Bakersfield Magazine • 29-5 • Kern Health / Cheap Eats

It’s a Miracle!

Lifesaving Drama VOL. 29 NO. 5

Legend of the Oriental Flying Dutchman

Hollywood Loves Kern Almond Joy Latte?

This Cup’s a Keeper PT. II: Wild, Wild Westerns

YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.

health 2012

$

3.95

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50 restaurants over

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to dine on a dime

15th Annual Presentation

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4 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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8 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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v

HEALTH 201 2

Try The Nines Restaurant for lunch.

Over 20 items to choose from for under $10.00

Contents

f e at u r e s

Cool, local finds that caught our eyes Stuff We Like........................22 He passed us the puck and his ten faves Can’t Live Without................25 The Muroc-Maru left its mark on history Oriental Flying Dutchman.....37 Yee-haw—Part II: The Wild, Wild, Westerns Filmed In Kern..................51

Why Be Happy for Just One Hour? ©istockphoto.com/finger

Enjoy your favorite drinks, signature cocktails and tasty appetizers all day long in the M.I. Greatroom. Happy Hour specials are $3 Drafts and $5 Well and Wine drinks.

It’s been a banner year for our hospitals Caring For You....................73 Amazing advances in local cancer care The Fight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 9

mediu

m

DINonINa G DIME

Exceptional care; extraordinary outcomes

Over 50 local places to be a frugal foodie!

59

Cheap Eats

Nothing Short of a Miracle

83

Well, someone’s in the kitchen with Yana Entertaining the Bakersfield Way...113

Bakersfield Marriott

When only the best will do!

661.565.9319

801 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, CA bakersfieldmarriott.com

The health benefits of four-legged friends

•Tips •Recipes •Restaurants

Pets saving lives

What’s on the menu tonight? Everything!

Flavors of kern

126

10 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

87

Here, lost dogs can find a forever home Furry Friends....................131 Giving Kern’s tiniest citizens a good start Wishes & Wonders.............133

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v

HEALTH 201 2

Contents

Realtor®

D E P ART M E N TS Time to turn and face the strange Letter from the Editor.............17

Find tranquility in your own backyard Home & Garden..............101

Discover some of the people behind this issue Featured Voices...............18

Outstanding Service Partner Department of Real Estate Award

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Escape to this historic seaside town!

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

www.JeanneRadsick.com 03/09/12

Things that make our county go round

Kern Facts

19

Great Getaways

103

‘Tis the season for dressing your best The Bakersfield Look.............33

Build a juicy burger the way you want What’s Cookin’................110 Sample big Cajun flavor in a little bowl Quick Bites....................112

This guy’s a longtime, local radio legend Citizen Kern.....................35

These wines will “bury” you in flavor Life is a Cabernet...........115

A company that planted its own success

An Almond Joy that’s better in a cup

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!...

SUNDAY & THURSDAY FOOTBALL TOO! Enjoy watching one of our 14 Screens or Two Huge Projection screens!

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KERN RISKTAKERS

39

Bottoms UP

119

Are work friendships good for business?

Human Resources.................44

So, where did our cameras catch you?

Party Chatter...................142

2012 lessons for a 2013 planting season Gardening With Mrs. P.........99

The oil boom’s big impact on big banking Bakersfield’s Sound........146

12 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

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KernHealth Profiles.......91

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Home & Garden.................101

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The Dining Guide The Dining Guide...............121

community partners Community Partners........130

Shoppers Bazaar..............138

everafters...

Weddings......................140

Den E R O m

Gfor Wo

In cooperation with Go Red for Women campaign

To Help Raise Awareness for Women’s Heart Health Featuring the 2013 Ladies in Red Photo Spread plus

Women& Business F E A T U R E

14 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

S E C T I O N

g in RY A m Co BRU 13 FE 20

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UNTY N CO KER

remembering

Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend

Vol. 29 No. 5

KernCountyGenerations.com A Website Dedicated To Chronicling Long-Standing and Family-Owned Kern County Businesses

Health 2012

Publisher Les Corum Executive Editor Mike Corum Assistant Editor Anika Henrikson Garden Editor Lynn Pitts Wine & Food Editor Mike Stepanovich Creative Director Chuck Barnes Graphic Artist Laura Turner Systems/Production Ryan Turner Sales & Marketing Lisa Corum, Erica Lindquist Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez Photography/Parties Tara Ralston Staff Writer Maryann Kopp Contributing Writers Tracie Grimes, David Nigel Lloyd Francis Mayer, Robin Paggi Donna McCrohan-Rosenthal Eman Shurbaji, Yana Todorova Accounting/Human Resources Melissa Galvan Distribution/Circulation Brigit Ayers Cover Photo Karramba Production Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. 1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Office (661) 834-4126 Fax (661) 834-5495 marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net www.bakersfieldmagazine.net

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Bakersfield Magazine is published bi-monthly by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2012 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 $14.95 for 1 year, $21.95 for 2 years.

Secure PayPal Gift Subscriptions BakersfieldMagazine.net

Letter from the Editor

Ch,ch,ch,ch,changes...

That there was once a full-size replica of a Japanese battleship in Kern County.

Page 37

Just how many great-tasting local choices we have for dining under $10.

Page 59

When it comes to change, I fear it as much as the next guy. Maybe more (just ask my wife). Sure, some changes are inevitable, and I usually agree after the fact that it was for the better. I mean, I finally got internet service that doesn't sound like a CB radio when you log in!

But change can be welcomed, too. Take, for instance, this issue of Bakersfield Magazine. If you've been a longtime reader, you'll notice a few subtle changes starting to evolve. For starters: the Editor’s Letter.

For the most part, I like to weave my life experiences in with the theme of each magazine—a little quirky anecdote followed by what you'll find in the issue, and ta-da, an “editorial manifesto.” But, I realize, it can't always be about me. Therefore we've redesigned the space a little while still allowing me to get my “quirk on” and, at the same time, highlight some of the cooler things I learned while putting this issue together. (Even though I've lived here most of my life, it's amazing how much I still learn each issue).

Another area of change is the addition of our Restaurant Listings (pg. 126) and Contributors Page (pg. 18). Although these were both introduced last issue, we took another look at them and decided they weren't quite up to our standards, so we went back to the drawing board and made even more refinements.

Now I think we've got a winner. I hope you'll agree.

Speaking of change, this past year was full of a lot of great changes within our medical community, and this being our 15th Annual KernHealth Edition (pg. 71), we again talked with hospitals, cancer centers, and healthcare providers to get the inside scoop on some of those changes. Those of us living in Kern County are very fortunate to have such cuttingedge resources available to us locally.

Happy Holidays and Enjoy!

That man’s best friend can do more than provide companionship—a dog can help with healing.

Page 87

Mike Corum comments@BakersfieldMagazine.net

On a sad note...As we were putting the finishing touches on this issue, we learned of the passing of Dr. Romain P. Clerou.

He was not only a dear friend of my grandparents (having attended high school with them), he was also our family physician for many, many years and was featured on the September 1999 cover, as well. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and the thousands that were touched by this unique individual. —Mike

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Yana Todorova

Francis Mayer

Born and raised in Bulgaria, she grew up cooking with her mother and grandmother. Those experiences inspired a passion for good food and a love of cooking.

She considers herself a foodie, a cook, and a great hostess. When she is not tasting new recipes and eating delicious homemade meals, she’s teaching mathematics at California State University, Bakersfield.

Mr. Mayer is an independent content producer. If you’ve listened to the radio, watched TV, or read a newspaper or magazine in Bakersfield at any time in the past 10 years, chances are good you’ve been exposed to his work.

He regularly writes for Bakersfield Magazine and bayareasportsguy.com.

“Entertaining the Bakersfield Way” page 113 Favorite comfort food: Homemade thin-crust pizza.

Do you always follow recipes to the exact measurement?

Only if I am trying a recipe for the first time…which is often.

What should people do first when planning a party? Plan the menu and test the recipes a few days before the party, not on the same day.

A common cooking mistake most people make: Many people don’t taste their food as they are cooking it. Thus, the resulting meal could be an unpleasant surprise.

Tracie Grimes Tracie spent most of her career in the health care field in public relations and marketing before stepping into the freelance writing arena.

In addition to being a monthly contributor to local publications, she also works for Fresno Pacific University as a graduate representative. She lives in Bakersfield with her husband, four children, two cats, and two dogs.

“Risktakers— Valpredo Farms” page 39 Favorite subject to write about: Green energy and all the cool companies coming to the thriving metropolis of Bakersfield.

Two words to describe Don Valpredo:Vivacious and engaging.

Best advice you’ve ever heard during an interview:Written on the back of Don Valpredo’s card: “If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way; if you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”

Favorite word: Bazanga (I’m a big fan of The Big Bang Theory).

18 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

“Citizen Kern” page 35 Best advice you’ve received from another writer: “Don’t Try.” It’s on Charles Bukowski’s headstone. It’s up for interpretation, but I think he meant “do it.” Whether it’s writing a book, talking to a woman, or applying for a job, you should be in the mode of “doing” and not “trying.”

How would you describe your style?

I try to write stuff that would amuse my wife, my mother, and a few guys I grew up with. My mother is pretty edgy, my wife has a good BS detector, and my buddies are smart and funny.

That pretty much covers everything.

Isabel Alvarez She’s not only the photographer for the magazine—she is also in charge of several regular features including the Bakersfield Look and Stuff We Like. Outside of the magazine, she assists Valdophye Photography with weddings. Her current obsessions are photography (obviously), fashion, nail polish, and a newly-discovered hobby: cooking!

“Cheap Eats” page 59 Favorite food to photograph: I certainly like eating them more than I like shooting them, but I would say salads and sandwiches are my favorite to shoot.

Breads and colorful greens always photograph well.

Favorite local lunch special: A top contender is the filling Bento Box at Enso.

Best happy hour: This is an easy one!

La Mina Cantina.

You can’t go wrong with $2.50 margaritas and $2.50 appetizers.

Favorite photo shoot in 2012: August’s Sizzlin’ Singles shoot.

Kern Facts

People • Places • Events

He’s a Project Consultant with Valley Clean Air Now and she recently retired as CEO of the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and is currently a Trainer at P.A.S. Associates, so this couple knows how to keep our community, and their relationship, strong as can be.

HIS

& Hers

What was the first thing you thought when you met your future spouse for the first time?

Tony: I walked into her office by mistake, thinking I was at the real estate office a co-worker had suggested to me. Debbie pointed me to the correct office. I walked out, took about six steps, and thought how nice she was, she had the nicest smile, and was so personable. I turned around, walked back into her office, and asked her to help me find a house.

Debbie: I immediately liked him. He came into my place of business by mistake. My first impression was that he was polite, friendly, and had a great smile.

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

Tony: I can’t remember a particular “ha-ha” moment that stands out but there were many moments of laugh-

ter. I love making Debbie laugh and she must have enjoyed all the one liners and my goofy behavior because we have been married 24 years now.

Debbie: He bought me three rings at the jewelry mart in L.A. for Christmas one year, each nicer than the last.

Unfortunately for him he could not wait until Christmas and gave me all three of them before the holiday. So of course he had to go buy something else to give me on Christmas.

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

Tony: Back when I was skydiving, Deb, with no solicitation from me, decided she wanted to make a jump from a King Air from 14,000 feet. I asked her what made her decide to skydive and she replied that she wanted to experience and understand why I enjoyed the sport so much.

Debbie: The craziest in recent history

in step with:

Debbie & Tony Moreno

was a big, heavy gift under the tree last year at Christmas. It turned out to be a case of Rombauer Chardonnay, my favorite wine. We vowed to use it just for special occasions. I still cannot believe how many evenings we managed to claim were “special occasions” in a short space of time!

What is your spouse’s biggest phobia?

Tony: Well, based on the prior question, it isn’t a fear of heights! But we live somewhat in the country and I’ve had to save her from the large bugs that sometimes invade the house.

Debbie: None that I know of.

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

Tony: Well, because, more often than not, I’m the one who’s wrong, I’m normally the first.

Debbie: It’s not hard to admit when you’re wrong and we both are good at that, but the problem is we both rarely think we are wrong!

What is your spouse most passionate about?

Tony: When she was a young woman, she was passionate about dancing.

She danced for years and then passed her passion along through years of teaching ballet. More recently she’s developed a passion for reading.

Debbie: Family (because nothing’s more important to him), but also photography.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Bakersfield?

Tony: Bakersfield has way too many great things to offer, so picking a favorite is tough. But I have to say that we enjoy dining out together and Bakersfield has so many wonderful places to experience. I’ve been eating at Noriega’s since the ‘70s.

Debbie: Enjoy the area around where we live. We are in Rio Bravo, near Lake Ming and even though we are in the city limits, it feels like we live in the country.

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

Tony: It drives me crazy that Deb feels she always has to make sure I lock the car, close the windows, turn off the stove top, and remember to take my wallet; it drives me crazier that I need the help! My favorite thing about Debbie? I could talk about so many of the wonderful qualities I admire about her, but I’d have to say, her legs.

Debbie: I want it on record that this was the hardest question for me to come up with an answer (the least favorite part). But in the end I have to say that he’s such a neat freak, that if I don’t clean up my stuff fast enough for him, he does it for me…and that’s not always a good thing. My favorite thing about Tony is that he spoils me and takes care of me.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 19

Kern Facts Whatcha waitin’ for?

O

h, the holidays. We have been busy giving our loyal readers fabulous gift certificates, baskets, and tickets to some of the most exclusive events in town these past months! The best part? We see no end to the giving in sight.

Why? We love seeing your shining faces.

It really does pay to be a part of our A-List. It’s our little way to keep the thankful and giving spirit strong yearround! Visit bakersfieldmagazine.net for more winners or to join the A-List today.

Jenifer Garrity

A-List Contest Winner Monique Eubanks Bakersfield Uncorked Wine Fest Tickets Maggie Cushine Marissa Royal Jim Luff Christina Bustamante Tisha Fuentes Mike George Golden Empire Gleaners Harvest Celebration Tickets Kathryn Lozano Linda Witt Jane Bunk Denise Juarez

Scary for Charity Tickets Karen Roberts Jenifer Garrity Paula Williams Steve Lewis Stuff We Like Erin Lunn

Kiss Me Photo Booth

Patricia Cervantes Eva’s Boutique

Leticia Pimentel Snead’s For Men

Andy Lagasse

Gimmee Some Sugar

Paige Winders Bikersfield

Julie LaBauve The Cookie Jar

ArtFest Basket Winner Lisa Araya

photo by Antandrus

We hope you enjoy our family favorites from my mother’s kitchen to our unique culinary creations. Expand your taste buds, close your eyes and capture the essence of Camino Real.

Mike George

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20 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Did You Know?

The Buena Vista Petroleum District was first organized on February 13, 1865.

Source: Historic Chronology of Kern County

©istockphoto.com/linzyslusher

A

List e x tra

dining on us!

we’re big fans of ot sure if you’ve noticed, but cially fun this time giving gifts around here. It seems espe e ready to give away of year. ‘Tis the season, right? Well, we’r l restaurant to a member a $100 gift certificate to a great loca ber of our A-List, visit of our A-List. If you’re not a mem y for free. If you are on bakersfieldmagazine.net to sign up toda $100 gift the list, get ready. You’re playing for a you see if So, . toria certificate to Uricchio’s Trat il us at ema to first the your name listed below, be ll win! you’ and t e.ne alist@bakersfieldmagazin

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Arlene Vega Bob Wilson Amy Neumann Stephanie Moss

Jacque Bopp Donavon Gabriel Michael Fowler Larry Hurtado

*contest eligibility for A-List members who have

Jose Cruz Susan Lenk Sherry Kirsch David Gordon

not won in the last three months

UNIQUELY BAKERSFIELD

Silver and gold are not the only colors to use when you trim your tree this year. Once again, the Exchange Club of Bakersfield is selling oneof-a-kind, limitededition, Bakersfieldthemed Christmas ornaments.

It’s only the third year in a row that the Club has offered these ornaments, but they’ve already become a family tradition for some locals. The first edition ornament had a beautiful picture of the Bakersfield Inn on it, and last year’s ornament depicted the Beale Clock Tower.

“This year, it’s the Fox Theater,” said Larry Hiestand, current president of the Exchange Club. “The funds from the ornaments help the Club raise money for community service projects.”

There are various locations around town where you can pick up this year’s ornament (including Beads Unique, the Board of Trade, Flower Bar, and Rambling Rose Interiors), but you should hurry, these collector’s items move fast!

Visit bakersfieldchristmas ornament.com for more information!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 21

Kern Facts

stuff

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Be the envy of friends and family!

Impress your neighbors and co-workers!

Get your name in your city magazine and your photo on the world-wide web... best of all

WIN $75 gift certificates

from these featured local merchants!

Log on to BakersfieldMagazine.net for details and entry form.

Good Luck!

Sergio Zelcer Shoes, $172-196 Kaur Boutique 9000 Ming Ave. #I-2 (661) 664-7800

Custom 14kt White Gold/Amethyst Cross, $4,990 Don Hall Jewelers 600 Coffee Rd. (661) 832-5200 7x10 Photo Puzzle, $16.95 Digital Creations 1705 20th St. (661) 322-5552

NuFace/Non-invasive Facial Lifting & Toning, $325 La Dolce Vita 2100 19th St. # B (661) 861-4900 22 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

6-inch German Chocolate Cake, $40 Frosting, Inc. 1818 G St. (661) 326-1818

Boomtown Art Scene R

By Donna McCrohan Rosenthal

acrylics and watercolors by impressionist Greg Gilbert, digital painting by Fred Hartson, Old West photography

by Tom O’Donnell, and wire and glass sculpture by Richard Olson. Erma Lee Maw, a Chocktaw Native American, transforms discarded pieces of metal and wood into true whimsical folk art.

Randall “Hoot” Smith runs Randsburg Art Gallery (randsburgartgallery.com). Watercolorist and photographer Cheryl McDonald, with her own gallery (cherylmcdonaldart.com), has planned workshops that will provide further reason to investigate this com-

it home. Their talent combined with Randsburg’s independent spirit have made the place popular with weekend tourists.

Surrounded on Butte Avenue by weathered mining structures, colorfully painted buildings such as the Joint, Rand Desert Museum, Randsburg Opera House, and General Store with its elaborate 1904 soda fountain, art galleries display work in a range of media — including large-scale metal sculpture by Daniel Elliott,

munity with a full-time population of 80, spittoons, hitching posts, a house made of garage doors, and another guarded not just by a scarecrow but by a bevy of lifelike characters from The Wizard of Oz. Randsburg has appeared in movies starring Johnny Depp and Jean-Claude Van Damme, and in Dwight Yoakam and Kenny Loggins music videos.

For more information, visit randsburg.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY RANDSBURG GENERAL STORE

andsburg, once one of the great boomtowns of the Old West, sits off highway 395 just south of Ridgecrest.

Together with the neighboring towns, Red Mountain and Johannesburg, it often goes by the nickname “Gold Belt of Kern County.”

Visiting this “living ghost town” takes you back a century to its heyday, when the Yellow Aster Mine produced $12,000,000 in gold and not many years later, the Kelly, or California Rand near Red Mountain, accounted for more than $13,000,000 of silver. Today creative souls seem to thrive there and a number of artists call

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 23

Kern Facts

Santa is always in Town Comprehensive and Advanced Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments

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John Fowler is making his list and checking it twice. And, with a little holiday magic (and emails from parents), he knows who’s been good and who’s been bad.

That’s because Fowler is a member of the Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas (FORBS) and he’s the only one in Bakersfield. That means he’s living the Santa Claus life 365 days a year.

“FORBS is fun,” Fowler said. “It’s easy to get cynical in this day and age, so it’s wonderful to be a part of something that keeps wonder alive yearround.” That includes summertime reunions when huge groups of Santas will visit theme parks in southern California…or flash mob an In-N-Out Burger.

How did this charismatic man go from junior high teacher to full-time Santa?

In 2005, Fowler joined the cast of the Spotlight Theatre’s Miracle on 34th Street as Kris Kringle. People began seeking him out—asking if he would come to their homes and portray Santa for their children. A postretirement career was born. “I do get a little depressed the day

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after Christmas,” he said, laughing. But his calendar gets booked up with parties and private clients starting early the following year. He’s also been tapped to play Santa in a national commercial for Windows 8 and ABC this year. “I am basically checking off who’s been naughty and who’s been nice.

I’m really pleased; I’ve wanted to do a national commercial for years.” The commercial will air on ABC during the show Suburgatory in the coming weeks.

Still, for Fowler, it’s not about capitalizing on a few months of joy; it’s about holding on to the spirit of giving and teaching children to keep believing in the magic of Christmas all year long.

“I have parents who’ll email me details about their children so that when I meet them, I can really connect with these kids and keep them thinking that Santa is something wonderful to believe in.”

k Community Number of acres in the Silver Cree d.

Roa is Harr on plex Com ter Cen nical Rescue Total number of people on the Tech ent. artm Dep Team of the Bakersfield Fire

Score Bakersfield’s first female police officer, Mary Holman, received on her entrance test.

East Bakersfield was 1909 Yearially incorporated into offic Bakersfield. ar value of the Sears 20,000 Doll Director’s Cup (made of Waterford Crystal), awarded to CSUB in 1998 for having a premier athletic program.

100

of money generated by

unt 139,000,000 Amo out-of-towners visiting retail

.

establishments in Kern County in 1992

u; KernCountyBoardofTrade.com Sources: Bakersfieldcity.us; CSUB.ed

24 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

TOP

10

In & Around B•Town

Can’t Live Without

Ryan Holt, the Manager of Media Relations and Broadcasting for the Bakersfield Condors, passes us the puck and the ten things he can’t do without.

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies I love them with just a little oatmeal, but no raisins. I baked them once and, I have to say, they came out pretty decent.

10

1

iPad

I take it everywhere and it’s kind of my lifeline to the world.

2

9

Golf Clubs

Pepperoni Pizza

When I’m not at the rink, I’m on the golf course.

Even though I’m from Chicago, I like it with thin crust.

A Good Book My favorite series is The Wheel of Time

by Robert Jordan.

5 It’s the game I’ve loved my whole life and to be able to play it professionally has always been a dream of mine.

Xbox

I don’t play a lot out in Bakersfield because the weather is nice, but when I was in Cleveland and it snowed all the time, I would play, like, eight hours a day.

Summer Weather

My favorite season.

I enjoy swimming in the ocean and it’s great having almost year-round summer weather here.

Hockey

3

4

8

Dr. Pepper It’s got that bite and soothes the throat.

6

7 Dairy Queen Blizzards I have a sweet tooth.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 25

Ancient Dolphin Creates “Wave” of Excitement

E

Photos provided by Lisa Tohill

Kern Facts

Flipper’s Friend

veryone around here knows that Sharktooth Hill is a hotbed of paleontological discoveries. That was even apparent to Lisa Tohill and her husband when they purchased the quarry two years ago.

“We started exploring and looking around,” Tohill said of their arrival and subsequent explorations. “It’s funny because you hear stories of how people have to dig and dig to find something interesting, but in January of last year, I just sat down on the ground “I want to keep a lot of that treasure right here in Kern County so people can appreciate how amazing our area is.”

—Lisa Tohill

and scooped two piles of dirt away with a hand shovel and I hit something.”

Tohill is referring to the fossilized dolphin skull she discovered in the bonebed that has since been categorized as a new species, and dated as existing 15.5 million years ago! The find was even featured on an episode of America’s Lost Treasures.

Unlike the dolphins we are familiar with, this new species had relatively small eyes that were angled somewhat forward and small nostrils.

“The bonebed is amazing out there,” Tohill said.

15.5 million year old fossilized dolphin recently found at Sharktooth Hill.

“Bakersfield has this world renowned treasure in their backyard.”

Currently, the dolphin skull, which was deemed “globally significant to science,” by Dr. Lawrence G. Barnes, a renowned curator emeritus of vertebrate paleontology at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, is in Los Angeles on display. But many of the items Tohill finds arrive at Buena Vista Museum of Natural History.

“We love working with Buena Vista,” Tohill added.

“We work with [the museum] because we want to find out more about the area…there are so many species that can be discovered and I want to keep a lot of that treasure right here in Kern County so people can appreciate how amazing our area is.”

Did You Know?

It was on January 17, 1937, that the first stateregistered landmark dedication took place in Kern County.

The landmark was Gordon’s Ferry on the Kern River.

26 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Source: Historic Chronology of Kern County

expressions

Local

People • Places • Events

O

nce upon a time there was a very shy home-schooler named Ursula.

One day, her parents took her to Curran Middle School to join the school’s mariachi band. She did not want to go. Couldn’t her parents understand that she was a dancer, not a guitarist?

She could quit the band, her mother promised, after three weeks. Unfortunately, during the second week, Mr. Rodriguez, the band teacher, brought out some girls’ charro suits and sombreros—all black and silver—to make sure there was one to fit her. Her will to quit was weakening.

“Every student brings a life story that is tacit,” said Richard Rodriguez who, at age 59, has taught Curran’s mariachi class for 30 years.

By week three, Ursula had forgotten all about quitting. She had, in fact, just begun

her lifelong passion for Mexican music and dance. However, she was still ambivalent about the fact that her father (who now writes the Local Expressions column for Bakersfield Magazine) kept bringing his guitar to class to learn, too.

Richard Rodriguez, who also teaches orchestra, Steel Drum Band, and West African Drum & Dance at Curran, received the Multicultural Music Educator of the Year Award from the California Association for Music Education in 2004. The New York Times requested him then to advise on an in-depth article on mariachi music in schools. “This culminated in the National Music Teachers’ Association calling for a special area of concentration on mariachi,” he said.

Next, the Bakersfield native found

himself at the University of Washington guest-lecturing for the ethnomusicology department. Finally, Rodriguez gained the alliance of Dr. Dan Sheehy, one of the world’s foremost authorities on Mexican folk music, the head of Smithsonian/ Folkways Records (the Nation’s record label) and—wouldn’t you know it—a proud alumnus of Curran Middle School.

Ursula attended the band’s annual field trip to the Fresno Mariachi Festival for a day of professional master classes. “Dad,” she called home excitedly, “Mariachi is amazing! Everything is in Spanish.

I can’t understand a word and I can’t wait to show you what I learned!” She had learned a right hand rasqueado, or strum, that still stumps her father.

By the school year’s end, the Curran mariachis had become a band that listens to each other and plays together. “It is a daily challenge,” insisted Rodriguez, “to let music do its magic and stay out of the way.”

A product of Bakersfield’s school music programs, Rodriguez received no private music instruction until after high school. He experienced the first inklings of becoming a music teacher himself during junior high band class.

At Bakersfield College Rodriguez studied with Howard Quilling and Dale Brooks.

“They could not have prepared me better,” he said.

He was accepted as a saxophone performance major at USC when the faculty included Jascha Heifetz.

“While I had enjoyed professional playing opportunities in LA,” Rodriguez recalled, “I still had teaching as my love

By David Nigel Lloyd

and returned to Bakersfield, took the National Teachers’ Exam in music, and have never looked back.”

However, he feels that today’s educational emphasis “on testing has marginalized the arts.” Rodriguez is encouraged, however, to see what he feels is “a significant change at the national level in terms of music equity concerning areas such as urban music and various ethnic traditional arts.”

Now, only two years from retirement, he and Cheryl, his wife of 32 years, have seen their two children safely into adulthood. “I have plans to bring performing more into my life,” he said.

“Writing, reading, and speaking about music are so important but all are secondary to doing.”

–Richard Rodriguez

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 27

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Kern Facts

I

Sun Power

f you’re seeking world-class engineering and an en vironmentally sound way to get around town, there’s one local group that has you covered. Riverbend Bik es, Boards, & Bites is providing, in the words of Sales Associate Zach ery Griffin, “Bakersfield solutions for Bakersfield,” particularly in the transp ortation department. In their “Imag inarium” they engineer solar-powered two- and four-seater bikes for tho se of us who want to get around tow n the green (and fun) way.

“Our solar bikes ge t people “This is an affordable out biking who would transportan’t do so, tion option,” said Griffin. “It cou otherwise,” said Rich Wi ld ver y lson, project we ll reduce costs in health manager for WZI, Inc—t fees and he company flee t issues. We believe tha which owns the shop. t these “Instead of bikes could do a lot of good driving to get groceries for our or taking the loc al environment, and we kids to school, people kept that can get into in mind the entire time we one of these bikes, get were deit going, and sig ning them.” enjoy the outdoors with their family.”

Wilson confirmed that this The bikes, which can rea ser vice ch up to 20 they provide is truly unique to miles per hour, come eq ou r city, uipped with and that the company looks seat belts for every rider. for ward The electric to pro viding even more option motor is actually locate s in the d inside one fut ure. (The current mode of the back wheels an ls took just d there is a a yea r to get to the productio solar panel on the top wh n level.) ich fuels the Lucki ly for them, it’s just a ma vehicle while providing sha tter of de. imagination.

Sweet Surprise

E

veryone in town knows that Jim Balmain—co-owner of Smith's Bakeries— can whip up some of the most delicious treats around. But t-shirt designer? Perhaps if you shop at Snead's for Men! “We are lucky enough to count Jim Balmain as a long-time customer of Snead's,” said Laurie Howlett, co-owner. She went on to detail how Balmain came into their store one day wearing one of his original designs, and they knew they had to carry them right away.

“I've been designing shirts since the 1970s, starting with bicycle shirts,” Balmain detailed. Currently, this busy “Renaissance man,” as Howlett calls him, makes shirts that span the gamut, from characters playing electric guitars and making statements on excess in the '80s to graphics from the children's books he writes. “This isn't something I do for a living,” he said, “but I have so many ideas that I would drive myself crazy if I didn't do something with them.”

