A rising star
Kern native Liberty Roche shares musical journey
The future is bright
Local leaders find ways to better community
Inner wellness What's in your at-home spa kit?
January 2021
TOP DOCS Meet your local health care pros
Dr. Richard Casteen, implantologist and owner of Capital Dental Group
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Leaders in safety
At Adventist Health Bakersfield, we are safe, open and ready for you. Now, more than ever, we all want the best care possible. In Kern County, we are the only hospital to receive an A for safety seven times in a row from The Leapfrog Group. We continue to earn straight A’s because our surgeons, nurses and caregivers uphold the highest quality standards, always with our patients’ well-being in mind. This award means we lead the way in safety, you are safe in our care and lives are being saved.
EDITOR’S
NOTE
Hello, 2021!
» HELLO, 2021! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW SPECIALTY PUBLICATIONS EDITOR
Ema Sasic PUBLISHER Cliff Chandler EXECUTIVE EDITOR Christine Peterson SPECIALTY PUBLICATIONS DESIGNER
Julie Mana-ay Perez PHOTOGRAPHY Adriana Alvarez Nick Ellis Alex Horvath Lori Ovanessian Julie Mana-ay Perez Ema Sasic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jess Druey Anna Marie Frank Nina Ha Jessica Jones Lisa Kimble Lyle W. Norton Julie Plata
LONG WE’VE WAITED TO WELCOME YOU WITH OPEN ARMS. AFTER THE YEAR WE JUST HAD, YOU’RE THE BEST THING THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO US. Now, I don’t want to put a whole lot of pressure on you already, but all of us are politely asking that you treat us a little better than 2020 did. That means no new pandemics or terrifying/stressful months. Instead, this year needs to be all about positivity and happy moments. Reward us every once in a while for being efficient employees, sweet neighbors and caring family members. It would be naive of me to think that it’ll all go smoothly, so if sad things have to happen every once in a while, I’m sure we can forgive you, but nothing too crazy, OK? If only it were that easy to manifest the year of our dreams. I’m sure most of us thought 2020 and the start of a new decade would mean that we would see the best the world has to offer and that we planned out lavish trips, experiences and events to attend. Instead we got to see some of the hardest moments possible for us all. Thankfully we still have nine years to come out on top and show 2020 that it can’t stop us. As we head into 2021, first and foremost, I’m so thankful that my family and I have remained healthy and in good spirits this past year. We’ve all endured challenges of our own, but at the end of the day we made it through and still have each other by our sides. I wish the same for all of you. The start of this new year will likely look very similar to the end of last year — more mask wearing, social distancing and various regulations. But I’m hopeful that changes are coming. We have news about a promising
vaccine, which is so much more than we had several months ago. We’ve also learned a lot over the past nine months regarding how COVID-19 spreads and the best ways to take care of ourselves. Knowledge is power, and in this instance, our best tool to fight this thing once and for all. I don’t have many crazy plans for this year, but I’m hoping to safely spend as much time as I can with my loved ones and continue to explore this great state and maybe even visit some new places. Of course, this is all up in the air at the moment, but you’ve got to let a girl dream! I usually don’t set any resolutions for myself because, who am I kidding, I’m not going to follow them. Instead, I reflect on the past year and determine what habits I want to carry over and what I’ve learned that I think will help me grow. 2020 taught me to be patient, understanding and kind to the people around me because you know never what they’re going through. It also taught me to slow down and think about the things and people who are most important to me. Material items don’t matter in the end; it’s the people who make life worth going through the ups and downs. I guess the rest is up to you, 2021, but I’m coming into this year refreshed, renewed and ready to do my best.
Ema Sasic Editor 661-395-7392 esasic@bakersfield.com Follow her on Twitter: @ema_sasic
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January 2021
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THE EDUCATION/ PROFESSIOWNAL SINGLES ISSUE
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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CONTENTS
JANUARY 2021 Vol. 15 / Issue No. 4
64
UP FRONT Editor's Note The Big Picture Meet our Contributors
LIFESTYLES Beauty Love & Life Back in Bakersfield Home & Garden The Marketplace Business Profile Peace of Mind
EAT & DRINK Salty & Sweet Sip & Swirl
11 4 8 9
11 13 14 16 19 20 22
23
23 26 A rising star
GO & DO Entertainment Arts & Culture
Kern native Liberty Roche shares musical journey
57 60
GREAT KERN COUNTY Personality Bakersfield Matters Study Hall History How Bakersfield are you?
61 64 65 66 67
January 2021
The future is bright
Local leaders find ways to better community
Inner wellness What's in your at-home spa kit?
January 2021
O N T H E C OV E R The dentist will see you now. Research shows that oral health is linked to overall health, which means a healthy mouth helps maintain a healthy body and a clean bill of health isn’t complete without a trip to the dentist.
TOP DOCS Meet your local health care pros
Dr. Richard Casteen, implantologist and owner of Capital Dental Group
$3.95
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— Photo courtesy of Capital Dental Group
FEATURES
THIS MONTH
PAGE 42 Changemakers improve Kern County in their own ways
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S
2021
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R
At a time when health care is more important than ever, Bakersfield residents can take comfort in knowing that their city is on the leading edge of medicine. Bakersfield houses many medical experts who pride themselves on providing ultimate care. Whether you're in need of a family physician or a specialist, it's important to find the right doctor for you.
