

or a baseball game playing on the

celebration and partying, and Larry

“big screen” on their north wall

and April are traditionalists.

that hangs from the ceiling. And

Perhaps it’s the balance in his

Larry will hoist his young daugh-

wines for which Larry strives. In a

ter up and put her on the tast-

region disparagingly dubbed “the

ing bar where she’ll sing a song

land of big wines” by some, refer-

with a stage presence that belies

ring to the propensity for ultra-ripe,

her single-digit age. The smile that

high-alcohol wines, Larry’s wines have more moderate alcohol levels.

lights up Larry’s face while watching his

“It all goes back to an earlier harvest,” he

daughter perform is, well, magic. It’s hard

said. “You get fresher fruit, more balanced wines.

to imagine someone who loves his family more.

I’m able to blend for flavor. I plant low vigor rootstock”that

Larry’s the extrovert. He’s never met a stranger. April’s

stands up to the warm climate better. “I crop here at our vineyard

the rock, the steady hand at the tiller. Together they have something special: a little winery that’s beginning to get big attention as

for 2.5 to 3 tons to the acre max so that I get concentrated flavors. On

people—especially Bakersfield folk—discover this gem of a place.

our estate vineyard you’re tasting the weather—you taste the trauma

Perhaps what draws people to Via Vega is the variety of wines

of drought or the trauma of cold weather. Hot weather dehydrates the

Larry makes, including Aglianico (a rare southern Italian varietal),

grapes and concentrates the sugar. So in warmer years I pick earlier and

Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel. His Bench Stars

earlier. I’m trying to bring freshness to my wines.”

And it just may be a combination of all three, and his apprecia-

again) between different varietals. And don’t forget his Port-style

tion of making his living off the land. It started at a young age. Larry

wine, Eleganté, that features traditional Portuguese varietals Sou-

was born in San Francisco and grew up in Atherton, near Stanford

zao, Tinta Cao, and Touriga Nacional.

Perhaps it’s good karma from the homage he pays to his forebears.

Some of his labels feature cheerful skeletons—one holding grapes,

©istockphoto.com/didyk

and Bullpen are red blends that showcase the harmony (that word

University. Early on he and his brother Rick “started hanging around” their uncle Tony’s vineyard in the Napa Valley. “We were drawn to the peace and toil of farming with no clue of its economics,” he said. >>

wine: a splash of life www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 107

wine: a splash of life Rick took over farming duties at their uncle’s vineyard after high school, and Larry decided “I wanted to be a farmer, so I went to Santa Cruz to grow roses.”

It wasn’t long after that, however, that Larry decided he’d had enough of roses, and enrolled at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where he earned a degree in fruit science.

Shortly thereafter, he enrolled at Fresno State where he earned his master’s degree in enology. While in graduate school, his uncle sold his Napa Valley vineyard.

His first job out of graduate school, from 1987 through 1990, was in a research winery in Fresno where he was involved in brandy production. In 1991, he went to Lockwood Vineyard in southern Monterey County as assistant winemaker. He stayed there until 1998, when he was hired at J. Lohr Winery in Paso Robles as its not long after joining J. Lohr he purchased 20 acres of undeveloped land in September 1998 “not more than a mile from my desk at J. Lohr.”

It was also at J. Lohr where he met April, who, not long after that, became his wife.

photos courtesy via vega winery

red-wine maker. He’d been living in Paso Robles so was familiar with the terrain, and

It was his dream to take a bare piece of dirt and convert it to a vineyard and winery. He planted

Given the caliber of wines at Via Vega, there’s harmony in the vines, too.

15 acres of the property in 1999 with 11 varietal

wine glut that year, and it took us a while to get

blocks each with clonal variations and “started the

traction.” They finally opened their tasting room in

wait for third leaf,” the first year he’d have a crop. In

spring of 2007.

anticipation of that day, he built the winery build-

At a recent winemaker dinner for him and April

ings in January 2001.

in Bakersfield, guests raved about the richness and

Meanwhile, after four years at J. Lohr, he be-

complexity of his wines. “We’re showing people

came winemaker at Wildhorse Winery & Vineyard

what this place tastes like,” he said. They also liked

in nearby Templeton. Two years later, in 2004,

his moderate prices: all Via Vega’s current releases

“Lockwood asked me back, and I’ve been there

sell for less than $30 a bottle, except for the port-

ever since. I have great respect for this group and

style wine, Eleganté ($37).

I believe in their farming. They’ve made it easy for me to also follow my dream.”

Part of his dream included what to plant at his

It takes a bit to find Via Vega: it’s on a spur off The quaint tasting room is a welcoming and casual experience.

Airport Road north of Highway 46 in Paso Robles.

Look for a sign with an arrow pointing to the left as

new vineyard. “When I was at J. Lohr I got to use mostly Bordeaux varietals—Cab-

you drive north. “We’re where the pavement ends,” Larry quipped. “We’re open most

ernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, so I planted those. You’ve got to

weekends and some Fridays, so call ahead if you’d like to come visit us.” The number,

have a Zin here, and Grenache and Syrah are Paso stuff [varietals widely planted in

by the way, is (805) 423-2190.

the Paso Robles region]. I also wanted something true to type for making port, so I planted the Portuguese varieties.”