You can find Balmain's rockin' designs at Snead's for Men throughout the year, but these unique shirts are “first come, best dressed,” Howlett said with a chuckle. So get 'em while they're hot.

28 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

In & Around B•Town

1, 2, 3, Chickadee!

ook, up in the sky!

It’s a bird! It’s a—,” Wait, it really is a bird. And, according to Ali Sheehey, a local nature enthusiast and a representative for the Kern Audubon Society, about 445 different species in Kern County have been cataloged throughout the years during the Christmas Bird Count. This annual, national event is celebrating its 113th year of surveying man’s wild, winged friends.

“The Christmas Bird Count was started by Frank Chapman on Christmas Day in 1900,” Sheehey elaborated.

Chapman was an ornithologist who saw a dire need to preserve wildlife, as Side Hunts were very popular during the holidays before the turn of the century.

“He and twenty-six other people banded together to start a census on what started as both birds and mammals. In time, it was decided that it was too hard to track all of the animals that were being killed, so it became just a bird census.”

These counts, however, are not for the birds, so to speak!

They serve a very useful purpose.

Sheehey described them as being,

Photo by Alison Sheehey

L

“

Cedar Waxwing “both a sport and science. This is actual scientific research, so it can be a lot of fun, but it can also be tedious. People who are looking for a laid-back bird watching experience should probably not go on one of these counts as their first foray in birding.”

There are nine different counts that take place throughout Kern County, with an area totaling 177 miles being covered.

Participants are split into teams to ensure the best coverage.

While the counts have been going on nationally since 1900, they’ve been taking place in Kern as local tradition from as early as 1949.

No longer held on Christmas day, a complete schedule of the dates of the Christmas Bird Counts and contact information for those heading them can be found on Sheehey’s website at natureali.org/CBCs/kerncbcs.htm.

POP QUIZ P

ut on your , thinking caps th r fo is folks, it’s time t your We’re going to pu issue’s Pop Quiz. with st te kersfield to the knowledge of Ba ow kn u w well do yo this one. So just ho re he w you can tell us your city? See if s se es o. Send your gu we took this phot e. in kersfieldmagaz to comments@ba be ct, your name will net. If you’re corre ing for a placed in the runn .

Russo’s Books $ 30 gift card to er: Last issue’s answ wn to wn do nce, Sill Building entra

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 29

Kern Facts

Who Knew?

F

or those who didn’t know just how fun and different Bakersfield can be, we have to! something worth raising your glass are n tow in ts uran Over 300 bars and resta carrying 250,000 coasters that you can only find here, in Bakersfield. The best stpart? There are 10 different coa que uni ure feat ers, and they all . facts about our own city on them BaA partnership between the Greater ee kersfield Vision 2020 Image Committ ler, lesa who sch r-Bu and local Anheuse Advance Beverage Company, brought ote the Committee’s fun idea to prom n their Who Knew Bakersfield campaig esprof l loca of p to light. “We’re a grou ge sionals who strive to improve the ima tiviof our community and promote posi ty about Bakersfield, especially amongst t locals who may have forgotten the grea a rici Pat attributes of our city!” said Marquez, marketing and communications specialist for Kern Economic Development Corporation.

The campaign is all about putting Bat. kersfield’s quirky side on the forefron ng When they aren’t posting interesti ’re they , page k boo tidbits on their Face tdesigning collectibles like these coas ks drin ers for citizens to set their cold the on while educating themselves on y (The ity. mun com cooler aspects of our get you if use truly are collectibles, beca rd all 10, then the Committee will awa the you with some nifty gear bearing a “In ) nia! insig eld” “I Love Bakersfi Vi“the d, lude nutshell,” Marquez conc to sion 2020 Image Committee is trying put the spotlight on our quirkiness. We t should be proud of the things tha !” que make Bakersfield uni Become savvy on the lesser-known truths about Bakersfield (while you save your wood furniture). We’ll toast to that!

30 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Skilled Hands

to tree or

Not toTree...

T hat may be the question that “leaves” many people guessing for a number of reasons, but for Conway Lopez, he hasn’t had to ask himself that since September of 1986. “My father started General Tree Service in 1945. I was about twenty-six when he passed. I would work with him when I wasn’t in school, but

I didn’t really care for it that much. After he passed away, I felt it was my calling to continue the business and to properly maintain trees in Bakersfield.”

Lopez had a great vision for what he wanted to accomplish when he took his father’s place in the business. His mother, Francis, remembers when it was just her and her husband, using tools like a two-man crosscut saw. “We did it the hard way.

One of us would be on the ground to hold the rope so that the other could swing from tree to tree. If we had to remove a stump, we would dig around with with shovels, tie a rope around it, and then pull it out.

We didn’t have anything near what the company has now.”

Indeed, when he decided that

he was going to take the family business over, he chose to be one of the few people in Kern County to actually become a certified arborist. He failed his first bout at the 200 question test, but was determined. He studied hard and passed his second try.

This certification is one of the many things that puts Lopez at the top of his class. He takes his love of trees seriously, and you can see it not only in his work, but also in his method. Fervently against topping trees—over pruning which inevitably destroys the specimen—he takes great pride in making trees beautiful and focuses on longevity.

“If I can save a tree, that’s the greatest feeling, and one of the best parts of my job. If people call with a challenging problem that only an expert arborist can handle, I go in and I take care of the situation as best I can.”

When he goes to prune a tree, he first assesses any hazards that may be present. He checks for crossing branches or anything that may pose as an obstacle. Finally, when he gets to the actual trimming, he does so while trying to do anything he can to make the tree look as aesthetically pleasing as possible. “I try to make a beautiful, strong, structured tree.

When done properly, the tree will remain healthy and strong. Over pruning greatly reduces the life of a tree. It can make a tree with the lifespan of one hundred years live for only thirty.” The size of the tree doesn’t interfere with the process, as he can utilize the equipment they have to reach most any height.

Lopez’s expertise certainly doesn’t stop with beautification of trees. He can diagnose a sick tree with a few simple gestures.

“I have come to realize that most problems with trees may show

“If I can save a tree, that’s the greatest feeling, and one of the best parts of my job.­­”—Conway Lopez at the top, but they start in the roots—the bottom of the tree contains the root of the problem,” he revealed. Lopez loves getting his hands dirty, and he isn’t afraid to admit it.

When diagnosing a tree, he will reach deep into the soil and “feel what’s going on with the tree. A lot of the time, all I have to do is squeeze the soil and show my customer how overwatering can do a lot of harm to trees.”

He detailed how he helped to remove a centuries-old oak tree that had become a hazard near a street in Lebec. The tree was five feet in diameter and decaying. Lopez had to ensure that it was removed without

creating any damage to the surrounding area. He had to do a “face cut” to the tree so that it would fall safely. He is always hands-on when it comes to the more dangerous situations his company faces. As far as transplanting goes, his equipment and methods ensure that he can move almost any size tree from one locale to another without causing any damage to it.

Lopez’s love for trees started with his father and stays with him to this day. “This is my passion—I can’t imagine doing anything else. One day I hope that my four kids will get involved in the business, as well.” For the sake of the trees in Kern County, here’s to hoping they do!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 31

32 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Sara Contreras, 23 Occupation: Operations Assistant Are you a Bakersfield Native?

Yes, I was born here.

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

I would have to say I absolutely cannot live without ChapStick and mascara.

Do you think Bakersfield has a style?

Yes. I would say Bakersfield has a laid-back, comfy style.

Describe your personal style.

My personal style depends on my mood. I think, for the most part, it is a casual, classic look. I love wearing jeans!

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

An hour, give or take.

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

I love, love, love Kim Kardashian’s style.

What are you wearing?

I am wearing my favorite Seven For All Mankind jeans, Old Navy blouse and jacket, Charlotte Russe boots and necklace, Michael Kors’ watch, and my ALDO clutch.

Does your style change when you are not at work?

Yes, a bit more comfy. Jeans, T-shirt, or gym clothes.

How do you personalize your “business” look?

With some different accessories— either bracelets, a watch, or earrings.

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield?

A few of my favorite places to shop are Kaur Boutique, Cotton On, Express, Chica’s, and Forever 21.

What is your favorite item of clothing?

Jeans…hands down. I can either dress them up or down.

What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made?

There was a time when all the girls at school wanted highlights in their hair. Well, I decided to follow the trend and added thick blonde streaks to my hair.

It came out horrible!

Are you a bargain hound?

I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m a bargain hound, however I am definitely up for a cute, cheap buy.

If it’s cute—great! If it’s cute and I’m getting a bargain —even better!

What mistakes do you think men make when they dress?

I think a lot of men make the mistake of wearing shoes that do not go with their outfit.

The right pair of shoes is key to looking great!

FASHION TIP: Hey guys... the right pair of shoes is key.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 33

34 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

!

CITIZEN KERN

Name: Doug DeRoo Age: 61 Birthplace: Redlands, CA Title: Professional Disc Jockey and Radio Personality

Spinning records locally for decades— you know the voice.

We sat down with this DJ to get to know the man...

Career Highlights: Despite doing radio in Los Angeles for a few years, with a view of Dodger Stadium and all the bright lights that come with working in the pop culture capital of the world, DeRoo’s favorite professional accomplishment came in Bakersfield. “I came to Bakersfield in 1972 to do Top 40 on KERN. One thing that’s always going to stick out in my mind was the day we managed to take KERN radio from worst to first. Ed Urner owned KERN back then, and he couldn’t believe his radio station was number one. He was crying.

Back in those days, the owner of the radio station was actually in the building. He’d slap you on the back, hand you a hundred bucks and a bottle of scotch, and tell you ‘great job!’ But those days are long gone.”

meet

Doug

‘‘

DeRoo

‘‘

His favorite part of the industry: “You can go in any direction that you want, creatively. Even after all these years, it’s still wide open. If you can come up with a better mousetrap, then do it. The best idea wins.”

Photos Courtesy of DOUG DEROO, KERN RADIO, and KFXM.

How he got started: “Four generations of DeRoos were farmers. My dad couldn’t figure out why I didn’t want to go to work for the Farm Bureau. He said ‘It’s a government job, and they give you a free car.’

But my mom encouraged it. By the time I was in junior high I knew I wanted to be a disc jockey. When I got my driver’s license, I’d hang out with the all-night guy at a station in San Bernardino and file his oldies records. Eventually they realized I wasn’t going away, and they gave me a job mailing out contest prizes for KFXM.”

If you can come up with a better mousetrap, then do it. The best idea wins.

His heroes: “Al Anthony at KFXM was the first person who ever gave me a paycheck.

Buck Owens was an inspirational person.

I liked to watch him wander around the radio station, and when he had an idea, he’d do it. The guy got stuff done. He’d come up with some of the strangest promotional ideas, and they always worked.

Folks would question some of the ideas but more often than not...well, it worked.”

What he’d still like to accomplish: “Well, I figure with the way broadcasting pays, I’ll have everything paid off by the time I’m 112. There’s no retirement in broadcasting.

But I didn’t get into this for money. I’ll do this as long as they can wheel me in. What I’d really like to see is for the economy to improve so people can get hired again.”

DeRoo does occasional voice-over work and is looking for another full-time gig.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 35

36 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

he area we know today as Edwards Air Force Base has a very colorful history indeed.

Before the Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in 1876, this area of the Mojave Desert was occupied by the occasional drifting prospector searching for wealth…and a few Joshua trees. In 1882, according to Edwards’ website, “the Santa Fe Railroad ran a line westward from Barstow toward Mojave and building a water stop at the edge of an immense dry lakebed.” The stop became known as “Rod” because the lakebed had been named Rodriguez Dry Lake, quite the mouthful.

As is the case with many family names in early 1900s America, Rodriguez was Anglicized to Rodgers and finally shorted to Rogers…hence the name most of us recognize today: Rogers Dry Lake.

When the Corum family arrived at the lakebed in 1910, they immediately set out to cultivate the area. They raised alfalfa and turkeys but they also began helping other homesteaders locate property for a fee of $1 per acre. As more

settlers arrived, the Corum brothers began offering more services to residents, earning contracts for drilling water wells and clearing land. Later, they opened a general store and post office,

Dryden Flight Research Center and Edwards Air Force Base next to the Rogers Dry Lake. photo courtesy of nasa

the latter of which would prove to secure the family’s place in local history.

The post office stop could not be named “Corum” because there was already a Coram, California. The family simply reversed the spelling of their name and called the stop “Muroc.” Over the next two decades, more and more settlers would set up homesteads in the area, all the while thinking that the nearby Rogers Dry Lakebed was useless.

How wrong they all were—the true historical significance of “Muroc” and Rogers Dry Lakebed was yet to be revealed.

Lt. Col. H.H. “Hap” Arnold, an Airman commanding March Field in Riverside, was first to realize the potential of the area to be a “natural aerodrome.” So, in September 1933, Arnold and a small advance party from March Field established the Muroc Bombing and Gunnery Range, a remote training site for the Army Air Corps that is now a small enclave within the present-day Edwards base.

As America entered World War II, the area was alive with activity. Because wartime military aviation needs >>

Like an eerie ghost ship sailing on a sandy sea, the Muroc-Maru was a full-scale wood, chicken wire, and tar model of a Japanese navy cruiser that stretched over 600 feet. Bombardiers and pilots, alike, used the mock-up for strafing, identification, and skip bombing practice. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 37

Muroc-Maru overwhelmed Wright Field in Ohio, the training facility at the time, a new location was needed—one with good flying weather and one that offered privacy so that new top-secret airplanes could safely undergo testing. So a permanent base for training of combat flight crews was created. The Edwards’ website explains that in the spring of 1942, this area, along the north shore of Rogers and about six miles away from the training base at Muroc, was “activated as a separate post and designated Muroc Army Air Base…P-38s strafed the targets on the range as bomber crews and fighter pilots prepared to do battle overseas.”

Soon after, “a wooden hangar and rudimentary facilities sprang up and on Oct. 1, 1942, Bell test pilot Bob Stanley lifted the wheels of the Bell XP-59A Airacomet off the enormous, flat surface of the dry lakebed. The turbojet revolution had arrived.”

Still, one of the most visually impressive sights ever to grace the southwest area of Rogers Dry Lake, an area used for training P-38 Lightning fighter pilots, and B-24 Liberator and B-25 Mitchell bomber crews, has to be the Muroc-Maru.

Made to be bombed, the Muroc-Maru was a full-scale wooden model of a Japanese Navy Cruiser that stretched over 600 feet. It was designed as a recognition devise as well as a target for B-25 Mitchell bombers. Pilots and bombardiers used the mock-up for strafing, identification, and skip bombing practice.

Army Air Forces Temporary Building (Target) T-799 (the official name of the MurocMaru) was constructed for over $35,000 and built out of 4x4s and chicken wire. Builders then covered the structure with tar paper and coated it in ground up chicken feathers.

Sand berms were used to make a wake, and, all together, it bore a striking resemblance to an Imperial Japanese Navy Takaoclass cruiser.

In the 1963 book The Great California Deserts, W. Storrs Lee wrote a story called “Flying Dutchman at Muroc” and recounts that, as a target, the Muroc-Maru was such a hit

These sightings prompted legends of an “Oriental Flying Dutchman” cruising the desert to begin circulating. Some bystanders claimed that the heat waves in the dry lake created a mirage effect that made the ship appear to be moving on water. It took years of bombing and environmental effects to actually change the external

Right after the mockup ship was erected, legends of an “Oriental Flying Dutchman” cruising the desert began circulating. Some bystanders claimed that the heat waves in the dry lake created a mirage effect that made the ship appear to be moving on water.

with pilots that it continued to be improved. “Mounds of sand were skillfully packed around the ship to simulate ocean waves. Someone raised the Rising Sun on the aftermast. That did it. Many a passing motorist, unaware of the Army’s caprice, rubbed his eyes at what he hoped was only a mirage, and hurried on, half expecting the Japanese Navy to open fire before he could get out of range.”

look of the mock ship, meaning that years after World War II was over, the Muroc-Maru still stood, some argue as a symbol of American courage and determination.

However, the Muroc-Maru was not long for this world.

In 1950, this training tool was “sunk” because it was deemed a flight hazard by Army engineers. Her “lower decks” were still filled with duds and un-

38 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

exploded bombs—that meant that Army engineers were risking their lives by dismantling the Muroc-Maru. Purportedly, all that remains today are a few tons worth of nails and staples and some sand berms.

But successful testing and research trials at the base during the war years attracted a new type of research activity that would help shape the way the world viewed what would become Edwards Air Force Base, even after landmarks like the Muroc-Maru were gone. In 1946, the rocket-powered Bell X-1 was, according to Edwards’ website, “the first in a long series of experimental airplanes designed to prove or disprove aeronautical concepts—to probe the most challenging unknowns of flight and solve its mysteries.” That tradition of flight research continues today at Edwards, which was officially renamed in December of 1949 in honor of Capt. Glen W. Edwards, who was killed the previous year in the crash of the YB-49 Flying Wing jet bomber.

“The natural resource of Rogers Dry Lake has made possible the successful development and testing of generations of American aircraft leading to the Space Shuttle today,” says the National Park Service. “Because of this association with the History of American Aviation the Rogers Dry Lake is uniquely qualified for designation as a National Historic Landmark.”

We just wish landmarks like the Muroc-Maru were still around to remind us of the fact that, while Kern County has major connections to the history of aviation, we also played a huge role in the war effort at a time when our country needed a lot of support. v Sources: edwards.af.mil/; NPS. gov; histomil.com; klaxo.net/hofc

R I S K T A K E R S

“ If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way; if you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”

—Donald Valpredo

I

By Tracie Grimes

t is dedication to this creed, this way of approaching life, that turned a group of Italian immigrant farmers settling in Mettler into a successful farming operation. And it’s an attitude that was passed on from father to son.

“My father, John, came to the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley in 1944 and led a group of Italian farmers to Mettler, the area that is now the Magic Mountain parking lot, to grow on the land as tenant farmers,” explained Donald Valpredo, a third generation Valpredo farmer who heads up what is now known as Donald Valpredo Farms near the area where his father used to work the land.

John Valpredo took a big enough risk when he left his family home in Donald Valpredo, third Asti, Italy, to start fresh and find his generation farmer, explains own slice of life as part of Califor- how his father simply dug nia’s agricultural industry, but there a little deeper than most to find all-important water, the was something even riskier that those mainstay of any farm. who came to this part of California had to deal with back in John’s day. A risk that is still with us today. Water, a commodity many other parts of the nation don’t have to worry too much about, was even more scarce back then than it is today. There simply wasn’t enough.

“You’ve gotta have water to farm,” smiled Valpredo, his blue eyes twinkling, “so what did my father do? He just drilled a little deeper than most people went, and today that is still where the water table is.”

That’s all it took for Mother Earth to open her bounty to the Valpredo clan. The crops were plentiful and the business was successful, and things looked good for the family farming enterprise.

But it wasn’t a given that Valpredo would go into farming as the Valpredos before him had. In fact, when he came back to the farm after going to Garces High School, Bakersfield College, UC Davis, and serving in the Coast Guard, he thought life on the farm was a little too laid back. “After being in the mid-

dig deeper

dle of things during those college years, the ranch just seemed so dull,” Valpredo remembered with a grin.

Boring as things may have seemed at first, Valpredo finally settled in and began getting down to the business of farming with his dad, brother, and a friend close enough to be called brother, Rick Martinez. And in 1985, Valpredo decided it was time to venture out on his own.

“Rick and I decided it was time to get with it and start our own venture,” he said as he smiled, slapping his thigh for emphasis. “We had to make a way for our children so we decided to strike out on our own, growing carrots, watermelons, cotton—adding new crops to our portfolio that seemed to be a good fit for us.

“It was a continual process, finding what crops would work and what wouldn’t, working hard to grow our business right along with our crops. Sure, things got tough at times, everyone knows that farming is very much a business loaded with peaks and valleys, but I was told early on that I was an Ameri-can, not an Ameri-can’t and really believed (still do) that with hard work, diligence, and persistence, I could accomplish whatever I set out to do.”

It’s that commitment to buckle down and do what

>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 39

40 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Risktakers­

needs to be done that’s gotten Valpredo through the rough times most farmers face at one time or another. And there have been rough times.

“We went through some very rough times; times when I just plain didn’t have the money to pay the bills. So what did I do? I went to my suppliers, looked them in the eye and said, ‘I just don’t have the money now to pay you, but I will have the money in October and promise to pay you then.’ That was back in the days when character counted; we did our business by looking each other in the eye, giving our word, and sealing the deal with a handshake. We were people dealing with people; not just a blip on a screen.”

Valpredo’s eye-to-eye approach worked, and he was able to ride out the low points and pay his creditors as promised.

But there was one aspect of Valpredo’s business he admitted he couldn’t count on his character to carry him through the rough times. Mother Nature has a way of getting in the way of a farmer’s best laid plans, and in the San Joaquin Valley, that means there are years when water is an issue. But that’s just part of farming here in our valley, Valpredo shrugs. “You sure can’t produce anything without water,” he pointed out, quick to mention that it hasn’t stopped him from getting down to business and enjoying life. “I approach life with the attitude that the

I

f you have passion for what you do, are never satisfied

with just good enough, and can take a challenge head-on...

“I approach life with the attitude that the glass is always half full. The sky isn’t going to be blue every day, but when the cloudy days roll in, what good does it do to worry? You have to plan for the bad days in farming and not worry about the minutia.” glass is always half full. The sky isn’t going to be blue every day, but when the cloudy days roll in, what good does it do to worry? You have to plan for the bad days in farming and not worry about the minutia.”

In managing those less than ideal years, Valpredo’s tactic is just as simple as his approach to life: “It’s all about sustainability. Everyone has to ride out the lows and everyone had their ideas on how best to manage the resources of nature. I’m proud of the job agriculture does as far as usage of water goes and keeping the soil fertile. We are all working together towards sustainability.

“Sure there are times when we haven’t had the ideal weather, but, for the most part, we have great weather. It’s very motivating for me to be outside in the fresh air, in the sunshine, great soil...Don’t get me wrong, though, I’m not one of those in the bib overalls farmers with a piece of hay crunched between my teeth,” Valpredo said smiling as though he was telling a secret.

“But neither am I one of those who golfs, has airplanes and boats—I’m content in my little operation and happy in the fact I can live this blessed life, with good food to eat, able to send my kids through USC.” Valpredo’s “little” operation (which is actually a very big operation, encompassing not only growing crops, but a marketing—run by his son Mike—and organic growing division, Country Sweet Produce) helps Valpredo support his real passion, which is horses. >>

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 41

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“I’m ready to go out to pasture and talk to my horses all day!” says Valpredo with a chuckle, adding he’s had some pretty good conversations with his horse named Back to Bako.

“I’ve always had a hand in Thoroughbred racing, a love for watching those beauties run for the finish line, so I’ve become connected to racing by keeping between twelve and fourteen broodmares and running somewhere around ten to twelve races a year on the California circuit. I also serve as director/officer for many horse-racing associations and was appointed to the State Horse Racing Board in 1991 by Governor Pete Wilson.”

As good as farming has been to the Valpredo clan and as undaunted as Don is about what he considers to be the minutia, there are some new aspects of farming that have come into the picture, making life on a farm a bit more difficult.

“There are so many protocols we have to follow now that I would have never dreamed of ten years ago,” he said, raising his hands up and beginning to tick off the newer kids on the protocol block as he spoke. “There are procedures we have to follow if we call something ‘organic’; procedures if something is said to be ‘local’; protocols that establish a food’s traceability.

The rules are so strict in the traceability protocols that you can actually trace produce to the day it was harvested and which field it was harvested from.”

Although all these conventions may seem like a nightmare to most businessmen, Valpredo points out that having these things in place means that American consumers today have the safest produce and meats (if they are California grown) than ever before. “It’s by far the best-ever fruit and vegetables the earth has ever seen before,” Valpredo added emphatically, “I thank the Lord every day for blessing me enough to enjoy this life we have in California.”

Living the California dream is what Valpredo says his life is all about. “Sure, farming has its hills and valleys—always will—but I really think there’s a growing respect for agriculture as people become smarter about diet and nutrition. Whether people recognize it or not, agriculture plays a big part in their everyday lives. Instead of getting to know your doctor, you should really get to know your farmer.

“A real challenge for me would be if you told me I had to live somewhere like North Dakota,” he laughed, spreading his arms in the cool California breeze. “And if you ask me if I love being a part of California farming…I LOVE IT!” v

42 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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❖

HUMAN RESOURCES ❖

Friendships in the Workplace

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“Without friends, no one a co-worker can negatively imwould want to live, even if he pact the work environment for had all other goods.” Aristothem and their co-workers; and tle wrote this sentiment, and I the list goes on. couldn’t agree more.

So, how should employers For example, I recently met and employees approach frienda friend for coffee, and my day ships at work?

Employers should recognize was brighter as a result because that a certain amount of office my friend did what he always camaraderie is good for business; does: listened intently to my therefore, they shouldn’t necaccount of my recent mishaps, essarily put a damper on small offered supportive comments, doses of personal chit-chat and and made me feel better about

By Robin Paggi harmless joking around. Howevlife in general.

According to social psychologists, my men- er, employers should let employees know when it tal and physical well-being can be attributed appears that their interpersonal relationships are in part to my friend and others like him in my interfering with productivity and/or professionallife. Dr. Karen Dill, author, social psycholo- ism and even intervene if necessary.

Additionally, numerous experts caution emgist, professor at the Fielding Graduate University, and blogger for Psychology Today ployers and supervisors from becoming too said such friendships are important because friendly with their subordinates. In her article, they “fill our need for belonging. Our friends “Employers, Employees and Friendship: Can give us someone with whom to discuss our Managers be Friends With Employees?” HR ideas, beliefs, and problems. These are needs consultant Kate Russell says that, “It is prudent to set boundaries. I advise managers to distance that we can’t meet on our own.”

Obviously, friendships are important, and themselves a little. Be friendly, but not friends.” recent research indicates that having friends In her article “Boss-Employee Friendships,” at work is vitally important. According to the Amanda Vogel advises that if “a friendship study, “Work-based predictors of mortality: A with an employee even remotely compromises 20-year follow-up of healthy employees,” pub- what’s best for business or your success as a lished in the May 2011 issue of Health Psy- manager, it’s time to cut ties.”

Employees would do well to follow the adchology, employees with “high levels of peer vice from the article, “The Dos and Don’ts of social support” tend to live longer.

Work-based friendships are also beneficial Workplace Friendships” on the Workplace Into employers, according to Tom Rath, author sights website: of Vital Friends: The People You Can’t Afford Do: to Live Without. Based in part on research - use your breaks to socialize instead of conconducted by The Gallup Organization, stantly chatting throughout the day, Rath’s book indicates that an employee with a - stay focused on your work so you don’t lose best friend at work is seven times more likely sight of the things that need to be accomto be engaged with that work, which is good plished, - practice respect and professionalism by refor business.

Of course, there are drawbacks to workplace fraining from gossiping about co-workers with your work friend. friendships.

For employers, the workplace can suffer be- Don’t: cause employees might spend too much time - continuously pick up the slack for your work socializing instead of working; co-workers friend, sometimes cover for each other’s inappropriate - share everything about yourself in case the behavior (e.g. clocking in or out for the other); friendship sours, supervisors who are friends with their subordi- - be exclusive by spending all your time with nates are sometimes more lenient with them, your friend.

Thus, friendships at work are good for evwhich creates a sense of unfairness; and a varieryone involved, as long as they don’t interety of other issues.

For employees, too much or inappropri- fere with work. ate socializing at work can negatively impact their professional image; covering for a co- Robin Paggi is the Training Coordinator at worker’s inappropriate behavior can result in Worklogic HR Legal Solutions and can be reached being disciplined; the end of a friendship with at rpaggi@worklogiclegal.com or (661) 695-5168.

44 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Dogs Are Good For Our Health Dog owners co pe with stress bett er and have lower cholesterol

Dog owners tend to live longer than the general uce Dogs can red population your blood pressure

Meet Ruby

Her live at ALPHA. e 100 dogs that th of e is on , e by sh and This is Ru cross a little too, es ey r he r, he ot er seen. ears cross each girl you have ev y of go g, in ar ost ende d on the streets probably the m und abandone fo e er w g do r r. One of She and anothe rted animal love ea -h nd ki a by ALPHA e loves water and brought to t Ruby is that sh ou ab ed tic no e w buckets. the first things drinking water r he of t ou et fe s and ep her spayed, has shot and couldn’t ke is e Sh r. he r fo trough just We bought this adopted. d is ready to be a microchip, an is ns any dog that ue, which mea sc re ill -k in y, no a ar is tu e sanc ALPHA r life. The 20-acr fo re ca n ve gi ty capaci of not adopted is ways at its full al t os m al is s, opted, year existence for 17 ALPHA dog is ad an n he w ly on e opens up 100 dogs. Spac g in need. cept another do ac to us s w lo which al for dogs st spay/neuter co w lo ry ve or ee rs. Pet We also fund fr munity membe m co e m co in w d some 19,000 belonging to lo community an r ou in nt pa m is ra . Despite overpopulation shelter this year l ro nt co al im at the an ve as many as pets will end up personnel to sa l ro nt co al im ity an is is a commun heroic efforts by e it out alive. Th ak m t no ill g w t in possible, mos aying or neuter lve it only by sp so ill te w e w d an hen the birth ra problem r community. W ou in ts for pe e of ac rs pl or safe large numbe a loving home be ill w e er th d, is greatly reduce almost all. rnment receives no gove d an t ofi pr nC)(3) no ALPHA is a 501( tax deductible orted entirely by pp su e ar e W g. us help them. fundin vers. Please help lo al im an om donations fr dog Owning a your can boost immunity Dogs can mend a broken heart

Photo courtesy Paul a Colahan- Se de

rstrom

Dogs in creas and can e self-esteem cause h umans to feel more c ompas sion toward s other s

Dogs improve your mood and reduce loneliness

ALPHA Canine Sanctuary

P.O. Box 5517, Bakersfield, CA 93388 Photo courtesy (661) 391-8212 ALPHACANINE.ORG Jennifer Williams Photography

Photo courtesy Jennifer Williams Photography

Your Donations Help Us Save Precious Lives

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 45

ONE MINUTE BUSINESS BRIEF

Shay Muñoz, Zach Pierucci

Intelligent Document Solutions

X

erox, an international leader in office technology, isn’t just about copiers anymore. Recently, Xerox has provided solutions for companies like Boeing, the University of Notre Dame, and Cisco Systems. Locally, Xerox has proudly served Kern County for over 30 years. As well as supporting traditional Xerox business with technology-leading production equipment, copiers, and printers, Xerox has become a market leader in Managed Print Services and Document Management.