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Top Doctors
D O CTO
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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THE BIG PICTURE TEDDY BEAR TOSS
Stuffed animals flew through the air for this annual event. While most events came to a halt due to COVID-19, the Teddy Bear Toss continued outdoors. Condors mascot Colonel Claw waves while surrounded by donated stuffed animals at Mechanics Bank Arena. The event brought in approximately 2,000 donated teddy bears and other stuffed animals.
» See more of this story on BAKERSFIELD.COM. 8
January 2021
PHOTO BY NICK ELLIS
MEET OUR
CONTRIBUTORS
Jess Druey
Anna Marie Frank
Lisa Kimble
Anna is a brain health expert, a worksite wellness specialist, published author, lecturer, business owner, and, as if that doesn't keep her busy enough, she's also the mother of two thriving children. Follow Anna and find her information on how you can become your best self @HappyWholeYou on Instagram and Facebook.
Lisa is an Emmy Award-winning former broadcast journalist who began her career in radio. She's done it all — news anchoring, producing, radio and is one of Bakersfield Life's regular contributors. Lisa has served on countless community boards in Bakersfield such as the Junior League of Bakersfield and has been a Kern County Grand Juror, to name a few.
Jess was born and bred in Bakersfield. After living in Los Angeles for the past few years and working in the entertainment industry, her world was turned upside down when she decided to move home. Now back in the city, she is seeing Bakersfield in a whole different light. Follow her on Instagram @JessDruey.
Lyle W. Norton
Julie Plata
Jessica Jones
Lyle is a wine enthusiast and blogger who has written a wine column for 20 years. He incorporates wine into his passion to travel and tries to bring his readers along on the journey. Visit his blog at lifebylyle.com.
Julie is a historian and lecturer at CSUB and Cerro Coso Community College. She has been a contributor to Bakersfield Life Magazine since 2015 and loves to bring the stories of Bakersfield’s past to life. When she isn’t digging through the archives, she loves spending time with her family and menagerie of pets.
Jessica Jones is a lifelong resident of Bakersfield, a wife and a homeschooling mom to two teens. She is passionate about her faith, loved ones and our community. Her hobbies include yoga, hiking, fitness, gardening, thrifting and flipping furniture. She loves to write daily in her journal, for her blog, a novel each November for Nanowrimo and now for Bakersfield Life. www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Safety first. Healing always. While safety in health care is essential, during a pandemic, it becomes that much more critical. Memorial Hospital received an ‘A’ rating from The Leapfrog Group, a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the United States. This grade places Memorial Hospital among the safest hospitals in the nation—an accomplishment that has never meant more than it does today. Learn more about Memorial Hospital’s efforts to keep patients safe during the pandemic and beyond at dignityhealth.org/bakersfield/covid19.
LIFESTYLES
Josette Kouyomjian and a group of people at a launch party for her Number46 Sustainable Style Box.
Q&A
Wardrobe stylist Josette Kouyomjian reveals favorite trends, tips Questions answered by Josette Kouyomjian
Q
Q: Any fashion regrets? A: Fast Fashion
Q: Describe your personal style? A: Definitely influenced by my mother with some 1920s Alice Prin (Kiki de Montparnasse), Deborah Harry and 90s Riot GRRRL.
Q:What’s your most recent fashion purchase? A: A jacquard chinoiserie dress from Sheila of Sentimental Journey vintage. I’ve been drooling over it for months. I kept thinking I would have the perfect celebrity client to purchase it for. There were no events to dress people for with the pandemic, so taking it as a sign that it was still there, I bought it for myself.
: When did you first develop an interest for fashion? A: In utero. No, but really, my mother was very stylish. She was Italian, born in Marseille, France, and raised in Paris. She had that coveted French-style — absolutely effortless but unmistakably French. She was earthy, too — I think because she was from the South.
Q: What are some of your favorite wardrobe items in your closet? A: My denim jacket: it’s 15-plus years old, and it was a treat to myself from my boutique. I never leave on a trip without it. My
large silk and cashmere scarfs, and my vintage Justin boots.
Q:Where do you usually like to shop for clothes? A: I thrift always and everywhere. Q: What wardrobe staple could you not live without? » See more on Josette Kouyomijan on PAGE 12.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSETTE KOUYOMJIAN
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Lifestyles A: Just one? My denim jacket, but I think you should
really ask me what wardrobe staples I couldn’t live without. In that case, my denim jacket, comfortable jeans and a black linen dress. The black linen dress is something I replace almost every summer — because I wear it to death. I always purchase from a sustainable brand like Everlane or try to find it secondhand — if I’m lucky. Oh, and my scarfs.
Q: What are some fashion trends people should be aware of? A: Denim trends, find styles that work for you, and stick to them. Not every type of jean is for every BODY. Be careful shopping fast fashion — if it’s at Zara, it’s trendy; if you shop for new clothing, don’t get greedy. Just because you can walk out with two bags full for $100 doesn’t mean you should. Better to spend that money on one or two quality staple pieces that you will wear for years than several items that will end up in the garbage next season.