When all was said and done he wound up with four acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, an acre and a half of Cabernet Franc, three acres of Merlot, an acre of Malbec, three acres of Syrah, an acre and a half of Grenache, two acres each of Zinfandel and Aglianico, and fractions of an acre for each of the three Portuguese varietals. Between all the varietals, it provides him with between 37 and 45 tons of grapes annually, enough for 1,100 cases or so of wine a year.

His first harvest was 2002, but he found it was a bad time to open. “We hit the 108 Bakersfield Magazine

And if you do find your way there—Larry says they’re not on any maps—don’t be surprised to find the whole family taking in a movie, or a San Francisco Giants game (Larry’s a mega fan) on the “VegaTron.”

It’s all part of the harmony that makes Via Vega so charming. n 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.

GREAT EAT-AWAYS

Beach Eats

Our sumptious list of nine coastal restaurants to tantalize you.

~ Cracked Crab ~

Cracked Crab

PHOTO COURTESY CRACKED CRAB RESTAURANT

751 Price St. • Pismo Beach • (805)773-2722 Having spent the past 11 years doling out delectable shellfish (we’re guessing a lot of

which is crab) to the locals and any tourist who happens to stop by, Cracked Crab has made a big name for themselves with the casual and comfortable ambiance they provide...in which you can relax while gorging on butter-soaked bites of crustaceans.

They’re not big on reservations (just walkin) and you might just see a lot of Bakersfieldians there during the winter. Apparently it’s the best time to make the trip...and no-doubt order their specialty—which is a bucket for two of, you guessed it, some of the best shellfish around.

~ Rosa’s Ristorante Italiano ~

491 Price St. • Pismo Beach • (805)773-0551 No, it’s not a chain. This superb Italian eatery, located in Pismo for the past 21 years, comes from the same family as Bakersfield’s Rosa’s (and Sorella’s) and offers up seasonal favorites to all the diners it can handle...roughly 30 percent of which are from Bakersfield. Dress nicely, however, as Rosa’s qualifies as fine

PHOTO COURTESY ROSA’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

e’re big fans of food here at Bakersfield Magazine. That shouldn’t really come as a shocker for those who regularly read our food section. Or those of you who’ve been on our Foodie Tour. Or those of you who download recipes from our seemingly endless archive online. We like food a lot, is what we’re saying. And, because of our proximity to the coast, we also enjoy a leisurely day trip to the beach.

We thought, why not combine the two and make a Great Getaways story that could rival any of our food features. Here then, is a list comprised of nine reader-recommended restaurants outside of Bakersfield, which don’t require more than half a tank of gas to get to—and which happen to prepare some killer cuisine (not to be confused with the song by Queen).

dining. Heaven forbid you don’t get the chance to try their award-winning cioppino (a tomato-based seafood stew) or their clam chowder, which blends traditional chowder flavors with an Italian kick. The restaurant also boasts an impressive bar which is always packed, but get there early as this place operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

~Dorn’s Original Breakers Cafe~

801 Market St. • Morro Bay • (805)772-4415 As any great seafood restaurant does, Dorn’s Breakers Cafe will base its menu on what’s locally running at the time.

They focus on what’s fresh and what’s in season. That’s probably why they see tons of people from the Valley stopping by to feast on savory seafood year round. And talk about a view—you’re overlooking Morro Bay while you dine on succulent crab, lobster, clams, and anything else that comes fresh out of the ocean (that qualifies as food). It’s a casual, family-run place but you’re guaranteed a fine-dining experience. That’s why reservations are recommended! >>

Rosa’s

©istockphoto.com/ velefante

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 109

Beach Eats

~Great American Fish Company ~

1185 Embarcadero • Morro Bay • (805)772-4407 We’re hard-pressed to write anything about this place that isn’t already apparent by their name. Still, we’ll give it a try since we figure you’ll want a bit more information. First of all, nothing says fun like being able to dine over the water, especially with such a family-oriented, casual ambiance. They’ve been cookin’ up flavorful bites since 1981, and their specialty is something not many people think of when they hear “seafood.” They’re big on serving up fish that’s been hanging out over a mesquite grill for a while.

It’s probably why they get their fair share of Bakersfield travelers trekking over. You won’t need to bother with a reservation unless it’s a special occasion—like Mother’s Day...or Eat A Lot Of Grilled Fish Day (soon to have its own Hallmark Card).

~Wine Cask ~

813 Anacapa St. • Santa Barbara • (805)966-9463 Wine Cask Restaurant is touted as a majestic space in historic El Paseo. Items on their menu range from comfort-style seafood to elegant dishes like their specialty: the Wine Cask Cassoulet, consisting of white beans, duck leg confit, braised pork cheek, and Farpoint Ranch sausage. Mouth watering a bit?

And, given the name of this establishment, which has been serving up the goods for over 20 years, it’s a sure bet they’ll tempt you with complementary wines perfectly tailored to your meal. It’s a neighborhood-style restaurant, so it’s casual (which is a plus for all the Bakersfield folk who drop by) but it’s got a great downtown vibe. They do accept reservations for the dining room.

