Bakersfield Magazine • 23-6 Sizzlin' Singles by Bakersfield Magazine

EXCLUSIVE We’re Starstruck The Perfect New Regular Feature! 2009 Insiders Guide Citizen Kern Ice Cream Party Going Green VOL. 26 NO. 3

YOUR CITY. YOUR LIFE. YOUR MAGAZINE.

They put off “I Dos” for “I Cans” ...meet this year’s

Sizzlin’ Singles plus...

do you remember your

First?

16 Professionals Share Theirs BakersfieldMagazine.net

All New Look & Feel!

SINGLES ISSUE

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Owning A Home of Your Own is Indeed

FIRSTS 2009

“THE GREAT AMERICAN DREAM!”

Contents

f e at u r e s

Hot line? Nah, a warm one will help

Nonprofit Spotlight..............18 A pitcher throwing us all for a cur ve

For some time now, Mary & Raul have been serving the residential and commercial real estate needs of the people in this area. Among the many listings available, you’re sure to find a home, condominium, acreage or investment property that suits your needs perfectly. If you are a first time buyer, they will be happy to assist and advise you in selecting your dream home. They will also assist you in arranging your mortgage, as well as other phases of real estate transactions. Join the many satisfied customers who consider Mary and Raul with Mary Cruz Realty their friends in the real estate field... You’ll be glad you did! • First Time Buyers • Post Foreclosure Homes • Loan Modification Programs • Credit Enhancement Programs • Representing–Arlington Park Residential Community With 44 Lots Now Available • Tax Credit of $8,000 Available until December 1, 2009

Mary Cruz 363-0038

Skilled Hands......................25 Silver Surfer Museum at Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort Encyclopedia Britannica—the Kern edition

Insiders Guide

Page

4500 California Avenue

Come on...spill the beans. Tell us yours

The March of Dimes is serving up seconds

Firsts.................................52

Chefs Event......................87

Find out why it’s easy to go GREEN

Here’s the scoop: homemade ice cream party

Bakersfield Magazine

Great Getaways

For these individuals, being single is a matter of choice. They’ve made the decision to put career and community first and let nothing stand in their way.

Raul Rodriguez 335-7600

Put their years of local experience to work for you!

The beach: why weekends were invented

Entertaining the Bakersfield way

Help the environment and your checkbook

Going Green

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FIRSTS 2009

Back to School Kerusso Tees 2 for $25

Contents

D E P ART M E N TS We always learn the most from our “firsts”

Letter from the Editor........13 All the “whosit” and “whatsit” fit to print

Kern Facts.........................15 Make your outfit pop with summer color

The Bakersfield Look.........27 This “big” savor y sandwich is the tops!

Quick Bites We took Charles Napier downtown

Get your roll on at this sushi hot-spot

What’s Cookin’................67

The actor who can put a scare into Rambo

Citizen Kern

Getting the forecast before weather.com

What’s the Word, Word, Weather Weather Bird?..31 Bird?..31

These wineries are pushing the boundaries

Risktakers........................33

Life is a Cabernet

Remember: document, document, document

Dining for charity never tasted so good

Injecting became the key to his success!

Human Resources..............37 Cool Recipe: Guava Jelly

The Lunch Bunch....................75 Put on your happy, younger-looking face!

Looking Good, Feelin’ Good....83 Adjust the shutter speed! We caught you

P a r t y C h a t t e r. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 2

KERUSSO

Available At Bobbi’s Hallmark Shop

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Q & A with your favorite garden queen

Gardening With mrs. p

What the three Rs of decorating can do

Home & Garden................61

Splish splash...they were taking a bath

Bakersfield’s Sound

106

, DDS

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Singles 2009

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS FIRSTS 2009

home & Garden resources

Home & Garden....................61

The Dining Guide The Dining Guide.....................77

Looking Good, Feelinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Good.....83

Partners

Community

Community Partners..............85

Green

Pages

Green Pages.....................94

MEDICAL PROFILES Medical Profiles.....................96

Kern Health Resource Guide...97

Shoppers Bazaar..................98

Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory Worship Directory................100

everafters... Weddings............................101

Corporate R elocation plus...

The

ISSUE

10 Bakersfield Magazine

C Oc om i 20 t o b n g e 09 r

COOL

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remembering

Donna Louise Corum founder . visionary . friend

BAKERSFIELD’S ONLY CITY AND REGIONAL MAGAZINE Vol. 26 No. 3 Sizzlin’ Singles Issue

Publisher Les Corum

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

Historical Editor George Gilbert Lynch

Wine & Food Editor Mike Stepanovich

East Kern Editor Donna McCrohan Rosenthal Creative Director Chuck Barnes Graphic Artist Laura Turner

Systems/Production Ryan Turner

Sales & Marketing Brigit Ayers, Cheryl Rydia Douglas “Dale” Heflin

Contributing Writers J.W. Burch, IV, Holly Culhane Jason Gutierrez, Tracie Grimes Loron Hodge, Miles Johnson Administrative Assistant Melissa Galvan

Photography/Editorial Assistant Isabel Alvarez 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.

Located in the luxurious 801 Truxtun Avenue

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Subscribe now at bakersfieldmagazine.net

Letter from the Editor

Where’s the fire? Right here...this issue is smokin’! As you can plainly see, I dressed for the occasion... But before we get into discussing my attire, I’m excited to present another special feature in this issue: “Firsts.” You remember your first time don’t you? (Not that...) You know, the first time you attempted or accomplished a certain goal or task that was a stepping stone to your chosen hobby or profession? We searched around town and found a great group of candidates, some wellknown, others from behind the scenes, and asked them to tell us—in their own words—about their “first.” It’s candid, witty, a lil’ raw, and unpredictable. And, I might add, it has turned out to be one of my “first” favorite articles we’ve ever done. What would my first be? After giving it some thought, I’d say my first time building the magazine on a computer left a lasting impression. So let’s travel back. In the mid-’80s, Bakersfield Magazine was one of the few companies to embrace desktop publishing (not only in Bakersfield but the entire San Joaquin Valley). Only trouble was, no one else would for another seven or eight years. So we were regularly the joke around water coolers amongst our peers, not to mention all our graphic artists had quit (“computers were beneath their dignity...”). I was from the old school of layout and design, too...as old school as one could be at 23 years of age. But I was determined (not to mention the only one left in the office), so with almost no instruction other than “this is the on switch,” and some previous handson experience with a Tandy TRS-80 that was eventually used in a sacrificial ceremony, I set out to build the magazine on a brand new 1MB Mac II with 12-inch color monitor, which compared to today’s computers, was like working with a model rocket instead of the space shuttle. She was sweet and performed well, and I jumped in with both feet, excited about the prospect of “changing the world” as I remembered that famous Ridley Scott Apple TV commercial, “1984.” Much to my amazement, I caught on fast, as I wrangled the mouse with ease and happily clicked and double-clicked my way into an almost dreamy, GUI-induced psychosis.

As I came upon the final ad to build (and sunrise, no less), I learned two important lessons that I have never forgotten, nor ever will. So simple, yet terrifyingly true, almost mythical in a sense. Something I would become fanatical about for the rest of my life due to this one “enlightening” moment in time: 1) Save 2) Save often Seems back then, not only were computers smaller and slower, but a lot less stable as well. Just before I went to print out the final pages, I encountered the infamous “Mac Bomb” (the computer froze), and not knowing any better, I had not saved my work the entire evening—not even once! No pieces, no ads, no pages... “Firsts” starts on page 52. This issue is also our 6th annual Sizzlin’ Singles issue...and as an extra special twist, all of this year’s bachelors are Kern County Firefighters. To celebrate, I enlisted the best graphics department in the Valley (ours) and their Macs. And with the aid of Photoshop, I was transformed...all in good fun of course, which is exactly why we do the Singles Issue and get involved each year with the Boots and Bachelors Auction (October 2). The entire evening benefits the Bakersfield Homeless Center. To see all of this year’s singles turn to page 43. Of course, we have all our regular favorites, from Kern Facts to Gardening With Mrs. P, plus the return of our annual Insiders Guide on page 38. Like I said...this issue is SMOKIN’. (This editorial was saved no less than 43 times...) My inbox is always open,

Mike Corum

comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 13

14 Bakersfield Magazine

Kern Facts

People • Places • Events

He’s president of the Marcom Group, and she’s an agent with Roberson Real Estate. But who’s most creative when it comes to getting out of trouble?

in step with:

Dave and Kym Plivelich What is the first thing you thought when you saw your spouse for the first time? Kym: Damn, he’s fine! Dave: She was standing on a picnic table bench where I wanted to sit at a reggae fest so I “nudged” her out of the way so I could sit on the table next to my friend. Standing next to her was the previous year’s Mr. California. I kept looking at her legs then kept asking her questions every once in a while until I made her smile and sit down to start answering me. My first thought? Wow! This girl is beautiful. I am going to marry her. What is the funniest thing that happened while you two were dating? Kym: Going to the Kern County Fair and hanging out with a group of people that included a few exboyfriends. Dave: Being that we met and were married within five months, the dating period was rather short. I would have to say it was probably our first date. I told her that I owned two motorcycles and a car. The Harley was actually torn

apart and in crates and the car was a pretty beat-up Volkswagen Bug with no headliner and T-shirt seat covers. It was lowered just right and very cool in my mind. The expression on her face...well, let’s just say that she did not get its coolness factor. What is the craziest thing your spouse has ever done for you? Kym: He proposed to me within a month and married me within five months! Dave: I have got some really professional, yet very tasteful, sexy photos. Who’s the most creative when it comes to making excuses? Kym: Both! Remember, neither of us are ever wrong. Dave: Without a doubt, it’s got to be me. I’m in advertising after all. It’s all about the pitch and the spin. Which do you prefer: a quiet evening at home or a lively night on the town? Kym: A quiet evening at home. Dave: Quiet evening at home... preferably at our beach house. We don’t watch much TV but we are big movie fans.

I’m better at making excuses. I’m in advertising, after all. It’s all about the pitch and the spin. –Dave Plivelich

What’s your favorite local charity event? Kym: I love all the charity events we attend. Anything with a silent auction! Dave: Can’t single one out really. PALS’s Home Town Heroes, ACAP’s Keep Old Glory Flying, MARE’s Evening at the Races, Active 20/30 Club’s Festival of Beers, any Downtown Rotary event of course. The list is quite extensive. Who’s the first one to admit when they’re wrong? Kym: Neither! It makes for interesting “conversations.” Dave: Ha! After 16 years, I’d say we’re still working on that one (we’re still newlyweds after all). What is your biggest pet peeve about your spouse? Kym: His text messaging habits! Dave: Her text messaging habits!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 15

Lucky Connie!

IVE A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE TO Connie Seaton! Connie is our lucky A-List Contest winner this issue—she was the first one to contact us after seeing her name printed in the last issue of Bakersfield Magazine. And what is her reward? A $100 gift certificate to Café Med, that’s what. We hope Connie has a great time dining out and we hope her triumph will inspire you to join the A-List. It’s easy, free, and fun to join. Visit us online at bakersfieldmagazine.net to sign up. Afterwards, pay attention to our contests and you, too, could be eating at Café Med, or another great local restaurant, on us! Join today!

our next big winner could be

YOU!

Here’s your chance!

HEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU ENJOYED A NIGHT OUT? How long has it been since you and your sweetie put on your Sunday best and had dinner at your favorite restaurant? If the answer to those questions is “a long time,” then it’s high time you joined the A-List. That’s right, we’re here to make sure you’re experiencing the best of Bakersfield’s dining scene. So it should come as no surprise that this issue, we’re offering a $100 gift certificate to Uricchio’s Trattoria to the first A-Lister to spot their name below and email us at alist@bakersfieldmagazine.net*. What can we say...we’re givers! Leslie McLaren Jana Barton Geraldo Hasta Garen Pankey Nils Carlson Rebekah Judd

Terry Norris Kendra Sandifer Stefani Gress Wendy Skeels Bill Macauley Janet Diamond

*contest eligibility for A-List members only who have not won a prize in the past three months.

16 Bakersfield Magazine

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Kern Facts

NUTS!

ver the years, Kern County’s top agricultural crops have varied from wheat; cotton; hay; and tree fruit, to other valuable products such as milk and other dairy, to citrus; grapes; and nuts. Specifically almonds and pistachios. Pistachios are wonderful, but let’s save them for another day. In this piece, we will talk about that very lovable nut: the almond. Almonds were introduced in the late ‘60s to mid-’70s, mostly in the Shafter/Wasco areas. Because of the capitol costs to plant an almond orchard and the production time to harvest a new crop (three to five years), most growers in those early years opted to stay with mostly field crops. However the popularity of almond production began to catch on and more acres were devoted to the raising of almonds. As other familiar field crops began to reap less return, the growers, seeking to find a more dependable return on their investment, started to clear and level the land for the planting of almond trees. Even major agricultural production companies located in Kern County turned totally to the production of almonds. In Sacramento, growers formed the California Almond Board for the purpose of promoting the sale of almonds to consumers. As growers began to harvest huge acre-

Did you Know?

wn of Woody, In 1870, the to iles ximately 26 m located appro eld sfi o, and Baker east of Delan la u p tion. the same po had roughly day!) y the same to (We can’t sa ounty Source: Kern C ology on hr C c ri Histo

By Loron Hodge

ages, stockpiles were beginning to add up. To make sure every grower received something for his hard work, a pro-rate system was set up which allowed all growers to benefit, if not in total at least something to keep him going. In Kern County, acres were being planted and almond orchards were popping up all over. The popularity of almonds and almond products was gaining steadily until much of the land devoted to cotton or hay production was converted to almond production. In 2004, California almond growers produced 998 million pounds of almonds. By 2008, Kern County had 132,000 acres in production which was valued at $337 million. Roughly 70 percent of California total almond crop is shipped to more than 80 countries throughout the world. And the remaining 30 percent is used domestically. Consumers have demanded a quality product and growers have answered that call. Almonds are used for cooking in all sorts of ways. Candy bars, ice creams, pies, and other specialty products, such as trail mix, make up the many uses for almonds. On July 15, 2003, the FDA approved the first qualified health claim for conventional food, saying that “Scientific evidence suggests that, but does not prove that, eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a low diet in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.” Almond production has found its place in Kern County agriculture. From those early years when a few acres were planted on a trial basis, almond production has continued to become one of Kern’s most valuable crops. With the mild climate, good soil, and production research, along with a sustainable water supply, Kern County almond growers can reap a good return for many years to come.

In & Around B•Town

where is this H

OLY COW! YOU GUYS MUST LIKE QUIZZES. We received an overwhelming number of entries for our last pop quiz from all you smarty-pants and as of this writing, we’re still getting responses (which is why we’ve made this issue’s quiz a bit tougher). Remember—be as quick as you can when answering because the first person to email us at comments@ bakersfieldmagazine.net is the winner of $30 in Russo’s gift certificates! So see if you know where this picture was taken and if you do—get emailing! Good luck!

Did You Know?

Beale was hen Edward s old, he just 14 year midshipman to be a was chosen he was s meant that in 1836. Thi e navy. th in an officer be to ng ni ar le d by the en sponsore Beale was ev States, the United President of son. Andrew Jack

Can’t Fool Me!

Home of

t seems Keitha Turner is a pro at recognizing Bakersfield landmarks. We tried to stump you last issue, when we obscured a picture of the Indian statue at Ethel’s Corral, originally located on the Garces Circle. But we couldn’t fool Keitha. She was the first one to email us with the correct answer and so she took home $30 in Russo’s gift certificates as her winnings. Congratulations, Keitha. Remember, you can take home great prizes, too, just by paying attention to the city around you and reading your official city magazine. We’ve got more great Pop Quizzes about Bakersfield in store...

POP QUIZ WINNER KEITHA TURNER!

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Kern Facts By J. W. Burch, IV

PSST...

LIKE TO WIN?

HO DOESN’T LOVE GETTING COOL FREE STUFF? Everyone likes getting a little prize now and then...that’s why we at Bakersfield Magazine love giving them! We are a part of some great organizations and events—and in turn, we can pass those benefits on to you. This go around, we gave away tickets to the Biggest Baddest Barbecue and for multiple Symphony performances, and everybody’s favorite: the CSUB BBQ... plus $100 gift certificates to each of our Ugly Pet contest winners. Make sure you join the A-List, by signing up at bakersfieldmagazine.net, so you can enter to win your share of these great prizes!

Andrea Hook BBQ Ticket WINNER Bakersfield Symphony Tickets Sue Bryan Angelina Yee Teena Carlile CSUB Spring BBQ Tickets Frank Ramirez Beckie Diltz Karen Roberts Ugly Pet Winners Marco Barba Nina Lawless Joe Smooch Biggest Baddest BBQ Andrea Hook David Lo Gina Alfaro Jim Luff Cynthia Rodriguez

BakersfieldMagazine.net 18 Bakersfield Magazine

Better Parenting = Better Kids

nyone with children—whether they be young or grown—will attest that raising children is hard work. There are quite often times that, as parents, we are left clueless or blind on how to approach certain situations such as potty training or dealing with temper tantrums. Fortunately, there’s Warmline. Warmline is a group of mothers who volunteer their time to offer telephone and email assistance to parents with children between the ages of zero and six. Warmline is not only there for first-time parents who may not know what to do in a situation, “sometimes it is a third-time parent who just has a more difficult child...they did fine with the first two, but the third is completely different,” Patty Reis, the treasurer of Warmline, said. “We help parents get through some common challenges of parenting,” Reis, who has also been a volunteer for over 10 years, said. “Potty training, tantrums, sleep disturbances, and power struggles are examples of situations that a parent can run out of ideas with.” Warmline was founded in 1979 by Margaret Gannon and her daughter, Mary Lee Hutson, both of whom are Marriage Family Therapists. After running a preschool on Panorama Drive, the two found that parents of the children had a lot of questions about their child’s development, emotional health, and what they can do to best parent their kids. This lead to the

idea of a network of parents who could help each other. “What we do is help parents come to their own solution to their given problem,” Reis said. “More often than not the callers only need someone to talk to. “We don’t like calling ourselves parental advisers,” Reis continued. “We help them [the parents] see the situation in a different perspective and try a new approach to solve the problem.” Warmline has about 20 volunteers taking

phone calls, each of whom have made a twoyear commitment. Each year, an average of 10 new volunteers join the group and start training. Additionally, the group will sometimes convene face to face (sometimes even at parks) for mothers to have the opportunity to get feedback from others in the same boat. Starting in September and carrying on until March before the volunteers take a phone call,

Nonprofit Spotlight

WARMLINE Warmline’s training covers such areas as: child development, emotional development, infant brain development, and toddler/preschool brain development. “It is best to imagine what emotion or stimulation a child’s mind is going through,” Reis said. “That way you can have a better idea of how to approach a given situation... if a child is throwing a tantrum because it is feeling abandoned, then the approach one might take if the child was feeling frustrated would probably not work.” The way one approaches being a parent plays a big role in not only how the child reacts and learns at the present time, but it also affects how the child will eventually raise their children. After all, each of us take what we liked and disliked about our upbringing as a springboard into how we will parent, because that is all we know. “When you get started on the right foot in your parenting when the children are little,” Reis said, “then you have a much better chance at maintaining a good relationship with them throughout their life.” Anyone interested in the services of Warmline and those who may want to volunteer or support the group can visit their website at e-warmline.org or call them at (661) 3233531. Warmline can also be reached via email at warmline@earthlink.net.

O DOUBT MANY OF YOU HAVE NOTICED a refurbished trolley puttering around downtown since late last year, but do you know how it got there? And do you know you can ride it for free? Thanks to PG&E, who donated the funds, and a lot of ingenuity from the Downtown Business Association (DBA), Bakersfield once again has a trolley to shuttle us to and fro. It was a team effort to help breathe some life into the downtown scene after a 30-year trolley hiatus. Folks working downtown now have a ride for lunch, and those just visiting will have a chance to view downtown Bakersfield at its finest by taking a relaxing trolley ride. The trolley itself hits one of the six stops on its path every 15 minutes and can accommodate 22 people. And don’t worry about the environmental impact...This trolley is an environmentally-friendly electric bus complete with San Francisco-style trolley bells. That’s right, electric. According to PG&E, the trolley can go 60 miles on one overnight charge. So if you find yourself downtown between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., hop on for a cozy ride to a lunch destination (easily identifiable on the trolley map), or for a little tour of our revitalized arts district. As an added bonus, riding the trolley can win you some prizes! Just get one of the trolley tickets punched five times, pass the ticket to your trolley greeter, and you’ll be entered to win great prizes. For more information about the trolley, give a holler to the DBA at (661) 325-5892. ALL ABOARD!

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Kern Facts

Justice

I I YoAkums MEETS THE

N TIMES PAST, THE GOOD CITIZENS OF BAKERSFIELD HAVE BEEN COMPELLED TO ADMINISTER JUSTICE without due process of law. As in other localities, there have been cases where technical advantages have been taken by lawyers to screen and clear the criminal. Such is said to have occurred in the case of the Yoakum brothers. Some years [ago], these citizens of Kern County, well to do, but of an unyielding temper, Thomas and William Yoakum were the murderers of Tucker and Johnson, who were shot from their wagons by men hid from view—Tucker [was murdered] while seated by the side of Mrs. Burdette. The Yoakums were arrested and William was tried for the murder of Tucker. The jury acquitted him. At the trial for the killing of Johnson, William Yoakum was found guilty and sentenced to death, but an appeal to a higher court secured a new trial. The feeling was so strong as to the guilt of the parties that it resulted in their being hanged and shot in jail. The murder of Tucker and Johnson was the culmination of a disputed mineral claim. The Yoakums had threatened to kill the first man, woman, or child, who, as they termed it, “trespassed” on their claim. It seems that Tucker asserted his claim on the same land, heeding not the Yoakum’s threats, but, with Johnson, persisted in establishing his claim. The result: the four lost their lives. Source: Memorial and Biographical History of the counties of Fresno, Tulare and Kern, California - Chicago, The Lewis Publishing Company, 1892

get TWEETIN’

ou’ve heard of Twitter, right? Well guess who else has jumped on this Internet bandwagon? The Kern County Library, that’s who! We started following their tweets since we found out they are posting links to their new Tales from the Vault series. Once there, you can read about lost legends from Bakersfield history, unearthed tidbits from local historians, and more! You can check it out at twitter.com/KCLibLocalHist.

20 Bakersfield Magazine

What’s Hot! O

In & Around B•Town

What’s Not?

H THE PLEASURES OF LATE SUMMER. WE’VE EMBRACED THE WARMTH AND CONTINUE TO FLAUNT OUR WELLearned tans. Unless you forgot to put sunscreen on those feet before wearing those cute, strappy sandals to the park day in and day out (that’s definitely crude!). Although we are nearly ready to say adieu to another wonderful summer, it seems most of us are still hoping to cling to the remaining shreds of this fashion season. Well...in that regard, we’ve got you covered. The following trends are what we see hanging on these final summer months— before we all welcome the much desired cool temps and cool fashions.

Crude

Pencil thin eyebrows Plain V-neck White wine spritzers Peep-toe flats Plain hoop earrings High, slicked back ponytails

Refined

A natural shaped eyebrow Ruffled necklines Summer sangria Ankle-strapped platform heels Flashy, geometric earrings Low, loose side ponytails

NEW WEB S

TOP THE PRESSES! We wanted to alert you to a starling and all-together awesome fact you may not be aware of. We’re online! Yes, yes, you say. You’ve visited our website. But have you been there recently? We completely revamped our site— it’s totally interactive. You can read past features, check out new pictures, and read behind-the-scenes-blogs from our staff! And if you’re still itching for more info, don’t worry. Our Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter pages are great ways for you to keep up-tothe-minute tabs on your favorite city magazine. So get online, check us out, and be sure to tell us what you think. OK, start the presses again.

www.BakersfieldMagazine.net

Celebrating 100 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education

1910 - 2010

Pre-K through 8th

Monsignor Craig F. Harrison, V.F., Pastor Cynthia Meek, Principal

St. Francis Parish School

2516 Palm Street 326-7955 www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 21

Stress Free, Comfortable Atmosphere Discounts for AARP Members Lowest Bail Rates in the State

“We’ll Be There When You Need Us”

661.323.2245 917 Chester Avenue License # 1842543

Got the Fundraising Hassles? Bakersfield Magazine Supports the Community and Can Help Your Nonprofit Organization Raise Money. For More Information About “Bakersfield Magazine’s Hassle Free Fundraising” Call Les at 834-4126 or log onto bakersfieldmagazine.net

For The

Pampered Pooch

In Your Life!

