6th Annual Ladies in Red
Exclusive! 2010 Desert Thunder Women Think What? Women & Business Railways to Rockets It’s Girl Talk Time!
VOL. 26 NO. 6
YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.
winter 2010
$
3.50
At age 4 months, a 3D echocardiogram revealed that Katelyn Bomar’s heart was beating so hard it was tearing the bottom of her heart, unable to get any blood to the pulmonary artery... Today, you would never know all that she has been through. She enjoys dancing, singing, and playing with her twin sister, Teri, and looks forward to a long, healthy life. That’s why Katelyn was chosen as one of this year’s Special Ladies in Red! Katelyn and Teri Bomar, Ladies in Red (page 45)
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v
WINTER 2010
We
Lunch Hour!
Contents
f e at u r e s
W
We found the ‘must-haves’ of this season
Women & Business
Stuff We Like...........................21 How Kern County entered the Space Race
Railways to Rockets..........31
6th Annual Ladies in Red
Never underestimate the power of a woman
Women’s business Conference
55
The guardians of the written word tell all
The Secret Life of Librarians........58 Get inside their minds...we double dare you
Girl Talk....................................61
Come Experience the New Lunch Menu at:
Take to the skies with these aviatrices
High Flyin’ SW 99s.............67 Moms who make their mark with dot coms
Women on the Web................69
Selections 14 Delicious for under $10 They’ve made philanthropy a part of the job
Who made it into our 6th annual feature?
661.565.9319
801 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA
bakersfieldmarriott.com
LADIES IN RED
37 45
Encouraging stories from local survivors
SPECIAL LADIES in red
Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
WOMeN WHO GIVE BACK
73
Let’s trade poor grades for paintbrushes
The Art of Learning.............117 “Active” young men with a heart for charity
Nonprofit Spotlight............121
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v
WINTER 2010
Contents
D E P ART M E N TS A family history lesson from ol’ Grandma
Can laughter really cure what ails ya?
Letter from the Editor..........13
Looking Good, Feelin’ Good.....93 Find out how Swede it is to visit Kingsburg
Great Getaways.................95
An anthology of anecdotes about our county
Kern Facts
15
Fruit pastries without all the huff and puff
100
The Bakersfield Look........27
Quick Bites
A Mojave man with his sight set on space
A place that’s dreamin’ up more than burgers
Forget diamonds. Mascara is her best friend
Citizen Kern......................29
What’s Cookin’....................101
A local business built on wishes...yours
Who says romance only happens in February?
Risktakers........................34
Entertaining the Bakersfield Way..103
Horoscope tips for the garden astrologer
Gardening with Mrs. P..........85 Back to basics: Recycling for newbies
©ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM/nycshooter
Going Green...................87
Time to air out your linens and Spring ahead
8200 Stockdale Hwy. Ste D7
832-4270
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Home & Garden
89
No flying lessons needed for this Kamikaze
bottoms up
106
Taste wines from another era at Corison
Life is a Cabernet.............107 Where did our roaming cameras catch you?
Party Chatter...................127
Over-qualified shouldn’t mean under-used
A local landmark that casts a big shadow
Human Resources.............92
Bakersfield’s Sound..........130
Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS
Green
Pages
Green Pages....................87
home & Garden resources
Home & Garden..................90
Looking Good, Feelin’ Good....93
MEDICAL PROFILES Medical Profiles...................108
The Dining Guide The Dining Guide..................109
community partners Community Partners.............114
Shoppers Bazaar................122
Kern Health Resource Guide...123
Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory Worship Directory...............124
everafters... Weddings............................125
EPIEC RS
©ISTOCKPHOTOS.COM/kcline v
10 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Co AP min 20 R I L g 10
BURG d fiel s r e k a of B
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Why Not Have Fresh Fruit in Your Office Weekly?
Fre sh Fru it Box Del ive ry
Our fruit box can include a variety of fruits such as bananas, oranges, apples, grapes, along with many other seasonal fruits. You can choose our pre-mixed assortment or completely customize your box to your fruit desires.
remembering
Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend
Vol. 26 No. 6
S
Winter 2010
Publisher Les Corum
Executive Editor Mike Corum Assistant Editor Anika Henrikson Garden Editor Lynn Pitts
Historical Editor George Gilbert Lynch
Wine & Food Editor Mike Stepanovich Creative Director Chuck Barnes Graphic Artist Laura Turner
Systems/Production Ryan Turner
Sales & Marketing Lisa Crowley, Cheryl Rydia Douglas “Dale” Heflin
Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez
Contributing Writers Allison Aubin, Holly Culhane, Tracie Grimes Jason Gutierrez, Belinda Hernandez Loron Hodge, Matthew Martz Monique Stensrud, Tom Xavier Accounting/Human Resources Melissa Galvan Distribution/Circulation Brigit Ayers
Administrative Assistant Jillian White Cover Photo Ed Kreiser
Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. 1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Office (661) 834-4126 Fax (661) 834-5495 Email: marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net website: bakersfieldmagazine.net Bakersfield Magazine is published bi-monthly by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2009 by Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of Bakersfield Magazine is strictly prohibited. Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or photographs, even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in Bakersfield Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Bakersfield Magazine management or owner. Bakersfield Magazine, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for claims made by advertisers. Subscription rate is $12 for 1 year, $18 for 2 years.
Subscribe now at bakersfieldmagazine.net 12 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Letter from the Editor
It’s Good to be King Who would’ve thunk that me, myself, I would be a direct blood relative of one of our county’s founding fathers? A descendant with distinction. A member of the local historical peerage. It’s true! You could say I qualify as regular Kern County “roy-al-tee.” No wonder Dad wanted to name me Duke. This was fantastic! My heart began racing as I contemplated the ramifications of such a revelation. Do we have a castle? Riches? A royal court jester? Maybe I should add “esquire” to my name. “Say, you there! Bring me my steed!” The possibilities were endless and the excitement too much...so much so, that I missed the part about what this long-gone forefather had founded. It all started a few years back, during dinner with my grandmother, Sally. We got to talking about the good ol’ days—stories I had heard many times before; tales of how it was when she was growing up. Anecdotes about the characters and places that shaped Bakersfield...stories of how my grandfather, fresh out of high school, took a job driving a dynamite truck in Nevada during the construction of the Hoover Dam. He’d had the opportunity to buy land—land that is now under the Las Vegas Strip—for a mere $1 per acre. He passed (damn it). I also heard that my grandmother, whose family’s ranch was out at Kern Lake, had to live in an apartment across from the Bakersfield High School campus, all alone, while she went to high school. Those are the kinds of family “jewels” most of us enjoy hearing. But this time, something was different. This time I found myself wanting more... needing more. Like Indiana Jones, I dug deeper. I was after “the rest of the story.” And what a story I was given! Vast cotton empires and greedy land companies, share croppers, labor camps and Okies, hardships, family feuds, huge fortunes amassed and (unfortunately) lost...all within the last 100 years or so, all within Kern County’s borders, and all within my bloodline. Wow! It was one of my most memorable times spent with my grandma. I mean, who wouldn’t remember such ancestral enlightenment? But, as we were talking about the family tree, I also learned a little about my family’s health history and the risk factors my kids and I would need to be aware of as we grew older. Which brings me to the “heart of the matter.”
THE
G A L L E R Y
SAN JOAQUIN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
The Gift Gallery Your Boutique for We are proud to, once again, be involved with the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign and the fight against heart disease. Heart disease is the number one killer among women of all ages, and knowing your family’s heart history is just one of the many ways you can help prevent it from affecting you. You can read more about the Go Red movement, discover courageous survivor stories from some “special ladies,” and see our annual Ladies in Red photo spread starting on page 37. This issue also features our ever-popular annual Women & Business section, starting on page 53, with some fascinating stories on local women and how they do what they do. Also included is everybody’s favorite feature, “Girl Talk,” on page 61. Of course, all of our regular features are here. My favorite is this issue’s local history piece by George Gilbert Lynch. “Railways to Rockets” is a “blast” to read (find it on page 31). After the incredible responses we received with our inaugural “Stuff We Like” feature, we decided to do it again (including the weekly contests), on page 21. All in all, it’s another great issue of your magazine. Oh, and the lineage I was so excited to learn about (my legacy, if you will). It was my great-great-great grandfather, Calvin B. Alexander. Seems he was the founder of that thriving metropolis known as Alexander’s Corner. Today, it’s better known as Weedpatch. Life as a “royal” will never be the same... My inbox is always open,
Elegant Home Decor Jewelry Designer Perfume Tyler Candles Lindsey Phillips Switch Flops,Purses and Scarves Mud Pie Infant Clothes and Accessories Soft Plush Animals Fresh Flower Arrangements See’s Candy Dewar’s Chews
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Mike Corum comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net
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14 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Kern Facts
People • Places • Events
He’s the Executive Director for the Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired and she’s the Program and Communications Director for the Kern Community Foundation, but this charitable couple knows how to give back to each other, too!
Be honest—what was the first thing you thought when you met your future spouse for the first time? Jeff: Jan’s feistiness reminded me of all the other Italian women who have influenced my life over the years. Jan: We worked down the hall from each other (at KGET). Being on the radio, Jeff didn’t have to dress to impress anyone. One day, he was wearing a shirt, jeans, and sandals. After we finished talking, I turned around, looked him over, and thought, “Damn, he’s hot.” But in that outfit, I thought, “Damn, a liberal.” Jeff proved me wrong on that and still wears his jeans with sandals. What is the funniest thing that happened while you two were dating? Jeff: I can’t go into detail but it involves an ocean liner and a several dozen passengers standing on the Promenade deck outside our cabin window. Seems we were the entertainment for that portion of the cruise. Jan: When we were first getting to know each other, Jeff would send me these emails that seemed flirtatious, but I wasn’t sure. I forwarded one to my friend and asked her what she thought. When I hit the send button, I panicked! I didn’t know if I hit “reply” to Jeff or if I hit “forward” to my friend’s email. I sat there panicked and embarrassed until my friend’s sarcastic reply came back “Duh, ya think?” We all laugh about it now. What is the craziest thing your spouse has ever done for you? Jeff: When we were dating, Jan sneaked into my apartment while I was away and left Valentine’s candies scattered all over the place.
I always wanted to marry Ms. Right, but I never knew her first name was Always!
Jan: When I tell people about his proposal to me, they think he’s either the most romantic person on earth or the craziest. With the premise that we were showing the house we were purchasing to Jeff’s daughter, I step into the bare living room to find a guitar “ ” player, rose petals strewn all over the house, and candles glowing in the din–Jeff Lemucchi ing room. Out of the kitchen comes a chef. Jeff had a photo album he kept of Who’s the first one to admit w all the pictures we’d hen they’re wro Jeff: I’m the first ng? to admit when I’m taken since getting wrong. I always ed to marry Ms. wantRight, but I neve together. He asked a r knew her first Always! name was local artist to paint Jan: Poor Jeff, he is. When we wer a portrait of the e dating, I told hi were some things m there he should know two of us and kept about me. One of I’m always right them is: . I figured the ot bringing out each her things he sh he’d find out soon ould know er or later. thing individually explaining the What is your fa vorite thing to meaning behind do in Bakersfie Jeff: I enjoy sim ld? ple picnics with them—then he a bottle of wine and cheese at lo and salami ca l parks and othe proposed. r outdoor venues Jan: I enjoy First . Fridays because of the arts and cu pect (and seeing lture aswhat may be a fit What is your ting piece for ou We enjoy a picn r house). ic or walk in a lo spouse’s bigcal park, too. gest phobia? What is your le ast favorite thin Jeff: Anyg about your sp pet peeve if yo ouse (a u will) and mos thing—or anyt favorite thing? Jeff: My most fa vo rit one—touching e thing about Ja n is that she doesn’t sweat th e small stuff. An her feet. Come d do you honest think I’m dumb en ly ough to list anyt within an inch hing about her that peeves me? of her feet and Jan: Jeff is a se nsitive person w you’ll draw hom I love because he unde rstands what an back a bloody d how I’m feeling about ce rtain things. At th stump! The e same time, it can be a pet pe eve of mine beca upside is I use of this sensitivity. Jeff may not take so don’t have to mething how it was meant. pay for pedicures. Jan: When Jeff steps out the front door, he can’t close the door until he looks at the keys in his hand to make sure he has them.
in step with:
Jeff & Jan Lemucchi
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 15
Kern Facts
Dust Bowl to Fruit Bowl
T
he history of Kern County is rich with stories of not only the early pioneers, but of those who migrated from Southern and Eastern states such as Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. These itinerant farm workers, commonly called “Okies,” came in hopes of finding a better way to feed their families and creating a better life for themselves. They brought with them a willingness to work, to plant, weed, and harvest. The Great Depression had divested the country and jobs in the Southern states were non-existent. California offered a new beginning and it spawned a migration to the West, just as it had in the 1850s. But this time it was different; Henry Ford had invented the automobile and by 1920, almost everyone owned
Local growers needed workers and the Okies needed the work; so they became a part of the agricultural scene that would grow into a booming multi-billion dollar business. a Model T or A. While good roads were still a thing of the future, most main thoroughfares were somewhat passable. So, as depicted in John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, these migrants made their way to Kern County and other Central Valley towns and settlements. Roadside shanty towns sprang up and the work offered in the fields and vineyards provided a meager living—but at least it was something. Local growers needed workers and the Okies needed the work; so they became a part of the agricultural scene that would grow into a booming multi-billion dollar business.
By Loron Hodge The Sunset Labor Camp near Lamont is still a forerunner to this early establishment. Soon camps were set up in Wasco, Shafter, and Delano. Gene Lundquest, a retired vice president of Cal-Cot, still remembers growing up at the Sunset Camp. Future leaders including Trice Harvey, Kern County Supervisor and Assemblyman, tell of living a spartan life. Harvey lived in a boxcar in Buttonwillow and worked with his parents in the cotton fields. And there are many others who had similar experiences. Country music had its beginning when these itinerant settlers brought their own way of entertainment with them. Most could play and sing, so early roots of country sank deep into the culture of Kern County. They also brought their style of cooking. Meat and potatoes, country ham, butter, and cheese were common. The women baked and canned. Most raised chickens, beef, and swine. In the spring, neighbors would gather to slaughter the animals, can the fruit and vegetables, and put it up for the winter. Because of the almost year-long growing season in California, these settlers could grow their own food. Backyard gardens became a familiar sight. What they did not need for feeding their own families, they sold at farmers’ markets or to local grocery stores and restaurants.
16 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Driven out of the South and East because of bad weather, no work, and relentless windstorms, they came...and with them came the willingness to become productive citizens. As more land was leveled and crops planted, the life that had escaped them back home was now close at hand. From the Dust Bowl to the Fruit Bowl, Kern owes its bountiful production to these early good-hearted people who helped shape our enduring legacy and made Kern County one of the leading agriculture-producing counties in the country.
Did You Know? The Bakersfield In dians baseball team launc hed as a farm club for the Cleveland Indians in 1946. And later switched to the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1953.
Source: The Histor ic Chronology of Kern County
In & Around B•Town
memory lane T
he first meeting of the Board of Supervisors was held at Havilah, the first county seat, on August 1, 1866. Henry Hammell and J. J. Rhymes were present. Mr. Hammell was chosen Chairman of the Board. This meeting was held “pursuant to the act of the Legislature creating the County of Kern, to define its boundaries and to provide for its organization.” The act also provided for such organization by appointing the first crops of County officials. The Board at the meeting proceeded to lay out, organize, and define the boundary of townships Nos. 1, 2, and 3. The first tax levied by the Board was State and County: $2.61 on $100 worth of property. At the August 5, 1867 meeting, the new courthouse at Havilah, constructed as per contract for $2,200 was accepted. It appears that about the time the new county was organized, a news [organization] was also established. We find that the first number of a paper called The Courier, was issued in Havilah Saturday, August 18, 1866, by the Courier Publishing Company. Politically, this paper was Democratic, was a four-page, six-column sheet, and was much above the average newspaper in a new field. The first number presented the following as a County Directory:
an State Senator, J. W. Freem C. Brown I. , bly sem As of er mb Me ed County Judge, Theron Re lhoun Ca E. District Attorney, E. ss Sheriff, W. B. Ro Clerk, H. D. Bequette Treasurer, D. A. Sinclair Assessor, R. B. Sagely Surveyor, Thomas Baker Schools, J. R. Riley Superintendent of Public istrator, Joseph Lively min Coroner and Public Ad J. Rhymes ell, S. A. Bishop and J. Supervisors, Harry Hamm
©istockphoto.com/DNY59/sundown001
Source: Memorial and Biographical History of the counties of Fresno, Tulare and Kern, California Chicago, The Lewis Publishing Company, 1892
B. Brundage, Thomas Lespeyre, and E. E. Calhoun appear as advertisers in the legal profession in the first printing. The Courier of September 15, 1866, makes mention of the organization of a hook and ladder fire company in Havilah, but it seems they never owned a hook or a ladder. The same paper mentions L. F. Humiston as county judge, and quotes prices of produce, goods, etc., as follows: flour, per barrel, $12; butter, per pound, 50¢; cheese, 37¢; beans, 8¢; eggs, 62¢ per dozen; coal oil, $2.25 per gallon; candles, 37¢ per pound; and crushed sugar, 30¢. Changes came quickly. On October 13 of that year, the paper appeared in a new and much improved dress. The heading was, “Havilah Weekly Courier, J. K. Acklin, printer and business manager.”
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 17
Kern Facts
Local
expressions
A
love of creation binds every artist. A writer, a musician, a painter—they all work with what they know to make something new for the world. Rarely does an artist focus on money or fame. Rather, they attempt to express an emotion through a chosen medium...it could be clay, it could be through words, or it could be on canvas. And most artists hope, though some might not admit, that they want their work to resonate for someone...anyone. That’s exactly what 30-year-old artist Jerry Anderson finds so appealing about painting, mainly because he has been positively affected by other artists’ work himself. “About three years ago, I saw a Jackson Pollock painting. Something about it moved me and I thought to myself, ‘I have to do that.’ ” Anderson, who is slowly making his way into the Bakersfield art scene,
“...even if you leave your creative side, it always catches up with you.” believes that’s what truly brought out the long-dormant artistic side of his personality. “I was always artistic as a kid and, originally, I had wanted to go into film school, but a career in business took over,” he mused. “But even if you leave your creative side, it always catches up with you.” It was seeing the work of Pollock, who rose to fame during the abstract expressionist movement, that finally prompted Anderson to approach art as more than just a hobby. Though he works in mergers and acquisitions for a local oil company, he has still managed to turn his home and garage into a makeshift studio—with canvases on every wall, each in various stages of completion. “When I saw that Pollock painting, I tried to recreate it, over and over again,
just to see if I could. It was a fantastic outlet and by immersing myself in art, I’ve learned to view the world differently. I now see how I can bring artwork into it.” Anderson, who has lists of projects he wants to work on in the near future, has also learned to focus on one piece at a time and give each their due. “It’s because I want to take it more seriously,” he said. “But all of my work is abstract. I want to bring out colors.” While he started strictly on canvas, large and small, he has begun to experiment with different mediums, taking his artistic style and focusing it on unconventional items. Like skeletons and mannequins. After initially exploring the option of having his work housed in galleries, Anderson decided he’d rather his pieces benefit someone’s life, instead of being displayed for a select few. That’s why he’s so excited to be partnering with his longtime friend, and former Colorado Rockies outfielder, Sean Barker for a good cause. “Art should be used to do good. [Barker] is in the process of creating a nonprofit organization to support research for myotonic dystrophy. We’re working to get an art auction together to benefit the organization.” Anderson’s paintings will be auctioned off for his friend’s charity, Socks-On. They’ll be hanging in Barker’s wife’s bridal store, Little White Dress, come March 5 for the benefit. His paintings were also recently chosen to hang in the dining area of Café Med, where they are available for sale. So whether he’s ready or not, Anderson certainly will be entering the Bakersfield art world. And that entrance is bound to be colorful. “I’m always looking for something new to paint on,” he said, laughing. “My cat might be next.” Visit him online on Facebook or at www.jerrytheartist.com.
18 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
By the Numbers
Sources: Kern County Library System, Board of Trade, Valley Plaza Mall Information, Fox Theater, CSUB Athletics Department, Google Maps. ©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/caracterdesign/LPETTET/ diane39/carton_king/Pixel-Pizzazz
13,340 The number of new titles added to the Kern County Library System between 2008 and 2009.
17
The number of stars along the sidewalk of the Fox Theater.
The number of miles from Bakersfield to Hollywood.
89.2
10
The number of women’s sports teams at CSUB.
110 4
The number of miles from Bakersfield Magazine’s office to Dewar’s Ice Cream downtown.
The number of stores inside Valley Plaza Mall. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 19
Thanks Bakersfield for 20 Years...
Kern Facts
Alternative Care wishes to thank all of the clients and families for your trust and confidence in allowing Alternative Care to provide quality care for your loved ones for the past 20 years! We also thank our wonderful caregivers--past and present--who have been so dedicated in providing care! You have been the reason for our succcess and great reputation in Kern County! We sincerely thank all of you and look forward to our next 20 years of providing quality home-care in Kern County
631-2036
2029 21st St. Bakersfield Jeanne Schamblin, Owner
W 1 2
e “predicted” KGET chief meteorologist Alissa Carlson’s five favorite things. Kidding...kidding. She told us. Peanut Butter Cups. Especially the Reeses’ Eggs at Easter, Trees at Christmas, and Pumpkins at Halloween. Pilates! I rarely miss my Monday and Friday classes at the gym.
3
Lenticular Clouds. These are beautiful, stationary, lensshaped clouds that form in high altitudes. They look like space ships!
4
Chicago Bears. I’m from Illinois. Besides, they made it to the Super Bowl a couple of years ago.
5
Halloween. I love to dress up! I have costumes for everything. My dad still wears a mask every Halloween, too!
will you
WIN ?
T Andy Barkate CRPS, CCPS
Helping Kern County retire for over 25 years. 661-631-4355 CA Insurance License #0803635
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he perks of being an A-List member are limitless! Think about it; you can win tickets to exclusive events around town, you can collect cool gear, and you can even dine at fabulous restaurants...and it’s all free! And signing up is free, too. Just go to bakersfieldmagazine.net and join and you’ll be in the running for lots of great prizes. It just so happens we have a $100 gift certificate to Valentien with your name on it! Well, the name of the first person to spot their name below and email us at alist@bakersfieldmagazine.net.* So what are you waiting for? If you’re not an A-List member, go to our website and join today. You could be seeing your name listed below in our next issue.
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Stuff We Like Sandra Roberts Clutch, $101, Bella’s 9000 Ming Ave., Ste. K-6 (661) 664-4974
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Charlotte Tarantola Cardigan $123, Miss. Holiday 9500 Brimhall Rd., Ste. 303 (661) 587-0876
Carved Trunk, $695 Timeless Furnishings 1918 Chester Ave. (661) 326-0222
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Pendleton Sport Coat, $255 Emporium Western Store, 1031 19th St. (661) 325-8476
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Kern Facts
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ust as it pays to have a Discover Card, being a Bakersfield Magazine A-List member is full of rewards. We’re not exactly paying you, but we are giving you the opportunity to go to a lot of awesome local events...for free! Just go to BakersfieldMagazine.net and sign up and you’ll start receiving contests in your email inbox. When you see the contest alert, be sure to enter quick...tickets are flying out of our hands!
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www.advancedheartmedical.com 22 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Did You Know? In 1876, Warren Fra zier was the first man to travel through the Kern River Gorge Source: The Historic Chr
onology of Kern County
People • Places • Events
Feeling the
LOVE
es, Dog-eared pag missing recipes, n’t be ...and we could more thrilled!
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W
e were all taught not to judge a book by its cover. Still, it’s pretty hard not to jump to conclusions when you take a look at the tattered cover of this particular copy of Bakersfield Magazine we found at Big Brand Tires on White Lane. Our verdict? This magazine has been read. A lot. One of our associates was in need of new tires and while waiting in the lobby, they noticed this issue, with its dog-eared pages, missing recipes, and a spine that is so worn the magazine falls open when you pick it up. We couldn’t be more thrilled. Because that’s just how we want it. We love hearing (and seeing the proof) that people read and re-read their issues over and over again. That means we’re doing something right. Thanks to all
hmmm. Where
T
you readers out there who keep reading (and re-reading) your city magazine. Think you have an issue that’s even more “enjoyed” than this? Send us a picture at comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net and you might just be rewarded for being such an avid reader!
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hat’s it, folks! You asked for it. We’re going to have to make these things harder. Once again, we received overwhelming responses to our last Pop Quiz, so we’re going to test your knowledge with this picture. Email us at comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net if you can identify the object in the photograph and tell us where it was taken. If you do, you’ll be the winner of $30 in gift certificates to Russo’s Books. Hopefully you won’t use it to buy a book about Bakersfield landmarks...then we’d really be in trouble.
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Signature Properties, Signature Service!
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 23
Kern Facts
Can’t Fool Me!
A
round of applause is in order for Sonia Alvarez. She was the first person to correctly identify our last Pop Quiz picture! “It’s a solar-powered, self-propelled, timed anti-algae release tank, in the Truxtun Lake, just across from CBCC,” Sonia wrote in her email. “I never thought that information would come in handy,” she said, jokingly, as she came in to our office to claim her $30 gift certificate. Turns out, it pays to know factoids about Bakersfield. So keep exploring our city and keep reading your city magazine to see if your knowledge of Bakersfield can win you great prizes!
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WE WON STUFF TOO! W
e’ve been absolutely amazed by the response we’re getting from our newest feature, Stuff We Like ! Not only are we hearing good things, but we’re getting a lot of smiles from the winn ers of our weekly contests! If you’re not in the know (and you should be), each week we’re giving away a gift certificate to one of the stores we featured. The contests are open to anyone—you just have to check our Stuff We Like blog at bakersfieldmaga zine. net and watch for a new contest to post! We’ve already had seven big winners! Terry Norris Fashion & Fame Rochelle Billet-Smith House of Talula Lorraine Reza Jezabelles Jasmine M. Barajas La Coquette Cynthia Rodriguez Ellie Jaye’s Ricky Keel Snead’s Debbie Lonon Fashionista See page 21 for this issue’s Stuff We Like ...and new chances to win!!!