What makes Xerox’s Managed Print offering different from other competitors?

Well the answer is surprisingly simple.

Most service providers simply deliver toner and provide some levels of service and maintenance. Xerox Print Services shifts the cumbersome processes of managing your office environment to a proactive state. With industry-leading technology, Xerox remotely manages your entire office fleet, providing automated supply shipping, proactive service and support, award-winning centralized Help Desk, con-

As FedEx is to shipping and PayChex is to payroll, Xerox is to Managed Print Services.

Just as business has evolved over the last 30 years, so has Xerox.

Local professionals providing the innovation expected from a leader in the industry.

830 21st Street Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-321-0010 www.xeroxids.com

46 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

CURRICULUM VITAE

solidated billing, and monthly reporting.

Xerox is the only government authorized provider able to service a mixed vendor environment. Now all of your HPs, Brothers, Lexmarks, or whatever you are currently operating on can be managed by Xerox efficiently and professionally. Think about the benefits of not having to maintain a messy supply closet, your IT professionals not having to deal with annoying printer maintenance issues, or staff spending time trying to procure different kinds of cartridges for an array of different devices. In a nutshell, your employees can focus on their core competencies.

The idea of managed print providers has been around for some time. However, it has just recently started to catch on with smallto medium-sized businesses. Why not go with the best? Xerox has over 2,000,000 devices under management across the globe, by far the market leader. Xerox has also never lost a contract. So it’s definitely time you gave them a call to discover how Xerox can help your office today.

ONE MINUTE BUSINESS BRIEF

Photo By Miguel Angel Gonzalez

Camino Real Restaurant & Bar

T

ake just one trip to Camino Real Restaurant & Bar and you will know what they mean by their slogan, “Mexican Inspired with California Love.” And if you ask owner Alejandro Ocampo, their difference and variety in food sets them apart— which is precisely what they’re going for.

“We pride ourselves in not being just another Mexican restaurant,” Ocampo said.

“Because we aren’t restricted by saying we’re authentic Mexican food, we are then able to do more with our menu to better serve our customers.”

In fact, that has been the focus of the restaurant, and is the greatest reason why it’s been so successful: a constant desire to keep the customers happy. This vision is shared by his entire family, who all help with the business. “We always keep an ear out and then do what we have to do to make our customers happy,” Ocampos revealed.

“I don’t necessarily have a business plan, and I can’t specify how to make a business thrive, but I do know that being loyal and attentive to our customers is what

Come in and experience food that is “Mexican Inspired with California Love.”

Deeply dedicated to keeping customers satisfied with some of the most delectable dishes in town.

Seeing success as an ongoing process, you can be sure that every trip will be better than the last.

3500 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 661-852-0493 www.caminoed.com CURRICULUM VITAE

has kept us going throughout the years.”

This locally family-owned and operated business will soon be venturing out into the southwest area—a spot chosen specifically because existing customers expressed that that was where they would like one. Camino Real also keeps in close contact with customers via their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/CAMINOED), where daily specials that you won’t find on the menu are posted.

At Camino Real, they understand that in order to keep a good business going, you must keep your customers happy. That is the foundation upon which this unique restaurant operates. “We’re very happy to be in business,” Ocampo concluded. “We aren’t chefs, we didn’t go to culinary school, but we love food and we love providing good service and atmosphere for our customers.

Our love for what we do is why we’ve been in business for as long as we have.”

When you’re looking for something delicious, different, and made with love, let Camino Real bring something new to your palate. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 47

ONE MINUTE BUSINESS BRIEF

Kyle Wigley, Denise Wigley

Wigley Real Estate

A

t Wigley Real Estate, they’re a family team, working for your family. Since 1998, the experienced staff has excelled in the areas of residential real estate, luxury home marketing, property management, short sales, working with investors, and foreclosures.

Denise Wigley, mother of fellow teammembers Kyle and Kaylea, is among an elite group of agents in Kern County in terms of actual home sales. Denise sold the most expensive home ever listed on the Bakersfield MLS and, as a team, they’ve closed over 1,500 homes since 1998.

If you’re looking to purchase a new home, or perhaps upgrade to a better home, the Wigley Real Estate Team is here for you. Denise is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and can help you find the home of your dreams. Her team is also an Endorsed Local Provider for the Dave Ramsey Organization, and Kyle and Denise facilitate Financial Peace University. A Certified Staging Professional, she can also help with staging homes, giving them an upper hand in mar-

Wigley Real Estate is here to help you find your dream home.

For the last 14 years, the team has closed over 1,500 homes.

The Wigley’s goal is to turn clients into friends.

5351 Olive Drive Bakersfield, CA 93312 Kyle: 661-330-9863 Denise: 661-978-4101 www.WigleyTeam.com

48 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

CURRICULUM VITAE

kets and helping them sell for more money.

“I receive ninety-nine percent of my business from referrals, and I am passionate about taking great care of my clients, who become my friends,” said Denise.

The team’s kindness and experience has helped people buy homes, and sell them, too. As a matter of fact, Wigley Real Estate has a great record with short sales—98 percent of properties have gotten approved.

The agency works with Keller Williams Realty, the second-largest real estate company in the United States with 690 offices throughout North America. Bakersfield Keller Williams’ local office has an excellent reputation in the community, so the sky really is the limit when you’re working with the Wigley Real Estate Team and Keller Williams.

“By February 2013, Real Trends [a reporter of home sales] will announce that Keller Williams is the number one real estate company in the U.S.,” said Denise.

“We look forward to the privilege of our family serving yours,” added Kyle with a smile.

ONE MINUTE BUSINESS BRIEF

Artin Massihi, M.D., Dan Erickson, M.D.

Accelerated Urgent Care

F

or your urgent care needs, there are options in Bakersfield: go to an emergency room, where there are typically long wait times, or go to an urgent care staffed by emergency trained physicians—Accelerated Urgent Care, where wait times are usually 15 to 20 minutes.

Aside from heart attack or stroke, the emergency physicians at Accelerated Urgent Care are trained to handle most urgent medical issues that patients are facing. “We save our patients hours of time and thousands of dollars compared to a typical visit to the emergency room,” said Dr. Dan Erickson, co-owner.

Whether you’re experiencing abdominal pain, lacerations, cough, sore throat, urinary tract symptoms, fractures, difficulty breathing, headache, back pain, or have an ailment that would require x-rays, a CT scan, ultrasound, IV therapy, or laboratory work, you can be sure that Accelerated Urgent Care is the best place to go.

Their emergency physicians are also trained in pediatric urgent care medi-

Embodying their motto, “Expert care on your time.”

Bakersfield’s premier emergency room alternative, where both wait time and cost are low.

A completely patient-centric urgent care facility, made with the comfort and ease of patients and their families in mind.

9710 Brimhall Road Bakersfield, CA 93312 661-829-6747 www.aucnow.us CURRICULUM VITAE

cine. The facility in its entirety has been streamlined so that things run smoothly from start to finish. You can even register and make appointments on their website prior to your visit. Doctors follow up with the patients after the visit and electronic medical records make obtaining records easier than ever. Test results are received the same day they’re taken.

“We took a good look at the medical treatment in the area and worked in local emergency rooms for several years and created a facility that addressed the main concerns that patients have expressed,” Dr. Erickson elaborated. “One of the main concerns from locals were long wait times, and we have done everything to streamline the process of health care to get patients the care they need in a timely fashion.” Hence, their motto is “Expert care on your time.”

When faced with a medical situation that needs immediate attention, look no further than Accelerated Urgent Care, where you will receive world-class treatment in a timely and affordable manner. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 49

50 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

d e m l i F in Kern

d s n r e t s e W d l i W , d l i DT he W

boys s, and cow ff ri e h s , s the of outlaw and saving as a time s w e t rs s o e h W ty The Old has their trus tryside on nticized era n a u o m c ro e ly th h roaming ians,” ss. This hig oys and Ind el in distre s b m w o a d C (“ l a e n tim occasio creen. are of play the silver s n its fair sh a n o th e re m o ti m gotten d to nt a lot of is dedicate s’ also spe it rn e d K n a in ), m ? il anyone ture on F ovies of our fea ugh: the m II to e rt a th P f o y h t s That’s w the toughe vite you to the rough, f o t s e t. So we in h s g e W e th the rou f life o the harsh with us. portraying dusty trail is th n w o d mosey on

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ion

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 51

Filmed in Kern

rns e ing E TheWild,Wild Westefilm t hard to realize we’re liv ed in Kern County, it’s no

still alive in that have been all, the pioneer spirit is ponderance of westerns ter pre Af . the at film k of loo le a e sty s tak thi u When yo le continue to enjoy not hard to see why peop rs. in a special place. And it’s or walked around in spu came a popular genre. ver slipped on a holster e a novelty, westerns be cam be es tur pic n tio all of us, even if we’ve ne t horses and give ented and mo watch gunslingers moun as soon as film was inv to t d tha nte se wa y sen the kes r; ma ate it So t of a the recent histor y Old West in the comfor st exciting times in our the mo ce the en of eri e exp on to of l d aya nte ing People wa to see a stylized portr movie studios began film popcorn; they yearned genre gained more fans, rn ste we for s the on as ati chase while snacking on so, loc d c nt. An authenti led a yella-bellied varmi cutives sought the most exe dio stu d an s cer du without fear of being cal Naturally, pro kin’ for. ks as fast as they could. be just what they were loo to ed en these “shoot-‘em-up” flic pp ha ty un Co uldn’t you know it, Kern these westerns. And wo

kern valley museum

of the main locations early filmmakers used was Old Kernville. Of course, as we all know, the original site of Kernville is now under water after the creation of the Isabella Dam. That said, when the water levels are low, you can sometimes see timbers from the buildings that populated the area—ones that could also be seen in early westerns.

“Kernville could easily pass for an old western town,” Birchard explained with a chuckle. “So western sets were created there.”

But Kernville wasn’t the only favorite location for movie crews.

Birchard said that the road to Lone Pine and Bishop was frequently used for filming. “At the time, it was fairly common for all the cowboys [real cowboys in the area, that is] to work [with film crews],” he added.

That’s because at the time of the first recorded western movie being filmed in Kern County

buck jones (1915), life was far from the glitz and glamor that would prevail in the ‘20s, when the country would be riding high on a strong economy built after World War I. Life was challenging and few people had automobiles, so Kern County could still be considered a throwback to the Old West lifestyle.

It’s a fairly well-known fact that during the planning stages for the movie Stagecoach, producers asked local John Wofford if he could provide a stagecoach for a scene involving a river crossing. Wofford, at the time, was known to provide extras, horses, equipment, and cattle to the film industry. Wofford agreed to modify a mud-wagon (so called because passengers sitting on the exposed seat would nearly always find themselves covered in the mud thrown from the wheels as the wagon moved) and make it look

52 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

like the stagecoach needed.

The stagecoach used in the movie, the one John Wayne maneuvered while snapping a whip and yelling at his horses, is still available to be seen at the Kern Valley Museum (more on that below).

Wofford wasn’t the only one to provide extras. Take one look at the “land rush” scene in the movie Cimarron filmed at the Quinn Ranch in Delano and you’ll see what amounts to thousands of local extras. In fact, the scene wound up requiring the use of over 5,000 extras, 28 cameramen, 6 still photographers, and 27 camera assistants—and it took a week to film!

So in addition to being the perfect setting for westerns, we were also known to be fairly amiable to Hollywood producers. It was only natural for film crews to invade all corners of the county. courtesy of doctormacro.com

In the 1920s, it was hard for Hollywood movie makers to depict the vast expanses and lush scenery of the West on a studio lot. They could get horses, create an old-timey saloon, and even film close-up shoot-out scenes…but what they couldn’t capture within the confines of glamorous Los Angeles was the rustic, wideopen spaces of our country— the true wonder and beauty of the West.

They found solace in the deserts and farmland of Kern County, an area not quite as densely populated or heavily developed. The rivers and mountains of Lone Pine and the dusty crags of Red Rock Canyon were perfect. And they capitalized on our proximity.

“Almost everything that required a river was filmed in Kern County,” said Bob Birchard with the American Film Institute.

According to Birchard, one

courtesy of doctormacro.com

E Stagecoaches & Sarsaparillas e

Gabby hayes dale evans

courtesy of doctormacro.com

JOHN WAYNE

doctormacr o.com courtesy of

As a result of our county playing a wonderful stand-in for the undeveloped West, we have had some of the world’s biggest movie stars hitching their horses on our soil. Here’s a tiny list of some of those films. For a complete listing, you can visit FilmKern.com, where you’ll discover that half, if not more, of the movies shot in our county between 1920 and 1950 were westerns. There must be something in the water around here! dThe Cowboy and the Lady, filmed in Mojave in 1915, starring S. Miller Kent and Hellen Case. dBack to God’s Country, 1919, filmed in the Kern River Valley and starring Nell Shipman and Wheeler Oakman. dBranded a Bandit, 1924, filmed in Robbers Roost, featuring Yakima Canutt and Alys Murrell. dBorn to the West, 1926, filmed in Red

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E‘Them Thar’ Moviese

Rock Canyon, starring Jack Holt and Margaret Morris. dHell’s Heroes, 1930, shot in the Mojave Desert and starring Charles Bickford and Raymond Hatton. dUnder a Texas Moon, filmed in 1930 in Red Rock Canyon, starring Frank Fay and Myrna Loy. dCimarron, 1931, filmed in Kern River Valley with Richard Dix and Irene Dunne.

The Phantom of the West, 1931, shot in Old Kernville starring Tom Tyler and William Desmond. dRange Feud, filmed in 1931 in Kernville with John Wayne and Buck Jones. dTwo-Fisted Law, 1932, shot near Kernville and starring Tim McCoy and John Wayne.

dBlue Steel, filmed in 1934 in the Kern River Valley with John Wayne and Eleanor Hunt. dLawless Frontier, 1934, made in Red Rock Canyon and Kernville with John Wayne and Gabby Hayes. dThe Lucky Texan, also in 1934, and filmed in Kern River Valley with John Wayne and Barbara Sheldon. dSinging Vagabond, shot in 1935 in the Kern River Valley and starring Gene Autry. dFrontier Justice, filmed in 1936 in Kern River Valley with Hoot Gibson and Jane Barnes. dArizona Days, 1937, also filmed in Kern River Valley, starring Tex Ritter and Syd Saylor. dPublic Cowboy No. 1, shot in 1937 in Kern River Valley with Gene Autry and Smiley Burnette. dTex Rides with the Boy Scouts, 1938, filmed in Old Kernville with Tex Ritter and Snub Pollard. dThe Lone Ranger Rides Again, 1939, filmed in Red Rock Canyon and Kernville with Robert Livingston and Chief Thundercloud. dThe Oregon Trail, a serial filmed in 1939 near Kern River Valley starring Johnny Mack Brown. dOverland with Kit Carson, shot in 1939 in Red Rock Canyon with Bill Elliott and Iris Meredith.

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Filmed in Kern

dThe Fastest Gun Alive, filmed in 1956 in Mojave with Glenn Ford and Broderick Crawford. dThe Big Country, filmed in 1958 in Red Rock Canyon starring Gregory Peck and Jean Simmons. dCattle King, filmed in 1963 in Kernville, with Robert Taylor and Joan Caulfield.

GREGORY PECK

As is completely obvious from the above list, Red Rock Canyon was constantly utilized by Hollywood filmmakers as a set for westerns. So much so, that old relics and movie props can still be found out in the desert to this day.

One man who is dedicated to promoting and preserving not only the area but its presence in film is Mark Faull, a former park ranger who worked for eight years in Red Rock Canyon. He’s also spent a great deal researching Red Rock’s connection to the film industry.

“We’ve been able to document over one hundred features filmed in Red Rock,” he explained. “And of those, eighty were westerns.”

Faull has worked closely with Richard Schmidt, the author of A Field Guide to Motion Picture Locations at Red Rock Canyon, a book which highlights just how integral the area has been for film studios. It’s both a field guide for visitors to dozens of actual filming sites at Red Rock, as well as a history of the Canyon and of Rudolph Hagen, the location’s benefactor (for more, visit redrockcanyonmovies.com). “Richard and I searched for years to track down locations of these old films,” Faull said. In that searching, Faull also discovered quite a bit of history about the owner of the land at the time.

“Hagen had quite a few disputes with Hollywood film crews,” Faull said with a laugh.

One such occasion was so heated it was chronicled in the April 1st edition of Randsburg Times.

“Hagen saw film crews dynamiting the canyon walls to add drama to the production, so Hagen ran them off the property.”

So it seems that filmmakers did not always view the Red Rock Canyon area as a place to be preserved.

However, the after-effects of those explosions, the damage done to the canyon by film crews, are now part of the park and add to the history.

“These westerns depicted the monumental size of the landscape. It’s not uncommon for visitors to the area to say it looks like a western movie set…because it was. Because of these movies, this part of Kern County is a familiar sight to many people—they’ve just never been here.”

54 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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rmacro.com courtesy of docto

dStagecoach, 1939, shot around Kern River, starring John Wayne and Claire Trevor. dGo West, shot in 1940 in Red Rock Canyon and starring the Marx Brothers. dMan From Cheyenne, filmed in1942 in Red Rock Canyon with Roy Rogers and Gabby Hayes. dTrail Riders, shot in 1942 in Kernville and starring John “Dusty” King and David Sharpe. dBlazing Guns, 1943, filmed in Kernville with Ken Maynard and Hoot Gibson. dIdaho, filmed in 1943 in Old Kernville and starring Roy Rogers and Virginia Gray. dThe Outlaw, shot in 1943 in Red Rock Canyon with Jane Russell and Walter Houston. d filmed in 1943 in the Kern River Valley starring Roy Rogers and John Carradine. dLights of Old Santa Fe, 1944, shot in the Kern River Valley with Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, and Gabby Hayes. dFrontier Gal, filmed in 1945 in the Kern River Valley and starring Yvonne DeCarlo. dDavy Crockett: Indian Scout, 1950, filmed in Red Rock Canyon with George Montgomery and Noah Beery, Jr. dThe Vanishing Westerner, shot in 1950 in Red Rock Canyon starring Monte Hale and Paul Hurst. dLaw and Order, filmed in 1953 in Red Rock Canyon with Ronald Reagan and Dorothy Malone. dThe Law vs. Billy the Kid, 1954, filmed in Kernville with Scott Brady and Betta St. John. dThe Burning Hills, shot in 1956 in the Kern River Valley starring Tab Hunter and Natalie Wood.

Location, Location, Location: E Wagon Train to Red Rock Canyon e

E How 'bout it, Sharp Shooter

?e

GENE AUTREY was being made, in 1939, Claire Trevor was the film’s biggest star, and receiv ed the highest salary. dJoshua trees appear in several scenes of The Outla w since the movie was partly film ed in Kern County. However , Josh-

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courtesy of doctormacro .com

Grab your pistol, partn er, ua trees do not occ ur in New and get ready for some of the Mexico, where the story is said feistiest trivia in the We st. to take place. dThe 1941 serial Ri ders of dWhile filming Back to God’s Death Valle y doesn’t inc lude Country, lead act or Ronald Bya single scene filmed in Death ram fell critically ill and left durValley—all if it was film ed in ing the first two weeks. He was Red Rock Canyon. replaced by Wheeler Oakm an. dThe sets for The Big Co untry dThe Lone Ranger Rides were not broken down after Again marked the first time filming completed in 19 58, but the Lone Rang er and Tonto are were later used by Unite d Art- seen together in a live action ist Productions to film Man of movie or serial . the West starring Gary Co oper. dThe elaborate chase climax dThe Three Godfathe rs has in Go West wa s going to be been made four times (some- deleted before filming because times having different titles), MGM executiv es thought it but the only version that wasn’t was too expensiv e. filmed in Kern County wa s the dMalgrove’s house in Blue Steel one starring John Wayn e. is the same house used for Juan- dThe Oregon dDuring the time Sta gecoach ita’s house in Trail was reThe Deser t Trail leased as a serial with 15 chapters in total. The director, Ford Beebe also directed the serials Flash Gordon, Buck Ro gers, and 1940’s The Green Ho rnet. dFrontier Gal, releas ed by Universal Pictures, wa s also known as The Br ide Wasn’t Willing.

HOOT GIBSON and as the Matlock ranchhouse in The Star Packer. dDuring a scene in the movie The Fastest Gun Alive, tiny cars moving along a hig hway can be seen in the backg round.

In another scene, powe r lines and a pole can be seen.

dIt’s said in Tab Hunte r’s auto-

biography that studio exe cutive were so displeased wit h Natalie Wood’s “Mexican” acc ent in The Burning Hills, tha t they considered dubbing another actress’ voice. dThe studio behind Ar izona Days and Tex Rides wi th the Boy Scouts, Grand Na tional Pictures, saw the succes s Re-

Yes, Red Rock Canyon has been seen by people around the world—people from Italy and Greece to Japan come to the area just to experience a piece of the “western” lifestyle. Some people are even lucky enough to find old movie props and fake rocks that were discarded in the dirt or near canyon walls.

In an essay Faull wrote about the film industry’s impact on the area, he said, “Western cinema does intrude upon the viewer’s world. It touches a simpler era, when space and time were viewed on a different plane. Less complicated choices confronted those embroiled in film lore. In a landscape of virtue versus vice, the righteous would prevail.”

public had with Gene Autry and Roy Rogers so they signed Tex Ritter from The Grand Old Opry as their own singing cow boy. dIt’s said that John Wayne came up with a number of his own fist-fight scenarios for the film Two-Fisted Law, an d even added humor to the dia logue. dCimarron was the fir st western to win an Oscar (it won Best Picture). dThe film Cattle Ki ng featured the famous Neill House in Kernville and it still stands today. The film also had a premiere at a movie the ater in Wofford Heights in 1963 .

KERNVILLE’S NEILL HOUSE

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Filmed in Kern E Saturday Matinee Memories e

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It’s hard to top the energy that comes with watching a western film at the theater. When this genre ruled the silver screen, you couldn’t find a seat, even for Saturday matinees, when children of all ages (but mostly actual children) would pack the movie houses to see what these iconic gunslingers were going to do. Rescue a kidnapped woman? Fight off Liberty Valance? Set a town straight?

This was the time a Saturday at the movies theater consisted of one chapter of a western serial, some cartoons, maybe a newsreel, and a feature film, depending on the length (as many western serials and features were not as long as mos t movies today).

The late George Gilbert Lynch, our longtime historical editor, waxed poetic with local historian Gilb ert Gia about his experiences going to Saturday matinees as a young boy. In an article Gia wrote about the old Granada The atre (see more at gilbertgia. com), Lynch said “We watched a lot of movies at the old Granada.

I remember well the Saturday matinee s in the late 1930s. The kids up front got so excited during one cow boy chase scene that they stomped their feet on the floor so hard they raised a dust storm!” of children at a time. Those were the Because small children were not as “we days when you could hand lcome” during other show over a dime and be entertained for an times, Saturday was the day for them enti re afternoon. to storm the theaters. Crowds outside would get so unruly that ushe rs would only let in a handful

roy rogers

Nostalgic for a time most of us never experienced? Sure you are…we want to hold on to the grit and moxie that was so prevalent in the Old West.

Stories of legendary cowboys and vengeful sheriffs give us insight into a time period that was rough for everyone alive— so we have museums that help us hold onto that idea and tourists come to Kernville to visit the Kern Valley Museum and get a dose of western lore.

Diane Bach, a volunteer at the museum and member of the Kern River Valley Historical Society, explained that the area (Kernville) was known for being quite the film location in the ‘20s and ‘30s, but that, like everything else, a lot of filming came to a halt during World War II. “To save everyone money, ranch hands were often used as extras. One day they would shoot and they would

be dressed up as cowboys, the next day the same people would shoot dressed up as Indians. The actors and ranch hands would play baseball in their off time, too, and Roy Rogers was allegedly such a good ball player that he could have gone pro,” Bach said.

Several ranches around (namely the Tilly Ranch) were going to go broke before Hollywood discovered the Kern River Valley, Bach explained.

According to Rob Middleworth, also a member of the KRVHS and a volunteer at the museum, during the filming of Real Glory with Gary Cooper and David Nevine, a boat tipped over and the crew lost one of the rifles they had brought.

The film crew eventually gave up on finding this lost rifle but do you think locals would give up so easy?

No—residents piled into boats and went out to locate this treasure. The rifle is hanging in the museum.

courtesy of kern county museum

E AVisit to the Kern County Museum e

So not only is the stagecoach there to see, and the rifle, but other memorabilia fills up this quaint museum along with more fun facts about the over

100 movies and TV shows, including Bonanza, filmed in the area. Grab your chaps and visit the museum for yourself. (kernvalleymuseum.org).

E TheWild,Wild Westerns e

d

We’re lucky that we can just hop on our ol’ mare (or saddle up the Buick) and head to Red Rock Canyon, Kernville, or the Mojave Desert and be standing where John Wayne, Gregory Peck, Hoot Gibson, Gene Autry, and many other stars stood donning holsters and large-brimmed cowboy hats while the sun beat down on the dirt below their feet. It’s true that not everyone can appreciate a western, but our role in so many classics can’t be ignored. It’s yet another way Kern County has made an impact on the film industry, and, coming next issue, Part III of our Film in Kern feature will include more still… so keep your eyes glued to the screen, partner.

56 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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58 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

$10

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DINonINa G DIME

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eap Eats h C l a in g ri O e h T

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 59

The Original

Grilled chicken breast with bell peppers, tomato, grilled onion, pepperoni, and pepper jack cheese.

CheapEats

By Isabel Alvarez

The Gourmet Shoppe

Café Med (The Gourmet Shoppe)

4809 Stockdale Hwy. If you have not wandered into The Gourmet Shoppe during your trips to Café Med, you don’t know what you have been missing. You can find anything from delectably crafted salads, pastas, desserts, wines, and delicious paninis. Sink your teeth into the popular South of the Border Grilled Chicken Breast. It comes with bell peppers, tomato, grilled onion, pepperoni, and pepper jack cheese with aioli on focaccia for $7.99.

24th St. Café

1415 24th St. If you have not been to 24th St. Café for a filling breakfast, you’ve been missing out. Their fluffy pancakes with fresh strawberries will melt in your mouth. But if you are stopping by for a quick and tasty lunch, you won’t be disappointed with the selection of great dishes that your wallet will like, too. Try the Chicken Piccata Sandwich with fried greens, mushrooms, capers, and melted jack cheese all for an affordable $8.50. Open for breakfast and lunch only.

Sugar Twist

9500 Brimhall Rd., Ste. 507 Whether you’re going in for a treat in the morning or a midday snack, let’s face it—you’re going in with one thing in mind: the sweets.

Sweet baked goods, that is. The donuts, alone, are a tasty art form.

Stop by for a twisted donut like the Oreo Dip, Loopy Fruits, or the Bunch O’Crunch. Your pick for a sweet $2.45. Another popular donut is the Baconator, the preferred donut for all bacon lovers (just $2.95). Pair it with a hot chocolate for $2.95.

Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar

1534 19th St. Talk about opening up with a bang! The Noodle Bar has become a Bakersfield favorite during its first year. How could it not be, though, what with a great location, delectable foods, and

Sugar Twist

Sprinkled or covered with bacon? it’s time to Meet the “Baconator” donut.

great service? Stop by for a romantic dinner or fast lunch, and the Noodle Bar won’t disappoint.

A popular lunch dish is the Crispy Noodle, created with deep fried egg noodles topped with carrots, celery, onions, baby corn, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms for just $8.00.

Muertos Kitchen and Lounge

Muertos Kitchen

1514 Wall St. This new local hotspot has definitely made its mark in the downtown community. The location is perfect, the food is simply amazing, and, despite the name “Muertos,” the atmosphere is all about celebrating life. Stop in for the popular Muertos Cheese Steak: carne asada with grilled onions, bell peppers, cheese, and a side of fries for only $9. Pair any meal with one of their savory specialty drinks like the red wine sangria. Yum!

Luigi’s

your taste buds, try the Pasta Bolognese: tasty pasta covered in a homemade meat sauce. All pasta and bean dishes are served with antipasti, including a roll, salami, cheese, pepperoni, and marinated carrots. $8.75 for a small and $9.95 for a large plate.

725 E. 19th St. The long lines and large crowds are proof that something special is happening behind the front doors of this longtime Bakersfield favorite. The service is fast and friendly, which complements every meal. If you want to tickle

Cheese steak: carne asada with grilled onions & bell peppers.

Casa Muñoz

1809 Potomac Ave. Known for its delicious chile rellenos, Casa Muñoz will not disappoint your taste buds. Lunch specials with great prices will surely satisfy your growling stomach and your wallet. Prepare to ask for a to-go box when you’re ready to head back to the office, because when you order the filling tacos, burritos, or the enchiladas, ranging from $8- $10, you’ll fill up before you can say “yum.” Dig into the lunch enchiladas ($7.78):

Do you know where to find strawberry chicken salad? Find out right now.

60 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Tickling your taste buds has never been easier... the hard part is deciding where!