• Carriers • Dog Training • Collars • Clothing • Grooming • Food • Doggy Day Care

1617 19th St. • 321-9602 22 Bakersfield Magazine

177

500

The number of jobs placed with the help of the Bakersfield Homeless Center so far this year

The maximum person capacity at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

The number of pumpkins inside the cornucopia on the Seal of Bakersfield

90,965

5 1 2 3 4 5

The number of acres the Kern County Museum encompasses

The number of tickets sold between January and June for events at Rabobank Arena

Sources: blm.gov/ca, bakhc.com, Pollstar, kcmuseum.org

The executive director of the Arts Council of Kern paints us a picture of her 5 Faves! Family and friends...more specifically, playing dominos with my grandson Ethan! The great outdoors! Trees, water, mountains, anything green.

The feeling of paint squishing between my fingers. My relationship with God. We’re tight. Being captivated by live theater. There’s nothing better.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/SJLOCKE

Photo Courtesy kern county museum

The year gold was first discovered on Greenhorn Creek near the Kern River

Photo Courtesy Bakersfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

1851

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/KAISPHOTO

Kern Facts

Jeanette Richardson

Sweet Adeline’s Ice Cream Social Kern River Valley Lake Isabella Senior Center

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES

People • Places • Events

E a s t K er n

Date Book By Donna McCrohan Rosenthal

The China Lake Rotary Club recently announced its new presence on Facebook, and its web page clubrunner.ca has posted events and speakers for the rest of the year, among them “Bring Your Family to Lunch” on Wednesday, July 29 (“Rumor has it there might be ice cream involved”), and Barbara Butler on “New Generations” Wednesday, September 2.

October

Several organizations just concluded especially successful club years, reached milestones, and revealed plans for bright futures built on their achievements— notably the China Lake Rotary and Cerro Coso Community College.

September

Cerro Coso’s service area covers more than 18,000 square miles—bigger than Switzerland—and larger than any other California community college. CCCC marked its 35th anniversary with a Denim & Diamond Gala and took the occasion to introduce its 35th anniversary cookbook that benefits the CCCC Foundation, on sale for $10 from the school’s Book Nook.

Also, director of China Lake’s Threat Infrared Weapons Office Terry Dougherty received the Superior Civilian Service Award and Medal from Vice Adm. David J. Venlet, commander of the Naval Air Systems Command. In a garden ceremony, VX-9 AH-1W operational test director Capt. Jeff Sykes said, “Project managers and commanders in the USMC are comfortable basing acquisition and tactical decisions on his results. Everyone you talk to in the field knows the quality of his work.”

The Ridgecrest Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Ridgecrest Chamber of Commerce, and the China Lake Museum Foundation have received grant checks from the Kern County Board of Trade for tourism enhancement for projects such as the China Lake Museum marketing promotion “On the Road with the U.S. Naval Museum of Armament and Technology” as well as a web-based initiative to increase travel to the region.

August

The Indian Wells Valley Airport District reported a succession of film crews that shot commercials and part of a documentary in Inyokern—including Nissan and Virgin Atlantic on the runways and National Geographic using the World War II hangar for scenes about the Nazi Flying Wing.

July

Among exciting 2010 plans now under consideration, the Maturango Museum is looking into a spring 2010 trip to Africa and a summer 2010 tour to the Passion Play in Oberammergau. Meanwhile, the definitely scheduled Open Studio Tour will draw art and craft lovers from considerable distances over the October 2425, 2009 weekend (maturango.org; 760-375-6900). In the Kern River Valley, the Sweet Adeline’s Ice Cream Social & Concert graces the Lake Isabella Senior Center on Saturday, August 15, and the Exchange Club returns with the 22nd Annual Rubber Ducky Races in Riverside Park, Kernville, on Saturday, August 29 (kernrivervalley.com/events/; (866) KRV4FUN). The KRV Art Association will hold the 45th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Fair in Circle Park over the September 5-7 weekend (760-378-4109). Feel good story of the month: The Maturango Museum offers free memberships to people who have been laid off. According to Museum Executive Director Harris Brokke, this will afford them free admission to exhibits and reduced rates for field trips.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 23

A Comprehensive Women’s Health Center

San Dimas Medical Group, Inc. Noel G. Del Mundo, M.D. Jacqueline Ava Williams-Olango, M.D. James Tsai, M.D. David W. Lewis, MD • Wendy C. Crenshaw, MD Gregory R. Klis, MD • Dana C. Edwards, MD •Marietta Tan, MD Jigisha Upadhyaya, MD • Tillai Kannappan, MD

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Accepting most major health plans including Gemcare, BFMC & County of Kern

Kern Facts

What’s Your

Weakness?

E ASKED SOME BAKERSFIELD LOCALS TO TELL US ABOUT SOMETHING THEY ALWAYS WANT... always need...or always give in to. That’s right, we wanted to know what they consider to be their biggest weakness, be it food, clothing, or a person! Obviously, we got some fun answers.

Taha Rashik, 23, Manager My weakness is the gym. I love going to the gym. I like the thought of being healthy, but that feeling that you get after a good workout is priceless and something I like to feel as much as I can. So I’m always at the gym! Tracy Hunt, 32, Hairdresser I carry around my lip gloss everywhere I go. I won’t leave my house without it. I do have a weakness for lip gloss. I’m constantly buying new shades and flavors. Gabe Reyes, 1, Diaper Tester Binky! Gabe’s mom says he never lets it out of his sight...he plays with it, sleeps with it, and he even eats with it. Mabel McKelvey, 64, Business Owner My biggest weakness would be my grandchildren. They are on my mind 24/7. It’s almost like everything I do or want to do revolves around them. Not only that, but I can never say no to them. Bryan Atkinson, 22, Radio Promotions I know it’s going to sound strange, but I have a weakness for blue foods! If I see something blue that’s eatable, I crave it and have to try it or eat it.

Call Andy Barkate 661-631-4355 for a FREE consumer brochure and more information on Aviva and the LifetimePaySM Plus. CA Insurance License #0803635

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Ruben Zamudio, 34, Broker My weakness would have to be boats! I love to sail and be out at sea. It doesn’t matter what I’m doing or how busy I am, if someone mentions boats or invites me sailing, I will literally drop whatever it is I’m doing just to get on that boat. Amy Mitchell, 27, Real Estate Agent I have a weakness for cowboy boots. I have over 20 pairs of them. In particular, vintage cowboy boots. I just love the look and comfort when I wear my boots!

Skilled Hands

A Fifth of an Inch F

inger position is everything. As any pro can tell you, a fifth of an inch can make the difference between a ball and a strike; a run and an out; a win and a loss. That’s what Ryan Tatusko is banking his future on. The 24-year-old Blaze pitcher makes sure his fingers are just where they need to be each pitch, each game. But before the wind up, the control, pressure, and grip must be checked, re-checked, and perfect. There are a lot of things to think about when you’re standing on the mound. And those are just the physical demands. “A pitcher, more than anything, has to have mental toughness,” Tatusko mused. It’s easy to get

“The game doesn’t happen until I do something with the ball. That pressure is what keeps it fun.” –Ryan Tatusko

psyched out when that type of pressure is riding on your shoulders...or more specifically in your hand. “You can go out and for six innings dominate. You don’t give up a hit. But that next inning you give up four hits and no one remembers the six innings.” But pitching is a labor of love for this Merrillville, Indiana native, who started taking lessons at a young age. And those lessons weren’t cheap—but Tatusko struck a deal to help ensure a successful career in baseball. The lessons he received were taught by an ex-Chicago White Sox player in exchange for hours worked in his shop. “I knew how hard of a career choice this was,” he added. “But my dad told me from a very young age that no matter how good you are, no matter how hard you throw, there is always going to be someone in this world better than you. But there is nobody that has to outwork you.” It’s this motto that has helped Tatusko go from playing college ball at the University of Indiana to being recruited and contracted by the Texas Rangers, the Bakersfield

BASEBALL’S DISTANCE between nobility OR nobody

Blaze’s Major League Affiliate. And a certain amount of that motto rings true when you find out that this young athlete, in his first year here, threw the first one-hitter the Blaze has seen in years. “It felt like any other game at first. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t aware of it. But I tried to keep everything light-hearted in the dugout and not psyche myself out. Early in the game, I’m just joking around with the back-up catcher and another fielder about the difference between Venezuelan-Spanish and Spain-Spanish, and after each inning, I’d notice they’d talk less and less to me. Finally, when I came in for the ninth inning, and it was still a no-hitter, I noticed everybody in the dugout was crammed together on one side. So there I am, sitting by myself. I kept calling people out to talk to me but they would shake their head and mumble something about not ‘ruining it’,” Tatusko laughed. Though a batter from Modesto went on to get a base hit, Tatusko—who was named one of the California League’s Pitchers of the Week in July—is still amazed at the feat. And it happens that Modesto batter was able to get that hit off Tatukso’s go-to, number one pitch: the fastball. Which happens to clock in at around 90 miles per hour—that’s Major League fast. “I tipped my cap to him because he beat me at my best,” he smiled. Of course he’s ultimately working toward finding a place in the “bright lights” surrounding the Majors, but laughs saying “it’s like chasing a running target. As you do better, the lights get brighter, but they always elude you.” Tatusko takes everything in stride, grinning as he admits his weaknesses, and modestly talking about his achievements. “Ultimately, the best thing about being a pitcher is that the game doesn’t happen until I do something with the ball. That pressure is what keeps it fun. I’m going to play until someone rips the jersey off of me.”

RYAN TATUSKO

blaze pitcher

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 25

26 Bakersfield Magazine

Are you a Bakersfield Native? I wasn’t born in Bakersfield but I was raised here. I have been here since I was one. Is there a beauty product that you absolutely can’t live without? I would have to say mousse. I have curly hair, so product is a must to tame down my curls. I am also big on eyes...and also eyeliner. I think your eyes should always be accented and highlighted. Do you think Bakersfield has a certain style? For having that small-town reputation Bakersfield seems to have, I do believe that the city has a great style. We have a casual, but chic, look. We love to “dress up casual.” And we do a great job of pulling it off! Describe your personal style. Since I spend most of my time at work, my style could best be described as business casual with a touch of girly! Is there a celebrity you get your style from? No one in particular. But I love going through magazines and picking out styles and looks that I like. I like to make them my own by mixing it up with my style! What are you wearing? The shirt is from Forever 21, my pants are from Express, and the vest is from Charlotte Russe. I got my shoes at Ross and the bag is from Mervyn’s. Does your style change when you are not at work? Not so much. I do tame it down a bit. But that dressy stylish vibe is still applied. How do you personalize your business look? By adding color or an extra piece to the outfit. If I’m wearing a neutral color, I’ll add something bright that makes the outfit pop. Or add a vest, a scarf, or bold jewelry!

What are your favorite places to shop in Bakersfield? I like going to some of the shops at the East Hills Mall. Their selection is a little bit different than what you find at Valley Plaza and the prices are eye-catching, too. How long does it usually take you to get ready in the morning? I would say it takes me about 45 minutes. Usually with girls, the hair is what takes up the most time when getting ready. But my curly hair doesn’t take that long to style. What is your favorite item of clothing? Shirts! I’m bad when it comes to buying shirts. I have about 100 too many! What is the biggest fashion mistake you have made? Oh, wow! I will never forgive myself for wearing this, but when I was in junior high, I went through a stage where I would wear tight, skinny jeans with these big, bulky, platform tennis shoes.

Are you a bargain hound? Just like everyone else I like a good deal but I won’t wait for a sale to get something I like! What mistakes do you think men make when they dress? There are two things I can’t stand about the way some men dress: baggy pants and muscle shirts. Helpful tip for men: pull your pants up and wear your size. It does not look cute. And leave the muscle shirts for some one that actually has muscles. Actually...scratch that.. just don’t wear them at all. It looks tacky!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 27

IN Take Pride YOUR Ride Carriage

Masters is one of the largest

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

Rent-A-Car

office.

Our

employees

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

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

8929 Rosedale Highway 661.587.0550

Coffee Road

El Toro Viejo Rd.

www.carriagemasters.com

Mall Plaza Dr.

Calloway Drive

28 Bakersfield Magazine

Rosedale Hwy.

Alfred Hitchcock

CITIZEN KERN

knew he had a winner when he said...

“sign him.”

His favorite part of the industry: “As a kid in Kentucky, you grow up looking at these guys, like George Peppard, and find yourself working with them. It’s eerie.” Being able to work with actors like Anthony Hopkins, Sylvester Stallone, Robert Stack, Joan Collins, and Shelley Winters, and then become a family with them on set appeals to the man who passed on a regional theater gig to, “live a life of insecurity.”

meet

His heroes: Obviously John Wayne, since western serials were what ruled kids’ Saturday afternoons back then. So Napier looked up to Robert Mitchum, Lee Marvin, Angie Dickinson, and Rod Taylor, who coincidentally went on to star in the Hitchcock favorite The Birds; all were big influences on him as an actor.

Charles Napier

‘‘

My acting style? Don’t knock the furniture over and remember the damn lines.

Career highlights: After some hard times, Napier was tracked down by none other than British filmmaker and producing giant Alfred Hitchcock who had seen him in a particularly campy Meyer film and wanted to put him under contract as an actor for Universal Studios.“He told me to stand up and spin around. Next thing he said was ‘Sign him.’ Best words I’d ever heard in my life.”

‘‘

How he got started: The notoriously stern-faced Napier went from Kentucky to stage acting in Florida to New York, where he quickly realized that was the wrong place to go. In 1966, he relocated to San Diego and began acting in stage productions of Shakespeare classics before making his first feature film, The Hanging of Jake Ellis. “It was a bad western that nobody saw,” he laughed. But Napier got lucky, and after bugging Jack Nicholson and Dennis Hopper in Hollywood bars for months, landed an agent and appeared in a handful of Russ Meyer cult flicks.

photos by Alan Light (Nicholson), Fred Palumbo (Hitchcock), Robert Broadie (Ferrell), lionsgate entertainment (stallone)

Personal Stats Name: Charles Napier Age: 73 Marital Status: Single Birthplace: Scottsville, Kentucky Title: Actor

What he’d still like to accomplish: With a personal acting method of “don’t knock the furniture over and remember the damn lines,” Napier says at this point in his life, he looks forward to the day when he’s a regular on a TV series as well as the release of his latest movie this summer called The Goods staring Jeremy Piven and Will Ferrell. Plus, he hopes acting roles in the future will take him to locations around the world.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 29

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30 Bakersfield Magazine

Weather Bird? What’s the good Word...

By George Gilbert Lynch

interested in the forecasts of the U.S. Weather Bureau for Kern County, for 24 hours in advance, need only look at the tallest flag staff on the Southern Hotel, at the corner of Chester and 19th. The signal flags flying there announced the weather forecast. If a simple white flag was flying, the weather for 24 hours following would be fair and clear with stationary temperature. If the flag was blue, it indicated

The Coca-Cola Weather Bird sign debuted downtown in 1940, delighting folks of all ages.

The Bakersfield postmaster, Mr. Ober, received the reports at 10 a.m. daily and furnished them to the Southern Hotel’s manager who maintained the flag signals. This flag system was used for years until radio and newspaper’s reporting made it obsolete. Many years later, on July 26, 1940, reminiscent of the flag system of weather reporting on the old Southern Hotel, a new, modern weather forecasting sign >>

PHOTO PROVIDED BY KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

In 1892, the Southern Hotel was the first to give weather updates by flying different colored flags.

rain or snow. If a white flag with a black triangular flag above it was flying from the staff, fair and warmer weather was predicted. Then a long list of different positions of the blue, black, triangular, or white. These same flag signals were used internationally. Some folks memorized the dozen or more flag indications, but to most they were so confusing to read that local people simply acted as if they knew what each flag meant so as to not be thought of as stupid. The Weather Bureau also had a whistle code in combination with these flags that could later be instituted but was never applied. PHOTO PROVIDED BY GEORGE GILBERT LYNCH

ong before radio, and with just a few telephones in Bakersfield, the only way of getting a current weather forecast was to visit your old uncle with the rheumatism who always was accurate in predicting rain or a cold spell. Of course, you could have always made a trip to the post office or the Western Union Telegraph office and hope the employee had received the latest weather report. On February 25, 1892, Bakersfield civic leaders remedied this situation by installing a “Weather Flag Weather Report System.” From that date forward, anyone

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 31

The weather bird sign stood next to the Beale Clock Tower for 22 years, before being torn down in 1962.

A marvel of emerging technology, the weather bird sign lit up the nights in spectacular form. eryone cheered. The slogan below the weather bird read “Thirst Knows No Season.” The sign above would predict the weather for the next 24 hours just like the old 1892 flag system only in 20th Century electronic style. The weather bird would hop out of his house to predict the weather for the next 24 hours and be appropriately attired to fit the

32 Bakersfield Magazine

forecast. Here’s what the animated sign displayed for the different weather conditions: Cloudy—The sun was blacked out, clouds were lighted, and the bird hopped out of his house with an umbrella tucked under his arm. Cool—The sun shone, and the bird wore an Eskimo suit. Rain—The sun was hidden, clouds appeared, rain fell, and the bird wore a rain hat and opened his umbrella. Fair—The sun came out and the bird apPHOTOS PROVIDED BY KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

was presented before nearly 7,000 cheering spectators at the new Sill Building, on 18th and Chester, a block south of the Southern Hotel. My family and I were there among the crowd to watch the event. At 7:45 p.m., the huge “Coca Cola Weather Bird Sign” was activated by its owner, Sam Lynn, the local Coca Cola distributor. The mammoth sign lit up in a blaze of colored light showing a sun, clouds, rain, and the animated weather bird waddled from his house as ev-

peared in light attire carrying a hoe, seeds, and a straw hat, ready to go gardening. Warm—The sun’s rays shimmered and the bird wore a swimsuit and fanned himself. William Garvey designed the massive sign and the Electrical Products Corporation assembled it. The 44- by 48-foot, 11-ton structure featured more than a mile of neon tubing and 2,000 feet of steel cable supporting it. Its cost was $35,000 ($500,000 in today’s dollars). Builders of the sign proclaimed it was “the most spectacular animated sign west of Chicago!” Sam Lynn, the sign’s owner, prompted the weather bird to act out his predictions using reports from the local Weather Bureau. He orchestrated the bird’s antics by private telephone from his office, using the dial system on a special line. This was really hi-tech as transistors and computers were unknown in 1940. The electrical programs were accomplished by old-fashioned relay switches and timers...the same that were used in the old pinball machines of that era. The weather bird sign was a downtown icon back then. For 22 years, our weather bird announced the daily weather report. On the morning of July 3, 1962, a large crane appeared at 18th and Chester and workmen began taking the huge sign down. Coca Cola’s local manager said they would not renew their lease on the sign. “It was no longer effective...people have seen it for so long they take it for granted,” he said. Most of our memorable icons have disappeared from downtown Bakersfield but I still fondly remember the simpler times of the past when on Saturday night our family would drive downtown to have Chinese food at Fat’s Café, attend a movie, and watch the weather bird act out his predictions. v

He was sure this idea would be just what farmers needed...right now.

R I S K T A K E R S

betting the farm By Tracie Grimes

here aren’t many things in life people are sure about enough to “bet the farm on,” but for Angelo Mazzei and his wife Mary, putting up their life’s savings to take a chance on an idea Angelo had seemed like a sure thing. And their bet paid off in a big way. Today, the Mazzei name can be found on products in agricultural, industrial, and municipal organizations across the U.S. and in 99 countries. It all started in 1968 when Angelo, after receiving his degree in automotive industrial technology from California State University, Fresno, moved to Arvin to manage the equipment on his uncle’s 10,000 acre vegetable farming operation, Mazzei Farms. And as he learned the ins and outs of crop irrigation and fertilization, he started to get ideas on ways to add liquid fertilizer into irrigation water. Then came the new California Aqueduct. “When the California Aqueduct was built, the old system of getting the water and fertilizer to the crops simply wouldn’t work anymore,” Angelo explains. “Prior to the aqueduct, irrigation water was pumped into reservoirs then utilized as needed for irrigation of crops. The water from the aqueduct was pressurized, which posed a problem for adding liquid fertilizer.” Angelo knew farmers needed something to help put liquid fertilizer directly into irrigation systems, and they needed it now. With his garage converted into a big think-tank/laboratory, Angelo began working on a few of his ideas. And in 1974, by George, he got it just right. The fabulous Mazzei® Injector was born. “The idea for developing a more efficient venturi injector resulted from an independent study class on automotive exhaust systems at Fresno State,” Angelo explains, adding that the first injectors were turned on a lathe in his garage. During the next few years Angelo sharpened his sales skills by selling John Deere tractors for South Kern Machinery while perfecting his injector. He received his first patent for the Mazzei® Injector in 1978. >>

When the California Aqueduct was built, old fertilization systems would not work anymore. With his garage converted into a think-tank laboratory. Angelo began working on a few ideas.

Angelo Mazzei Mazzei Injectors

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 33

Risktakers

PHOTOS COURTESY MAZZEI INJECTORS

John Owens, MD Laura Valenzuela, NP-C

Health Care for Women of All Ages

• Obstetrics, Gynecology & Infertility • Implanon, Essure, & Endometrial Ablation • 3D & 4D Ultrasound • Urinary Incontinence • Biofeedback 30 Years In The Same Location

You can thank Mazzei Injectors for the clean tanks and micro-organism-free waterways when visiting Busch Gardens.

Personal Care In A Family-Friendly Atmosphere

~ Se habla Espanol

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The development of this first Mazzei® Injector opened the flood gates for a host of vertically integrated products and equipment designed to solve problems relating to agriculture irrigation, chemical addition, wastewater aeration, and ozone systems. It wasn’t long before Mazzei Injectors operations outgrew Angelo and Mary’s extended garage/office, and they moved headquarters just six miles down the road to the Mazzei Injectors building, just off of Highway 58. Today, Mazzei Injectors offers a broad line of high-efficiency injectors, specialized nozzles, degassing separators, flash mixers, and water-related system combinations. “The name ‘Mazzei’ is synonymous with water/gas/liquid transfer,” says Mazzei President Bill Van Skike, explaining that the Mazzei® Injector works by capturing pressurized water as it enters the injector inlet and forcing the water toward the injection chamber. “The velocity of the water is increased during this process, which results in a decrease in pressure. Additives (either liquid or gas) can be introduced through a suction port and mixed with the water. The water plus the liquid or gas can then be injected into the main water pipe. For agricultural uses, our injector would be used to inject liquid fertilizers or chemicals directly into irrigation systems. The development of adding air to the irrigation water and delivering the air/water mixture gave way to a new technique called AirJection Irrigation; a way to ‘plow without a plow,’ ” Bill says, quoting Mazzei’s trademarked slogan. Although agricultural uses were the driving force behind the development of the Mazzei® Injector, uses reached far beyond the farmers’ fields. “Basically, this technology is something

that can be used to streamline operations in many industries,” Bill comments, underlining that “the biggest thing on the horizon is the application of Mazzei products in areas that can make a real impact on the world population.” In listing just some of the uses for Mazzei products, Bill citied the following: If you’ve taken the family to Sea World, Disneyland, or Busch Gardens, you can thank Mazzei Injectors for the clean tanks and micro-organism-free waterways. Mazzei products are also widely used to keep microbial contamination out of your on-the-go drinking water. Food processing and fresh cut produce plants routinely use Mazzei products

Mazzei Injectors continues to play a very crucial fertilization role in Kern County’s enormous grape production industry.