Josette Kouyomjian
Q: How do you find inspiration in your closet? A: Always editing it to only what I love. I remove pieces that no longer make me feel good. If you have a wardrobe of items you love, you will always be inspired to get dressed. Even if it’s sweats, make it sweats you love and feel inspired by. Q: What are some things you’ve learned about styling over the years? A: I’ve learned to read and really listen to people, not just the words. Everyone I help has a story to tell. I hear and study them to distill their style. We tend to have a lot of ideas we gather from outside and around us. I think what I do very well is help my clients take all of those influences and tell their own unique story with how they dress. How we show up is our prelude; if we want people to stay until the end, we have to grab their attention at the first impression. Q: What are some styling tips to give to women and men? A: Tell your story. Be creative; please don’t let circumstances stop you from showing up how you want to be seen. Before you add something new to your wardrobe, ask yourself these questions: Will this bring me joy? Is the fabric
Josette Kouyomjian dresses Smriti Mundhra for the Oscars in 2020.
pleasing to the touch and high quality? Is it constructed to last? Will I wear it more than 30 times? Will it last over 30 washes? Will I want to wear it in 12 months? What is the country of origin and what are their labor practices? Does it tell my style story?
THE RUNDOWN Demin jeans Be creative by adding elements to your wardrobe like accessories. Don't be afraid of trying something new.
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January 2021
Buy high quality fabric, make sure it's wearable, washable and you're able to feel comfortable in it.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOSETTE KOUYOMJIAN, FREEPIK.COM
Love & Life
Wholeness in 2021 By Jessica Jones
AS WE GLADLY GIVE A MOST TRYING YEAR THE BOOT AND HEARTILY WELCOME IN 2021, I WANT TO WISH YOU THE HAPPIEST NEW YEAR, AND I WANT TO CHALLENGE YOU TO MAKE THIS YOUR HEALTHIEST YEAR YET.
This may seem like an impossible request as we find ourselves still in a pandemic and not yet back to normal. But I believe it is possible, even in times like these. If you’ve hit a setback, lost sight of your long-term goals or have given up on yourself, forgive yourself and make today your day for a change. Let’s take responsibility for who we are and who we want to become. Let’s harness the power that we do have by first embracing that we are beings made up of mind, body and spirit. When we decide that no matter what tomorrow holds, we will fight for what we want and not give up, no matter how many times we fail, real change begins. Taking proper care of ourselves not only strengthens us for the year ahead, but also for those who depend on us. We can offer them our whole selves, great hope and love. The mind is powerful. The Bible says in Philippians 4:8 to meditate on whatever is true and honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report; if there is anything virtuous and praiseworthy. Every day we choose what we read, watch, listen to and absorb. We are bombarded with hundreds of messages. Practicing meditation stills the mind, making us more aware of our thought patterns, opening us up to choose more positive thoughts. Our body allows us to do amazing things. Stress, lack of exercise and poor dietary choices are damaging to the body. By eating fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and drinking plenty of water, we better care for our cells and organs. We also gain new energy. Exercise is great for our heart, organs and immune system. Walking and practicing yoga regularly reduces stress levels. Yoga is highly beneficial for all five major systems of the body — digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, circulatory and muscular systems — taking the body from a stressed state to a balanced state. Our spirit craves peace, hope and rest. In times like these, it is essential that we hope, especially in seasons of waiting. As a woman of faith, I have found great peace from having daily devotions, where I journal, pray and read the Bible (the good news). When I surrender to God any uncertainties, He is faithful to give me faith and perseverance. Bakersfield has many churches, support groups and ministries that exist to help people find hope and community. Even in social distancing, we are not meant to go through
PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA JONES
“
Taking proper care of ourselves not only strengthens us for the year ahead, but also for those who depend on us. We can offer them our whole selves, great hope and love."
life alone. I hope and pray that in the year 2021, whatever may be, we live thankful lives and count our blessings. That we choose to be present, show up for ourselves and others, fight for hope and live powerfully and victoriously every single gifted day. Opinions expressed in this column are those of Jessica Jones. www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Back in Bakersfield
For GG
The pain of the pop By Jess Druey I HAVE VAGUE MEMORIES OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CONVERSATIONS THAT HAPPENED AT RECESS ON THE PLAYGROUND. You know, the ones where an older kid would say where babies came from and your 7-year-old world is rocked forever.