Pot Roasttender chuck roast topped with delicious pan gravy.

shredded beef, chicken, ground beef, or chile verde smothered with enchilada sauce and melted cheese with a side of rice and beans. And it comes with a drink.

The Aviator Casino

1225 Airport Dr. (Delano) The Aviator Casino is not just a great place to have a good time, make a little scratch, and meet new friends.

This place also has a kitchen that is truly exceptional. The menu is crafted to please any palate, including traditional pasta dishes, steaks, burgers, and salads. The choices are nearly endless. Sampling the Mini Angus Sliders are a must for any meat or beef lover and a bargain at only $7. You get a trio of mini Angus burgers topped with caramelized onions, lettuce, and the melted cheese of your choice.

The Mark

Grilled shrimp, egg rolls, BBQ beef, and pork.

Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant

The Mark

1623 19th St. The Mark is a new restaurant on the Bakersfield scene. With brick walls covered with beautiful art and dim lighting, this restaurant is a great place for a date night any night of the week. Although, if you are in the downtown area during lunchtime, stop by for a flavorful

meal. Favorites during lunch are the Roast Turkey Wrap, $8.95, or the Pot Roast, tender chuck roast topped with delicious pan gravy for an affordable $9.95. It also comes with a side of mashed potatoes!

Steak and Grape

4420 Coffee Rd. Don’t let the strip mall location

fool you. When you walk into this Bakersfield gem you will be transported to a high class New Yorkstyle restaurant. The modern decorations, all with a romantic feel, are both inviting and relaxing. The impressive wine list will surprise your palate, too. Try one of their 20 great lunch specials for only $9.95. The Strawberry Chicken Salad is one of the favorites amongst patrons and so is the Beef Stroganoff—tender beef sautéed in a mushroom cream sauce and served over pasta.

Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant

3113 Chester Ln. Known for their traditional Vietnamese dishes, this cute, family-owned restaurant not only offers great food, but delivers personable service you’ll

appreciate. You can be sure to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that won’t make your wallet scream, too. Feast on any of their tasty lunch specials for only $7-10. Get the #8 Special Combination. It’s grilled shrimp, egg rolls, BBQ beef, and BBQ pork, served over a bed of vermicelli for $8.39. >>

DINING on a DIME

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The Original

Not merely inexpensive local food, ...these dishes are your new best friends!

CheapEats Mama Roomba

1814 Eye St. This cozy downtown favorite will never disappoint. The colorful and traditional decorations are welcoming and the delicious food will earn Mama Roomba a permanent spot in your favorite restaurants in town. I can personally vouch for the Sweet Potato Fries paired with the Spicy Habanero Ketchup as some of the best in town. For something more filling, sample the Chicken Paillard with creamy dijon mustard, $9.50, or the Corn and Cheese Empanadas for just $7.50.

Victor’s Mexican Grill

9500 Brimhall Rd. This is a build-your-own burrito (or bowl) kind of place, which is perfect for all those picky eat-

Frugatti’s

600 Coffee Rd. Frugatti’s is the real deal when it comes to Italian favorites. The homemade lasagna is truly a specialty you must try, and their daily lunch specials won’t break the bank. For just $9.99, you can try the soup, salad, and soda. What more could you ask for? A hefty plate of the house salad and a bowl of homemade minestrone or clam chowder, along with a soda or tea, is just the ticket.

exceptional flavors. Red Pepper has been around for a while now and the appetizing dishes are a clear sign why. Join them for lunch and sate your appetite with a bowl of fresh albondiga soup for just $6.75. Or fill up with the Merchant Special: the Mexican combination, beef taco, or a cheese enchilada for a pleasing $9.95.

Valentien

3580 Rosedale Hwy. Be advised: if you are coming to Hungry Hunter, you better come with a big appetite. If you are stopping by for lunch, feast on the rich and delectable Smoked Turkey Ruben for only $8.99. Or enjoy a quick and filling soup and salad for $8.99. This includes the savory soup of the day with your

Victor’s Mexican Grill

3310 Truxtun Ave. This cozy, upscale restaurant offers dishes that will make your taste buds swoon, but upscale doesn’t always have to come with a big price. Valentien offers a selection of items under $10. Indulge in one of their appetizing starters,

Corn and Cheese Empanadas

Customize your plate!

Choose the meat and dress it the way you like it.

Tony’s Pizza

Mama Roomba

ers out there, like me. Customize your meal to your own taste. Start with your choice of meat: chicken, steak, shrimp, chile verde, fish (tilapia), or vegetarian. Everything else is up to you. And trust me, there are endless options here.

Bowls start at $5.75 (price is dependent on choice of meat). Now serving breakfast.

Hungry Hunter

like the Steak Tartare: ground filet mignon, capers, grilled bread, and fried quail egg all for only $8.

Or opt for one of their delicious gourmet sandwiches for $10.

Red Pepper

2641 Oswell St. This place is known for serving up delicious Mexican cuisine with

Multiple Locations Tony’s is said to have some of the best pizza in town and I can personally vouch for that.

The fresh ingredients and the magically-delicious crust will make you fall in love with this establishment. An all-time favorite is the amazing Chile Verde Pizza (available by the slice Monday & Tuesday for only $2.75). This is the kind of pizza that will definitely make you a Tony’s regular. If you are in the mood for something other than pizza, try the fingerlicking good wings. An 8-piece is $6.25. You can also get a small order of rib-tips for about the same price.

62 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

choice of spinach, tossed greens, or Caesar salad.

Camino Real

3500 Truxtun Ave. By infusing traditional Mexican food with “California love,” this place has infused itself into our dining scene. Try a $6 lunch special (changes weekly) or come in for the lunch buffet, the best bet. They have anything from pork with nopales, BBQ chicken, soups, albondigas, salads, rice, beans, chile verde, chicken, steak fajitas, fettuccine, tacos dorados, Mexican potatoes, fresh handmade tortillas, and much more. All this food, and a drink, for only $10.

Camino Real

Pork with nopales, BBQ chicken, soups, albondigas, salads, chile verde, chicken, steak fajitas, fettuccine, tacos dorados, Mexican potatoes, handmade tortillas, and more!

Bagels & Blenderz

8200 Stockdale Hwy. Don’t let the name fool you: you don’t just come here for a boring ol’ bagel. This fantastic addition to great local restaurants is the place to go if you are in the mood for anything comforting and delicious. Not only do they whip up some pretty scrumptious bagels, you can also enjoy a fruit smoothie, a hearty sandwich or panini, salads, pastries, and so much more. And everything is homemade. They don’t do frozen at this place. If you are stopping by for breakfast, try the Bagel Benedict. They start with a fresh bagel, Canadian bacon,

eggs, and it’s topped with hollandaise sauce. It comes with a side of fresh fruit for just $5.99.

Mill Creek Deli

700 18th St. Don’t mistake this for your typical sandwich and a soda kind of deli. Mill Creek offers a great mix of Basque- and Italian-inspired dishes. They serve the traditional Basque setup as well as delectable options like the homemade Lasagna, the Meatloaf Sandwich, and they also serve up a great Muffuletta Sandwich for just $6.75.

Anita’s Mexican Grill

4240 California Ave. Not just a Mexican restaurant, Anita’s offers a fusion of Mexican and Salvadorian dishes. You can sit and enjoy a great meal in their newly-remodeled dining room, filled with bright colors and decorative folk art. If you are looking for a healthy and filling meal, try the popular Muscle Burrito. It

Anita’s Mexican Grill

comes with grilled chicken breast, black beans, fresh greens, and it’s wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla for just $7. Be sure to stop in for Taco Tuesday, when they have great drink and food specials.

up. Regulars start showing up early at this fun, favorite Bakersfield spot to reserve a seat. A lunch favorite is the $5 Burger and Beer, served all week-any time, but I like the Daily Pasta Special. For only $7 you choose from spaghetti or pasta with meat sauce and garlic toast. You should also stop by for their popular $10 Steak Night,Thursday 5:3010:30 p.m.

El Portal

6641 Ming Ave. The service is always great at this longtime Kern County classic. The food is simply delicious and the va riety of specialty dishes won’t >>

Big Popy’s Deli

Bagels & Blenderz 1927 20th St. Once you visit this little slice of culinary heaven there is no turning back. These are not just sandwiches and burgers. These are your new best friends. Everything is perfect, from the bread and fresh ingredients to the thinly-sliced meats and the tasty spreads. The Avo Chicken Sandwich is my personal favorite. Or, for a reasonable $7.50, try one of the many fresh salads like the Tuna Salad.

It is mixed greens topped with their classic tuna salad, red onions, tomato, cucumber, and herb vinaigrette.

Narducci’s

622 E. 21st St. Located in Old Town Kern, a visit to this local favorite might seem out of the way, but trust me when I say it’s worth changing your regular route for what this place is dishing Muscle Burrito Tasty & good for you, too!

Bagel Benedict

DINING on a DIME

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The Original

Village Grill

CheapEats disappoint. You can switch up your favorite dish with every visit. The Tequila Chicken is a dish to savor for only $9.95. It comes with tender chicken marinated with fresh lime juice, and it’s sautéed with a splash of tequila to give it a perfect touch. Served with a side of vegetables and rice, and garnished with pico de gallo and avocado slices.

Village Grill

2805 F St. Ah, a lovely downtown hideaway.

Great atmosphere and the food is wonderful. The breakfast specials change throughout the week but they are a reasonable $6.99. Visit on your lunch break

Spinach and sundried tomato wraps stuffed with lettuce, sundried cranberries, and bean sprouts.

and indulge in the Wrap for Two. For $9.99 feast on spinach and sundried tomato wraps stuffed with romaine lettuce, baby green sprouts, sundried cranberries, and bean sprouts, with assorted veggies on the side and honey mustard dipping sauce.

Prime Cut

Have you tried the chilaquiles?

Tortilla chips topped with Oaxacan and cotija cheese, crema, onion, avocado, cilantro, and topped with two over-easy eggs!

Moo Creamery

9500 Brimhall Rd. When you step into Prime Cut, you transport yourself to a lavish Mardi Gras festival…only it’s every day. The brightlydecorated walls and lively music deliver a great overall experience and the food is just as desirable…just bursting with Cajun flavors and savory spices. Choose from most appetizer items for under $10, but I recommend sinking your teeth into the Cheesy Bacon Fries for only $9. You won’t regret it.

Benji’s

Moo Creamery

7701 White Ln. This is the perfect place to stop by with some friends, have dinner, enjoy a drink, and play some pool…even if you’re on a budget.

If you’re looking for something filling, I suggest the new Chief Pastrami Sandwich for $8.99. You’ll be biting into thinly-sliced pastrami piled high on a hoagie roll served with grain mustard. And you get a hefty side of fries with that, and a dill pickle.

4885 Truxtun Ave. If you are going to go to Moo, you should come with an appetite and a tingling sweet tooth. The pastries, candies, and mouthwatering homemade ice cream will have you hooked. The charming ‘50sstyle diner (with a modern twist) is quite welcoming. Moo is also known for their savory burgers, like the popular Moo Burger, but if you are in the mood for something off the beaten path, try the Chilaquiles (served all day): crisp tortilla chips sautéed in their special salsa roja, topped with Oaxacan string cheese, cotija cheese, crema, onion, avocado, and cilantro. All this is topped with two over-easy eggs (substitute eggs for chorizo, chicken, or turkey). Still, this hearty meal is only $8.50.

64 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

4001 Rosedale Hwy. Located on Rosedale right off the 99, Benji’s is a fast route to a filling Basque meal. At only $9, the lunch setup is a perfect meal. For the price, you get fresh bread, butter, salsa, soup, beans, green salad, French fries, and hot vegetables. If you find you’re still in the mood for something Basque, get your hands around the Beef or Lamb Dip for the same price.

Firehouse

Enso

1419 19th St. The great food and its chic, casual ambiance have made Enso a downtown Bakersfield staple.

Stop in for their great happy hour—half off appetizers and great drink specials. If you are visiting for lunch, you can’t go wrong with the Bento Box. It’s a plate

When they say “where are we eating?”

You’ll know exactly what to say!

Enso filled high with teriyaki salmon or chicken, tempura, a California roll, rice, and salad…all for only $10.

RJ’s

9440 Hageman Rd. / 1660 Pine St. If you are looking for an all-around fun atmosphere while you dine, RJ’s is your spot. Let’s not forget to mention the amazing food. This great restaurant has been around for a decade now and the food has to be the reason. The appetizers are all mouth-watering. The Avocado Egg Rolls are exceptional, or you could dig into the tender and perfectly-seasoned Chicken Wings with your choice of sauce: honey BBQ, teriyaki, buffalo, or Cajun. Be sure to stop in for Wing Wednesday when they are only $5.99.

RJ’s

tender and flavorful Fish Enchilada topped with a creamy white sauce for an out-of-thisworld $7.

The Nines

801 Truxtun Ave. At The Nines, you get the 5-star restaurant, the 5-star treatment, and the 5-star food…without the 5-star price. Everything is easily affordable and the great lunch specials will keep you coming back day after day. You will be pleasantly surprised to see that almost all of the items on the lunch menu are under $10, too.

The sandwiches are delicious and full of flavor and the tasty salads are very fresh. For only $9, enjoy the Skirt Steak Dip: a grilled skirt steak on toasted ciabatta, covered in Swiss cheese and Portobello mushrooms,

The Bento Box Filled with all your “flavorites.”

with a side of French jus, and served with fries.

taco topped with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. The entrée also comes with a side of refried beans and rice for only $9.95.

Sinaloa

Si Señor Grill

910 20th St. From its beautiful Victorian building, full of character and history, to its traditional menu, this Mexican gem never disappoints. Grab a quick lunch with friends or enjoy a family dinner—Sinaloa can accommodate. I love the Enchilada and Taco Plate for lunch. Your plate comes with a beef enchilada smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese, and a ground beef

Seasoned chicken wings, celery, and dip.

The Nines

La Costa Mariscos

716 21st St. This is a small seafood restaurant across the street from the Bakersfield Museum of Art. While you wait for your food, dig into the delicious chips and salsa and enjoy the nauticalthemed decorations on the walls.

Obviously, if you are a seafood lover, you will want to indulge in everything on the menu (not at one time, of course). Try the

2210 Airport Dr. This spacious restaurant is just down the street from Meadows Field and a few miles down from the 99, so it’s easy to get to no matter what side of town you are coming from. The Happy Hour specials are fantastic and the delicious buffet (Sunday-Friday) at only $8.59 will surely put a smile on your face. For lunch, load up on the Carne Asada Tacos, which come with onion, cilantro, pico de gallo, and a side of rice and beans. They’re only $8.59 during lunch. >>

Grilled skirt steak on toasted ciabatta, covered in Swiss cheese and Portobello mushrooms.

DINING on a DIME

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 65

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Union Station Deli, BBQ and Grill

1723-A 18th St. This is not your typical deli. Union Station is a deli trapped in BBQ heaven. Located just a block west from the Padre Hotel, this place delivers tasty, filling dishes to many hungry locals. They whip up some delicious BBQ every work day but on Fridays, prepare to sink your teeth into their finger-licking good BBQ Ribs for only $8.99 for a half rack. But the meal also comes with chili beans and garlic toast. Or, stop by any other day of the week day for a cold sandwich at only $6.75. Add chips and a drink for $2.69 more.

J&B’s Brookside Market

4700 Coffee Rd. It doesn’t matter whether you stop by this place for breakfast or lunch; J&B’s always delivers the same quality in its fresh deli sandwiches, crisp and flavorful salads, and savory pastas.

If you’re hankering for something hearty, try their Brookside Club—a toasted roll with mayo, avocado, lettuce or sprouts, tomato, onion, smoked turkey, and bacon for only $6.49. Another great sandwich is the Meat and Cheese Lover for only $5.99.

B Ryder’s

7401 White Ln. This place is always packed when it comes to entertainment, but the menu almost steals

66 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Sweet or sassy?

Find them all here.

Cafe Crepes the show for me. Why? Almost everything is under $10. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich is one of their most ordered items. It’s seasoned and grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and it comes with a generous portion of fries for only $8.99. The Supreme Carne Asada Nachos are a showstopper. Crispy tortilla chips topped with carne asada, nacho cheese, diced tomatoes, jalapeño, onions, and a side of guacamole and sour cream… all for a low $9.99.

Cafe Crepes

1028 Truxtun Ave. This place is simply amazing: a quaint, intimate cafe with big-city taste. A must-try crepe is the Chicken Pesto. It comes with diced chicken breast, roasted peppers, diced tomatoes, fresh spinach, mozzarella cheese, and a creamy pesto sauce. You can also try this as a panini. Both are $6.95. After your meal, you must treat yourself to a local favorite, the Sweet Lemon Delight Crepe, filled with tangy lemon curd and topped with blueberry sauce for only $4.95.

Gimmee Some Sugar

Chicken pesto crepe with roasted peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and mozzarella cheese.

Chalet Basque

200 Oak St. Chalet Basque has the Basque flavors you’ve been craving, plus some new ones you haven’t tried yet. Of course, they’ve got a great deal on the Basque set up with all the fixin’s, including vegetable soup, salad, fries, beans, and more (for just $8.95), but I urge you to order the Supreme Chicken where you’ll be treated to wonderfully seasoned and cooked boneless chicken breasts with Swiss cheese, bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms for $8.95.

in a Vanilla Bean Cupcake or the decadent Butterfinger Cupcake (all cupcakes are $3). My favorite items are the Blondie Bar and the Sweet and Salty Loaded Popcorn—it’s popcorn, pretzels, toffee, sea salt, and melted dark and white chocolate.

It’s also $3. >>

Yellow Submarine Roll

Miyoshi Japanese Restaurant

Sweet and Salty Loaded Popcorn

8200 Stockdale Hwy. If you are looking for fresh and delectable sushi, Miyoshi is a solid choice in Bakersfield. It’s a great spot for your sushi fix because it’s inexpensive and the service is always friendly. Plus, they’ve got a great list of rolls to choose from. If you have not already tried it, the Yellow Submarine Roll is for you (and it’s only $8.95).

This roll is made of shrimp tempura and avocado wrapped with soybean paper, then topped with spicy tuna and a special sauce.

Gimmee Some Sugar

2100 19th St. Consider this my warning: If you walk into this magical place, you will have to put any diets aside. The cakes, the cupcakes, and the bars will have your mouth watering before you even get to the counter. Indulge

Miyoshi Japanese Restaurant

DINING on a DIME

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 67

The Original

CheapEats The Grill Hut

Lorene’s Coffee Shop

4120 Ming Ave. The name says it all. You’ve surely seen the small, red hut on Ming Avenue—a place where they do some serious grilling. The meats are juicy and full of flavor and the sides are quite impressive. If you are driving by for lunch or you are taking a meal to go, you simply can’t go wrong with any selection. Try Meal #2 for only $8.99. It comes with eight ounces of their delectable Tri-Tip, sliced to order, and it’s served with your choice of two side dishes (angel hair pasta, coleslaw, or ranch-style beans), a dinner roll, butter, BBQ sauce, and salsa.

Lorene’s Coffee Shop

6401 Ming Ave. / 1531 23rd St. With two great locations in town, Lorene’s is close by, no matter what side of town you are in. Friendly staff and appetizing food make this a great breakfast and lunch spot. The pancakes are big and fluffy and the country style potatoes are perfectly cooked. But locals rave about the omelettes. Sink your teeth into the California Omelette for just $8.69. It comes with perfectly seasoned eggs mixed with fresh avocado, bacon, and Swiss cheese.

Not to mention your choice of home-fried potatoes or hashbrowns!

Flame & Skewers

5486 California Ave. / 1201 24th St. Flame & Skewers has managed to meld the perfect flavors and spices from the Mediterranean with the California palate. The generous portions here will have you loosening your

Start the day in style with a tasty California Omelette.

belt a notch or two, but since you got such a great deal, you’ll walk out happier than a clam.

Feast on a Chicken Kabob, tender roasted chicken topped with grilled onions and tomatoes and a special sauce for only $5.59! If you made room for dessert, try their famous homemade Baklava for just $1.99.

Noriega’s

525 Sumner St. Noriega’s is the perfect place to be if you’re looking for a good ol’ family style lunch or dinner. Especially if you want to fill up without tapping into your 401k. That said, if you are around the area a bit earlier, it’s a smart choice to come in for a filling breakfast meal (served Tuesday-Sunday). The set up includes eggs, pork chops, bacon, Basque sausage, bread, potatoes, cheese, and wine. What will that set you back? Just a ten spot.

Flame & Skewers

J’s Place

2681 Calloway Dr. This is good ol’ down south BBQ where the meat falls right off the bones. The service is fast and friendly. The catfish is said to be some of the best in town because it’s made with those down home southern spices. The plate comes with two sides; choose from fried cabbage, “dirty” rice, yams, or mac and cheese. All this delicious food will only set you back $9.99 and you will most assuredly leave with leftovers for a late afternoon snack.

The Padre Hotel

1702 18th St. The Padre has a lively atmosphere and a fresh menu. It’s got a little something for everyone: The Belvedere Room, Brimstone, and the Farmacy Cafe all offer something a little different. If you are visiting for lunch, step on over to Brimstone and sink your taste buds into the Black Bean & Corn Quesadilla for just $9. You get roasted poblano chili, Oaxaca cheese, fresh cilantro, and salsa verde, and your choice of side: French fries, Cajun fries, or fresh coleslaw; fresh fruit or a side salad is only $2 more.

Asia Market & Teriyaki Bowl

Chicken Kabob Sandwich with grilled onions, tomatoes, and special sauce.

68 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

7701 White Ln. Asia Market isn’t just your local grocery store to stock up on foods from the Far East. Asia Market also has a delicious and affordable little restaurant inside: Teriyaki Bowl. They offer flavorful traditional meals for any budget. Come in and order a combination plate. It comes with steamed rice

Uh, OK...now I’m really, really hungry...LET’S EAT! and fried rice plus two items. One of my favorites is the Sweet and Sour Shrimp and the Mongolian Beef...all for a sweet $4.59.

Lengthwise Brewery

6720 Schirra Ct. / 2900 Calloway Dr. This is not just a place to grab a pint. Being the only micro-brewery in town, Lengthwise has set the bar pretty high. Not only do they serve up some satisfying beers, but their jam-packed menu has made a name for itself. The Stinky

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70 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

[ Exclusive Presentation ]

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ern K health

When you’ve got questions about your health, you can never have enough resources. Internet searches can be frustrating and medical guides can be confusing. Instead, we suggest taking a look at the pages of our annual KernHealth section.

We talked with members of the local medical community to bring you vital information on the state of healthcare in Kern County so you’ll have the answers when you need them most.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 71

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[ 2012 KERNHEALTH PRESENTER ]

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It has been said that the best form of health care is self care. That starts with each and every one of us taking an active role in the care of our health. Of course, that includes being mindful of your diet and being sure to get enough exercise. But taking an active role also means having knowledge of what’s happening in the world of health care, especially close to home, so that

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You’re holding a snapshot of health care in Bakersfield in your hand now, in this edition of KernHealth.

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of this is to ensure that patients have access to the care they need right here in Bakersfield, close to home and the people who are an important part of their journey toward wellness.

Mercy and Memorial Hospitals are proud to, once again, bring you this issue of Bakersfield Magazine’s KernHealth.

We hope you find the information helpful as you consider your health care options and we look forward to serving you if the opportunity arises. In the meantime, take care.

www.LAUNIHUNT.com 72 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

[ World-class Care ] Hospital Update:

Caring When it comes to world-class medical treatment, Bakersfield has some of the best care available—and it’s only getting better as the years progress. In an ever-changing world, where technological advances are great, we’ve not just been keeping up with the best in the industry, we’ve been setting the curve.

©istockphoto.com/Neustockimages

ForYou

­—Mercy Hospital­—

so they went from fourteen bays to twenty-

had a lot going on on both of their cam-

ciencies. All emergency departments in

Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield have

puses this past year. And a number of improvements are in the making, all of which focus on the well-being of patients.

one bays. This enhanced access and effitown are very busy, so we wanted to expand our capacity to keep up with that.”

An MRI machine was also added to

Vice President of Business Develop-

the Southwest center, which will drasti-

visitors to either facility can expect now

pital so that the patients have a better

ment Scott Thygerson elaborated on what

and in the future. “The ER department at

Mercy Southwest was recently expanded,

Mercy Southwest Hospital

cally improve the efficiency of the hos-

experience. “In the past, we would have

to transport patients from Mercy Southwest to our downtown location if they

needed an MRI done. Now they don’t

have to travel at all. It saves them time and trouble and it saves money, overall, for the hospital because we don’t

have to be responsible for transporting

them from one place to the other.” >>

ern K health

Mercy Hospital www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 73

Caring For You Another Orthopedic, Spine, & Hand

Center was opened this past year, and spine

surgeon Dr. Wahba (who obtained his fellowship from Harvard School of Medicine) has brought his world-class expertise to the

team of professionals there. Dr. Wong also

joined this new Center, and is a hand surgeon who was trained out of Boston.

Hans E. Einstein, M.D. Pavilion

As environment plays such an im-

portant role in healing, both Mercy and

Mercy Southwest have had the benefit of

between Madera and Los Angeles, which

to provide comfort to the families with chil-

both facilities. The admitting area at

our most precious citizens is available lo-

entire pediatrics care program was dubbed

having healing gardens planted around

Mercy’s downtown campus was moved

and completely remodeled. “It looks better than it did before,” Thygerson stated, which is great for patients. Service through the Spirit of Woman program has

been expanded, as well. There are sev-

means that specialized care for some of

cally. “The doctors in our PICU are all intensivists,” Frazier added. “They’re also

dren who are staying at the hospital. The

the Lauren Small Children’s Medical Center, thanks to a substantial donation,

the same group that manages the PICU in

and the children’s emergency department

service you would find there.”

their own emergency entrance.

Madera, so we offer the same quality of

Additionally, the front of the Hans

will be expanded. Children will even have Memorial seeks to launch mobile med-

eral events—like the Day of Dance—that

E. Einstien, M.D. Pavilion was given a

ical units to do cardiac and diagnostic

women’s health.

facade match all the significant improve-

times during the year, too. And, Frazier

have been added to enhance awareness on On the horizon, Mercy Downtown will

be opening an Inpatient Cancer Unit,

and construction is underway. This partic-

ular unit will be the only such place in our

local market to offer inpatient treatments and it will bring more comprehensive care to those who need it most in our area.

­—Bakersfield Memorial Hospital­—

Over this past year, Bakersfield Memo-

rial Hospital has succeeded in the goal

of increasing patient access to numerous

services. “We started an in-house, 24/7 OB/GYN hospitalist program,” said Gary Frazier, vice president of business devel-

opment for the hospital. “So we now have

“facelift.” The goal was to have the exterior ments made to the interior of the hospital

over the past few years and to make the

patient drop off and pick up run more efficiently. The changes, Frazier explained, were “both cosmetic and practical.”

Frazier went on to add that the develop-

ments anticipated within the next year are

testing throughout the city a couple of

happily reported, the patient-family centered care program that they launched two years ago has been a huge success, so

residents can expect to see further expansion in that area in the near future.

­—San Joaquin Community Hospital­—

A surgical robot on staff at San Joa-

just as remarkable. “By the end of 2012,

quin Community Hospital? You bet. But

cath lab suite, which will be the first in

made at this hospital in the past year...

we will have completed a new bi-plane

the southern valley. This will provide ad-

vanced imaging technology for cardiac,

that’s just one of the major advancements and it’s a sign of what’s to come.

Vice President Jarrod McNaughton

neuro-interventional, and pediatric proce-

relayed details on the impressive upgrades

The overall pediatric services will also

“We did a complete remodel of our three

dures. It’s like going from 2D to 3D.”

SJCH has experienced recently.

constant care for not only pregnant women,

be seeing a lot of positive boosts. A remod-

cath lab suites. There are interventional ra-

And speaking of mothers and babies, the

beds, brand new equipment, and providing

and make repairs to the body without full

but for all OB/GYN emergencies.”

opening of Memorial’s Pediatric Intensive

Care Unit (PICU) this year was another great milestone. This is the only such place

eling of the pediatric unit means adding

more space, as well. Plus, the local Ronald McDonald House on the Memorial campus now has a playground and playhouses

74 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

diology suites where physicians can go in

surgery. We also added the da Vinci Surgi-

cal Robot. This is the newest one available,

with state-of-the-art technology over any-

San Joaquin Community Hospital

partnership between their physicians. “The

forty-two physicians that work through us are now going through a new partner,

Cardiovascular Care Group. The former partnership we had was experiencing a lot

of inactivity over the past three years, so with this new group, we anticipate a lot

of changes. A new strategic plan is underway.” This means that there will be new thing like it in Kern County, in terms of surgical robotics. This helps the physicians be

more precise with difficult surgeries, is minimally invasive, creates smaller incisions, and makes for a shorter recovery period.”

One of the most anticipated additions is

the brand new AIS Cancer Center, due

to open in January. This will be the first hospital-based cancer center in all of Kern

County, featuring medical oncology, raBakersfield Heart Hospital

the basement level of the Wellness Center, where there will be an innovative machine

to process lab samples. “The samples will go into one end of the machine,” McNaughton detailed, “and the results come

out the opposite end. This is completely new technology in our community, and it will provide same-day test results.”

With the creation of this lab will also

come a “tube system” that will also run

underground. There, the transfer of documents between the buildings will become much easier, as they will be put into a

capsule and sent through the tube to the desired destination.

Some other upgrades will be highly vis-

ible: a traffic light is set to be positioned at

Chester and 27th Street so that people can

get from the Center to the hospital without the worry of crossing traffic; a Stardiation oncology, and outpatient surgery all under one roof. The Center was also

designed with the patient and their family in mind, so comfort and ease are sure to be a part of the overall experience (see the Cancer Update in this issue for more).