24 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Skilled Hands
‘Phast’ Phonetics I
t’s not everyday you meet someone who made longterm career decisions at age eight, but that’s exactly what Donna McGarry did. As a court reporter for the Superior Court of Kern County, McGarry, a Santa Maria native, spends her days recording complex courtroom dialog. She’s doing exactly what she set out to do as a third-grader. “I had a babysitter who was a court reporter and she used to let me play with her stenotype. It felt like we had a secret language,” McGarry said, smiling. It may very well be considered a secret language to most people— those of us who spend our days typing emails and reports one letter
“ You really have to be a perfectionist. If you make a mistake or mistype what someone says, it could mean life or death for someone on trial.” at a time on an typical keyboard. Because, let’s face it, the stenotype is no typical keyboard; instead of 101-plus alphanumeric keys, there are only 24 keys and they aren’t labeled. The top rows are consonants and bottom row are vowels. And you’re not typing words by their spelling...you’re typing them phonetically. Not only that, but you use your left hand to type the first part of a word and the right hand to type the second. Can you imagine having to type a two- or three-person conversation that way? McGarry can; it’s what she does. And while the fastest recorded typing speed on a traditional keyboard is 212 words per minute by Barbara Blackburn, the Guinness Book of World Records holder, McGarry does the job at upwards of 300 words per minute, albeit on a different machine. Not only is she typing what lawyers, judges, defendants, and witnesses are saying, she’s having to do it accurately. “You really have to be a perfec-
Fast fingers are just part of the job for Donna McGarry.
tionist,” she explained of the job. “If you make a mistake or mistype what someone says, it could mean life or death for someone on trial.” Talk about a heavy weight on your shoulders. Not to mention the fact that because McGarry is a Certified Real Time Reporter, the words she types are appearing on a screen for the entire courtroom to see as she types them. To even be certified, one has to have 98 percent accuracy at all times. And that’s why a court reporter has the ability to halt proceedings if they are unable to hear what’s being said. All McGarry has to do is turn to the judge and ask. Modern technology has aided the job of court reporter: they’re able to create their own dictionaries. “For different trials, we’ll use different dictionaries, because keys can be used to type two different words. Part of our education is in medical and legal terminology, we have to know commonly used terms. So we simply program a certain keystroke to mean one word in one dictionary, and another thing in a different dictionary.” Simply, she says. But McGarry
can say that because she continues to attend trainings for court reporters and because she is always aiming to receive certification in the various areas of court reporting. She is a certified CART, which stands for Communication Access Realtime Translation, which she uses for people who are hard of hearing or
deaf in school or official meetings. That also means she can type closed captions for live television. “When you’re watching live T.V. that’s been closed captioned, and suddenly you see a word on screen that doesn’t match what someone said, that’s because the person typing hadn’t programed
that word into their dictionary. That happens a lot with slang,” McGarry said, chuckling. “Slang can really throw a court reporter off. You have to figure out how to phonetically spell whatever word was used on the spot.” That’s what keeps the job interesting for her. There’s always something new to learn; a new word to program; a new certification. For an outsider, the stenotype is a foreign object, producing a language that is unique to its user, the guardian of the court record. That mystique propelled McGarry into her profession and it’s kept her happy for 25 years.
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 25
26 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Michelle Carpenter, 33 Occupation: Business Manager and Senate Campaign Treasurer Are you a Bakersfield Native? Yes, I was born and raised here. But for the first two years of my marriage I lived in Santa Barbara. Is there a beauty product that you absolutely can’t live without? Wow! I don’t know if I can narrow it down to just one. If I must choose, I would have to say it’s mascara! Do you think Bakersfield has a style? We are very casual...which I can relate to! Describe your personal style. My style would best be described as simple, tailored, and comfortable with a touch of classy. How long does it usually take you to get ready in the morning? Well, with a 3-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a spoiled husband, I take what I can get (which is not very much). I would have to say about 30 minutes with a shower. Is there a celebrity or person in your life that you get your style from? No, but I know that even though my mom passed away when I was young, I learned a few things from her. She always wore jewelry; bracelets, earrings, necklaces, etc., and always had well-manicured nails. So she must have instilled in me that those were somehow feminine qualities, because to this day, I can’t leave the house without my nails done and jewelry on. I even wear earrings to go to the gym! What is your favorite item of clothing? In the summer it’s flip flops and in the winter it’s Uggs.
What are you wearing? The shirt is from Macy’s, the scarf I borrowed from my sister who bought it in Italy, the skirt is Diane von Furstenberg, the boots are Impo Stretch from TJ Maxx, the purse is Mondani, and all the jewelry is from Fabrie Jewelers. Does your style change when you are not at work? When I’m just relaxing and hanging out at home, I live in jeans and sweaters. I love being comfortable. How do you personalize your ‘business’ look? Since my office is in the comfort of my own home, I generally personalize it with a pair of comfortable pink slippers. When I head out to the ranch, I wear a pair of jeans and tennis shoes. And when I go to a political event, I wear a simple and classy dress, a pair of heels, and, of course, my favorite (and timeless) pieces of jewelry. What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield? TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and my favorite jewelry store: Fabrie Jewelers. What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made? In junior high, I made the horrible mistake of wearing crazy neon colors and thinking I looked cute rocking the Aqua Net “straight up” bangs. Are you a bargain hound? Absolutely! I never pay full retail price for anything! What mistakes do you think men make when they dress? Sloppiness. I don’t like when men wear baggy clothes. And that wrinkled, unkempt look is just simply unacceptable. Have they not heard of an iron?
FASHION TIP: don’t go out without your nails done and jewelry on. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 27
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!
CITIZEN KERN
Personal Stats: Name: Burt Rutan Age: 66 Birthplace: Estacada, Oregon Title: Aerospace Engineer; Chief Technical Officer, Designer Emeritus for Scaled Composites
How he got started: Rutan jokes that it was fate that lead him to aerospace engineering. “I was born on the same day ‘Kelly’ Johnson and Ben Rich founded Skunk Works, the nickname for Lockheed Martin’s Advanced Development Programs,” Rutan explains of the men responsible for a number of famous aircraft designs including the U-2. After “landing” at Edwards Air Force Base’s Flight Test Center in 1965 as a Flight Test Project Engineer, Rutan conducted fifteen flight programs. From there, he founded Rutan Aircraft Factory, Inc. in 1974 and Scaled Composites in 1982.
photo courtesy of Scaled composites
Career highlights: Rutan smartly says history will be the best indicator of the accomplishments he’s had. But one thing comes to mind: knowing that he’s designed 44 unique aircraft at this point in his career certainly gives him something to smile about. It’s a reputation that led British mogul Sir Richard Branson to his doorstep in 2006 with the request that Rutan create a commercial space plane.
‘‘
photo courtesy of Scaled composites
meet
Burt Rutan
‘‘
His favorite part of the industry: “It’s all in the performance of creating,” Rutan says of the job. “And in working with test pilots who have the courage to fly new designs.” One of the pilots he’s worked with is his brother, the world-renowned Dick Rutan.
Fabled designer of over 40 unique aircraft & spacecraft
It’s all in the performance of creating...And in working with test pilots who have the courage to fly new designs.
His heroes: Not only does Rutan look up to Kelly Johnson, but he admires the work of Wernher von Braun, the famous German-American rocketphysicist who worked for NASA upon its inception in 1958, the year after Sputnik blazed across the sky and ignited the Space Race.
What he’d still like to accomplish: “So many projects are done in a closed shop,” he says of aircraft design. “You don’t find out about it until it’s ready to fly.” That was certainly the case of the famous Voyager. Rutan says he’ll continue to be a part of Scaled Composites’ designs and projects as long as he can. The reason? “Have you ever been to Mojave? There’s nothing else to do.”
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 29
30 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
THUNDER IN THE DESERT: HISTORY IN THE MAKING
By George Gilbert Lynch
w
man V-I pulse jet engines and, later, the ram jet engines. The first time we heard the sonic boom and looked up at an A12 Blackbird (predecessor of the SR71 Blackbird) streaking past at over three times the speed of sound, we were astonished. Yes, we had an “E Ticket,” grandstand seat for the greatest show on earth during those days in the desert. After 1957, freight traffic to the Rocket Base increased to a point where the Santa Fe put the Edwards Local freight into service, running daily out of Barstow, just to handle all the hundreds of tank cars; box cars; and liquid oxygen, helium, and building materials used in the conversion of the Rocket Base into a full-spectrum research facility. The Army Corps Of Engineers performed all the construction work while civilian companies performed all the technical installations. They dug miles of tunnels into the mountains to house the laboratories, research teams, and equipment. They also built many miles of steepgraded, first-class railroad around those mountains to facilitate the loading and unloading of materials. In the 1960s, the Rocket Base began the building and testing of the most powerful rocket motor in the world, the Saturn I, which eventually launched our astronauts to the moon. This rocket motor weighs nine tons and burns kerosene and liquid >>
Saturn launch in 1973 utilized five monstrous F-1 rocket motors like those tested at Edwards.
Photo courtesy of George Gilbert Lynch
Photo courtesy of George Gilbert Lynch
hen Russia launched Sputnik I into orbit on October 4, 1957, I was a brakeman on the Santa Fe Railroad. I worked on a local freight train called the Boron Local, which ran out of Barstow, California, daily, hauling borax from the mine at Boron and providing freight service to and from the rocket base and Edwards Air Force Base. After Russia put Sputnik into orbit, the rocket center at Edwards began a massive expansion program to research, build, and test rocket engines powerful enough to put our astronauts into space. They also built test towers and test-fired most of the military missiles such as the ATLAS, THOR, MACE, and other rocket-powered missiles. Railroaders always referred to the rocket research center as “the Rocket Base.” The rocket research area is located on a series of low mountains known as Leuhman Ridge, 3 miles south of Boron and about 10 miles east of the main base at Edwards. So many Cold War experimental projects were being carried out in the sky around Boron and Edwards during that era, I saw or heard something unusual almost every day. My crew and I witnessed the U2 spy plane many times as it went through testing. We would hear the strange exhaust sound of a “buzz bomb” as an experimental plane flew above us, testing the Ger-
Photo courtesy of NASA
The Space Race was on at the famous Rocket Hill as seen from Boron.
A local Edwards engine on Rocket Hill hauling a helium car. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 31
Railways to Rockets
Photos courtesy of George Gilbert Lynch
oxygen at the unbelievable rate of three tons per second. The fuel flow of this motor could fill a 30,000-gallon backyard swimming pool in 10 seconds. Each motor developed 1 1/2 million pounds of thrust and five of these were on the Apollo Moon Rocket. One warm spring afternoon in 1963, when I was a crew member on the Edwards Local, switching cars up at the Rocket Base, our crew had 12 tank cars of kerosene to leave on the storage area which was about 50 yards below a test firing tower where the Saturn I rocket motors were tested nearly daily. These motors went through more than 5,000 firing tests during the 1960s. After setting the tank cars at the fuel dock, our crew waited for a group of tank cars to be emptied so we could take them back to the Barstow yards. Conductor Willman and I were chatting when a siren rang out; we knew that a test firing was about to begin. The security personnel, in the past, had always ushered us out of an area where a test was scheduled, but this time they thought we had left the base earlier. We were directly below the testing tower. The F1 Saturn Rocket motor in the test
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tower above us suddenly roared to life for its usual two and a half-minute test firing. Can you imagine what it’s like to be too close to a rocket motor burning three tons of fuel per second? Willman and I, along with other crew members, were forced into a squatting, fetal position with our hands over our ears and our mouths wide open.
This was our natural reaction to such a thunderous sound accompanied by a constant, pulsing shock wave that had all the pebbles on the ground bouncing like popcorn. The pressure of the concussion on our bodies was painful but we knew we had to endure about two and a half minutes of this agony before the test was finished. Those minutes seemed an eternity but the test finally ended. It took a few minutes for us to regain our hearing and afterward, I noticed several hands trembling as they lit up cigarettes. The crew on the Edwards Local liked the job of switching at the Rocket Base for
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Full power! The Saturn F1 motor developed 1 1/2 million pounds of thrust and five of these were on the Apollo Rocket.
brake as tightly as I could and the heavy car just kept gaining speed. The brake on that car was practically useless and, by that time, I was around a curve and already out of sight of the crew. I had about four sharp curves approaching and I was going too fast to jump off. I hung on with a death grip and prayed the car wouldn’t roll over on those curves. I somehow made the first curves. As I rounded the final one at nearly 60 miles per hour, I could see the inside wheels A network of pipes fed fuel to the Saturn F1 motor at a rate that could fill a 30,000 gallon pool in only 10 seconds!
many reasons. For one, the base soda fountain served a great lunch at a very low price. Another reason was the excitement. The steep grade of that railroad made it a challenge to switch cars and, at times, to even pull a string of loaded cars to their proper unloading area because the locomotive was unable to get enough traction. It was also a very dangerous area for handling cars because the grade, in some areas of the track, was so steep that the handbrakes on the cars weren’t sufficient to stop the car from running away. One day in 1965, when I was brakeman on a crew that had finished most of our switching at the lower sidings of the Rocket Base, conductor Brower suggested I ride an empty helium car to the bottom of the hill and the crew would pick up the car and myself as they left the base later. The 115ton car was one of the heaviest cars ever built. Conductor Brower pulled the pin on my car and away I went down that grade, which was about as steep as the highway over Greenhorn Summit. I wound the hand-
Ever wonder what it’s like to be too close to a rocket burning about three tons of fuel per second? We went into a squatting, fetal position with hands over our ears and mouths wide open! rise above the rail, but the heavy helium car didn’t roll over. I then had a long, flat threemile straightaway on which to stop the car. These events took place over 50 years ago, but as I look back on those Cold War days of the frantic rocket building era at Edwards, I feel I performed a very small part in that great effort to put a man on the moon. My railroading experiences during that time period will always be in my memories. Today, as I drive to Las Vegas or Laughlin, I can see the rocket test towers are still up there on the Rocket Base near Boron, and I am sure our government continues to do research in that desert mountaintop facility. However, I’m certain it will never be as active as when we went all out in the race against Russia to be the first nation to put a man on the moon. v
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E
wishes really do
ver been on a home tour, spotted the most beautiful handpainted molding you’ve ever seen, and thought, “I Wish I had that.” Maybe it was a fabulous fountain or ornate mirror that had you yearning. But where do you find such treasures? Jim and Robert Welch have an app(titude) for that. And for the past 10plus years, this father/son team has been fulfilling design dreams of homeowners, decorators, contractors, and architects through their cyber-showroom, WishIHadThat.com. And it all started with closets, posters, and Monopoly games. “Strange things happen to a guy when he’s about to turn 50,” laughs Jim. “I was running a pretty lucrative business, Closet King,
where I was designing and installing custom closets; but as I started looking at 50 square in the eye, I thought, ‘there’s gotta be an easier way to make a living!’ The work was just so physical—I felt like my body was giving out one joint at a time.” Jim decided to give the Internet a go, thinking that he could sell customized closet systems he had designed over the years directly to his customers and expand his company’s capabilities while saving some wear and tear on his joints. But as he started shopping around for web designers, he realized that it would practically cost him an arm and a leg just to get his website designed. That’s when Jim decided to call his son Rob, then an engineering student at Cal Tech, and pick his brain. “Keep in mind this was in 1997-’98 and web design was still an up-and-coming business so it was quite a bit more expensive back then than it is now. But Rob came up with this fantastic 400-page design for only $400; a fraction of the cost other web designers had quoted me, and I was thrilled!” Having solved the problem of developing a web design at a reasonable cost, Jim started to tackle the next obstacle: the name. “Of course I wanted ‘ClosetKing.com,’ but someone had already purchased the domain name. So I just started doodling around with words and ideas for names and came up with ‘wish I had that.’ It was available, so I bought the domain.”
34 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Jim was so excited about the new venture and so blown away by the awesome job Rob had done on the website, he started telling friends and customers. “Before I knew it, they were asking Rob to design sites for them. “Then something else occurred to us... what if we started hosting these websites under the umbrella of WishIHadThat.com? We decided to follow that line of thinking and launched a portal website that was really a precursor to a search engine like Google, where people could search for Bakersfield and Kern County area restaurants, schools, sports, travel. The site featured hundreds of local businesses, resource links, etc.” Now it was time to get the word out. So, armed with a computer, keyboard, and mouse, Jim headed to the Kern County Fair to launch his new brainchild. He showed thousands of fair-goers how they could find things quickly and easily by going through the WishIHadThat.com portal and clicking on the featured sites they were hosting. And with every click on a site entered through WishIHadThat.com, Jim made a few cents. “By early 2000, WishIHadThat kept me so busy, I decided it was time to retire from Closet King altogether and focus my time completely to running and marketing WishIHadThat. And Rob decided to trade engineering for accounting and come to work for WishIHadThat.com. He’s always been a sharp kid!” Jim laughs, patting Rob on the back. It was a major life decision for Rob, changing his focus from the technical side of business to managing the bottom line. “You just never know what’s going to happen when you decide to switch career paths,” Rob says, catching his father’s eye as he reflects on his decision to leave Cal Tech, “there’s a certain amount of risk; but I definitely picked the right road.” The Welch’s path to building a strictly portal site took a bit of a turn when they encountered a road bump as they were starting up. “We needed to increase our site’s traffic (since that’s how we make money), so we had planned a big radio campaign and huge print campaign in the local paper after our launch at the fair,” Jim says. “The paper said they wouldn’t run our advertising since they saw us as competition for Bakersfield.com, so we had to do a little regrouping, re-thinking, re-focusing.
come true “Commissions from sales and ‘pay-perclick’ agreements with those on our sponsor links is where we decided to put our focus, turning our site into a retail site rather than just a resource site. And the first product we put up on our site was posters.” Poster sales went through the roof almost immediately, and it got Jim thinking again. If selling posters could bring in money, why not try selling other things? “Well, it all sounded good to me! But the one ‘sticky’ point was that I needed to put in additional capital money, which I didn’t quite have at the time. But I just knew the risk would be worth it! My wife, however, was not as sure,” Jim says, lowering his chin. “That’s when I decided that if I gave Dad a little seed money and bought into the business, I would actually be saving my parents’ marriage,” Rob interjected. “The best $20,000 he ever spent, and the cheapest buy-in I can think of,” Jim retorts. Monopoly games were the next big push for WishIHadThat.com (“If I never have to wrap another Monopoly game in a cold garage at Christmastime, it’ll be too soon for me!” notes Jim), followed by fountains, statues, artwork, and the over 38,000 pages of décor and architectural items you’ll find on WishIHadThat.com today. “We now maintain thousands of keywords on various search engines through the website and have become an Industry Partner of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) to supply distinctive decorative products to the industry. We also started importing products (mainly from China, India, and Thailand) in 2002, so we started a new division, RoJico Trading Company (short for Rob/Jim Company), which we operate as an independent wholesale company,” Jim explains, adding that RoJico grew quickly and now has representation in almost every state. But even with their company’s rapid growth, it’s been “touch and go” more than once over the past 10 years, Jim points out. “It was definitely a ‘roll of the dice’ in terms of whether we’d make it or not,” Jim admits, “but timing made our business.” “And adaptability is what keeps us alive,” Rob adds. “For instance, when the economy took such a hit and we weren’t selling $10,000 water features anymore,
R I S K T A K E R S By Tracie Grimes
we quickly shifted the focus from high-end products to more inexpensive lines.” “We try to react quickly to the likes and dislikes of our customers, but we also have the advantage of being able to design products at a reasonable price for our customers and build them on-site or outsource them to keep the costs low,” Jim says. A witness to the playful banter and ability to finish each other’s thoughts quickly sees the symbiotic relationship between the Welch men as the driving force behind WishIHadThat.com and its 11-person staff. And their ability to, at times, “agree to disagree” but move on with the business, is one thing both men point to as a key to their success. A self-proclaimed pessimist and “glass half empty” kind of guy, Rob values Jim’s enthusiasm and different way of looking at things. “This man right here,” Rob begins, jabbing his thumb towards Jim, “is the risktaker in the business. Dad is very optimistic, gets very excited about new product lines; a very ‘glass half-full’ kinda guy. Our business wouldn’t exist without Dad.” “Oh, he says that now, but when I really wanted to push those Michelangelo ceiling designs, you weren’t so ‘yeah, Dad, your ideas always turn out great!” laughs Jim.
“OK, Dad—mom and I were wrong about that one,” Rob admits, adding that he’s still surprised the huge 67-inch by 87-inch ceiling medallions would sell so well. “Rob fought me on that one,” Jim adds with a smile, “but sometimes I win.” v
Jim and Rob Welch make up the father-son business team behind WishIHadThat.com.
WishIHadThat.com
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 35
36 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Ladies in R ed Your City. Your Life. Your Magazine.
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It’s about the heart of a woman.
It is with a happy heart that we unveil the 6th annual Go Red! for Women section and our 2010 Ladies in Red...Our hope is that the stories of survival on the following pages encourage you to listen to your heart and start leading a healthier life. Your heart has always cared for you, why not return the favor?
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BAKERSFIELDMAGAZINE’S
6th Annual
for Women Special Issue Presented by:
Dear Women of Bakersfield, It is Bakersfield Memorial Hospital’s pleasure to be a part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign again this year. As the most trusted cardiac hospital in Kern County, we have always valued the relationship we have with the American Heart Association because their mission aligns so closely with our own. As a national, not-for-profit, healthcare organization, the American Heart Association works to provide quality public education, encourage physician involvement, and act as a patient’s advocate. These endeavors are also true of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. We aim to help Bakersfield fight back against a disease that has become the number one killer of women in America and, in many cases, is entirely preventable. That is why we take pride in not only being a sponsor of American Heart Association events, like the annual Go Red Luncheon, but in advancing cardiac healthcare in our community, and encouraging heart health education for women. Women so often tend to forget that heart disease and stroke affect them as well, even if they have a family history of heart conditions. We urge you to learn your family history, recognize your risk factors, and do everything you can to keep your heart healthy. For more information on our Heart and Vascular program, visit bakersfieldmemorial.org.
Photos by ed kreiser
Sincerely, Jon Van Boening President & CEO
Open the Go foldout the isfollowing to see 2007’s LadiesInc. in Red! Red Foron Women trademarkedpages by the American Heart Association,
The red dress is trademarked by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 39
Salutes the 2010
Ladies
Did you hear? Red is in! Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Bakersfield Magazine is proud to salute 2010â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ladies in Red, local women who have been affected by heart disease and wear the color in support of the American Heart Association.
Yanez, Memorial Christina Hospital Hernandez, Ami Boothe, Estrella Castillo, Ashley Vorhees, Teri & Katelyn Bomar 40 Bakersfield Magazine / PresentedShannon by: Bakersfield
in Red
Special Issue Presented By Go Red and Go Red For Women are trademarks of AHA. The Red Dress Design is a trademark of U.S. DHHS.
Photography BY ed kreiser
Maria Garza, Connie Bartlett, Inga Barks, Crystal McCloud, Cheryl Ketchum, Cheryl Scott www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 41
Salutes the 2010
Ladies
By donning red, you can show your support for the Go Red for Women campaign, too. No one is immune to heart disease, so get involved today and help make this disease a thing of the past.
Michelle Mize, Martha Samora, Emiliana Sikola, Teresa Carlson, Elsa Florez, Tami Mlcoch, Michelle McLean 42 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
in Red
Special Issue Presented By Go Red and Go Red For Women are trademarks of AHA. The Red Dress Design is a trademark of U.S. DHHS.
Photography BY ed kreiser Photography BY ed kreiser
Pam Hornbuckle, Debbie Moreno, Ginger Riley, Sandra Hegland, Shelly Davis, Renee Pair www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 43
Women & Heart Disease... We have answered the Call ! The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign has brought heart disease in women into the national spotlight. The red dress is the symbol for heart disease awareness in women. It is the “red alert” that heart disease is the #1 killer in women. Comprehensive Cardiovascular Medical Group has made a commitment to early detection, timely treatment and prevention of heart disease in women. To learn more about heart disease in women, visit us at w w w. c c v m g . c o m or call 323-HART (4278) to make an appointment to see one of our cardiologists.
COMPREHENSIVE CARDIOVASCULAR
...leading the fight against heart disease
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44 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Ladies in Red
Special
Special Issue Presented By
It’s about the heart of a woman.
SKatelyn BomarS By Monique Stensrud
Cyndi Bomar and her husband, Ken, recently celebrated the 4th birthday of
“Katelyn was so tiny,” Cyndi recalls,
a speedy recovery and the only re-
“she was in and out of the hospital,
minder of her tenuous first months of
seeing the cardiologist and her primary
life is a slight heart murmur that will
care physician.”
repair itself with time.
their beautiful twin girls, Katelyn and
“She even struggled to eat. When
Looking at her today, you would never
Teri. A birthday is a special day in every
I would feed her, she would sweat so
know all that she has been through.>>
parent’s life; it’s the celebration of their
much because she had to exert too
growing family and new life that’s been
much energy.”
brought into the world. But the Bomar’s
Four months after birth, Katelyn was
road to this birthday has been a long
sent to a cardiac catheterization lab
one. And this birthday wouldn’t have
in Los Angeles to examine the way
Katelyn had been in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) since she was born.
the blood was flowing through her
been special, or even possible, had it
revealed that her heart was beating
not been for the advances in cardiovas-
so hard it was tearing the flesh at
cular disease diagnosis and treatment.
the bottom of the heart and un-
Katelyn and Teri were born prema-
able to get any blood to the pul-
turely on January 17, 2006. Cyndi had
heart. The exam revealed that there was an obstruction preventing the correct amount of blood from getting to her pulmonary artery. A later exam, a 3D echocardiogram,
monary artery.
a high risk pregnancy and had to have
In early July, at five months
an emergency c-section under an-
old, Katelyn went into surgery
esthesia. When she woke up, Cyndi
to repair her heart and restore
was only able to see Teri. Katelyn
normal blood flow. She was in
had been in the Neonatal Intensive
the NICU for four days and un-
Care Unit (NICU) since she was born.
der constant supervision. It was
Doctors had diagnosed her with an
not long before her parents
irregular heartbeat. Even though she
could see the effect of the
weighed only 4 pounds, 3 ounces at
surgery; Katelyn was eat-
birth, a few days later tiny Katelyn had
ing with ease and steadily
dropped to 2 pounds.
gaining weight. She made
Photography BY ed kreiser
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 45
What If You Needed Blood? Would It Be Available?
Maybe...or Maybe NOT!
Special Ladies in Red
She enjoys dancing and singing and playing with her sister, Teri.
“Teri protects her sister,” Cyndi says, “she watches out for her.” Today, Cyndi sees the important role the American Heart Asso-
Every day there is a crisis in someone’s life, and because blood does not have an indefinite shelf life, supplies must be replenished regularly. The Shelf Life For Red Blood Cells Is Only 42 Days.
ciation plays in the lives of families like hers.