Company president Bill Van Skike along with Mary, Cece, and Angelo Mazzei, keep Mazzei Injectors a family business.

to disinfect food processing surfaces, extend the shelf life of fresh foods and reduce the threat of E. coli contamination. Mazzei products also help solve environmental problems like water main disinfection and the control of invasive species between waterways and in raw water pipelines. At the heart of these Mazzei applications is ozone, which, to many, conjures up atmospheric holes and global warming. But ozone can actually be used to clean up the environment and reduce our carbon footprint, Bill is quick to add. “Our injectors and mixing devices capture the energy created by the flow of water and the use of electricity to create ozone,” he begins. “The Mazzei® Injector draws in the ozone gas, mixing it with the water stream. MTM™Nozzles are used in the pipeline or basin mixing application and the Flash Reactor™ is used for secondary mixing and additional ozone transfer. The Degas Separator then removes any undissolved gas bubbles. All ozone is consumed by the process since every time the ozone goes through a Mazzei device it is ‘sheared’ until it becomes dissolved into the water.” Most people don’t realize that it’s possible to convert oxygen to ozone and get it dissolved into the water, but, “we have good widgets that came from good minds,” Bill smiles, summing up the 14 patents and multitudes of trademarks Mazzei Injectors has developed over the past 31 years. “The current state of the world economy certainly puts every business at risk these days. I see a lot of people I respect reacting to what’s going on rather than acting, meaning they are laying off workers or closing doors. “Our approach to today’s risky economy

is to do our ‘due diligence’ before making any cuts or redistributions. I’m not saying that cuts aren’t always necessary, but you really have to exhaust all dialogs to find that ‘sweet spot’ of balance before reacting so you don’t end up making a mountain out of a mole hill. An informed plan of action based on discussion is what is needed to get through these tough times.” And while other organizations are cutting back, laying off, or closing their doors, Mazzei is finding the best response to this economy is expansion. “We really believe that what our markets need is for us to deliver exactly what they want. With that in mind, we’re always looking for ways to improve by asking our customers this basic question, ‘if there were two things you’d like to see Mazzei doing differently, what would they be?’ “You can really learn a lot by simply engaging your customers; giving them a voice in the way your company delivers service and products. This kind of dialog builds relationships with our customers and makes doing business with us less risky for them.” This way of thinking is exactly what Angelo was hoping for when he brought Bill on board in 2006 and promoted him to president of Mazzei Injectors in 2007. “Bill brings enthusiasm to the company which motivates us to stay on the cutting edge,” Angelo notes. “It’s easy to work for a company you’re genuinely enthusiastic about,” Bill replies. “And it’s exciting to be around people who have the ability to think so broadly. Some of the things we do look pretty futuristic, but some look the same – we just ‘tweak’ the process a little to make them better. >>

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Risktakers “My job is to keep the research ‘pipeline’ full of new ideas and fresh approaches to products, back up these new innovations with the best customer service, and hire the best sales people to get the products in the market,” Bill says. Research is a big part of Mazzei operations, Angelo and Bill both emphasize, citing their company’s strong ties to California State University, Fresno, and the International Center for Water Technology at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. “The Civil and Environmental Engineering Department [in Alberta], known worldwide as a leading body in the study of ozone and its uses, recently studied the Mazzei® Flash Reactor™ and continues to work with us in developing and refining our products. This kind of research support makes it possible for us to provide our customers with effective solutions,” Bill says. Problems, solutions – if it sounds a lot like math, that’s because it is. “Math is the basis for everything we do,” Bill continues. “We use math in so many ways; formulas used to chart injector performance curves; trends we follow using a math basis.” And with math being at the root of Mazzei operations, it seems almost poetic that Angelo’s daughter, Cece Mazzei, received a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Pepperdine University, and taught math until recently. “But now I’ve got Cece on board full time at Mazzei,” Bill smiles. Having Cece on staff and with Angelo still “hands-on” as Chairman of the Board, Mazzei Injectors is still very much a family business. And having chosen Bill to step in and run the day-to-day operations is a decision Angelo has never regretted. “I brought Bill on because we were at a kind of ‘crossroads,’” Angelo reflects. “As with most family-run businesses, we had come to the point where it was time to change our model to allow for maximum growth. We needed the experienced business management style Bill has brought to Mazzei so we could capitalize on growth opportunities.” Turning over the command of operations to Bill was another big risk for Angelo, this time betting much more than just the farm. But once again his risk paid off and today the Mazzei name can be found in industries across the board, in almost every country in the world. Not bad for an “ol’ farmer.” v

36 Bakersfield Magazine

❖

HUMAN RESOURCES ❖

Consistency Critical in Workplace Relations “Joe Cool” may always go. He claimed his supervisor be the most-invited person to had told him on several occaevery party and liven up every sions that he was “no longer occasion; however, beware of a fireball” and that he “was praising these attributes in the “dragging his feet.” Another workplace. Of course, any orofficer referred to him as “Ofganization is going to be a mificer Dirt,” because he was crocosm of society and there’s “older than dirt.” Although an little doubt that you may have internal investigation found no some high-profile, cooler than legitimacy to his claims, once ice, super-swingers working Hogan filed his claim and it for your company—along went to a jury, he was awarded with your aging baby boom$700,000 in actual damages ers, stressed-out single parents, and $2 million in punitive immigrants with differing By Holly Culhane, SPHR damages! (Grossman, Robcultures, and employees with ert J., “Defusing Discriminadisabilities. While these young, dynamic, out- tion Claims,” HR Magazine, May 2009). going personalities may be the new “golden Obviously, the internal investigation should boys/girls” for your business, you want to have been more aggressive and perhaps this encourage them without appearing to slight case would never have gone to court. In fact, any other workers in the organization. Today, the company had several chances to respond more than ever, it is absolutely imperative to Hogan and prevent this huge payout, but that companies treat all employees equally they failed to take his claim seriously and in the workplace. mishandled their opportunities to rectify the So, just what is the main concern for busi- situation. Lozano reminds us “Every terminanesses to ensure that every worker is treated tion should be handled on a case-by-case basis equally in the workplace, thereby eliminating, but just as importantly, every employee should or at least greatly reducing, any possible be treated with respect and dignity through discrimination claims? Documentation has the termination process. Investigations are always been the key to success in fighting critical in identifying the facts and should any discrimination claims that may arise be conducted in a manner that ensures thorand now, more than ever, companies must oughness and neutrality by the investigator.” be vigilant about keeping precise, complete Remember, when terminating any employee, documentation, including payroll informa- regardless of the reason, it is not just a busition, employee evaluations, detailed writ- ness matter; you are dealing with a person’s ten records of any formal and/or informal livelihood, as well as his/her dignity and selfconferences, etc. for an extended period of respect. Always be cognizant of the person’s time. In fact, while most companies do not feelings and listen to what they have to say, keep this information indefinitely, for obvious remaining as empathetic as possible without reasons, organizations need to get creative on appearing patronizing. If they appear to have documenting and retaining files in order to legitimate complaints, be sure to check them prepare for future eventualities should they out in order to be prepared for any repercusarise. Javier Lozano, SPHR-CA, GPHR, sions that may occur. Human Resources Manager for the City of Be vigilant! If you even suspect that any form Bakersfield emphasizes, “The first lesson for of discrimination may be occurring, check it any supervisor is ‘document, document, docu- out. Document it. Keep written files and talk to ment!’ Documentation must be complete and everyone involved, having them sign or initial factual. Organizations should know the legal written statements. If you should receive a “derequirements for retention of all documents, mand letter” from a complainant’s lawyer—reincluding personnel files, I-9’s, and Workers’ spond immediately. Also, if a former employee Compensation records. Non-compliance can files for unemployment, think carefully before be costly.” denying the claim. If the employee was fired As we all know, the economy is struggling for cause and doesn’t deserve unemployment and so it should come as no surprise that compensation, be sure you have documentation discrimination lawsuits are increasing. When before refusing the claim. Be sure to talk to people are laid off, especially if they are in your human resource professional and consider a protected class, and with concerns of find- consulting your own attorney. If offered, think ing new employment in the current business about using mediation. The EEOC (Equal Emclimate, they may resort to a discrimination ployment Opportunity Commission) encourclaim in hopes of having their job reinstated, ages this approach and it can save everyone or at least obtaining a cash settlement. Often, time and money. these claims may point to comments made by Remember, treat all employees equally and a supervisor or coworkers. For example, in document, document, document! a recent lawsuit involving a former Kansas City police officer, Anthony Hogan, age dis- Contact Holly Culhane of PAS Associates for crimination was filed after the officer was let your human resource needs, (661) 631-2165.

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www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 37

Discover

IMAGE COURTESY DAN HAUSER

Insiders “And Let the Heavens Fall”

“And Let the Heavens Fall” – The first new animated Star Trek episode produced in 35 years, written and animated by Ridgecrest Star Trek expert Curt Danhauser. Presented as a fan film for free viewing online, the half-hour tale appears on DanhauserTrek.com.

Ridgecrest in 2001. Her DJ career began the night the Japanese capitulated. When her boss at WWDC had a little too much to drink, she and another woman decided to go on the air as the “Scrub Women.” It led to a steady job. Antiques and collectibles – Wonderful shops abound in

Andre, Natalie Towle

©IS

38 Bakersfield Magazine

TOCK

PHO

TO.C OM/ H

IDES

Brown in the 1880s in Weldon, along the South Fork of the Kern River, it had a post office, bank, and boarding house, as well as a mill that still stands, to the delight of photographers. Brown’s ranch covered 14,000 acres. Brown operated stores in Havilah and Old Kernville. Andre, Natalie Towle – The first lady radio announcer in Washington, DC, during WWII, moved to

PHOTOS COURTESY NEWS REVIEW

A. Brown Store – Built by Andy

parts of Tehachapi, Olde Towne Ridgecrest, bordering Circle Park in Kernville, and some 200 vendors converge on the Kern County Museum for Bakersfield’s Old Time Peddler’s Faire (October 10-11 this year). Apricot mallow – Gray shrub with gray leaves and striking apricot or red-orange colored flowers, it blooms prominently along roadsides such as Brown

Kern

By Donna McCrohan Rosenthal

Black Gold: The Oil Experience

PHOTO COURTESY KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

©istockphoto.com/karimala

Guide...A toZ Apricot Mallow Road near Inyokern and Hwy 14 between Mojave and Jawbone Canyon during the colorful wildflower season.

Black Gold: The Oil Experience – Kern County Museum’s exceptional hands-on exhibition about the geography, geology, technology, and history of California oil.

Writers Club began among Jack London and friends in 1909 in the Bay Area; today it has 16 branches, with two of them in Kern County— Writers of Kern in Bakersfield and the East Sierra Branch, or Ridge Writers, in Ridgecrest. Chipper Days – The Kern River Valley Fire Safety Council, Kern County Fire Department, and

Cookies at the Clock Tower– Yuletide party thrown on the second Sunday of each December at the Kern County Museum; follows the KC Museum’s Holiday Lamplight Tour which takes place on the first Saturday in December. Cow pie “not molded into a spherical shape, 100% organic”

famous Stokoe Collection of phones, lamps, items from the stationmaster’s desk, functioning outdoor mechanical signals, and other railroad memorabilia.

Eggs – McMurtrey Aquatic Center scatters some 6,000, both floating and underwater, for its annual Eastertime EGGstravaganza. PHOTO COURTESY U.S.NAVY

Centennials

Flight of the Bumblebee

Bob Powers Gateway Preserve – Proposed conservation project for rare Sierra wetlands, currently in the planning stages. It will honor the memory of the renowned Kern River Valley historian.

Centennials – Kern County will see plenty of 100th birthday celebrations in 2009. Tehachapi incorporated on August 13, 1909. Inyokern observes its 100th on September 26. The California

Camp Erwin Owens have partnered for free chipper mulching for residents, businesses, and other groups who collect potentially hazardous branches and shrub materials “so long as the work is done for fuel reduction and the creation of defensible space, and the event is coordinated to make a reasonable day’s work for the crew.” Find instruction online at krvfiresafecouncil.org.

longest toss – Steve Urner flung a cow pie 226 feet during the August 14, 1981 Mountain Festival in Tehachapi, earning himself a Guinness World Record.

Depot – Constructed in 1904, the Tehachapi Depot burned down in June 2008. The “Back on Track” campaign aims not only to restore it, but to add an orientation center for the Tehachapi Loop and the

Flight of the Bumblebee – China Lake tested more than 200 Bumblebee missiles over the sands of China Lake between 1945 and 1952.

Globally Important Bird Areas – The Kern River Preserve achieved this designation for its protection of habitats of populations such as the western yellow-billed cuckoos, southwestern willow flycatchers, >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 39

Discover Kern

Kit Fox

PHOTO COURTESY U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE

Liyikshup –The Chumash people revered the summit of Mt. Pinos, the highest peak in the Los Padres National Forest, as the center of the world. They called it “Liyikshup”— the point where everything is in balance.

summer tanagers, Kern redwinged blackbirds, and migrating turkey vultures.

Hari-Kari, Oscar’s Nightmare, Royal Flush – Rapids that deliver thrills and adventure for kayakers on the Kern River, famous for its whitewater challenges.

i j

Inland Space Port – Designation granted to Mojave Airport in Mojave for its emerging aerospace projects. Jet fuel from pond scum – China Lake scientists have researched alternative energy

for example the 2002 “The Merry Wives of Windsor” staged with a “Pirates of the Caribbean meets Peter Pan” feeling. The KSF couples the talent of professional actors and directors with students and local amateurs (tickets: 661-395-4326). Kit fox – Curious, cute, brown-eyed little fellow with a black-gray coat and big ears. The San Joaquin kit fox lives in the Central Valley and foothills while the desert kit fox prefers the Mojave Desert.

Levan Institute for Lifelong Learning – Bakersfield College program primarily for people over 55 but welcoming all adults with

Mojave Desert in space – With NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center and Edwards Air Force Base and the nongovernmental Mojave Spaceport, the Mojave Desert has been the site of most of NASA’s experimental aeronautic programs.

Navy’s largest single turf – The Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) occupying China Lake’s 1.1 million acres encompasses 38 percent of U.S. Naval land holding worldwide. Nuui Cunni Native American Cultural Center – Interactive, intercultural museum run by the Paiute Shoshone tribe in Lake Isabella. It displays artifacts from the Anasazi, Navajo, and Paiute people. On craft days, Wednesdays

home, the Education Center, the French Shop, the Noriega House, the Tejon Theater, and the railroad depot at Baker and Sumner streets, among other architecturally and historically significant structures. Osdick – Original name of the gold and silver mining camp that became Red Mountain in 1929, near Randsburg and Johannesburg on Hwy 395.

Pacific Crest Trail – One of the first scenic trails authorized by Congress in 1968 under the National Trails System, it runs 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico and cuts through Kern County at Walker Pass, the Chimney Peak Wilderness, and the Kern River near Kennedy Meadows. Pakanapul – Aboriginal language spoken by the indigenous people of Kern River’s South Fork—taught at the Nuui Cunni Native American Cultural Center in Lake Isabella. “Planet Boron” – Brochure from the Twenty Mule Team Museum

PHOTO BY JOE WESTERBERG

Seeing Stars and Meteor Showers

Liyikshup

solutions such as grass clippings and pond scum. They produced the webisode “Biofuel—Turning T-shirts and Table Scraps Into Jet Fuel” (www.navair.navy. mil/nawcwd and www.ndep.us) as part of the National Defense Education Program.

Kern Shakespeare Festival – The annual October event at Bakersfield College performs Shakespeare with panache, 40 Bakersfield Magazine

an interest in “continuing to gain knowledge throughout their lives.” Established with a $5.7 million gift from Bakersfield dermatologist Dr. Norman Levan, Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Medicine at USC Medical School, it gives courses that cover astronomy, drawing, gardening and plant care, music, personal finance, photography, soapmaking, silversmithing, wine appreciation, and other topics (bakersfieldcollege. edu/levaninstitute).

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., visitors learn to fashion their own souvenirs. “Nuui Cunni” means “our house” in Paiute-Shoshone.

Old Town Kern – Owing its origin to the Southern Pacific Railroad, the East Bakersfield area formerly called “Sumner” includes the Baker Street Library, the Bimat House, Earl (California Governor and Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court) Warren’s

in Boron that describes uses for boron and borates in products ranging from ceramics and glass to pool chemicals, detergent, footballs, and Play-Doh. Projected population – Bakersfield’s current 322,500 is expected to increase to around 400,000 by 2015 and almost 425,000 by 2018.

Quarnstrom, the Honorable Ellen Miller –

Insiders Guide...A to Z

Seeing stars and meteor showers – Hanning Flat, Isabella, Keyesville, and Onyx rank among the finest Northern Hemisphere spots for viewing the heavens at night according to the International Dark Sky Association. The most favorable conditions occur with a new moon or no moon, and the worst during a full moon. Sirretta Street Swap Meet – Popular mile-long yard sale held each May in Kernville. For details,

Tails – The new attraction in the Discovery Corner of Ridgecrest’s Maturango Museum exhibits tails from tortoises to elephants in an entertaining, educational setting. Top employers, Kern County’s – Edwards Air Force Base (18,000 employees), County of Kern (10,342), Grimmway Enterprises (6,500) and China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station (6,388) according to recent figures. Tropico Hill – The one-time mining camp in Rosamond now enjoys considerable success as a film location.

Trouble with Women, The – Romantic comedy from Paramount starring Ray Milland, Brian Donlevy, Teresa Wright, and Lloyd Bridges. As the premiere feature at the Tejon Theater on June 17, 1947,

Ulexite contact the Kernville Chamber of Commerce, 800-350-7393 or email kernvillechamber@lightspeed.net.

Six Million Dollar Man – Test pilot Bruce Peterson’s M2-F2 crashed on Rogers Dry Lake near the Flight Research Center at Edwards on May 10, 1967. Peterson survived, and footage of the accident turned up as the opening sequence of the 1974-78 TV show The Six Million Dollar Man.

it grossed a grand total of $193.

Uhalt, Bernard Jr. (“Frenchy”) – Bakersfield-born son of Uhalt’s Blacksmith shop founders. Frenchy dazzled at football at Kern County Union High, earning himself scholarship bids from USC, Notre Dame, and Fordham, but he declined them in favor of a baseball career. He went on to play professionally for the Pacific Coast League’s Oakland Oaks, Hollywood

Stars, and San Francisco Seals, followed by the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees, and Milwaukee Brewers. Inducted into the Bob Elias Hall of Fame, the Bay Area Hall of Fame, and the Pacific Coast League Hall of Fame, Frenchy Uhalt died in 2004 at the age of 94. Ulexite – AKA “the TV rock” because it projects images to the top of its surface, giving the appearance of a television screen. Visitors to Boron’s Twenty Mule Team Museum frequently get free samples.

Village Fest, Vintage cars, VW bugs, and buses – Held annually at the Kern County Muse-

Community College and taught at California City High School, the course trains technicians for careers in wind energy— one of the few industries that has immediate openings for qualified candidates.

Xeriscape – Landscaping with a view toward water conservation, and in plots susceptible to drought. The Indian Wells Valley Water District underscores the concept with the motto “Brown is green.” “Xeros” is Greek for “dryness.”

Younger, Betty H. – This Bakersfield sculptor won a Silver Olympic medal for “The

Uhalt, Bernard Jr. “Frenchy”

um. Village Fest boasts samples of over 100 different brews plus live entertainment (Sept 12, 2009), the Vintage LTD Car Club transforms the grounds into memory lane with over 150 pre-1959 autos (Sept 20, 2009), and hundreds of Volkswagens and their owners gather for food, fun, and car-related games (fourth weekend in March 2010).

Wind Tech Boot Camp – Offered by Cerro Coso

PHOTO COURTESY HOWARD OWENS.BUZZNET.COM

PHOTO COURTESY NAVAL AIR WEAPONS STATION

Richardson, Arvin – Early pioneer, postmaster, and merchant described by some sources as “the first storekeeper in the colony.” People began buying property about 15 miles southeast of Bakersfield circa 1907; incorporated in 1960, the area took the name “Arvin” as a tribute to Richardson.

Solar Energy Technology Degree – Cerro Coso Community College initiated this degree and certificate program during the 1978-79 academic year.

PHOTO COURTESY TWENTY MULE TEAM MUSEUM

Her appointment as judge of the Weedpatch Judicial District in 1957 made her Kern County’s first female judge. Previously she had distinguished herself as Bakersfield’s first known female attorney.

Navy’s Largest Single Turf; Naval Air Weapons Station

Flame” in the 2000 U.S. Olympic Committee Sport Art Competition and first place Individual Artist for the Beautiful Bakersfield Award in 2003. Her piece “Time Capsule 2020” was commissioned in 2004 for the Bank of America in Bakersfield.

Zombietown, Chopper Chicks in – 1989 comedy-horror cult classic shot in and around Randsburg, with Billy Bob Thornton in an early role. v

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 41

42 Bakersfield Magazine

Whoever said “single” is a bad word must have never met our picks for 2009’s Sizzlin’ Singles.

For these individuals, being single is a matter of choice. They’ve made the decision to put career and community first—something that deserves a big thank you from us. These men and women are thinking of the future and letting nothing stand in their way...even a pesky fire. That’s right. This year, all the men happen to be Kern County firefighters. And, shockingly, the gals we selected had no problem with this. We wonder why. But seeing as all our singles are intelligent, hardworking, and successful, we naturally wanted to know what makes them tick. What is it that drives them to be the best they can be? What gives them the energy to be loving sons and daughters, dedicated parents, caring friends, concerned citizens, and still have time to manage their own businesses, rise in the ranks at their chosen profession, and follow their dreams... And if you’re anxious to catch one of these singles, your best bet is the annual Boots and Bachelors Auction, held at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on October 2.

Photos by Ed Kreiser Individual bachelor pictures by Christina Bohannon

Now before you get too carried away soaking up all the sizzlin’ fun on these pages, remember one thing: we won’t be giving out any digits. So don’t even try asking.

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 43

Name: Paul Gibbins Age: 41 Occupation: Fire Engineer Marital Status: Single

Name: Pete Moore Age: 26 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: In a relationship Three words that best describe you: Fun, unpredictable, adventurous. Your pet peeve is: Chewing with your mouth open. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? The success of my life. Personal motto: “Don’t worry, be happy.” Best-kept local secret: The Fulton Hotshots. One thing you can’t live without: Chipotle. Your theme song: “2 Legit 2 Quit” by MC Hammer. Favorite food/dish: Big burrito. Favorite age so far: 19. Best cartoon: Finding Nemo. Most unusual ritual: Eating Chapstick. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Anywhere...hopefully Mexico! How did you choose your career? My old man. Three things you look for in a friend: Honest, fun, trustworthy. What do you want people to know about Bakersfield? This place is great!!

TYING THE KNOT? 44 Bakersfield Magazine

Three words that best describe you: Sweet, smart, funny. Hidden talent: Handyman and can play the guitar. Best-kept local secret: Dewars. One thing you can’t live without: Chocolate malts. Love me, love my: Cats. Your theme song: “Brick House” by The Commodores. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “California” by 2Pac. Favorite drink/cocktail: Iced tea. Favorite food/dish: Pizza. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My handyman skills. Best cartoon: SpongeBob SquarePants. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Chillin’ with the homies. How did you choose your career? I listened to my stepdad about becoming a firefighter. Signature first date move? Open doors. Three things you look for in a friend: Honesty, good listener, sense of humor.

Name: Kate Kenney Age: 50 ruiter/ Occupation: Volunteer Rec A of Training Coordinator with CAS Kern County Marital Status: Single ribe Three words that best desc ent. you: Happy, calm, and cont t Your pet peeve is: Incorrec grammar on public signs. er any record album cover Hidden talent: I can embroid m shirt. design from the ‘70s on a deni re you go out with them? befo date your gle Goo you Do y. a company before you appl ing arch rese like It’s ly. Absolute business? ter Twit this is t Wha ter? Do you Twit the Goodwill on Rosedale. Not Best-kept local secret: The but t, big one by Walmar the one at Calloway. Best cartoon: The Flintstones.

Name: David Rea Age: 39 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single Three words that best describe you: Easy-going, dependable, hard-working. Hidden talent: Baking homemade apple pie. Personal motto: Be the change you wish for the future. Best-kept local secret: La Costa’s margaritas. Your pet peeve is: Obnoxious drunks. Love me, love my: Sock puppet. Your theme song: “Free Bird” by Lynard Skynard. What book is currently on your nightstand? 90 Seconds in Heaven. Favorite drink/cocktail: Dirty Grey Goose martini on the rocks. Favorite food/dish: Anything Italian. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? Watching my best friends from high school having children. Most unusual ritual: Setting two alarms before going to bed. Signature first date move? Open the door for her. Three things you look for in a friend: Likes to travel, always has a smile, and down for anything.

nce” by Van Morrison. Your theme song: “Moonda out: I can’t live without with live ’t can you g thin One . sunshine your iPod? What is this iPod What song is on repeat on business? ld throw away, but can’t? What is something you shou . My prom dress from 1976 at this point in your life? What are you most proud of kidney to my 76-year-old a ated don I er emb Nov Last father. g 50—I’m smart enough to Favorite age so far: I love bein enough to wait for it. ent pati and t know what I wan al for dessert. cere eat Most unusual ritual: I career? I think my career How did you choose your A program in Orange chose me. I was with the CAS n I moved to Bakersfield whe and s, year t eigh for County On a whim, I dropped e. whil a for else ng ethi I did som Kern County off my resume at CASA of uiter the week the volunteer recr resigned, so it was kismet. I have the best job in town.