But there are a number of upgrades, one of

which won’t be easily visible to patients but will greatly help the productivity of

the hospital. It won’t be visible because the change is taking place underground.

Their core medical lab will be located in

bucks will be built in front of the campus;

and another medical center is set to be

constructed just north of the Cancer Center. This will be a Quest Imaging center, so, once again, life will be a little easier to those who are being treated.

­—Bakersfield Heart Hospital­—

Bakersfield Heart Hospital has accom-

plished many goals this past year, and they’ve got a number of new goals for the future.

President Randy Rolfe shared that one

of the most exciting things that has taken place over the past year is the change of

programs, office buildings, and additions to existing structures.

This hospital has been on the receiving

end of some major awards recently, as well.

Consumer Reports rated them number one for hospital safety in the state of California.

Through CareChex (a hospital quality ratings

third party system), they were recognized as being number one in patient satisfaction in

the market in overall medical care, overall surgical care, and overall hospital care. Their

Chest Pain Center has also been accredited by the Society of Chest Pain Centers, and the Joint Commission certified the hospital as a Primary Stroke Center.

Vice President of Business Development

Michelle Oxford also intimated that the

hospital did a soft launch of the new Wom-

en’s Heart Center, which will be located in the hospital and will specialize in providing early detection of heart disease in women. The Center will focus on education

and inexpensive screenings. “Our high-risk

patients will then be referred to a cardiologist,” Oxford said, adding that this will be

one of the less than fifty such Centers in the entire nation to focus on women’s heart health. “We will also have a support group

for women with heart disease. We are just

waiting for the space to be open, which will be in about three weeks.”

All of the heart monitors and hemody-

namic monitors were replaced this past year,

and a new specialized computer system >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 75

Europeans have known for years

the Fresh Feeling and Health Benefits of Bidet Use.

Now INTRODUCING... the revolutionary new HydraWand Bidet.

Designed for AMERICAN bathrooms, its patented “J” nozzle is a radical departure from European style bidets that look like kitchen sink sprayers. The long nozzle easily slips down into the bowl while you are using ANY STYLE toilet, allowing you to place its soothing fountain exactly where you need it, while the comfortable handle and trigger are above the seat.

Especially helpful for Healthcare Professionals, bariatric, post-surgery, handicapped, disabled, pregnant, and elderly patients.

Caring For You for the cardiac cath labs was also implemented. Bakersfield Heart Hospital is especially

pleased to say that they will be moving on to Electronic Medical Records very soon,

and will officially go live in June of 2013.

Due to their high HCAP scores (patient

satisfaction questionnaires required by the federal government), the hospital is

highly optimistic about the future it has in our community, and it aims to continue to

focus on efficient treatment times and the cardic care of local citizens.

­—Kern Medical Center­—

The CEO for Kern Medical Center, Paul

Hensler, conveyed that there were some

valuable upgrades done recently to the

hospital’s programs. With increased focus

on the managed care environment and for

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those patients that have government-funded healthcare, the hospital experienced success in access to care and the overall status in patient health, as well as the cost of care.

“We saw a sixty percent decrease in

emergency department utilization and ER admissions dropped sixty percent, as well,”

Hensler said, optimistically. “There have

been significant drops in both cost and admissions. We have also implemented patient navigators in the emergency department.

They help get patients into medical homes,

if necessary, and they also serve as a care manager for those with chronic problems by

keeping in touch with the patients and their

physicians. This has also helped to tremen-

For today in the city of David, a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. Luke 2:11

Rev. Msgr. Craig F. Harrison, V.F. Pastor

We would like to take this opportunity to wish the readers of Bakersfield Magazine a blessed holiday season, and every good wish for a prosperous new year filled with joy, hope, love and the peace of Christ Jesus.

900 H St. (1 block south of California Avenue) • 661-327-4734 • FAX 661-377-0363 76 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

dously reduce the overall cost and has improved the health status of our patients.”

What could be better than a decrease in

cost and an increase in good health? An

affiliation with Ross University School of Medicine to bring even more physicians to Bakersfield at an unprecedented rate. “We

have been working on this for the past year, but it is definitely something that will also

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Kern Medical Center have a long-term effect,” Hensler stated. “Having a medical school at no cost to the tax payers that will also be producing one hundred new physicians every year is a significant achievement for the valley.”

3 PATHS TO WELLNESS

This affiliation will boast 100 medical students in their third

year right here in Kern County, thus they will be graduating here

and may also stay to continue to provide healthcare to local residents. As the hospital is one of the few in the country to have students throughout their entire rotation, the possibility of the graduates practicing here is good.

Detoxification

Hormonal Optimization

Nutrition

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Through this partnership (which does not affect the affiliation

Make an Appt. with our 4000 Stockdale Hwy, Ste D New Naturopathic Doctor Certified Am. Board of Anti-Aging Medicine

generated to go toward education, including 10 scholarships for

www.antiagingwellnesscenter.com • doc@drdeol.com

that KMC has with UCLA), an additional $3.5 million will be Kern County residents attending medical school.

Hensler also explained that the hospital’s simulation lab will

be expanded and there will be an increase in telemedicine, the medical library, and online access capabilities. Eventually, a new

education building will be erected and they will engage different ways of communicating, like teleconferencing.

KMC has also been active in reaching out to high school students

in the community, encouraging those interested in the medical field to get involved by providing information and scholarships, as well. ­—Good Samaritan Hospital—

For comprehensive mental health and substance abuse servic-

es, Good Samaritan Hospital has the community covered. And,

thankfully, the programs and services offered continue to >> Good Samaritan Hospital

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 77

Caring For You improve, according to Chief Administra-

into the future as Good Samaritan looks

how quickly patients go home and how

seeking professional, intensive outpatient

to continue to find different avenues in al-

Hegland continued. “HealthSouth landed

tive Officer Ganesh Acharya. For those

into the needs of the community. “We want

mental health programs for either an adult,

ready-existing programs. We look at niche

help with medical detoxification, the op-

in order to bring greater offerings to Kern

child, or adolescent, or for those who need tions in Bakersfield are now better than ever.

“Over the past year, we have expanded

our children’s and adolescents’ services and have added two doctors who are board

programs from larger cities and use those

Physical changes have occurred, too. A

­—HealthSouth­—

tient beds, which puts the total at 66 beds.

upon such a framework,” Acharya said.

The only acute care rehabilitation hospital

also been fortunate enough to find a new

and they are looking forward to things only

There’s been a great increase in overall pa-

tient outcomes for 2011.”

portion of the building that wasn’t being

in a one hundred mile radius, HealthSouth

nurse manager and social services manager.

in the ninety-fourth percentile for all pa-

County. We are always looking to expand

certified in child psychiatry, Dr. Ma and

Dr. Doddakashi,” said Acharya. “We’ve

much their condition has improved to,”

has seen great things happen this past year,

getting better. CEO Sandra Hegland was

tient care and a variety of offerings in pro-

used efficiently was turned into six new paThe rooms have turned out very bright,

spacious, and have very large bathrooms to

help accommodate a patient’s stay, which can range anywhere between two days and six to ten weeks, depending on the injury.

So comfort and space are a must.

The hospital recently submitted an order

gramming and clinical services. These addi-

to the state to build on a grassy area in front

Good Samaritan has been partnering

be added. And as spinal cord injury pa-

tions have been very valuable to our team.”

of the building so that another 20 beds can

with Action Family Counseling in devel-

tients are so unique in their treatment, a

oping intensive child and adolescent out-

spinal cord injury team is currently being

patient services. The facility’s psychiatric

assembled to better treat these patients.

intensive outpatient program is the first of its kind in all of Kern County.

In the past, there has been a big push in

overall programs and clinicians to better

Hegland also explained that the hospi-

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital

serve the mental health needs of the youth

excited to report everything that the hospital

aren’t very many similar services and pro-

some incredible accomplishments.

Samaritan has continually striven to make

planning to establish what the community

cilities, the mental health facility on White

lot of pulmonary patients in Kern County.

top-notch and accessible to local citizens.

nary Rehab Program.” This program just

the hospital’s mental health services. It

its Disease Specific Certification from the

and detoxification programs, hoping that

“We have to report certain results to

in our community. As Acharya noted, there

has developed in the past year, in addition to

grams here in the Central Valley. But Good

“About four years ago, we did strategic

sure that the services rendered at both fa-

needs,” Hegland explained. “There are a

Lane and the hospital on Olive Drive, are

We then started working to build a Pulmo-

Further expansion is in the works for

became the third one in the nation to get

aims to expand the chemical dependency

Joint Commission Regulatory Body.

the diversity within these units will better

Medicare, as well, and we submit the infor-

ing developments in the adult psychiatric

party data collecting group that about 800

serve patients. Also, there has been ongo-

mation to Uniform Data Systems—a third

program, and these additions will continue

other similar hospitals report things like

78 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

tal is now home to new physiatrists (doctors specializing in rehabilitation) who

will help to keep medical programs running smoothly. Dr. Hassan Muhammad

Ali is the program director for the spinal cord injury program, Dr. Chris Yoon is the medical director, and Dr. Jay Yoo is the medical director over their pulmonary

area. Within the next year, the staff will be

up one more physiatrist to help assist with the overall rehabilitation of their clients.

“Three hallmarks that make up our vi-

sion and purpose for what we are providing are being patient-centered, community

focused, and quality-driven,” Hegland concluded. “We’re continuing to grow and improve for the good of the community.”

That’s something every hospital in Ba-

kersfield has in common right now, and that means great things for residents.

[ Cancer Update ]

Dr. Ravi Patel, founder and medical director for CBCC, and Dr. Giridhar Gorla.

When the diagnosis is cancer, the reaction is fear. Though the prognosis may be good, there’s still a multitude of emotions that have to be dealt with, both by the person afflicted and his or her family and friends.

ern K health

B

Fight

Bringing the to the Homefront ecause Bakersfield continues to be

back for integration into the Center.”

treatment options for local residents im-

patient safety and peace of mind, design-

Specialized centers, which employ top-

features, including optimizing privacy in

on the cutting edge of cancer care,

prove dramatically year after year.

notch physicians and offer amazing resources to cancer patients in our area, are

working to make sure that cancer doesn’t stand a chance in Kern County.

Take San Joaquin Community Hos-

pital’s AIS Cancer Center. Two years in the making (and officially opening

in December), this four-story facility will offer state-of-the-art treatment and

one-of-a-kind care to cancer patients in

Bakersfield. “Prior to designing and developing the Center, over a dozen cancer centers were visited across the country,”

said Lori Muir, director of the AIS Can-

cer Center. “The best practices in design, technology, and quality were brought

In addition to paying close attention to

ers made sure to incorporate a number of exam rooms; incorporating natural lighting, high-end infusion chairs, and guest chairs in the infusion bays; and designing the rooms to ensure patients have to take fewer steps, reducing the risk of falls. The

goal has always been “to create a welcoming and soothing environment,” Muir added. So lighting, sound, and projection

are used to provide a more relaxed patient experience. “And we have installed

Varian TrueBeam linear accelerators, the

latest in radiation treatment, offering the most sophisticated technology for beam accuracy to help save healthy tissue.”

The TrueBeam accelerators will be

located on the first floor, along with >> www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 79

The Fight five exam rooms, a CT-simulator, and the High-Dose Rate brachytherapy unit. The

recently named Wendy Wayne Resource Library is also located on the first floor.

The second floor is dedicated to medical

oncology, with six exam rooms, a procedure room, 15 infusion bays, and 4 private

infusion rooms. The lab and the pharmacy

are on the same floor, making medication administration easier. All this adds up to a tremendous boon for our community.

“The community has embraced our ef-

forts as demonstrated by the outpouring of

generosity either through donations or volunteering,” Muir said. “With approximate-

AIS Cancer Center at San Joaquin Community Hospital.

ly twenty percent of people leaving Bakersfield and the comfort of family and friends

to receive their cancer care, the community

tion Oncology at Howard University Col-

at CBCC in the past year, and the same

Everyone is excited to see the extension

he was the co-principal investigator, along

technology in the coming year,” explained

is excited to have a choice for care.”

of SJCH’s already exceptional care transfer into cancer treatment.

“The care provided at the AIS Cancer

Center will be aligned with the mission of San Joaquin Community Hospital and,

as such, each encounter will focus on the

physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of patients, families, and staff,” Muir

elaborated. “We want to do more than

merely provide medical treatments; the AIS Cancer Center will be a place of healing of the mind, body, and spirit through

the use of the latest technology, the most sophisticated design, the hiring of staff that

live our mission and the selection of physicians that are not only trained at the best

institutions, but are a ‘fit’ for our organizational mission, vision, and values.”

lege of Medicine in Washington, D.C. and

with Dr. Michael Steinberg, now Chair

of Radiation Oncology at UCLA, of a $3.5 million grant from the Radiation Research

excitement drives for newer changes and

Dr. Ravi Patel, founder and medical director for CBCC.

The past two years have seen continued

Program of the National Cancer Institute

cutting-edge research for lung, breast, co-

trials in underserved areas of Los Angeles.

myeloma. “Several CBCC breast cancer pa-

(NCI) to increase enrollment in clinical He’s bringing this passion to Kern County.

“Our goal has always been to offer the community worldclass cancer care that is centered on them, right here in Bakersfield.”

—Lori Muir, AIS Cancer Center “Our goal has always been to offer the

lon, and prostate cancer, as well as multiple tients participated in a recent pivotal clinical trial conducted at CBCC to bring hope for breast cancer patients all over the world,” Dr.

Patel said. “This international study led to the FDA approval for Perjeta, a newly approved treatment for a select group of HER-

2 positive breast cancer patients. Patients with HER-2 positive cancers, who would

have failed all other therapy, had no other

options for treatment until this pivotal clinical trial led to the approval of the new drug.”

On a similar front, CBCC also participat-

That includes Dr. Oscar E. Streeter, Jr.,

community world-class cancer care that is

ed in a major study for lung cancer which

medical director of the AIS Cancer Center.

The same attitude is held at Compre-

lung cancer patients with the genetic muta-

M.D., FACRO, who has taken the helm as

Previously, Dr. Streeter was the professor

and the chair of the Department of Radia-

centered on them, right here in Bakersfield.” hensive Blood and Cancer Center.

“A lot of exciting things have happened

80 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

led to the approval of the drug Xalkori for tion of the ALK gene.

But that’s not all. “This past year, a

Live Long, Stay Slim, Stay Healthy more sophisticated tracking system for the movement of tumors

MISSION OF THE CLINIC: Treat Obesity and Related Conditions; Heart Attacks, Strokes, & Cancer.

cides with the already-instituted CyberKnife technology, which

for breast cancer patients and prostate cancer patients to have their

Plan: • Complete Physical & Cardiac

Examination by the M.D. Complete Evaluation of the

• Lifestyle Modification Techniques Obese Patient • Dietitian & Customized Diets for the Detection

• Treatment of Heart Disease & Diabetes of Heart Disease, Stroke, Cancer,

• FDA Approved Drug Therapy Diabetes,

• Laparoscopic Gastric Surgical Intervention Sleep Apnea, &

• Pre & Post Care Follow-Up & Support Therapy Hypertension.

guided technology with a sophisticated tracking system. This will

95% Success Rate • Proven Track Record FREE Initial Consultation

during treatment was added,” Dr. Patel said. That system coinis a noninvasive approach to treating inoperable tumors with sub-millimeter precision.

“CBCC will be bringing in technology to do MRI-guided pros-

tate biopsies and breast biopsies which has never before been

available in Kern County,” Dr. Patel explained. “This will allow

tumor accurately identified and precisely biopsied through the MRI help reduce discomfort and help in proper diagnosis and treatment.”

Recently, the green light was given for CBCC to provide the first

vaccine approved for the treatment of prostate cancer. “For years,

there has been the struggle to see whether the immune system of an individual can attack cancer. One of the most pivotal studies

done in this area has shown that there is a way to collect special-

T. A. Don Michael, M.D Founder & Director

FACC, FACP, FRCP, FCCP, FESC, FAHA Board Certified in Cardiology & Internal Medicine Board Certified in Bariatric Medicine

Clinical Professor of Medicine, UCLA

Advanced Heart & Medical Center

861-7933 5343 Truxtun Extension AdvancedHeartMedical.com

Rendering provided by SJCH

The proposed light-filled lobby of the AIS Cancer Center.

ized blood cells from an individual and prepare them in a way that

re-administering these cells would allow their immune system to recognize prostate cancer cells. CBCC has worked hard in meeting the standards to be approved as one of the only free standing

sites in the western United States to have the ability to collect these

specialized cells from the patient and provide this form of therapy right here in Bakersfield.”

Big news is also coming from the Florence R. Wheeler Cancer

Center. “The coming year will be an exciting one for the organizations that have been dedicated to caring for cancer patients in

Kern County for decades. Mercy and Memorial Hospitals and the

Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center are coming together

in a new partnership to ensure that residents of Kern County >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 81

The Fight continue to have access to quality treatment options close to home,” explained Sandy Doucette, manager of marketing and public relations for Mercy and Memorial Hospitals.

“The new relationship provides patients

at the Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center

access to additional services and technol-

ogy like the Cyberknife and directly links

CBCC with acute care hospitals that offer

surgical options like robotic surgery with

da Vinci and Kern County’s only dedicat-

Patients at the Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center at Mercy Hospital will soon reap the many benefits of the Center’s new partnership with CBCC.

be complete,” Doucette continued. “Nurs-

Surgeons, meeting their strict guidelines

pitals each have a legacy of service to the

these patients will be at the bedside in this

This partnership will also help to en-

joining forces the tools each held indi-

ed inpatient oncology unit that will soon

es trained to care for the special needs of

for the highest standard of cancer care.”

area designated for cancer patients and

sure that even pediatric patients have

cy Hospital Downtown is expected to be

recently opened pediatric intensive care

their families. The inpatient unit at Mercomplete in early 2013. Mercy Hospitals is recognized by the American College of

access to local treatment, through the unit at Memorial Hospital.

“CBCC and Mercy and Memorial Hos-

82 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Bakersfield area,” Doucette added. “By

vidually become part of the arsenal they can all offer patients in the fight against cancer now and into the future.”

That’s great news for Bakersfield and

Kern County.

[ It Really Happens ]

Nothing Short of a

Miracle It has been said that there are miracles taking place all around us, every single day. In the general madness that can consume daily life, it is easy to forget such happenings.

However, if you are in the medical field, you may be witness to such things more often than the average person. And sometimes, when faced with a medical emergency, you’re the average person experiencing the miraculous, firsthand.

Hayley & Brian Tuttle, Dr. Sarabjeet “Chhabra” Singh

W

ern K health

e spoke with some members

of our community—those who

have found themselves to be in such a situation where nothing short of a miracle would help. Their very lives were in the hands of the experts they sought medical

attention from. Thankfully, they not only lived to share their inspiring tales with us, they are also working on producing some miracles, of their own.

—Brian Tuttle—

Brian Tuttle, a 37-year-old single

father, was reading Dr. Suess to his

ten-year-old daughter, Hayley, and her

friends when he started to feel strange.

“I started to feel weird and faint,” Tuttle recalled. “I felt very out of sorts. I began to sweat and I couldn’t walk. Eventually

I started vomiting. My mother had just had a heart attack not too long before

that, and she had been experiencing the same symptoms. I knew something was

wrong, so I called a friend of mine for help, and she said to call 911. On the way

to the hospital, I was told that I was having a heart attack. We got to [Bakers-

field Heart Hospital] in lightning speed,

where I was admitted to the ER.” >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 83

Miracle Tuttle’s doctor, Dr. Sarabjeet “Chhab-

ra” Singh, remembered his ordeal well. “I

received a call at home from the ER physician, and I came right in. Brian was complaining of chest discomfort. His parents

were with him, and his mother kept saying,

‘Save him, save him.’ ” As Dr. Singh spoke with Tuttle, he went into ventricular fibril-

lation and died. “I said, ‘Shock him now.’ ” When Tuttle came back, they took

him to the cath lab so that Dr. Singh could put stints into his heart, as one

of his valves was completely blocked.

While being transferred to the lab,

Tuttle died, again. And, once more, Dr. Singh ordered him to be resuscitated.

“Most patients, we will shock up to three or four times before giving up,”

Dr. Singh disclosed. Tuttle was revived an astonishing 10 times.

The following day, Dr. Singh met Hay-

Nandakumar Ravi, M.D.

Board Certified in Digestive, Liver, & Nutritional Diseases

www.bakersfieldgi.com Nandakumar Ravi, M.D. is dedicated to providing stateof-the-art diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

We treat each patient as a partner and make patient education a central component of medical care. Sensitivity and discretion are used in handling all of our patients’ concerns.

Dr. Ravi specializes in diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and the biliary system.

• Colonoscopy • Endoscopy • Video Capsule Endoscopy • ERCP

• Esophageal pH & Motility Study • Treatment of Liver Diseases • Cancer Screening • On-site endoscopy center 9870 Brimhall Rd. #100 Bakersfield, CA 93312

20041 Hwy 202, Valley Blvd, Unit 4 Tehachapi, CA 93561 (661)

822-0377 Fax (661) 588-8749

(661)

588-8725 Fax (661) 588-8749

84 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

ley, who asked when her father would be

back home. “I didn’t know what to tell

her,” he said, “because he was intubated

at that time.” Two days after his ordeal,

“Most patients, we will shock up to three or four times before giving up,” Dr. Singh disclosed.

Tuttle was revived an astonishing 10 times.

Tuttle was awake, but he was in extreme pain and felt highly depressed. He went

into the ER on a Monday. When Friday rolled around, Dr. Singh came to him and told him that he wanted him to start

walking. “I thought he was crazy,” Tuttle

recollected. “I was in so much pain. Just getting up was a struggle.”

However, when he did get up to take

a walk down the hall with the support of a walker, everyone stopped what they

were doing to witness this incredible

happening—even personnel from different departments came to see. It was

such a remarkable occurrence that Tuttle felt a renewed sense of determination. “I decided that I was not going to be that guy in physical therapy. I felt good and strong after that,” he said.

Tuttle was sent home with a heart de-

vice that would revive him, should he go

into cardiac arrest again—but, luckily, he didn’t need it. As Dr. Singh stated, two

James, Will, Grace & Rachel Ireson

things made Tuttle’s survival possible: the

quickness with which he called 911 and the determination on both their parts to not give up, no matter what.

­—Rachel and Will Ireson—

Rachel Ireson and her husband, Will,

were ecstatic when they found out that

diagnosed with preeclampsia. When she

“We were so excited,” she detailed. “No

gone up significantly and she was placed on

they were going to have their first child.

one really ever thinks that anything

traumatic is going to happen when you

went in for her follow up, her levels had

plete oxygen, but that he was alive. When

bed rest for the duration of her pregnancy.

ly able to see her son. “They say the first

Days after she started her stay at San

get pregnant. I remember talking to my

Joaquin Community Hospital, her protein

At 22 weeks, Ireson noticed that she

what a healthy number should be. The

friends about what to expect.”

had started swelling. Her doctor told her to keep an eye on it, but nothing seemed

too suspicious at that time. The couple did some traveling shortly thereafter, but

The nurses told her that he was on com-

levels were at 7,000, more than double situation had become unavoidable—they

were going to have to perform an emergency c-section at just 28 weeks.

“I was just so emotionally over-

she was physically able, Rachel was finaltime you see your child is the best day of your life,” she said, emotionally. “But it

was by far the worst day of my life. He was covered in wires, IVs, a breathing

mask, and the little bits of skin you could

see were transparent.” For 77 days, her two pound, six ounce baby boy, James,

stayed at the NICU at SJCH. Rachel also

the swelling only seemed to get worse.

whelmed. I remember reading that the

they returned, and by that time, not only

twenty-eight weeks was fifteen percent.

every tiny improvement was a new mile-

lucky person. He wasn’t crying or breath-

James was five pounds and still had to con-

She was about 25 weeks pregnant when had the swelling not abated at all, but she started to see spots, as well.

There was no question that she had to

get to the hospital fast to undergo some

testing, which is exactly what she did. Af-

ter being monitored overnight, she was

chances of an infant surviving delivery at The odds were bad, and I’m not a very

ing when he was born, and he was taken

right into the NICU before I even knew what was wrong. All I could think was, ‘I’ll never get to see him.’”

had to stay in the hospital.

Every day, James was a little better, and

stone. When their stays were through,

tinue oxygen at home for months after, but over time, he grew stronger, and he is now a happy, healthy three-and-a-half-yearold boy, and an older brother to his >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 85

Miracle baby sister, Grace. “His greatest joy

in life is making people laugh,” Ireson

Kirstie Manning

said, smiling. “He loves it.”

—Kirstie Manning—

When Kirstie Manning noticed a lump

in her throat, she knew something was wrong, but, like most high school Seniors

would, she didn’t assume that it was any-

thing life-altering. “I was going to the doctor for two weeks, and no one could figure

out what was wrong with me,” Manning

recalled. “Then one day, I got a call telling me to come in right away to do some blood

tests.” The tests confirmed the doctor’s

suspicions that Manning had Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The mass that she was feeling in her throat was eight inches long, and went all the way down to her ribcage.

She started undergoing chemotherapy

treatments, and would spend two weeks at the hospital, then three weeks going back and forth from her home to the hospital,

and would repeat this pattern from October until January, when the doctors finally

deemed that she was in the clear and able

to get back to her usual life. And that is exactly what she did, until just two and

a half years later—when Manning was 19—and she got the heartbreaking news

that not only was the mass back, but it had made its way down to her kidneys.

“The second time was more traumatic

for me, because it was much more serious than the first round. I had to do higher

chemo treatments and they also took

out some stem cells before I started the

chemotherapy so that they could replace them afterward to help assist with my recovery,” Manning detailed.

She was back to alternating stays be-

tween being home and being in the hos-

pital. “Being at home kind of sucked be-

cause if my blood cell counts were down,

has to be monitored and gets tested ev-

couldn’t even see my cat!” In addition to

Hodgkin’s lymphoma did strike her

I wasn’t allowed to leave my room. I

the other treatments, she also had to go

through radiation. “Overall, I don’t really remember much of that period of time. I

Miracles may seem like they only happen in movies or fairy tales, but that isn’t so.

Life is full of miraculous happenings, touching our lives and the lives of those around us. do remember my sister coming to cut my hair, because I decided that I wanted a hair

ery few months, but while getting Non-

twice, she has been told that a third occurrence is extremely rare.

While the overall process was hard, it

wasn’t completely negative. She met her

husband, Jeffrey, before she was diagnosed the second time. “I thought he was going to leave me when we found out that

it had returned,” she remarked. But that clearly wasn’t the case. The newlyweds

are now expecting their first child—another thing that the doctors had told her would be nearly impossible after what her body went through—and look forward to a very long and happy life together.

Something as incredible as a miracle

cut before it all fell out,” Manning smiled.

may seem like they only happen in movies

stem cell transplants, Manning is now a

miraculous happenings, touching our lives

After chemotherapy, radiation, and

very healthy 22-year-old wife. She still

86 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

or fairy tales, but that isn’t so. Life is full of and the lives of those around us.

[ Pets Saving Lives ] Fergie may be only two years old, but she’s funny, compassionate, and a great kisser. So when her owner, Linda Sullinger, heard of the new pet therapy program at San Joaquin Community Hospital, she knew her part-Chihuahua/ part-Yorkie canine would be a great fit— except for the kissing.

Diana and Tom Mestmaker helped start the dog therapy program at Memorial Hospital.

S

Just What the Doctor Ordered

Fuzzy Love

By Eman Shurbaji

ullinger has two dogs licensed,

(big, small, no matter the breed) must be

mal-assisted pet therapy programs at lo-

also meet requirements (such as a back-

trained, and enrolled in the ani-

cal hospitals: Fergie and Riley, a joyful,

large golden retriever who has been vis-

iting patients at Memorial Hospital for the past three years.

“I think it’s a fantastic program. It’s

an orientation. Dogs and their handlers

are assigned badges, dates, and times for visits, and then the magic begins.

Norma May, manager of volunteer

services at San Joaquin Community Hos-

While a select few hospitals around the

positively affecting patients. “We started

country have had therapy dog programs for

decades, dog therapy is now an ongoing, active program at many local hospitals.

“We began the program in 2005, and

now it’s enhanced with our ambassador

volunteer program,” said Nancy Carr, patient and family manager at Memorial Hospital. “We used to have four dogs, and

ern K health

ground check); and they need to attend

fun, and, even for employees, brings a smile to everyone’s face,” said Sullinger.

Linda Sullinger and “Fergie”

certified and trained; their owners must

pital, hears stories all the time about dogs

in May of this year, and the response has

been wonderful,” she said. “One time, a Collie sensed a lady was depressed and

crying, after a family member died, and

he was right there to comfort her,” May said with a grin. “Even family will call to talk to the dog.”

For patients in hospitals facing the un-

now we have twelve, with some visiting

ease and unpredictability of illness and

noon,” she added.

tive outlet and a chance to get their minds

in the morning, and some in the afterThough San Joaquin and Memorial

hospitals each have their own respective

rules, the crux of the process is essentially the same: dogs with compassion

accidents, therapy dogs allow for a posioff any pain and frustration. According

to Rebecca Johnson, director of the renowned Research Center for HumanAnimal Interaction at the University >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 87

Fuzzy Love of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medi-

cine, dog visits relax the body by reducing the stress hormone, cortisol.

“It’s widely known in literature that cor-

tisol decreases upon a visit with a canine,” said Johnson. “There is [also] a wide range

of research demonstrating that dog visits to

people in hospitals are associated with pain relief and decreased anxiety,” she added.

It’s even been proven that patients both

inside and outside hospitals may benefit

from dog therapy, so dog therapy isn’t

only used in clinical settings; or at senior

and rehabilitation centers; or with one dog visiting many—canine assistance is

helping diabetics and epileptics live in-

dependent, fruitful lives.