Even though 60% of the population is eligible to donate blood, less than 3% currently donate each year. Every day, someone needs blood. What if it’s someone in your family?
nization so that it can keep developing new cures; the 3D echo de-
“The American Heart Association makes people aware of the programs that are available and offers a support system for people with heart disease,” Cyndi adds. “We continue to support the orgatected what was wrong with Katelyn. She needed that and without research funding we would not have that type of equipment.”
How Often Can I Donate?
SAmi Boothe S
Whole blood can be donated every 8 weeks Who Needs Blood? Everyone has the potential to need blood at any given point in time. Statistics show that you will probably use blood sometime in your life.
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By Monique Stensrud Ami Boothe was born with several holes in her heart—a condition called an atrial septal defect. Now 35 years old, Ami was unaware of her heart condition for most of her life. It was not detected until she was 30 and after she had lived most of her
Knowing your family’s heart-health history and taking action are key to prevention and early detection. life unable to do many activities that children and young people love to do and sometimes take for granted. One of those is running. Today, she can easily go for a run, thanks to surgery that corrected the genetic defect. Now, a happier and healthier Ami has become an advocate for women and urges them to listen to their bodies and take control of their health. Ami had one of the major risk factors for heart disease: family history. Her mother suffers from it and her father passed away from a heart attack. Knowing your family’s heart-health history and taking action are key to prevention and early detection. Throughout her life Ami was not well, she suffered from serious asthma and her child-
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(661) 323-4222 • Toll-Free: 1-877-364-5844 46 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
It’s about the heart of a woman.
Special Issue Presented By
hood was plagued by heart murmurs. As a child, she had to take
gram revealed that not only did she have seven holes she had
medication to regulate her heart beat and could not enjoy many of
been unknowingly living with for most of her life, but that she
the simple pleasures most children can.
would need to undergo six hours of surgery to close the openings
“I could not keep up with my friends,” Ami notes. “Although I did not know it at the time, the hole in my heart was leaking and causing me to feel out of breath.” During a routine exam before an unrelated surgery, Ami’s doctors detected the condition that had caused her to live an unfulfilled life for 30 years: Ami had holes in her heart. An echocardio-
Crystal made her commitment to change her lifestyle with her husband, Kenn.
with a patch. With her heart stronger, she was able to recover quickly from the surgery. After just two and a half weeks, she was healed and noticed an immediate difference in how she felt. She no longer felt out of breath and her energy levels increased significantly. Ami feels better than she ever has and that has impacted the way she lives. She is able to enjoy life with her two daughters, Kylie and Emily. Once unable to jog, Ami now runs regularly and has a new, more energetic, outlook on life. Her message is simple but serious, “pay attention to your body. I feel so much better and I encourage women to go to their doctor if they suspect they have any kind of condition.” Especially if you have a family history of heart ailments. “You will feel better [once you know] and if they find something that can be fixed, like they did with me, you will not only improve your life but you will extend it.”
S Crystal McCloud S By Monique Stensrud Crystal McCloud made a commitment to her health in January 2008. It is a New Year’s resolution that many of us make, but few of us live up to. Crystal has lived up to it. Today, at 37, she is 94 pounds lighter, significantly more active, and much healthier than she was before she made that pact with herself. The reason? She has seen the effects of heart disease. Crystal made her commitment to change her lifestyle with her husband, Kenn. They had just had their son, Caden, and noticed that between work and their social commitments, they were making little time for their bodies. Crystal works in media sales and marketing for Clear Channel Radio where Kenn was a morning DJ for 22 years and recently became the operations manager. Then, their jobs required them to attend several media events and they were often working long hours. Crystal recalls often skipping breakfast and lunch and just having one large meal at night. “So many women do not realize that they are hurting their metabolism by eating this way,” Crystal notes. “I was not burning any calories.” One of the major changes she made was increasing the number of meals she was eating to six, and each of them had only 250 calories. She also started to make time for the gym. She set a goal to go three nights a week and met that goal.
>>
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 47
Special Ladies in Red “As parents, we have to make time for
plan social events around food but around
joyful time in a woman’s life was darkened
ourselves. Now that I workout, I find that I
an activity. They are active with their son
by the news that her blood pressure was
am more energetic. I am able to do all the
and instead of watching him play, they are
too high. With a long family history of high
things that I want to do and I am able to
right alongside him.
blood pressure and diabetes, Dr. McLean
keep up with my 3-year-old.” Had she not
“In a strange way, this is the best thing
also struggled with her weight most of her
taken steps to become more heart-healthy,
that could have happened to us,” Crystal
life. All of that added up to poor health. By
remaining so active with her young son
says. “We are healthier and Kenn’s heart is
the time she was 26 years old, Dr. McLean
might not be possible.
stronger than it has ever been.”
had been hospitalized for an entire week
Crystal and her husband were doing
Kenn has been involved with the Ameri-
after being diagnosed with extremely high
great with their resolutions. By August,
can Heart Association in many ways and
blood pressure. Additionally, she had been
she had already lost 50 pounds and Kenn
has shared his story at the Bakersfield
rushed to the hospital after experiencing
had lost 15 and was starting to show
Start! Heart Walk and Crystal is always by
more strength. That is when heart disease
his side. Crystal’s story, as well as Kenn’s,
changed their lives.
has been an inspiration for many people
On August 11, Kenn had a seizure at work. He had a heart valve that was leaking
They no longer plan social events around food but around an activity.
to pay more attention to their hearts, their health, and their quality of life.
SDr. Michelle McLean S By Belinda Hernandez When trying to describe Dr. Michelle McLean’s life, using the word “busy” is
and it had weakened his immune system.
an understatement. With six grandchildren
It was at this point, when his immune sys-
ranging from under a year old to 8 years of
tem was at its weakest, that he came in
age, and working as a principal for the Ba-
contact with a virus that attacked his ma-
kersfield School District, the working pro-
jor organs. By the time he started having
fessional, mother, wife, and grandmother
seizures, his liver and kidneys had been
has made a huge lifestyle change to better
significantly damaged.
her health and her outlook. Today, at 52
On August 19, Kenn had surgery to re-
years of age, she has lost 45 pounds since
pair the leaky valve that was the root of so
her weight loss journey began and feels
much damage, but because the virus had
better than ever.
been attacking his other organs, he still had
But her journey started young.
a lot of recovery to go. Kenn was kept se-
At the age of 17, Dr. McLean was expect-
dated until August 31. When he woke up,
ing her first daughter. What is normally a
he had no memory and his mentality was that of a 5-year-old. It took several weeks for Kenn to regain his memory and cognitive skills and start rehabilitation. Crystal and Caden were by his side every step of the way toward his recovery. He was determined to ski in January 2009 and he did. Today, Crystal and Kenn are living healthy lives with Caden. They no longer
48 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
It’s about the heart of a woman.
Special Issue Presented By
FRITCH EYE CARE Medical Center blurred vision, numbness, and had slurred
“I understand that, genetically, I am pre-
speech. Her doctor urged her to make
disposed to heart disease, however I also
changes and even then, the reality of her
know that the changes I have made have
health did not sink in. “I remember my doc-
improved my health tremendously.”
tor saying that, internally, I was already in my 40s,” she says. Finally, in 2007, her weight had sky-rocketed and an event occurred which would change her life forever. She recalls having a strong pain in her chest, something she
Dr. McLean has truly served as a role model in her community. She has even encouraged her coworkers to improve their health. “I’m in the best shape of my life,” she adds.
thought was heart burn, and was admitted into the hospital. At this point in her life, Dr.
SEstrella Castillo S
McLean had high blood pressure, high cho-
By Belinda Hernandez
lesterol, and was overweight. She had all of
Before Estralla “Star” Castillo was born,
the classic symptoms of someone who is
doctors told her parents that their unborn
at high risk for heart disease. Immediately
child would have a heart defect. Never in
“I remember my doctor saying that, internally, I was already in my 40s,” she says.
a million years would they have imagined
her doctors referred her to a cardiologist
Star had open heart surgery for a proce-
who, once again, told her that internally
dure called a Fontan, a surgical practice used
she was much older than her actual age.
in children with complex congenital heart de-
Although she did not have an actual heart
fects. Fortunately, Star had a fairly quick re-
attack, Dr. McLean was told that she would
covery. However, monthly visits to the doc-
indeed have a heart attack or a stroke if she
tor’s office became part of her childhood.
continued with her current lifestyle. That sobering news made her decision to lead a newer, healthier life easy. She had
that they would have to deal with a problem like this or that they would have to send fix her little heart when she was just two years old.
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Her memories as a child are still very vivid today when she describes wanting to be active but being unable to do so. “I would see kids running during P.E.,
grandkids. She had a career that she loved
and all I could do was watch. My job was
and wanted to be around to enjoy her life.
to keep tally of their laps.” She remembers
So Dr. McLean and her husband decided to
girls her age playing soccer and wanted
make a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
nothing more than to join a soccer team
They began eating nutritious, heart-healthy
herself. In fact, at the age of 13, she did just
foods and incorporated exercise. It’s a sim-
that. Against her doctor’s orders, Star tried
ple change that can do wonders.
out for a soccer team and got in. Her dream
Today, Dr. McLean still can’t believe the
of being a soccer player ended before it
level of energy she and her husband have,
could begin because her coach learned very
even after 35 years of marriage. She has
quickly of her heart condition.
bikes and golfing.
• Certified American Board of Ophthalmology
their daughter off for open heart surgery to
so much to live for: her husband, kids, and
continued to be physically active by riding
“Our Commitment, Your Sight for Life”
She never quite understood the severity of her heart condition but she was >>
In The Marketplace
9000 Ming Avenue, Suite L2
www.fritcheyecare.com
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 49
Special Ladies in Red
Go Red and Go Red For Women are trademarks of AHA. The Red Dress Design is a trademark of U.S. DHHS.
2010 Go Red Sponsorship National Sponsors Macy’s Merck
Survivor Gallery Sponsor
constantly reminded by the scar across her
Fortunately for Star, the 10 years after
chest, which had hindered so many things
the episode at church have been very sta-
she wanted to do as a youngster. At the
ble. At the age of 26, she has learned to
age of 16, Star wound up in the hospital,
live her life to the fullest and although her
once again, after complaining of shortness
physical activity has remained limited, she
of breath one evening in church. That day,
incorporates some types of low impact
doctors put her to sleep for nearly 10 hours
activity, like walking and swimming, and
She makes healthy lifestyle choices to make sure she keeps her heart as healthy as it can be.
makes healthy lifestyle choices to make
to analyze her condition. Her congenital
get through this be-
heart defect was, again, impacting her life.
cause of her loving
sure she keeps her heart as healthy as it can be. Star feels grateful and blessed to have such a strong support system and says that she’s been able to
Star woke up to a sore chest and an
husband Alex, her
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
aching, dry throat. Feeling fatigued and
parents, and her
Keynote Speaker Presenter
groggy, Star looked down at her chest and
siblings.
San Joaquin Community Hospital
Bronze Sponsor
Comprehensive Cardiovascular Medical Group
Loving Your Heart Sponsor HealthSouth Bakersfield Heart Hospital
Table Sponsors
PAS Associates Castle & Cooke Chevron Pair & Marotta Bakersfield Family Medical Center Blazey Accountancy Around the Clock Bakersfield Center for Women’s Health Reliable Moving KS Industries
confirmed that no additional scars marked
“For people
her chest, but did see markings from the
out there who
shocks she had received during the period
have experi-
when she was asleep. Although surgery
enced heart
was not needed, the doctors kept her at
disease at
the hospital for three days of observation.
a young age,
This time, unlike when she was two years
there are ways
old, she understood that something was
to cope. Sur-
wrong with her heart and she had many
rounding your-
questions for her family.
self with loved
Star wanted to know everything and her
ones and taking
parents, in tears, explained what they had
care of yourself
gone through when she underwent heart
is my advice,”
surgery as a toddler. Star could see the
Star says, with
worry in their eyes as they feared they
a smile on her
were going to relive the same experience.
face. n
Media Sponsors
Bakersfield Magazine KGET The Mize Agency American General Media Buckley Broadcasting Clear Channel Radio Sierra Printers 50 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
It’s about the heart of a woman.
A D V E RTO R I A L
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Early this year, Bakersfield Magazine sat down with Bakersfield Memorial Hospital’s Vice President of Business Development, Gary Frazier, to discuss the hospital’s mission for 2010.
BM: What will the refocusing entail? GF: The hospital really aims to reconnect with our community. Bakersfield is consistently changing and Memorial seeks to provide what people in this town need when they need it. There have been shifts in demographics and in city and county goals. We want to provide more than a state-of-the-art building where citizens receive medical treatment. We want to build a strong relationship with Bakersfield. We’ll do this by creating more community outreach programs and by reassessing our actions and activities, so that our choices reflect what is best for the community as a whole. Memorial doesn’t want to spend our time talking about the bells and whistles of our daily operations, we want to talk more with the people and the families we impact. We want to be involved in each of the lives in our area. BM: What programs have you already been a part of? GF: Along with Terrio Fitness, Memorial was a part of the OneTon Challenge. The program was a success, which is why we are now involved in the Five-Ton Challenge. While these are fun and exciting events, at the heart of the matter, we’re wanting to help people make healthier lifestyle choices and often times you do that through education. We’ll institute more classes for the public, including Lamaze, yoga, cooking classes, and we’ll increase the number of CPR and first aid classes. In this way, our staff will have more interaction with the community—they’ll hear directly from Bakersfield what this city needs and wants. Another way
we’ll open direct lines of communication is via new websites. These websites will be explicitly for patients to discuss their care with others, leave well wishes for current patients, and leave comments for our consideration. BM: What do you hope these programs will accomplish? GF: These programs are very people-centric. They’re not focused on the new technology we have, but rather how we’re using that new technology to help the people of Bakersfield and Kern County. We have what a hospital needs to best care for our community, but now we want to let them know we’re aiming to care for them on an individual basis by customizing our programs and our services to the specifications of the people in this Memorial doesn’t want to city. We want to be a spend our time talking about guide for the people the bells and whistles of our of Bakersfield and urge them to utilize daily operations, we want to our services on their talk more with the people and path to a healthier the families we impact. lifestyle.
“
“
Bakersfield Magazine: What would you say is Memorial Hospital’s mission in the coming year? Gary Frazier: Starting this year, and stretching into coming years, the hospital will be focusing on our origins and refocusing our philosophy. The hospital was born from the community in 1956 and we want that fact to drive our mission. People in this town got together and raised the funds to open the hospital with the goal of giving the community what it needed. Memorial was and still is a community hospital.
BM: Are there any other goals Memorial wishes to accomplish in the coming year? GF: In addition to reaching out to build community relationships, and with healthcare reform hanging over our heads, Memorial feels it’s essential for members of the medical community to come together as a team. That includes hospitals, physicians, and health plan providers. Memorial’s affiliation with GEMCare is one example. We have already laid the groundwork for direct communication and a closer working relationship between area physicians and the hospital. We’re planning programs and brainstorming with local doctors so that we can better provide care in the areas where people in Bakersfield need it. It’s the difference between bringing people to a hospital and bringing the hospital to thewww.bakersfieldmagazine.net people. / Bakersfield Magazine 51
52 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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59
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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 53
54 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
STARTS
POWERFUL Bakersfield Adult School student Grecia Alvarez was inspired after attending the Women’s Business Conference.
E
verything was absolutely
empowering, but at the
rez begins.
is a carefree attitude...it’s
amazing,” Grecia Alva-
same time, it’s fun. There
The 23-year-old Ba-
all very feminine.”
kersfield Adult School (BAS) student is still
excited about attending
Alvarez is finishing her
motivation & leadership
last year at BAS and will
be attending Bakersfield
last year’s phenomenal Women’s Business Conference.
College in the Fall, majoring in Business Administration.
surrounded by such powerful women...it was all thrilling.”
tion. It’s all about prioritizing. I’m looking forward to con-
have been positively impacted by the overwhelmingly
or human services.”
“Being able to hear such motivational speakers, being Alvarez is just one of many women in our area who
popular Options Unlimited Bakersfield Women’s Business
Conference. Now in its 21st year, the Conference aims to encourage and support women to reach for their dreams, both in business and in life.
“I learned how to manage my family life and my educa-
tinuing my education and ultimately working in education
Still, while there are lessons to be learned from the
many nationally-recognized speakers, so much of the conference aims toward empowerment.
“You walk out of the conference feeling like a star, your-
That includes young women just entering the workforce
self,” Alvarez adds, laughing. “You want to work harder
“I found out I was going on such short notice, but I’m
No doubt Alvarezes’ experience with the conference
in Bakersfield.
because you know you can achieve anything.”
glad I was able to attend,” Alvarez continues.
would put a smile on Graci Griebling’s face.
regularly utilizes tickets to the conference to bring young
more women in Bakersfield and Kern County the chance
She was given the opportunity through BAS, which
women who will truly benefit from the experience.
“As an attendee, you get to learn so much from the wom-
en who speak. They’ve got life lessons to share and tips
on how to be successful in anything you want to do. It’s
As this year’s conference chair, Griebling is hoping to give
to realize their goals—both professionally and personally. Her experience with the Confer-
ence goes back to 1990, where she
was a guest at the first conference. >>
W
Women & Business
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 55
Women & Business
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“I was thoroughly impressed with the event and the speakers,” she says. “The enthusiasm was contagious!” She’s not just saying that. Griebling has made it a point to try and attend every conference since that initial one two decades ago. “Each year you fall in love with [the conference] over and over again,” she elaborates. “You’re always making a new friend, discovering a new idea, or making a new connection.” And this year’s conference, with the theme of “The Power of You,” will be an important one to attend for women in all areas of business. “We are still in a downturn and we’re all working hard for the future,” Griebling explains. “This year, we’re going to be focusing on women entering the workplace and those making a career change. We want to really give them the spark to motivate themselves.” Hopefully that spark will turn into a connection with others, a drive to work hard, and also the desire to give back to a community that continues to be so friendly to women business owners. “We find that many of the women who attend are looking to help others [in their field],” she adds. That’s a big part of the draw for many women who continue to go year after year. Especially helpful are the break-out sessions, led
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Conference Chair Graci Griebling hopes this year’s conference will empower women from all walks of life.
by local professional women and men, on a wide array of subjects. “This year, topics will include women’s health issues, quality of life, and humor. Women definitely need to laugh during this time.” That humor, often times motivational humor, is delivered through some big names. This year’s keynote speaker, Joan Lunden, was the host of Good Morning America for over two decades, has published numerous books, and is currently the host of Lifetime Television’s Health Corner. Also appearing at this year’s conference are Cindy Solomon, who is an internationally-recognized speaker who encourages leaders, business owners, and individuals to find their courage; and DeLores Pressley, the founder of Born Successful Institute, who uses her 27 years of experience as an elementary school teacher to inspire people to reach their potential. Also new this year is a focus on Generation Y. “There is a younger generation of women entering the workforce, so we want to address that. So whether they’re young or 56 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
The Conferences have helped Melissa Jolley grow her home business and manage a large family simultaneously.
young at heart, this conference will address their needs. “We want women to walk away being refreshed and ready to take on the world,” Griebling continues. “But we want them to be able to handle not just a career but their family lives, as well. Women wear a lot of hats.” And wearing a lot of hats is something Melissa Jolley knows a lot about. As a wife, home business owner, and mother of eight, she frequently has her hands full. So it’s no surprise she values attending the Conference. “I was given a ticket to attend five years ago,” she explains. At the time, Jolley was working as a florist and was very interested in starting her own floral business, primarily for weddings. “Being self-employed is the hardest thing I can think of. The ability to balance time between work and your children is very difficult.” Still, after the inspiration Jolley received at her first conference, she was beginning to feel self-employment was the best way for her to go. So after working as a florist for both grocery stores and funeral homes, Jolley embarked on her journey by opening Four Seasons Floral & Design. It’s been nearly three years since she began her home operations and she is starting to see the rewards. “Each time I attend a conference, I come away with something new,” she elaborates. She takes that new information and applies it to her business model. “I meet other people who are in my field or who are in the same place I was when I
first started. It feels wonderful not only to get good advice from fellow women, but to be able to pass along what I’ve learned so far.” For Jolley, the excitement of connecting with others and networking keeps her coming back. She insists the conferences are a valuable tool for any woman in any business. She’ll continue to attend because she’s looking for something only the Women’s Business Conference can give her: a guide to harmony. “I’m looking to find harmony, and that healthy balance in my business and with my family,” she says. And since many of the break-out sessions help women do just that, it’s a perfect setting for Jolley. “What I’ve learned is that it’s important to keep humor in your life, keep a positive perspective, and realize [your potential].” Jolley has even gained clients at the Conferences. While she primarily keeps her weekends full through word of mouth, she’s also made friends in high places just by attending, who keep her busy with corporate meetings and luncheons. Through it all, she’s gained the confidence to run her business the way she wants to, while still being able to be the mom she wants to be. That’s exactly what the Conference set out to do from the beginning. Ultimately, women are encouraged to use the power they have to bring about the change they want to see in their career and in their lives. “Women have been making waves each and every generation,” Graci Griebling says. “They have the keys to their own success. Sometimes, they just need to be reminded of that fact.”
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THE SECRET LIVES Sherry Wade, alligator hat in tow, debunks ‘scary’ librarian stereotypes.
no duds here
N
o horn-rimmed spectacles are perched on Sherry Wade’s nose. And her shoulder-length bob haircut
certainly wouldn’t pull into a tight bun very eas-
ily. Her light gray suit is nothing short of business professional.
If someone was trying to determine if Wade fits the of-
ten-used description of a librarian, they’d already have three strikes against them.
Yet Wade is a librarian, and has been for the past 30 years.
She’s not a spinster, she’s never been one to own multiple cats at the same time, and she doesn’t sit behind a large desk all day shushing everyone who passes.
Even if she wanted to ask someone to be quiet, she wouldn’t
have the time.
But most people assume those are the common character-
istics of the librarian; the bun, the glasses, the finger to the lips—it’s the image so easily conjured up about this misunderstood, secretive species.
These are antiquated stereotypes that women like Wade are
changing. Because taking one look at this woman would be
enough to dispel the myth of the stuffy, soured old librarian once and for all. She’s quirky, tells great jokes, and loves any excuse to show off the toys she procures for the Kern County Library as their youth services coordinator.
58 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
“I supervise the 18 and under programs for all 25 branches,” Wade continues, “as well as overseeing the county’s two bookmobiles.” Stationed at Beale Memorial Library, she’s in charge of creating summer reading programs, approving new titles for the county’s many book shelves, and scheduling story times. A recent program’s theme centered around water and the animals who call water home. It gave her an excuse to invest in some new headgear. “Where would a grown woman get to wear an alligator hat at work?” asks Wade. Where indeed? “It was only a few dollars and the money came out of my own pocket, but if it can help a child get excited about books, how could I not?” That’s just the personality of most librarians today, Wade explains. “We’re not antiquated or mean,” she says, laughing. “But that stereotype must have come from somewhere, right?” And jokes? She’s heard ‘em all. “I get friends of mine saying ‘How can you be a librarian? You’re not quiet!’ I don’t know what being quiet has to do with being a librarian,” Wade says, shrugging her shoulders. Still, the teasing doesn’t get to her. She’s having too much fun helping people find the information they need to worry about stereotypes. “Librarians, by trade, are naturally nosy and curious. That’s why we went into the profession in the first place. We love to research!” As if she didn’t have enough to do at Beale, Wade plays the organ, the hammered dulcimer, gives piano lessons, acts in plays with her family, and directs her church’s choir. She also has her own wheat grinder so she can make her own bread. That’s right, a librarian with a wheat grinder. Then, in her spare time (yeah, right), she teaches cooking classes to young men, leads a book club, and stretches her fins as a water safety instructor. Nothing about her life, sans the book club, matches with any assumptions about cranky old librarians of our imaginations. The conclusion is the same when you talk with Brenda Scobey. A librarian for over 30 years, Scobey, too, does not fit the profile. Her fun, vibrant clothing alone breaks the mold. “I really didn’t choose to become a librarian, it chose me,” she says, smiling. Scobey is quick to smile and even quicker to laugh. You can bet there’s not a piece of tweed clothing in her closet. As a youngster in New Orleans, Scobey found herself in the library at her school before class would start, primarily because she didn’t want to be waiting outside in the rain. “After a while, the librarians noticed me and put me to work. They said, ‘she knows her alphabet, let’s have her put books in order.’ That was that,” Scobey explains. You could say her career began then. After attending Dillard University and later receiving her degree in Information Sci-
OF
librarians
ence from Atlanta University, she worked in Baltimore at the prestigious Enoch Pratt Library before coming to Bakersfield in 1977. Today, as the head of the Reference Department at Beale, Scobey loves helping people, especially children. For a while, she was working as a librarian in Children’s Services. Her job took her to schools, where she presented at assemblies and encouraged kids to visit local libraries where a world of information was at their fingertips. “I love turning kids on to reading,” she says. “That’s why outreach is so important.” Scobey gets jazzed just talking about research, let alone performing it. “Give me a question and we’ll find the answer together,” she adds, excitedly, her hands in the air. Outside the walls of the library, Scobey finds herself cooking creole like a pro, working towards her masters’ degree, and traveling...mainly via ship. “I love to take cruises,” she explains. “I’ve traveled all over the U.S., and I’ve taken the traditional cruise to Mexico, but what I’ve got my sight set on now is the Mediterranean.” Her eyes practically sparkle at the thought. And don’t think her pursuits center around herself. “My sister married a pastor and some of the children at his church were in need of a Sunday School Teacher,” she explains of another interest. Look no further. Scobey now mentors the group of junior high students by exposing them to the world and teaching them about the power of information. “I’ve already taken them to museums, but I want to take them to the Getty,” she says of a future trip. “You can actually see children absorbing knowledge and it is amazing to be a part of that.” Stereotype busted...we’re zero for two. The third contender doesn’t seem to invite any parallels with the librarians of legend either. Maria Rutledge, petite and sweet, may be the quietest of the bunch, but she’s not about to deny someone the right to read because they’re talking in a library. Since 1998, Rutledge has been with the Kern County Library, and since October of 2009, has been the supervisor at the Southwest Branch on Ming Avenue. She, too, seems bemused as to why librarians continue to get assigned a fuddy-duddy reputation. “Sure, the core of what a librarian does is the same as it always has been, but our methods are so different today,” she says. And it’s not as if you can walk into the library and demand a position right out of high school. There’s six extra years of education to be had in research techniques. The appeal was there for Rutledge, who began her higher education in chemistry. “I got a job as a library assistant at the medical library at Kern Medical Center,” she explains. >>
( OH MY)
The only “shush” we got from Brenda Scobey was a playful one.