I am not sure the right word for the shift that happens in our mind when we start realizing there is more to life than the book fair, tooth fairy money and hoping to get a pink Nintendo DS for Christmas. The word for when the harsh reality begins to sink in that getting a B- on a weekly math exam is minute in comparison to the heartache of death and divorce. The word for when the pure, warm bubbles our parents protected us with are popped by forces out of their control. A hot topic on the monkey bars in 2005 at Leo B. Hart Elementary was grandparents. We spoke about who had what as if they were Pokemon cards that we collected. Some had two, others had none. Me? I had a whopping four! I paraded around the fact that I had all of my grandparents as if it was my greatest achievement in life. In many ways, my relationship with my grandparents is still one of my greatest life treasures. I’m not sure if it is because I am an old soul, or a people person, but I have always viewed them as little gems given to us and have soaked up every moment with them. Complete humans who have a lifetime of stories and wisdom to pass onto you. Angels who objectively watch from afar as we walk through the world and laugh as we make the same mistakes they once did. My own little Disneyland full of adventures where their homes were the greatest summer vacation I could ever go on. Full-time employees whose only job is to love us. My annual back to school writing prompt “What did you do over break?” was always followed by stories of going to the beach with my grandma in Ventura and riding horses at my GG’s (Grandpa and Grandma Druey) ranch. GG’s was a magical land that felt like the Wild West I read about in story books. Our days were filled with running through the sprinklers in the heat, playing cards, helping Grandma garden, waking up early to watch the sunrise, lunch on red checkered tablecloths at the picnic table outside, watching grandpa rope, riding in the truck, and on days that I was lucky enough, climbing onto Dolly’s saddle to learn how to ride myself. Only the brave got up at the crack of dawn to face the cowboy duties with GG. Scooping up the “you know what,” dropping the hay into the barrels and filling up the water tank. The reward of hot breakfast from Grandma and the pride that you carried throughout the rest of the day was
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January 2021
worth every bit of work. It’s funny what we remember as adults. Flashes of details that are ingrained in our hearts: the color of Grandpa’s red paisley handkerchiefs; the way Grandma wrapped our turkey sandwiches in paper towels when we took day trips to the lake; boots perfectly lined up at the back door; the speckled dishware; the shine of Grandpa’s belt buckles; reading “A Bad Case Of The Stripes” every night before bed; the sound of the bell signaling lunch was ready and it was time to come inside; laying on the carpet at the feet of Grandpa’s armchair with our beloved dog Lucy. And perhaps most ingrained in me: Grandpa saying every morning as he took his vitamins, “These are so I can dance with you at your wedding someday.” I was fortunate enough to float with ease in my bubble for years beyond what most are given. My bubble popped this past March when I lost the first of my jewels, my Grandpa Druey. 1940s music filled the room as he layed in bed at Hoffman Hospice, and when “Moon River” came on, I held my Papa, he sang, and we got our dance. COVID-19 hit shortly after and my heart breaks for the families who have not been able to share these special last moments with loved ones. Final shared moments such as Grandpa saying over
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JESS DRUEY
Grandpa and Grandma Druey, also known as GG.
and over again how blessed and how proud he is of us, watching my dad get his father dressed and perfectly combing his hair, seeing what 60 years of marriage looks like as my GG embraced one another, reading a 9th grade school project of mine back to him which was all about his life, FaceTiming my Uncle Kirk who couldn’t be there, and, of course, in classic Grandpa fashion, him never failing to brag to the nurses about how beautiful his wife is. Due to the pandemic, my family is still waiting to hold his celebration of life. Month after month, my Grandma checks for the “OK” from her local church to gather. While we wait until it is safe again, I know there was no better way to honor my Grandpa Druey. He was a storyteller and probably the reason I write these articles. One of his favorite stories to tell was of 3-year-old me running down the driveway waving “Bye bye, Papa” as he drove away. He was a true cowboy, lover of animals, and of our country. A Bakersfield high school football player whose photo is still hanging up at Luigi’s. A father who called his son daily — I can still remember the voice from the home phone caller ID (remember those?) saying “Call From Cal Druey.” A follower of Christ. A husband who was stopped frequently at the grocery store by strangers to say “You two are the cutest couple I have ever seen!” He was, is and will always be one G’s of my GG. If you or your loved ones are experiencing the pain of the pop — the pain of pandemic loss — now more than ever, my heart is with you. After the initial shock wore off, I have been able to see that I did not say “Bye bye, Papa” in March. He is one of my jewels, kept forever, and passed down through the generations.
A letter Grandpa Druey wrote about Jess Druey.
We can assist with: • Bathing/Grooming • Personal Assistance • Preparing Meals • Medication Reminders • Shopping • Companionship • Light Housekeeping
The opinions expressed in this column are those of Jess Druey. www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Lifestyles
Kelly Archer
Q&A Kelly Archer Interiors offers ways to spruce up one’s home for the new year By Ema Sasic A NEW YEAR GIVES EVERYONE THE CHANCE TO WIPE THE SLATE CLEAN AND MAKE CHANGES IN THEIR LIVES. After a
year like 2020, people might be more eager than ever to forget about the past and start looking ahead to the future. One way may be through their homes. As people continue to work from home, they may want to spruce up their living spaces and bring a bright new energy that will fuel them all year. Kelly Archer from Kelly Archer Interiors Inc. sat down with Bakersfield Life Magazine to share some of her tips for making one’s home more inviting. BL: How long have you been a home designer? KA: I’ve been with Kelly Archers Interiors Inc. since 2014. Before then, I worked at Red Door for about six years, and I was just freelance before that. I’ve been in design for over 20 years. BL: How did you get in the design world? KA: It’s just who I am. As a child, I would move furniture
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January 2021
around in my bedroom. My mom was an interior decorator, and it’s something in my blood and I’ve always loved to do it. BL: What were some of the design trends you noticed this year? KA: People are loving what we call revolution fabrics. They’re wanting to have white sofas. Everyone is lighting up. They’re doing white sofas with stain resistant fabrics. They can have their children on them, they don’t need to worry. Everything’s cleanable. Everybody loves anything that’s earth-friendly and functional environments. We’re taking back all the heaviness of fabrics and streamlining. It’s across the board. Intentional environments. When you’re in a home, there’s not just stuff everywhere, everything is thought out. Another trend is living plants. I always have them in my store. It cleans the air, it has a real organic, earth-friendly, purposeful, intentional environment.