Family Owned

Serving Bakersfield for

65 Years!

~The Harbor Restaurant ~

210 Stearns Wharf • Santa Barbara • (805)963-3311 When the unofficial motto of the restaurant is “it’s always smooth sailing,” it’s a sure bet your meal will be nautically-themed. The Harbor Restaurant features exquisite dining and some of Santa Barbara’s most spectacular ocean views. The menu is expansive, with seafood and steaks, and their ever-popular Potato-Crusted Fresh Salmon dish. Since it’s located on a pier that’s more than 150 years old, you can get your fill of the local history while you get your fill of local flavors.

~Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill ~

We Are As Traditional As Apple Pie. And As Current As Facebook® Brookside Market Coffee & Hageman 588-2070 Brookside Market The Marketplace 654-6858 Green Frog Market Alta Vista & Bernard 332-0451

Green Frog Market 3711 Columbus 873-8244 White Oak Plaza 6401 White Lane 834-1916 Smith’s Brundage 2213 Brundage Lane 325-6914

Bake Shop & Sales 2808 Union Ave. 325-6357 Decorating Dept.

2808 Union Ave. 325-3411

Voted Best Bakery in Bakersfield 110 Bakersfield Magazine

6550 Moonstone Beach Dr. • Cambria • (805)927-3859 For the last 17 years, Moonstone Beach has accommodated diners from all parts of California and the United States who are looking for upscale, yet affordable seafood and ambiance. Touted as one of the only full-service restaurant in the area, Moonstone Beach will definitely wow you with their menu, especially the Seared Sea Scallops with Citrus-Honey Glaze. If you’re not hungry by now, check your pulse. Reservations aren’t required—it’s more of a first come, first serve type of place, which suits everyone just fine at this laid back, yet elegant bar and grill.

~The Sow’s Ear ~

2248 Main St. • Cambria • (805)927-4865 During the summer, expect to find quite a few Bakersfield diners flocking to The Sow’s Ear. For 30 years, they’ve been serving up upscale comfort food like chicken fried steak and macaroni Continued on page 115 >>

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

Café Med

We are so ready for Monday Night Football. Featuring a 10 foot screen with stereo sound and our killer buffet. We change our food to match the teams playing. Only $9.00 with home made desserts! Fishlips is a 21 and over venue serving the finest in live entertainment and local food favorites. We are the perfect setting for your next business meeting, date with your special someone or enjoying a show with your friends. Serving Fish & Chips, Clam Chowder, Burgers, Tacos, Salads, Sandwiches and Tri-Tip for 10 years downtown. 1517 18th Street. Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30-4pm.

Dinner Mon-Thur 4pm-9pm. Fri & Sat 4pm-11pm. Bar Mon-Sat ‘til closing. www.fishlips.org. Reservations or Ticket Information (661) 324-2557

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

Benji’s French Basque

24th Street Café

Benji’s offers something a little different from Bakersfield’s Basque fare. In addition to traditional Basque entrées of lamb, chicken, veal and beef, Benji’s has pan-fried frog legs with garlic lemon sauce, lobster tail, roasted duck, escargots and calf liver.

And the beef isn’t just tri-tip; Benji’s serves a scrumptious filet mignon and New York steak with pepper cognac sauce. All dinners are served with the customary Basque family style set-up. Don’t forget Benji’s specialty soufflés flavored with Grand Marnier, raspberry, chocolate or lemon. Basque family owned and operated for 20 years.

Banquet facilities available. Conveniently located 2 blocks west of Highway 99 at 4001 Rosedale Hwy. Open daily 11:30am-2pm and 5:30-9:30pm except Tuesdays.

Lounge opens 11am. (661) 328-0400

With a list of daily specials a mile long, we have been a local favorite for over 20 years and continue bringing Bakersfield the good eats. From our classic homemade soups and comfort foods like meatloaf, to our sandwiches, omelets, and salads, we make everything fresh. Wrap your mouth around the tri-tip pasta with mushrooms, green onions, and a creamy garlic sauce. Or better yet, visit us for breakfast and you won’t forget it! We’ve got banana rum crepes, savory Portobella mushroom omelets, cinnamon apple pancakes, and so much more. But don’t leave without trying our Famous Rum Bloody Mary. It’s good for what ails ‘ya! Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, 6am-2:30pm. www.24thstcafe.com. 1415 24th Street. (661) 323-8801

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 111

The Dining Guide

FISHLIPS... Music Cocktails Grill

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

Uricchio’s Trattoria

The Dining Guide

Now Offering Curb-side To-go Service! 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 Mon-Thu 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 Nines Restaurant

The Orchid Fine Dining & Sushi Bar

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. We also offer a private room that accommodates up to 60 people. 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

Lorene’s Ranch House Coffee Shop

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

Where Everything’s Homemade! If you’re in the mood for an early morning breakfast, lunch, or a casual evening dinner, stop by Lorene’s for a hearty meal you won’t forget. Our extensive menu includes traditional breakfast skillets, country fresh eggs and omelettes, and a large selection of pancakes and waffles. For lunch or dinner try our South-of-the-Border section or one of our charbroiled burgers.

We also serve great steaks and numerous seafood entrées. Stop by today for family-friendly dining. Hours: 6am-9:00pm daily, Visa, MC, AE, DC, accepted.