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Women & Business www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 59
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60 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Women & Business That sparked something in her. She thought to combine her interests and become a medical-pharmaceutical librarian. Later, she shifted focus and received her master’s in library and information science. “There’s a misconception that all we like to do is read,” she says, laughing. “But in reality, it’s so hard to find the A cat-less librarian? Yep, Maria Rutledge time to read. Anyproves us all wrong. more, if I have to put a book down, I never get back to it.” Her days are so jammed with helping people find the information and books they need, she hardly sits down. Her office is proof of that, where a pile of books sits unread, waiting for her. At home, her time is spent in the kitchen, in the garden, and out on the town with friends. But none of her time is spent with cats. “I don’t have a cat,” she says, laughing. Well, she can’t be a true librarian then. “It’s a professional occupation, so there is a lot of pride in the career, and it’s never boring. It’s hardly Librarian Goal #1: quiet.” Engage the minds of even the tiny Especially around library patrons, children. That’s why like Job Higgins. Rutledge is so excited to help bring a nursery rhyme program known as “Mother Goose on the Loose,” to the libraries here. “Not only will there be interactive programs with sounds, songs, and movement, but we’ll have information sessions at the end for parents. That’s what the library is here for...they’re beneficial to the community on so many levels.” Libraries are certainly not looking to quiet the community, so why would a librarian? Their lives are not boring yet we seem to think they should be; their real job description is nothing like we thought. Maybe that’s just because their identities have been kept a secret for so long. The secret’s out now.
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Think you know what’s on her mind? Probably not. You may get a different answer every day. Or no answer at all!
Name: Scarlett Sabin tell...44 Age: OK, only if I have to nager Ma ofit npr No : Occupation o was it? had your first crush? Wh you en wh How old were you I was a pre-teen. en wh ‘70s the in y sid un Cas OMG…let me think. Sha l Away” by Styx. g in junior high? “Come Sai What was your theme son se. Then I when you grew up? A nur What did you want to be fore getting Be ch. mu s or science that decided I didn’t like needle e aus bec ail ret in rld I was into the not for profit wo ve where I am. Now I would NEVER lea ch. mu so ple peo d like I I have the dream job. Not really, I still love d in music and movies? Have your tastes change am such a child of I say I en wh just laughs the ‘80s! My son Matthew e in my life. reminds me of a simpler tim the ‘80s. I think the music space? into you h have to take wit Name three things you’d is my girly side). re (the et cel bra rm Cha ghton Blackberry, Lip balm, Bri ut what the abo eo vid on YouTube? The What’s your favorite video ily. fam a to meant Ronald McDonald House wing up? r wall when you were gro Whose poster was on you o. Bai tt y, and Sco Hardy Boys, Shaun Cassid a relationship? ’ve ever said to get out of you g thin t bes the at’s Wh ember what I rem can ely bar I ’t. ally I don I really don’t remember...re had for lunch yesterday. Romance is out on romance? Is it dead? What are your thoughts our hectic, etimes we get so busy in there…unfortunately som it! for e tim ke it. You must ma fast-paced lives we ignore
Scarlett
Name: Evita Frost Age: 24 Occupation: Safety Consultant
Evita
girltalk
women think what
What are your thoughts on romance? Is it dead? I am living my thoughts on romance. I have the best husband in the world. He knocks me off my feet, he adores me, he puts me first, and he is always doing something to make me happy. Have your tastes changed in music and movies? Music, yes. My husband got me into country, and that’s all I listen to. Movies, no. I still can’t watch scary movies (I freak out). What do you love most about men? Their confidence. What do you like least about men? Their ignorance. When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: Never. If you found yourself in a box of chocolates, would you be a “Nuts & Chews” or “CreamFilled?” Cream-Filled. Whose poster was on your wall when you were growing up? New Kids on the Block. What’s the best thing you’ve ever said to get out of a relationship? “My parents won’t let me date.” What’s your ideal night out? Dinner with my husband and kids. I really enjoy their company. When you shop, do you go in with a list or do you have to look at everything? I usually have a list.
“ Maybe” means...not a bloody
chance in the pit of Hades –Christina Martinez Name: Christina Martinez Age: “30 Something” Occupation: Radio Personality How old were you when you had your first crush? Who was it? I was 10 years old and it was Scott Baio. I loved Chachi! What was your theme song in junior high? Pat Benatar’s “Love is a Battlefield.” What did you want to be when you grew up? A Soap Opera actress! I use to want to have Ashley Abbott’s role on The Young and the Restless. I swore that was my destiny! Have your tastes changed in music and movies? In music, no. Movies, yes. They’re naughtier! (Just kidding.) Name three things you’d have to take with you into space? My family, TV, and DVR. I can’t be without Bravo’s Real Housewives! Love the drama! What’s your favorite video on YouTube? Evian babies commercials. When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: Not a bloody chance in the pit of Hades! Say it to yourself in an Irish accent. What do you love most about men? They’re men. What do you like least about men? See answer above. If you only had one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what would it be? Etta James’ “At Last.”
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Women & Business
Christina
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 61
62 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Women & Business Name: Laura Dawn Smith Age: 41 Occupation: Ophthalmology Technician What are your thoughts on romance? Is it dead? In my mind, never! What was your theme song in junior high? “Do You Want To Touch,” by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. What did you want to be when you grew up? I knew I wanted to be in the medical field. Have your tastes changed in music and movies? In some ways, they have. I loved the music that made the memories I have today. When you’re with your friends driving down the road, laughing, and saying to one another “Oh my god, remember this song?” As far as movies, I still love the old ones. You can never forget the Brat Pack, and to see history repeat itself. Most embarrassing thing to happen to you on a date: I missed a step and literally fell on my face. Not kidding. I was face down and bottom up! What’s your favorite video on YouTube? Oh, of course, the lady trying to pole dance for her husband who falls and hits her head on the table. Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Drop that zero and get with this hero,” or “Must be jelly because jam don’t shake like that.” When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: More then likely, not. Whose poster was on your wall when you were growing up? Matt Dillon. What’s the best thing you’ve ever said to get out of a relationship? “There is not enough room for me, you, and Sancha (his lover).”
Laura Pamela
Worst pick-up line? You’re not the most attractive woman in here, but you’re the only one sitting next to me.
Name: Ruscel Reader Age: 59 Occupation: Principal How old were you when you had your first crush? Who was it? I was either 11 or 12 years old. It was back in the early 1960s...he was tall, a year older than me, and the drum major in what was then the Lincoln Junior High School band. I believe his name was Sam. Did you ever get away with anything as a teen? Is it something your parents still don’t know about? No. My parents, especially my mom, must have had eyes in the back of their heads. My mom knew everything! In our family, we shared everything...our hopes, our dreams, our aspirations, disappointments, and successes. There were no secrets. What was your theme song in junior high? “It’s My Party,” by Leslie Gore. During the summer, and sometimes during weekends, I would get together with my friends in the neighborhood and have parties in our backyards. We would play Leslie Gore’s record and dance the Cha Cha. My mom would serve us homemade ice cream and goodies. Were you a tomboy or a girly girl growing up? Has anything changed? I played tetherball, basketball, and baseball at school. I am still a tomboy. I love to play racquetball! I climbed trees and fences and rode my bicycle at home as a child and am an avid sports fan. What did you want to be when you grew up? After I received the Actress of the Year Award for my performance at an Emerson Junior High School play, I decided that I wanted to become an actress. My parents indulged me and permitted me to take piano and singing lessons. Later, I learned my talent was working with children. I became a teacher, a counselor, and a school administrator...and I love it. What’s your favorite video on YouTube? Susan Boyle’s “I Dreamed a Dream.”
–Makayla Crenshaw
Makayla
Name: Makayla Crenshaw Age: 27 -mom Occupation: Stay-at-home you had your first crush? How old were you when t rs old when I had my firs yea 12 s Who was it? I wa I ber em rem I es. Am ntin crush. His name was Que an ar around my neck with had a locket I used to we lly rea ld cou you all in it. So over-sized picture of him e. nos and s eye see of his face was his have to take with you into Name three things you’d ting pad, and music. space? Peanut butter, wri on YouTube? “Husband eo vid e orit What’s your fav scares wife with gun.” ever heard: ”You’re not Worst pick-up line you’ve n in here, but you’re the the most attractive woma .” me to t only one sitting nex e,” she really means: ayb “m s say n ma wo When a e the heart to say it. hav t sn’ No! But she just doe ut men? Wow. I got What do you love most abo at? wh nothing. Is that sad or ut men? I love their ability What do you like least abo n can feel they have me to over-simplify things. Wo
Ruscel t deal with and a man will jus the biggest crisis ever to of out g win gro ing someth stare at us like we have a our forehead. a ’ve ever said to get out of What’s the best thing you ” gy. clin too relationship? “You’re with any celebrity, who If you could go on a date nning Tatum and for purely would it be and why? Cha a major hottie. superficial reasons. He’s know? No tattoos. I almost Any tattoos? Does Mom k, but could really never got one a few years bac t be sure to like for the res decide on something I’d of my life. ob? And why? I’m going Team Edward or Team Jac ob. Have you seen him? Jac m to have to go with Tea ng , sensitive side to him; alo Plus, he’s got that caring g. thin to’ had I if out you with that ‘I could knock romance? Is it dead? I’m not What are your thoughts on think romance takes effort sure it was ever alive. I just that much thought into it. and most people don’t put
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 63
Name: Nancy Ballinger Age: 39 or, Occupation: Traffic Direct Broadcasting you had How old were you when s it? wa o Wh sh? cru t your firs nding I was 8 years old and atte ool in Sch Day ntry Cou i Cincinnat maddest Cincinnati, Ohio. I had the the time, crush on Paul Brown. At local ily’s fam his lize rea n’t did I realized I r, late rs yea notoriety, but family that wn Bro the re we y the t tha gals. Boy owns the Cincinnati Ben ! ‘em k pic can I something h anything as a teen? Is it wit ay aw get r eve you Did was going and so or 15 s w about? I wa your parents still don’t kno ited one of the tate New York and had inv to boarding school in ups for Thanksgiving me h wit ts to come home German exchange studen flight from We missed our connecting so she wouldn’t be alone. el room that hot the in y re supposed to sta Boston to Cincinnati so we he had been able il the next morning, when my dad booked for us unt and walked all out Yeah, right! We went to get us on a flight home. at all kinds of ng ppi sto ht, nig hours of the over Boston until ungodly so much fun! had just milling around. We a blast. restaurants and shops and had we but ous ger ly a little dan In retrospect it was probab e... My parents still have no clu , you’re so fine, in junior high?“Oh Mickey g son me What was your the ta love Toni mind. Hey Mickey!” You got you’re so fine you blow my But, it worked. n! ma wo wn r outfit as a gro Basil sporting a cheerleade
Nancy
n n n n
Name: Sandy McMahan Age: 57 Occupation: Speech and Language Pathologist, Assessment Did you ever get away with anything as a teen? I got away with a lot of things as a teen my parents still don’t know about. I also got caught doing many things, so I don’t think my parents could’ve handled finding out about everything. Were you a tomboy or a girly girl growing up? Has anything changed? I was both a tomboy and a girly girl growing up, as I easily shifted into each role as the situation required. As I’m older, and wiser, the tomboy daredevil side of me has subsided somewhat. What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a civil engineer and build bridges. Most embarrassing thing to happen to you on a date: I walked away from the car and the back of my dress was caught in the door. It ripped the back of the dress off and I was humiliated while trying to get back in the car as fast as I could without exposing myself. What are your thoughts on romance? Is it dead? I don’t think romance is dead, but it seems to be dying a slow death. In such a fast-paced, multi-tasking society, no one seems to take the time to do romantic things. You have to really work at keeping romance alive, especially with those you love the most! When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: She hasn’t made up her mind yet...maybe yes and maybe no.
Sandy
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Women & Business
Pamela
Name: Pamela Van Horn Age: 38 Occupation: Pharmaceutical Representative What was your theme song in junior high? “Call Me” by Blondie. I was always on the dang phone. The funny thing is, if you know me now, you know that I hate talking on the phone. Text me...it’s more convenient! What did you want to be when you grew up? Didn’t really have anything specific in mind, but I do remember my mom leaving for work in the morning as a manager at Mercy Hospital dressed very professionally. I always knew that whatever it was that I did, I wanted a respected professional position. Have your tastes changed in music and movies? Not really. I still love to listen to Neil Diamond from back in the day when my mom used to listen to him while cleaning on Saturday mornings. On the other hand, there is nothing better than being in the car with my three kids singing their favorite songs at the tops of our lungs. In my iPod I have anything from ABBA to Lil Wayne. Most embarrassing thing to happen to you on a date: Much too embarrassing to say! I will say it took place after a birthday dinner at Valentien. Team Edward or Team Jacob? And why? Definately Jacob. He’s strong, athletic, protective, and yummy. Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: Well, it’s not really a pick-up line, but I had a guy ask me out on a date just after he had finished telling me that he was unemployed and times were tough.
I had a guy ask me out on a date just after he had finished telling me that he was unemployed and times were tough. –Pamela Van Horn Name: Diane White Age: 55 Occupation: Tax Manager How old were you when you had your first crush? Who was it? I was 4. It has been a life-long love of Mickey Mouse. Did you ever get away with anything as a teen? I never got away with anything. I have a younger brother who ratted me out on everything I did or even thought about doing. What was your theme song in junior high? The love theme from Romeo and Juliet. Were you a tomboy or a girly girl growing up? Has anything changed? I was a girly girl. Nothing has changed except maybe the quantity of shoes, jewelry, purses, makeup, etc. It is all about the accessories. What’s your favorite video on YouTube? Ron Saylor (our own local magician) performing in “Bar Magic Card Trick.” Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Have we met before?” You remember- don’t you? When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: Until I get a better offer. If you only had one song to listen to for the rest of your life, what would it be? “The Mickey Mouse Club March.” What are your thoughts on romance? Is it dead? Romance should be part of everyone’s daily life. It is not dead! Romance is not just flowers, candy, etc., it’s how you treat one another. Romance is in our thoughts and actions. What did you want to be when you grew up? At first, I wanted to be a princess, then a dancer (remember Lawrence Welk—the women all wore pretty dresses) and finally settled on accounting while I was in high school.
Diane
Name: Barbara Lawrence Age: 71 Occupation: Volunteer Coo rdinator Were you a tomboy or a girly girl growing up? Has anything changed? Definitely a girly girl and nothing has changed! What did you want to be when you grew up? I alw ays wanted to work in the medical field. Have your taste changed in music and movies? No , I seem to have always loved Gospel. Name three things you’d have to take with you into space? Photos of my grandchildren and gre at-grandchildren, my Bib le, and, of course, lip balm! Most embarrassing thin g to happen to you on a date: I was sitting across from him and the chair I was in broke and I fell with it! Worst pick-up line you’ve eve r heard: “Hi babe, what are you doing tonight?” What do you love most abo ut men? I love their consid eration of women. What do you like least abo ut men? How some men treat other women. What’s the best thing you ’ve ever said to get out of a relation ship? “Sorry, but I cannot see you anymore.” What’s your ideal night out ? Playing Spinner Domino es. Team Edward or Team Jac ob? I don’t watch those silly movies. If you could travel anywh ere, where would it be and wh y? To Oklahoma and to Texas to see my grandchildren and gre atgrandchildren.
Barbara www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 65
Women & Business Name: Lili Marsh Age: My responses will most likely reveal that! Occupation: Operations & Catering Manager What was your theme song in junior high? Wow! I can’t remember back to those covered wagon days. But it would have been something by The Guess Who or Three Dog Night. Were you a tomboy or a girly girl growing up? Has anything changed? I’m definitely not a “don’t break a nail” kind of gal and I love being outdoors—so whatever that makes me! What did you want to be when you grew up? Growing up on the end of Long Island, I always felt marine biology was my destiny! Have your tastes changed in music and movies? It is, and always has been about music...all genres! You haven’t lived until you have experienced Neal Schoen’s rendition of the National Anthem—either live or at 50 million decibels in your car! Most embarrassing thing to happen to you on a date: I fell into a deep sleep during 2001: A Space Odyssey. Well, it was the most boring movie ever! Needless to say, first and last date. If you found yourself in a box of chocolates, would you be a “Nuts & Chews” or “Cream-Filled?” Nuts & Chews, Chews & Nuts, with a side of peanut M & M’s, Chocolatey Paydays, and Hershey’s Kisses. What’s your idea night out? Front row at a concert or football game. Team Edward or Team Jacob? And why? Huh?
Lili
I do not date, I fish. I hook ‘em, I reel ‘em, and I throw ‘em back! –Jolie Brouttier
Name: Jolie Brouttier Age: 21 Occupation: Supervision Aide/Substitute Teacher Most embarrassing thing to happen to you on a date: I do not date, I fish. I hook ‘em, I reel ‘em, and I throw ‘em back! What’s your favorite video on YouTube? Me skydiving and bungee jumping. Worst pick-up line you’ve ever heard: “Is your daddy an astronaut? Because you are a star in my eyes.” What was your theme song in junior high? Gwen Stefani’s “Hollerback Girl.” I can remember feeling so cool because I knew the expletive she used and when singing along in the car with my mom, I would yell it out and she could never (but did) get mad at me. When a woman says “maybe,” she really means: You are the ugliest boy, you have bad breath, balding hair, and acute acne, and because of this, I would hate to lower your self esteem any more (if that is even possible) by saying “no,” so I will just say “maybe.” What do you like least about men? The brain they don’t ever use. Whose poster was on your wall when you were growing up? Leonardo DiCaprio. My door was all Leo and nothing else, for he was the “king of my world.” What’s the best thing you’ve ever said to get out of a relationship? “Did you just utter your ex’s name instead of mine?”
Jolie
66 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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SW 99s
HIGH FLYIN
By Matthew Martz
T
he sky is not the limit for
are professional pilots,
this group of Bakersfield
flight instructors, tech-
women; it’s only the be-
the Ninety-Nines first elected President Ame-
nicians, mechanics, and
Longtime Ninety-Niner Joan Paynter in the mid-’70s.
ginning. Flying for the fun of it may have been
I
hobbyists.
WOMEN KNOW NO LIMITS
The Bakersfield chapter
winged its way into exis-
tence in 1947; a time when
lia Earhart’s motto, but the 29 members of the Bakersfield
minorities and women were breaking down social con-
than just taking flight to being part of the largest organiza-
cal advancements in aviation. Jackie Robinson played his
chapter of Southwest Ninety-Nines say there’s a lot more tion of women aviators in the world.
“I think one of the more unique facets about our chapter
is all of the women that have belonged to the organization throughout the chapter’s 60-year history,” said Dee Blum, current chapter chairwoman.
“To realize what each one of these ladies has accom-
plished, the antipathy they endured, and all of the significant contributions they have made to the world of aviation,” add-
straints and the postwar boom was creating new technologifirst game as a Brooklyn Dodger, becoming the first African-
American player in major league baseball of the modern era, while Charles Yeager set the first official record of a manned supersonic flight. The Kern Philharmonic Society presented its first concert, Garces High School was opened, and 11
women from Bakersfield were pushing social boundaries in an effort to train women who really wanted to fly.
Since then Bakersfield has had its share of historical avia-
ed Blum, 65, a pilot for nearly three decades and a member
trixes. Among those were Achsa Donnels and Eynor Rud-
Founded in 1929, the Ninety-Nines received its name
well as Maude Oldershaw. Donnels was the first woman in
of the Bakersfield Ninety-Nines for almost as long.
when 99 of the then 117 licensed female pilots in the United
States set out to establish an organization to encourage other women to fly and to remove prejudicial obstacles to female
pilots achieving their goals. It has since grown to over 5,000 members spanning 36 countries, and includes females that
nick both original charter members of the Ninety-Nines as California to hold a Transport Pilot’s license and also re-
ceived the third Catherine B. Wright Memorial Award for her efforts in the advancement of aviation. Rudnick spearheaded the development of the Bakersfield >>
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Women & Business
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Women & Business photo provided by Joan Paynter
Airpark, became one of the While the love of flying and the world’s first female helicopter pifreedom that comes with being in lots, and, in 1947, trained a continthe air are commonalities linking gent of student pilots that would the Ninety-Nines, the aircraft they be responsible for tipping the milfly are as diverse as the women piitary balance of power in favor of lots themselves. Israel during the 1948 War of In“The variety we have is terrific. dependence. Oldershaw assisted We all come from totally differin the development and was the ent backgrounds, but we can talk first woman to fly the Gossamer about what we love—flying,” Condor, the world’s first successPaynter said with a smile. ful human-piloted aircraft. The These Bakersfield women are aircraft won the Kremer Award housewives, teachers, entrepreon August 23, 1977 and is now neurs, flight instructors, commerdisplayed in the Smithsonian’s cial pilots, and flight examiners. Air and Space Museum. After The latter group includes DonBehold the women of the mid-70’s Ninety-Nines: bad fashion, great flying! her flight, it was reported that she na Webster, 43, who is one of stated, “It was no longer a man-powered “I can remember getting prepared to make the younger members of the Bakersfield aircraft; it was a female-powered aircraft.” my first commercial flight,” Sullivan added. Ninety-Nines, and the only female flight Janice Sullivan, 61, has been involved “My male co-pilot told me politely to come examiner ever in Kern County. with the Ninety-Nines since 1970, and in ad- in, sit down, and don’t touch anything.” “The organization offers a wide variety dition to being a charter pilot, flight instrucThese prejudices continued well into of opportunities for advancing one’s flytor, and air racer, was presented the Harmon the latter part of the century. Blum recalls ing skills and proficiency ratings, as well Trophy in 1980 by former President Ronald an airport fuel attendant telling her that he as providing networking and socializing,” Regan for her work as the official project would need the pilot’s permission to refuel said Webster. “All pilots go through learnpilot on the Solar Challenger—the first so- her aircraft in the mid-1990s. ing curves, and sometimes it’s nice to have lar-powered aircraft. Weighing in at slightly But with a “can-do” attitude these wom- other women to talk to and to share your less than 100 pounds, Sullivan was chosen en have flown thousands of feet up in the frustrations and triumphs.” because of a stringent weight requirement air, through the clouds; a lifetime thrill “The purpose of the Ninety-Nines is to to safely keep the craft aloft. She promote aviation, especially to flew over 40 test flights before women. We want to help fellow flying a public demonstration of and perspective female pilots, the aircraft at NASA’s Dryden mentor them, encourage them,” Flight Research Center, in Paynter added proudly. “Our which she traveled roughly two main reason for being is to enmiles in a little over 14 minutes courage new female pilots.” on August 7, 1980. These extraordinary ladies have Despite the contributions they faced many adversities, from diswould make to aviation, these crimination to intimidation, and women of the early twentieth have made a significant impact century often encountered harsh on future generations of women. acts of discrimination during an They are heroes in our midst, era when the concept of a woman who have the passion, integrity, flying did not abide by the tradiand persistence to make a stand tional ideals of women’s roles of for something they believe in and the time. From the Wright brothinspire the rest of us to think that ers’ first flight in 1903, women we, too, can make a difference. Some members of the current crew: (l-r) Janice Sullivan, Elaine LeCain, Brianna Moore, Dee Blum were just as driven to fly as men. “I think the women of the With the ever-changing gender roles, that can never be forgotten or duplicated. world today have a lot more confidence women would need to overcome great ob“That feeling, the experience never leaves than we did in our day,” said Paynter. stacles for their place in the sky. “Hopefully we helped to shape that.” the fiber of your soul,” said Joan Paynter, “It was a different world back then,” 80, an air racer and charter pilot for over “Things have really changed,” agreed said Marianne Laxague, 65, a former 20 years. “My solo was so exciting because Blum. “You are seeing more and more corporate pilot and active member of I realized my lack of self confidence was women taking the controls inside the the Ninety-Nines since 1964. “When now gone. I felt reborn.” cockpit, and that is getting really exciting. we used to fly into Mexico we had to be “It is one of your best experiences, be- Today you can be on an aircraft where accompanied by a male co-pilot to gain ing up there alone, knowing you gained the everyone from the pilot to the clearance to fly over the border.” flight attendant is a woman.” knowledge to do so,” Blum added. 68 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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WEB
WOMEN ON THE By Allison Aubin
B
efore the Internet, no one could have predicted
how it would
have
revolu-
From
instant
tionized our daily
lives.
communication to that sinking
feeling
that
your party photos just reached a wider audi-
ence than you thought, or the ability to pur-
chase anything from your own home, the
easily forgotten due-dates. Local moms Christy Baker (left) and Jennifer Scheidle founded Smartyrents.com.
MOMS GET GEEKY
But for parents who want to steer their children to-
ward educational consoles
like the Leap Frog and
Internet has made it more convenient to run a variety
Vtech systems, no site has maintained the same subscription
mail-order, and running a physical recurring service are
“We try to save time for the customers, going to buy a thirty
of businesses and especially, to start your own. Blogs,
style for educational games. Enter Smartyrents.com.
all ways to support yourself or supplement your income.
dollar game [only to discover] the next week their child is
net helps them be stay-at-home moms, carve out unique
Smartyrents.com was conjured up by two teachers who
These Kern County women have found that the Inter-
bored with it,” Christy Baker, co-creator of the site, said.
niches, and help other people all without the inflexibility
had left or were in the process of leaving the workforce
Smartyrents.com
nifer Scheidle met in the classroom, teaching at the same
of a nine-to-fiver.
The Internet has helped mail-order businesses and cre-
ated new systems of rentals so that customers no longer
have to spend the gas and $5 to rent a single movie or ex-
pensive game. Sites like Gamefly, that rent to a variety of
entertainment consoles, allow customers to try out costly games without buyer’s remorse (or renter’s remorse) with
to spend time with their growing families. Baker and Jenschool. When Baker left to have her first son, she and
Scheidle were still interested in working together. One
day Baker, whose son had a Leapshare, wondered why she couldn’t rent the expensive games.