Name: Jason Cr abtree Age: 22 Occupation: Fir efighter Marital Status: Single

Name: Brad Brazeau Age: 38 Occupation: Fire Captain Marital Status: Single

Name: Nick Latta Age: 25 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single

Three words that best describe you: Creative, selfless, intuitive. Hidden talent: Finding humor in non-humorous situations. Personal motto: ”Always be humble and grateful in life.” Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No, I do a full background check through a private investigator. Do you Twitter? No, I hate twits. Love me, love my: Dog. Your theme song: “All Summer Long” by Kid Rock. What book is currently on your nightstand? The River Why by David James Duncan. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Roll With Me” by Montgomery Gentry or “How Far We’ve Come” by Matchbox Twenty. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? My perpetual romantic optimism. Yes ladies, this is where you say “Awww, how sweet.” Favorite age so far: 37. Each year just keeps getting better.

Three words that best describe you: Secure, honorable, single. Hidden talent: Foosball Jedi. Best-kept local secret: Pappy’s. Love me, love my: Truck. Best cartoon: The Smurfs. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Sinner.” Your theme song: “Gives You Hell” by the All American Rejects. What book is currently on your nightstand? If A Pirate I Must Be: The True Story of Black Bart, King of the Caribbean Pirates by Richard Sanders. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? G.I. Joe collection. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My career. Most unusual ritual: Brush my teeth in the shower. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Drinking with the fellas. How did you choose your career? It’s a family career. Signature first date move? The “whisper.” Three things you look for in a friend: Able to keep secrets...

Name: Peggy Mizener Age: 41 Occupation: Business Owner, Bella Donna Salon & Boutique and Here Kitty Kitty Apparel Company Marital Status: Single

Name: Christine Hennings Age: My mom always told me to keep ‘em guessing Occupation: Owner of Jezabelle’s (Men and Women’s Clothing Boutique) Marital Status: Single

Three words that best describe you: Tenacious, funny, and unstoppable. Hidden talent: Twirling a fire baton... Personal motto: Under no circumstances, never, ever, give up! Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No, I prefer not to judge until I meet the person face to face…the eyes never lie! Best-kept local secret: Bella Donna Salon & Boutique! One thing you can’t live without: I’d have to say laughter. It would be pretty rough without it! Love me, love my: Loud laugh and bold personality! Your theme song: “Back In Black” by AC/DC. What book is currently on your nightstand? Tommyland by Tommy Lee. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My relentless determination and focus that has been the driving force in the challenges life has thrown my way.

Three words that best describe you: Independent, spontaneous, liberal. Your pet peeve is: Men that don’t agree “Women Are Right Always.” Hidden talent: How to stretch a dollar. Personal motto: “Nothing is too Big for Me to Handle.” Your theme song: “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. What book is currently on your nightstand? The Cat in the Hat By Dr. Seuss. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? College black book. Favorite food/dish: Whatever you’re cooking. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My son, Chase Diesel. Favorite age so far: The one I’m at now. Most unusual ritual: I drink a red beer before every Nebraska Cornhusker game. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? At home!

Three words tha t best describe you: Lo yal, shy, grateful. Hidden talent: I can trip on a flat surface. Personal motto : Live life with no regrets. Best-kept local secret: Country Boy on Rosedale Love me, love my Highway. : Golden Retrieve r. Your theme song : “Play That Funk y Music, White Wild Cherry. Boy” by What book is cu rrently on your nig htstand? Monster Autobiography of : The an L.A. Gang Me mber by Sanyika What song is on Shakur. repeat on your iPo d? “Sweet Home Alabama” by Ly nard Skynard. What are you mo st proud of at thi s point in your My relationship life? with my parents and family. Favorite age so far: 22. Most unusual rit ual: Drinking co ffee and watering lawn...I have au my tomatic sprinkle rs. It’s 9 p.m. on a Sa turday night...w he re are you? With friends out and about, looking for my nothing good to do.

Three words that best describe you: Adventurous, generous. and sassy. Personal motto: Live life to the fullest and take pictures...lots of pictures. Do you Google your date before you go out with them? Yes and I also check their criminal record. Do you Twitter? Yes, I love to read what people are saying all over the country. Best-kept local secret: Shafter Airport Museum. One thing you can’t live without: Besides air and water, music! Love me, love my: Sense of humor and my 1953 pick-up. What book is currently on your nightstand? The Time Machine by H.G. Wells. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? My old combat boots from the ‘80s. Favorite food/dish: My mother’s lemon-ginger fried spaghetti and El Dorado casserole. Best cartoon: Ren and Stimpy. Most unusual ritual: Sea salt bath and smudging.

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Flame©istockphoto.com/deedl

Name: Tamara Christian Age: 39 Occupation: Investigative Field Producer for Channel 29/58 Marital Status: Single

Name: Ben Gallaher Age: 23 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single

: Heidi Freeman

Name Age: 37 les Manager, Occupation: Sa y’s dd Sugarda Divorced Marital Status: t best describe Three words tha , optimistic. you: Loyal, joyful oblem solving. Pr t: en tal en dd Hi ur date before yo le og Go u Do yo is best. ion ss pre im t them? No...a firs . ow you go out with orr s tom : There’s alway Personal motto ring? on No...what’s Twitte r? itte Tw u yo children, and so Do My ut: tho wi e n’t liv One thing you ca grandchild. : Teenage son. Sun” Love me, love my d? “Blister in the eat on your iPo rep on What song is mmes. n’t? by the Violent Fe ow away, but ca ng you should thr thi me so is t ha W . ay greeting cards de. Childhood holid tail: Cherry limea ck /co nk dri e d red onions Favorit ate rin ma — ue ish: Basq Favorite food/d and tomatoes. far: 34. Favorite age so , Edd, n Eddy. Best cartoon: Ed r? Like mother, oose your caree How did you ch like daughter.

46 Bakersfield Magazine

Three words that best describe you: Rugged, suave, familyoriented. Your pet peeve is: Girls who don’t unlock your car door for you after you open theirs. Love me, love my: Johnny Cash music collection. Hidden talent: I can wiggle my ears. Best-kept local secret: The bluffs. One thing you can’t live without: My iPod. Your theme song: “Rockstar” by Nickelback. What book is currently on your nightstand? The Watchmen. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Lit Up” by Buckcherry. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? Old movie stubs. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? Becoming a fireman. Best cartoon: Calvin and Hobbes. How did you choose your career? I had a passion for those who need help. Signature first date move? Listening.

Name: Guinnevere Warren Age: 32 Occupation: School bus Driver/ Preschool Teacher Marital Status: Single Three words that best describe you: Creative, positive, giggly. Hidden talent: Everyone knows I am a talented seamstress. Need any pants hemmed? Personal motto: The Golden Rule. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Best-kept local secret: Joseph’s Italian Restaurant. Love me, love my: Fabrics. Your theme song: It hasn’t been written yet! What book is currently on your night stand? Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Bathwater” by No Doubt. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? An old melted Tupperware strainer that is a hand-medown from my mom. I just can’t part with it. It is an artifact from my childhood. Favorite food/dish: My friend Angela’s macaroni and cheese. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? I am very proud of the great friends that I have acquired. Some are old and some are new but I appreciate all of them and the support they give me.

Name: Kellie Me iners Age: 25 Occupation: Ma nicurist Marital Status: Single

Name: Nicole Raymond Age: 39 Occupation: Photographer Marital Status: Engaged Three words that best describe you: Down to earth. Your pet peeve is: Reality TV. Do you Twitter? Yes, just recently for the first time. Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No, but sometimes I wished I had. Best-kept local secret: Jitter’s Café Taco Tuesdays. One thing you can’t live without: Chocolate. Love me, love my: Camera, I try to take it everywhere. That can sometimes annoy people. What book is currently on your nightstand? Ancient World Commanders. I love exploring ancient times. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My daughter, Colleen. Most unusual ritual: Going out for movies and Chinese food on Christmas Day. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Home, curled up with my fiancé and a good movie. How did you choose your career? It chose me. Ever since I was a little girl, I have always wanted to capture the beauty that I see in nature and humanity.

tterson Name: Chris Pa Age: 23 efighter/Fitness Occupation: Fir model Very single Marital Status: t best describe Three words tha s, uplifting, rou ntu ve Ad you: rant. vib ly ab oll uncontr have the ability . Hidden talent: I being detected l jokes without ery man ev t no t to play practica .bu s.. : “Every man die Personal motto th them? truly lives.” e you go out wi your date befor anted. Do you Google erica’s Most W Am on m the seen e I’v nk . thi I ns if Only shenaniga d : Sarcasm and ve Got the Worl Love me, love my on your iPod? “I’ t ea rep on is What song Frank Sinatra. n’t? on a String” by ow away, but ca ng you should thr What is somethi hat. t stirred. My old cowboy rtini...shaken no cktail: Vodka ma /co nk dri e rit vo Fa ish: Lobster. Favorite food/d gets better. far: Every year so e ag e Favorit . m & Jerry ing to Best cartoon: To here are you? Try turday night...w . It’s 9 p.m. on a Sa be to I’m supposed enemy! remember where give secrets to the te move? I can’t Signature first da

Name: Eddie Ochoa Age: 45 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single Three words that best describe you: Fun, passionate, humorous. Your pet peeve is: I cannot tolerate rudeness. Hidden talent: Cooking. Personal motto: Work to give; work hard and have fun. Do you Twitter? Definitely not! Won’t do it. Best-kept local secret: Sub Station—Arizona Café. Your theme song: “It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere.” What book is currently on your nightstand? Pyramid of Success by John Wooden. What song is on repeat on your iPod? I don’t own an iPod. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? My Mr. Magoo pillowcase. I’ve had it since I was five. Favorite food/dish: Italian. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My children. How did you choose your career? At 18, I saw some firefighters and liked their “Team First” mental approach.

Three words tha t best describe you: Cr eative, kind, and sassy. Do you Google your date before you go ou t with them? I can honestly sa y I have never done that...but it’s a fabulous ide a! Do you Twitter? Absolutely not! Best-kept local secret: If I told you, it wouldn’t secret! be a One thing you ca n’t live without: My stilettos. Love me, love my : Crazy and silly personality. What book is cu rrently on your nightstand? A ph with all my fam oto book ily and friends’ pictures. What is somethi ng you should thr ow away, but ca The sock puppets n’t? my sister and I ma de a few month It was a fun tim s ago. e we had togeth er be ing silly and hang out, but really, wh ing o makes sock pu ppets at age 25? Favorite drink/co cktail: Drink wo uld be Diet Coke cocktail would ... be a White Russ ian. Most unusual rit ual: A lot of tim es, I sleep with under the pillow my head .

Name: Isabel Alvarez Age: 21 Occupation: Editorial Assistant/ Photographer Bakersfield Magazine Marital Status: Oh so single, baby! Three words that best describe you: Random, sarcastic, and flirty. Your pet peeve is: Aside from slow drivers, people who are dishonest. And flakes! Hidden talent: Juggling men. Personal motto: When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. Do you Google your date before you go out with them? No! I think that would be a little weird. Then again, does finding out where they work, live, and running their credit count? Do you Twitter? No, but my boss (Mike) thinks I should... Best-kept local secret: The amazing views and romantic vibe the Park at Riverwalk has at night. What book is currently on your nightstand? Not a book but a camera manual. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? Having the opportunity and privilege of saying that I work for such an amazing magazine!

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Name: Marcus Rodriguez Age: 36 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single

Name: Mitchell E. Green Age: 29 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single Three words that best describe you: Honest, quiet, shy. Your pet peeve is: Lying. Best-kept local secret: Pizza Factory. One thing you can’t live without: Family and friends. Personal motto: Live life to the fullest. Your theme song: “American Soldier” by Toby Keith. What book is currently on your nightstand? The Bible. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Leave Out All The Rest” by Linkin Park. Favorite drink/cocktail: Beer. Favorite food/dish: Chicken fried steak. Most unusual ritual: Turn tab to the right on all cans. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Hanging out with friends or at work. Signature first date move? Show up. Three things you look for in a friend: Honest, fun, good-hearted. What do you want people to know about Bakersfield? There are a lot of good opportunities.

Three words that best describe you: Bashful, sleepy, grumpy. Hidden talent: Some people read palms of hands. I read soles of feet. Do you Twitter? Negative. Do you Google your date before you go out with them? Before, during, and after. One thing you can’t live without: My ankle tracking device. Love me, love my: Pink couch. Your theme song: “One” by U2 and Johnny Cash. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Don’t Think Twice” by Mike Hess. What book is currently on your nightstand? Actually, my nightstand is a milk crate and it’s on a book. What is something you should throw away, but can’t? This form (I signed my name). Favorite food/dish: Ice cream. Best cartoon: Tom & Jerry. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Square dancing at the Fairfax Grange. Three things you look for in a friend: Big heart, good storyteller, wit.

Name: Jacqueline Etcheveste Age: 55 Occupation: Esthetician, owner Golden Youth Rejuvenation Centre & Spa Marital Status: Single Three words that best describe you: Ambitious, workaholic, humorous. Hidden talent: If I tell you it won’t be hidden! Love me, love my: Kitty. Your theme song: “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. What book is currently on your nightstand? Younger Next Year for Women by Chris Crowley and Henry Lodge. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith. Favorite drink/cocktail: Pinot Noir. Favorite food/dish: Basque Food. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My business and my family. Favorite age so far: 55. Best cartoon: Rocky and Bullwinkle. How did you choose your career? I had acne as a teenager so I was always interested in skin care. Three things you look for in a friend: Loyalty, compassion, and the ability to make me laugh. What do you want people to know about Bakersfield? Bakersfield is still a small town where people know each other and help each other. It is also a prosperous and economically comfortable place to live.

Name: Helen C. Sheeter Age: 47 Occupation: Pr ogram Manage r at Kern Regiona l Center and marriage and fam ily therapist Marital Status: Widowed

getting a little CARRIED AWAy?

48 Bakersfield Magazine

Three words tha t best describe you: Ambitious, caring, fun to be with. Your pet peeve is: Smoking. Hidden talent: Clo g- and tap-danc ing. Personal motto : Do something when you get the as you never kn chance ow when you mi ght get another to do it. chance Love me, love my : My daughter an d my animals (B Lab and 2 cats) lack . Your theme song : “Hot Legs” by Rod Stewart. What book is cu rrently on your nightstand? Th What is somethi e Betrayal. ng you should thr ow away, but ca Shoes I don’t we n’t? ar anymore as I thi nk I am going to them some day. wear What are you mo st proud of at thi s point in your My daughter an life? d my education . Favorite age so far: They have all been an adventu I would not trade re and any of them due to the experienc have had and the es I things I have lea rned.

Name: Dana Culhane Age: 23 Occupation: Press Secretary for Assemblywoman Jean Fuller Marital Status: Single

binson Name: Derek Ro Age: 40 e Captain Occupation: Fir Divorced Marital Status: t best describe Three words tha rcastic, sa , tic hle At u: yo adventurous. is: People still Your pet peeve g on their cell kin tal d driving an . phones. und the kitchen know my way aro cessarily ne n’t do Hidden talent: I le op : The happiest pe most of Personal motto y just make the everything; the of st be the ve ha th them? everything. e you go out wi your date befor te. da Do you Google t firs a of t the fun ou That would take a waste of time. No, seems like Do you Twitter? O2 (oxygen). ut: n’t live witho One thing you ca Steelers. the d .an n.. So : Love me, love my Dick Dale. : “Misirlou” by e to have Your theme song iPod? None. I lik ur yo on t ea rep on is ng so t Wha to make it. it all mixed up. like to learn how ish: Sushi—I’d in your life? int Favorite food/d po s thi at st proud of What are you mo set. the goals I have Accomplishing w. no ht Rig : far alty, Favorite age so end: Honesty, loy u look for in a fri Three things yo use. rsfield? and a beach ho ow about Bake nt people to kn What do you wa heart. Small town, big

Three words that best describe you: Dedicated, fun, and honest. Hidden talent: At first glance, people don’t expect me to have my sense of humor! I could also mention my sharp shootin’ skills, but then again I wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise at the shooting range! Personal motto: I will never be faced with anything I don’t already have the strength to overcome! Do you Google your date before you go out with them? I may have done that once or twice (wink wink). Do you Twitter? My friends encourage me to Twitter, but it’s so hard to remember to do it. Best-kept local secret: The sushi at Miyoshi! The Yellow Submarine always puts a smile on my face.

Name: Greg Perpich Age: 28 Occupation: Firefighter Marital Status: Single

One thing you can’t live without: Music/iPod! I never go anywhere without it, and very rarely work without music in the background. Love me, love my: Family and close friends! I love them and they continue to support me. What book is currently on your nightstand? I’m reading two books right now, because one is never enough! The Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne and Three Weeks With My Brother by Nicholas Sparks. What song is on repeat on your iPod? It’s currently on random...that way I’m always surprised as to what will play next! Favorite age so far: Right now! I wouldn’t trade this past year for anything, and it’s only going to get better. Three things you look for in a friend: Integrity, loyalty, and a great sense of humor.

Name: Sandra Treto Age: 26 Occupation: Real Estate Salesperson Marital Status: Single

Three words that best describe you: Responsible, spontaneous, loyal. Your pet peeve is: A dirty vehicle. Personal motto: Attitude is everything. Best-kept local secret: Jake’s Tex Mex. Love me, love my: Truck. Your theme song: “Party Like a Rockstar.” What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Burning Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash. Favorite drink/cocktail: Pyramid Hefeweizen with an orange slice. Favorite food/dish: Sushi. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? Becoming a fireman. It’s 9 p.m. on a Saturday night...where are you? Out with friends. How did you choose your career? Wanted to make my parents proud. What do you want people to know about Bakersfield? It’s close to whatever you want to do.

Three words that best describe you: Expressive, optimistic, overachiever. Your pet peeve is: People who are late. If you say 1:00 p.m. it means 1:00 p.m., not 1:01 p.m. Personal motto: Failure is not an option. Do you Google your date before you go out with them? I haven’t gone on a date in, like, seven years, but when I do I guess it is a good idea. Best-kept local secret: Love Sushi on Coffee Road. One thing you can’t live without: 5-inch heels. Love me, love my: Addiction to work. Your theme song: “Unfaithful” by Rhianna. What book is currently on your nightstand? Change Your Brain, Change Your Life by Daniel G. Amen, M.D. What song is on repeat on your iPod? “Please Don’t Leave Me” by Pink. What are you most proud of at this point in your life? My burning desire for success. Favorite age so far: I would say 9 months old, when you have no fear and still don’t walk so you can’t fall.

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50 Bakersfield Magazine

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Singles 2009 51

F rsts A kiss. A job. A broken bone. Seemingly unrelated things (heaven help the person who doesn’t think so) but there is one common link for all three: there was always the first time. While there are important milestones in our lives, each and every first we live through shapes how we view the world, how we interact with others, and even how we approach our second kiss. That’s why we sought out some pretty nifty people in Bakersfield to share with us an integral first in their life. But don’t worry... we didn’t ask about anyone’s first kiss. We’re of the mindset that those stories shouldn’t be shared! 52 Bakersfield Magazine

My First Storm Chase Miles Muzio Meteorologist, Channel 29 At the tender age of 5, I beheld for the first time a Texas tornado. Equally as massive and unstoppable as the ocean, it imprinted such a mark on my persona that it remains to this day— more than 50 years later. Not long afterward, my family was transferred to Okinawa, near Japan. Our plane landed at Naha in “Condition 2,” a weather status of the time that meant a typhoon was within 24 hours from hitting the island. The storm pummeled Okinawa with ferocious winds and blinding rain. Then, at the height of the violence, it came to an abrupt end, vanishing on the horizon. The sun came out revealing a strange calmness amidst the muggy surroundings. Nonetheless, my parents told me that this was only a temporary respite—not to be embraced. About a half hour later the fury of nature returned, this time even louder. I remember the tremendous noise, the musty smell of rain and humidity, the surprise false ending and then the continuation of a tropical siege. What did I learn? That a typhoon is something completely different from anything I had experienced before in my young life. It is a package of sensations not found elsewhere—that can damage or kill. Plus, there is this little surprise if the cyclone drives right over the top of you—the eye of the storm. Coming on the heels of my first tornado a few months before, it changed my life. I would become a weather forecaster. When told they were called “meteorologists,” I liked the idea even more. Virtually my entire life has become a quest to understand the atmosphere; to both predict its movements while appreciating its beauty. My wife and I just returned from our latest storm chase to Nebraska in search of more tornadoes. But this passion of mine would never have developed had it not been for the collection of natural events that crossed my path at a very young age.

Miles Muzio

Storm Chase My First Hole-in-One Joe Haggerty, PGA Director of Golf, Seven Oaks Country Club It happened when I was 17 years old and I was playing with my dad at North Kern Golf Course back in 1976. He had two of his friends playing with us in a foursome, and we were playing in a money game. I hit a five iron, 186 yards, on hole 11. When I took the ball out of the hole, I remember the two other guys saying I was going to buy them dinner that night at Wool Growers. So I worried the rest of the round because I only had $2 in my pocket. How was I going to buy them dinner with only $2? I had to ask my dad to help me, and in the end it all worked out. He paid for

their drinks and dinners. This is how I found out that it was customary to buy everyone drinks when you make a holein-one. To date, I have had 2 Albatross’, 41 par four eagles, and 3 hole-in-ones since, and enough money in my pocket to pay for the drinks. My First Day Driving a Bus Karen King, CEO, Golden Empire Transit On my first day after completing training, in the summer of 1976, when I was driving “solo,” I was assigned to drive a route in a part of town (Salt Lake City) with which I was only vaguely familiar. I made a wrong turn and ended up on a dead-end residential street. In training, they taught

JOE HAGGERTY

Hole-in-One

KAREN KING

Driving a Bus us to never go off route and never back up a bus unless you have someone outside who can watch your clearances. The street was much too narrow to do a Uturn and I was afraid to back up onto the major arterial I had turned off of. A nice young woman who was riding my bus and who happened to be very pregnant, volunteered to help spot my clearances while I tried a three-point turn around. Needless to say, turning a 40-foot-long bus around on a narrow residential street took more than three maneuvers. So, there we were, she and her very large belly standing in the street waving and yelling while I inched the bus backwards and forwards to get it turned around. The other passengers on the bus all lined up

CATHY BUTLER

at the windows with their faces pressed against the glass to make sure I didn’t hit any parked cars. It was quite a sight. It even drew out a few of the residents from the neighborhood who hadn’t seen a bus on their street before. When I was finally turned around and my spotter finally reentered the bus everyone inside and outside let out a loud cheer. As I pulled forward to turn back on route, I knew everything was going to be OK. My First Downtown Street Faire Cathy Butler, President, Downtown Business Association Most people think of the Downtown Street Faires on Chester Avenue, but the first Street Faire was actually called Fall

Street Faire

Harvest Festival held in October of 1984 on 20th Street, between Chester and Eye. We coordinated a BBQ cook off between Ken Reed, the then DBA president, and KERO’s new weatherman Rusty Shoop. It was a fun event; we held an old fashion western shoot-out in front of Korb’s Western Store, located at the northwest corner of 20th and Chester. But, this event needed to grow, therefore we traveled to San Luis Obispo to learn from their successful Street Faires. We learned that when SLO added farmers to their event it grew into the faire so many people enjoy today. Charles Drew, head of the Kern County Farmers’ Market, was serving on the DBA Board and at that time was holding the Farmers Market on Eye Street, between 18th and 19th on Saturday mornings. Mr. Drew wanted to strengthen what DBA started on 20th Street, therefore expressed the need to hold our event on Chester. We were told by the city there was an ordinance against closing our main street for such an event. Mr. Drew searched and found there was no such ordinance. Therefore, Mr. Drew appeared before the City Council (back then council meetings ran into the wee hours of the morning) around 1 a.m. The DBA’s request came before the council. The Bakersfield Police Chief spoke against closing Chester for fear there would be security problems. Mark Salvaggio, at that time a new City Councilman, spoke up and asked the council to approve on a trial basis to see what happens. It was approved and we promoted the Faire, drawing 10,000 people to our first Chester Avenue Street Faire. The Police Chief sent out the SWAT team because, surely with that many people downtown there would be problems. Of course there were none—just families having a good time on Bakersfield’s main street.