PHOTOS BY EMA SASIC, ARCHER INSPIRED
you and tell your story, and you don’t want it to look like your neighbor’s. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a beautiful environment. A lot of people think it has to be expensive, and it doesn’t. You can have a lot of beautiful things and have a budget. And we work with budgets, too. Sometimes people have to be realistic with their budgets, but we can help you get there and get you a plan. BL: As we move into 2021, the fresh slate a lot of people are looking for, what are you seeing? KA: We’re starting to see color come back, and people are mixing a lot of textures. What happens in design is fabric trends and color trends dictate our design for the year. We’re in a pandemic and we’re sad, but when that is over, you will see vibrant color come back. If we have a low economy, we’re looking at things like burlaps, earthy, rough, go back to basics, farmhouse, going to antique stores. Now we’re not doing that. We’re going back to refining, our economy is better, back to being positive. Our environment is more clean and streamlined and thoughtful. Grays are now not that big of a deal. When you have a white sofa and have black near it, that contrast is so defining and it feels so rich.
White sofas were a popular trend in homes in 2020. For the new year, Kelly Archer believes pops of color will be in style.
BL: What classifies the revolution fabrics? KA: It’s this new line of fabrics that’s hydrophobic. A lot of the fibers they would put in carpets, they’re doing that in sofas. If you were to spill red wine, it would just sit on top. It doesn’t absorb. Before it would be ‘I need a dark sofa for my kids and dogs.’ Now, there’s white sofas that are white and you’re fine. Everything is very user friendly. Just live, don’t worry, don’t be upright. You can have a beautiful environment without being nervous. With 2020, life is short. Enjoy your environment. To me, especially during 2020, our home has become our sanctuary. People are at home and are looking around and saying ‘my home sucks.’ Or they’re in a Zoom call and it looks horrible behind them. BL: Are you noticing anything else other than the white colors? KA: It used to be that you would pick your metal. Now we’re mixing metals. In the kitchen we’ll do gold handles with silver handles, or black handles with gold handles. It’s almost kind of — which I love because I don’t love matchy matchy — let’s break the rules, and in doing that, it’s this fresh, new, eclectic look. BL: People are definitely going to notice that and say ‘I’ve never seen this before.’ KA: And that’s always the goal. Your house should reflect
BL: For people who want to do little designs and changes in their homes, what tips to you have? KA: Don’t have anything in your home that you don’t absolutely love. I’d rather someone have an empty wall than to put stuff up that you don’t love. You should look around your environment and love it. Get rid of your old pillows, get some new fresh color pillows on your sofa. Get some new throws. Get some new plants. Anything living makes you feel like you’re caring for something, cleans the environment and makes you feel happy, especially when you watch them grow. Invest in a nice tray on your coffee table with a plant. It makes you happy when you’re there. Sometimes what’s crazy is you can look around your house and rearrange it and feel like something feels different. Try to see something different in your house than you usually do. Move a mirror from one wall to another. Change the mirror’s direction. If it’s horizontal, go vertical, it elongates the wall. Paint your walls. Color evokes our feelings. If your paint is dreary, you’re going to feel that way. Maybe you need some fresh paint, maybe you want to bring in a new window covering so you can bring in new light. That will help especially with our mental health. I feel like a lot of people are depressed in their homes. Your environment does create a mood for you. If you change it up a little, it can help with your mental being. BL: Any mistakes people should avoid or design faux pas? KA: Going with the trends. The reason I say that is just because something’s trendy, doesn’t mean it’s you. Just because farmhouse was popular, I’m not a farmhouse girl. And I love Joanna Gaines. I can appreciate it, but it doesn’t » See more Kelly Archer on PAGE 18. www.BakersfieldLife.com
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reflect who I am. If it doesn’t, don’t get it. Just because everybody has it, doesn’t mean it’s for you. When I walk through your door, your house is telling me your story, not someone else’s. BL: If someone says they need to decorate every single room in their house, are you game for that, or do you focus on smaller projects? KA: My business has grown so large that now my assistant is doing the one room and two rooms, and I’m doing the bigger projects. I’m even working on a project in Denver that I just sold. I’ve done Wichita, Denver. It’s people who have fallen in love with me because my clients become my friends. So when they move, they want me to go with them so they fly me out to look at their environment there and do it. And then we’ll have a moving company come and move the furniture and then we fly back out and put it together.
More Information
Kelly Archer suggests adding new plants, pillows and throws to easily spruce up a space.
Kelly Archer Interiors Inc. and Archer the Storefront 3510 Allen Road Suite 102 and 103 661-809-2687 kelly@kellyarcherinteriors.com Services available: Consultation, furniture (customization available), lamps and lighting, wall decor, accessories, plants and gourmet coffee
Take the next step in
YOUR EDUCATION Earn a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or credential at Fresno Pacific University’s Bakersfield Campus
Evening classes for the working adult
12775 Stockdale Hwy Bakersfield, CA 93314 661-617-4500
fpu.edu/bakersfield 18
January 2021
Conveniently located at Bakersfield Christian High School
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Lifestyles Kern County History
Unique, custom-designed jewelry by Raul Zavala
For your home and office, watercolor and oil paintings by local artist Charlotte White. Charlotte White's watercolor paintings of Oildale and Kern County will be on display during January and February at Covenant Office. Tuesdays through Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can contact the artist by calling 661-330-7676.
Fine jewelry, diamond settings and custom design. Most repairs done in one day, while you wait! Cash 4 Gold & Diamonds 5009 Stockdale Highway Inside Lucky's Boutique 661-205-9171
Bakersfield Art Association
promotes whole body, mind, spirit and soul wellness with an emphasis on giving you a beautiful appearance and skin looking back at you in the mirror. now available monthly Home Injection kits of Fatbuster and B12 to promote a natural weight loss by breaking down stubborn fat!