Smartyrents.com goes the extra
step above the normal rental >>
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Women & Business
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Women & Business service. Instead of just offering Saveathomemommy.com games to rent on a wide variety Kerri Scarlett said she always of educational consoles, Scheidle wanted a box of dishwasher tabs, and Baker review each game for but could never justify the cost over 150 skills. It means parents to herself. She began collecting who want their kids to get an coupons and one day realized she early start on addition can search could use enough coupons to bring for those games, and parents who the cost of a box of dishwasher want to be sure their child won’t tabs down to fifty cents. get frustrated with a game outHer blog, Saveathomemommy. side their skill or age level can com, began as a way to share stories find each game comprehensively and pictures with family members evaluated. It allows parents to ensure the game will be at the apCoupons have helped Kerri Scarlett make a propriate level for their children, name for herself online. rather than discovering a game is outside a child’s age or skill range after the package is opened and non-returnable. The business didn’t spring into being overnight. Baker and Need caption info in this area. Need caption info in this area. Scheidle discussed other business ideas before Baker’s epiphany. is subsidized by the rental fees. Some Both wanted to have a flexible business games have a “Love It” price that is highthat allowed them to spend time with er than normal because those games are their families. no longer produced. Baker and Scheidle “They’re only going to be little and out are careful to keep every game ever creof school for such a short time,” Scheidle ated for their supported systems in stock, said. She and Baker attribute their success and spend hours scouring eBay and oth- and was hosted through the free blogging to putting forth time and detail into creat- er sites when a customer purchases that site, Blogger. When the economy took a ing a fully-developed service. Supportive hard-to-obtain game. downturn, she faced a hard decision many husbands have especially helped. As for the future of Smartyrents.com, families have had to make: whether to join Smartyrents.com currently serves cus- Scheidle and Baker are eager to look at edu- the workforce to bring in more income, tomers as far as Nevada and grows ev- cational DVDs in addition to branching out or cut spending so she wouldn’t have to. ery week. In addition to the subscription into other consoles as customers make sug- Initially, Scarlett, who has always been a model, it also offers the ability to pur- gestions and requests. “We want to main- stay-at-home mom, didn’t want to leave chase games with a “Love It” price that tain that educational link,” Baker said. her children. When she discovered that
70 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
first coupon coup, she posted it on her blog and began posting other coupons and strategies for saving money. Scarlett sent her tips and coupons to other blogs and got excited when she saw her name in print on someone else’s page, credited for the finds. “I remember the first time I called my husband over to the computer to show him my name on someone else’s website,” Scarlett said. As her readership grew, Scarlett decided she needed to make her own domain name and purchased the Saveathomemommy. com website where she hosts Running a web-based cloth her blog and advertises for Save diaper service is easy for Tesa At Home Mommy Seminars. Kurin (with a little help). She uses her seminars to teach Need caption info in this area. Need caption info in this area. people the four steps of saving that she learned, like creating a house- field to Antelope Valley, Little Cabooses hold budget, developing a new shopping provides drop-off and pick-up for cloth strategy, understanding coupon rules and diapers to satisfy a range of ages and store rewards programs, and getting or- body sizes for babies, and does all of the ganized. washing and sanitizing, which Kurin said “There were several times in the first is a big relief for many customers. few months of running my site that I was Kurin said that it costs about $1,600 tempted to quit because it was taking up per year to diaper a baby using disposable so much time,” Scarlett said. diapers whereas one year of her service is She was working on it from the time roughly $1,000. She added that her sershe got up in the morning to the time she vice uses industrial washers, which use went to bed, and realized that in order to less water and soap per single diaper than keep it, she would have to make it more a home washer, and adds to the environmanageable. Since then, she has begun mentally-friendly aspect of her service. having a more set schedule to work on the Kurin created her website as a do-itsite and to take care of her home and chil- yourself and doesn’t spend much on addren, including trading with a friend for vertising. She said that she uses the Inchildcare duties some days of the week. ternet to search for things she needs and Scarlett has heard from readers who assumed that her customers would find have saved enough to continue their way her the same way. “Ninty-eight percent of of life after one family member lost a job, my customers find me from [an Internet] or quit a job in order to stay-at-home full search,” Kurin said. time, or in one case, managed to use the In the future, Kurin would like to exstrategies presented on her site to save pand her business through education. $500 in two weeks. Scarlett said, “I never She plans to make videos available on get tired of hearing the stories as they re- YouTube so people can see how nonmind me of why I set out to do all of this, intimidating cloth diapers are. She also and why I keep plugging on.” plans to begin live classes in Bakersfield once a month. Currently, a local support Littlecabooses.com group called “The Kern County Diaper Like Scheidle and Baker, and Scarlett, Circle” helps families with cloth diapers. Tesa Kurin of Little Cabooses Diaper The group currently has 30 members in Service turned to the Internet to create Bakersfield. her own business. Serving from Bakers“Use only what you need,” Kurin said,
photo provided by tesa kurin
Women & Business as advice to others interested in beginning their own at-home business. She said that it’s possible to go overboard in starting a website and that too much clutter will drive people away. She has also found that she can barter with customers who have certain skills that can help with the business, offering free service in exchange for help. Taming the Big Bad Internet The most common piece of advice these women have for starting your own Internetbased service is to take it slow
and think about what you want to offer. Scheidle and Baker said they thought their business would spring into being overnight, but that the reality has been much slower. If you don’t prioritize your schedule in the beginning, your new business can risk eating up all your time rather than offering the flexibility you originally wanted. If you already offer a service, think about using the Internet to draw in more customers. Alternatively, some sites already exist to help people sell items they have created like eBay and Etsy.com. These collective sites offer pre-designed, customizable virtual storefronts with built-in payment options that mean you don’t have to go that extra mile in coding your own site, or hiring a professional. The Internet is here to stay, so why not use it to your benefit...these industrious women have and, boy, are they reaping the rewards.
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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 71
72 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
I
BACK
WOMEN WHO GIVE
I
f there’s one thing women
One event in particular
are good at, it’s multi-
was the Boys and Girls
tasking. So, by that logic,
Club’s annual fund-rais-
you might say women are
I
good at a lot of things.
However, there are
two things women in
Gimme Some Sugar owner Stephanie Caughell trades cupcakes for smiles.
giving is not an option
er: Artfest. Caughill do-
nated red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. But she did so much
Bakersfield do exceptionally well...and at the same time,
more. She donated her time, her products, and herself.
that’s a given, but they also know the importance of giving
Courtney Ghilarducci, is there to help her when she decides
charity into their business that we had no trouble finding
“The Department of Human Services was wanting cup-
we might add. Women are wonderful business owners,
back to the community. So many local women integrate
And her small, loyal staff, including Geri Klonskly and
to give back.
them...we just followed their philanthropic trails.
cakes for their Heart Gallery unveiling, but they found out
one needs something, and I can help, I’m going to do what
“Stephanie delivered all the cupcakes, but wouldn’t accept
“It’s not an option,” Stephanie Caughell says. “If some-
I have to do to make that happen.”
Caughell is the owner of Gimme Some Sugar, an up-
they could only pay half of the cost,” Klonskly explains. any payment from them, not even half.”
“It just doesn’t occur to me that it’s a choice. People need
scale cake bakery.
and I can help,” Caughell elaborates.
than determination and four walls, Caughell has already
has provided treats for numerous organizations, including
knows how—through sweets!
mens’ Business Conference.
Though she started the business in 2005 with little more
found ways to give back to the community the best way she
“You’re giving someone joy,” she explains of charity. “It
So far, in the five years she has been in business, Caughell
Gleaners’ functions, the Spotlight Foundation, and the Wo-
But perhaps it’s the smaller gifts that make the biggest
can be through whatever means you have, but it’s still a gift.”
difference.
when she can, but primarily by providing cakes or cupcakes.
for her son’s third birthday,” >>
Caughell has been part of charitable events, sponsoring
“A woman came in to order a cake
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Women & Business
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Women & Business Caughell explains. “He had just undergone a heart transplant and his family hadn’t expected him to live this long. So Caughell baked, frosted, and delivered the custom cake, but she wouldn’t take any form of payment from the family. “Those are the types of moments I love to be a part of. It’s at those times when it’s most important to give.” “It just needs to be done,” agrees Shawna Haddad Byers, the owner of Fishlips. While Byers helped create and establish the bar/venue in 2000, and has always been a charitable woman, it wasn’t until ‘07 that she bought the place with business parter Andrew Wilkins and truly began her philanthropic goals. “It’s tough owning a business and coordinating a family, but you can still find the time to give back.” For Byers, sometimes that simply means opening her doors.
for five bucks a piece, I’ll do it.” Byers annually donates whatever she can to the Alliance Against Family Violence, but how she utilizes the venue at Fishlips is what’s most impressive. The utterly tenacious Byers has been a party to over $100,000 being raised for the troops through organizations like Operation Interdependence which delivers civilian donations to military personnel overseas. In June of 2007, famed guitarShawna Haddad Byers, coist Gary Hoey was set to play the owner of Fishlips, has helped Fishlips stage. He auctioned off raise over $100,000 for charity. an autographed guitar for $1,500 that night, with the proceeds going “I’ll donate the space and let them do to charity. Since then, guitars carrying the whatever they need to do,” she says of signatures of Willie Nelson, Dick Dale, and the numerous organizations that have held Kenny Loggins (among many others) have fund-raisers and benefits at the downtown been auctioned off on the Fishlips stage. “Since that first show, we have aucstaple, including the Ronald McDonald House (which was able to raise $10,000 in tioned off 15 guitars,” Byers elaborates. one night). “And if that means they need “And in guitar proceeds alone, we’ve continued on page 84 >> me to walk around selling raffle tickets
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Women & Business
1601 New Stine Road, Suite 200 661.834.4126 (l-r) Brigit Ayers, Laura Turner, Anika Henrikson, Cheryl Rydia, Lisa Crowley, Jillian White, Isabel Alvarez, Melissa Galvan (not shown) bakersfieldmagazine.net 74 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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Women & Business
Victoria Diffee
(l-r) Nicole Bowman, Carolyn Bradford, Vicki Mallard, Victoria Diffee, Trisha Kahanic, Laurel Thompson, Samantha Mitchell
Owner, Victoria’s Boutique t How long have you been in the business? 15 years. t What products and services does your company offer? We offer a one-stop shopping experience for ladies. I take pride in carrying quality clothing that is reasonably priced. Our customers enjoy lines by Tribal, Christine Alexander, IDI, and Cubism, just to name a few. At Victoria’s you will find a large selection of Brighton jewelry, leather handbags, and a home and gifts department. We offer special occasion shoes and comfortable, everyday shoes by Onex and Brighton. Ladies love our intimate apparel department featuring Spanx. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I was fortunate enough to take a class in Los Angeles at the prestigious California Mart. This experience was invaluable and I learned what I needed to get me started from day one.
ictoria’s
Over the years, I’ve hired talented individuals that have allowed me to expand my knowledge. The retail world is constantly evolving and it’s important to keep up with the times. t What hobbies and outside interests do you have? I enjoy the simple things in life, whether it’s going to see a movie with my husband, David, of 35 years, or family game night. I love the time I spend with my four grandchildren and going to my oldest grandson’s baseball games. t What do you want people to know about your company? As a locally-owned business, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and products. It’s important to me to keep up with the latest in fashion, whether it’s attending seminars or markets. The age of our customer can vary quite a bit, from daughter, to mother, to grandmother. I am fortunate as a small business owner to employ six fantastic ladies. It takes a lot to make a business successful these days and everyone works diligently to contribute to our success. One of the things I enjoy the most about this business is the wonderful people I’ve met through the years. They are not just our customers, they’re our friends.
9000 Ming Avenue, Suite K-4, Bakersfield, CA
661.665.8333 www
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 75
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Women & Business
Jana Kerber
(l-r) Ceice Maas, Tami Calcote, Jana Kerber, Melissa Killian, Brigette Danley
Owner-Esthetician, Studio Bliss Day Spa t How long have you been in the business? Studio Bliss has been open for 2 years. t How long have you been in the profession? Jana, owner and esthetician, 7 years. Ceice, manicurist, 23 years. Tami, manicurist, 10 years. Melissa, hairstylist, 6 years. Brigette, hairstylist, 23 years. t What services does your company offer? Studio Bliss is a full-service day spa and salon. We cater to clientèle that are seeking outstanding services in an upscale and private atmosphere. All services are done in private or semi-private rooms. We offer customized facials/peels, specialize in acne problems, waxing, permanent makeup, special event makeup, acrylic and gel nails, spa manicures and pedicures, haircuts and color, and are certified in Great Lengths hair extensions and hair smoothing treatments.
SB
Studio Bliss
the day spa
EXPERIENCE
3100 19th Street, Suite 300, Bakersfield, CA
661.322.7800
xxxx 76 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
t What products do you offer? Colorscience and Glo Mineral Makeup, Davines and Brandon Martinez hair products, Rhonda Allison, Ayur-Medic and Dr. Grandel skin products, just to name a few. We also have a boutique with trendy clothing, jewelry, purses, etc. t What do you want people to know about you and your company? Studio Bliss is a unique retreat for men and women to escape the rigors of daily stress. Our staff is friendly and welcoming with a strong devotion to helping people and excelling in their fields of expertise. We are consistently updating techniques, exploring trends, and looking for creative solutions to serve our clients. t What outside interests do you have? Each staff member is involved in volunteering in serveral committees and boards in our community.
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Women & Business
Deanna Blaise
Vice President/Branch Manager Rabobank, N.A. t How long have you been in business? The roots of Rabobank go back more than 110 years when farmers in the Netherlands pooled their money to make loans to their neighbors. Our branch on Stockdale Highway was established in 1985 as part of the Bank of Stockdale. t How long have you been in the profession? I have been a banker for 7 years. I began in agricultural lending and later moved to cash management. I joined Rabobank in 2007 as a vice president and treasury relationship manager and became manager of our Stockdale Branch in September 2008 to oversee business development and client retention. t What products and services does your company offer? As a full service community bank, we offer personal and business checking and savings plans, loans and credit lines, agricultural financing, equipment leasing, treasury services, remote deposit, and wealth management. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I studied business administration and marketing at Cal State University, Bakersfield. t What hobbies and outside interests do you have? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a member of the North Bakersfield Rotary and volunteer with Youth Connection, Inc. and the Bakersfield Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Conference. I enjoy camping and sports activities with my husband and children. t What do you want people to know about you and your company? As branch manager, what I enjoy the most is helping businesses and individuals achieve their goals with the vast range of products and services that Rabobank offers. With 92 branches (including three in Bakersfield) and 15 financial service centers, Rabobank serves the needs of communities from Sacramento to the Imperial Valley through local decision making and active community involvement by our employees. Rabobank, N.A. is part of the Rabobank Group, one of the safest banks in the world with more than 110 years of trustworthy service.
5151 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA
661.833.9292
rabobankamerica.com
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 77
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Women & Business
AAA Travel Agents
The Automobile Club of Southern California
(l-r) Jackie Fooks, Janette Sutherland, Alice Hacker, Magdalena Leon, Ada Bejarano, Laura Barton, Cheryl Watkins, Linda Heald, Annette Mojica (not shown) Chere Smith, Marilee Reagor, Leticia Reyes
t How long have you been in the business? The Automobile Club of Southern California has been proudly serving the Bakersfield and Kern County area since 1915; offering a full-service travel agency for 62 years. When combining staff experience, we have over 290 years in the travel industry. t What products and services does your company offer? We are a full-service travel agency offering a wide range of travel products and personalized travel planning services. We sell land and cruise vacation packages and we make airline, car rental, and hotel reservations. We offer great pricing with the buying power of one of the world’s largest leisure travel agencies. Our AAA discounted for members bookstore carries a selection of top-rated travel publications such as Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, and Frommer’s.
1500 Commercial Way, Bakersfield, CA
661.852.4070
aaatravelbakersfield@aaa-calif.com 78 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
t What kind of education and special training do you have? All of our travel agents have previous travel industry experience. They have attended the AAA travel agency training program. Several of our employees have degrees in Travel and Tourism, while others have related degrees. t What do you want people to know about you and your company? Our dedicated agents will help you create a trip that’s memorable and will make the whole process easy. We offer personalized service every step of the way, with helpful, hassle-free planning and insider tips. Our services are available to the public but AAA members receive extra value with exclusive Member Benefits.
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Women & Business
Yuh-Jen Liao, O.D. Optometrist Li & Liao Optometry
t How long have you been in business? I partnered with my husband, Dr. Dawson Li, in January 2006. t How long have you been in the profession? I am a 2000 graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry, in Chicago, IL. Upon graduation, I practiced in Atlanta, GA for one year, managing LASIK patients pre- and post-operatively. My husband and I then moved to Bakersfield in 2001, where I worked with Empire Eye & Laser until joining my husband in our practice. t What products and services does your company offer? We provide all eye care services with the exception of eye surgeries. We specialize in contact lenses, and have a wide variety of styles to fit nearly everyone. Our optical department has the latest trends in designer glasses and sunglasses such as Coach, Gucci, and Christian Dior, while still offering more traditional styles in order to suit every individual’s need. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of California at San Diego. After UCSD, I earned my doctorate in optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry. t What hobbies and outside interests do you have? We have a boy/girl set of twins that are 3 years old and a baby girl on the way, so between family and career, there’s little time for anything else. I enjoy tennis, and as a family, we make fitness and health part of our lifestyle. t What do you want people to know about you and your company? Our mission is to provide legendary customer service to all of our patients and their families, to be technologically advanced in all of our services, and to provide the highest quality fashion eye-wear to meet all of our patients’ lifestyle needs. “We are focused on you.”
9820 Brimhall Road
1002 Wible Road, Suite 1
661.213.3000
661.835.1104
BakersfieldEyeDoc.com
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Women & Business
Elecia Harden
Owner, Carriage Masters, Inc. t What services does your company offer? Carriage Masters is a full-service collision repair facility. We work well with all of the insurance companies; and try to minimize both your inconvenience and concern by working as a liaison on your behalf. Every customer is offered a lifetime warranty and we also have a large Enterprise Rent-A-Car office on site. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I majored in sociology and worked briefly as a juvenile probation officer, but knew quickly it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t for me. As a young girl, I always loved being around cars and car people. I grew up babysitting for a family of professional drag racers. I was always at their house, at their garage, and even traveled with their family to races. So much of my time was spent around cars, that by the time I was 16 and driving, I could change my own oil, kit a carburetor, and change a thermostat. When I
8929 Rosedale Highway, Bakersfield, CA
661.587.0550
www.CarriageMasters.com 80 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
met my husband, Red, a custom car builder, it was a perfect fit! He was amazed that a woman could know so much about cars. I have been a willing student and currently stay abreast of our ever-changing industry by taking I-CAR and estimating classes alongside the technicians we employ. t What hobbies do you have? Interior design, as exemplified by our office. It is fashioned after a European Marketplace. The inspiration was a 385-pound marlin my son caught in Cabo and I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want it hanging in my house! t What do you want people to know about you and your company? As an independent, family-owned business, we have to set ourselves apart from our competitors, so we make customer service our number one priority. We pride ourselves on being one of the highest quality and most service-oriented shops in the state. I know that most women do not have a lot of confidence when it comes to dealing with car problems so when we evolved from a custom shop to a full-service collision repair, it was my personal goal to make our female customers feel as comfortable in our shop as men do in any shop.
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Women & Business
Leslie Walters Founder, Walters & Associates, Inc.
t How long have you been in the business? Since 1978. t What services does your company offer? We are a real estate brokerage company that helps people buy residential real estate (single family homes up to 10-unit apartment houses) and we advise lenders. We offer expertise in sales and purchases, relocation sales, tax-deferred exchanges, short sales, and foreclosures. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I am constantly in education around my industry, mainly via trade associations. I have been very active in the Bakersfield Association of Realtors since the beginning and served as the Association President (1999). I was honored by my peers as Salesperson of the Year (1990) and Realtor of the Year (2004). I have served as Director of the California Association of Realtors, requiring state-level decisions affecting my industry and many interactions with state-level legislatures. I have been a long-time member of the Women’s Council of Realtors and just completed a year as their President. My approach to education is street-level; I want to know what’s happening in the trenches. t What hobbies and outside interests do you have? I love the time I spend in my gardens. I remodel homes and volunteer both inside and outside my industry. I have sponsored the Bakersfield Jazz Festival since 2004. But most of all, I have friends whom I cherish. t What do you want people to know about your company? Our fundamental philosophy is also our motto: “Taking care of our customers.” We offer competent help throughout the real estate sales/purchase process. When we notice we need to learn something new to our industry, we learn it. When we see our clients act contrary to their interests, we speak up. We also have fun with all this seriousness, for we work to produce a mood that people want to be around. No surprise, then, that most of our business is repeat or referral.
2026 21st Street, Bakersfield, CA 661.716.2300 cell 661.332.7836 wa-realty.com
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Women & Business
Tabassum A. Chowdhury,M.D. Gastroenterologist, Kern Gastroenterology Medical Group
t How long have you been a physician? I have been a physician for 21 years and have practiced in Bakersfield for 13. t What kind of care do you provide? I specialize in all disorders involving the gastrointestinal tract, including acid reflux disease, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, pancreatic disease, gallstones, jaundice, hepatitis, and irritable bowel. t What kind of education and special training do you have? I completed my Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology training at University of Missouri, in Columbia, Missouri. I am Board Certified in Gastroenterology. t What are your special interests? In my spare time, I travel with my son and daughter to various places. I feel it is important to enrich their lives and expose them to other countries and cultures. I love interior designing, cooking, and entertaining. It is important to me to help our underprivileged children through organizations here at home and abroad. I am in the process of setting up a private foundation dedicated to the memory of my mother. It will provide children of lesser means the opportunity to pursue their college education. t What do you want people to know about you and your Medical Group? Both my parents were physicians and it always fascinated me to see the way they touched peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives, so I decided to become a doctor. As a resident physician, I noticed women were not seeking help for their gastrointestinal problems because of their desire for a female physician. It was then that I pursued my gastroenterology fellowship. Kern Gastroenterology Medical Group has Board Certified physicians who are specially trained in the latest, state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures. Our physicians are highly dedicated and are always available to serve the medical needs of our community.
5959 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA
661.324.1203
df Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital 82
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Women & Business
Women & Business (l-r) Naomi Howze, Kay Borda, Julie Hatridge
Michele Waugh, Annette Mercado
Julie Hatridge
t How long have you been in the profession? We have worked together since 2002 but we both have previous years of experience in the field. t What products and services does your company offer? We offer full-service remodeling, including several cabinet lines such as Starmark and Dewils along with building our own quality custom cabinetry. From classic, traditional kitchens to contemporary “Euro” style, we can design and install it all, from bath cabinetry, entertainment centers and wardrobe solutions to outdoor kitchens. t What hobbies and outside interests do you have? Annette enjoys cooking and experimenting on new recipes with her daughter. Michele loves the outdoors and working on craft projects with her granddaughter. t What do you want people to know about your company? From concept to installation, we provide a personal touch that sets us apart from other companies. We pay close attention to detail every step of the way, while being mindful of your budget.
t How long have you been in the business? I have been in this business for nearly 20 years. t What products and services does your company offer? We have what you need to make your home a reflection of your fabulous self! Our staff is here to ensure that you have the help you need while transforming your home or office into a unique and welcoming place. In addition to our great line of décor and furnishings, we also have a wide array of gift ideas for anyone in your life. You’ll find just what you’re looking for at The French Quarter. t What do you want people to know about your company? It is our job to offer you a little break from your everyday routine while you are in our store and being able to do so is something that the entire staff, here at The French Quarter, enjoys. We love our jobs and because of that, we have a lot of fun here. We just know you will, too!
Owners, Blue River Cabinetry & Design
Owner, The French Quarter
The
French Quarter
120 Union Avenue, Bakersfield, CA
9339 Rosedale Highway, Bakersfield, CA
BRCKitchenBath.com
TheFrenchQuarterBakersfield.com
661.588.8481
661.588.0669
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 83
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Women & Business
Carol Rodgers & Kim Yeomans Owners, Bobbi’s Hallmark
t How long have you been in the business? 23 years. t How long have you been in the profession? 34 Years t What products and services does your company offer? We are a full-service card and gift store. We carry a full line of Hallmark cards, stationary, gift wrap, and albums, and provide a custom imprinting shop for invitations and announcements, as well as wedding and baby products. t What do you want people to know about your company? When you tell people that you own a Hallmark store, they automatically think you’re a card salesperson. But there is so much more to our store. The Hallmark brand brings people in, but our other product lines and services set us apart. We are always looking for the latest trends and carry a wide variety of home décor. It keeps our customers coming back.
8200 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA
661.834.7467
84 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Women & Business
continued from page 74
raised $56,000.” That’s a lot of money for charity. “My goal for 2009 was to reach $10,000, and we raised $12,000.” Still, Byers is always looking to do more. “It’s the least I can do if I’m able to get a soldier the basics. It means so much to them to have the little things we take for granted. When I hear a ‘thank you’ from someone who’s got a cousin, a daughter, or a parent overseas, that’s all I need to keep going.” And a simple ‘thank you’ seems to keep pushing Dayna Nichols, owner of Castle Print, Inc., to do more. When she bought the printing business in 1990, Nichols already knew what a giving community Bakersfield was. Even though her youngest child (of seven!) was only weeks old when she stepped in to run Castle Print, Nichols stepped up to the plate for other organizations in our community and has always included charity as a part of her business plan. “It all started with the Bakersfield City School District EducaDonating paper is just one tion Foundation,” way Castle Print, Inc. owner she muses. “I had Dayna Nichols gives back. children in four different schools... I couldn’t be everywhere, but I was able to help give back at a new level, rather than as just a parent. I was able to learn what the schools needed and advocate for them in the community.” That was only the beginning. As a printing company, you can bet Castle Print uses a lot of paper. “Some local charities struggle to have the basics to run their operations, so anytime I have extra paper, I’ll donate it.” It might not seem like a big gift, but to nonprofits like Warmline (one of the organizations Nichols gives to), it can mean getting extra fliers out about events, or getting letters in front of the people who can help. As a sponsor, supporter, and committee member of the Womens’ Business Conference, Nichols also became involved with the organization’s Rose Mentor Program a few years ago. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to show young women you can do it all. You can teach girls, and the greater community, that you can work through your problems and be successful.” It’s a way for this business woman to give of herself. She wants those girls to know that you can have a career, a family, and support the community at the same time. You just have to want to do it. Nichols, whose days are so filled with volunteering on various committees, frequently catches up on work late at night. And because family is so important to her, Nichols is happy to be in charge of Kern County Family Week, a not-for-profit week of fun geared to helping families build positive relationships with each other. “I was raised to give back. And with the help of my wonderful employees, including Mike and Cherie Miles, I can continue to do that. It’s so important to help out where and when you can because other people will see the effects of helping out your community; they’ll learn from it. You can influence others to give back as well, which will benefit Bakersfield.”