Two locations to serve you: 1531 23rd & Eye St. (661) 322-6887 and 6401 Ming Ave. (661) 831-9250

Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe

Luigi’s Restaurant & Italian Delicatessen

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

100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY 1910 – 2010 Old World & Authentic Restaurant Hours: Tue-Sat 11am-2:30pm, Deli Hours: Tue-Sat 8am-4pm. 725 East 19th Street. shopluigis.com (661) 322-0926

112 Bakersfield Magazine

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

El Portal West

We invite you to enjoy our newest Mexican Grill and Cantina, El Portal West. We offer a great selection of appetizers, soups & salads, seafood, and our specialties are chicken, steak and shrimp fajitas. Our full service bar features the best margaritas in town! Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3-7pm (bar only), Lunch specials everyday, 11am-2pm. Fabulous Sunday Brunch, 10am-3pm, reservations accepted. 1100 Calloway Drive. (661) 829-2737

Frugatti’s Italian Wood-Fired Oven

Real Italian by Real Italians! Whether dining in or al fresco on our new patio, come in and enjoy our new menu that’s bursting with flavor for lunch, dinner or just dessert. You’ll love our steaks.

We use only the highest quality Certified Angus Brand® Beef. You’ll also love our chicken, seafood and pizzas cooked in our imported Italian wood-burning oven. We also offer a wide selection of pasta dishes and other Italian favorites. For dessert try our homemade New York cheesecakes or Tiramisu. Come experience our friendly atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 11:30am-10pm, Sunday 11:30am-9pm. All major credit cards accepted. 600 Coffee Rd., corner of Truxtun and Coffee. frugattis.com (661) 836-2000

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 113

The Dining Guide

Grandview Asian Cuisine

Take a trip to the Far East in this amazing restaurant located on the corner of Ming and Ashe. Try Grandview’s for a delicious variety of Asian cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere. Dine on some of the best Dim Sum Bakersfield has to offer while listening to the gentle splash of a waterfall. Whether you have a craving for fine Asian dining, or desire a place to unwind after work, Grandview Asian Cuisine provides the perfect place to get away. Hours: 10am-9pm daily. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 2217 Ashe Road, Bakersfield. (661) 832-2288

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

Caesar’s Italian Delicatessen

The Dining Guide

A Bakersfield tradition since 1970, Caesar’s Italian Delicatessens have been serving fine Italian food for over 35 years. Our family owned Delis serve quality Sandwiches, Soups, and Salads. We are a full service deli and carry a wide variety of cheeses, meats, and specialty items. We have a large variety of Salads including our famous Pickled Tongue. Pastas are prepared in house using sauces from Nonna’s (grandma’s) Old Italian Recipes. Come in and pick up a tray to take home. Catering is also available for your next event, small office parties, large events & weddings, and includes Party Trays, Pastas, Sandwiches, Tri-Tip Deep Pit Beef, Chicken, or just Appetizers. Ask for a catering menu. 2828 Niles St. (East Bakersfield) (661) 873-0270, or 9500 Brimhall Rd. #304 (Rosedale area) (661) 588-7004

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

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

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

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

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Beach Eats

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and cheese (made with Andouille sausage, smoked chicken, sun-dried tomatoes and three very grown-up cheeses, including gruyere, blue, and parmesan) alongside savory steaks and lobster pot pie. They don’t open until 5 p.m. and reservations are accepted but not required. Though the name doesn’t suggest it, The Sow’s Ear has been voted not only one of the most romantic places to dine, but also has been recognized

by Zagat as having the best service on the Central Coast!

Hog’s Breath

PHOTO COURTESY HOG’S BREATH RESTAURANT & BAR

~Hog’s Breath Restaurant & Bar~

San Carlos and 5th • Carmel • (831)625-1044 We’ll admit it. We’re really anxious to try the “Dirty Harry Hamburger.” This Clint Eastwood-owned restaurant has more going for it than a cleverly-named burger, though. The ambiance is casual, rustic, and very mellow, but you’ll also be treated to some succulent dishes while dining there including a presumably rugged (yet tender) prime rib. You can either make a reservation or walk-in to this place, which has been around for 38 years...coincidentally started around the same time Mr. Eastwood was starring in Dirty Harry. Or maybe it’s no coincidence at all. But what can’t be chalked up to coincidence is the fun you’ll have while eating great food—Dirty Harry wouldn’t have it any other way.

Do you know of a great restaurant we missed? Email us at comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net and give us the name of the place so we can add it to our list! v www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 115

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Oildorado Returns

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If you find your upper lip

photos courtesy taft oildorado, inc.

that they weren’t rocking a killer ‘stache)?

That’s no joke.

The celebration didn’t start early for the city, though—there was no grand celebration for 20 years.

That first year, festivities included a parade that attracted some 200 entries and a crowd estimated at 20,000 people.

According to the event’s history, there was a banquet, tug-of-war, fireworks, naildriving contest, and a water fight staged by the fire department. A civic luncheon was held, which would become a staple of all future celebrations.

But the moniker hasn’t always

1950’s celebration saw some pretty fashionable ladies on the prowl.

been Oildorado. As cheeky as the name is, it wasn’t used until 1946 (after World War II delayed the 1945 event).

The Chamber of Commerce decided at that point that they needed a permanent organization to plan and oversee the celebrations—enter Taft Oildorado,

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surprisingly bare at the moment, and you’re looking to attend Taft’s 100th birthday party this year, it’s high time you tossed the razor into the trashcan (unless, you know, you’re a woman). For without that bristly friend, you won’t be truly accepted at Oildorado Days, taking place this year from October 15th to the 24th.