Beckie Duke RN
Recognized as an Expert in Facial Aesthetic Non-Surgical Injections Sign up for Specials at Skinrn1@outlook.com
1607 19th St. 661-869-2320 Please call for our current hours of operation www.bakersfieldartassociation.org Facebook and Instagram Art on display and for sale. Classes for adults and children. Paintings, Prints, Digitals, Photography, Sculpture, Stained Glass, Dyed Silks, Crafts/Woodwork/Ceramics Artist: Sissy Ullmann "Kern River Path" Oil Painting Artist contact: (661) 589-1714
ACTIVE FX & Total FX
For Ablative Skin Resurfacing
Creates younger skin with Skin Tightening, Cellulite Reduction & Body Tightening.
For Laser Hair reduction, Photofacials, Laser Vein Removal & Laser Skin Resurfacing. Check out www.cynosure.com
Weight Reduction Phentermine and natural Fatbuster with added vitamins and minerals, B12.
Pro Contura Skin tightening. Body contouring & Cellulite treatment. Countura melts fat permanently for circumferential reduction.
PRP Skin Rejuvenation, Volume Replacement, Vampire Facial & for Hair Loss
Office of Edmund Fisher M.D. FACS 5301 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 200, Bakersfield, CA Visit our website www.skinrnaesthetics.com Online appointments Available
Injections
Jeveau “Newtox�, Botox, Xeomin, Dysport Neurotoxins & Juvederm Ultra & Ultra Plus Voluma, Vollure, Volbella, Radiesse, Versa dermal fillers
661-323-6200
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Business Profile
Capital Dental Group A clean bill of health starts here
» A NEW YEAR OFTEN BRINGS WITH IT A DESIRE TO IMPROVE ONE’S HEALTH. MANY TURN TO A MIXTURE OF DIET AND EXERCISE, BUT A CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH IS NOT COMPLETE WITHOUT A DENTAL CHECKUP.
Researchers have discovered a connection between declining oral health and underlying systemic conditions. Not only can poor oral hygiene lead to cavities and gum disease, studies have shown that it is linked to heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes as well. In other words, a healthy mouth helps maintain a healthy body. And it starts with a trip to the dentist. Capital Dental Group is a full-service dental office designed to meet a wide range of services for kids and adults under one roof, from general exams, orthodontics, sedation dentistry and dental emergencies to dental implants, oral surgery and full-mouth reconstruction. The 18,000-squarefoot facility in southwest Bakersfield is home to five general dentists and four dental specialists and features a hygiene department, orthodontics department, specialty whitening department, in-house lab and more. For increased convenience, Capital Dental Group is open seven days a week and accepts new patients. Don’t let its size fool you. While Capital Dental Group is a large dental office, it still retains the feel of a private practice. New patients are assigned to a single doctor who will see them for all their exams and treatments — doctors know their patients and patients know their doctors. Through the Center for Implant Dentistry, a supplementary practice of Capital Dental Group, unrivaled experience and state-of-the-art technology combine to give patients the smile they’ve always wanted. The Center for Implant Dentistry’s implantologist, prosthodontist, periodontist, oral surgeon and anesthesiologist total over 140 years of experience
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Capital Dental Group
and the in-house lab gives them the ability to give patients new teeth in a day with the revolutionary All-on-4 treatment concept. Dental implants look, feel and function like real teeth, making them the ideal solution for replacing missing teeth as they allow patients to smile, talk and dine with confidence. Not sure if dental implants are right for you? Schedule a free consultation, complete with CT scans, and find out. Whether it’s one missing tooth or full-arch replacement, the staff at the Center for Implant Dentistry can give you a reason to smile. Don’t have dental insurance? Join the Capital Dental Group Membership Club. For as low as $27 a month, the Capital Dental Group Membership Club covers exams, cleanings and X-rays; provides a 20 percent discount off all other treatments; and includes a custom at-home whitening
kit. The Membership Club is available for children as well. If you’re looking to make health a priority this year, make sure to see a dentist. Start the new year with a smile and a clean bill of oral health. The rest of your body will thank you for it. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 661-861-8000 or go to www.capitaldentalgroup.com.
More information Capital Dental Group
8701 Camino Media 661-861-8000 www.capitaldentalgroup.com Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
Prioritizing your health? We can help Research shows that oral health is linked to heart disease, stroke cancer and diabetes. In other words, a healthy mouth helps maintain a healthy body. That’s where we come in. Capital Dental Group is a equipped to handle everything from general exams and cleanings to full-mouth reconstruction. We treat the whole family, from kids to adults.