My First Day Teaching Larry Reider, Retired Superintendent of Schools My first day in education was on the first Tuesday after Labor Day in 1965. I was a 5th grade teacher and junior high coach at Meridian School in the Arvin Union School District. Meridian was located at the corner of Wheeler Ridge and David Road and was a K-8 school of about 250 students. It closed in 1974; but I have wonderful memories of Meridian. I came to Arvin as a 22-year-old farm boy, fresh out of college in Washington State, to begin my career in education. I was immediately attracted to Kern County because of the agriculture; the willingness for people to get things done; and, above all, the people in Kern County. My first class was about 35 students, virtually all of them children of farm workers or farm owners. I am sure they were unsure about having their first “man teacher.” I was prepared because one of the things I learned during my student teaching days was to always be over-prepared in the classroom. To this day, I still “over-prepare.” We spent time telling each other about ourselves; and then I had them write a paper on what they hoped to learn from 5th grade. This was my version of the “What I Did Last Summer” paper which many teachers used the first day of school. Forty-four years later, I have just retired from a wonderful career in Kern County education. The first day in 1965 was just as much fun as my last day was, on June 30, 2009. I owe that first class (many of whom are successful contributors to Kern County today) a great deal for giving me such a great start in Kern County. >>

LARRY REIDER

Teaching

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My First Shooting Donny Youngblood Kern County Sheriff On February 6, 1973, I was about to complete the Reserved Deputy Academy. I was also employed as a Correctional Officer for the Kern County Sheriff’s Department. As part of the academy, I was assigned on this day for my first time ever in a patrol car. I was put with Deputy Danny Ahl who was also a K9 handler. We cleared briefing and within a couple hours had handled a couple small disturbances. As we approached California Ave., northbound on Union, we heard Deputy Wayne Perry get assigned to a burglar alarm at El Tejon Drugs on North Chester. Dan let me know they were always false alarms. We heard Wayne arrive on scene. A minute or two later as we turned eastbound on California we heard, “attention all units shots fired at El Tejon Drugs. ”The lights and siren came on and after a quick U-turn we were headed to Oildale at 100 m.p.h. As we got closer we heard, “999 officer down.” This was broad daylight, the siren was wailing, and the dog was howling as I tried to process what I had heard. Dan released the shotgun and gave me a five-second class on how to use it. “Holy crap!” went through my mind as the adrenalin rushed through me. I was really having a hard time gathering in my emotions. We had just left Wayne in briefing a couple of hours earlier. Was he dead? This was real! We found Wayne sitting down and leaning up against a house just southeast of the

old El Tejon Drugs. He had chased the escaping burglar around the corner of a house where the burglar laid in wait, shooting Wayne three times. The CHP had arrived and, with Wayne, returned fire on the suspect who was lying in the yard about 15 feet from Wayne. I was assigned to watch him. He was being treated by a nurse as we watched him leave this earth. Wayne fully recovered and eventually returned to work. I knew from that day forward what my calling was. But more importantly it was ingrained in my head, always expect the unexpected. I have used that incident hundreds of times in my career. My First State Court Case Milt Younger, Lawyer When I first saw pretty little Cynthia she was three years old. She could kick her feet—that was all. She was otherwise paralyzed, blind, and deaf. It was one of those heart-wrenching cases you never forget. And one I haven’t forgotten to this day. When Cynthia was just one month old, her mother was driving home from a “well baby check.” She was a healthy baby. Her mother had carefully placed her in an “Infantseat,” a product manufactured by a large corporation which primarily made children’s furniture. Her mother wore a seat belt and her two siblings were also belted in the back of the car. Cynthia was strapped into the infant seat with the passenger seat belt fastened around it—just as shown in the picture which accompanied the product. The caption

DONNY YOUNGBLOOD

54 Bakersfield Magazine

Shooting

milt younger on the picture said “baby is safe and secure.” What a false security this portrayed. At a rural intersection, a car violated the right of way of Cynthia’s car. Her mother swerved and avoided the collision, but struck a cement culvert. Mom and the two other children in the back seat were fine, but the “Infantseat” came out of the seatbelt. Cynthia’s head struck the glove compartment causing serious, life-altering injuries. Unfortunately, the manufacturer had failed to provide for a safe integration of the “Infantseat” and the car seatbelt. The “Infantseat” was a defective product as were thousands of other similarly-designed baby carriers at that time. The manufacturer had never tested the baby carrier under crash conditions. It claimed no other manufacturers did this and that it made the product as safe as other manufacturers did. No law or regulation required such testing. The case was tried and lost. However, I prevailed on appeal. The court said it was no defense that other manufacturers made baby carriers the same defective way. The case was then retried. Not long after, I had an opportunity to testify at the California state legislature which then adopted the law requiring baby carriers to be dynamically tested. No doubt this law has saved many other babies and spared their families the anguish that little Cynthia’s experienced. I am proud of what I was able to accomplish with this case. But I will never forget little Cynthia. My First Solo Exhibit Edward Reep WWII War Artist/Painter It was Hollywood, 1946. I had just come back from World War II, after serving as a war artist and painting 100 pieces for the government depicting life as a soldier. Incidentally, those paintings are all at the Pentagon. And in 1946, I won the Guggenheim Fellowship which paid me to paint for a year. I shuffled around Hollywood and Los Angeles and painted everything from the downtown scene to San Pedro to Farm-

Edward reep ers’ Markets to railway stations. While I had been a part of other galleries, this was my first solo art show. I showed about 20 of these post-war paintings from April 20 to May 10 of that year at the American Contemporary Gallery. And wouldn’t you know, I didn’t sell a damn one. Sure, there was interest. I had people telling me they were great and some people wouldn’t say a thing. I was petrified the whole time! Later, I’d get people who had attended the exhibit call and ask to buy a painting from me personally. They just didn’t want to pay gallery fees! After a long life of painting, even being commissioned by Life magazine in 1956 to travel the world and paint international airports under the headline of “New Gateways to the World,” I was involved in my last exhibit in 1980 with other famous painters. Wouldn’t you know, I didn’t sell a damn thing there either. I suppose it was a nice way to bookend my career! My First Fire Nick Dunn, Kern County Fire Chief As a rookie firefighter (in 1981), I was assigned to Station 52 Greenfield. It was mid-afternoon and our crew was finishing the second round of business in-service inspections when we received a call of a vehicle accident involving a truck and trailer loaded with fuel on Highway 99. Upon arrival, we found the truck and first trailer in upright position with the second unit on its side and on fire. After a quick evaluation of the scene, the captain ordered us into action. He relayed to the crew there were no injuries and for us to check our personal protection equipment, get our masks and helmets on, and he briefed us with his plan. We were to lay a protective layer of foam on the ground on and around the vehicles and then lob the foam into the opening of the damaged trailer that was burning. While we protected the truck and first trailer with foam, the driver was able to pull away from the damaged trailer as the captain released the hitch. I must admit, as a rookie firefighter, my mind was flashing back to every movie or tele-

nick dunn vision show of a gasoline tanker explosion causing a huge fireball in the air. However, at an early age, I had learned to trust the training, knowledge, and experience of my captain to make the right decision to protect not only his crew, but that of the public. My First Jury Trial Edward Jagels Kern County District Attorney No one knows for sure if he has the makings of a trial lawyer until he has gotten a jury trial under his belt. A newly minted lawyer walking into a courtroom to begin jury selection is usually terrified, and I was no exception in 1975. The experienced defense attorney

scared me, the judge really scared me, the bailiff didn’t look all that friendly, and I was certain I was going to lose in an embarrassing manner. The accusation, driving under the influence, seemed horrendously important to me. I was convinced that if the defendant was acquitted, public safety in Kern County would be a thing of the past. Training in those days consisted of watching someone else put on a jury trial. I did that, but didn’t learn much. During jury selection, a perspective juror said that she was attending a school of cosmetology. I wasn’t sure what that was, but it sounded pretty bad. So I kicked her off, figuring she was probably an adherent of some nutty religion. The evidence unfolded in a relatively straight-forward manner: late at night, a two-man highway patrol car stopped the defendant because his vehicle was weaving over the center line. They gave him a field sobriety test, which he flunked. He then refused to do any more. At the jail, he refused to submit to a breath, blood, or urine test. I rested my case. The defendant then took the stand. He told a completely different story, and finished up by claiming that the officers had picked on him because he was Hispanic. I had no idea how to deal with this bombshell. I cross examined him a

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EDWARD JAGELS

Jury Trial bit, probably rather ineffectively, but did establish that either he or the officers had to be lying. During the closing argument, it finally occurred to me that the defendant’s story didn’t make a lot of sense. It seemed inherently unlikely that highway patrol officers Gutierrez and Ramirez had picked on the defendant because he was Hispanic. I tried

to get that point across to the jury. When the jury came back with a 10minute guilty verdict, I was shocked, then elated. Hey, I can do this! Bring on every criminal in Kern County! I can’t remember that first defendant’s name, but I’d like to thank him. His trial persuaded me that I could be a competent prosecutor and was the first milestone in a career which I have loved. >>

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 55

time I close an incision I am reminded of that day as the thrill and excitement of surgery live on.

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Surgery My First Surgery Amir Berjis, Surgeon The first time I held a needle in my hand, I knew I was destined to be a surgeon. The year was 1997 and I was a third-year medical student at Saint Louis University. My chief resident asked me to close an incision at the conclusion of a gallbladder surgery. I was petrified as I took the needle driver. My heart was racing and perspiration began to form, but I closed that incision the best

56 Bakersfield Magazine

I could. One month later, I participated in a heart/double-lung transplant as a medical student. Even though I only held retractors, I was fascinated by the operation. I knew immediately that I wanted to be a thoracic surgeon. What other profession can provide such a thrill and satisfaction at the same time? Several years later, I performed my first lung resection as an attending. My heart was racing and I was anxious, but the surgery went well. Over the years, every

My First Time Getting Involved with Bakersfield Homeless Center Darlene Molkhe, VP Sales and Marketing, Castle & Cooke There are many first in one’s life if they are fortunate enough to grow old, or rather mature nicely. I was a young married mother and had the wonderful support of a hardworking husband who said “raise our children to make a difference in their world and, in turn, a difference will be made in the world.” So when I was ready to start a career some 18 years after having our first child, I looked for something that would make a difference in my life and my community. I believed, and continue to believe, that Castle & Cooke would fulfill both of these visions. My position has provided me the opportunity to continue my involvement in charitable giving by supporting many organizations, but I hold one most dear and can remember the first time I met the new director of the Bakersfield Homeless Center, Louis Gill; a young man, with a degree in nonprofit development who came to meet me, a board member.

He started off telling me about how the face of homeless has changed and how we were not serving children and families, and we needed to get prepared as an organization, as a community, and as a nation to what was headed our way. I was a little stunned and thought “this guy is too young and way too smart to stick around,” so I bluntly asked him how long he planned to stay in Bakersfield, my much loved community, having such a big vision that would surely take him elsewhere. I think I floored him and he said “long enough to make a significant difference in the future of homeless children.” Roll forward a few short years and I was out at the homeless center and I walked for the first time to our “free” licensed day care facility, Discovery Depot,

Darlene Molkhe

and saw the 10 or so preschoolers and babies taking their naps, safe and snug, well-fed, and cared for, and knew for the first time the vision of Louis Gill, our steadfast board of directors, and most importantly, the support of our community, was achieved. I will never, ever stop raising money so that homeless parents can find jobs and know their children will be taken care of while they learn self-sufficiency. This first not only forever changed me, but changed my family as they work side by side with me to ensure the safe and loving environment is maintained for our homeless members of Bakersfield. My First Time Meeting Buck Owens Casey McBride Disc Jockey, KUZZ Radio

Casey McBride

I was so excited as I told my husband of three months, “I got a job!” After being turned down almost everywhere in Bakersfield, I could finally say: I got a job! When I told him it was at Buck Owens Enterprises, he let go one of those low whistles that said he was impressed. To this day, I can’t understand why Dorothy Owens even hired me. I told her my favorite music was rock and roll and classical (a strange combo but it works for me) and she still hired me! Anyway, on the second day at my job in the publicity department, a tall, sandy-haired man walked up to my desk, shook my hand, and called me by name. “Nice to meet you,” I said politely. “And you are?” The whole office went dead quiet, but he smiled and said, “Honey, I’m Buck.” Despite my gaffe, 30 years later I can still say “I got a job.” My First Memorable Glass of Wine Jeramy Brown Sommelier/Co-owner, Valentien As a Bakersfield native, and having family roots in the Basque community, you can say I enjoyed my first glass of wine at a young age. However, the moment when I actually had my first true experience with wine was during my second trip to Europe back in 1992. At

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Glass of Wine the age of 19, I was given the privilege to help coach a youth boys soccer team traveling through Europe during the month of July. Our last stop was in Verona, Italy and the city was hospitable, warm, and the most gracious that we had encountered during our entire trip. The mayor of Verona had requested that our coaching staff meet with him and some of the local youth soccer coaches to share a meal and create some international camaraderie. We arrived at noon with our

tour guide who was elated to be dinning with us. Little did we know, the mayor had reserved our meal at what was considered the finest restaurant in Verona. We journeyed down two flights of stairs to the historic private dinning room. An incredible meal was served with fresh and delicious food that would not stop coming from this delightful kitchen. I remember so much from that day, but nothing stands out like the first glass of red wine I had from the carafe sitting >>

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on the table. It was a 1990 Valpolicella Red Table Wine and it made me stop in mid-speech. My eyes became very focused and everyone sitting at the table next to me slowly stopped their conversation and waited for me to speak. Finally, the mayor cleared his throat and asked me in broken English if I liked the wine. All I can remember saying was that I have never tasted anything like this before and may I have more. As you can image, everyone in the room burst

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leslie walters into laughter. I was by far the youngest person at the table by a good 10 years. After my profound statement, it seemed everyone was a little more at ease and enjoyed themselves more. To this day I cannot remember who the producer of the wine was; sadly I never got to see the bottle. Nevertheless, whenever I drink a Valpolicella, it is like going back in time. I can close my eyes and see, smell, and taste that wonderful day. From that day forward, wine became my first choice of drink when enjoying a special occasion, or a well-prepared meal. Ultimately, that meal lead me to a profession in the restaurant and wine industry. My First Sold House Leslie Walters, Realtor, Walters & Associates I was 19 years old when I entered the real estate business. That was in 1978. My very first transaction was for $226,000 on an old home in Oleander with a tri-plex set of apartments behind it. So naïve was I to what it takes for a lender to underwrite it and close it, I had to be in daily phone contact with the lender. I learned a lot fast, and I earned $8,000 in income during my first 60 days. That was a lot of money back in 1978! I just knew I’d be a millionaire within a few years... Then came the next four months— they were a complete bust! I didn’t earn a cent! That’s when I learned the consequences of going from a 5 percent mortgage interest rate market to a 12 percent market, seemingly overnight. But I was still optimistic, if naïve, for didn’t people still have to

buy and sell real estate? That’s when I decided I should pay attention to how the real pros in our industry practiced the trade. I was fortunate that my first crop of sales were with some of the top Realtors in our market...Gary Belter, David Gay, Cleta Bird, Goldie Loveland. They were not only knowledgeable, but they made the business look fun and easy. The most significant advice I ever got was to simply take care of my customers. And to get customers, I needed to become known in the community. It was up to me to be tenacious about both. My First Visit to Bakersfield Richard Chapman, President, Kern Economic Development Corporation On the foggy evening of October 2, 2006, I arrived in the glistening new William M. Thomas Terminal at Meadows Field. Although the airport was relatively quiet, the facility was bright and polished and extremely welcoming. Up to that point, my perceptions of Bakersfield were colored by Google searches that failed to provide an accurate view of the community. The Wikipedia entry said that Bakersfield was one of two major cities without a major interstate running through it. And the City-Data site prominently featured a photo of telephone wires, brown grass, and traffic on Rosedale Highway. After a relaxing night’s rest, I was off on a whirlwind tour of the area. Even though the interview process is inherently stressful by nature, I was immediately calmed by the hospitable demeanor of everyone that I met in Bakersfield. (Kern EDC’s staff even treated me to root beer floats around one of Guy Chaddock’s room-sized tables.) Lunch was spent at Frugatti’s with enormous calzones, and we finished off with a superb dinner at Café Med. Fortunately for me, I got a call from Kern EDC’s chair bright and early the next morning offering me the position. My family and I are proud to call Kern County home. v

GARDENING WITH MRS. P

Mrs. P’s

t’s that time of year again—late summer— when Mrs. P succumbs to the lyrics of a Kenny Chesney song, “Living in fast forward, need to rewind real slow.” There’s no getting around it, it’s hot and it’s easier to lounge in the shade and let the garden chores wait. This is when Mrs. P takes the time to answer Bakersfield gardeners’ questions. Question: Can you recommend plants that won’t aggravate my allergies? Answer: I hear all of you allergy sufferers loud and clear! Your garden should be a place of solace and relaxation, not a trigger to sneeze or worse. Broadly speaking, the flowers that are less likely to cause an attack are those that are sterile (hydrangeas, for instance) or those that are pollinated by insects. Wind-pollinated flowers (including all grasses) produce far more heavy/sticky pollen than insect-pollinated flowers. The low-allergen plants I’d recommend growing are: bergenia, azaleas, hibiscus, hydrangeas, nandina, passionflowers, plums, rose, smoke bush, viburnums, and sedums. Try to avoid grasses, including ornamental ones, lilies, chrysanthemums, and plants with daisy-like flowers. While pollen gets the bad rap, did you know dust is equally to blame for adverse allergic reactions? Because of our low rainfall, trees and shrubs act as dust bunny traps. Then the wind blows. Then the allergies kick up. This is another reason (the first is purely cosmetic) why Mrs. P hoses everything down in her garden weekly. Question: Have you heard of the “nodig” method of gardening? Can it be true? Answer: Called “absurdly easy,” followers swear it has saved their achy-breaky backs. A fellow I know was able to create a 300-square foot vegetable garden on top of an old cement (yes, cement!) driveway in only two hours. First, you’ll need to gather >>

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By Lynn Pitts

Wheeze & Sneeze be gone, Mrs. P has the cure... www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 59

Gardening with Mrs. P evergreen shrub. They can be shaped as an espalier, screen, hedge, or lollypop. My first perfumed memory of guavas was as a child in Honolulu. My family spent Christmases at the Halekalani Hotel on Waikiki Beach and breakfast was served outdoors, beachside. Now breakfast was not my favorite meal; it was something to speed through, get over with and onto the day. It’s different in Hawaii. You’re basically in paradise and your sense of smell and taste are heightened with everything seemingly in MGM color. What I remember is spooning some pinkish coral-colored jelly onto my toast. This was new; this was different. This was guava jelly! My mother said I wouldn’t like it because it was an “acquired taste.” Was she nuts? I loved it! To this day, if ever I spread guava jelly on toast I am transported back to the Islands. But I digress. There are different varieties of guava, the common and strawberry varieties are mostly found in Hawaii. The feijoa or pineapple guava is what I recommend to grow in Bakersfield. The flowers are lovely and attract bees and birds. Actually, the flowers are edible and can be tossed onto fruit salads, but I’d wait for the small, oval, grayish green fruit to develop (about five months after flowering). If you make jelly from pineapple guavas, you’ll need to cheat a little and add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve the pink-coral color of the strawberry guava. The taste will be the same, no worries. Here’s my recipe for guava jelly:

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.

2 lbs. ripe Guavas 2 1/4 cups of Water 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed Lemon or Lime Juice 7 cups of Sugar (3 1/2 lbs.) 3 oz. liquid Pectin

60 Bakersfield Magazine

Guava Jelly

Strawberry trees can take sun or partial shade and are drought tolerant—a great choice for Kern County.

Question: I’ve fallen in love with the

Madrona trees I saw on a trip to Northern California and really like their look; colorful bark, flowers, and fruit on an evergreen tree. Can they be grown in Bakersfield? Answer: No, next question. OK, I’m joking. But seriously, Madrona trees only grow in what’s known as Madrone Country. This area starts in British Columbia continues down the Coast Ranges and to the mid-elevations of the Sierras. Madronas prefer nonalkaline soil that is very fast draining. We tend toward the opposite in Bakersfield, but all is not lost. There is a super substitute for Madronas and it’s called Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo). A wonderful broad-leaved evergreen that looks almost exactly like a Madrona, Strawberry trees can take sun or partial shade and are drought tolerant. They have the rich, red-brown shredding bark of the Madrona and decorative fruit that resembles clusters of round strawberries. All in all, the Strawberry tree is a good choice. And now it’s time for Mrs. P to set the dial on her hose to jet spray and let those dusty shrubs have it! See you when it cools off! v Wash, trim stems, and slice the guavas. Combine with water in large heavy pot. Cook until fruit is soft and mash thoroughly with a potato masher. Spoon mixture into jelly bag and extract the juice without squeezing over a bowl. Measure out 3 1/2 cups of guava juice; if you are short on juice, add water to make 3 1/2 cups. Combine with the lemon or lime juice and sugar in large heavy pot. Mix thoroughly. Place over high heat and bring to full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Immediately pour in pectin and stir. Bring back to a rolling boil and boil hard for one minute. Still stirring, remove from heat and skim off any foam with a metal spoon. Pour into hot, sterilized jars and seal. Makes approximately eight half-pints.v

©istockphoto.com/jevader/lenta/arissanjaya

your materials which are: newspaper, alfalfa, straw, compost, blood meal, and bone meal. Lay 10 to 20 sheets of newspaper on the ground—soil, grass, or even concrete. This prevents weeds from growing up and attracts worms. Wet thoroughly with water and dust with blood meal and bone meal. Add a pad of alfalfa and dust again with blood and bone meal. Bales of alfalfa and straw come apart in two to three-inch thick pads. Next come eight inches of straw, again dusted with blood and bone meal. Don’t skimp on the alfalfa and straw because it will greatly compress in the first few weeks. Wet all this down. Finally, top off with four inches of compost, which will also compress. Now it’s ready to plant our seeds or seedlings. My friend used five bales of alfalfa and seven bales of straw for roughly $200. After this initial set up, he used much less material after each crop, about three bales a season for maybe $60. This would be a nice project to start in late fall for a winter veggie garden. Alfalfa and straw can be found at grain and hay suppliers. Look under “Feed Dealers” in the yellow pages. Some will even deliver...which would be helpful. There are two books on this “no-dig” method of gardening which you might find interesting: Esther Deans’ No Dig Gardening and Leaves of Life, by Esther Deans and How to have a Green Thumb without an Aching Back: A New Method of Mulch Gardening by Ruth Stout. Question: I try to grow something new or different each year, preferably something good to eat. What do you suggest? Answer: You are a gardener after my own heart! I, too, experiment with unusual, out-ofthe-ordinary plants. Have you ever tasted guava jelly? It’s nectar of the gods, in my opinion. Guavas can be grown in Bakersfield. They’re native to South America, yet the hardiest of the subtropical and can take temps down to 15 degrees. With silvery green leaves and unusual red and white flowers, which remind me of fuchsia flowers on steroids, guavas are an

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Judicious editing freed up a lot of visual space in this room and allowed the remaining pieces to blossom. The china cabinet was bursting with family heirlooms but the collection looked more like a display in a second-hand store. I like the idea of allowing your precious belongings to make a special appearance...like Christmas ornaments. You wouldn’t leave them out all year, would you? Of course not. And that is what will make them so fun and special to display. The space above the china cabinet was a catch-all for items that didn’t quite fit. By trimming the decorative objects down to

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smaller groups and relocating them to other areas in the dining room the space became a little more cohesive.

Renew A new space doesn’t always require new furniture or accessories. In this case, I re-upholstered the dining room chairs in a sumptuous silk-like fabric giving them new life. In addition I covered two of the six chairs in a complementary fabric to give them a slightly more customized look.

Designers Tip: Re-covering a simple chair seat takes more patience than skill and is a cheap fix when the budget doesn’t allow for new furniture. The actual cost for re-covering these six chairs: $15. I kid you not. The space languished for an appropriate lighting fixture. An impromptu stop at a local second-hand store resulted in a brandnew chandelier for just $40! How can you beat that? When finally revealed, this dining room went from “forgotten” to “focal point.” All it takes is a little risk-taking: learning to re-cover your own chairs can be very rewarding as well as thrifty. A romantic and dark color on a single wall can give any room that designer feel without the price. Finally, allowing your personal belongings to shine by rotating them throughout the year can give your space that gallery quality. Take a good look around your home to see if one of your rooms can utilize the three Rs. Then get to work.

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64 Bakersfield Magazine

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 / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 65

QUICK BITES WITH LOCAL FLAVOR

Quick & Easy

Tired of the same old “ham and cheese” for lunch? Well, have we got a summer treat for you. Christina Galvan, owner of Big Popy’s Deli, created a scrumptious and savory item sure to please the palate. This one-of-a-kind sandwich, made just for you featuring local ingredients (many of which are from Murray Family Farms), is fun to make and fun to eat. It will make those pastrami on ryes seem bland in comparison. So before you order in, think about preparing this fresh, delectable Summer Fiesta Sandwich.