Those ten days will commemorate Taft’s 100 years as an incorporated city with a celebration that “takes everyone back to a time when rugged pioneers carved out a bustling community in the middle of one of the world’s most productive oil fields.”

Though it happens only once every five years, Oildorado has long been considered an event worth the wait. For where else would you be able to order a warrant to have someone “arrested” (on the grounds

The 1985 Best Overall Beard winner. Who could top that?

Inc, a nonprofit, nonpolitical group of volunteers.

There are so many facets to the Oildorado celebration that for the event to happen annually, people would have to quit their day jobs. So it was decided that the celebration would take place once every five years. It would give the group time to make the coming Oildorado better than the years before and build excitement in the public.

“Every celebration has the same flavor,” said Taft Oildorado, Inc. President Eric Cooper. “Every year it has the same feel.” And that’s how it should be. Some of those events include the Maids of Petroleum, the parade, the car show, the crafts, the concerts, and the oilfield tours.

“But we started planning for this year’s events four years ago,” he added. >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 119

Oildorado Returns

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Santa’s Secret Shoppe • Forest of Sights & Sounds Santa at the North Pole • Food • Grinch Mobile & Train Rides Photos • Live Entertainment • Over 30 Crafters

December 4th-23rd

Mon-Fri: 6-9pm • Sat-Sun: 5-9pm Adults $5.00 • Seniors $4.00 • Children 6-12 $3.00 Children 5 & under FREE • Call 834-2272 for Ticket Locations

BARC CAMPUS 2240 S. Union Ave. 1 block north of White Ln. All proceeds stay in Kern County and benefit BARC and other nonprofit agencies serving local families.

The Assistance League of Bakersfield requests you Save the Date

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Folks gathered to watch the parade in 1946.

Mainly because of a particular event that will be brand new this year.

The Oil Worker Monument will be unveiled at this year’s celebration. It is the culmination of a major effort by a committee of volunteers who raised more than $700,000 to commission a monument to honor all the men and women who have worked in the oil fields.

“The planning for the monument began roughly five years ago,” Cooper explained. “And everyone wanted to be able to unveil it on the first day of this year’s celebration.”

The 30-foot tall tribute will be formally christened on Friday, October 15. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at the monument site where the town’s Rails to Trails bike and walking path crosses Sixth Street.

But the 10-day event is so jam-packed with things to do, see, hear, and experience, that you’ll want to go every single day. If only to witness the shenanigans of the Oildorado Posse, who’ll

CHEZ NOËL

Christmas Home Tour & Holiday Boutique

Friday, December 3, 2010 Saturday, December 4, 2010 Tickets $35 For information: (661) 861-9223

Proceeds benefit our philanthropic programs.

No cell phones, photography, high heels, wheel chair access, or children under 12

Available November 1st at: Bargain Box-1924 Q Street • Pappagallo-Stockdale Fashion Plaza • Olcotts-The Marketplace Sugardaddy’s-Stockdale Village Miss Holiday-Brimhall & Calloway Country Club Liquors & Delicatessen-3737 Columbus 120 Bakersfield Magazine

The Oildorado Posse out huntin’ for fugitives.

be on the look out for people with warrants out against them (and men without facial hair who’ve neglected to buy a Smooth-puss badge from the Oildorado Store). Those captured will be treated to a visit to Kangeroo Kourt and a trip around town in the official Oildorado Hoosegow.

And we weren’t kidding about the facial hair thing. Judging

categories for Wiskerino (the best name for a facial hair contest) include: beard (full dark, full white, full salt and pepper, full red), most unusual, best mustache, best overall beard. There also is an open division, which we at the magazine are incredibly intrigued by. We can’t emphasize this fact enough.

Of course, Oildorado has many other staples for those venturing out to celebrate our county’s history which include oil

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field skills contests such as wire line splicing, well-pulling, backhoe, welding, pipefitting, and crane operation.

“The community benefits greatly from this event,” Cooper elaborated. “It’s the reason so many people have given their time and energy to help us make each Oildorado celebration better than the last.

It’s amazing what you can get in a small town when you need it.”

But Cooper stressed the goal of Oildorado is not to make money—it’s to honor a community for how hardworking its people were (and are today). Any funds that are raised after expenses go toward future events.

“Every community needs something to celebrate,” Cooper said. “Other cities have lilacs, but we have oil. So we put a lot of eggs into this one basket of Oildorado because it affects so many people and makes them happy.”

Here’s hoping that basket gets bigger and bigger in years to come. And that more people embrace the majesty of an old-timey mustache.

If you’d like more information on this year’s events, visit oildoradodays.com. n

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A Maid of Petroleum gives a man a quick shave in 1955.

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A smile is proof enough the program works.

contributions and volunteers, they’re looking for donations of equipment to help care for the horses: alfalfa pellets, fly spray, reins, clean sand, lead ropes, and other office and farm equipment. Of course, you could always attend their Diamonds to Denim 20th Anniversary Celebration on October 16! For a full wish-list or to find out FIELD MAG RS more about M.A.R.E’s programs, visit mareridingcenter.com or call M R UNI T Y PA (661) 589-1877. n ER

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photos provided by M.A.R.E.