For Patti Kasper, a local Type 1 diabet-

ic, her black Labrador puppy, Tzaylie, is her lifeline. Tzaylie, Hebrew for “my shadow,”

helps keep Kasper’s blood sugar in check by alerting her when there is a drop or spike

in blood sugar. This is especially important

because Kasper works as a social worker and drives all over the county, posing a huge risk, as she is often alone.

Kasper received her dog from Warren

Retrievers, an organization based out of

Virginia that provides diabetics with alert

dogs. Her dog is so well-trained that two dozen out-of-range sugar levels had been detected within a four-day timespan. Dogs

alert their owners by placing a paw on the leg, right below the knee.

“Every three months for two years the

trainers come back and they teach you new skills,” said Kasper. “In January, [Tzaylie]

will learn how to get glucose tablets, juice boxes, pump kits, and learn how to use

different signals for when I’m high versus when I’m low.”

Diabetes alert dogs are conditioned to

look out for a certain smell, much like some

Patti Kasper and her amazing blood sugar sniffing dog “Tzaylie.”

which are often donated from agencies that

“We train the dogs in homes before we

dogs sniff out bombs or narcotics. The dogs,

provide dogs for the blind, must first learn

actually place them in the homes of the indi-

Edwards, the executive director of the non-

we match them according to personality.”

to differentiate smells. According to Carol profit organization Early Alert Canines, the

vidual,” said Edwards. “After we train them, Kasper, who has lived with diabetes

reasoning behind this is complex.

for 47 years and recently became a board

dumped in the blood after there’s a drop

Diabetes Foundation, stresses that her dog

“Dogs are alerted when chemicals are

in blood sugar,” said Edwards. “Dogs are trained to detect lows in blood sugar

member of the Central California Type 1 gives her a renewed sense of trust.

“Type 1 diabetics often lose the ability to

[as opposed to spikes] because it’s more

feel physical symptoms like weakness, and

Early Alert Canines specializes in

husband and officemate are not always

acute,” she added.

training the dogs—a six-month process—

and then matching them with diabetic clients. The organization first receives the

this can be very dangerous,” she said. “My

around, and I know she’s always watching

me, giving me a sense of security,” she added.

Edwards echoed these feelings of re-

dogs when they are 18 months to two years

assurance. “There’s a lot depression as-

to the scent of lowered blood sugar, which

about weight and food, and dogs give

old. Then, they are conditioned to respond is identified through the breath and skin.

sociated with diabetes; always concern them unconditional love.”

Among the wonders of diabetes ser-

vice dogs is their training for overnight support. This is especially important for

children, wherein sleep apnea becomes a grave concern for parents.

Colleen Nordgren’s five-year-old son

Derek has both Type 1 diabetes and epilepsy. She is looking forward to receiving a

service dog in the near future. Like diabe-

tes service dogs, epilepsy service dogs can 88 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals Therapy dogsBy: andDignity volunteers at Memorial Hospital.

detect the onset of a seizure. How epilepsy

dogs can detect onset remains a mystery,

but the most accepted theory is that the dog senses changes in their owner’s behavior.

“I look at the possibilities, and compan-

ionship. It’s phenomenal what they can do,” said Nordgren optimistically.

Those receiving assistance and comfort

are at ease, but the owners on the other side of the leash receive some therapy, too. Diana and Tom Mestmaker helped

initiate the dog therapy program at Memorial Hospital, and have been active participants for the past six years.

“It just makes you happy,” said Tom.

“Everybody loves to pet a dog; animals comfort people a lot,” he added.

Diana echoed her husband’s zeal for

the program. “Visiting kids helps you let

go, and giving them a chance to forget their illness for a little makes it so worth it,” she said elatedly.

The diversity of dogs, coupled with

the enthusiasm of their owners, gives pet

therapy volunteer programs the momentum to keep going.

The hopes are high that the programs

will continue to grow in Bakersfield and

Kern County as patients, owners, and dogs participate, giving new meaning to the term “man’s best friend.”

“All the dogs are wonderful and >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 89

Muhammad Ashraf-Alim MD, FCCP, FAASM

Critical Care Medicine • Sleep Medicine • Pulmonary Disease • Fellow American College of Chest Physicians • Fellow American Academy of Sleep Medicine • Diplomat of the American Boards of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care Medicine, and Sleep Medicine We specialize in the treatment of asthma, COPD, emphysema, bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, valley fever, pneumonia, lung cancer, and pulmonary hypertension.

Evaluation and treatment of adults and children (more than 5 years) with various sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, nightmares, and enuresis.

Fuzzy Love have unconditional love,” said Carr.

That concept was certainly understood

by Cindy Holloway, who has been active in animal therapy since 2008 and who is currently a participant in the dog therapy program at San Joaquin Community Hospital.

“We’ve done dog safety education in

schools and at mental health and hospice

centers, and started volunteering at San

Joaquin in June,” she said of her 3-yearold French Bulldog, Stonie.

Holloway and Stonie visit San Joaquin

Community Hospital on Wednesdays, and

Breathe Easier...

Come Visit Us At Our New Location 1 block east of our old location.

Moises Aguilar and “Stonie” enjoying each other’s company.

6001A Truxtun Ave., Ste. 100 • (661) 377-0091 www.lungandsleepdisordercenter.com

The Rehabilitation Center of Bakersfield

Compassionate Care for the Mind, Body, and Spirit The Rehabilitation Center of Bakersfield’s mission is to provide high quality, cost effective, compassionate care, using the latest technology within our resources. As a Skilled Nursing Facility in the community, we believe that education and community involvement are the foundation of providing better health care.

2211 Mount Vernon Ave. | Bakersfield | 661-872-2121 90 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

the two are always looking forward to visiting patients around the hospital and in the

ER. Upon one visit, she came across a little boy in the ER who had fallen.

Eight-year-old Moises Aguilar had

slipped at church, and was lying down in

the hospital bed, looking very sad, waiting to be seen by the doctor. Upon seeing Stonie enter the room, his demeanor changed entirely.

“The dog made me happy,” he said

with a smile.

Simple words for a program of com-

plex emotional proportions. Local caring canines giving people a chance to

further embrace and celebrate life: happiness and healthiness, indeed.

CCMC Central Cardiology

Kern Faculty Medical Group

South Valley Vein

Southern California Orthopedic Institute

Comprehensive Cardiovascular

Optimal Hospice Care

Atul Aggarwal, MD Cardiology Clinic

©istockphoto.com/Neustockimages

KernHealth Profiles

The KernHealth Profiles section serves as an important resource for our community. First and foremost, it gives local medical professionals the chance to share information about their specialty and training. Second, it introduces readers to some of Bakersfield’s and Kern County’s most reputable doctors and medical facilities. This special Achievers Series presentation promotes excellence in our healthcare community.

THE

SERIES

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 91

CCMC CENTRAL CARDIOLOGY Brij Bhambi, MD, Chief of Staff For over four decades, excellence in cardiovascular

duce electrophysiology to Kern County. First to bring stent

care in Kern County has been epitomized by Central

interventions in coronary arteries. First to adopt stents for

Cardiology Medical Clinic. Speaking on behalf of Central

treating patients with heart attacks. First to introduce a

Cardiology, Dr. Brij Bhambi explained some of the accom-

variety of minimally invasive technologies to remedy

plishments that distinguish Central Cardiology.

blocked arteries to replace extensive surgical opera-

“We have been privileged to serve Kern County and

tions,” Dr Bhambi said, “to name a few.”

we take this commitment seriously. Our motto is to pro-

With a dedicated research department, CCMC contin-

vide compassionate, personalized, and world-class care

ues to partner with national leaders to further cardiovas-

right here in Kern County—care that

cular care. CCMC is one of the busi-

is preventative, efficient, and amal-

est centers in the state of California

gamates innovative tools in a seam-

for developing carotid artery stenting

less manner.

as an alternative to traditional knife-

“From the service perspective,” he

based procedures. At CCMC, they

elaborated, “we recognize transpor-

have accumulated an envious re-

tation issues that are unique to the

cord that compares favorably to the

segment of population we cater.

best anywhere. Currently, CCMC is

With this in mind CCMC has offices

participating in technologies that will

in multiple locations that include Te-

make pacemakers MRI friendly.

hachapi, Frazier Park, Taft, Lake Isa-

Recently CCMC added two new

bella, Delano, Ridgecrest, Shafter,

physicians who are trained in the

and counting.

emerging field of structural heart dis-

“Having a presence in all these

ease. “Now we can help people who

communities helps us service our pa-

were previously considered too high

tients locally and attend to their needs in a customized manner,” Dr. Bhambi added.

risk for traditional surgery.”

CCMC is a clinic that takes the “usual” in a cardiology

CCMC is the largest and most comprehensive group for the entirety of cardiovascular care in Kern County.

clinic to “most comprehensive” under one roof offering an array of cardiovascular services including specialized

CCMC has ten board certified cardiologists, all of

clinics, echocardiography, stress testing, a state-of-the-

them with multiple certifications. Patients evaluated at

art vascular lab, advanced CT scanning, and an inter-

CCMC have many intangible benefits. It’s common to

ventional lab that uses the newest technologies to attend

have “in patient room” conferences between multiple

to arterial problems in an out-patient setting.

cardiologists to help facilitate constructive clinical decision making.

“Our commitment to the community is firm. Excellence in healthcare is a necessary ingredient. At CCMC we aim

CCMC is a story of many firsts. “We were the first to intro-

higher. Much higher!”

2901 Sillect Avenue, Suite 100 x Bakersfield x 800-HEART-24 www.heart24.com

KernHealth Profiles THE

SERIES

92 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

(l-r) Tetsuo Ishimori, MD; Sanjiv Sharma, MD; Sarabjeet “Chhabra” Singh, MD; Rasham Sandhu, MD; Brij Bhambi, MD; Peter C. Nalos, MD; William Nyitray, MD; Jared M. Salvo, MD; Kirit Desai, MD

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 93

Kern faculty medical group Compassion, Passion, and Excellence

(upper l-r) Albert McBride, MD; Augustine Munoz, MD; Dale Robbins, PA; Alan Scott Ragland, DO; Greti Petersen, MD; Victor Ettinger, MD (lower l-r) Alaleh Bazmi, MD; Richard Busch, MD; Mansukh Ghadiya, MD; Suresh Kumari, MD; Royce Johnson, MD; Arash Heidari MD

Kern Faculty Medical Group has been a multi-specialty

sukh Ghadiya, Family Practice; two Infectious Disease spe-

medical facility serving Kern County since 1982. Having just

cialists, Dr. Arash Heidari and Dr. Royce Johnson, focusing

celebrated 30 years of bringing some of the best care to

on HIV and Valley Fever, respectively; Pediatrics is headed

local residents, this group is excited to say that it shows no

by Dr. Suresh Kumari; Dr.Albert McBride handles Urology;

sign of slowing down.

Internal Medicine/Pulmonary Disease is led by Dr. Augus-

“One aspect that truly sets us apart is that almost all

tine Munoz; Dr. Greti Petersen and Dr. Alan Ragland, who

of our physicians have clinical faculty appointments at

concentrate on Internal Medicine/Primary Care; and Dale

UCLA,” said Dr. Royce Johnson, who specializes in infec-

Robbins, Physician Assistant.

tious diseases. This is one of the many reasons why Dr.

This accomplished group is both a Medicare and GEM-

Johnson feels KFMG truly is “the best multi-specialty medi-

Care provider, three of the group’s doctors are bilingual in

cal practice in town. All of the services that we offer make

English and Spanish, and they also have an Immediate Care

us a highly unique group.”

Clinic that can take patients without any appointment need-

Indeed, KFMG’s specialists cover several aspects of pa-

ed. The office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5

tient care. The impressive roster of professionals there in-

p.m., and Immediate Care Clinic Hours are Monday through

cludes Dr. Alaleh Bazmi, specializing in Internal Medicine/

Friday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. till 12 p.m.

Primary Care; Dr. Richard Busch, ENT; one of two board cer-

The motto at KFMG is “Compassion. passion, and excel-

tified Endocrinologists in town, Dr. Victor Ettinger; Dr. Man-

lence,” and that is exactly what every patient receives.

2201 Mt. Vernon Avenue x Bakersfield x 661-872-7000 www.KFMG.net

KernHealth Profiles THE

SERIES

94 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

South Valley Vein Helping You Look And Feel Your Best

Gregory Williams, MD Local vein specialist Dr. Gregory Williams was raised

serves as a Board of Director for the Houchin Community

right here in Bakersfield. He and his family live here full-

Blood Bank. Dr. Williams is the only doctor in Bakersfield to

time, as do his parents, siblings, and their families. Af-

dedicate his practice solely to varicose and spider vein

ter being away at the University of Kansas for medical

treatments. Since opening South Valley Vein Center, Dr.

school, he returned home to begin his general surgery

Williams has performed thousands of ultrasound-guided

practice and raise a family.

varicose vein procedures using the latest technology. He

He has been serving the Kern County area for almost

elaborated, “It is important to continue learning, advanc-

20 years, and he now specializes exclusively in phlebol-

ing, and providing the best available techniques in vein

ogy—the study and treatment of venous disease. He left

treatments for the patient to get the best results. Patients

general surgery and founded South Valley Vein Center

used to miss one to two weeks of work after varicose vein

(SVVC) over 10 years ago after seeing a need in our

treatment; now it’s a day or two.”

community for a full-time vein specialist. “Our goal at

South Valley Vein Center always tries to give the pa-

South Valley Vein Center is to help patients look and feel

tient the most positive experience possible. Dr Williams’

better about their veins, whether they’re varicose or spi-

staff said, “We feel it’s important to provide an honest,

der veins,” explained Dr. Williams.

efficient, effective office. We want the patient to be seen

Dr. Williams is certified by the American College of Phlebology and by the American College of Surgeons. He also

promptly, treated kindly and professionally, and receive the best results possible.”

1500 Haggin Oaks Blvd. x Bakersfield x 661-654-8346 www.svveincenter.com

KernHealth Profiles THE

SERIES

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 95

OPTIMAL HOSPICE CARE Making a Difference in the Lives of Veterans

Kim Boyette, Optimal Hospice Nurse; Vince Anslinger, Hospice Patient

Vince Anslinger is one of the most mentally sharp 94 year

tion. In alliance with the Veteran’s Administration, this program

olds you will ever meet. Vince loves America and, like many

strives to honor and support veterans at the end of life.

other veterans from “The Greatest Generation,” he is not

Since 1998, Optimal Hospice Care has been a dedicated, professional support system for individuals nearing the

shy about sharing his perspective.

Vince enlisted in the Army in November 1937. He was

end of their life as well as the family members and caregiv-

trained in field artillery and ultimately became an Army

ers who support them through that journey. The We Honor

Quartermaster until 1940 when he transitioned to reserve

Veterans program helps Optimal individualize care in order

status for 8 months. In February of 1941, Vince joined the

to support the unique needs of veterans. Todd Jeffries, Di-

Army Air Force and was stationed with the 64th Army Air

rector of Community Relations, says the program reflects

Force Base Unit at Minter Field. After nearly 5 years at Minter

the essence of Optimal Hospice, which includes address-

Field supporting the war effort stateside, Vince was trans-

ing different facets of an individual’s needs. “We not only

ferred to Greensborough, NC. As he prepared for deploy-

care about our patient’s physical comfort, but about their

ment, the atomic bombs were dropped, ending the war in

emotional and spiritual well-being, as well,” said Jeffries.

the Pacific.

“By recognizing the sacrifices they have made to serve our

It is stories like this that compelled Optimal Hospice to be-

country, we can tailor the support we offer accordingly.

come a partner in the We Honor Veterans program, spon-

We want to take the focus off death, and help them live

sored by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organiza-

their lives to the fullest.”

1675 Chester Avenue x Bakersfield x 661-716-4000 www.optimalcares.com

KernHealth Profiles THE

SERIES

96 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Comprehensive Cardiology Leading the Fight Against Heart Disease

(l-r) Dr. Viral Mehta, Dr. Supratim Banerjee, Dr. Nasser Khan, Kiersten Young-Melendez, PA-C; Dr. Leopoldo Puga, Dr. Moksedul Habib

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Medical Group is leading

ing the need for any immediate, unnecessary procedures.

the fight against heart disease. What began in 1995 as a solo

”The practice also has a commitment to research and edu-

practice in a single office with three employees has grown

cation,” he continued. ”All our physicians hold affiliation with

into a full-service cardiology facility with five full-time board-

UCLA Medical Center and we are active in clinical research

certified cardiologists, one physician assistant, and a research

trials for new medications and devices. We get a preview of

coordinator offering a full array of services including patient

what is next in the field of cardiology and we can bring those

consultations, diagnostic testing, heart health education, and

advances to your patients.” And while technological advances

patient centered clinical research trials.

are wonderful, Dr. Mehta is adamant that they should not get in

”It is our vision to remain on the leading edge of technol-

the way of physician-patient relationships. ”These services allow

ogy and information,” Dr. Viral Mehta explained. That vision

us to spend time with patients. Technology shouldn’t come in

has driven Comprehensive Cardiovascular to bring cutting-

the way of our relationships; there should be no barriers.”

edge procedures into our community that were not previ-

As health care continues to change, one thing will remain

ously available to patients. ”We can perform high-resolution

constant, and that is Comprehensive Cardiovascular’s com-

CT angiography,” he elaborated. This type of angiogram

mitment to providing high quality cardiac care to Bakersfield

is non-invasive, unlike the traditional angiogram, which in-

and the surrounding communities now and well into the fu-

volves the insertion of a catheter into a blood vessel, and can

ture. Trust Comprehensive Cardiovascular and their trained

help physicians determine if further testing is needed, reduc-

staff to care for your heart.

5945 Truxtun Avenue x Bakersfield x 661-323-4278 www.ccvmg.com

KernHealth Profiles THE

SERIES

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 97

Southern California Orthopedic Institute ”Experience Excellence” Since 1994, the Southern Califor-

scopic and arthroscopic techniques.

nia Orthopedic Institute has been

He is board certified in Surgery of

assisting

Kern

County

residents

the Hand, Plastic Surgery, and Gen-

with all of their orthopedic needs.

eral Surgery, and is a member of

With its growing staff, SCOI is now

ASSH and AAHS hand societies. He

better equipped than ever to

completed his fellowship in Hand

bring the specialty care that pa-

and Microvascular Surgery at the

tients require.

University of Southern California and

SCOI is pleased to welcome our

served as Assistant Clinical Profes-

latest addition, Dr. Kamil Erfanian,

sor while in practice at the Univer-

specialist in hand, wrist, and micro-

sity of North Carolina, Chapel Hill,

surgery. His experience involves the

where he received multiple teach-

treatment of hand and wrist fractures,

ing awards.

Dr. Kamil Erfanian

arthritis, tumors, tendon and nerve dis-

Dr. Erfanian is committed to bring-

orders, hand burns and skin cancer,

2400 Bahamas Dr., Suite 200 661-328-5565 www.SCOI.com

ing the best care possible for local

children with congenital hand prob-

residents seeking answers to their

lems and minimally invasive, endo-

wrist and hand issues.

KernHealth Profiles

THE

SERIES

Atul Aggarwal MD Cardiology Clinic State-of-the-Art, Evidence-Based Cardiovascular Care At Atul Aggarwal MD Cardiology Clinic, patients will take comfort

County to provide catheter closure of ”holes in the heart.”

from knowing that they are receiv-

Dr. Aggarwal, a native of India,

ing good medical care from a car-

completed his cardiology/interven-

ing and well-trained professional.

tional fellowship from the University

The clinic offers a broad array of

of Vermont. He is a fellow of Ameri-

services, with stress tests, echocar-

can College of Cardiology, AHA,

diograms, Doppler of neck and

and Society of Cardiovascular An-

lower extremity arteries/veins, and

giography & Interventions. These

laser treatment for varicose veins.

affiliations help him stay abreast on

Dr Aggarwal is available for pa-

current treatments to better serve

tients in local area hospitals’ EDs

the local community.

with coronary angioplasty, stent,

Dr. Aggarwal and his staff feel

and vascular procedures, ensuring

privileged to be in this community

that every patient’s needs are met

and strive to provide state-of-the-

in a prompt and efficient manner.

art, evidence-based cardiovascu-

He is the first cardiologist in Kern

lar care.

98 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Dr. Atul Aggarwal 9330 Stockdale Hwy., Suite 600 661-664-0100 www.AggarwalClinic.com

GARDENING WITH MRS. P

PHOTO COURTESY OF LYNN PITTS

Dazzling Dahlia

The Holidays are busy enough, but then come the resolutions, to-do lists, projects, and promises to make. Mrs. P is going to take you off the hook for a few moments and share 10 really simple garden things that worked for her in 2012.

Try growing strawberries in hanging baskets and say goodbye to snails eating your berries. I used to have such failures when planting strawberries in the ground or even in my raised beds. This year I grew large fruit with no munching damage.

2.

Repurpose small water bottles. Keeping those hanging baskets well watered can be a boring chore. Here’s my trick. Fill empty plastic bottles ¾ full of water and freeze (discard the bottle caps). Lean the bottles into the baskets and let them drip irrigate in between regular watering. This was especially handy for me in late summer when my baskets dried out so quickly.

3.

Of all the summer flowering bulbs to plant in early spring, I’ve been totally thrilled in 2012 by my dahlias. After a few mistakes over the years, I finally found an area that they like and it’s dampish and partially shaded. Our hot afternoon sun tends to toast dahlias. The taller varieties will flop if not staked and this should be done at planting time.

It’s best to drive a 5- to 6-foot stake into the hole just off center. Place the dahlia tuber horizontally in the bottom of the hole two inches from the stake with the growth bud pointing towards it. I break a few

Hydrangea Majesty

rules by not digging up the tubers in the winter to store (like who has time?) and I interplant them in large tubs with evergreen perennials. It’s fun to try different sizes and petal florets. Dahlias grow in all colors but true blue. I’m partial to the cactus flower forms as they’re quite dramatic and decorative. My method of display is to simply cut a few of my “giants” and float them in a large, low, crystal bowl for an instant wow factor!

4.

Oh, happy day, this was my first year ever of having my precious hydrangeas become blue. I owe it all to digging in organic garden sulfur. If used before blooms form, this natural acidifier will result in blue sky, blue bird, blue bonnet, blue velvet BLUE. Remember, the Big Trick is to use the sulfur well before blooms form and water in well.

5.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RILEY HUNTLEY

1.

By Lynn Pitts

Weed preventing granules work! I realize I’m late to the party on this product, but I can’t extol its virtues enough. After a thorough weeding of your garden beds, scatter the weed preventer (Preen is one brand and there are others on the market). It will last for at least three months. It’s just fabulous and while it won’t kill existing weeds or do windows, it’ll do as promised. >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 99

6.

Mon-Fri 9am-3:30pm PL & PD Insured Lic.#307741

Keep a large plastic spray bottle filled with a mixture of liquid lawn weed and crabgrass killer handy. Write “Lawn Weed Killer” on the bottle with a black Sharpie. Keep another large plastic spray bottle filled with a mixture of all-purpose weed and grass killer. Write “Death to all comers” on this bottle. Then, as you stroll through your garden with both bottles in your holster, cowboy style, you’ll be prepared to zap any and all noxious weeds. As Mrs. P always says, Better Living through Chemicals.

7.

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“Knock, knock...” “Who’s there?”

“Eucalyptus.” “Eucalyptus who?”

You clipped his hair too short. That joke always gives me giggles even if you’re rolling your eyes. We Californians take eucalyptus for granted as it’s all around us, growing by leaps and bounds. My 2012 experiment was to plant a small Silver Dollar (E. Polyanthemos) in a large pot. Bet you didn’t know you could grow eucalyptus in a container. Well, you can

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LYNN PITTS

Gardening with Mrs. P

“Honey Boo Boo” must be harvested at peak ripeness. I can’t wait until next year’s crops. Fresh figs are a thousand times better than dried or canned figs so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

9.

As the saying goes, “Know when to fold ‘em, know when to close ‘em.” This applies to trees and shrubs that have to go. I hated to cut down my elderly plum tree but it had become a waste of time, money, and space. Trees that are too big cannot be reduced in any meaningful way and still be kept healthy and productive.

My plum tree could not be rejuvenated with all its heart rot, cankers, and stress cracks. I’ll miss its flowering spring beauty but not its issues. Likewise, I’ve removed several other plants due to old age. The rosemary and lavender had become woody after five years. Even after shearing them back by one third each year, it was time to say adios. And I’ve bitten the bullet and dug up a whole hedge of old santolina that will never again win a beauty prize.

10. and what’s more, you can cut its branches to use in flower arrangements, thereby keeping the plant trimmed. Silver Dollar eucalyptus makes great long-lasting filler in vases and will make you look almost professional.

I give pet names to a few of my favorite plants. This year’s plant is named Honey Boo Boo. It’s a BLUEBERRY! I even picked my first little crop this summer, enough for not one but TWO pies! Rabbiteye and Highbush blueberry varieties can be grown in Bakersfield if they’re given a hearty diet of acid-forming fertilizers and iron sulfate. I planted Honey Boo Boo in the same area where my (blue) hydrangeas seem to enjoy hanging out. It’s always useful to experiment and try new things in the garden you’ve not tried before.

8.

So there are the 10 things that worked for Mrs. P in 2012. Also spandex. v

Brown Turkey Fig

When I was a little girl we had a huge old fig tree in our yard with smooth, gray trunks gnarled in such a way that I could climb and curl up in with a book to read. This year I planted a Brown Turkey Fig because I’ve been told that it will produce two crops of figs on a small tree, no more than 12 feet tall. I like the fact that figs have lush foliage and are drought tolerant. They won’t ripen off the tree and

100 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

home & Garden

We all need a little peace once in a while. For some, a cup of tea and a good book is all it takes to relax. Others will veg out in front of the TV. But what if you’re someone that wants to be one with nature but the regular flower garden isn’t cutting it anymore?

Zen, a word that essentially means “meditation,” is a branch of Buddhism that is centered on achieving enlightenment. In that regard, things that are considered “Zen” are meant to help a person gain inner tranquility. Thus, the purpose of a Zen garden is to bring a sense of peace and sooth the mind and soul.

Throughout the years, the practice of creating a Zen garden has remained popular in the West—even here in Bakersfield. Today, there are a few modern twists (like making one in an Altoids tin) that people can employ when attempting to create backyard nirvana. If you’re thinking of adding a little Zen into your life, here are some things to consider:

A Japanese maple tree, bonsai trees, bamboo, sand, water, rocks…these items are on the list of common Zen garden “ingredients.” It’s important to remember that this garden should be reflective of your preferences—you don’t have to add everything you read about or see. Use your taste as a guide. Determine how big a gar-

©istockphoto.com/ozgurdonmaz/lensflairuk/studiocasper/wragg

den you’re wanting, whether it’s transforming your entire yard into a Zen habitat or if you just want to dedicate a small corner. You want to be sure that you make your space look as natural as possible. This means that you can forget the typical, structured lines of most gardens and opt for undefined edges—ones that spill over slightly into other areas and don’t have a definite end to them. Most of the supplies, like your rocks, sand, and trees, can be found at local garden stores.

Also, as many Bakersfieldians know, bamboo can go crazy when planted directly in the ground here, so think about using a large planter for that. The rest of the vegetation can go right in the ground. Plants in this certain style of garden should be few and far

>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 101

home & Garden resources

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between. It is recommended that, as the garden is supposed to be designed in accordance with the elements and seasonal changes, you stick to a few seasonal plants. Again, the Japanese maple is a strong

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the sand or spray copious amounts of weed killer before you pour the sand—you don’t want gnarly weeds popping up in your tranquil garden.

And if you do intend to use sand, make sure it’s not right below any trees you have planted or will plant. There’s nothing peaceful about spending hours pulling fallen leaves out of sand…unless you’re into that kind of thing.

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little by little. And unless you have a lot of room, waterfalls and streams are features you might need to “get in a can” so to speak.

There are numerous free-standing waterfalls and fountains on the market that you can purchase and include in your Zen garden that will provide the sound of running water without all the hassle.

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other calming green plants. Decorate the area with pagoda lights, for ambiance in your newly Zenified backyard.

When planning, think of stones, fine gravel, and pebbles of all different sizes. These will add dimension and contrast in your Zen garden. There are a number of landscaping businesses in town where you can purchase bulk pea gravel, stones, and rocks, too.

So now that you have an idea of what you’ll need and why, all that’s left to do is pick your area, gather your supplies, and go to work crafting a peaceful garden getaway that will help you de-stress your life. n

102 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Sources: Monrovia.com; ehow.com; hgtv.com

G R E AT

t

G E TAWAY S

Monterey

hose from Bakersfield are aware of just how much John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath influenced our community in the years since its publication. But there’s another place in California that has benefitted from being referenced in a Steinbeck novel: Cannery Row in Monterey.

The story depicts the rough life for those who worked at the fish canneries (canning mostly sardines) along the coast before the Great Depression, but the real life history of Cannery Row is as dramatic and fascinating as any novel could hope to be.

It was in the late 1850s that the area was settled by Chinese salmon fisherman and, later, Portuguese shore-whalers inhabited the Bay in the 1880s. Around this same time, the railroad arrived in the area, bringing with it tourism and immigration.

The Monterey Bay fishing industry would continue growing well into the 1900s. The first cannery was built near Old Fisher-

man’s Wharf by Frank Booth at the turn of the century, but it wouldn’t take long before Ocean View Avenue would become home to a number of fish canneries, giving it the nickname “Cannery Row.” The area was bustling throughout the

first two decades of the 20th Century, but when the stock market crashed and the country was thrust into the Great Depression, the canneries suffered. A revival in industry would come with World War II, but shortly after, it was discovered that the sardines had left the area, and Cannery Row became a ghost town—for just a short time. Steinbeck’s Cannery Row was published in 1945 and interest in the area increased dramatically.