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GARDENING WITH MRS. P
Remember the pickup line, “What’s Your Sign?”
B
By Lynn Pitts
elieve it or not, there are zodiac star signs for gardeners. I’m not talking about literal translations—no huge crab topiaries or lion statues. This is about defining our gardens with the characteristics associated with a particular sign. Imagine a private retreat for shy Virgo; a sanctuary for Cancer, who loves to cocoon; a “garden room” with a view for restless Sagittarius. You might emphasize the colors (or attributes) related to a sign—deep shades of red for passionate Scorpios; greens and blues for watery Pisces; copper for Taurus; tropical for Capricorn; royal purples for Leo. This is something to have a little fun with. First of all, it’s helpful to know that the 12 zodiac signs are divided into four elements: fire for Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius; earth for Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn; air for Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius; and water for Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. Fire sign people tend to gravitate towards gardens with sunny patios and outdoor entertaining areas. Earth sign people prefer functional gardens with specific areas set aside for fruit, vegetable, and flower growing. Air sign people, being true romantics, will include arbors and scented flowers. Water people will be the first to install fountains, birdbaths, and ponds in their gardens. Did you know there are star sign plants? Here’s a thumbnail sketch of each horoscope sign. Maybe you’ll get a few ideas and be inspired to grow your own personal sign of the zodiac this summer. Known as fiery characters with a bit of wild flair, Aries is one hot star sign. Their plants are hot peppers, mint, geraniums, bean, and hops. Aries enjoy being surrounded by red and yellow flowers. The determined Bull will have a conservative or more traditional garden. Trees that bear fruit in one area, hybrid tea roses planted all together in another section, and, of course, a separate veggie garden with cucumbers, onions, and pumpkins being their horoscope plants. This sign approaches gardening intellectually and instinctively understands the merits of a versatile garden; one that can do double-duty. A Twin sign will inter-mix herbs, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. One Gemini favorite is an orange tree with lavender planted underneath. >>
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 85
Home-loving Crabs are very protective of their gardens. They’ll grow okra as a hedge and morning glories as a screen. Fiercely patriotic, the summer Cancer flower garden will be red, white, and blue. But you may not view it, as it’ll be behind a fence. Larger than life, Leo gardens have lots of “bling.” Gigantic sunflowers, moonflower vines, and big tomatoes compete with every inch of space to grab your attention. Even the weeds in a Leo garden are lion-sized. Modest, practical, and tidy, Virgo gardens spotlight small flowers, particularly blue and yellow. Their chrysanthemums and asters will be neatly staked and their melons tied up in pantyhose slings above the dirty ground. The tasteful Libran garden will feature classic plants in pastel colors. Oldfashioned roses, gardenias, daisies, and tuberoses will greet the visitor. They’ll grow corn for the perfect symmetry of its kernels, carrots for the beauty of its leafy tops. The intense magnetism of the secretive Scorpio’s nature will be found in their choices of color more than the plants. They’ll grow deep red hibiscus, maroon colored roses, berries, and figs. Rumor has it their flower is the Venus flytrap. (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) The honest, straightforwardness of a Sag garden will demonstrate low maintenance. This is because Sagittarians always have their bags packed ready to travel. They’ll grow potatoes, camellias, and ornamental grasses. Always the optimist, only a Sag will succeed in growing clematis in Bakersfield. The ambitious Capricorn favors plants that work as hard as they do. Ivy and willow are in the Goat sign, for example. A Capricorn garden will highlight rocks and boulders in a dry stream bed.
©istockphoto.com/alexandernovikov(bride)/eb75(zodiac)
Gardening with Mrs. P Original, independent, and outgoing, Aquarians have a natural eye for focal points in their gardens. Bird of Paradise is an Aquarian plant. Pomegranates are another. True Aquarians will have a water feature to attract birds and butterflies. Emotional and sensitive, this sign enjoys planting in groups or “schools.” Their quite obvious star sign flower is the water lily. But they’re happy with anything growing near water. Mosses, orchids, and willows thrive under a Piscean gardener. The above is meant to amuse you. If you or your loved one relates to any of these star signs, go for it...horticultural speaking. And since L-O-V-E is in the air at this “Valentiney” time of the year, let’s discuss roses. I once read a book called The Flower Game, which asked a few hundred celebrities to list their 10 most favorite flowers in order of preference. Roses won hands down. We all know how easy it is to grow beautiful roses in Bakersfield. After all, millions of roses are born in Kern County and shipped all over the country. There’s a color, size, and variety for every sign of the zodiac. There are old Garden Roses and modern roses, which include Hybrid Teas, Floribundas, Grandifloras, and Polyanthas. Old Garden Roses or OGRs have quite a history. Basically, OGRs are any of the many classes of roses existing before the introduction of “La France” in 1867. This date was chosen because “La France” is accepted as being the first of the modern Hybrid Tea Roses. So now you know the difference between OGRs and modern roses! Who else would tell you these things? Don’t weddings and roses just seem to go together? For anyone planning a wedding this year or living in “Great Expectation,” it’s never too early to start thinking about the flowers. Whether inside or out, do not skimp on flowers! Decide first on your theme from which all else will flow. The bride’s dress and bouquet usually set the tone. I believe a professional florist should provide, at the very minimum, all personal flowers—meaning the bride’s and bridesmaid’s bouquets. Do consider
86 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Consider throwing colorful dried flower petals instead of rice at weddings.
lighting when choosing colors. What looks great in natural light may not under artificial light and vice versa. Since the custom of throwing rice is so last century, why not consider throwing colorful dried flower petals? Simply ask friends and family to collect petals as they deadhead plants in their garden. Roses, larkspur, bachelor buttons, marigolds, and violets dry beautifully; just spread the petals out on sheets of newspaper in a cool, dry area. Next, package up in small cellophane treat bags (found in arts and crafts stores), tie with coordinating ribbon, and voilà! A “green” solution to throwing rice. And don’t forget your favorite Pisces gardener this month. Gift them with a bird bath and a pair of plastic fish. Happy Horoscope Gardening! v Lynn Pitts, better known as Mrs. P., is a native Californian, master gardener in four counties including Kern, a garden writer, and professional botanical artist. She has been featured on “The Art of Gardening,” on PBS, and has conducted flower workshops throughout California for botanical gardens and arboretums.
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green
pages
GOING
GREEN You’ve already started recycling.
Maybe you’re even biking more, instead of driving. So what’s next? Simple. It’s time to go back to the basics. What’s something that you encounter everyday while walking, biking, or driving? Sometimes you notice it and sometimes you don’t. In either case, it harms our environment and makes our city look shabby. The answer is litter! It could be an empty fast food bag in the gutter on your street, a tipped over trash can on a main drag, or even debris along the side of a highway—it all needs to be picked up. Anyone can pick up a few scattered pieces of garbage—but it’s important to do more! There are a number of ways you can get involved around Kern County by picking up litter and keeping our city clean and healthy. Start by visiting Kern County’s road clean up website (www.co.kern. ca.us/KKRC/default.asp) or you can visit www.keepbakersfieldbeautiful.us/ to check out some great programs in our area that can help you do your part. 86-CLEAN
Have you ever spotted an area of the city in need of a clean-up? Here’s how you can help. Give this number a call with the specifics; the location, cross streets, and what needs to be cleaned up. If it is a job they’re capable of taking care of, someone will be out there as soon as possible. If not, they will organize a volunteer group to help clean the area. You can assist them in keeping Bakersfield beautiful simply by calling. Want to get more involved? They’re also looking for additional volunteer groups who would be interested in going to the areas that are reported. If your group would be interested in this volunteer opportunity, please call today! Graffiti Abatement
The Graffiti Abatement program works with local schools to fight graffiti along with educating students about the negative impacts of graffiti, as well as teaching students about the law in regards to graffiti. The Graffiti Abatement program provides assistance in the Great American Clean-Up every year.
It’s Not Art...
Waste In Place
Graf f i t i i s just
ugly
Waste In Place is a California School approved curriculum for school kids regarding recycling. The program is a “train the trainer” program. The county is looking to introducing it into schools next school year. As part of this >>
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pages
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green Put waste in its place
Solar Electric System Design & Installation
When The Sun Comes Up, Your Bill Goes Down!
back to
Basics
program, Keep Bakersfield Beautiful (KBB) along with the Solid Waste Division is committed to introducing an effective recycling collection program to complement the education component. Scouts
Wes & Beverly Bartell
“Solar will save you money on electricity costs and protect you from future rate increases. It is an environmentally sound investment which means less pollution and fewer emissions from a renewable energy source that is free for the taking.” —Wes & Beverly Bartell Lic# 886507
Locally Owned
GoPureEnergy.com
661-716-7500
Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts can earn a patch by volunteering in KBB projects: the CUB patch (Clean-Up Bakersfield). Scouts have also been major supporters in the Great American Clean-Up. Of course, if you’re looking to do something bigger, the world is your oyster. Or rather...the roads are. Adopt A Highway
If you’re a business, organization, family, or even just a party of one and you want to help out our community, you can adopt a stretch of highway or even just an area in town. The Adopt-an-Area and Keep Kern Roads Clean programs are actively seeking volunteers who will commit to cleaning a specific area at least once a month. A sign with your name will be posted as recognition, too! To sign up, complete an application form either online at the Keep Kern Roads Clean website or print one out and send it in. You may even get to select the road you want to adopt. not convinced adopting a road is right for you?
The
10
th
Annual
• Dinner • Auction • Fundraiser
In Support of:
The US Naval Museum of Armament and Technology
SATURDAY, MAY 29th, 2010 Kerr McGee Center
100 West California Ave. Ridgecrest, CA
5:00pm Cocktails / Silent Auction 6:30pm Dinner Catered by Farris 7:30pm Welcome and Live Auction
For Tickets or More Information Call:
760-939-3530
Member Agency #13086 United Way of Indian Wells Valley 88 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
These statistics may just change your mind! 1) The Caltrans Adopt-A-Highway Program was established in 1989 (California was the 20th state in the nation to develop an Adopt-A-Highway Program). 2) In addition to the aesthetic benefits of cleaner and more beautiful roadsides, participants help to prevent potential pollutants from entering our waterways. 3) During the past 15 years, Adopt-A-Highway participants have collected litter from over 4,000 locations, cleaned graffiti from more than 300 freeway walls or structures, planted trees and wildflowers at 375 sites, and even maintained historic mission bells. 4) More than 15,000 shoulder-miles of highway are adopted— that’s over 50 percent of the State Highway System. 5) Adopt-A-Highway Program participants pick up nearly 250,000 bags of trash from California’s roadsides each year–enough bags to reach from Bakersfield to Disneyland! 6) Adopt-A-Highway Program efforts represent a $14.5 million savings to California’s taxpayers each year. what are you waiting for?
Gather a group of friends, business associates, or coworkers and start picking up our roads today. A little work today will mean a cleaner future for everyone! n Sources: www.co.kern.ca.us/KKRC, www.keepbakersfieldbeautiful.us photo©istockphoto.com/kaisphoto
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
home & Garden By Tom Xavier
it’s a new season
Keeping Things Fresh
after
The holiday decorations have been put away for a few months now. The splendor and wonders of the winter season are just memories. You know that feeling...you’re a little sad. Perhaps you’re miss-
Get out of the holidays ...and into the light!
ing all the hustle and bustle? Or perhaps you’re just missing the look of a festively-decorated abode. So when you look around your home, it might seem a little boring...even a little empty. But not to fret, now is the perfect time to do a little home redesign. Nothing major, mind you. We’re not talking knocking down a wall. Rather, think about incorporating a little light to your home. After all, spring is right around the corner. Now is the perfect time to “refresh” a room or two. A good place to start is in the bedroom. Why? Because the ambiance in your bedroom is key to your wellbeing. And even more crucial is your bedding. It really all depends on your taste and, of course, your budget. However, one of the department stores or specialty stores is always running some kind of ad or special. You have to love a good bargain and a good coupon! Just by purchasing a new set of linens can jump start your energy and can impact your comfort level. The thought of sliding into a fresh, crisp new set of 600-plus count Egyptian cotton sheets—luxurious! It’s like “buttah.”
BEFORE
Treat yourself and buy a set...they last forever and you will be hooked >> photos©istockphoto.com/laughingmango/acik
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 89
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90 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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home & Garden ©istockphoto.com/domenicogelermo
resources
Down comforters keep you warm in winter and cool in summer... because they breathe. on the feel of them. Just don’t worry so much about color. Remember, it’s your home, your bed, your style. White, ecru, eggshell, or beige can be good choices; they go with everything. But the ultimate decision is yours. Pick what you like. There is no right or wrong choice. If you don’t want to go to the expense of purchasing a new comforter set every time you want to give your room a new look, a duvet cover is a good option. You can have a number of duvets on hand for any season...or even if you get a wild spark to redecorate. Designer’s Tip: Invest in a quality white goose down comforter. A down comforter keeps you warm and cozy in the winter and cool in the summer because they breathe. You can also resurrect your current comforter by throwing it in the dryer with a tennis ball. This will prevent the filling from bunching up in one place. Then toss in a few dryer sheets to give it that fresh smell. Enough about your bedding. Just as important are the trinkets around your room. Change those old lamp shades to spice up the style, add some fresh flowers for color and fragrance, or move some photos around, perhaps even bring in art from another room. Rearranging the furniture is helpful, especially if you have carpet. That way you don’t have the same traffic areas. And what about that area rug that’s always been in the family room? Move it to the bedroom for a new style. Remember, you don’t have to go buy all brand new items when spring comes around. You may be surprised at what you have around your own home that is useful for a bit of home refreshing. With simple little things, you really can give an “old” room a new look. When it is all done, you can step back, take a deep breath, smile, and enjoy the new season in your “new” room.
n
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❖
HUMAN RESOURCES ❖
Sometimes Too Much May Be Just Right
FIELD MAG RS
ER UNI
TN
COM
M
INE AZ
BAKE
By Holly Culhane, SPHR
T Y PA
R
92 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Okay—I admit it. I’m a sucker for the old sitcoms. There is something intriguing about reverting to a “simpler,” less complicated time. In today’s economy, we’re witnessing an interesting phenomenon with so many people out-of-work or underemployed. Some of these individuals are discovering that simplifying life has its advantages, such as more time for family and the time to discover and develop those relationships that make life truly meaningful. Sometimes less really is more. This can be good news to employers looking for the absolute best workers possessing multiple talents to handle a myriad of tasks in a shrinking workforce. Often in the past, and still lurking about now, is the notion that “overqualified” employees are a poor job risk. The argument runs something like this: “they’re just waiting for something better to come along, they’ll be bored, they must be a trouble-maker if they’re willing to work below their skill level, they must be out of work and desperate.” However, many job seekers today are looking for a better life/work balance and are not always trying to meet or exceed their previous job responsibilities. In today’s market, especially in certain industries, every job posted results in a plethora of applicants. In an October 2009 article in HR Magazine titled “Sometimes More is More,” by Steve Taylor, human resources professionals admit that with so many candidates from which to choose, the temptation can be to only consider those who exactly “fit” the job qualifications. But what about the overqualified candidates who exceed the requirements for the job—should they be considered? The trick is finding out why this person is applying for your specific opening. Applicants have some responsibility here, as well. If you’re seeking a job at a level below your experience or job skills, be sure to make it clear why you want this job. Stress the positive reasons which could include more time for a personal life, a desire to work for a forward-thinking firm with room for advancement, wanting to be in a positive environment, etc. Karen Bonanno, owner of Snelling Staffing Services, says, “Part of the battle for the applicant is getting their resume past the first round of cuts. There are many valuable second and third career candidates on the job market these days and I have found that a carefully written resume, along with a proper introduction, is sometimes the key to moving on to the personal interview phase.” Overqualified applicants offer several advantages for a hiring company, such as learning the job quickly, which allows the new hire to contribute to the organization with a minimum of training, helping develop and mentor other employees, and a willingness to work at a lower rate of pay because of fewer responsibilities but still with a wealth of expertise to benefit the company. The bottom line is clear. Overqualified candidates may be just what you need to strengthen your organization’s knowledge base and help you through difficult economic times. And who knows? As the economy recovers, and everyone and everything evolves, some of those “overqualified” employees may become your company’s leaders! Contact Holly Culhane of PAS Associates for your human resource needs, (661) 631-2165.
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LAUGHTER: medicine for body & soul
A Guide to Health & Beauty How many DIFFERENT sayings have we heard
teers laughed, their arteries expanded, but they constricted
about laughter?
after viewing a battle scene. And in a small one-year study
It’s the best medicine. It’s good for the soul. It’s contagious.
of heart-attack patients, those who watched comedies for
There are others, too. And in general, people abide by them.
30 minutes a day were less likely to suffer a second heart
Partly because we know there is an element of truth to each
attack than those who did not watch funny films.
saying. Partly because we do so much laughing on a day-to-
Laughter lowers blood sugar. www.Comsumer-
day basis, it would be nice to know a good chuckle is ben-
Reports.org says, “People with type 2 diabetes maintain
efiting our bodies. So just how much truth is there to these
better blood sugar-control after watching comic perfor-
longstanding sayings about laughter and our health?
mances...A Japanese study of people with the condition
Plenty, according to national organizations and physicians. While laughter may not be the best medicine for every condition, it turns out that a guffaw here and there has a big impact on our physical health. According to www.ConsumerReports. org, laughter has been known to do some great things for our well-being. Laughter increases blood flow. Research has shown that laughing can expand and relax arteries. For example, a study at the University of Maryland Medical Center involved measuring blood-moving capacity of arteries by having volunteers watch both humorous and stressful films. After volun-
suggests that might stem from beneficial changes in immune regulation that prevent damaging inflammation from undermining blood-sugar control.” Laughter regulates the immune system. Laughter has been found to significantly reduce levels of inflammation-triggering cytokines in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Other research suggests that after viewing humorous films, people with asthma become more resistant to flareups, those with allergies suffer fewer symptoms, and children with allergic skin rashes sleep more easily. A good laugh might also stimulate production of disease-fighting T cells and natural killer cells. Laughter burns calories. Ever notice when you laugh— laugh hard—that your abdomen aches as though you’ve just done a few sets of crunches? There is a simple >> photo©istockphoto.com/yurok
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 93
explanation for this. You’re using muscles to laugh. And exercising muscles burns calories. Laughing also boosts energy expenditure by 10 to 20 percent, according to Vanderbilt University researchers. They calculated that 15 minutes of hearty laughter could burn up to 40 calories, enough to shed more than 4 pounds a year if done daily. Laughter eases pain. Not only does laughter contract the muscles in the stomach, but it contracts and relaxes muscles in the face and shoulders, which might ease muscle tension and spasms that contribute to pain. That’s not all, according to www.HelpGuide.org, laughter can also
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do good for our mental health, too. Chuckling can lower the level of stress hormones like “cortisol, epinephrine (adrenaline), dopamine, and growth hormone. It also increases the
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It’s hard to feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing. level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins, and neurotransmitters. Laughter increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T cells. All this means a stronger immune system, as well as fewer physical effects of stress. Laughter also adds zest to life, can ease fear, improves our moods, and relieves stress. Laughing with a friend or family member also helps to strengthen our relationship. But other social benefits may not be so obvious. Laughter will attract others to us, it helps enhance teamwork, and promotes group bonding. Laughter dissolves distressing emotions. It’s hard to feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing. For that matter, when was the last time you remember laughing? We mean really laughing? Think about this: while 4-year-olds laugh about
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every four minutes, adults do it about once an hour. We can do better than that! Even if we’ve got a lot to worry about, laughter can help us put all our stressors into perspective. Start by smiling—it’s the predecessor to laughter. Smiling is also contagious. There have been numerous studies on “laugh therapy” in which physicians and researchers put laughter to the test, discovering that a hearty laugh can help those suffering from terminal illnesses, or recovering from serious accidents. In fact, these researchers found it’s possible to laugh without even experiencing a funny event. The same holds for smiling. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling. Try incorporating a little humor into your daily life. Watch a comedy, read the comics, host a game night with friends, play with a pet, play with children, go bowling, or try karaoke. Before you know it, you’ll be laughing your way to a better you. v Sources: consumerreports.org/health, helpguide.org
photo©istockphoto.com/dsgpro
GREAT
GETAWAYS
a tåste öf
Sweden Kingsburg says “ Hej ” No, that’s not a typo—it’s a greeting you’re likely to hear during a visit to the quaint city of Kingsburg, California. You might be wondering why that greeting is so prevalent. Well, the answer is simple. Sometimes known as “Little Sweden,” Kingsburg’s early settlers were of Swedish descent and “hej” is how you say “hello” in Sweden. In fact, the influence of major Swedish immigration to the area is evidenced by the fact that a 1921 census showed that within a three-mile radius of Kingsburg, 94 percent of the population was Swedish. Today, the city is tucked cozily away from big-city lights, and is just an hour and a half’s drive north from Bakersfield. Kingsburg provides old-world atmosphere, with just a touch of Swedish culture. Even if you’re not looking for a Central Valley Scandinavian hotspot, Kingsburg offers a multitude of options for the day-trip adventurer. And don’t worry about the traffic. As of 2008, the population consisted of a mere 11,259 citizens. That makes for a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle. While the city offers its share of shopping, dining, and small-town charm any day of the week, Kingsburg plays host to many festivals throughout the year. If you’re ready to start planning some trips for the spring, try to work your visit around these great local events. The Car Show Roadsters, antique cars, street rods, muscle cars, T-Birds, Mopars, and more can be found at Kingsburg’s Annual Car Show, taking place this year the weekend of April 17. You’re guaranteed a good time since the city boasts that it is one of the largest “Pre72 Car Shows in the Central Valley.” It’s not all cars, though. Great food, exciting entertainment, a carnival, and tons of shopping is available to the tourists cruising through. Additionally, street vendors sell items specializing in custom auto parts >>
PHOTOS COURTESY ERCE KINGSBURG CHAMBER OF COMM
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for entrants and guests alike. The event kicks off Friday, April 16, in downtown Kingsburg. Of course, this car show is free for the whole family to enjoy. Summer Band Concerts Under the Stars No summer is complete without a concert in the park. When the mercury rises, the days are longer, and the fruit trees are nearing harvest, you know the music is brewing in Kingsburg. But don’t think you’ll be forced to listen to just any band. Oh, no. The Kingsburg City Band has emerged to become the longest running non-professional community band west of the Mississippi. This concert series is held for a six-week pe-
able to diners and all shops and restaurants will have their doors open wide to greet guests. For you Swedes looking to connect with your heritage, there are a number of exciting, traditional Swedish events to attend. Those of you non-Swedes looking to experience a little Scandinavian culture, the short drive to Kingsburg is much cheaper than a plane ticket to good ol’ Sverige. Julgransfest Kingsburg opens its Christmas Village (Swedish style) downtown with lovely lights and festive trappings for the trek down Draper Street singing carols and lighting the community Christmas tree. You won’t want to miss
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riod every Thursday night in Kingsburg’s Memorial Park. Each night starts with a food court and shopping area from 5-8 p.m., followed by the concert from 8-9:30 p.m. The first concert this year is scheduled for June 24. The Crayfish and Jazz Festival Cracking on to the scene on September 18 is a local and visitor favorite. This year celebrates the 20th annual Kingsburg Crayfish and Jazz Festival. It’s all part of the heritage and culture of this Scandinavian-inspired city. In Sweden, crayfish are the guest of honor at special parties between neighbors. “Kingsburgers” have adapted it to feature outstanding jazz music as well as the versatile and scrumptious crustaceans. Visitors will find something special at the event which includes multiple stages situated throughout the quaint downtown area where jazz music of all types will be performed. Among the features will be a special blocklong children’s area with games and fun rides. This event is free to the public, but don’t forget to bring your tastebuds. A cooking stage will have regional chefs demonstrating some classy techniques for preparing crayfish in delectable culinary displays. Live-boil crayfish and crayfish prepared in a variety of ways will be avail-
96 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
this Christmas season kick-off. It starts at dusk on the Friday after Thanksgiving Day. Santa Lucia Celebration & Festival of Lights Parade Santa Lucia Day in Sweden opens the Christmas season with the oldest daughter of the household adorning herself in a long white gown, red sash, and a glowing crown of candles. She awakens her family members by singing the Lucia song and serving saffron buns and coffee at their bedsides. The Swedish Village of Kingsburg has adopted this very special tradition. Kingsburg celebrates Santa Lucia Day on the first Saturday in December. The sidewalks of Draper Street will be filled with arts and crafts along with specialty home-baked goods, gourmet items, and Swedish entrées. That’s not all! There’s even a gingerbread house competition at the Kingsburg Library and the entire evening concludes with the Festival of Lights Parade. Swedish Festival There’s no better place to experience the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of authentic Sweden than by visiting Kingsburg during their annual Swedish Festival. You’ll receive
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a hearty “Valkommen!” This year, during the weekend of May 13 through May 15, “Little Sweden” welcomes everyone! Kick off the weekend early on Thursday night with a Swedish Pea Soup and Pancake Dinner downtown. Come Friday morning, you’ll be riding the Dala horse train to fun. A Swedish smörgåsbord greets you Friday night with traditional Swedish delights from every province. Strolling musicians entertain you as you dine. The cost is only $10 per person and the sampling begins at 5:30 p.m. Also that night, be present for the crowning of the Swedish Festival Queen! The lucky young lady will serve as Queen throughout the year. You’ll want to rise and shine early Saturday morning (6 a.m.) to enjoy the Dala Horse Trot, hosted by the Kingsburg Women’s Club. Entrants to the Trot can walk or run the 10K. The Dala horse has come to symbolize the country of Sweden and is traditionally carved out of wood. With its origins in the province of Dalarna, the Dala horse is used primarily as a children’s toy. A Svenska (Swedish) Pancake Breakfast follows the Trot. But hold the maple syrup... you’ll want to cover those pancakes with lingonberries, as is tradition in Sweden. After breakfast, witness the decoration of the Maypole, strung with birch branches and flowers. The pole is carried last during the Swedish Festival parade which takes place at 10:30 a.m., with bands, floats, horses, antique vehicles, and many local entries to thrill the senses. Following the parade, enjoy arts and crafts from vendors lining Draper Street. Scandinavian crafts and foods are available as well as other unique local jewelry, ceramics, and works of art. From 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., you’ll be able to catch authentic Swedish and Scandinavian dancing with live music (including traditional instruments). Come 6 p.m., you’ll be able to see the Viking Ship Bed Races. Four people push a bed on wheels, dressed as Vikings to boot, with a fifth person dressed in Swedish costume sitting atop the bed. Finally, spend your evening dancing to Swedish music (Gammaldans) before turning in for the night.