The horse becomes the rider’s legs.

“And you can’t imagine the difference that can make in a young person’s life,” she added. “That’s the second aspect. To see the look in their eye and the smile on their face when they’re on the horses.”

M.A.R.E.’s goal is to help the rider succeed to their level of ability, whether that be improved motor function or even developing better social skills.

“We have also seen a lot more children with autism benefiting from these riding lessons,” Durkan explained. “The facility provides enough sensory stimulation, but not too much. It’s a great opportunity to learn social behaviors and practice their ability to process sensory observations without the stigma.”

But the impact M.A.R.E. has on the community is more of a ripple.

“We receive about 800 volunteer hours a month and I would say 75 percent of our volunteers are high schoolaged kids,” Durkan said. These young people are benefiting immensely; they’re learning to give of themselves and realizing the importance of helping others—especially those who are differently-abled. The volunteers help with a variety of tasks, including leading the horses during lessons, helping the riders during games, sing-a-longs, and other activities to improve finemotor skills. They also help care for the horses, which is no small task.

“We have 10 horses right now, and

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one horse, a few kids in need, and a lot of hard work. But M.A.R.E (Mastering Abilities Riding Equines) is proud to be celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Mainly because it seemed like an impossible idea. When Diane Hopkins got the idea to found a nonprofit in 1990 for children with physical and developmental disabilities using horses, no one thought it would work.

“Everyone said it couldn’t be done,” said Deborah Durkan, executive director of M.A.R.E, who has been with the organization for 19 years.

There were too many hurdles, not enough support, and too much at stake.

But with perseverance and some generosity of early donors, M.A.R.E began steadily growing.

That growth can be attributed to the fact that there was a need in the community that hadn’t been met before.

Families of children with cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome, and other physical disabilities were seeing improvements in the demeanor, confidence, and physical abilities after they’d ridden.

“The physical benefits are the first aspect of many,” Durkan elaborated.

“When a rider is on a horse, their body reacts to the horse’s movement. It improves their muscle tone, balance, and coordination because the rider is having to hold their balance on a dynamic, moving surface.”

last year, our equine expenses were $40,000. That includes food, veterinary care, and necessary supplements to help the horses thrive with our sandy soil.

The horses need to be happy and healthy in order for them to help the riders. And the financial burden of the horses is a lot of our budget,” Durkan explained.

M.A.R.E. owns five of the horses; the other five have been “feed-leased” to M.A.R.E. by generous donors, who provide some financial support.

It has been a tough year, though, as M.A.R.E., which normally receives financial support and referrals from Kern Regional Center, took a $50,000 funding cut. That money was used to help families who couldn’t afford to have their child ride at M.A.R.E. “It costs about $35 to $40 per ride, and we have scholarship programs, but with this cut, we went from having 104 riders on our roster to about 60. That’s 40 families we can’t help right now.”

But there are many ways you can help M.A.R.E continue providing an amazing service to children and families of Kern County. In additional to financial

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It’s the Little Things

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Breathing Easy

©istockphoto.com/cs heezio

We all know the phrase, “It’s daycare providers, medical as easy as breathing.” We use providers, and school profesit when we want to describe sionals; by providing a day something that is considcamp for kids with asthma; ered a cake walk; something hosting Eager Breathers we can do with our eyes meetings for seniors with closed. But breathing easy COPD; by developing a is something a lot of us take county-wide referral system for granted. People affected for providers with asthma and by asthma, chronic obstructive COPD patients; and finally, to pulmonary disease (COPD), and support the Kern County Departother respiratory diseases often find ment of Public Health’s ELCAAP that breathing isn’t easy, but one orga(Enhancing Local Capacity to Address nization plans to change that.

Asthma Priorities).

The Asthma and COPD Education Center They’ll utilize mock inhalers and teach(ACEC) is a new kid on the nonprofit block— ing tools to get the message across to adults and having only recently acquired their license as a public children. charity and their 501c3 designation from the government. And by “We’ve already raised some money through two events,” Snorecently, we mean July of 2010. But the organization has been on barger explained. “We received the proceeds from the Woody Y a mission for more than a year now, trying tirelessly to educate the Bike Ride in April and from the Fish Pierce Summertime Blues public on asthma and chronic respiratory disorders. The group has Review in August.” Those funds will stay local to support ACEC’s enlisted the services of veteran Nonprofit executive Dave Parker. educational programs—much needed educational programs.

Parker’s experience as an executive of Kern Community FoundaThe Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that tion, CALM, and other community nonprofits brings a strong leadmore than 16 million adults and 6 million children have asthma ership to the group. across the country. And because of Kern County’s air quality, more “We’re hoping to provide training and information to the pubthan 130,000 people have asthma in our area. According to a Surlic and educators on how to better manage these diseases,” exveillance Report in June of 2007 detailing the burden asthma has on plained John Snobarger, one of ACEC’s founders and the current the state, the number of asthma-related hospitalizations tallied over Board President.

700 in 2006. The cost of hospitalizations was over $18 million.

“We realized that while there are organizations tackling respira“Asthma as a disease is quite complicated,” explained Sharon Bortory health from a state and national level, fighting for cleaner air radori. “But the management is very simple. It’s just knowing how.” laws, there wasn’t anything being done on a local and county scale.