Open 7 days a week Accepting new patients Same-day appointments available for toothaches and dental emergencies Membership plan available for patients without dental insurance Sedation dentistry available for anxious patients
8701 Camino MediaBakersfield, CA 93311 Call 661•861•8000 www.capitaldentalgroup.com
Peace of Mind
A new year, a new brain, a new energy By Anna Marie Frank
AS WE TAKE THE HOLIDAY LIGHTS DOWN AND PONDER AT WHAT 2021 WILL BRING, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO EXPLORE A NEW OUTLOOK ON HEALTH. An outlook that puts your
brain health and energy field first. An outlook that focuses more toward how your brain is functioning, how you are truly feeling and how your vibrational energetic state is impacting your overall joy! I know for a fact that working on one’s brain health and energy field is way more impactful than a number on a scale or dress size in the closet. I have worked in wellness for 20 years and every new year we see the same routine. “I want to lose weight!” “I am going to get in shape!” Why are these two “goals” so common? People want to feel happy and healthy! Truth is they make these goals based on a feeling. On an emotion but then they only address the physical. They don’t address what’s going on within them. You can eat all the green salads, slam green juices, workout for hours on end, but if you don’t look inward you will not be successful. This is why at Happy Whole You we start with what’s going on within you and the energy around you to get the best results. Do you know what type of brain you have? Do you know if you have any emotional blockages within your body or in your energy field? Are you confused as to what I am writing about? Let this be a sign that in 2021 it is time for you to care for yourself from a different approach. Here are a few tips to enhance your brain and energy field: Kick off the new year with a decluttering of your home and virtual world. Everything you bring into your life is bringing energy. Get rid of the things that don’t bring you joy and the things that drain your energy. Shift your thinking and vocabulary. The words we speak carry an energy. As do the words we think impact the energy of the brain. Try to take out negative words from your vocabulary such as hate, can’t or any swear words. Maybe cut out one word each month and see how you do. Also be mindful of the conversations you have with others. Make sure you stay in a positive light which will raise the energy of the conversation and will leave your brain happy. Sage your house, car and even yourself. Sage is a great way to shift out negative energy, and it is also antimicrobi-
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Anna Marie Frank
al and antibacterial. Get support with your brain health and energy field. Visit Happy Whole You on F Street to learn more. When I started in wellness, it was all about the body mechanics and physical aspects of being well. It was all about the legs, abs and butt, not about the brain nor the energy that supports our whole being. We are all emotional energetic beings! Doesn’t it make sense to work on the brain and energy? I want to remind you that feeling good and happiness is something that lives within all of us and can be accessed when our brain is properly working, our energy is healthy, and our mindset is open. For a long time, I thought to be happy I had to look a certain way and once I got that look everything would fall into place. Well. let me tell you. that never worked for me or any of my clients. The real work needs to be done internally with your brain health and energy first! The opinions expressed in this column are those of Anna Marie Frank.
PHOTO BY LORI OVANESSIAN/@SIMPLEE.FOCUSED
EAT & DRINK
Vida Vegan offers an array of menu choices like empanadas, burgers and Thai curry.
You won’t believe you’re eating just plants at Vida Vegan By Ema Sasic and Julie Mana-ay Perez WE CAN ALL ACKNOWLEDGE THAT VEGAN FOOD MAYBE ISN’T OUR FIRST OPTION WHEN IT COMES TO DINING OUT. But some-
times you can pleasantly surprise yourself when you step out of your comfort zone and try something new. After opening the doors to the Bakersfield community almost two years ago, vegans, vegetarians and even 100 percent carnivores have embraced the plant-based cuisine offered at Vida Vegan. The secret to this spot’s success is co-owners Alejandro Ocampo and Mao Granada listening to their customers’ requests and turning non-vegan dishes into tasty vegan options. Everything from empanadas to “chicken,” “beef,” curry and
burgers graces the menu. And if you think you’ll be able to taste the difference, chances are you’ll be easily fooled. It’s all in the texture, according to Ocampo, and you’ll quickly realize that you’re not missing out on the real thing. If you’re craving some dessert, not being able to use eggs or butter doesn’t stop chefs from delivering soft, gooey and mouthwatering treats. After a meal at Vida Vegan, you might just begin incorporating plant-based meals each week. The restaurant can help with that too — in January, it is planning on launching meal prep offerings, along with cold-pressed juices for a three-day cleanse. » See more Salty & Sweet on PAGE 24.
PHOTOS BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ, EMA SASIC
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Salty & Sweet
Tropical ceviche
APPETIZERS
Owner Alejando Ocampo showcases the crispy Thai curry, the Vida burger with dirty fries and the empanadas.
Ema Sasic on the roasted corn: I’m from Illinois, so I love my corn, and I was a big fan of this dish. The lime chili mayo gave this dish a kick, but the cotija cheese and sour cream blended perfectly with it. Julie Mana-ay Perez on the chili cheese fries: Vida Vegan’s chili cheese fries are listed as “sharable” items on its menu, but one bite of this dish and you won’t want to share with the rest of the table. It’s based with crunchy fries and topped with Vida Vegan’s famous three-bean chili, melted cheese and green onions. ES on the tropical ceviche: I’m all about the shrimp when it comes to a traditionally made ceviche, but if I’m being honest, I didn’t even notice it was missing from this delicious and tropical take. I really enjoyed the mix of fruits — pineapples, mangos and cucumbers — with cauliflower, pico de gallo and avocado. You get a great salty and sweet combination!