Ingredients for sandwich Lime Chipotle Pork Tenderloin (roughly one pound) Peach Salsa • Arugula • Ciabatta Bread Marinade for pork tenderloin 1/4 cup fresh lime juice • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice 1/4 cup honey • 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro • 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 2 Tsp. kosher salt 1 chipotle pepper in adobe sauce Mix the above ingredients, minus the tenderloin, in a large Ziplock bag. After all ingredients are thoroughly mixed together, place the pork tenderloin in the bag. Marinate for at least one hour. While tenderloin is marinating, prepare the peach salsa. Peach salsa ingredients 2 ripe peaches, medium dice • 1/8 red onion, small dice 1/4 red bell pepper, medium dice 1 Tbsp. minced cilantro 1 Tbsp. orange juice • 1 Tbsp. lime juice 1 Tbsp. olive oil • 1 minced jalapeño Stir all ingredients together in a glass bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.

When it comes to serving up excitement, Christina Galvan’s Summer Fiesta Sandwich is sure to delight.

66 Bakersfield Magazine

For the best flavor, grill the tenderloin on a barbecue. Once grill is lit and heated, remove the tenderloin from the plastic bag and place on the grill. Rotate the tenderloin every three to four minutes until the internal temperature is 140 degrees. Remove tenderloin from the grill and wrap in foil. Let the meat rest about 10 minutes. While the meat is resting, drizzle olive oil on the inside of the Ciabatta bread slices and grill until lightly toasted. Slice the tenderloin and place across toasted Ciabatta. Then, top with arugula and peach salsa. After that, all you have to do is enjoy.

Cuisine: party on a roll

WHAT’S COOKIN’

exotic indulgence

Toro’s Tiger Roll is a curiously delicious concoction of tempura shrimp, tuna, masago, cucumber and avocado.

By Mike Stepanovich

I’m bullish on Toro Fusion Sushi Bar and Grill. This is a place where you can not only indulge in exquisite sushi, but also find a myriad of other delights. That’s because Toro is more than a Japanese restaurant; it’s Japanese-Korean fusion, and has some delicious crossover dishes that are certain to bring you back for more. Toro is still relatively new to the Bakersfield dining scene, opening its doors in early 2007 in The Marketplace, near the southern entrance to California State University, Bakersfield. Regular readers will know that I greatly enjoy sushi, and so of course I had to try the new place. I was taken

in Japanese seaweed, a paper-thin black wrap, but some maki sushi, such as the California roll, have the rice on the outside. Sashimi, also found at sushi restaurants, is any raw fish chilled, sliced, and arranged without rice, according to varied sources.

with the atmosphere, the décor, the service, and, of course, the cuisine.

Sushi has been around for more than a millennium. According to a

Others must have been taken with it, too, because a second Toro recently

short history of sushi by Jorie Nolen, the practice of coating salted >>

opened in the Clarion Hotel at 3540 Rosedale Highway. With the new outlet seemingly came a new name—or at least a modification of the original. The menu still says “Toro Sushi, Bar, Grill,” but your bill says the restaurant is named “Toro Fusion Grill.” What’s in a name,

The Fire Cracker appetizer is sure to ignite your taste buds.

I thought; let’s give the new place a try. At this point it may be useful to define sushi, since many people still think that it is just raw fish. Not so. In fact, according to eatsushi.com, rice is actually the key ingredient, as sushi is anything made with vinegared rice. There are two distinctive types of sushi: n Nigiri sushi, which eatsushi.com and other sushi sites define as pieces of fish, shellfish, or roe over hand-shaped rice balls. n Maki sushi, the popular rolled sushis. Typically the whole roll is rolled

Cuisine: try something new

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 67

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Cuisine: try something new fish with rice and letting the natural fermentation of the rice preserve the fish, came to Japan about 1,300 years ago from Southeast Asia and China. The drawback was that the process took a long time—anywhere from two months to a year. Various techniques were used to shorten the process, but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that a chef from Tokyo developed the technique that most resembles modern sushi. One of the traditions, Nolen says, of the sushi chef is that he or she continually strives to master the skills, and in doing so develops new creations “for the delight of the patron...serving an array of bright colors, mouthwatering tastes, and tingling sensations.”That is why you will see on the sushi menu a collection of popular rolls developed over the years, including the California roll (reportedly quite popular in Japan). But each sushi bar or restaurant will also have a list of specials that are the creation of that restaurant’s chef. That part of the menu is the restaurant’s signature—its sushi statement, if you will. That’s why, since a California roll is available virtually anywhere—like a grill-and-bar restaurant having a hamburger on the menu—it’s often not all that interesting. They’re also inexpensive. For example, a California roll,

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This really is on the menu—“Seared Ahi tuna sashimi with house special sauce”—and it sounds, uh, thrilling, but at nearly $16 a roll, it’s a little more than what I’d like to pay for my midday meal, so I’m saving that roll for a special occasion. For a little bit more than $16, I enjoyed an appetizer shared with my friend Aimee during a recent lunch at the

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Rosedale Toro, plus a three-item “Lunch Box.” Let’s start with the appetizer. We thought the Fire Cracker ($8.95) would ignite our taste buds. The presentation was beautiful: a mound of spicy tuna mixed with chopped tomatoes, criss-crossed with orange and brown sauces, with Continued on page 72 >>

Entertaining the Bakersfield Way

got sprinkles? By Jason Gutierrez

Raspberries, to me, are the perfect fruit of the summer. Blueberries are equally as inviting during the hot months, but a freshly chilled bowl of raspberries can spark the taste buds and the imagination. And that’s how my kitchen became a safe zone and a war zone in one afternoon. I love ice cream! Who doesn’t, right? Making ice cream, we’ll that’s a whole other story. There was a point in the middle of my bold adventure when I sat down in the middle of the kitchen and thought, “ice cream should be left to be made by professionals.”Who’s got the number for Ben and Jerry? I get flustered in the kitchen. A naturally born chef, I am not. I’m more of the “let’s order out” kind of guy, but in moments of inspiration and ambition I’ll set foot onto the culinary battlefield and usually straight to the microwave. The first time I attempted to make ice cream was on a whim. I was thinking it over in my head and it sounded like a pretty good idea. I imagined it would be fairly simple. Keep in mind it was the middle of the weekend and I had the Food Network on all day. Paula Dean and Rachel Ray make anything look possible. Sandra Lee reminds me to keep it simple and semi-homemade. Intuition should kick in and say, “no.” Instead I kicked in with a craving for ice cream. Ding! The light bulb went off in my head; all I needed was an ice cream making machine. And I would do it myself. So I bought one, naturally. In these moments of genius, I ride the wave and never look back. I decided, for my first time, a simple fruit-flavored dessert would be best. Enter my zeal for raspberries. I found a very simple ice cream recipe that required half and half, whipping cream, fruit, milk, vanilla, and sugar. Could I possibly screw this up? Probably not but still I thought, it’s best to stick with, “never say never.”Always expect the worst with me in the kitchen. That way there’s always room for surprise and wonderment. >>

CUISINE : it’s party time!

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 69

CUISINE out thetime! bibs CUISINE:: get it’s party

I’m not sure if watching me shop for the ingredients or trying to fluidly move my way through the kitchen is more entertaining. The grocery store and the kitchen are foreign lands to me. Ingredients were easy to locate, but does there really have to be so many different types of liquid creams. I mean, really? So, naturally, I picked up the phone and dialed Mom. As if she was standing there next to me, she pointed out that all of the creams that, indeed, for my new adventure were not only staring me in the face, but they were all next to each other too. Phew! What a relief. I grabbed my raspberries and headed for the checkout. It felt like I was running a marathon and I just passed the 10-mile marker. Too bad I still had 16.2 miles left to go. In the middle of my dither, my phone goes off. It’s Mom texting me about the ice cream. I answer and get a new message from her: a winking smiley face. I bet she was at home laughing out loud, too. Keep in mind, once I learned how to make ice cream that tasted fabulous, I was going to invite some of my friends over for a summer social event. Well, the first batch didn’t taste fabulous but it did have a taste...sort of. I mixed and mashed and churned and waited 40 minutes, just like the recipe said. OK, I’ll admit it. I forgot to buy rock salt and decided to wing it with just ice. My ice cream took way, way too long to harden, and even then it remained soupy. I tasted it. With the exception of its consistency, I’m not sure if I needed to have added a little more sugar or a little more fruit, but it tasted kind of bland.

70 Bakersfield Magazine

I was frustrated, tired, and no longer in the mood for ice cream or even my thought-up ice cream social. So I decided to walk away. Cue the sad E! True Ice Cream Maker Jason Gutierrez Hollywood Story music. Still the idea rolled around in my head. It really couldn’t be that hard right? People do it all the time. I dusted myself off and decided to try again. This time with rock salt! Like magic, my second attempt worked! I had made ice cream. I took back all the grumbles I made under my breath and enjoyed my personal reward. The only down point was the three-hour period of waiting while the ice cream hardened. d Ye Olde Topping Bar d When I walk into an ice cream parlor or a frozen yogurt shop, I like to cruise the

toppings. The selection of colors, tastes, and textures is like uncovering a hidden treasure! So, in planning my impromptu ice cream social, I decided that I, too, needed to have a showcase of toppings for all tastes! Walking down the aisle of the grocery store, I was trying to figure out what toppings should be invited to my soirée? Since my ice cream flavor was raspberry, fresh raspberries was a given. Then I added hot fudge, strawberry sauce, blueberries, chocolate sprinkles, and, of course, whipped cream. I could have piled on the toppings, no pun intended, but I decided to extend the option to my guests to bring their own

toppings. Why not, right? It’s the next best way to make everyone happy; the gathering would be BYOT—Bring Your Own Toppings. You can’t just have ice cream at a social gathering, you need a summer-inspired cocktail to chase it all down with. I had three hours to kill so I concocted drinks in my head. I made raspberry ice cream, so I should stick with the theme. Ah ha! A raspberry/champagne cocktail. There used to be a restaurant in town that made these concoctions famously! Now it was my turn. After no research at all, I went to the store to buy my potions. Yes, it would have saved me time to buy everything all at once. I know, I know. But hey, it’s my party and I’ll drive around town if I want too! The drink is really easy to prepare. Here’s how you make it:

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The Summer Sip 1 1/2 oz. Chambord • 3 oz. Champagne Splash of Club Soda The alcohol could easily be swapped out for Raspberry syrup and ginger ale for a minor-friendly concoction. I picked up some classic ice cream cones at the store, but I highly suggest you go all out and make your own. Seriously! At least give it a try. Come on! According to some reliable sources (bless the Internet) the following is a recipe for a super-simple waffle cone.

Easy-Make Waffle Cones 1 complete egg • 1 egg white 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 2 tbsp. butter (warm) 2/3 cup all-purpose flour • 1/4 tsp. salt This recipe makes eight yummy cones. With that in mind, let’s get started. You will need a waffle iron and you can find them at any retail store around town, if you don’t have one already. First you want to preheat the waffle iron. Now take the egg white, egg, and the salt and put them in a bowl. Beat them until the mix is properly blended. Then add your sugar to the mixture. Stir until you notice the egg getting light in color (about a minute). Now add the flour and mix again. You have to mix it really well so there are no lumps. When done, add the melted butter and mix some more! Now the dough is ready and waiting to be dropped onto the waffle iron. Bake it for around a minute. Then quickly remove it and role it in a cone. Hold the waffle cone like this for a while so it cools a little and keeps its shape. Use a paper towel because your cone comes out hot! Let the cones cool and soon you can introduce them to your guest of honor—the ice cream. d The Scene is Set d

Toppings laid out on the counter, cones ready for the scoops of your crafty, refreshing creation. Ice Cream Socials are more about the treats and the company so you can get by with minimal decorations. However, the ones you do use should capture a good spark of your personality. Use wild colors, prints, or stay a little more traditional and invoke an Americana theme. If you have gads of time, you can even try making it a theme party and ask that everyone dress like they’re headed to an ice cream parlor from the ‘50s...saddle shoes included! As long as friends are happy and enough scoops go around, your party is sure to be a hit. Mine was and no one had the smallest hint of the “road less traveled” to get there! n

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BAKERSFIELD’S

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Cuisine: try something new

Continued from page 68

deep-fried triangular wonton chips emanating from the

because I noticed that the new location had yet to appear on

tuna ball. It looked like the sun with rays beaming forth. The

locals’ radar screen—dinner hour did bring in some hotel

flavor was as delightful as the presentation, a sweet spiciness

guests—providing a quiet atmosphere for conversation.

that paired well with the chips.

At our server’s suggestion, I started with a Tiger

The Lunch Box is a great choice; it’s not only filling but

roll—shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, masago, cucumber,

also moderately priced. You have a choice of a two- or three-

and avocado ($12.99)—that was scrumptious. The

item plate ($8.95 or $10.95). Either choice includes steamed

spicy ground tuna topped the roll that had a shrimp tail

rice and a salad. You then fill out your order by choosing two

on either end. Scott opted for a chicken teriyaki roll that

or three of the following: chicken teriyaki, beef teriyaki, salm-

was sprinkled with sesame seeds adding to the sweet

on teriyaki, bulgogi, California roll, tuna roll, cucumber roll,

tang of the teriyaki.

spicy tuna roll, tempura combination, gyoza, and egg roll.

For my entrée, I tried the beef teriyaki and tempura

Maewoon Tang, a robust Korean inspired seafood soup is full-bodied magnificence in a bowl.

Be a part of the only magazine produced in cooperation with the City of Bakersfield’s Economic and Community Development Department and used by the City and County economic agencies in the promotion of our area to new commerce.

I chose the spicy tuna roll, bulgogi, and tempura com-

combination ($17.95). Both were excellent. The tempura,

bination. What a feast! The presentation was as attractive

like that included in my lunch, had a crisp light tempura

as the Fire Cracker; each portion had its own compartment

batter on the vegetables and shrimp. It was so good I could

in a red and black rectangular plate—with a small square

have been happy with just a plate of tempura. But then I

in the middle with wasabi and pickled ginger.

would have missed the beef teriyaki, which was delicious.

About halfway through I thought perhaps I shouldn’t

Scott tried the Toro Fusion Bowl ($9.95), one of the

have ordered the appetizer: the Lunch Box portions are

crossover dishes I mentioned: an ample serving of bulgogi,

As well, this issue is an invaluable resource to newcomers and current residents alike.

generous. The bulgogi—thinly sliced seasoned beef sirloin

quail eggs, an assortment of vegetables, and rice sizzling

strips grilled Korean style—was the star of the show.

in a stone bowl. He greatly enjoyed it.

Aimee tried Maewoon Tang, a spicy Korean-style sea-

I’m looking forward to trying the “hot rock,” heated vol-

For special marketing opportunities please contact your sales representative or call 834-4126

food soup ($15.95). While she raved about the flavor, the

canic rocks that cook your entrée –ribeye, salmon, New

presentation was dramatic, with the soup arriving in what

York strip, or shrimp and scallop—right in front of you.

appeared to be a stone bowl that had the soup sizzling

It’s one of the unique aspects of these dual restaurants that

for a few minutes after our server presented it. Plus it was

make for a delightful dining experience.

huge, plenty for a hearty appetite.

marketing@bakersfieldmagazine.net 72 Bakersfield Magazine

My dinner experience was as enjoyable as my lunch. I met my friend, Scott Allen, at the Rosedale Highway locale

Toro is open for lunch and dinner; Visa and MasterCard accepted. For reservations call (661) 663-7878 (southwest) or 324-8900 (Rosedale Highway).

Photo courtesy Hart Winery

LIFE IS A CABERNET

Once you find Temecula’s Hart Winery on the side of this hill, you realize the journey was well worth it.

hidden treasures By Mike Stepanovich

They’re the bookends; wine regions at opposite ends of the state. Temecula on the south and Yreka on the north are attracting attention for some stellar wines. But let’s face it, they’re hardly at the tip of most people’s tongues when the conversation turns to “wine country.” They should be. Temecula is better known of the two areas. Its post-Prohibition history began in the

Joe and Nancy Hart started their winery in 1974, and produce about 4,000

late 1960s when vineyards were first planted. In 1984, the Temecula Valley became a

cases a year. I’m particularly drawn to their grenache rosé, sauvignon blanc,

recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA),

viognier, and syrah. The latter three all

and today it comprises some 30 wineries.

are produced from estate fruit. Joe sees parallels between Temecula

ated northeast of the Rainbow Gap, which

and Paso Robles. Both areas “kicked off

allows cooling afternoon coastal breezes,

about the same time” in terms of post-

and southwest of the Mojave Desert, which provides a relatively dry (about 13 inches of rain a year), temperate climate. Getting there is easy: head south on

Photo courtesy baily Winery

It’s ideally suited for grape growing, situ-

Prohibition winery development. The difference is that “we’ve had a fairly unsophisticated clientèle, and haven’t had to rise to the occasion; Paso has. The focus

Interstate 15 (it’s about 3 1/2 hours from

is on Rhone varietals in Paso Robles; we’re

Bakersfield), and then east on Rancho Cali-

not yet focused in Temecula.”

fornia Road. Town abruptly ends at Butterfield Stage Road, and wine country begins.

Nearby Baily Vineyard & Winery has classic French architecture and ambiance.

Three wineries in particular merit a visit: Hart Winery, Baily Vineyard & Winery, and Shasta View Vineyards.

Recognizing that, Hart is tightening his own focus: “I want to focus more on

Mediterranean varietals,” he said, adding that he sees a bright future for both his winery and the Temecula Valley.

HART IS A RUSTIC PLACE, essentially a wooden barn with boardwalks and a

For years Hart got grenache from the Collins Vineyard in Cucamonga Valley, near

tiny tasting room. Anytime there’s a crowd, tasters must rotate outside on the

Ontario Airport. The vineyard was always under threat by developers, and at >>

boardwalk. That’s a plus, because Hart is perched on the side of a hill, with a beautiful view of the northward-stretching valley.

Cuisine: wineries on the rim

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 73

Cuisine: wineries on the rim one point the vineyard was presumed doomed, and Hart produced the“Collins Ranch Final Harvest”Grenache Rosé. Somehow the vineyards survived, and Hart produced the second annual “final harvest,” and a few more besides that. He finally stopped getting grapes from Collins Ranch, but his rosé, made from locally grown grapes, is terrific; it’s lighter than the Collins Ranch version—fruity and a wonderful accompaniment to summer fare. The great news is that it’s priced at just $14.

Mount Shasta in all its magnificence rises above Shasta Vineyards with inspiring splendor.

JUST UP THE STREET a half-mile or so is Baily Vineyard & Winery, with classic French architecture that encompasses the tasting room on one end, and Carol’s Restaurant on the other.

And the view! This is arguably the most dramatic winery

the Rogers sought advice from Oregon State University’s

Phil and Carol Baily combined their passions, his for wine, hers

view anywhere: Mount Shasta rising more than 14,000 feet

viticulture department. They got cabernet and zinfandel

for food (she’s an executive chef) in a delightful venue. They

in all its majesty right in front of you!

cuttings from wineries in southern Oregon, but they were

moved to Temecula in 1981 from San Marino, near Pasadena, planted their vineyards, and opened their winery in 1986. The tasting room is airy, and the pourers are mostly retired men who give you a generous taste in large Riedel glasses,

The Rogers just may have found another of those per-

a bit surprised at what chardonnay clone proved best.

fect spots in California to make wine: their vineyard is in

“Here, we’re high and arid, and the clone that does best is

the Shasta Valley just east of Yreka, and only about 20 miles

the old Wente clone.”

south of the Oregon border.

then swirl the wine vigorously before pushing the glass to

UC Davis got wind of what they were doing “and took a

Roger always wanted a winery. He got the bug early

great interest...we were off their radar screen in terms of vi-

visiting wineries with his father, a wine industry executive,

ticulture, so they wanted to do research,” Roger said. Shasta

Phil is a quiet guy who is delighted to talk about his win-

in the San Jose area. After military service followed by a col-

View Vineyards now includes a UCD test plot.

ery. He focuses on Bordeaux varieties, and produces some

lege degree, Roger joined the Forest Service, which brought

Gail still marvels at their life now. “I never envisioned

exquisite red wines.

him to the Klamath National Forest in Yreka. “I always had

this,” she said. “It was his dream, and I got behind it. I

you—a small touch that emphasizes Baily’s quality.

For those who got the idea that Temecula only produced

thought, how often in your life do you get to do something

white wines, Baily waves his hand dismissively. “That notion began, it was producing only white wines, and its marketing team came up with the slogan, “White wine—it’s all we make.” For some reason people got the idea that that was all you could make in Temecula.

Photos courtesy shasta Winery

started with Callaway,”he said (Hart concurs). When Callaway

that fulfills your dream.” They got lucky again when it came to finding a winemaker. Dave Hook, a New Zealander, was making wine at King Estate in Oregon. “We struck up a conversation,” Roger related, and the rest just fell into place. “We were looking for someone who we could get advice

But Temecula’s reds are fine. If you have any doubts, a taste

from, but who would embrace our philosophy,” Gail said. “So

of Baily’s Bordeaux varietals will erase it.

we’re lucky. We listen to him, but he also listens to us.”

I particularly like the cabernet and meritage. Both are

Shasta View’s chardonnay is delightful: a delicate wine,

deep crimson with a silky texture. Rich boysenberry and

with varietal nose and apple and pear nuances. On the pal-

cedar flavors lead to a long finish on the cab (currently

The old Wente grape performed the best at Shasta Vineyards.

ate, it has a light texture with the same apple/pear flavors and

available for $27 at the winery). The meritage, a blend of

the dream in the back of my head,” he said. He and Gail met

a touch of peach. It’s fresh, clean, and delicious; a splendid

cabernet sauvignon (58 percent), cabernet franc (32 per-

and married, and continued looking for the right spot to

choice for the dinner table. And at $20 it’s a deal.

cent) and merlot (10 percent) is even more complex (on

plant their vineyard.

sale for $30 at the winery).

And I love their Armonia Rossa, a blend of cabernet sau-

“We found this parcel in 1990.” It’s on gently sloping

vignon, zinfandel, syrah, and merlot. It’s an unconventional

SOME 750 MILES NORTH is a winery attracting growing

ground facing southeast so it gets the morning sun. They did

blend, to be sure, but it’s delicious. Its intense berry-cherry

attention. Shasta View Vineyards, founded in 1996 by Roger

climate and soil studies, and finally in 1995 planted their 8

flavors are accompanied by a pleasant crispness and long fin-

and Gail Rogers, has snagged a number of gold medals,

1/2-acre vineyard. “We’re the first winery in Siskiyou County

ish making this a splendid food companion ($24).

which has gotten the attention of vintners in more famous

since the 1890s.”

parts of the state. 74 Bakersfield Magazine

Because of the local knowledge-vacuum on viticulture,

Visit these wineries on the web at shastaviewvineyards.com, bailywinery.com, and thehartfamilywinery.com.

THE LUNCH BUNCH

dining for charity

By Tracie Grimes

The Lunch Bunch: Dining for Charity is a group of women who get together every other month and lunch at a different area restaurant. The goal is to discuss local nonprofit organizations and discover new ways in which we can help our community. The Lunch Bunch, made up of prominent and charitable Bakersfield women, is all about philanthropy. Each lunch, we invite the director of a local nonprofit to join us in hopes of finding out about upcoming fund-raisers, wish lists, and future goals that the Lunch Bunch can help with. Of course, the best way we can help is by spreading the word on these worthy causes. This issue, we were thrilled to welcome Pam Fiorini, the executive director of Golden Empire Gleaners to join us for a lovely lunch at The Bistro. Community Organization Spotlight: The Golden Empire Gleaners Pam was delighted to share the “goings-on” of a local organization that’s become particularly important to our community during these hard economic times. “Our monthly service totals have jumped from about 15,000 to 20,000 since January, which means we’re serving about 5,000 more people a month,” Pam noted, adding that this massive distribution effort is done with only two employees on the payroll. “We always welcome community volunteers for fund-raising, office and warehouse work, drivers, cooks,” Pam said. One of the Gleaners biggest fund-raisers, A Night with the USO, is coming up in November, and plans are well underway. “This event is held in our warehouse, which we transform into a vintage USO ‘night club’ complete with dinner, dancing, oral and silent auctions, museum displays, and authentic service vehicles,” Pam explained, adding that they expect to raise $60,000 through this event.