The business of medicine doesn’t allow for a lot of education.

People weren’t being educated on the conditions they had.”

That’s when Snobarger and a number of other locals banded This organization will fill that void. –Sharon Borradori together to form the ACEC. It was June of 2009 when founders began working on getting Borradori is one of three Certified Asthma Educators in Kern County. the ACEC open for the public. And only a little over a year later, After retiring from the American Lung Association in 2009, she they’re seeing the fruits of their labors. realized that there was still a strong need on a local level.

They were donated office space, furniture, and computers by “I started trying to educate patients on my own and I was apgenerous local businesses. proached by John and other founders and asked if I wanted to make “We wanted to have everything set up before we began taking what I was doing a nonprofit.” It was an easy question. our mission to the public,” Snobarger continued.

“Organizations that work to improve air quality are very imporAnd that mission is simple: they want to provide education to tant, but we wanted to help families suffering today,” she added. patients and medical professionals in the area of lung disease in “We’re very passionate about improving the quality of life for a paorder to improve the quality of life along with working to prevent tient and their family,” Borradori said. “Especially children. It’s horrespiratory disease. rible to see a child feel like they can’t breathe. It’s one of the leading They’ll do this by providing one-on-one and group education to causes of missing school...they’re missing out on life. But so much of individuals with asthma and COPD and their families at the ACEC; this can be avoided with a little education.” educating to school personnel on asthma and treating young Like encouraging those who suffer from COPD to start using children with respiratory conditions; by hosting a countyoxygen earlier. “Some people want to put off using oxygen as D L M E AG FI RS wide Asthma Conference for patients and their families, long as they can,” Snobarger explained, “but research >>

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Asthma and COPD Education Center(ACEC)

Breathing Easy

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has shown that those who begin oxygen treatments earlier, even just at night, can help stop the disease from progressing. The physicians we have on our Board of Directors can help us tailor this information for the local public so that they’re informed.”

“Education is so important when it comes to respiratory diseases,” he continued.

“We’ve discovered that so many asthma sufferers don’t know how to properly use their inhaler.” As a result, they’re not getting the medicine they need during a flair-up or, worse, they’re not keeping a consistent amount of medication in their system to prevent attacks.

“We want to make sure that children and adults breathe easier, enjoy life, participate

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in activities, and lead a better quality of life—but also that we help reduce the cost of healthcare to families and businesses,” Snobarger added.

The ACEC has found that 62 percent of children affected by asthma don’t have an asthma management plan. They’re not aware of how they can live a normal life just be understanding their condition and the medicine they’re taking.

“The doctor’s role is to diagnose the condition and prescribe a medication to treat it,” Borradori continued. “But the business of medicine doesn’t allow for a lot of education. This organization will fill that void.”

The ACEC is located at 5601 Truxtun Avenue, Ste. 220. You can call their office, (661) 873-4031, to learn more about asthma and COPD and how you can help someone breathe a little easier. n

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Advanced Spinal Health, LLC Specializing in Instrument Adjustive Techniques Steven C. Salyers, D.C. Gregory R. Heyart,D.C. Kristal D. Shropshire, D.C. Providing exceptional care while they help more Kern County families in the coming years.

“We are proud to provide chiropractic care at affordable prices,” says Heyart. “Many patients are hesitant over concerns of discomfort,” explains Salyers, “but it’s a comfortable treatment experience for everyone from children to the elderly.”

(661) 327-2622 1001 Tower Way, Suite 130, Bakersfield, CA 93309

The Womens Care Center Armi Lynn Walker, M.D. Cary Shakespeare, M.D. The Marketplace 9000 Ming Avenue

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24 hour - ul listed monitoring center Check us out at... advancedsecurity.biz 128 Bakersfield Magazine

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Kern Health Resource Guide...

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Reach The People You Can Help • Physical Therapy • Hearing Aid Service • Massage Therapy • Pharmacy • Home Healthcare • Health Supplies • Laboratory Service Call Today • 834-4126

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 129

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Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory

SUNDAY SERVICES: Worship Service 9:00am & 10:30am

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ON BEHALF OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PARISH, WISHES TO CONGRATULATE THE BAKERSFIELD BUSINESS CONFERENCE FOR ITS STELLAR LINE-UP OF GUESTS THAT ARE THIS YEAR’S PARTICIPANTS AND FOR ONCE AGAIN BRINGING BAKERSFIELD INTO THE NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT.

MAY GOD BLESS ALL THOSE IN ATTENDANCE.

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everafters...

Xpressions by Michelle

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Garcia (Marina Garza) June 5th, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Sorensen (Amanda Pierce) June 18th, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Galvez (Esmeralda Victoria) June 5th, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Jared Coppolo (Lacey Roberts) July 23rd, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Jose Gilmar Rios (Maria Rubio) May 22nd, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Dustin McCaslin (Stephanie Unruh) June 5th, 2010

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 133

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Jessica Frey Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Dinsing (Emily Cabagbag) June 12th, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Atkins (Jacqueline Smith) June 19th, 2010

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Ladies and Gents

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Mr. & Mrs. Robert Robledo (Angelique Soto) May 22th, 2010

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Mr. & Mrs. Mike Johns (Kelli Groves) June 19th, 2010

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Party

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John & Demi Owens

Tom Crear & Kym Moore

Linda Polston & Peggy Darling

Buck Owens’ Star

Eager fans and a number of Buck Owens’ family and friends, gathered for the unveiling of his star on Bakersfield’s “Walk of Fame,” directly in front of the Fox Theater. The ceremony took place right outside the majestic theater a day before what would be Buck’s 81st birthday. The crowd cheered as the much deserved-star was revealed.