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food
Switch on the burner, grease up the skillet, or spark up the coals, it’s time to get eating. It’s not hard to eat a meal fit for a king—we’ve done the research for you. Whether you’re searching for juicy new recipes to thrill dinner guests with or looking for a new, exciting place to dine out with family, our Food Section has all the spice and flavor you’ll need.
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We’ve got reviews, recipes, entertaining tips, and more! This is the place to explore local eateries that have good food and good service, find out which ones cater to your budget and your taste buds, and get culinary inspiration to bring back to your own kitchen. Sumptuous, mouth-watering meals await you whatever your mood— grab your apron and peruse these pages for your favorite recipe. Bon Appétit.
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 99
QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR
berry nice indeed Why did the assorted berries cross the road?...Anyone? Anyone? To get to the puff pastry! Wait, you haven’t heard this classic joke? Okay, okay, so it’s not a joke. But it is a delicious dessert recipe. The Bell Tower Club’s gregarious Head Chef, John McFee, happily created this dish for the readers of Bakersfield Magazine featuring fresh fruits grown in Kern County. Aren’t you special!
Chef John McFee creates a passionate dish sure to please.
Puff Pastry with Fresh Berries Sheet of Puff Pastry dough (found in your grocer’s freezer) 1 cup Heavy Cream spoon Vanilla 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar • 1 tea g (optional) 1 teaspoon Liquor or other flavorin season) in at’s Assorted Berries (use wh . Lightly roll out the puff pasPreheat your oven to 400 degrees e trying to make it per fectly try dough. Don’t spend a lot of tim Use a large cookie cutter or smooth, you just want it flattened. is pleasing to you and cut out pastry cutter in whatever shape ee used a heart (Editor’s Note: your dough. In this case, Chef McF n for 17-18 minutes. Cool the Awww). Bake the dough in the ove a smaller cutter to remove the pastry completely before using be your pastry cup. middle of the pastry. What’s left will and your optional liquor into Whip heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, heart-shaped pastry cup with soft peaks. Fill the inside of your top with berries. Chef McFee your whipped cream. Then, simply eberries, and raspberries. Feel used strawberries, blackberries, blu dust with powdered sugar or free to garnish with a mint sprig and ! cocoa powder for a little added flair 100 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
And Chef McFee assures us this recipe is a no-brainer. It’s quick, easy, and flavorful. That’s just what we’re looking for! It’s almost as if those qualities were the defining factors for the name of this feature. In any case, this delectable dessert is simply great for any special occasion. A baby shower, a wedding shower, a Tuesday night...any special occasion at all. Surprise someone tonight! n
Cuisine: sweets for the sweet
WHAT’S COOKIN’ By Mike Stepanovich
When only the freshest, finest ingredients will do, the question is...
one moo,
...or two?
beef patty is a half-pound at
Moo, I think you move me. But I want to know for sure. C’mon, feed me right. With apologies to The Troggs, Moo
Creamery does feed you right. The trendy ice cream and burger place at 4885 Truxtun Avenue—
least. It’s topped with Manchego cheese, slices of Spanish Jessica Pounds knows how to tempt your sweet tooth.
on a short spur just west of the railroad underpass—recently
chorizo sausage, date spread, pepper relish, and caramelized onions. It is unlike any burger I’ve ever had, and it’s delicious. Don’t even think of adding other condiments; this burger
celebrated its first year in business. Judging by reaction of local burghers, Moo
is perfect as it is, with the sweetness of the dates, peppers, and onions a
has staked a claim as one of the top dining destinations in Bakersfield.
perfect complement to the Manchego and the meat. It tastes so good, you
How “cud” it not be? Who has a beef with a place whose specialty is two
don’t want to get to the end.
of America’s favorite foods? The husband-and-wife team who own Moo
The Spanish Chorizo Burger is not only Jessica’s invention but also her favor-
Creamery, Jessica Pounds and Richard Yoshimura, weren’t cowed by the fact
ite burger on the menu. Richard, on the other hand, loves the 24-Hour Burger,
that the economy had just tanked when they opened their new restaurant
a concoction available, as its name implies, any time Moo is open, which is for
on Christmas Eve 2008. They believed that a restaurant whose focus was
breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The 24-Hour Burger ($8.95) has sharp cheddar, apple-
fresh, imaginative, and flavorful would find a niche in Bakersfield. Their faith has been rewarded. And now that I’ve milked the restaurant’s name for enough bad puns, let’s focus on the food: it’s first rate. Since burgers are the headliner, let’s start there, with the Spanish Chorizo Burger ($8.50). It’s a burger to savor. The beautifully-browned brioche bun is baked on the premises, as are all baked goods at Moo. The medium-rare
Moo’s ice cream is so fresh, you’ll think they milked the cow out back.
wood-smoked bacon, caramelized onions, arugula, “moo sauce,” and a fried egg. “I can eat it any time of the day,” Richard said. “I love the egg.” I haven’t tried it yet, but you can bet if one of the owners says it’s his favorite, it’s got to be good. Since I also love spicy Southwestern cuisine, I was immediately attracted, during a recent visit, to a new item on the menu: the Atomic Bacon >> 1950’s style diner, anyone? Get your nostalgia fix at Moo.
Cuisine: trendy temptations
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 101
Cuisine: trendy temptations Cheddar Burger ($8.50). This hottie comes with roasted
Richard went to culinary school after graduating and
jalapeños, Habanero ketchup, and chipotle mayonnaise. I
became a pastry chef. The two met when both wound up
asked my server, “just how spicy is this thing?” She allowed
at another popular Los Angeles restaurant, MILK. They fell
that it was pretty spicy, but that it was her current favorite on
in love and conceived a Los Angeles-style restaurant that
the menu. That was enough for me. And she was right: it was
they opened in Bakersfield.
delicious. It was plenty moist, and the spiciness was enough
“I wanted a burgers, ice cream, beer, and wine place,”
to get your attention but not overpower the flavor of the
Jessica said. “Richard brought pastries into the mix.”
meat; it complemented it. It’s a great addition to the menu.
While some might get the idea, based on the name,
Looking for a classic? Try the Monte Cristo sandwich
that Moo is a spin-off from MILK, the menu more re-
($7.95), a triple-decker with ham, turkey, and Gruyère
The savory and sweet Monte Cristo Sandwich is a winner.
flects Clementine’s influence. Jessica said one of the
coated in egg batter and deep fried. The finished sandwich
most important lessons she learned from Miller was
is dusted with powdered sugar and served with straw-
use the freshest, finest ingredients. She and Richard
berry preserves. I loved it!
will not compromise on quality. “We don’t take short-
Another sandwich that my wife, Carol, loved is the
cuts,” she said.
Grilled Pastrami Reuben ($8.50). It was topped with
Both are very involved in the restaurant’s operation.
sauerkraut and moo sauce. Carol’s not big on rye, but no
They collaborated on the menu, and are both there every
problem: a flavorful sourdough filled her bill.
day overseeing every aspect of the business.
And then there’s the ice cream ($2.95 a scoop, $4.25 for
They feel their success in the face of the worst econ-
two). The list has traditional favorites such as vanilla and
omy in 80 years can be attributed to quality food at fair
chocolate, but has some rather imaginative flavors as well.
prices. “Rather than a movie or going out of town on va-
Take the “Bacon Love” ice cream. Who ever heard of that?
cation, people are coming here,” Richard said. “Ice cream
Before Jessica dreamed it up, probably nobody. It’s creamy vanilla ice cream chuck full of chunks of bacon. The sweet and
If the Spanish Chorizo Burger can’t get you going, well, nothing will.
is an affordable luxury.” Plus most everyone loves a good burger. “You can
the salt are magic on the palate. Once you try it you’re hooked.
dress burgers up many different ways,” Jessica said. “You
“I made it up in LA for a friend who loved bacon,” Jessica
can get very creative with something that people are
said. “Everyone thought it was a joke, but they all loved it.”
very comfortable with.”
Jessica and Richard bill their eatery as “a modern Amer-
She added with a grin: “And people still don’t like to
ican soda fountain.” Certainly it has that appearance, with
cook.”
a red and black motif, red padded metal-tube chairs, and
Both love their new gig—Jessica the Bakersfield girl,
matching black tables. If you prefer the counter, you can
and Richard the Los Angeles native. “We love it here,” Rich-
slide onto a red stool just like you used to find at the five-
ard said. “This town is very community-oriented. People
and-dime lunch counters.
patronize us because we’re not a chain. They like that we’re
But the quality of the food sets Moo apart. Everything
locally owned.”
is made in-house from fresh ingredients. The milk for the ice cream comes from Straus Family Creamery, an organic dairy in Marin County. A specialty cheese supplier in Los Angeles
Perhaps their biggest surprise since opening has been Monday, Tuesday...every day is a good day for a Sundae.
the catering. “Prime rib dinners, filet dinners—we’ve done a lot,” Richard said. “We weren’t expecting it, but it’s a
provides top-quality cheeses. The duo makes the airy batter
owner Annie Miller, a Cordon Bleu graduate who worked
for their onion rings (splendid!), and hand cut fresh potatoes
at Campanile, Spago, and La Brea Bakery before founding
The other surprise, for Richard at least, was Bakersfield’s
for their fries. They even make their own pickles!
Clementine in 2000. “Annie pretty much taught me every-
friendliness. “Total strangers say hi to you here,” he said. A
The couple came up with Moo’s concept after several
thing,” Jessica said, “front end, back end, customer service.”
moving experience, for sure.
years in the Los Angeles restaurant scene. While both are
“Clementine is one of the most influential restaurants
Moo is open daily; major credit cards accepted. For more
UCLA graduates, they didn’t meet at school. Jessica
in Los Angeles,” Richard said. “Jessica was there six years,
information, call (661) 861-1130 or visit Moo’s website at
learned the restaurant business at Clementine from its
learning at the school of hard knocks.”
www.moocreamery.com. n
102 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
good problem to have.”
Entertaining the Bakersfield Way By Tom Xavier Can you smell that? Romance is in the air! Each year in February, we celebrate St. Valentine’s Day. Around these parts, though, it seems we want to stretch that one special day into a week, a month, or a season.
romance & raspberries OK, that might be a stretch. Still, there is no reason to confine the celebration to one day. You don’t even have to do something on the day itself...the entire season is ripe for romance. Think flowers, an over-sized stuffed animal delivered to their office, or just a simple hand-written note secretly tucked away in their pocket for them to find sometime during the day. Spread the love...and spread it out over the month of February! While gifts and surprises are wonderful options, it seems the most popular way to celebrate love is by cooking a meal for two. Whether it is breakfast in bed, a quaint picnic lunch at a local park, or that homemade romantic dinner, the best way to show your love is through food. This type of gift can be orchestrated even if you’re short on time. Try setting up your kitchen table, even your dining room table, for two. The food can be ordered from your favorite restaurant and served on your own dishes...simply call and have food delivered. You could even order
DSweets for a Sweetheartd Simple, yet divine Flourless Cake!
Garlic-n-He Cheese Chic rb with Sun D ken ried Tomatoes
it that day and pick it up on the way home from the office. Or, if you’re lucky enough to have a good cook as a friend, hit them up for a favor. Ask them to prepare a menu for you. Even if you add a little parsley to the entrées, or some shaved chocolate to the dessert, you can take credit! You did prepare it, after all. However, if you are ambitious, and decide to do it all, here is a great menu to work from and some helpful hints for preparing your delectably romantic dinner for two. >>
CUISINE : love is in the air
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 103
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CUISINE : love is in the air On the day of your dinner, start things off by dropping by your favorite deli and picking up some meat and cheeses. Have the deli slice a baguette for you, too. Arrange everything on a festive platter with some fresh fruit. Grapes work great; you can start the romance by feeding them to one another. Crack open a bottle of bubbly of your choice, serve in your best champagne glasses, and prepare to enjoy a magical evening. Don’t forget the iTunes mix you’ve prepared for just this occasion...with all your romantic songs, of course. Now, on to the food...the reason we’re all here, right? A savory chicken dish works very well as a main course. The following recipe is simple, flavorful, and will impress just about anyone. Garlic-n-Herb Goat Cheese Chicken with Sun Dried Tomatoes 3 boneless chicken breasts, skin-on 4 to 5 oz. garlic-n-herb goat cheese 3 sun-dried tomatoes, julienned Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Good olive oil Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Place the chicken breasts on a sheet pan. Loosen the skin from the meat with your fingers, leaving one side attached. Cut the goat cheese into 1/2-inch-thick slices and place 1 or 2 slices plus 1/3 of the julienned sun-dried tomatoes under the skin of each chicken breast. Pull the skin over as much of the meat as possible so the chicken won’t dry out. With your fingers, rub each piece with olive oil, and sprinkle them very generously with salt and pepper. Bake the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes, until the skin is lightly browned and the chicken is just cooked through. Serve hot or at room temperature. And you can’t have meat without potatoes! Rather than going through the hassle of mashing or peeling your spuds, try tiny fingerlings. They’re quick to cook and easy to eat. Plus, they’ll complement your chicken with subtle spices, rather than overpowering it. Dill Fingerling Potatoes 2 tbsp. unsalted butter 1 1/4 lbs. fingerling potatoes, rinsed, not peeled 1 tsp. kosher salt 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 tbsp. chopped fresh dill
104 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large heavybottomed pot. Add the whole potatoes, salt, and pepper, and toss well. Cover the pot tightly and cook over low heat for 20 to 30 minutes, until the potatoes are just tender when tested with a small knife. From time to time, shake the pot without removing the lid to prevent the bottom potatoes from burning. Turn off the heat and allow the potatoes to steam for another five minutes. Don’t overcook. Toss with the dill, and serve hot. Don’t forget your veggies. An elegant side to your chicken is asparagus. Asparagus is easy to prepare, no matter what style you like. But I recommend keeping it simple.
Delicious Dill Fingerling Potatoes
You’ll love the Roasted Asparagus
Roasted Asparagus 1 lb. fresh asparagus Good olive oil Kosher salt, plus extra for sprinkling Freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Break off the tough ends of the asparagus and, if they’re thick, peel them. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, then toss to coat the asparagus completely. Spread the asparagus in a single layer and sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper. Roast the asparagus for 25 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
EAGLESON BODY WORKS, INC. Once your meal prep is underway, begin putting together your table setting. Create a setting that will be intimate with cloth napkins (no paper! Tacky, tacky) and candles that are low, like votives, which give a subtle and dreamy ambiance. Entertaining Tip: Never use scented candles during dinner; most of the time the scent is too strong and you cannot smell the sumptuous food you’ve slaved over (or in some cases, didn’t). Here’s a fun thought. Try combining the carefree attitude of a picnic with the romance of an intimate dinner. Try clearing a spot on your living room floor by your fireplace, throwing down a blanket, and having an indoor, elegant picnic. Not only is this romantic, but you get all the effects of a picnic without the ants. Sprinkle flower petals on the blanket to add a passionate element or heart confetti to add a whimsical effect. No matter what you decide to do, be inventive, imaginative, and be daring. What about all those things you have thought about doing to show that extra special someone how much you care? Now is the perfect time to do it! Throw caution to the wind! You might just surprise yourself on what a success it will really be. You don’t even have to break the bank (especially in this economy), be a gourmet cook, or even be the most creative person on the planet. With just a little preparation and willingness, it can be done. But let’s not leave out the pièce de résistance: dessert. Nothing says “I Love You” like a chocolate cake. And nothing says “Easy” like a flourless chocolate cake. Flourless Chocolate Cake: 8 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar • 6 eggs 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/3 cup brandy Powdered sugar, sifted, for garnish Seasonal berries, for garnish Whipped Cream Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-inch spring form pan with baking spray. Line the bottom of the pan with a circle of parchment paper and spray again. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate and butter, constantly stirring until
fully incorporated. Remove from heat and set aside. In a large bowl, add the sugar and eggs. Using a handheld mixer, beat together until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes). While mixing, slowly add cocoa powder, salt, vanilla extract, and brandy. Add the chocolate mixture and blend until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a thin crust forms on the top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with few crumbs attached. Remove and cool in the pan on a baker’s rack. Invert onto a cake plate and remove parchment paper. Dust with powdered sugar and arrange seasonal berries in a pleasing fashion on and around the cake. Serve with Whipped Cream. Whipped Cream: 1 cup whipping cream 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract With a hand-held mixer, beat the cream until soft peaks form. Add the sugar and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Remember, presentation is everything. It doesn’t matter what route you decide to go as long as you do it with style and flair...make it memorable; make it fabulous! Celebrate this passionate and loving day with that very special person. Remember, romance is in the air... n
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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 105
bottoms up!
blue magic
Quick Year Established: 1948 Facts Address: 2303 River Blvd.
Happy Hour: 2 - 7pm, Mon - Fri
By Jason Gutierrez Nothing compares to a Frank Amestoy original cocktail. Mod-
Originally, the drink was crystal clear, but now it’s looking a little blue.
ern is cool (and usually trendy) but sometimes you have to go
“That’s the magic of the Blueberry Kamikaze,” he says. “No one knew what
off the beaten path in order to find true hidden treasures.
was in it. Since then, the Schnapps we use has been dyed blue, so the drink
That’s the case with one of Bakersfield’s favorite bars, Amestoy’s On The
has a blue color to it. Still, we like to keep the exact recipe in the family. My dad
Hill. Amestoy’s has a deep-seated history in Bakersfield stemming from its
made drinks the way he thought they would taste good, and it works. That’s
origins in 1948 when Frank Amestoy, Jr., and his wife, June, started this
why you’ll always have a Frank’s original when you walk into Amestoy’s.” n
long-lasting local business. Now owned and operated by Frank Amestoy, IV, the family tradition of unique cocktails and hometown charm continues to be the place’s mainstay, just as Frank, Jr. established during the course of his over 50 years tending bar and socializing with locals at his namesake establishment.
Although the actual recipe is secret, Frank shared the ingredients with us
Lime Juice • 7-up Blueberry Schnapps
Sure you’ve had a Kamikaze before, but have you ever had a Blueberry Kamikaze from Amestoy’s? Frank, IV says the Blueberry Kamikaze was originally invented for the ladies who strolled into the bar and wanted something simple and sweet. Soon after, the men followed suit. “It’s a great drink,” he says. “It’s simple to make and we pour heavy. It’s no surprise men and women like this concoction.” The ingredients call for 7-Up, Lime Juice, and clear Blueberry Schnapps. Frank’s not wanting to give up the exact recipe so you’ll have to venture into Amestoy’s to try it out for yourself. But trust us, this drink is smooth! 106 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
drink: the color of delicious
LIFE IS A CABERNET
a taste from the heart
By Mike Stepanovich
Cathy Corison is a bit anachronistic—and thank goodness! If you like wines that ooze finesse and elegance, that are eminently collectible, that age gracefully and just taste darn good, then Corison Winery, in the heart of Napa Valley, is your kind of place. In a wine world that’s gone big—ultra-ripe
just how extraordinary California wines could be.
fruit, high alcohol, instant gratification—Corison is
But then some winemakers got the idea from
a throwback to another era. Back in the 1980s and
some critics that bigger was better, so they started
“I love wine,” she said at a recent session of the
early ‘90s, California wine was all about refinement.
harvesting their grapes at 27, 28, 29 degrees Brix
Yosemite Vintners’ Holidays in Yosemite National
A wine’s power didn’t come from the alcohol level,
(the measure of the grapes’ sugar level), and
Park. “I fell in love with it as a sophomore in college
but from its structure, its balance, and harmony.
producing wines that, in some cases, topped 16
when I took a wine appreciation course. It’s delicious;
Vintages such as 1987, 1991, and 1994 showed
percent alcohol.
it makes food taste terrific, and it’s a delight to share
The world embraced big, but not Cathy. She Corison’s wines focus on harmony, not alcohol content.
look for the things that Cathy is doing, the things that attracted her to wine in the first place.
with friends.”
continued harvesting her grapes at 24 to 25 degrees
That class at Pomona College in Claremont
Brix and produced harmonious wines between 13
changed her life. After graduating with a degree
and 14 percent alcohol. Her wines are a complex
in biology, she packed her bags and headed for the
symphony of flavors: a soothing andante, an expres-
University of California, Davis where she earned a
sive allegro, a soaring finale—all in the same glass.
master’s degree in enology.
My bet is that the wine pendulum will eventually
She began her career at Freemark Abbey Winery,
swing back toward Cathy because people will realize
just north of St. Helena, in 1978. From there she
there’s more to wine than just alcohol. And they’ll
went to Chappellet Winery in Napa Valley for 10 >>
Napa Valley’s Corison Winery Owner Cathy Corison is fermenting success at this quaint winery.
Photos courtesy corison winery
wine: elegance in a glass www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 107
The Womens Care Center Armi Lynn Walker, M.D. Cary Shakespeare, M.D.
wine: elegance in a glass vintages as winemaker, then made the first two vintages at Staglin Family Vineyards. She also did 10 vintages each at York Creek Vineyards and at Long Meadow Ranch. Her more than 30 years making wine in the Napa Valley gave her a clear understanding of its vineyards and soils. She came to two realizations: • “I wanted to make wine on a world stage, and Napa Valley was one of the great places in
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the world to make wine.” • “There was a wine inside me I wanted to make. My heart was in wines made from the Rutherford Bench, so I went there to look for grapes for my own wine.” In 1987 she founded Corison Winery, located just south of St. Helena on the west side of Highway 29. It’s a true family winery: Cathy’s husband, William Martin, designed the building, keeps all the equipment humming, does the books and accounting, and keeps the computers up and running. After years of making wines for others, Cathy, a cabernet specialist, now makes the wines
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she always envisioned. “It’s a wonderful, creative outlet to be an artisan winemaker,”she said. “A good wine can be made by committee, but a great wine can’t. A wine has a personality, heart, and soul. I want my wines to have power on one hand and elegance on the other.”
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Three vineyards on the Rutherford Bench, that gentle slope of the western Napa Valley between St. Helena and Rutherford, help her achieve that. “All three vineyards are on alluvial, well-drained soils,” she said. “They’re very gravelly. You can almost mine for gravel there.” Which is great for grape growing, because the sparse soils
“Wine has a life, even after bottling. At one level it’s alchemy, magic. That’s what makes it so special. It’s alive at every level. And it’s my job to make the vineyard speak.” –Cathy Corison force the vines to go deep for water and nutrients. “It’s the best soil in the world for cabernet sauvignon.” Because the vines put all their effort into producing great fruit. “You can’t make the wine any better than what comes in the door [at harvest],” she said. “You can’t turn bad tannins into good tannins. The tannins protect the wine by keeping oxidation slow, and they’re important for the texture of the wine.