And though they could always use help with the USO event and distribution, Pam mentioned other ways community members can support The Golden Empire Gleaners. “Our wish list includes completing renovations to our facility such as a new roof for our warehouse, paving work in our yard, concrete replacements for a section of the warehouse floor, concrete floor repair and finish in our office building, window replacement for our office building, and basic items like copy paper and plastic tableware. Of course we’d welcome any general support donations that will help us come in on budget during this tough year,” Pam said. After the lunch, Pam shared her thoughts with me. “I was so grateful to be able to share more information about what we do at The Gleaners with women who have a heart for people and for helping in our community. I enjoyed the wealth of experience and insights from all the ladies. Each was so gracious to me. Meeting Judi McCarthy from the Kern Community Foundation which manages The Gleaners endowment fund and talking with former director of The Gleaners, Sue Benham, were enriching networking opportunities. I really appreciated the thoughtful questions and suggestions from a great group of ladies.” The Restaurant The Bistro at the Sheraton has long been one of Bakersfield’s most distinctive restaurants, yet those of us walking into the upscale eatery for the first time in a while, felt like we were walking into a new place since we hadn’t dined there since the extensive remodel. >>

dFEATURED RESTAURANT d

the Bistro

CUISINE : for a great cause

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 75

THE LUNCH BUNCH

Dining for Charity is an ensemble of local ladies who lunch at a different area restaurant six times a year. The group welcomes special guests to the table each luncheon. These guests are people who are passionately involved in local charities and nonprofits, whether they be the director or simply a long-time volunteer.

(l-r) Pam Fiorini, Ann Hansen, Mary Christenson, Patricia Loyd, Sue Benham, Jillian Fritch-Stump, Judi McCarthy, Tracie Grimes

The transformation was a sight to behold; rich wood paneling in the Vineyard Room, soothing green walls, soft lighting, beautiful artwork, and funky, modern-with-a-retroflair carpeting. The perfect setting for anything from a business merger, stylish birthday celebration, or even a romantic dinner for two. “I’d put The Bistro in the category of the ‘occasional’ restaurant for those who are looking for a four-star dining experience,” says manager Danny Williams. In the kitchen, chef Michael Kelly freshens up the California contemporary cuisine menu choices by preparing daily lunch and dinner specials such as Tequila Salmon and Ahi Tuna with Pineapple Chutney. The Food Upon recommendation from our wonderful waitress, Erin, Pat and I both ordered the Ahi Tuna Salad. Although it was a bit spicy for my taste, Pat noted, “Who could guess that food could be so pretty? If you like spicy you would love it! I don’t like spicy but I still thought it was very good.” “I had the Chile-Glazed Salmon Salad,” Judi said. “The flavors were very good—a nice combination of sweet, spicy, and salty. I love this salad...” Ann, who also had the Chile-Glazed Salmon Salad, described the dish as having “the perfect texture on a salad.” Sue enjoyed the Moroccan Chicken Salad (“it’s one of my favorite salads in town”), proclaiming it “delicious!” Pam said her Crispy Chicken Salad was “an ‘upscale’ entrée; a perfect blend of unThe Sweet Chile-Glazed Salmon Salad was a table favorite.

expected ingredients—comfort food (crispy chicken pieces) and varied fresh greens.” We all enjoyed the Appetizer Menagerie. “The artichokes were phenomenal!”Pam said, adding she was glad I declined splitting one with her, wanting one all to herself. The artichokes had been battered and fried, but remained light and crisp—with a deliciously sweet aftertaste. 76 Bakersfield Magazine

Our Special Guest: Mary Christenson joined us at the table for this classy lunch. Mary, a prominent Realtor in our area, was gifted Lunch with the Lunch Bunch from a friend who knew what a fan Mary was of our charitable group. We were delighted to have her as she is a philanthropist herself, and always looks for ways to get involved in charities in our area. What the Lunch Bunch Ladies are up to: Robin: Robin was unable to join our group at The Bistro as she was in Temecula supporting son Riley who was playing in a golf tournament (and is off to Cornell in the fall), but wanted to mention a relatively new charity she’s been working with. “I’ve been asked to sit on the board of ‘Smile for a Lifetime,’ an effort to build self esteem and change the lives of deserving students. The charity is led by local orthodontist Dr. Donald Montano who works to identify high-achieving local high school students in need of braces or dental work but can’t afford it. Dr. Montano, in cooperation with other local physicians, provides the service for free.” Judi: In August, the Women’s & Girls’ Fund of Kern County will release a “Report on the Status of Women and Girls in Kern County,” produced in partnership Dr. Janet Armentor-Cota, Assistant Professor of Sociology at CSUB, who conducted the research. “This document will help to guide our grant making and will be shared with local nonprofits and elected officials to alert all of the needs of women and girls in Kern County.” On September 24, the Kern Community Foundation will celebrate 10 years of service to Kern County, which includes approximately $3.5 million in grants since 1999. Pat: ”Our newly remodeled facility is now called Bakersfield Jet Center by Loyd’s Aviation and we are the only full-service, fixed-base operator at Meadow’s Field. We are getting great reviews on the new facility, its location, and the exceptional service we provide. We are enjoying all the planning for our daughter Kelly’s wedding. Ann [Hansen] and I introduced her cousin, Aaron Pieczonka, to my daughter and we feel so blessed that our match-making worked. The Alpha Canine Sanctuary is looking forward to the shade that will be provided by the 30 Mondale trees that were donated through BARC. Also, a recent fund raiser at the Red Brick Pizza brought in $4,500, and checks are still coming in.” Sue: ”I’m looking forward to a trip to Seattle in July and especially to our annual family time at the beach, in Del Mar, in August. At Memorial, the Children’s Medical Center Initiative is raising funds to expand pediatric services and to establish the only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in the Southern San Joaquin Valley.” Ann: The date for the Kids On The Block Training has been set for Aug. 28th. The Ford Dimension and Dream Builders are all working hard this summer on their summer project. It will be exciting to see the finished product. If you would like to find out more information about Golden Empire Gleaners, visit their website at goldenempiregleaners.com or call (661) 324-2767. Or, to learn more about the charities our Lunch Bunch supports, please call (661) 834-4126 or visit bakersfieldmagazine.net. n

Uricchio’s Trattoria

Nestled in the heart of Downtown in the historical Haberfelde Building. Steaks, chops, seafood, and classic Italian dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list, have made Uricchio’s a mainstay for over a decade. Uricchio’s San Francisco style setting is family owned and operated, and the perfect spot for a business lunch, or a romantic dining experience. After your meal save room for the fabulous desserts from LaMousse of Beverly Hills. Inquire about our Monday Prix fixe 3 Course Meal. Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Thu 5-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5-10pm. Reservations recommended, lunch reservations for large groups only. 1400 17th St. Downtown. (661)326-8870

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

The Nines Restaurant at the Marriott

Located inside the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, The Nines is a chic, trendy place to dine serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week for all your culinary desires. Come in and enjoy the delectable flavors from our Executive Chef, from our beautiful Sunday brunch complete with carving stations to our daily lunch specials including Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad for only $10. Nightly dinner specials featuring Prime Rib Tuesdays and Seafood creations on Fridays. Reservations recommended but not required. Hours are Mon-Sun 6:30am-2pm and 5-10pm. 801 Truxtun Ave. (661)323-1900

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 / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 77

The Dining Guide

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

T-Bones Ranch House

Yee-Haw! Bakersfield’s favorite steakhouse is now serving breakfast! All the flavors you love at lunch and dinner are available for early risers! For the adventurous buckaroo, the chicken fried steak will leave you very satisfied. It’s the best in Bakersfield and is served with all of your favorite sides. Or wrangle up one of our Iron Skillets, loaded with your choice of meat, eggs, and hashbrowns! And come back to enjoy the rest of our extensive menu for lunch or dinner. But be sure and try our homemade Chocolate Gravy before you leave—it’s great on our biscuits! Breakfast 6am-2pm Mon-Sun. Lunch 10:30-am-2pm Mon-Sun. Dinner hours are MonSun 4pm-close. 8020 District Blvd. TbonesRanchHouse.com (661)398-1300

Mauricio’s Grill & Cantina

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

Grandview Asian Cuisine

Take a trip to the Far East in this amazing restaurant located on the corner of Ming and Ashe. Try Grandview’s for a delicious variety of Asian cuisine and a relaxing atmosphere. Dine on some of the best Dim Sum Bakersfield has to offer while listening to the gentle splash of a waterfall. Whether you have a craving for fine Asian dining, or desire a place to unwind after work, Grandview Asian Cuisine provides the perfect place to get away. Hours: 10am-9pm daily. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 2217 Ashe Road, Bakersfield. (661)832-2288

Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks

Anxious to taste traditional Chinese cuisine? If you haven’t been to Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks yet, what are you waiting for? Since 1938, Bill Lee’s has been cooking up flavorful dishes inspired by the culinary styles of the Far East. They also boast a full service bar and several fine banquet rooms which feature antique carvings and original artifacts from the Orient: terra cotta figures from the Xian Museum, including General Li, an archer, and a full size horse. You taste only the freshest ingredients in all their dishes. Open for lunch and dinner Sun through Thu, 11am-9:30pm and Friday and Saturday, 11am-10pm, or eat at home with their fast home delivery and take out service. 1203 18th Street. billlees.com. (661)324-9441

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

Valentien Restaurant and Wine Bar

Valentien...French cuisine with California fusion. The atmosphere at Valentien is unique; both laid back and elegant. Every dining experience is different with our ever-changing menu. Valentien offers something for everyone’s palate, from seafood, poultry, beef and exotic game to vegetarian options. Showcasing seasonal fresh and local produce, we utilize the bountiful agriculture that Kern County farms are known for. As often as possible our chefs use organic ingredients. We are constantly seeking out the freshest products available. For example, we often will have our fish flown in from Hawaii. No matter the origin, we always strive for a less than 24 hour sea to plate turnaround. Valentien also serves only the highest grade beef and premium meats and poultry. We feature an extensive wine list primarily focusing on boutique and artisan wines. Call for more information about our frequent wine tastings and other upcoming events. Valentien…a dining experience like no other in Bakersfield. Hours: Lunch Tue-Fri 11:30am-2pm Dinner Tue-Sat 5-9:30pm. Wine bar open until midnight on Friday & Saturday. All major credit cards accepted. Reservations recommended but not required. 3310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160 (661)864-0397

78 Bakersfield Magazine

The Bistro

With new manager Danny Williams at the helm and a new menu, The Bistro is the place to dine in Bakersfield. Recently remodeled with L.A. style décor to match their “California fresh” cuisine, The Bistro is supporting local growers by using Alpha Produce and is proud to serve Harris Ranch beef. Try the Harris Ranch filet mignon with a rich Veal Demi Glace or for a real sweet kick, taste the Wild Sweet Orange-crusted Ahi Tuna with Citris-ginger sauce. And you don’t want to miss the Herb Cream Cheese Artichoke Heart Tempura with Honey Dijon Glaze. Come by for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or join us in the lounge for a romantic evening. Open 8-10am for breakfast, 11am-2pm for lunch, and 5-10pm for dinner. Lounge hours are 11am-11pm. 5105 California Ave. (661)323-3905

Que Pasa

Our fantastic menu is now bursting with delicious “ensaladas” for your summertime dining. Explore our menu of traditional Mexican favorites infused with fresh flavors and try the tantalizing Cabo Ahi-Tuna salad or the Red-Chile Rubbed Grilled Chicken salad, covered in a Red-Chile orange vinaigrette, queso fresco, roasted corn relish, and almonds. And nothing quenches your thirst like a classic, hand-made margarita. To ensure the “perfect margarita,” we use only the highest quality ingredients, like 100 percent agave tequilas and our special agave nectar. Valley Plaza Location, 2701 Ming Ave # 219, 832-5011. Hours: Mon-Thu 10:30am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sunday 10:30am-9pm. Marketplace Location, 9000 Ming Ave # F4, 664-1400. Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm.

Frugatti’s Italian Wood-Fired Oven

Real Italian by Real Italians! Whether dining in or al fresco on our new patio, come in and enjoy our new menu that’s bursting with flavor for lunch, dinner or just dessert. You’ll love our steaks. We use only the highest quality Certified Angus Brand® Beef. You’ll also love our chicken, seafood and pizzas cooked in our imported Italian wood-burning oven. We also offer a wide selection of pasta dishes and other Italian favorites. For dessert try our homemade New York cheesecakes or Tiramisu. Come experience our friendly atmosphere. Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9:30pm, Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 11:30am-10pm, Sunday 11:30am-9pm. All major credit cards accepted. 600 Coffee Rd., corner of Truxtun and Coffee. frugattis.com (661)836-2000

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 79

The Dining Guide

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

Hourglass Kitchen & Bar

Hourglass Kitchen & Bar offers a wide variety of choices to satisfy everyone’s tastebuds. Our popular appetizer, yellow tail tuna tartar served with avocado salsa, is just one of the many favorites. Indulge in gourmet sandwiches and salads, and seafood, pasta, and entrées straight off the grill. All steaks and hamburgers are made with Harris Ranch Beef. Located at the corner of Calloway & Brimhall. Open MonSat 11am-10pm for dining and open for late night cocktails. Also available for large parties & catering. Closed Sundays. (661)679-1977

Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe

The Dining Guide

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

Sandrini’s

Looking for a restaurant with quality food and service with a bar that has a Cheers-like atmosphere in downtown Bakersfield? Walk down our stairs and that’s what you’ll find. Come for lunch or dinner and choose from an assortment of delectable Italian and Basque dishes, all prepared in house with the freshest ingredients. Come for drinks and find an excellent wine list with an exceptional selection of more than 110 beers and 80 premium whiskeys to satisfy your palate. Live entertainment every night. Family style dinners every Sunday. Hours: Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 5-9pm, Bar Mon-Fri 11am-close, Sat-Sun 5pm-close. Reservations Accepted. All major credit cards accepted. 1918 Eye St. (661)322-8900

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

80 Bakersfield Magazine

Milt’s Coffee Shop

For 44 years, Milt’s has been a Bakersfield staple! Join us for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and you won’t be disappointed. Everything on our menu is made from scratch giving a meal at Milt’s that fresh, homemade taste you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, all our deli sandwiches are served with your choice of soup, salad, fries, potato salad, chips, fresh fruit, or cottage cheese, making the perfect lunch. And the variety doesn’t stop there. Try the Texas Chile Size—a burger loaded with chili and topped with cheese and onions. Dinner is a belt-busting affair with steaks, trout, pork loin, and honey stung fried chicken on the menu. We’ve also got fare for the calorie-conscious. “We are a happy place for hungry people.” Open seven days a week from 6am-10:30pm. 6112 Knudsen Dr. (661)399-4975

Hungry Hunter

Yes, we have the best prime rib in town, but we’re so much more than a great steakhouse. Come in for lunch and enjoy our fresh ground 1/2lb. Angus Burgers or a homemade infused salmon burger. We’ve got soups and salads as well to complement our many entrées. Our dinner menu is just as varied with Australian lobster tails and fettuccine alfredo. Our delicious steaks are hand cut to ensure the freshest steak possible, so wrap your mouth around our black & bleu ribeye, or a tender filet mignon. We offer a great wine list that is sure to pair with any meal. Locally owned and operated. Happy hour: Mon-Fri, 2-6pm, Hours: Mon-Fri, Lunch 11:30am-3pm, Dinner 3-10pm, Saturdays 4:30-10pm, Sundays 12-9pm. 3580 Rosedale Hwy. hungryhuntersteakhouse.com (661)328-0580

Café Med

For a cozy, intimate setting and fine dining with a unique atmosphere, Café Med is the place to go. Choose a selection from our extensive menu and your taste buds will surely be satisfied. Start off with an appetizer-perhaps you might try our Grilled Shrimp Cocktail or Hummus with Lamb Meat-a house specialty. Then choose from a variety of entrées including Mediterranean salads, steaks or even pasta. An excellent dish to try is our Fisherman’s Pasta-a mix of shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams & the catch of the day sautéed in a tomato, basil and mushroom cream sauce. Come by Café Med today for a delicious variety and friendly service. Open 7 days a week 11am-close. Live music on Friday & Saturday nights. Reservations accepted. Visa, MC, AE, DC. 4809 Stockdale Hwy. cafemedrestaurant.com. (661)834-4433

La Costa Mariscos

Serving the best of the best for over 15 years, La Costa Mariscos offers a wide variety of quality, freshly-prepared Mexican and seafood dishes in a cozy, unique atmosphere. We are a family-oriented restaurant with a fast and friendly attitude. Come in and enjoy our many delicious entrées made from traditional recipes. Our enchiladas are savory and delicately seasoned and our salads are crisp and light. Or, if you’re looking to entertain guests, we can bring the food to you; serve La Costa Mariscos from the comfort of your own home as we are available for catering. We’re ready to satisfy your taste buds daily from 11am-9pm. 716 21st Street. (661)322-2655

T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar

Every city and town in America has a classic restaurant. A restaurant that combines ambiance, great food, tradition and history. T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar is that restaurant for Bakersfield. It is part of the Haberfelde complex, located in the oldest building in downtown Bakersfield. T.L. Maxwell’s has an award-winning wine list that matches the traditional full menu and the creative specials that are offered for lunch and dinner. Owners Terry and Paula Maxwell are both locals. So go where the locals go (and lots of out-of-towners): T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar. Banquet facility available. Most major credit cards accepted. Hours: Tue-Fri 11:30am-1:30pm and 5:30-8:30pm, Saturday 5:30-9:30pm. Closed Sun-Mon. 1421 17th Place (between 17th and 18th streets) on the east side of Chester. (661)323-6889

Bon appétit Bakersfield Magazine Dining Guide

834-4126 www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 81

GREAT

GETAWAYS

‘‘Staycations ’’

Take your family a million miles away on California’s coast

ith budgets continuing to tighten more and more, families are looking for cost-effective ways to save money while creating the feeling of a traditional vacation. In fact, the travel industry has coined a phrase for this type of travel known as “Staycations.” Bakersfield residents prosper from this new phenomenon due to our close proximity to so many California hotspots. One such hidden treasure lies within the 8.5 miles of pristine beaches at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort located in Huntington Beach. The resort, which recently completed a $10 million renovation, boasts a number of amenities and activities not commonly found at other southern California resorts. The resort is very kid-friendly and offers complimentary activities including face

Hilton’s Waterfront Beach Resort offers laid-back attitude with sophistication and luxury. painting, balloon art, and story-telling. Before heading across the street to the beach, be sure to stop by the Pool Hut where you can check out beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, and even sand pails and shovels.

photos courtesy hilton waterfront beach resort

Adding to the resort’s atmosphere is a Calypso band which plays on the weekends. Dining options at the Waterfront Resort’s Shades restaurant offers market-fresh California cuisine with coastal views. Executive Chef Jeff Littlefield, who is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America believes in using the freshest ingredients from local farmers’ markets, and makes good use of his own herb garden located in the patiodining area of the restaurant. There’s no limit to the range of beach activities offered through the resort thanks to its relationship with Toes on the Nose waterfront activity center. Hotel staff are happy to arrange these items for you. Not only will they set you up with a bicycle ride along the beach path, they offer cabana rentals complete with beach butler service to cater to your every need. The private cabana includes lounge chairs, beach towel service, chilled drinks, and body mist spray to keep you cool. If you have children, it is certainly worth the additional cost of not having to find somewhere or stand in line to get something to eat or drink. The more adventuresome can partake in the available surf and paddle board lessons or kayak rentals. Continued on page 97 >>

The gorgeous ocean views from the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort will have you anxious to explore the surrounding area!

82 Bakersfield Magazine

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Partners Community

Bakersfield has stood by their city magazine since our very beginning, and Bakersfield Magazine certainly appreciates the acceptance weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re continuing to have from our always growing readership. We love being your magazine, and the opportunities we have had in partnering with so many charitable endeavors. It is in appreciation of our great city, that we have donated the following section to highlight a partial list of fund-raising events we are so proud to be a part of.

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This sparkling event was well-attended.

event,” Harlan said of the first Chefs event, “and I was extremely excited and willing to participate. “The Chefs event was the first of its kind here and I saw the potential it had to become a great annual event. I saw the need for our community to really embrace the March of Dimes. I truly wanted to create some enthusiasm for the organization here in Kern County.” So she emceed and, just like everyone in attendance, had a great time. And the event worked its magic—Harlan got the bug. After the event was over, she said she called the March of Dimes California office in San Francisco and volunteered— for anything! “I told them no matter what it is, I want to be involved...and I want to make 2009’s event spectacular.” That means, once again, lending her talents to both the committee and the night of the event itself as emcee. “Nonprofits take a huge hit when the economy is down, and we see that today, especially in the media. There are so many organizations begging for help and you want to help them all. The best way to help is to just buy a ticket and donate your time to go to the event. You get to help out a good cause and have a wonderful >>

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ost of us are familiar with the amazing work the March of Dimes does on a daily basis to help prevent premature births and ensure that every baby is born healthy and happy. It’s easy to be enthusiastic about their mission, too! Especially when supporting their mission means dining on some of Bakersfield’s finest cuisine, sampling wonderful wines, and bidding on superb auction items from generous local businesses. The March of Dimes is back with their Signature Chefs Auction... Heralded as one of the premier events to attend last year, the first-ever Chefs event in our area created quite the buzz among our philanthropic community. It wasn’t a new event for the March of Dimes, but it was a new event for Bakersfield, one that was embraced by the multitudes of people who love what the March of Dimes stands for. One of those people was KGET’s Katie Harlan. As news anchor for Channel 17’s news at sunrise and at noon, Katie has been involved with a number of charitable organizations around town and makes it a point to support those she feels need special attention getting a foothold here in our community. “Initially I was asked to emcee the

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Buy a teddy, get a key, win a prize!

Petroleum Club Chef Robert Alimirzaie.

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night full of great food, drinks, and community. It’s such an easy way to help.” That is a sentiment shared by others in our community...and others also involved with the March of Dimes. “The March of Dimes has done such an amazing job of supporting healthcare not only in our community but around the world,” explained Jarrod McNaughton, associate vice president of San Joaquin Community Hospital. The hospital has returned this year as the presenting sponsor, something McNaughton said they are thrilled to do. “The event last year was phenomenal. It was something different for our community and it was great to see so many people and businesses come together for a fantastic cause. As a matter of fact, the hospital is currently utilizing the resources the March of Dimes offers for families in our area dealing with premature birth.”Additionally, the March of Dimes provides information on what to expect before, during, and after birth—because their goal is to make sure all babies are born healthy. “We definitely wanted to support the organization, but specifically this event. The March of Dimes is right in line with San Joaquin Community Hospital’s mission to fill the community’s needs and keep helpful programs available to those who need them.” But that’s not all McNaughton is thinking about. “Admittedly, I’m more curious than anything about what the chefs will be serving this year. It’s a great showcase for local chefs and a very, very worthy cause.” With his seafood cones a complete hit at last years’ event, Robert Alimirzaie, executive chef for the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield, is not only thrilled to be the lead chef for this year’s event, he has been anxiously working on topping those splendid delicacies from 2008. “You want to make it tasteful and I always emphasize creativity. But, like I always tell my chefs, ‘don’t try to be better looking than the bride.’ Make sure your creations don’t overshadow the point of the event. And this is all about babies.” Alimirzaie feels that the March of Dimes has a universal message because everyone could potentially be affected by premature birth or birth defects. That’s why he chose to get involved.

With so much to do, so many dishes to try, and so many chefs to meet, time flew by.

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for babies in our area. Like last year, the 2009 Signature Chefs Auction will be held in the luxurious Marriott Hotel at the Convention Center. Eric Roiko, the Marriott’s general manager, once again donated the space for this elegant event to commence. Not only that, but their chefs are getting in on the action, providing a sumptuous dessert at the end of the evening. The sophisticated ambiance and the modern décor really complement the event and so naturally, the >>

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give their time and their support. It almost makes you feel embarrassed if you don’t get involved.” That may be, and while Alimirzaie won’t give away any secrets about what dish he’s planning on preparing this year, he did admit that he and his fellow chefs have been talking for the past six months about what they’ll be cooking. “It’s got to wow them!” Once again, chefs, vintners, and caring organizations are showing their support

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“We all ask for the community to do things for us, but it’s important that when we are fortunate enough to give back, we do things for the good of our community. Having that giving hand will bless the community for years to come.” Having moved here only recently, Alimirzaie said, “the Bakersfield community has had a huge effect on me. We [the Petroleum Club] have been involved in a number of charities, and I get to see the best of our city. People are so willing to

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October 10, 2009 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Moorea Banquet Centre A strolling dinner of delectable delights

Wine tasting courtesy of local and Central Coast favorites Kern County’s most exciting silent and live auction

And, of course, artwork from the stars of the evening the children of the Boys & Girls Club.