Bruce Jay & John Glentzer

Rick & Lillie Davis

Steve Hughes, Alysia Wilson & Amy Gargan

Heather Haro & Jennifer Overson

Rebeca Brower & Tabatha Keel

Pamela Clement, Jacque Jans & Angela Paquette

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Rosemary Hobbs & Tammy Reynolds

Maria Romero, Theresa Yorba & Kylie Pylman

Laura Kuster, Scott & Jeanne Tunnicliffe

Summer Social

Jennifer & Bryan Dials

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The Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Summer Social was a “totally awesome” triumph this year. Keeping with the theme of the 1980s, some guests dressed up while others simply reminisced of a time gone by. Still, everyone had the chance to dine on tasty treats and bid on all the wonderful silent auction items up for grabs.

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BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

Identity Theft:

America’s Fastest Growing Crime!

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Hot Summer Nights

Guests poured into NFL star Joey Porter’s beautiful home for an evening that won’t soon be forgotten. Those who were lucky enough to attend were treated to a savory dinner and a high-end silent auction with football memorabilia, vacation packages, and elegant jewelry. Proceeds from this event went toward BARC programs and the Jasmine Nyree Day Center.

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Skyler Blair

Mayor Hall

Larry Moxley & Lou Barbich

This annual event always adds a touch of class to early fall. Mayor Harvey L. Hall was the recipient of this year’s award for his contributions to Bakersfield’s community growth. Proceeds from the award’s ceremony help to fund the John Brock Endowment, which funds scholarships for students in CSUB’s School of Business and Public Administration.

Mary & Angelo Mazzei

Nicole & Jacob Panero

BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

Party

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Nirginia, Peyton, Paul, Klaryssa & Heather Herrera

Amy, Juliann, Brad Hunter, Berrigan Hunter & Dalton Bethell

Water Balloon Fight

The BHS Band Boosters knew the perfect way to cool down at the end of summer. In an attempt to break the world record for participants in a water balloon fight and to raise money for the BHS band program, they asked folks to get a little wet for a good cause (and afternoon of great entertainment, too).

Alex Sangster, Lauren Rivera & Ashley Rodriguez

Trace, Troy & Tim Nickell

Adela Mariscal

Brenda Mayer & Marissa Wood

Aurielle Morey, Adrianna Munoz & Sarah Rios

Ashley & Julia Roberts

Celia, Tyler & Cris Ames

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Tammy Cochran & Scott Whitehead

Linda Goad, Madison Davis & Jordynn Nusz

Mike & Vicki Schooter

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Heidi & Matt Idoux

Moonlight and Miracles

Kari, Wes & Andee Neal

Affected families and supporters gathered for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s annual event held under a starry sky at the Kern County Museum. The buffet-style dinner was a great hit as were the fabulous prizes featured in the silent auction and raffles. As guests mingled and bid on items, they were entertained by the country tunes of Tammy Cochran.

Sara Chaffin, Nhan Phan, & Amanda, Kyler & Dustin Wiltshire

Heather Nusz & Mckenzie Davis

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 137

bakersfield’s sound

d

Photo courtesy Bakersfield College archives

bakersfield memorial stadium september 1955

f you’re wondering why you feel the intense desire to put on a cable-knit sweater, even though it’s not technically sweater-weather here in Bakersfield, it’s because you sense that ever-elusive phenomenon known as “fall” approaching. But fall is a big deal in our town and it always has been...for one reason, in particular. Fall means football— we’re suckers for football. Bakersfieldians love the sound of a crisp snap, the sight of a soaring 60-yard pass, and the smell of victory in the air.

Take Memorial Stadium on the Bakersfield College campus as example of just how much we love our pigskin. When the college was relocating to its present location in 1955, the first thing built was the stadium. In fact, during that first term, students had to gather at the stadium (which was constructed at a cost of $1,161,000) to buy concessions for lunch as the cafeteria wasn’t completed yet. That’s right—we put football over food.

Memorial Stadium has gone on to play host to a number of Bakersfield’s most timehonored traditions and events including the Shriner’s Potato Bowl and the Red, White, and Boom fireworks display, not to mention being featured as one of few locations for a McDonald’s commercial promoting the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. It was also the stadium where the Cowboys and the 49ers met to play an NFL charity game called The Children’s Bowl in 1963. Perhaps more importantly, it’s also been the place where young athletes’ dreams have come true. It’s a place where rivalries are both created and put aside for the love of the game.

Still, no other city college team can boast numbers like ours. On numerous occasions, more than 20,000 rabid fans have packed the stands (and the grounds) to watch not only the ‘Gades, but local high school teams trample the grass with passion and fury.

Because when Red and White Fever grips you, it grips you hard. And it doesn’t let go.

the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen.

138 Bakersfield Magazine

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Fall 2010 139

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