Still, it would take a few decades for Ted Balestreri and Bert Cutino, two Monterey restaurant managers with strong familial connections to the fishing industry, to reinvent Cannery Row by first opening the Sardine Factory Restaurant, an elegant eatery on the “wrong side of the tracks,” in 1968, and then founding Cannery Row Company in 1976 and transforming the once decrepit canneries into a peaceful and inviting waterfront location. No longer would the area be a reminder

>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 103

Great Getaways

of harsh economic times—it would pay tribute to the fishermen who worked long hours and in harsh conditions and to the town of Monterey as a whole.

If you haven’t had the chance to visit, there’s no time like the present. The drive takes just a little over four hours from Bakersfield, but this is not a hotspot to rush through. Cannery Row offers the perfect weekend getaway with adorable inns, fantastic restaurants, exciting entertainment, and beautiful scenery.

Where to Stay Cannery Row’s numerous oceanfront hotels have a combined 700+ guestrooms so you’ll always have an incredible view from your hotel room. Whether you want four-star accommodations or would rather stay in a small inn, there are overnight options for everyone. First, there’s the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, which Forbes Travel Guide gives four stars. The hotel’s Mediterranean-style ambiance, luxurious service and décor, and ocean-facing windows will make you swoon. Then there’s the Sardine Spindrift Inn and the Factory Monterey Bay Inn, both of which were included in top 10 lists of hotels con-

american tin cannery

sidered to offer the most “romance” by TripAdvisor, and offer such amenities as feather beds, marble baths, and cozy atmospheres. Of course, if you’re looking for something quainter, there’s the Victorian Inn, a charming boutique hotel away from the main road that offers rooms with fireplaces and views of the Bay, in addition to providing wine and cheese receptions to guests.

Grab a Bite While seafood is a given, there’s “a catch” in this area that sets it apart. Cannery Row restaurants pride themselves on utilizing fresh, local produce in addition to sustainable seafood items.

There are tons of dining options for every palate—everything from award-winning fine dining establishments to casual restaurants and cafés that line the historic streets and waterfront.

Cannery Row’s most famous restaurant is the Sardine Factory,

104 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

known all over for its lavish décor and interesting menu. It’s also regarded as a favorite place for a “date night.” Why? The Sardine Factory’s homemade desserts, live piano music, specialty cocktails, and easy-to-share tapas provide romance and a decadent dining experience.

For something a little more “sea-worthy,” you can head to Schooners Coastal Kitchen & Bar at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, which offers fresh fare in a unique indoor/outdoor dining environment outfitted in nautical décor. The restaurant has a heated outdoor terrace which makes year-round “al fresco” dining comfortable while you enjoy contemporary American cuisine.

Don’t miss the Cannery Row Brewing Company, a popular eatery housed in a renovated historic building known for delicious burgers and over 70 beers on tap! The restaurant is owned by David Bernahl and Rob Weakley, the founders of the Pebble Beach Food & Wine event, so you can rest assured that these fellows know their stuff. It’s a great spot for lunch or dinner.

If you’re just looking for a quick bite, stop by Louie Linguini's Seafood Shack for items the whole family can munch on.

For a fun night out, try Blue in Café and Billiards, which features 11 tournament pool tables, a Z Folio full bar, dance club, and gallery full-service dining, all overlooking the Bay.

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Now that’s Entertainment But it can’t all be eating and sleeping, can it? Thousands of visitors each year visit Monterey for the plethora of exciting activities and hotspots. For example, you can stroll the beaches; bike along the Coastal Recreation Trail, which follows a 17-mile drive north to Castroville; kayak off McAbee Beach; or scuba dive in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. But if you’d rather see what is around you on foot, check out the Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum; have your fortune told by Mrs. Laurie, a palm and card reader; visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to discover what ocean life is like; get an old-timey family portrait taken at Doc Wenzel’s; mini golf at Ocean’s 18 Black Light Miniature Golf…that’s just the beginning.

For the shopper in all of us, there are plenty of antique stores, fashion boutiques, specialty candy and food stores, not to mention art galleries. Eleven galleries along Cannery Row display the works of both local and national artists, including prints, paintings, glasswork, sculptures, and other collectable pieces. Specializing in Czech art glass, handmade designer jewelry from the United States, Spain, and Australia and giclee large format nature photography, Z Folio Gallery, one of Cannery Row’s most popular galleries, features the works of one of the most respected glass artist of all time, Mr. Bohumil Elias, and his son, Bohumil Elias Jr. There are so many adventures to be had for couples, friends, and families, alike, that you won’t want to leave. If you’d like more information on this lovely locale, visit CanneryRow.com or call (831) 372-2259 to start planning your visit today. v www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 105

106 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 107

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www.HungryHunterSteakHouse.com 108 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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.

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 109

YUMMINESS TO NEW LEVELS.

the yum factor

By Mike Stepanovich One of the many things I enjoy about my wife, Carol, is that because she’s essentially a lifelong Bakersfield resident—her family moved here when she was five—I often get a history lesson about all things Bakersfield of the

Glimpses of Bakersfield’s history line the walls at Juicy Burger.

last half century or so.

I’ve learned where high school kids hung out when she was a student at East Bakersfield High School. I’ve learned about various businesses that have come and gone. And I’ve been introduced to many people that she’s known through the years—either in person or through memories.

So you can imagine her excitement when we walked into Juicy Burger in the shopping center at L Street between 23rd and 24th streets and discovered it was decorated with a mural depicting Bakersfield of yesteryear.

Along both the eatery’s north and south walls are scenes highlighting images connected to Bakersfield high schools in the 1950s, vintage cars and trucks, and various other landmarks: n Kern County Fair, with an old Buick, Oldsmobile, and Ford pictured. n South High School, featuring a red ’57 Chevy, Jolly Kone, South Chester Drive-in, and the Merrimac, South High’s yearbook. n East Bakersfield High School, with a ’53 Ford pickup, Ken-Ken’s Drive-in, Luigi’s, and the ’57 Sierran yearbook. n Bakersfield High School, with Warren’s Hamburgers, a black ’50 Mercury sporting flames on the front, and the Oracle yearbook. n North High School, with the 99 Drive-in Theater, Jumbo’s, a yellow ’51 Chevy pickup, and the Galaxy yearbook.

Other old Bakersfield landmarks pictured include the Terrace Drive-in Theater, Union Avenue Plunge, Lake Ming boat drag-racing, Stan’s Drive-in, Paola’s Bowling Alley, Michner’s, Booth’s Records, Fa-

moso Drag Strip, Fox Theater, Sinaloa, Bill Lee’s, Nile Theater, Maison Jaussaud’s—the list goes on.

Vintage cars pictured, including a ’54 Pontiac, ’57 Cadillac, and ’34 Ford, provide a veritable trip down memory lane.

Juicy Burger has an old-time feel. Tiles along the walls in a wainscoting effect are a red-and-white checkerboard design. The chairs are those tubular stainless steel models typical of the 1950s. The employees all wear black pants, white shirts, and white paper soda-jerk hats.

It’s also a blending of two stores: Juicy Burger and the adjacent Dreyer’s Ice Cream shop, both with the same ownership. If you order a milkshake at the Juicy Burger counter, the guy at the Dreyer’s counter makes it and passes it through.

I must confess that I came to Juicy Burger with some trepidation because I didn’t enjoy my first visit more than a year ago. On that visit our burgers were dry, and the place seemed to have a battalion of small, noisy children running all over the place. It wasn’t a pleasant experience.

I acknowledge that our first visit was only a short time after the business had opened, so it was quite likely it was still working through the kinks that new restaurants go through. So at the urging of my editor at Bakersfield Magazine, we gave it another try.

What a difference! Aside from the delight Carol experienced from the murals, we found that our burgers were plenty juicy and just the way we

110 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

WHAT’S COOKIN’ ordered them. The sides were great too, but I’ll get to them in a minute.

You come to Juicy Burger for one reason: the burgers. The restaurant doesn’t have salads, breakfasts, or any of the other things you might find at the chain burger places. Burgers, fries, onion rings, shakes, and sodas—that’s it. Oh yes, they do have a hot-dog on the menu and chicken breast instead of beef, but nothing else.

And there’s no such thing as the standard “Juicy Burger.” You build your burger yourself. It’s the opposite of the chain places where you order from among the various named choices on the menu: Big Mac, Super Star, Whopper, Jumbo Jack—they all have a recipe that defines each one.

About all you can do to those burgers is make minor adjustments, like heavy mayo or hold the onion.

What makes Juicy Burger unique is that each burger is customized; you start from scratch and build it exactly the way you want.

You start with an order sheet with a red-and-white-checked border; grab a golf pencil from the pencil bin next to the stack of order sheets, and start the process. The sheet is easy to use: you just check the box next to each item you want, and hand it to the clerk.

Step one is “Choose a Protein.”Your choices are quarter-pound beef patty of fresh Harris Ranch beef ($2.99), double meat ($3.99), chicken breast ($4.99), fried egg ($2.99), or all-beef hot-dog ($2.99).

Step two is to choose a bun—either a fresh bun or “in a bowl,” which means you want your burger wrapped in lettuce leaves or in a bowl with a “salad blend” of chopped lettuce. There’s no charge for this step.

Nor is there a charge for step three, which is choosing your toppings.

Your choices are lettuce, red onion, “fresh jalapeño” (I assume this is different from the pickled or canned jalapeños one typically finds; I haven’t ordered a burger with jalapeños, so I don’t know for sure), relish, tomatoes, and pickles. If you want your onions grilled, that will be an extra quarter.

I’m skipping to step six, the sauce, since there’s no charge for any of the sauces. Your choices are ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, thousand-island

At this point, assuming you aren’t getting grilled onions and are sticking to one hamburger patty, you have a classic burger for $2.99. Seriously.

OK, let’s say you want to go beyond basic. Let’s say you’d like a cheeseburger. No problem, that’s step five. Another 85 cents will get you your choice of American, Swiss, Monterey pepper jack, or cheddar cheese, and you’re still less than four bucks.

Now let’s say you really want to doctor it up. That’s step four, the premium toppings. For 59 cents extra each, you can have grilled pineapple, Ortega chili, or mushrooms. For 79 cents you can add an onion ring. For 99 cents extra each, you can add turkey bacon, guacamole, a fried egg, or chili. For $1.19, you can have avocado, and for $1.59 you can have pastrami.

What did we order? Carol ordered her Juicy Burger with lettuce, tomato, pickles, sautéed mushrooms, and Swiss cheese, plus heavy mayo. My order had lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, a fried egg, Ortega chili, Swiss cheese, heavy mustard, and chipotle mayo. Delicious! We both loved our burgers.

On another visit I checked off lettuce, onion tomatoes, pickles, avocado, mayo, mustard, and pepper jack. That, too, was splendid.

As were the fresh-cut French fries for $3. These thinly sliced fresh potatoes fried in peanut oil are divine!

And then there are the milkshakes ($2.99). Of course vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry are available, but since Dreyer’s is involved, you can also choose from banana, peanut butter, cookies-n-cream, and mint chocolate

This dog is “doggone good” any way you dress it up.

Don’t forget the onion rings— fried to perfection every time.

dressing, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, chipotle barbecue sauce, chipotle mayonnaise, cilantro mayonnaise, Tabasco ketchup, teriyaki sauce, A1 Steak Sauce, buffalo sauce, or spicy mustard. Get at dollop of each; at Juicy Burger they don’t care. They might give you a strange look, but really, they don’t care.

chip. And they’re all made from hand-scooped ice cream. The mint chocolate chip is spectacularly good!

Juicy Burger has a second location, in the northwest shopping center at Hageman Road and Calloway Drive, where Dewar’s northwest store used to be. It’s more spacious and better reflects the ‘50s atmosphere.

So how do Juicy Burgers compare with Ken-Kens, that bygone EBHS hangout? Carol just smiled. They were both good, she said with a sly smile.

High praise indeed.

For online ordering or more information, visit Juicy Burger online at www.juicyburger.com. n

Cuisine: oldies...but goodies! www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 111

QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR

easy doesn’t mean tame When the weather outside is frightful, there’s nothing

Co-owner Brittney Papion was happy to provide us with this

more delightful than a plate of warm, flavorful food.

simple dish that packs a wallop. The great thing about this recipe

Especially when that plate involves savory Cajun spices! The

is that you can make as much or as little as you need with ease…

creative folks at Pappy’s Down South BBQ rose to the challenge

and the spiciness level is always to taste. So if you’re looking for

when we asked them to make our readers a delicious, unique

something to serve at your next get-together, or just want a

recipe perfect for holiday entertaining.

special dinner for yourself, give this Cajun Shrimp a try.

Pappy’s Down South BBQ

Cajun Shrimp ake!

easy to m

1/2 cup flour • 1 stick butter • 1 cup cream Salt • Pepper • Cajun spices • Hot sauce 8-10 large shrimp (peeled and deveined) Minced garlic • 2 tbsp. butter Juice from a fresh lemon • 1/4 cup Southern Comfort Start by making a roux. Add butter and flour to a mediumsized saucepan on medium-high heat. Whisk butter and flour together until well mixed and add cream. Continue to whisk until sauce is smooth. Then, add salt, pepper, and Cajun spices to taste. Same with the hot sauce. If sauce is too thick, simply add milk to thin it out.

Next, make sure your shrimp are cleaned, peeled, and de-veined.

Dust them with salt, pepper, and Cajun spices. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp with butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Southern Comfort (you can add as much as you like to taste). When thoroughly cooked, toss into your sauce to coat. Top with fresh herbs, serve with crusty garlic bread made from Pyrenees French Bread and a glass of white wine and enjoy! Makes 2 servings. n

Cuisine: comfort cuisine 112 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way

By Yana Todorova

a passion for flavor Dear readers, Welcome to my new column featuring THE Cuisine and Food of Bakersfield. In this feature, I will share with you easy recipes; tips for entertaining; and how to use fresH, healthy, Locally-grown produce.

I am a passionate cook, home baker, and a real foodie. My love for food started when I was growing up in Bulgaria (an Eastern European country, located to the north of Greece and Turkey). My grandmother was a great home cook. She taught me how to knead the dough for all kinds of baked goodies. In my grandparents’ house, I saw how to set up beautiful holiday tables, how to receive guests with elegance, and how to enjoy home-cooked meals on a daily basis.

My grandparents used to make their own white and red wine from their vineyard.

They also made plenty of conserves for the long winter months from all the fruits and vegetables that were available. All of these efforts helped me to appreciate sustainably grown and homemade food.

‘‘For Bulgarians, family meals

are so crucial: all the important discussions occur during breakfast, lunch, or dinner.’’

My mother is also a great cook. She does not follow recipes, but she can always create a new dish from the ingredients she has on hand.

I often spent the days before big holidays preparing our big feast together with my mother.

I also helped her cook our daily meals and the

Cheesecake with fresh strawberry sauce

dinner table was always my favorite place!

Most of my memories are from our gatherings around the table. For Bulgarians, family meals are so crucial: all the important discussions occur during breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

After living in Bulgaria for 17 years, my parents and I moved to Puebla, Mexico. There, while getting my bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, I was also learning about all the foods of Mexico and the great cuisine of Latin America. I tried all kinds of native ingredients and I fell in love with avocados, papayas, pineapples, and other exotic fruits and vegetables.

Then, I moved to Texas to study for my Ph.D. in Computer Science. There, I met and married my wonderful >>

Cuisine: easy and delicious www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 113

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husband and for the first time, I started to cook for our new family. In the beginning, it was a challenge. I had to experiment so many times while making my homemade pizza dough; but I had to make it come out delicious. I learned to bake bread from scratch. I subscribed to cooking magazines and quickly learned how to prepare healthy meals using fresh, organic, and local ingredients. I bought a lot of cooking books and read them in my spare time. We threw so many parties and we invited friends over very often.

Those were not only great times, but also great opportunities to learn how to entertain like a pro.

Basil-Chicken-Grape Pizetta

Nowadays, my husband and I live in Bakersfield. Fortunately, the city is located in one of the breadbaskets of the world, the San Joaquin Valley, where a large array of vegetables, fruits, and nuts are grown. We both teach at California State University, Bakersfield. However, we are also serious about the cuisine and food of Bakersfield. I am constantly incorporating California ingredients into my cooking repertoire. I am fascinated by the locally-grown fruits and vegetables. n these recipes and others can be found on our website! www.bakersfieldmagazine.net/home-a-garden 114 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

LIFE IS A CABERNET

no bones about it

Rob and Paula Campbell-Taylor hadn’t lived long at their ranch that would become Graveyard Vineyards when Paula got a phone call from a neighbor.

By Mike Stepanovich The Campbell-Taylor’s 81-acre ranch,

cases. But I could sense the excitement in

about six miles northeast of Paso Robles as

Rob and Paula, and with good reason: their

the crow flies—eight as the roads go—is

wines were good!

adjacent to the Pleasant Valley Cemetery,

And of course they named their winery

a historic graveyard that has served as

after the adjacent cemetery. Why not? The

the final resting place for folks in the area

name is a punster’s dream: you can have a

since 1865.

lot of fun with it. Make no bones about it,

The neighbor wanted to know: Would

nothing grave about their wines. They oper-

Paula consent to serve on the Pleasant Val-

ate with a skeleton staff. Okay, okay, I’ll stop.

ley Cemetery Board? Eager to fit in as the

But that’s exactly the point. The CampPhoto courtesy of graveyard vineyards

new neighbor, Paula agreed.

Several weeks passed without any notice of a Cemetery Board meeting, and Paula began to be concerned that perhaps the board had not received word that she had agreed to serve. So she called the neighbor and asked her when the board met.

The woman replied, “Honey, you ARE the Cemetery Board.”

Paula still laughs when she tells that story, because she still is the Cemetery Board. It’s not tedious, and she gets no pay.

GRAVEYARD VINEYARDS Paula & Rob Campbell-Taylor

She handles the paperwork for the three or four people buried there each year, fitting it

Soon after purchasing their ranch, Paula was told,

©istockphoto.com/Moncherie

“Honey, you ARE the Cemetery Board.”

into what has become her full-time venture:

bell-Taylors are fun people who are serious

marketing her and Rob’s winery.

about their wine.

Graveyard Vineyards first opened in 2005,

The path to their new venture started in

two years after the Campbell-Taylors pur-

Bakersfield’s oil fields. A native of Bakers-

chased the property. I first visited it about a

field, Rob followed in his father’s footsteps:

month after it opened. The tasting room was

“My parents have been in Bakersfield since

a couple of planks across two upright bar-

the 1950s. Dad was in the oil business.”

rels. The production was only a few hundred

After graduating from West High School >>

wine: outta-this-world vino www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 115

wine: outta-this-world vino and Bakersfield College, Rob transferred to Fresno State University, where he earned an engineering degree. He began working as a petroleum engineer in the San Ardo field north of Paso Robles after graduation. “That’s how I came to love the Paso Robles area,” he said. He returned to Bakersfield where he worked for Tenneco Oil Co. before taking a job offshore in Santa Barbara County with Venoco in 1996.

By then he and Paula were married. Paula had moved to Bakersfield from Los Angeles in the 1980s, and loved Bakersfield. She became involved with the Junior League and Singles Working Against Arthritis (SWAT). She met Rob at a joint party of SWAT and the Avalanche Ski Club, with which Rob was involved.

“We met in 1989 and were married in 1991,” he said.

Paula wasn’t happy about the move to Santa Barbara, but in 2003 they parlayed the property they purchased there into the Paso Robles-area ranch that is now home to their winery.

“Santa Barbara is a great place to visit, but we wanted a rural area for our kids to grow up in,” Rob said.

By then they had become interested in wine, and as luck would have it, their new ranch had a 10-acre vineyard that had been planted seven years

Naming their winery “Graveyard” seemed a logical choice. “We were apprehensive about the name at first, but it’s recognizable, and a good thing, as it turned out.” before by the previous owner. “Being naïve, we thought, this will be easy. If we’d known the effort involved in starting and running a winery, we’d have said no, it’s too chancy.”

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And they’d been warned. “I had been doing some oil work in the Santa Maria area and had become acquainted with Brian Talley of Talley Vineyards (Bakersfield Magazine, February 2012). When we were considering getting into the wine business I consulted with Brian. He said flat out, ‘Don’t do it, many have tried and failed.’

“I guess we just don’t take no for an answer. Sometimes you think you know enough, but you start knocking down what you see as immediate tasks, and you just keep working at it until you do it.”

Initially they thought they’d sell their grapes, but “that first crop in 2004 was hard to sell. We couldn’t give it away. We had no contracts or experience.

We certainly weren’t going to be able to sell our grapes when experienced growers were having a tough time selling theirs.”

That first year forced their hand: if they were going to be in the wine business, they’d have to go all in and open a winery and, in essence, create a customer for their own fruit.

Serendipitously, just as they were coming to grips with how to become full-

www.hillcrest-ac.com

fledged vintners, they met the man who would make that possible. Said Rob: “The best thing that happened to us was hooking up with our winemaker.”

116 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Photo courtesy of graveyard vineyards

Graveyard Vineyards continues to grow as a special venue for gatherings and wine lovers alike.

Jason Bushong was between jobs. “He was being

field and Southern California peddling their wines.

Mr. Mom while his wife was teaching. Our kids

“There’s certainly a limit as to how large you can

were at the school where she was teaching. We

grow without some sort of distribution,” Rob said.

realized that we were at the mercy of everyone…

“We make twenty-five hundred cases a year, and

and that we needed a consultant. Jason has been

we could grow to as much as five thousand [cases]

our winemaker from the start. I think he enjoys

and still maintain our hand-crafted quality. But

growing with us; we’re both growing together.”

beyond that we’d have to have a different business

They next had to figure what they were going

model, and that would be a major change.

to make. The property was planted half and half to

“We have a thousand wine club members, so if

cabernet sauvignon and syrah, so that was easy.

we doubled that, that would take us to that level.

“The previous owner thought cabernet sauvignon

That would be a nice place to be.”

was the best grape for the area,” Rob said. “Caber-

Their new tasting room is a nice place to be,

net is still the most widely grown grape in the area,

as well—open and spacious, and with a friendly

and in my opinion is best suited to where we are.”

crew. Their two cabernets—one is a reserve—are

Zinfandel also does well in Paso Robles, so they

delicious and winning medals in competitions.

planted four acres to zinfandel. They also buy char-

Their syrah is also splendid. Try the Mortal Zin,

donnay and sauvignon blanc for their white wines.

though it’s so popular it’s sold out almost as soon

Naming their winery “Graveyard” seemed a logi-

as it’s released. And their Dark Phantom petite

cal choice. “We were apprehensive about the name at first, but it’s recognizable, and a good thing, as it turned out.”

their website: www.graveyardvineyards.com. n

to restaurants”—he said the Red Pepper in Bakersfield carries their wines—“but we don’t have a distributor. We just do what’s best for us.”

Paula serves as the winery’s distributor and marketer. She drives to different venues in Bakers-

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Good Eats!

take the Estrella Road exit off Highway 46 at the new

they opened, though compared to some of the win-

our wine club,” Rob said. “We have a little direct sales

Working to give you peace of mind and confidence that your loved one will be provided for by one of Kern County’s finest programs, while giving you relief from the extreme dedication of caregiving.

Graveyard Vineyards is at 6990 Estrella Road— bridge and go northwest to the winery. Or check out

much sell our wine in the tasting room and through

You’re not alone.

sirah is exciting.

They’ve come a long way in the seven years since eries in the area they’re still bare bones. “We pretty

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Mike Stepanovich is an award-winning journalist who has been writing his Life is a Cabernet wine column since 1985, and reviewing restaurants for Bakersfield Magazine since 1997. Stepanovich has taught wine and food pairing classes for many years, and teaches a wine appreciation and history class for 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.

We have over 200 recipes from local restaurants, caterers, and party planners on our website for you to enjoy!

BakersfieldMagazine.net

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 117

What Can We Say? We’re Givers...

We As

give a lot of cool stuff away here at Bakersfield Magazine — Event Tickets, Restaurant Certificates, Gift Certificates to Great Local Merchants...but we’ve saved the best for now...

a thank you to our readers for their continued support these past 29 years, we’d like to give a little something back. Now through December 31st, we are offering a free one-year subscription just for the asking.

We’ll even allow you to share the love and pass on a gift subscription (also at no charge) to someone that you think would enjoy receiving Bakersfield Magazine. If you are already a subscriber, don’t worry, we will extend your current subscription for another year.

Just

email us your name, address, zip code, and phone number to: Subscriptions@bakersfieldmagazine.net.

For gift subscriptions, include their contact information and mailing address as well ­— and if you include their email address, we will send them a special announcement notifying them of your thoughtfulness.

Offer open to residents of Kern County only, 21 years old or older. Valid through December 31, 2012. First issue will arrive the first week of February, 2013. Subscribers will be automatically added to our A-list to be eligible for certain contests, events and promos.

If you would prefer not to become an A-List member, please note in your subscription request “Opt out of A-List”.

118 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

bottoms up!

Covenant Coffee Year Established: 2010 (coffee shop in 2012) Quick Facts Address:1700 Chester Avenue

our daily grind It’s hard not to enjoy a delicious, speciality latte, but when you know that your purchase will go to a great cause, it somehow tastes even better.

As a part of Covenant Community Services, a local nonprofit that helps to mentor and serve youths who were formerly in foster care, Covenant Coffee means it when they say that their coffee is “Roasted for a Purpose.”

Master Roaster Isaac Dennis came to Bakersfield with the intention to be the city’s first commercial roaster, and he also wanted to fulfill a mission, at the same time. Through Covenant Community Services, he

did just that. “All of our employees are former foster youth,” Dennis said.

“Two pounds of coffee sold will pay for an hour of an employee’s wages.”

Covenant Coffee

AlmondJoyLatte 12 oz. (or double shot) Espresso 9-10 oz. Frothed Milk 1 pump Dark Chocolate Sauce 1 pump Coconut Syrup 1/4 pump Almond Syrup Pour dark chocolate sauce, coconut syrup, and almond syrup into a large coffee mug. Pour the espresso over the sauce and syrups. Froth milk either by hand or with a milk frother.

Pour frothed milk into the mug.

The atmosphere at Covenant Coffee reflects this warm and inviting attitude. They have a roasting station where people can purchase their beans which they roast on-site—and they will even give you a dollar off of the next pound if you reuse the bag they give you. There are shirts, mugs, and different brewing equipment for purchase. A bookshelf by the entrance holds several books and board games for patrons to enjoy.

This lovely spot also features breakfast, panini sandwiches and salads for lunch, occasional live music, and free monthly Cuppings (meetings where they discuss certain aspects of coffee). But what truly puts them in a league of their own is their incredible, original latte creations. They were able to share one such recipe with us, in particular, and if their overall cause doesn’t grab you, this sweet, frothy drink with a chocolate flavor and undertones of almond and coconut certainly will. Be sure to take a good look before you start sipping this delightful drink: they always have a latte artist on staff, so you never know what you might see in your cup! n

drink: like heaven in a cup www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 119

120 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Luigi’s Restaurant & Italian Delicatessen

Enjoy an old world Italian delicatessen since 1910 with over 200 wines to complement your lunch. From sandwiches to Pasta Bolognese, you’re sure to find flavorful choices to make everyone happy! Don’t forget to shop the gourmet delicatessen for unique gift ideas, wine and authentic foods. Restaurant Hours: Tue-Sat 11am-2:30pm, Deli Hours: Tue-Sat 8am-4pm. 725 East 19th Street. shopluigis.com (661) 322-0926

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 TriTip 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, hummos, 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

Chalet Basque

A restaurant of distinction. Served family-style, dinners include French bread & butter, soup, pink beans, hot sauce, hors d’oeuvres, vegetables, and french fries, and a variety of entrée choices. For 45 years, locals and visitors alike have savored favorites such as garlic fried chicken, lamb, and hand-cut steaks including filet mignon topped with blackberries and brandy. Chalet Basque offers tasty lunch specials from 11am-3pm and happy hour specials on beer and cocktails all day. The banquet room accommodates 15-150 people, $8.95 per person. Perfect for wedding parties, anniversaries, and retirement dinners. If you’re looking for a spacious banquet room with delectable dining options, they will match any competitor’s price.

Open every day from 11am-9:30pm. 200 Oak Street. (661) 327-2915

Casa Muñoz Mexican Food

In 1952, the Muñoz family started a legacy in Hispanic style family restaurants in Bakersfield, starting with Sinaloa and culminating in 1990 with the opening of Casa Muñoz. Our first priorities are cleanliness and great service with good food always being the tradition in our family. Whether you order a Margarita, or the Suizas, you can be assured that Casa Muñoz will bring 100% authentic quality to your table. Be sure to try our lunch specials. Enjoy! Happy Hour: 4-7pm $2.50 Margaritas. Open daily 10:30am-9pm. Located at 1736 Union Ave. (661) 861-1625

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 121

The Dining Guide

Izumo Japanese Restaurant & Sushi

Variety and style is what you can expect at Izumo. Experience our casual atmosphere where you have your choice of dining experiences. Visit us to enjoy the teppan-yaki, sample the sushi bar, or our more conventional order-off-the-menu setting. The teppan-yaki comes one dish at a time as the chef prepares it in front of you - they will amaze and impress with their skill and expertise. Our relaxed dining gives customers a chance to really enjoy our food and friendly service. Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Sun 5-10pm. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE. 4412 Ming Ave. (661) 398-0608

Belvedere Room in the Padre Hotel

Executive Chef Brad Wise offers a distinctive dining experience that marries oldworld style with modern tastes. From ranch raised beef to seafood delicacies, each dish is thoughtfully prepared for your culinary delight. Explore our innovative wine list, or allow us to find you the perfect pairing. Open for dinner nightly with a live pianist on Friday and Saturday nights. 1702 18th Street. www.thepadrehotel.com (661) 427-4900

Photo By Miguel Angel Gonzalez

Camino Real Restaurant & Bar

The Dining Guide

In a town full of Mexican restaurants, take a break and try food that’s Mexican inspired with California love. Check us out at Instagram@caminoed and Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CAMINOED. Open daily from 10am to 10pm.