“KIDZART” Sponsored by The Pelletier Foundation |

For more information or to reserve tickets:

661-325-3730

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March of Dimes is absolutely thrilled to be able to hold it there for the second time. And the list of chefs is continuing to grow. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an event that showcases not only the best food in Bakersfield, but the best of our community in general. So many local restaurants, businesses, and supporters are joining in on the fun. And you should, too. This is a night not to be missed. While the food, wine, and auction items are second to none, the real reason to turn up is to support an organization that is continually giving back to us. Originally founded as a nonprofit to find a cure for polio, the March of Dimes changed mis-

Ambassador Mom Heidi Carter-Escudero samples the best of Bakersfield.

sions after a vaccine was successfully created. They have since dedicated their time and efforts to provide research to hospitals, advocacy to families, and support to the tiniest members of our communities: babies. So itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to support the March of Dimes. The Signature Chefs Auction is taking place on October 15, 2009. You can call (661) 369-1181 for more information on the event or to inquire about how your business can get involved...even if it just means attending the event, sampling some food, and donating your time to help the March of Dimes reach their goal of ensuring every baby is born healthy. v 90 Bakersfield Magazine

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Is Filthy Grout Making You Crazy? Restorative cleaning is a very economical way to rejuvenate ugly old tile and remove years of dirt, grime & build-up. Dramatic results can usually be achieved in one day for less than 10% of replacement.

BEFORE

AFTER

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green

Help save the environment and your money too!

GOING

GREEN

The Most Thorough Cleaning Ever Ah, mother nature. How we love thee. But Or IT’S FREE some of us are guilty of loving thee only when it’s convenient for MARBLE FLOORING...

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Call Ken Today For A No Hassle, No Obligation Inspection!

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NG SHI I L PO Y NE EPOX O T •S NG• TE AFTER LER SEALI NCRE A E T S ITE CO S ROU GRAN ORS• ATING G NT • FLO CO CK ANE ALING AGE IN & OL DE ISHES M PER & SE GAR STA PO FIN

Are you doing your part to go green?

us. And we know it’s true. Don’t worry though—those of us who find it just a bit difficult to get started; those who are just a bit hesitant to jump on the green wagon are not alone. Making the switch to a greener lifestyle seems like it could be a big challenge. But really, little adjustments here and there can help out immensely. The important thing is that you’re trying and whether the change you make is small or big, every little bit helps. OK, you say. But where to start exactly? You’re ready to help; your green gloves are on. Only you’re faced with a mountain (of recyclables!) in front of you. There are hundreds of lists, tips, and to-dos on every green website you visit; every brochure you read. Plenty of suggestions for making your life a little more environmentally-friendly. Of course, there is also a great number of sites out there with recommendations for what you should not do! Giant no-no lists detailing things you might currently be doing that waste our planet’s resources. Those are no fun to read! But remember, you have to start somewhere and that somewhere is usually at the bottom of the list, so don’t be upset if you can’t immediately convert your home to run on solar power.

So how do you get going without breaking the bank and your back?

ntroducing our new “Green Pages,” dedicated to keeping our readers informed about going green with timely articles and advertiser products and services to make it easy.

Please contact your sales representative or call: 834-4126 94 Bakersfield Magazine

Since going green doesn’t have to put you in the red, there are quite a few things you can fix around your own home that can help. One of the biggest challenges we need to overcome is our overuse of water. Nowhere is that more important than in Bakersfield and the agriculturally-driven counties of the Central Valley. Oftentimes, it’s not the running of the dishwasher or the watering of our lawns that depletes our aquatic resources, but the unconscious habits we have when it comes to water usage. Think about a time when your favorite shirt was dirty. You wanted to wear it, so you scrounged around for a few odds and ends that weren’t truly dirty so you could justify washing it. However, by washing only full loads, you can save anywhere from 15 to 50

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SAVING

IS GOOD FOR

EVERYONE

gallons of water per load. And think of all the clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in a while. Bring some new life to your old clothes while that current favorite is waiting for a full load. You can also save water by remembering to turn the faucet off while you brush your teeth. Don’t let that water run while you make faces in the mirror...you could be wasting three gallons a day! Imagine if everyone did that while they brushed! Another simple technique is to shorten your showers by one or two minutes in the morning. It might not seem like much, but it will have an effect...and overtime it will decrease your water bill and your heating bill, too. So save your American Idol auditions for when you get out of the shower. Even though summer is coming to an end, the backyard gettogethers are not. And we all want a clean patio and sidewalk. But instead of using a hose to wash the dirt away, try a good

Save three gallons: Turn the faucet off while you brush your teeth. push broom. Not only will you get the same results, but you’ll probably even get in a little workout. Those tips (courtesy of globalgreen.org) may not seem like much, but when you’re faced with the facts, they really add up. And you’re not just conserving water, either, you’re also doing your part to make the world a greener place. Plus, if you share your tips with friends, you’re helping out that much more. A greener planet is something that everyone will benefit from. But as you know, it’s all about implementation. You might know tons of ways to go green and save the earth; you’ve got the facts. The Worldwatch Institute (worldwatch.org) came up with some ways to go green that are easy on our fast-paced lifestyles. They are perfect for Bakersfield. To save on heating and cooling costs, set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer. It might not seem like that big of a transition, but the less your heating and air conditioning unit has to work, the more energy is saved. Another way to save energy is by unplugging PHOTOS©istockphoto.com/appleuzr/hidesy

Continued on page 99 >>

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Rahul Sharma, M.D.

The Womens Care Center

Obstetrics & Gynecology

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Obstetrics Gynecology Infertility Urinary Incontinence Surgery Weight Loss Menopausal & Alternative Health On Site 3-D & 4-D Ultrasound

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Arun Softa, M.D. Internal Medicine

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Viral Mehta, MD Supratim Banerjee, MD Nasser Khan, MD Jared M. Salvo, DO Taya Thayapran, MD Atul Aggarwal, MD

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(l-r) Dr. Nasser Khan, Dr. Viral Mehta, Dr. Jared M. Salvo, Dr. Supratim Banerjee, Dr. Atul Aggarwal

It’s never too soon or too late to take steps to protect your heart. 96 Bakersfield Magazine 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 ISING SE C T I O N

Great Getaways

Continued from page 82

ICE CREAM SOCIAL & OPEN HOUSE

Come & explore the programs and services offered to the Blind and Visually Impaired community of Kern County

September 18th • 7-9pm 1124 Baker Street 322-5234

(661)589-BABY

Free

3D/4D Ultrasound Studio Maternity Boutique • Prenatal Massage PreMadonna Photography Conveniently Located at the

NORTHWEST PROMENADE 9160 Rosedale Hwy., Ste. 200 babysightings.com

For a more youthful you, visit

Advanced Spinal Health, LLC

Steven Salyers, DC • Gregory Heyart, DC Kristal Shropshire, DC

Want an extra special way to bring your day at the beach to an end? Be sure to reserve a S’mores on the Beach package, which includes firewood, beach blanket, beverages, and all the fixings for traditional S’mores as you watch the sun set on the Pacific Ocean. Worried about what to do with your beloved canines while traveling? The resort is dog-friendly and is located just a short walk distance from Huntington’s famous dog beach. Bring your four-legged family members to romp, dig, and play surfside. The resort even has an “It’s A Wonderful Dog’s Life” package which will make any canine feel like a VIP. Huntington Beach offers a combination of laid back attitude and sophistication which has earned it the reputation of Surf City, USA. Getting around is half the fun thanks to a ride on the OC Cruiser, a woody-style bus complete with surf music playing and a bus driver who is more photo courtesy hilton waterfront beach resort

• Oxygen Facial Treatments • Bio-Synthesis™ Light activated rejuvenation system • Anti-aging treatments • Microdermabrasion • Cellulite Treatment • Scar Therapy • Airbrush Tanning

Gift Certificates Available

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Dining is top-notch at this beach-front Hilton, where elegance and California cuisine combine.

1001 Tower Way, Suite 130

Medical Associates Gregory A. Stainer, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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than willing to share the history of the area. The downtown area offers a variety of dining experiences with many kinds of cuisines, price levels, and where varying ambiances await you. Shopping includes several trendy surf shops, clubs, and live music. Last but not least, a trip to Huntington Beach wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the International Surf Museum. General Manager J.D. Shafer and his staff go out of their way to make every guest feel at home, yet with the extensive amenities offered, you’ll feel as though you are a million miles away. If you’d like to throw your cares away and stay at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort, visit hilton.com, stop by 21100 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA, or call (714) 845-8000. v

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 97

Bakersfield Optical

THE

G A L L E R Y

SAN JOAQUIN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Home Decor • Trapp Candles • Jewelry Mud Pie Baby Items • Perfume

Jack McGee

Learn to Make Windows, Gifts & Jewelry

Stained Glass • Bead Making Copper Foil • Fusing • Jewelry

State Licensed Dispensing Optician

Switch Flops Open Monday-Thursday 8:30-5:30, Friday 8:30-1:00

322-3937

3100 19th St., Suite 100 Corner 19th & Oak

San Joaquin Community Hospital 2615 Chester Ave. • 395-3000

Traditional Chinese Foot Massage

China Atlas Massage Hair Stylists, Manicurists, Massage Therapist Handbags and Accessories Available

Hair Cuts • Highlighting • Perms Coloring • Up-Dos • Waxing Products Available:

Keune, Joico, Paul Mitchell, Sexy Hair Concepts

Makeup Artist “Daniella” Walk-ins Welcome

(661) 324.4247 5428 California Ave.

Grand Opening Special One Hour Foot Massage Includes Neck, Shoulder, Arm and Hand Massage $

Ramona owner

1110 Calloway 1524 24th Street Drive #200 661-869-1518 661-587-9168

Available exclusively at:

9000 Ming Avenue, Suite H-5 • 98 Bakersfield Magazine

661-665-0411

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pages

Continued from page 95

not using it?

FLIP IT

Sugardaddy’s 5512 Stockdale Hwy.

325-8300

V.I.P. Grooming Pet Spa & Boutique Since 1996

All Breed Dog & Cat Custom Grooming

3015 F Street

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For The Birds... & More Specializing in Locally Hatched, Hand-fed & Tame Birds

NAMED "BEST SPECIALTY STORE IN THE U.S." By Pet Product News

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appliances when you’re not using them. This is a great way to cut down on “phantom” or “vampire” energy. Or you can wash your clothes in cool or cold water. Close to 85 percent of the energy used to machinewash clothing goes into heating the water! A big tip is to plant drought-tolerant, native plants in your garden. Many of the naturally-growing plants in our area need less water than the exotic ones we want to plant. These are just some of the ways you can help. You could also try us-

Try cold: 85% of the energy used to wash your clothes goes into heating water.

ing a water filter to purify tap water instead of purchasing water bottles, which generate large amounts of container waste in landfills, or buy in bulk to cut down on packaging waste. Even recycle your old computers, cell phones, and monitors. E-waste contains mercury and other toxics and is a growing environmental problem. Start by getting to know what energy-saving techniques work best with your current lifestyle. You’ll soon find that green living isn’t as hard as you think it might be and you’ll be ready to find other ways to save money while you’re saving our planet.

WhiteForestNursery.com

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Food, Toys, New & Used Cages Pick-up & Delivery Available Mobile Bird Grooming Dog & Cat Grooming

661-366-6291

300 Morning Drive Bakersfield, CA

661-366-3200

Call for FREE ESTIMATES

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Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Parish

124 Columbus Street

Parish: Voice Mail: Youth Ministry: Religious Education: RCIA: School: Pre-school 323-9906

323-3108 716-1002 327-0712 322-7200 716-1005 327-7741

Monsignor Michael R. Braun

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church

First Assembly of God

A newly established Catholic parish in Northwest Bakersfield. Masses are being held at Frontier High School Allen Rd. & Kratzmeyer Rd. g Sundays g 8:45am & 10:30am All Are Welcome!

Sunday Services: 8:15am, 10:45am and 5:30pm. Sunday School: 9:45am – All Ages Wed. Night: Family Dinner 5:306:30pm. Classes for all ages 7pm.

661.327.8446

Parish office: 661-587-3626 Pastor: Fr. Perry Kavookjian 12803 Montbatten Place

4901 California Ave.

www.bakersfieldfirst.com

Part of the Foursquare Family SUNDAY SERVICES: Worship Service 8:30am & 10:30am

Pastors Jerry & Sandy Ruff

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PARISH CHURCH

4101 Patton Way • 431-6229

Religious Schools & Worship Services Directory

Masses - Saturday Vigil 5:00 PM Sunday - 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 5:30 P M Every Weekday - 6:30 AM Reconciliation- Saturday 4:00 PM

Msgr. Craig F. Harrison, Pastor Rev. Kris Sorensen, Associate Rev. Ralph Belluomini, Hospitals Fr. Denis Ssekannyo, Visiting

Mass Schedule Saturday 8:00 a.m. (Honoring Mary) 5:00 p.m. (Vigil-English) 7:30 p.m. (Vietnamese) Sunday 6:30 a.m. NEW TIME (English) 8:00 a.m. NEW TIME (Family) 10:00 a.m. (Family), 11:30 a.m. (Latin) 5:00 p.m. (Spanish), 7:00 p.m. (English)

bakersfieldnbc .org

Stockdale Christian School • Preschool through 8th Grade • Credentialed Faculty • Science and Computer Labs • Special Education • Athletic and Music Programs • Independent Study Programs • Extended Daycare

4901 California Avenue (661) 327-3927 Educating For Eternity

100 Bakersfield Magazine

900 H Street (1 block south of California Avenue) 661-327-4734 – FAX 661-377-0363

PARISH SCHOOL CELEBRATING OUR 100TH YEAR 1910 to 2010

2516 Palm Street – 661-327-9266 Preschool – 8th Grade Cindy Meek, Principal If you are an alumni of St. Francis School please contact us for Centennial Celebration Activities

Ladies and Gents

everafters...

BRIDAL

Artisan Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Willet (Marcie Rodrigues) June 6th, 2009

p Saint Francis Church

124 Oak Street Bakersfield, CA (661)325-7911 ladiesandgentsbridal.com

Linda Hamilton Photography

Mr. & Mrs. John Gameros (Sara Hensley) May 9th, 2009

p Camp Nelson

Salas Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Albert Rodriguez (Erica Garcia) June 27th, 2009

p San Clemente Mission Parish

CJ Stiles Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Corum (Jeanie Howard) June 18th, 2009

p Private Residence Courtesy of Debbie Williams

Mr. & Mrs. Randy Paul Brown (Julie Hankins) May 30th, 2009

p Valley Baptist Church

Jessica Frey Photography

Desi Vega Photography

Mr. & Mrs. Rafael Moreno (Yolanda Perez) May 23rd, 2009

p Saint Joseph Church

Mr. & Mrs. Colby Earl (Julie Heitzman) June 21st, 2009

p The Tenaya Lodge

everafters on the web

View more weddings online Brides! Submit your wedding at:

E-mail your wedding photography and information to: comments@bakersfieldmagazine.net

comments@BakersfieldMagazine.net

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Singles 2009 101

~Kern’s Basque Tradition since 1945 ~ NEVER FROZEN, THEN BAKED, OR TRUCKED LONG DISTANCES. FIND US IN YOUR FAVORITE GROCERY STORE OR DELI TODAY!

BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

Party

CHATTER

For more photos from these parties visit bakersfieldmagazine.net

Darci Reed

Bryan Williams

Julian Weeler, Jordin Martinez

Jason Gutierrez, Eva Ramirez, Kristin Weirather

Aera Burn Center Opening

717 East 21st St. 322-7159

EAGLESON BODY WORKS, INC.

Excited Bakersfieldians gathered for the grand opening of our city’s first and only burn center! Along with sweet treats, savory appetizers, and live music, guests were awed by the new facility, dubbed The Aera Clinic at the Grossman Burn Center. Located on the San Joaquin Community Hospital campus, this burn center is a wonderful resource for our entire community.

Rebecca & Peter Grossman

QUALITY WORK • REASONABLE RATES SINCE 1950

1516 25th Street Bakersfield, CA, 93301

Michael Crum

Lisa Wilson

Tatum & Tyler Hartley

Lani Arboleda, Allanis, Marcus, and Allan Capote

Steven Freeland

Katie Delmore

Bob Beehler

Anthony Castillo, Calvin Noe, Shanai Biley

Beth Browder

Jimmy Sanders

661 323-7902

Sunday: • 10:30 am Tuesday: • 7:00 pm

John & Brandon Cobe, Breanne & Jackie Freeborn, John Hanson, Alicia Lockhart, Rick Morrison

Co-Pastor: Senior Pastor: Duane Meadors Ron Roberson 912 New Stine Rd. (661)836-0272 www.HGCBakersfield.com Stay at Home

Fred Schell, Lisa Frazier

Aaron & William Gallegos, Melissa & Chris Layshot

Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest Barbecue

Let Continuum help Senior Care Management

Get a Plan of Care

(661) 861-8628 Care Coordination • Advocacy Financial • Legal • Medical • Serving Bakersfield since 1995 Will Payne, West Miller

Sherise Shaw, Brittney Papino

102 Bakersfield Magazine

Eric Tobin

This mouth-watering 2-day event, held at Stramler Park, was a total hit! Aside from getting to sample some of the best barbecue in town, live entertainment and plenty of family-friendly activities kept folks busy, including exciting concerts and great games for the kids. All proceeds from the event benefit our local Children’s Miracle Network.

Nichole Popplewell

Chris Papino

Fred Aguirre

Debi Aguirre

BAKERSFIELD MAGAZINE

Party

CHATTER

28 Years

Experience

For more photos from these parties visit bakersfieldmagazine.net

Western Kitchen Catering For All Special Occasions We Will Take Care Of You

Andy & Janet McCrea

Bill Briggs

p p Also

TriTip Sandwich, Chips & Drink–$5 Everyday Deep Pit–Tue • Ribs–Fri & Sat

Pam McCarthy, Amber Lawrence, Terry McCormick, Roberta Gafford

David Lyman Celebration

In honor of receiving his Ph.D. in politics and policy, City of Bakersfield Economic and Community Development planner David Lyman celebrated in style at Coconut Joe’s! A better luau you couldn’t find as friends and well-wishers gathered to enjoy delicious island cuisine, cabana music, and lively conversation while they congratulated Mr. Lyman on his achievement.

Barbara Moore, Shirley Driggs

Jill Thayer, Marjory Lyman

Carol & Howard Wines

Loni & Don Cohen

Carol & Sam Lingrosso

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401 Chester Ave. 323-2169

Hayward & Tina Cox

Clay Farr, Estuardo Escobar

David Lyman, Steven Daniels, BJ Moore, Mark Evans

YEARS $ FOR ONLY

Quincy Sloan, Frank Molina, Jason Lawson, Kyle Coles

Marie Rodriguez, Kathryn Shaffer, Judy B. Richardson, Neil Sawyer

Ronald McDonald House Opening

Charitable folks eagerly gathered at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital for the grand opening of our very own Ronald McDonald House. After an appearance by Ronald himself, and a sampling of tasty treats, those present were given a tour of the house, which will provide families of sick children a place to stay during hospital stays. This is good news for our community.

Christopher Smith, , Jordin Martinez, Savanah Cano, Destiny Stancil, Michayla Paggi, Charlotte Smith

Amy Smith

Sean Collins

Ana Reyna, Alison Barrera

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Michael & Cody Hart

Scarlett Sabin, Ronald McDonald

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Patricia Henson

Pam Huber, Michelle Willow

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12 EXCITING ISSUES TO ENJOY!

Brandon Smith

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For more photos from these parties visit bakersfieldmagazine.net All around Junior Youth World Champion & High Point English Horse 18 & under at the Pinto World Show, Tulsa, Ok, June 2009, riding “Flirtin’ with Reality.”

Jennifer Wesson

Ilea Jackson, Anne Langshaw

Nick Cherney, Carlos Chavez

Ronda Murdoch

Caroline Thompson

Wine Fest

Great food, fun people, and an amazing wine selection! What else can you ask for? This year’s Wine Fest at the Kern County Museum featured a selection from over 18 California wineries! Live music set the beat as guests mingled under the stars, tasted great food, and bid on wonderful silent auction items. Proceeds benefit the museum’s future projects.

Veronika Michael Riaboukha Crum

Pat Buis, Lewis Marquez

Valerie Black, Kimberly Graham

Heather Skelley, Paul Bertrand, Justin & Tracy Hill

Kaitlin competed in 15 events, alongside 6,000 entries over 12 days. She was also the 2008 California State All Around Champion in the Novice youth 18 and under.

The Nicholson/Tifft Family

Andrea Venegaz

Nicole Sizemore, Chris Forrest

Lauren Thomas, Don Martin

Ben & Diana Christian

Dave & Shelly Howlett

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104 Bakersfield Magazine

Bruce Jay, Gene Voiland, Bob Stine

Dean Brown, Ellen Elliott, Kristin Hagan

Leslie Golich, Jan Bans, Carla Musser

KEDC Dinner

Melinda Brown, Michael Olague

Staff and investors of the Kern Economic and Development Corporation celebrated a year of hard work at the Hacienda at Tejon Ranch. The lavish garden party and a delicious meal were the perfect way for the Kern EDC to share their successes over the past year, and also to thank over 200 investors who made economic development possible in Kern.

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Greg & Judy Canard

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Wayne Kress, Keith Brice, David James

Jeff Flores, Mike & Alice Abril, Jeff Green

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Jeff Roland

Phil & Kris McLaughlin, Vicki & Mike Burger

Kristin Leavitt & Jeff Hayward

Margaritaville

Held at the Hoppel House, CASA of Kern County’s second annual “Wastin’ Away Again in Margaritaville” proved to be a success for the nonprofit... as well as a deliciously cool evening for guests. There was never a dull moment—folks were eating, imbibing, dancing, and donating. All the funds raised will go toward helping the children CASA supports.

Renee Goodwin, Sharon Pierce, Jan Drew, Jenny Vaughan

Ron & Shelly Fraze

Teri Jones

Mona & Richard Wilson

Ben & Lisa Hanson, Eva & Stephen Burke

Jim & Tammy Gay

Weddings • Birthdays

C.C.Rider Productions Paula & Gary Williams

Clement Johnson

Miriam Cortez

Masterful Vocal Impersonations of

Diane & Jens Jensen

Popular Musicians such as: Frank Sinatra • Dwight Yoakam Elvis Presley • Merle Haggard and many more. Steve Long 661.805.7384 Retirement • Special Events

Michelle Gagner

Becky Sheldon

Daryl Curtis

Kari Sturgeon

Katie Turner, Michele Parmley

ASPIRAnet Murder Mystery

Rich & Stella Greenhaldt

Linda & George Hightower

Centered around a dastardly murder, this interactive party was to die for! Guests arrived—already in costume—and waited for the plot to unfold. But not before they sampled tasty hors d’oeuvres, sipped great wine, and mingled with other “celebrities.” The event, which included a silent auction, was presented by ASPIRAnet, a nonprofit benefiting children in foster care.

Brian & Kathrine Parnell

Jennifer Curtis

Jana Davis

www.bakersfieldmagazine.net / Sizzlin’ Singles 2009 105

bakersfield’s sound

Bakersfield’s short-lived natatorium was a modern marvel back in the day.

Photo courtesy CHRIS BREWER

the Crystal bath

oughly six months—that was all the time it took to build Bakersfield’s first natatorium, the Crystal Bath. It was heralded as a “modern natatorium,” which, to us, sounds like a contradiction in terms. How could such an archaic word be modern? In January of 1910, Joe Vlasnik and his sons, Louie and Joe, announced they would be constructing a bath house for all of Bakersfield to enjoy. It would be state-of-the-art (as advanced as it could get in 1910) and would be located on east 19th Street on a 150 by 200-foot area of land Vlasnik purchased from Ben Brundage. Yes, that Brundage. Vlasnik claimed it would be built in time for summer. And though there was some controversy over water purity, Vlasnik kept his part of the deal and in early June, the Crystal Bath was nearly ready to open. Only the electric lighting system needed to be installed. True to form, 700 bathing suits with caps and stockings arrived ready for the dipping season. A balcony overlooking the water had been constructed for leisure...and ice cream eating. Once the 200 incandescent bulbs were in place, the Crystal Bath was in business. It was a wonderful summer for bathers, though swimming was cut short on September 4, 1910, a mere three months after the building was opened, when an arsonist allegedly used coal oil to burn it to the ground. While the culprit was never caught, and the Crystal Bath never rebuilt, those who flocked to this historic natatorium that summer enjoyed a brief respite from the summer sun.

the story of bakersfield is all around us, you just have to look — and listen. 106 Bakersfield Magazine

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