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(661) 327-2622 1001 Tower Way, Suite 130, Bakersfield, CA 93309 108 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital B a k e r s f i e l d m a g a z i n e S P E C I A L A D V ER T I S ING S E C T I O N
“Wine has a life, even after bottling. It’s an extremely complex soup. At one level it’s alchemy, magic. That’s what makes it so special. It’s alive at every level. And it’s my job to make the vineyard speak.” The vineyards don’t speak—at least not as well—when fruit gets too ripe. “Bigger wines don’t age better,” she said. “They need stuffing, something there to age. They need acid and tannins.” The vineyards do speak in Corison’s cabernets. Taste them and you taste a little of that magic she talked about. Her wines are soft, yet with a focused intensity that comes from the splendid acid structure. And that goes back to the soil. “I purchased a small piece of that soil,” she said, when in 1996 she purchased the eight-acre Kronos Vineyard. “It’s the last old cabernet sauvignon vineyard in the Napa Valley. It’s on St. George rootstock, so it didn’t need to be replanted” as a result of the phyloxera scourge that ravaged Napa Valley in the 1980s and ‘90s. Continued on page 113 >>
Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina
Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe
Celebrating its 23rd anniversary, this fast casual restaurant sets the standard for Tex-Mex in Bakersfield. “Cowboy Grub” is the description for slow roasted pit beef, mesquite smoked tri-tip, garlic chicken, multiple salads including the most popular taco salad. Chocolate cake nobody leaves without. “This ain’t no refried bean kinda joint.” Hours Mon-Sat 11am to 8pm. Closed Sundays. 1710 Oak St. www.jakestexmex.com (661)322-6380
Café Med
24th Street Café
NEW LOWER PRICES! For a cozy, intimate setting and fine dining with a unique atmosphere, Café Med is the place to go. Choose a selection from our extensive menu and your taste buds will surely be satisfied. Start off with an appetizer-perhaps you might try our Grilled Shrimp Cocktail or Hummus with Lamb Meat-a house specialty. Then choose from a variety of entrées including Mediterranean salads, steaks or even pasta. An excellent dish to try is our Fisherman’s Pasta-a mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams & the catch of the day sautéed in a tomato, basil and mushroom cream sauce. Come by Café Med today. Open 7 days a week 11am-close. Live music on Friday & Saturday nights. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 4809 Stockdale Hwy. cafemedrestaurant.com. (661)834-4433
The Orchid
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of traditional Thai flavors and modern twists, The Orchid is the place to try. With mouthwatering specialty dishes like Red Curry Rib-Eye Steak and our Lamb Chop with Spicy Mango Sauce, we dare you to find a restaurant offering more pow for your buck. We offer take-out and catering services, but our elegant dining room is perfect for a lunch meeting or an intimate night out—and you should get there early to find a seat by the soothing waterfall! Daily lunch specials include many classic Thai entrées like Panang Curry and Crunchy Cashew stir fry, a sweet and spicy dish made with onions, bell peppers, water chestnuts, and roasted cashews. Join us Mon-Thu from 11am-10pm or Fri & Sat from 11am-11pm. 9500 Brimhall Road. (661)587-8900
With a list of daily specials a mile long, we have been a local favorite for over 20 years and continue bringing Bakersfield the good eats. From our classic homemade soups and comfort foods like meatloaf, to our sandwiches, omelets, and salads, we make everything fresh. Wrap your mouth around the tri-tip pasta with mushrooms, green onions, and a creamy garlic sauce. Or better yet, visit us for breakfast and you won’t forget it! We’ve got banana rum crepes, savory Portobella mushroom omelets, cinnamon apple pancakes, and so much more. But don’t leave without trying our Famous Rum Bloody Mary. It’s good for what ails ‘ya! Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, 6am-2:30pm. www.24thstcafe.com. 1415 24th Street. (661)323-8801
Wool Growers Restaurant
Come to Wool Growers downtown in Old Kern for a dining experience you won’t forget! We serve delicious Basque cuisine and also have an excellent wine list. Much more than a culinary experience, within the walls of this restaurant, you are our family and you’ll be served delicious & abundant food in a warm, inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm, 6-9:30pm. Closed Sunday. 620 E. 19th Street. Reservations are accepted by fax, (661)327-4440, and phone, (661)327-9584
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 109
The Dining Guide
Enjoy all the flavors of Mexico at Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina. Select from our large selection of seafood and vegetarian specialties, or choose your favorite classic south-of-the-border dish. Whether you’re in the mood for fajitas, carnitas or just a couple of tacos, Mauricio’s Old World ambiance offers a relaxed atmosphere for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch (Rosedale restaurant). Join us for Happy Hour in our full bar, 3-7pm, daily. We also offer outdoor patio dining and a banquet room for large groups. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10:30pm, Sundays 10am-9:30pm. Two locations to serve you: 10700 Rosedale Hwy. (661)589-5292 and 6401 White Lane (661)837-9570
Hungry Hunter
The Dining Guide
Yes, we have the best prime rib in town, but we’re so much more than a great steakhouse. Come in for lunch and enjoy our fresh ground 1/2lb. Angus Burgers or a homemade infused salmon burger. We’ve got soups and salads as well to complement our many entrées. Our dinner menu is just as varied with Australian lobster tails and fettuccine alfredo. Our delicious steaks are hand cut to ensure the freshest steak possible, so wrap your mouth around our black & bleu ribeye, or a tender filet mignon. We offer a great wine list that is sure to pair with any meal. Locally owned and operated. Happy hour: Mon-Fri, 2-6pm, Hours: Mon-Fri, Lunch 11:30am-3pm, Dinner 3-10pm, Saturdays 4:30-10pm, Sundays 12-9pm. 3580 Rosedale Hwy. hungryhuntersteakhouse.com (661)328-0580
Luigi’s Restaurant & Italian Delicatessen
Enjoy an old world Italian delicatessen since 1910 with over 200 wines to complement your lunch. From sandwiches to Pasta Bolognese, you’re sure to find flavorful choices to make everyone happy! Don’t forget to shop the gourmet delicatessen for unique gift ideas, wine and authentic foods. Restaurant Hours: Tue-Sat 11am2:30pm, Deli Hours: Tue-Sat 8am-4pm. 725 East 19th Street. shopluigis.com (661)322-0926
Benji’s French Basque
Benji’s offers something a little different from Bakersfield’s Basque fare. In addition to traditional Basque entrées of lamb, chicken, veal and beef, Benji’s has pan-fried frog legs with garlic lemon sauce, lobster tail, roasted duck, escargots and calf liver. And the beef isn’t just tri-tip; Benji’s serves a scrumptious filet mignon and New York steak with pepper cognac sauce. All dinners are served with the customary Basque family style set-up. Don’t forget Benji’s specialty soufflés flavored with Grand Marnier, raspberry, chocolate or lemon. Basque family owned and operated for 20 years. Banquet facilities available. Conveniently located 2 blocks west of Highway 99 at 4001 Rosedale Hwy. Open daily 11:30am-2pm and 5:30-9:30pm except Tuesdays. Lounge opens 11am. (661)328-0400
Guild House
Enjoy one of Kern County’s most elegant historical homes while you dine! The Guild House Restaurant is open for lunch and special events, including teas, weddings, anniversary parties, and showers. Be sure to ask about our special events menu, too! However, if you stop in for a classy lunch, you’ll be treated to an ever-changing menu of home-cooked soups, salads, and delicious entrées prepared by Guild House members. By dining at the Guild House, you’ll be contributing to a great cause as all the money raised goes to the Henrietta Weill Memorial Child Guidance Clinic to help children in our area dealing with emotional, behavioral, or family difficulties. Lunch is served September through June from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Reservations are recommended. 1905 18th Street. (661)325-5478
Frugatti’s Italian Wood-Fired Oven
Real Italian by Real Italians! Whether dining in or al fresco on our new patio, come in and enjoy our new menu that’s bursting with flavor for lunch, dinner or just dessert. You’ll love our steaks. We use only the highest quality Certified Angus Brand® Beef. You’ll also love our chicken, seafood and pizzas cooked in our imported Italian wood-burning oven. We also offer a wide selection of pasta dishes and other Italian favorites. For dessert try our homemade New York cheesecakes or Tiramisu. Come experience our friendly atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 11:30am-10pm, Sunday 11:30am-9pm. All major credit cards accepted. 600 Coffee Rd., corner of Truxtun and Coffee. frugattis.com (661)836-2000
110 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
El Portal West
We invite you to enjoy our newest Mexican Grill and Cantina, El Portal West. We offer a great selection of appetizers, soups & salads, seafood, and our specialties are chicken, steak and shrimp fajitas. Our full service bar features the best margaritas in town! Happy Hour Mon-Fri 3-7pm (bar only), Lunch specials everyday, 11am-2pm. Fabulous Sunday Brunch, 10am-3pm, reservations accepted. 1100 Calloway Drive. (661)829-2737
Hourglass Kitchen & Bar
Hourglass Kitchen & Bar offers a wide variety of choices to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds. Our popular appetizer, yellow tail tuna tartar served with avocado salsa, is just one of the many favorites. Make your reservations for Valentine’s Day for our Sweetheart Menu for two. Located at the corner of Calloway & Brimhall. Open Mon-Sat 11am-10pm for dining and open for dancing & late night cocktails. Happy Hour 3pm-10pm. Also available for large parties & catering. Closed Sundays. (661)679-1977
Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar
A unique dining experience in Bakersfield, offering delicious foods and wines. A welcoming environment in the tradition of the neighborhood bistro. From taking that special someone out for an exquisite dinner, to hosting a staff lunch; Valentien can accommodate you. Seafood, Poultry, Beef, Exotic Game, Vegetarian; French Cuisine Fused with California Freshness. Known for our amazing sauces, and delectable dishes; everything is made from scratch. Including the desserts! With a Sommelier on staff, we feature an extensive wine list, primarily focusing on French and Californian wines. At Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, we believe that service is of utmost importance. A knowledgeable staff will guide your dining experience with grace and ease. We look forward to serving you. OPEN for LUNCH FIVE DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm. OPEN for DINNER SEVEN NIGHTS A WEEK: Sun-Thur 5pm-9pm Fri & Sat 5pm-9pm. All major credit cards accepted. Reservations recommended but not required. 3310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160, 93301 (661) 864-0397
www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 111
The Dining Guide
Caesar’s Italian Delicatessen
A Bakersfield tradition since 1970, Caesar’s Italian Delicatessens have been serving fine Italian food for over 35 years. Our family owned Delis serve quality Sandwiches, Soups, and Salads. We are a full service deli and carry a wide variety of cheeses, meats, and specialty items. We have a large variety of Salads including our famous Pickled Tongue. Pastas are prepared in house using sauces from Nonna’s (grandma’s) Old Italian Recipes. Come in and pick up a tray to take home. Catering is also available for your next event, small office parties, large events & weddings, and includes Party Trays, Pastas, Sandwiches, Tri-Tip Deep Pit Beef, Chicken, or just Appetizers. Ask for a catering menu. 2828 Niles St. (East Bakersfield) (661)873-0270, or 9500 Brimhall Rd. #304 (Rosedale area) (661)588-7004
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
Grandview Asian Cuisine
The Dining Guide
Take a trip to the Far East in this amazing restaurant located on the corner of Ming and Ashe. Try Grandview’s for a delicious variety of Asian cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere. Dine on some of the best Dim Sum Bakersfield has to offer while listening to the gentle splash of a waterfall. Whether you have a craving for fine Asian dining, or desire a place to unwind after work, Grandview Asian Cuisine provides the perfect place to get away. Hours: 10am-9pm daily. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 2217 Ashe Road, Bakersfield. (661)832-2288
Big Popy’s Deli
Nothing beats a Big Popy’s pastrami on rye! Unless, of course, you select one of the other wonderful sandwiches prepared fresh at this classic deli. With a cornucopia of fresh ingredients to choose from, you’re bound to find what you’re craving, whether it’s a Turkey Avo-Bacon Melt with fresh turkey, avocado, bacon, dried tomato-garlic aioli, and melted cheddar grilled to perfection on Squaw bread, or the delectably chic Prosciutto sandwich made with thinly-sliced, aged Prosciutto, grilled pears, and Brie cheese. But for the carb-watchers, Big Popy’s boasts tantalizingly rich salads made with salmon, crab, chicken, or tri-tip. Dine in and enjoy the ambiance and an old-time soda in the bottle! Open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm, 1927 20th Street (661)327-3354; and Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Saturday 8am-6pm, 1660 Pine Street (661)869-2506
VIP Mongolian BBQ
When you’re in the mood for a taste of Mongolia, shimmy your way to VIP Mongolian BBQ for delicious flavors from the east. It’s the only place in town where you can get authentic Mongolian-style cuisine. You get your choice of meats, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces. Once chosen, their chef cooks your personalized order on a grill. With a menu full of healthy options, including Mediterranean fare like kebabs and salads, there is something for everyone. Party specials include pork chops, lamb chops and a variety of kebabs. You can pick up your order or have VIP cater the affair for you. If you dine in, partake of their Hookah Lounge for a night of culture and fun. Join them Mon-Sat from 11am-10pm. 818 Real Road, behind the Days Inn Hotel. (661)326-9077
Que Pasa
Enjoy the famous Que Pasa Party Platter. Great for any occasion and it feeds up to 10 people. When dining in, explore our menu of traditional Mexican favorites infused with fresh flavors and try the flavorful grilled Angus steak fajitas. And nothing quenches your thirst like a classic, hand-made margarita. To ensure the “perfect margarita,” we use only the highest quality ingredients, like 100 percent agave tequilas and our special agave nectar. Valley Plaza Location, 2701 Ming Ave # 219, 832-5011. Hours: Mon-Thu 10:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sunday 10:30am-9pm. Marketplace Location, 9000 Ming Ave # F4, 664-1400. Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm
The Nines Restaurant
Located inside the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, The Nines is a great place for business lunches with our new lunch menu that features 14 delicious selections under $10. Our dinner menu boasts old favorites as well as nightly dinner specials, including Tuesday Prime Rib Night and Saturday Date Night Menus. The beautiful Private Dining Room can seat up to 12 and is a great place for that intimate dinner with family, friends or clients. Call ahead and our executive chef is happy to whip up a custom menu just for you. Reservations recommended but not required. Hours are Mon-Sun 6:30am-2pm and 5-10pm. 801 Truxtun Ave. (661)565-9319
Uricchio’s Trattoria
Nestled in the heart of Downtown in the historical Haberfelde Building. Steaks, chops, seafood, and classic Italian dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list, have made Uricchio’s a mainstay for over a decade. Uricchio’s San Francisco style setting is family owned and operated, and the perfect spot for a business lunch, or a romantic dining experience. After your meal save room for the fabulous desserts from LaMousse of Beverly Hills. ASK ABOUT OUR MONDAY SPECIALS! Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Thu 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Reservations recommended, lunch reservations for large groups only. www. uricchios-trattoria.com. 1400 17th St. Downtown. (661)326-8870
112 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
wine: elegance in a glass
Continued from page 108
RJ’s Bar and Grill
Established in 2002, RJ’s was developed by Jason Cox and Russ Carter to bring a local casual dining experience to Bakersfield that would fit the needs of the community and reflect the family-friendly atmosphere of Bakersfield. The owners and staff of RJ’s take pride in the great food and service they provide to each guest. RJ’s would like to welcome you to join them for lunch, dinner, weekend breakfast, a sporting event or some late-night fun with great friends! At RJ’s there is something for everyone…whether it is one of our premium quality mid-western steaks, a unique appetizer, freshly tossed salad or the giant Fatboy Burger you are sure to be impressed! Hours: 11am-2am MonFri, 9am-2am Sat & Sun. Kitchen closes 9pm Sun-Th & 10pm Fri & Sat. Happy Hour M-F 3pm-6pm. rjsbarandgrill.com. 9440 Hageman Rd, Ste C. (661)587-4723
The tank room at Corison is where the magic happens.
The Kronos Vineyard, nearing 40 years old, is Corison’s flagship vineyard, and Cathy makes a vineyard-designated wine from its sparse fruit. “The vines are old, and their roots are deep,” she said. As a result “they handle heat spells better.”The spacing is old, about 600 vines to the acre, and it only yields about a ton to the acre. keep the soils alive. I don’t spray [insecticides], and I use cover crops,” she said. Cover crops are plants that host beneficial insects and that add organic matter to the soils. “When I first farmed it, the vineyard was low in nitrogen, so I added organic fertilizer. Now I don’t have to add fertilizer.”
Izumo Japanese Restaurant & Sushi
Variety and style is what you can expect at Izumos. Experience our casual atmosphere where you have your choice of dining experiences. Visit us to enjoy the teppan-yaki, sample the sushi bar, or our more conventional order-off-the-menu setting. The teppan-yaki comes one dish at a time as the chef prepares it in front of you - they will amaze and impress with their skill and expertise. Our relaxed dining gives customers a chance to really enjoy our food and friendly service. Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Sun 5-10pm. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE. 4412 Ming Ave. (661)398-0608
Her wines are always a treat. A recent tasting of her various vintages showed Corison’s wines age gracefully with charm and appeal. Her first wine, the 1987 Napa, is still gorgeous. And the rest, as far as I can tell, are still ascending. Among them: • 1996 Napa—a long, cool ripening season with perfect weather allowed the fruit to mature slowly and evenly. The result is a wine of harmony and character. • 1998 Kronos—a challenging vintage that began a month late, was cool during the growing season, and was picked late, in October and November. I call this California’s Bordeaux vintage: the wines are tight, but with good flavors and will reward the patient collector. • 2000 Napa and Kronos—another long season (“A perfect growing season,” Cathy says)—led to impeccable wines. These are soft, elegant, flavorful wines that will enhance any meal. • 2002 Napa—Delicious, deep, with intense berry flavors that expand as the wine breathes. “I’m on a mission to keep the ‘table’ in table wine,” she said. “It’s an important part of gracious living.” You can visit the winery either on-line at www.corison.com, or call (707) 963-0826 to make an appointment. The winery is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and visitors with an appointment are always welcome. n
Bon appétit Bakersfield Magazine Dining Guide
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Mike Stepanovich is an award-winning journalist who has been writing his Life is a Cabernet wine column since 1985, and reviewing restaurants for Bakersfield Magazine since 1997. Stepanovich has taught wine and food pairing classes for many years, and teaches a wine appreciation and history class for California State University, Bakersfield. He began judging wines in 1987, and now judges at major international wine competitions throughout the United States. A home winemaker, Stepanovich resides with his wife, Carol, in Bakersfield. www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Bakersfield Magazine 113
The Dining Guide
Cathy, who prefers being known as a winegrower, farms the vineyard organically. “I try to
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arts council of kern
Have you ever thought about how you appreciate a painting? How you absorb the notes and lyrics of a song?
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are conscious on our part; we simply look at the painting and listen to the song and come away feeling moved. But for most of us, our responses to art come from a long life of exposure. We learned to mix colors in kindergarten, we had the chance to sing songs and play instruments in elementary school, and we were exposed to famous works of art and their cultural significance in high school and college. The arts were all around us. And we were lucky. Whether or not we went on to a career in the arts, most of us have some knowledge in the universal form of expression known as “the arts.” It could be that you enjoy painting as a hobby. You crochet or knit in your spare time. You play drums in a garage band with your buddies. You
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may not recognize it as such, but what you’re doing is art. That fact is something the Arts Council of Kern is working so hard to bring to the city’s attention. “Artwork has been telling the story of civilization for centuries,” Jeanette Richardson Parks explained. “Without the arts, we wouldn’t be able to understand ancient societies, or even know our own history.” As the director for the Arts Council >>
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“ Artwork has been telling the story of civilization for centuries. Without the arts, we wouldn’t be able to understand ancient societies, or even know our own history.” –Jeanette Richardson Parks
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of Kern, Parks is passionate about many things when it comes to art in our community. Her mission is to expose Bakersfield and Kern County to the best and brightest artists around in order to enrich our lives. At the forefront of that mission is bringing art back to children. That’s why many of the programs instituted by the Arts Council of Kern involve children’s art sessions and workshops. And recently, the Arts Council became the Kern County affiliate
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“ Exposure to art has been linked with critical thinking skills in children and young adults. And it’s such a simple thing to do.” for the Young Audiences Arts4Learning. “The main goal of this partnership is to use the arts to teach literacy in our area,” Parks elaborated. “We found out that if we don’t take art into the schools, children aren’t getting any exposure to it at all.” And that exposure is important. According to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, high school students who take arts classes have higher math and verbal SAT scores than students without arts classes. Those scores can determine a student’s chances at higher education. “Art is a core curriculum,” Parks stressed. “It is a subject that is highly engaging for children. It can keep them excited about learning; it can keep them in school.” Not to mention the fact that art is a wonderful medium for children who have developmental disabilities or those who have suffered a traumatic experience. “We’ve seen children who are unwilling or unable to talk communicate through art. They’ll draw or paint how they’re feeling.” However, current funding problems are inhibiting the way teachers can include art in their present curriculum. That is why Parks and the entire staff at the Arts Council works so hard to raise money for arts education in our community. The reasoning behind the cuts, while important, is not what Parks is trying to fight directly. Rather, she is urging people to understand the importance of the arts in schools, so they will seek to keep them alive. 118 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
art were auctioned off. Attending these types of events is just one way members of the community can actually make an impact. That’s all Parks and the Arts Council of Kern ask; that members of our community step up to help continue bringing art back
When children have the opportunity to express themselves through art, there’s no telling what they’ll accomplish.
into the classroom, where it can help to enrich the lives of Kern County’s youngest citizens. Because it is sorely needed. At one summer program, Parks recalls her shock when a third-grader expressed not knowing what two colors mixed together make green.
and education, the Arts Council of Kern has seen that there is a need in our community—and they’re doing their best to fill that. All they need now is a little help. Just remember how you felt the first
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF KERN
“ Art is a core curriculum. It is a subject that is highly engaging for children. It can keep them excited about learning; it can keep them in school.” –Jeanette Richardson Parks
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“Art is invaluable to learning. We’re hearing this not only from institutes and organizations, but from school teachers in Bakersfield and the entire county,” Parks explained. “We put on an assembly in Taft for some special education students and afterward, teachers came up to us and said they hadn’t seen the students that engaged the entire year.” That type of success can’t be ignored. That’s why the success of Arts Council fund-raisers are so critical to the furthering of art education in our community. While art programs are being cut from schools, the Arts Council is doing what it can to bridge that gap. “We understand that budgets are tight,” Parks said. “And we agree that No Child Left Behind is good, but art is such an important subject. It shouldn’t be dropped.” So the Arts Council has created special events to gather funds so that it can deliver some of those art programs back into our schools. Even if it’s only enough money to provide children with art supplies, to hire a musician to play for a classroom, or to teach students basic color patterns. One of their biggest events is ARTini. No doubt you’ve heard about it. This past November saw the second annual celebration of art and community. Not only were local bartenders asked to create a signature martini, but local artists were asked to submit martini-inspired art. At the end of the decadent evening, filled with martini tastings and delectable hors d’oeuvres, a winning martini was selected and the fabulous works of
A sheet of paper and some paints...a recipe for creativity.
“The importance of exposing children to art and allowing them to express themselves through art is so huge. Exposure to art has been linked with critical thinking skills in children and young adults. And it’s such a simple thing to do. I urge all parents to bring their kids to our free galleries.” With a focus on access, advocacy,
time you saw a certain painting, or the first time you heard a song that touched you. Now think about how amazing it will feel if you can help give that experience to a child. If you’d like more information on Arts Council of Kern programs, or are interested in becoming a member, call them at (661) 324-9000 or visit kernarts.org. n
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SPOTLIGHT
active 20-30 club
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ACTIVE 20-30 CLUB OF BAKERSFIELD
If you’re interested in learning more about the Active 20-30 Club, visit active2030.org or email board@active2030. org. You can also stop by one of their weekly meetings on Tuesday at 12 p.m. at the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield. FIELD MAG RS
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“It’s the real reason we join,” said Jason Browder, the Club’s most recent president, and eight-year member. “It’s because we can truly see that we’re helping a child.” It’s no more apparent that these young men are making a significant impact in our community than when one hears about their Christmas Experience. “Some families have nothing during Christmas,” Cohen said. “So we want to deliver Christmas to them.” Members of the Club raise money to be able to give upwards of 200 children and their families a Christmas they’ll never forget. In addition Club members present a check to a tree and for $7,000 to the Police Activities League. decorations, the family is gifted a microwave, a $100-plus certificate for food, a ham from the Honeybaked Ham Company for dinner, and presents for the kids. “It can bring you to tears,” Cohen added. “You understand that by giving a little of your time, you’ve given something special to a child in need.
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not too often you see a group of 20-something men organizing for the sole purpose of raising money for children. But in Bakersfield, it’s pretty common. That’s because our city is home to a great group of young men dedicated to charity—and these men are members of the Active 20-30 Club. Founded in Bakersfield in 1928, our chapter has been giving children happier futures by hosting events and fund-raising out in the community. “The Club is made up of guys in their 20s and 30s who want to do something good for the underprivileged children in our community. They’re young business owners and managers and they know they can do some good. It’s true that you get out of it what you put into it,” said past president of the Active 20-30 Club and current Boys and Girls Club President Jason Cohen. That’s why these fellas are giving a lot. In addition to the always-popular Beer Fest in the Spring, the Active 20-30 Club works hard each year to host both a back-to-school drive, called Childspree, and the Christmas Experience. “For Childspree, we take 250 children school shopping. Last year, we took them to Kohl’s and gave them $100 each to buy new school clothes, backpacks, and shoes,” Cohen explained. “You can’t imagine the look on their faces when they realize they can wear new clothes to school for the first time in their life.”
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Active 20-30 Club member Paul Gordon (right) and his buddy during last year’s Childspree.
You’re always wanting to do more.” With the money they raise from Beer Fest, Cohen estimates they are able to help close to 500 children and their families each year through their events. But that’s not all the Club does. “Because so many of our members have learned such powerful lessons from being a part of the Club, they’ve been successful in their businesses as well,” Cohen explained. “These young professionals get very involved in the community through the Club and they become better leaders,” Browder added. The list of alumni is impressive. Young men that have gone on to play integral roles in Bakersfield business, but that also continue to give back. “Guys like Scott Garrison, the president of Lightspeed Systems; Dave Plivelich, president of The Marcom Group; and Dr. Don Montano, D.D.S.,” Cohen elaborated. “They’re past members who still find ways to give back to the community through nonprofit organizations.” “You get to help the children of Kern County and you get to make great friends while you do it,” Browder said. n
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BARC Magical Forest
Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and quirky crafts galore! Sprinkle in a little holiday spirit and you’ve got Bakersfield Association of Retarded Citizens’ annual Magical Forest. Children of all ages had hours of fun as they toured the BARC Campus, reveled in the mesmerizing displays, posed with Santa, and sang along with carols, while proceeds benefitted the great organization.
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Congratulations are in order for Downtown Business Association president Cathy Butler! She was recently honored by the Arts Council of Kern and fellow area businesses for her 35 years of dedication to furthering the development and retention of downtown. Yummy snacks set the stage for a rousing roast of Cathy before folks wished her many more years of happy service.
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It was a packed house at Valentien one starry night as art enthusiasts gathered to celebrate and enjoy some of the newest works from Bakersfield’s rising artists. Not only were attendees treated to wonderful wines and delicious, four-star appetizers as they admired the paintings on display, but they were able to mingle with the artists themselves.
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Buena Vista Museum of Natural History’s annual fund-raiser was a rousing affair! Guests dined on catered gourmet hors d’oeuvres, bid on fabulous silent and live auction items, and enjoyed entertainment courtesy of the Spotlight Theater. Afterward, awards were presented to the many volunteers who help further the museum’s mission. Here’s toasting the museum’s continued success!
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In celebration of its 90th anniversary, the Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce went all out! With almost 500 guests in attendance, this was no small event—there were cocktails and hors d’oeuvres during a lavish reception, and an exquisite dinner to wow the crowd. Afterward, a champagne toast was held to honor Rick Riley, the Chamber’s 2010 Chairman of the Board.
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Everyone had their game faces on when they arrived at this great benefit for the Boys & Girls Club. With delectable nibbles provided by Café Med and Mossman Catering, there wasn’t a frown to be found...especially after a Cartier scarf and a Venetian Mud Scrub were raffled off! The evening raised over $4,000 for the newest Club in town!
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bakersfield’s sound
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skyline is a wonderful thing. Whether it’s made up of hotels and skyscrapers or a lush, rolling hillside, a skyline often comes to define a city (think Manhattan). In the early ‘30s, downtown Bakersfield’s skyline was monopolized by the eight-story Padre Hotel, which had been masterfully erected in 1928. The extravagance of the Roaring ‘20s had come to an abrupt end with the crash of the stock market, and with that came a resurgence of simple necessities. Folks no longer sought extras...they sought basics. Still, the Padre stood tall. Businesses around the landmark offered coffee, tea, company, and Goodyear Tires. The streets were lined with Henry Ford’s mechanical marvels, which parked for free if they were patronizing a certain few businesses, one being the A & P and one being Padre Drug. Naturally, those businesses would change with the coming years. Markets would be replaced by boutiques; tire shops would be relocated to accommodate modern art galleries. Of course, the Padre Hotel would go on to make headlines throughout the course of our city’s history, ever a part of Bakersfield city life. Everything from hosting wedding receptions for World War II soldiers and their sweethearts before deployment, and scandalous stories of girls on swings in the lobby, to the highly publicized and infamous legal battles between Milton “Spartacus” Miller and the city of Bakersfield. Those headlines have done nothing to impact the presence of the Padre in the collective conscious of our city, which is why excitement is at an all-time high for its triumphant re-opening. Though the skyline has changed, and taller buildings have come to rise in front of the horizon, there is something special about the Padre Hotel and the enormous shadow it casts.
the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen. 130 Bakersfield Magazine / Presented by: Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
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