3500 Truxtun Avenue. caminoed.com (661) 852-0493

Steak & Grape Restaurant

STEAK & GRAPE RESTAURANT / BAR / CATERING delights the senses as a family friendly, California steakhouse featuring classic steakhouse entrées combined with tantalizing favorite local dishes. Steak & Grape delivers “The Best Steak” in town, complemented by wines for every budget. 50% off! Join our email list on Facebook or website and buy one entrée and receive the second one of equal or lesser value at half price, some restrictions apply. Bar: 10am daily to close. Dining: 11am daily to close. 4420 Coffee Rd. Call for reservations. www.steakandgrape.com (661) 588-9463

Voted Best Breakfast in Bakersfield 24th Street Café

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 and fried green tomatoes, 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 Portobello mushroom omelets, cinnamon apple pancakes, and so much more.

But don’t leave without trying our Bloody Mary. It’s good for what ails ‘ya! Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, 6am-2:30pm. 1415 24th Street.

(661) 323-8801

Brookside Riverlakes Market & Deli

We welcome you to come enjoy our signature salads, sandwiches, and burgers at your local Brookside Market & Deli. Stop by and try our homemade Fish & Chips with our savory clam chowder every Friday. We also BBQ our own Tri-Tip sandwiches daily! Brookside carries a wide variety of fine wines & market products you may need, including Smith’s Bakery goodies to satisfy your sweet tooth! In addition to our Brookside breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, we also offer a catering menu that will help you celebrate any occasion with ease. Deli hours: Mon-Sat 5am-8pm, Sun 6:30am-4pm. 4700 Coffee Rd. Store: (661) 588-1338, Deli: (661) 588-2329

Frugatti’s Italian Wood-Fired Oven

Real Italian by Real Italians! Whether dining in or al fresco on our 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

122 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Café Med

Café Med has been a Bakersfield tradition for over 20 years. Their diverse menu includes Mediterranean and American cuisine, as well as an extensive wine list, now on iPads! Monthly Wine Tastings are held the last Friday of the month from 5:30-8pm. The $25 cover includes featured wines and sumptuous appetizers. Enjoy live music on both Friday and Saturday evening. Café Med is open 11am to close 7 days a week. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE, DC. Located at 4809 Stockdale Hwy., in the Stockdale Fashion Plaza. Like us on Facebook, or go to Cafemedrestaurant.com, (661) 834-4433

Lorene’s Ranch House Coffee Shop

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-9pm 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

Narducci’s Cafe

A fixture in historic Old Town Kern since 1894, Narducci’s Cafe has some of the best food and drinks in town. Come in on Thursdays and try one of our hand-cut steaks on $10 Steak Night. Take in the friendly atmosphere while enjoying a Basque family-style dinner. Plan your next large party here for a memorable family gathering. Have a Bloody Mary or a Mimosa with breakfast, or try a Moscow Mule in the traditional copper cup. For dinner, the lamb chops and pickled tongue are a local favorite. On a weekend night, you might catch Jimmy Narducci on his sax.

Breakfast and lunch served 9am-2:30pm Mon-Sat, dinner served Mon-Tues 5:30pm-9pm, Thu-Sat 5:30pm-10pm. Food served all day on Sun 9am-8pm.

Bar open all day. 622 East 21st Street. (661) 324-2961

Sinaloa Mexican Restaurant

Serving traditional Mexican cuisine to Bakersfield residents since 1948. Perfectly situated downtown, just west of Mill Creek Park. Open Tue-Thu 11:15am-8pm, Fri-Sat 11:15am-9pm, and Sunday 11:15am-8pm. Closed on Mondays. Sinaloa is located at 910 20th Street. (661) 327-5231

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 123

The Dining Guide

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

Gimmee Some Sugar

Gimmee Some Sugar Cakes was created with a motto that food should be experienced, not just tasted. We proudly stand by the ground rule that all of our products are made with only the best ingredients, like real Madagascar Vanilla Beans, whole sweet cream butter, and fine Callebaut European Chocolate. Our team was built with the love for art, food, and people! With our unique passion, we create the most beautiful wedding and 3D cakes, gourmet sweet tables, and tasty cupcakes in the Central Valley. There is nothing we cannot make and want to continue to be Bakersfield’s local source for the up and coming cake and cupcake trends.

Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-3pm, Sat 10am-12pm (pick up orders only). Closed Sun-Mon. 2100 19th Street Ste D. www.gimmeesomesugar.com (661) 321-9922

Anita’s Mexican Grill

The Dining Guide

We would like to welcome you to our newly renovated restaurant and invite you to try our new menu, offering many classic recipes that we have been cooking up since 1988 as well as new veggie and lite options. Visit our lunch buffet during the week and Sunday brunch to sample authentic homestyle recipes made from scratch with fresh and high quality ingredients. Thank you Bakersfield for your continued patronage! Don’t forget to make your Holiday Reservations...Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/anitasmexgrill. Our bar has been extended, come and enjoy Happy Hour M-F 3-6pm. Join us Friday nights 10pm-2am for Latin music. 4240 California Ave. (661) 328-0500

Noriega Hotel

Since 1893, Noriega Hotel has been bringing some of the best in Basque to Bakersfield. Awarded the James Beard Award in the American Classics category in 2011, this family tradition serves exceptional meals to not only the Basque community, but to the public, as well. Open Tues-Sun. Breakfast is served 7-9am for $10; Lunch is served family style at 12pm for $15 with children $1 per year of age, up to 8 years; dinner, family style at 7pm for $20 with children $1 per year of age, up to 12 years. Reservations are recommended. 525 Sumner Street. www.noriegahotel.com (661) 322-8419

The Aviator Casino Bar & Grill

The Aviator Casino – Where fun takes flight! Now offering Catering Services brought to you for your events or at The Aviator Casino! Open seven days a week, from 7am-2am with Happy Hour All Day! Right off Freeway 99, exit 54. 1225 Airport Drive, Delano, Ca. 21+ only. Visit our website for monthly specials. www.theaviatorcasino.com (661) 721-7770

΄t Bon Appeti Bakersfield Magazine Dining Guide

Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar

834-4126

French Cuisine Fused With California Freshness Seafood, Poultry, Beef, Exotic Game, Vegetarian. A welcoming environment in the tradition of a neighborhood bistro. Extensive Wine List and Craft Beer Selection. Coffee Program Featuring Siphon Brewers and Sustainable Sourced Beans. We believe in preparing food from scratch with the freshest ingredients available. We source locally and organically as often as possible. Enjoy the bounty of Kern County’s Agriculture!

Open for Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30am-2pm. Open for Dinner: Mon 5-8pm & Tue-Sat 5-9pm. All major credit cards are accepted. Reservations recommended but not required. 3310 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 160, 93301 www.valentienrestaurant.com (661) 864-0397

124 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

High Fashion at Affordable Prices

Saigon Restaurant

We invite you to try the best place in town for fresh and traditional Vietnamese cuisine! Since 1998, we have served the absolute healthiest dining options to the people of Bakersfield. From unique appetizers, soups, salads, and vermicelli dishes to Boba drinks and Vietnamese beer, we have everything you crave for a true culinary experience. Our pho, noodle soups, vegetarian dishes, and a la carte items featuring seafood, pork, beef, and chicken will satisfy your craving for traditional Vietnamese food. Lunch Specials from 11am-3pm. Individual Dinner Specials after 4pm. Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-9pm. Closed Sunday. 3113 Chester Ln. www.saigonbakersfield.com (661) 327-8810

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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 every day, 11am-2pm. Fabulous Sunday Brunch, 10am-3pm, reservations accepted. 1100 Calloway Drive. (661) 829-2737

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Benji’s French Basque

Benji’s offers something a little different from Bakersfield’s Basque fare. In addition to traditional Basque entrées of lamb, chicken, veal and beef, Benji’s has pan-fried frog legs with garlic lemon sauce, lobster tail, roasted duck, escargots and calf liver.

And the beef isn’t just tri-tip; Benji’s serves a scrumptious filet mignon and New York steak with pepper cognac sauce. All dinners are served with the customary Basque family style set-up. Don’t forget Benji’s specialty soufflés flavored with Grand Marnier, raspberry, chocolate or lemon. Basque family owned and operated for 25 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

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126 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

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128 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

When you’d like to buy or sell Real Estate, contact your local expert...

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Caretaker Dennis Paschilk makes sure all the dogs get the attention they need.

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Two people, 100 dogs, and 20 acres of rolling hillside. It might not sound like much to wag your tail about, but at Alpha Canine Sanctuary, it’s a way of lifE. And life for everyone involved, from the dogs to the caretakers, is very good at this “no kill haven” for homeless canines.

What began as just another listing in a Realtor’s long line of available properties soon turned into the makings of a lifelong devotion for Founder and Director Marilyn Stewart. “Back in the early nineties, I was learning a lot about the Bakersfield community as part of my job as a Realtor,” said Stewart. “During this time, I had discovered that countless dogs and cats were killed every year due to lack of space in shelters. I also had a client list twenty acres of land in northern Bakersfield—a plot he called ‘Junk Land.’ It sat on my listing for years before I finally decided to purchase it, myself, and use it as a sanctuary for homeless dogs. This place would be their home for life, if need be.” Thus, in September of 1995, Alpha Canine Sanctuary was born.

To say that the operation started out small may be a bit of an understatement, with Stewart being the only staff tending to only two runs and four dogs. “Don’t be afraid to start small,” encouraged Stewart. “I had no gov-

ernment funding, and still don’t. Everything that has ever been done here is based upon what the community provides.” And the community has been responsive, to say that least. Not only in terms of donating supplies and money to keep the nonprofit going, but also in terms of bringing in dogs who were in desperate need of a home. The Sanctuary currently has 50 runs and is maxed out at their 100 dog limit.

“The community realized that we have a serious problem with stray animals,” said Dennis Paschilk, caretaker and the other half of the duo running the show. He has been with the nonprofit for a year and plans on staying on board until he retires. “We all know that we need to do something about the situation or it won’t get any better.”

In addition to caring for some of Kern County’s most helpless citizens, Alpha Canine Sanctuary also hosts spay/neuter clinics several times a year to low income citizens who have dogs that they can’t afford to alter on their own. These clinics include microchipping and all necessary shots—a service that they provide to every single dog that lives on the premises, as well.

Fittingly, the pooches at Alpha are all very happy, considering that Stewart and Paschilk insist on giving each and every dog attention and love on a daily basis. As Paschilk described,

alpha canine sanctuary “We do everything we can to keep them happy, and they truly are happy.

Some have been hurt or abandoned, so we work very hard at making them feel loved.” Stewart elaborated, “It is a joy being here. No one else is going to love us like these guys do.” “Especially when I have a pocket full of biscuits,” Paschilk added, laughing.

“They pick my pockets!”

Speaking of biscuits, the Sanctuary is always on the lookout for donations from the community, as that is their main source of receiving any.

Monetary donations help with the cost of their community spay/neuter clinics—which they would love to expand in the future—and the overall cost of operations. (They’re hoping to double their capacity, in time, too.) But there are endless ways to help this safe place for needy canines.

Treats, toys, food, blankets, water and food dishes, lumber, nails, chain-link fencing, kennels, and countless other items could all help out this organization tremendously. “Even things that you think might be useless could be used here,” Paschilk assured.

Volunteers who can spend time with the dogs are also needed, but to be certain of what is needed the most, give them a call and ask. You can find more ways to make a difference in a dog’s life at their website, www.alphacanine.org n

Alpha Canine Sanctuary Founder and Director Marilyn Stewart. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 131

community community partners partners

FurryFriends

SPOTLIGHT

Enjoy A Holiday Adventure... community partners

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Join

at the 7th Annual

Magical Forest ...Make it a

Family Tradition Presented by National Certified Insurance Santa’s Secret Shoppe • Forest of Sights & Sounds Santa at the North Pole • Food • Grinch Mobile and Train Rides • Photos Live Entertainment • Holiday Shopping

December 7th-23rd (closed 10th & 11th) Mon-Fri: 6-9pm • Sat-Sun: 5-9pm Admission: Adults $5.00 • Seniors $4.00 Children 6-12 $3.00 • Children 5 & under FREE Visit www.barc-inc.org for a discount coupon

2240 S. Union Avenue

One Block North of White Lane All proceeds stay in Kern County and benefit BARC and other nonprofit agencies serving local families.

Media Sponsor 132 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Every soon-to-be-parent wishes for a healthy baby. Unfortunately, that’s a wish that can’t always come true.

Birth defects, prematurity, and medical complications result in a number of babies being born unhealthy. Many of these babies spend the first weeks or months of their lives in neonatal intensive care units, creating an additional burden on the family.

And while some premature births are the result of maternal substance use or lack of health care, presently, there is no known cause for spontaneous premature birth in an otherwise healthy mother and baby.

“This problem is not something a vaccine is going to solve,” said Vicki Lombardo, Associate State Director of Program Services for the March of Dimes in California.

Lombardo explained that, while the accomplishments of the March of Dimes over the last 60 years have been many, the need for research into the effects of preterm birth is still high. It’s a local problem that can and does have a local solution.

“Unfortunately, Kern County has the highest pre-term birth rate in California,” Lombardo continued. But the good news is that people are starting to take notice and the hospitals in our area have adopted some of the new practices that March of Dimes’ research has

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shown helps reduce the long-term effects of premature birth.

“All four hospitals in Bakersfield [KMC, San Joaquin Community Hospital, Memorial Hospital, and Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield] have adopted the 39-plus weeks rule,” Lombardo said. This means that if a woman wants to have her baby before she is 39-weeks pregnant, the hospital can and will refuse. “It’s harder to enforce this with private practice and private-paying patients, but any exposure to the campaign is helpful.”

Because preterm birth is such an important issue in Kern County, the March of Dimes is hosting a forum in February of next year that will include local physicians and healthcare providers discussing how our county can resolve this health crisis that causes a lot of heartache for families. A majority of the time at the forum will be spent on reversing thinking since, for many years, obstetrics books have listed 37 weeks as a safe time to deliver. But the American Academy of Pediatrics has since updated their recommendations to include research involving fetal brain development between the 37-week mark and the 39-week mark. Inducing childbirth before 39 weeks gestation puts a baby at increased risk for developing health problems, including vision, hearing, or cognitive disorders as they get older.

Continued on page 135 >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 133

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Wishes&Wonders

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Be Sure To Mark Your Calendars Today!

24th Annual Women’s Business Conference Thursday, April 18, 2013!

Purchase Gift Certificates now for Christmas For more information, visit the official conference website at:

www.BakersfieldWomen.org

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That’s because brain development is at its most crucial stages toward the end of a pregnancy, when the baby is preparing to live outside the womb. The difference in size between a fetal brain at 36 weeks and 39 weeks is drastic.

“If spontaneous labor occurs [between that time period], then the mother’s body and the baby are signaling that it’s time for delivery. But scheduling to be induced early without medical cause is not the same thing,” Lombardo said.

A study in New York tested thousands upon thousands of third graders for cognitive skills and information retention and discovered that children born before the 39th week of pregnancy

were more likely to have these types of learning disabilities. In fact, the study showed that each day early the child was born corresponded to increased difficulty in comprehension. That’s days, not weeks. Granted, these aren’t massive mental disabilities, “but it shows us that preterm birth has a huge effect on not only the medical system, but the education system, as well,” Lombardo added, discussing the cost of special needs teachers in addition to the cost of spending so much of the school year reteaching topics.

The types of research done by the March of Dimes continues to impact the way we, as a country and a county, have Continued on pg. 137 >>

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Wishes&Wonders

continued from pg. 135

photo courtesy March of Dimes

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babies. This is why it’s still very important to support the March of Dimes’ mission to make sure that all babies are born healthy.

One way to do that is by getting involved in their annual local events, including the Signature Chefs Auction (which took place in October this year) and the March for Babies, a walk that occurs in the spring.

“The 2013 March for Babies will be held at Liberty Park on Saturday, April 13,” said Nicole Howard, the local

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March of Dimes’ event coordinator and fundraiser. “Doug Hayward, CEO of Kern Health Systems is our chairperson and we’re expecting over four hundred teams to participate again this year.” It really is a wonderful event full of fun for the entire family. Snacks, games, a team t-shirt contest, and dancing keep walkers full and entertained all morning long. At the same time, everyone is there to celebrate the same cause and families keep their premature loved ones in their thoughts at all times, which makes for a meaningful event.

“As with every event, every dollar raised at the March for Babies will go directly to our mission to prevent birth defects, infant mortality, and premature birth,” Howard continued. “Specifically, funds and research will benefit Bakersfield hospitals as we work with them to help lower the prematurity rate in the county.”

If you’d like more information on the forum in February or if you’d like to lace up your sneakers for babies in the spring, contact Nicole Howard at (661) 369-1181 to find out how you can save some tiny, but very important, lives in Kern County. n

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The Jewelers

b Celebrating 29 Years a

Robson & Eilers New Name—Same Owners!

Grand Opening December 1st

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Now offering Infinity Sun $ Custom Airbrush Spray Tans for

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We Buy Gold

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Ladies Apparel • Shoes • Accessories

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5512 Stockdale Hwy. 325-8300

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Gift Certificates Available

Open Monday-Thursday 8:30-5:30, Friday 8:30-1:00

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10111 Rosedale Hwy. #120 • 589-9496 www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 139

everafters...

• Beautiful Engagement Rings • Fast Jewelry Repair We Buy • One-of-a-kind Gold Custom Design • Same Day Family Owned Appraisals Since 1978 661-587-9298

9160 Rosedale Highway, Suite 600

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Jessica Frey Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Nuckolls (Katelyn Penner) May 25th, 2012K Private Residence

Lacey’s Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Ken Payne (Paige Kangas) September 22nd, 2012K Private Residence

Your Affair to Remember!

Elegant Architecture Surrounded by Lush Gardens

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Artisan Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Holloway (Nicole Penney) September 29th, 2012K Bakersfield Country Club

• Bridal party concierge service • Professional bridal & special occasion make-up ake time • Bridal skin care to relax before • Spray tan your big day!

• Massage • Natural nail pedi/ manicure & more...

Desi Vega Photography

Mr. & Mrs. John Thompson (Olivia Guggemos) November 3rd, 2012 K Canyon Hills Church ”Summit”

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1030 Truxtun Ave. • 431-3173

Misty Dameron Photography

Abby’s Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Jacob Morse (Nika Sill)

Mr. & Mrs. David Cooper (Lindsey Bassler)

October 20th, 2012K St. Francis Catholic Church

May 12th, 2012 K Kern County Museum

E-mail your wedding photography and information to:

140 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Misty Dameron Photography

ZTK Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Tim Callahan (Erika Powers)

Mr. & Mrs. Corey Tindall (Hannah Whyte)

September 22nd, 2012 K The Bell Tower Club

August 11th, 2012 K The Oaks Community Church

Find me at StyleSeat.com & Facebook

Artisan Photography

xpressionsbymichelle.com

Mr. & Mrs. Eddie Diaz (Joanne Yoon)

Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Rodriguez (Heidi Hessler)

June 2nd, 2012 K Seoul, Korea

October 28th, 2012 K Noriega House

Jessica Frey Photography

Carrie McNamee Stylist & Makeup Artist

9600 Retail Drive, #105 • Bakersfield cell:661-817-5595

• salon:661-588-8626

Abby’s Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Matt Legro (Amanda Haney)

Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Amenta (Maria Getty)

May 12th, 2012 K Seven Oaks Country Club

April 21st, 2012 K New Life Center

weddings@bakersfieldmagazine.net

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 141

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SPORTS SPIRITS Daily Drink Specials Big Screen Sports Live Music Karaoke Pool • Darts

398-7077 6633 Ming Ave. BAKERSFIELD RUBBER STAMP over 60 years local service

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Robbin & Chelsey Camp

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Devin Bivens & Glenda Harris

AHA Heart Walk

Locals tied up their walking shoes and went out to CSUB to support the American Heart Association’s Bakersfield Heart Walk. Attendees warmed up to music and exercises varying from Zumba to belly dancing. Vendors were present, providing information about heart disease and the effects it has on those that it touches, as well as heart-healthy snacks.

Adriana Romero & Eduardo Perez

Patty Lucke, Leslie & Diane Duran, & Jennifer Beard

Irma Boyar, & Max Lemus

24 Hour Service (most orders) Stamps Manufactured on Premises

Self Inking Stamps • Daters • Address Stamps Custom Artwork Stamps • State Certified Notary Stamps Business Cards • Copies • Embossers Corporate Seals • Engineer Seals • Signatures Stencils & Supplies • Labels • Engraved Signs

“Sensitive Pricing, Compassionate Service”

Funeral Homes • CemetEries Cremations Northeast

Theresa Klass, Hanna Vidaurreta, & Vanessa Klass

Maria & Flornesto Lopez, & Sandra Valdez

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Sierra Podd & Rochelle Hubert

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Josh Zeledon, Cody Lundborg, & Mayci Banducci

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Kate Gill

John & Kimberly Spires

Boots & Bachelor Auction For The

Pampered Pooch

In Your Life!

Heather Pennella & Ali Bakoo

Bakersfield’s most eligible bachelor’s put on quite a performance at the 11th Annual Boots & Bachelor Auction. Onlookers were treated to a delicious dinner while the men put on their best show in the name of charity. The highest bidders won a date with the bachelor and a wonderful gift package. All proceeds benefit the Bakersfield Homeless Center.

• Carriers • Dog Training • Collars • Clothing • Grooming • Food • Doggy Day Care

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142 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Cindy Lyday & Shannon Ehly

Julia Escalante & Stacy Barnett

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Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

REDUCE LOSSES

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• On-site Self Pay patient collections • Assist/manage/clear-up Backlogs • Free Consultation Michelle Ramos & Eva Ramirez

Mary & Don Unruh

Michael George & Whitney Trevion

ArtFest

This year’s Artfest, a wonderful annual art auction and wine tasting put on by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County, was a big hit. Guests enjoyed delicious foods, fine wines from Central Coast wineries, a unique merchant’s auction, and bid on beautiful artwork done by local children in the “Kidz Art Program.” Proceeds fund art materials and classes for the following year.

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Don & Kathy Miller

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Rick Brauer & Russell Fuller

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Bounty of Kern Dinner

Pamela & Grant Walker

Cheryl Snider & Lorinne Pettit

The Kern County Farm Bureau presented its second annual Bounty of Kern dinner in celebration of our county’s agricultural successes. Those who attended enjoyed fresh, local food; delicious cocktails; and exciting derby races. Proceeds from the event go toward the Kern County Farm Bureau’s efforts in promoting, protecting, and strengthening Kern County’s agricultural interests.

Jen Hansen & Brian Dean

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~Kern’s Basque Tradition since 1945~ NEVER FROZEN, THEN BAKED, OR TRUCKED LONG DISTANCES. FIND US IN YOUR FAVORITE GROCERY STORE OR DELI TODAY!

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Teresa Blevins, Frenchy Valenzuela, Erma Villanueva & Sharon Mills

Dr. Salmassi

Dr. Viral Mehta

Physician Appreciation Dinner 717 East 21st St. 322-7159 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Comprehensive Cardiovascular Medical Group put on a special dinner to show appreciation for the group’s dedicated and talented physicians. This private dinner was held at the beautiful home of Dr. Supratim and Shilip Banerjee. Guests in attendance enjoyed a fabulous cocktail hour full of mingling and the circulation of delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks. The sumptuous dinner that followed had everyone raving.

Shilip & Dr. Supratim Banerjee

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Sandra Pugg & Karen Teleya

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Rachel Fiertag & Ernest Guadiana

Dr. Moussa, Mahla Tamer, Jenny & Sarg Purewal

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Lorena Quintero & Maria Pereida

Jeff Gurican, Christine & Patrick Lujan

Linda & James McClard

Dennis Kurtz

Hannah Hall

The Oil Baron’s Ball

Robert & Jessica Stibor

Jeremy & Misty Smith

Those who attended the Oil Baron’s Ball donned their most fun and creative masks to fit the masquerade theme for this year’s big bash.

Drinks, food, and dancing were all a part of this exciting event. This year marked the 28th ball of this kind—a social gathering that grows more interesting and entertaining every time it takes place.

Michelle Shears & David Delatorre

144 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

Matt & Shana Smith

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Vince Palm & Damon Culbertson

Steve McEvoy, Kara Reddick & Teresa Ford

Melania Bell

Sangera Anniversary

Sangera Automotive Group hosted a rousing bash for the organization’s 40th Anniversary. The celebration took place at the Crystal Palace, where the over 400 guests arrived to commemorate Sangera’s four decades of business in the community.

Delectable hors d’oeuvres and sweet cocktails were on the menu while live music by none other than the incomparable Eddie Money kept everyone dancing.

Jesse Ochoa & Leo Gets

Shirley Sanchez & Jennifer Brucker

OPEN TUE-SAT

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Lillie & Rick Davis

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661-325-5981 2000 18th Street • Bakersfield www.hpsears.com Jeanne & Ken Tate

Nicole & Doug Rossi

Anna & Jimmy McMurtrey T H E F U T U R E O F S TA F F I N G A Randstad Company

We Specialize in Recruitment & Placement of Employees in Clerical and Industrial Businesses.

Steve & Colleen Falke

Seneca Moore & Maryann Kopp

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Administrative • Forklift Material Handlers • Packaging

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www.PlacementPros.com Cyndi Thompson & Yvonne Chambers

Adriana Garcia & Jessica Neeley

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Signature Chefs Auction

Cindy White & Dennis Martinelli

The Bakersfield Marriott was the place to be on this festive night. With amazing and unique appetizers created by local chefs, a long list of delicious wines, and sumptuous desserts, it was culinary heaven. And the live and silent auctions had everyone excited. Funds raised support the vital work of the March of Dimes.

Kern Chapter The American Red Cross strives to provide people with the skills and confidence to act in an emergency at home, in school, and in the workplace.

For more information visit us online:

Becky Davenport, Sheilah Woods, & Beverly Dolberg

Robert & Gertrude Woodward, & Deb Murr

KernRedCross.org

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Health 2012 145

bakersfield’s sound

Photo courtesy of Chris Brewer

first national Bank of Bakersfield c.1920

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We Need More Old Photos!

Have an old photo with back story from Bakersfield’s past?

We want your suggestions for future Bakersfield’s Sounds.

Submit any ideas to editorial@ bakersfieldmagazine.net. If we use your submission, we’ll give you a $50 gift card to a fabulous local restaurant.

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or well over a century, Kern County has been known as a black goldmine. In our earliest days of drilling, oil made more than just a few people rich—it made our entire community rich in a myriad of ways. Some of those ways have endured far beyond any monetary gain that may have been had during one of our county’s famous oil booms.

The Producers Bank building was constructed by San Francisco architect Henry A. Shulze, and was considered a highly modern building, according to an announcement in the Daily Californian. The four-story structure, made of brick and stone, boasted features like an electric elevator and a false roof (meant to keep heat away from the fourth floor).

Both the Producers Bank and the First National Bank of Bakersfield were located on the first floor. While the banks and the structure had a lot of things in common (namely, that both banks had high profile directors, like W.S. Tevis, C.N. Beale, and H.A. Castro), what could be considered their strongest tie was the building and at least one of the banks would not have been possible without the strengthened economy that the oil boom of 1899—and oil discoveries before and afterward—provided.

In The History of Kern County, Ca, W.M. Morgan details how the Kern River oil field played a major role in bringing in workers and revenue from, at first, all over California, then from all over the world. Regardless of how many “spectacular gushers” were seen at surrounding oil fields, they all paled in comparison to the sheer amount of oil being produced at the Kern River oil field—which, in 1910, supplied 13.7 million barrels of oil, though a large part of the territory was still untouched.

This was wonderful news for the valley, especially since there was a financial depression from 1893-4. Oil wasn’t the only thing flowing—new jobs and subsequent revenue were, as well! Financial institutions were springing up in our county alongside the liquid gold, providing a secure place for people to put their newly-had riches.

The First National Bank of Bakersfield was no different. Its modern magnificence welcomed a whole slew of customers and made a handsome addition to the area. It stands at the same spot (1704 19th Street), to this day, reminding us all of the lasting successes of our bountiful valley.

the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen.

146 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented By: Dignity Health Mercy & Memorial Hospitals

George M. Wahba, M.D. Harvard-Trained Spine Surgeon Specialized in Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar Spine Surgery Spinal Stenosis, Disc Herniations, Sciatica/Leg Pain/Arm Pain, Spinal Deformity/Scoliosis, Spinal Trauma, Spinal Tumors, Revision Surgeries

Dr. Wahba is locally-based in Bakersfield, and he is excited to be providing world-class care to Kern County and surrounding communities.

Complete Curriculum Vitae

Dr. Wahba obtained his undergraduate degree at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated Summa Cum Laude with College Honors. He earned his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, which is consistently ranked as one of the top medical schools in the country.

Dr. Wahba graduated from UCSF at the top of his class, as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors

Mercy Orthopedic, Spine, & Hand Center

Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield – Southwest Campus 400 Old River Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93311

(661) 663-6550

www.BakersfieldSpine.com

Society. He completed a 5-year residency in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI).

At that point, Dr. Wahba decided to expand his expertise by completing a prestigious fellowship in Spine Surgery from Harvard Medical School. During that time, he trained at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston, two of the most renowned medical centers in the world.

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