ENTREES
JMP on the crispy Thai curry: This beautifully plated dish tastes as good as it looks. I’m a big fan of Thai food, so I couldn’t wait to dig into Vida Vegan’s version of Thai curry. This dish features steamed coconut rice, chopped potatoes, carrots, crispy chick’n all drizzled in a sweet yet savory Thai curry sauce. ES on the Vida burger with dirty fries: This burger gives you everything you enjoy about In-N-Out, just without the super long lines in the drive-thru. I specifically ate the beyond beef patty on its own to see if I could taste a difference, and I honestly couldn’t. The patty is seasoned wonderfully, and the vegan cheese melts just like any other cheddar cheese slice. Vida’s take on the animal style fries also fulfills those In-N-Out cravings. JMP on the empanadas: Having a Hispanic background, empanadas are one of my favorite foods — it’s small and you could probably eat five of them guiltlessly. These Columbian empanada fritters are stuffed with ground “beef” crumbles, baked potatoes and Vida Vegan’s homemade sauce all cooked to a perfect exterior crunch. The dish is also served with a side of Columbian aji and garlic aioli.
The Vida burger with dirty fries
DESSERTS
The cripsy Thai curry
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Roasted corn
ES on the chocolate chip and brownie cookie: Two of my favorite sweets in one! There are no eggs or butter used, but this cookie stands on its own and has a rich and yummy flavor. I may even try to recreate this at home.
ES on the peanut butter smores cookie: When you break into the middle of this giant cookie, that’s where all the yummy goodness lies. The peanut butter flavor comes through wonderfully, while marshmallows sweeten the flavor up nicely. JMP on the cinnamon roll: I don’t have cinnamon rolls often because I can easily feel disgusted after tasting a combination of the frosted cream and the cinCinnamon roll namon roll. In Vida Vegan’s case, I was blown away. The first thing I could taste was the frosted cream and it was sensational. The cinnamon roll was so soft and easy to piece off, and it wasn’t overly coated with cinnamon. The combination of the frosted cream and the cinnamon hit the spot.
Ema Sasic
Peanut butter smores cookie featured with the cinnamon churro cookie and the brownie chocolate chip cookie.
Julie Mana-ay Perez
Hot Mexican chocolate and the iced caramel macchiato
DRINKS
ES on the hot Mexican chocolate: This was one of the most enjoyable hot chocolates I’ve ever had — and to think it’s vegan! The blend of cinnamon and chili warms you up instantly and makes you want to cozy up to a fireplace. I’ll definitely be having this again. JMP on the caramel macchiato: I have coffee at least four days out of the week, so I was looking forward to this caramel macchiato. All of Vida Vegan’s coffee is freshly roasted by Bakersfield Coffee Company. A caramel macchiato isn’t something I order because I know from experience that this coffee is often overly sweet and too much for me to handle. Vida Vegan does this beverage justice — it uses the right amount of caramel and coffee so the flavors balance and it’s light enough to drink throughout the day. You can order this served iced or hot.
More information Vida Vegan Co. 4530 Stine Road 661-573-3202
Come try Aunt Mae’s gourmet Fudge!
Our 24k Toffee is our richest flavor! We melt Hershey Gold bars on our toffee!!
830 18th Street December Hours:
FOR ORDERS PLEASE CALL 725-5200 or We ship nationwide at www.auntmaessweets.com www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Sip & Swirl
The Légende R collection Affordable Bordeaux By Lyle W. Norton
CHATEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD IS KNOWN GLOBALLY FOR PRODUCING ICONIC WINES FROM FRANCE’S BORDEAUX REGION SINCE IT ACQUIRED THE ESTATE IN 1868. Under the Domaines Barons de Roth-
schild umbrella, it is now producing wines that offer a unique opportunity to discover the flavor of Bordeaux at reasonable prices. The complete Légende R Collection includes a Bordeaux Rouge, a trio of appellation-specific red blends from Médoc, Saint Emilion and Pauillac and a traditional Bordeaux Blanc white blend with prices ranging from $18 to $50. Oenologist Diane Flamand has overseen the collection since 2004. She studied at the University of Bordeaux and has worked much of her career in Médoc and other nearby regions. Local knowledge enables her to meet the difficult challenges in making high quality, affordable Bordeaux wines that turn a profit Through Zoom, we joined Diane in Bordeaux as she led a virtual tasting of the five Légende wines beginning with a white sauvignon blanc (85 percent) and semillon (15 percent) blend, the Légende R Bordeaux Blanc 2019 ($18). The semillon provides a more rounded texture and added aromas to the natural crisp flavors. Flamand suggests serving it cool, as an aperitif or paired with oysters, seafood or goat cheese. A blend of cabernet sauvignon (60 percent) and merlot (40 percent), the Légende R Bordeaux Rouge 2017 ($18) is a light-bodied, fruit-driven wine made to drink young. It is aged for nine months, releasing a fruity bouquet with soft tannins and black currant flavors on the palate. Pairing suggestions include pizza and pasta. St. Emilion is Bordeaux’s largest Right Bank appellation that produce merlot-dominant red blends. Cooler climate and soils in the Right Bank favor merlot over cabernet sauvignon that thrives in warmer regions. Merlot in the Légende R Saint Émilion 2016 ($37) is blended with a small amount of cabernet franc. Spirited jammy aromas are followed by dark berry and spice flavors with soft tannins lingering through the finish. Pairing suggestions include lamb and red meats after decanting the bottle for at least one hour. The Médoc appellation provides the perfect terroir for the full expression of cabernet
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF LYLE W. NORTON, UNSPLASH.COM
Chateau Lafite Rothschild
sauvignon. The Légende R Médoc 2016 ($25), sourced from vineyards in six different local communes, is a blend of cabernet sauvignon (65 percent) and merlot (35 percent). It is full-bodied with elegant structure and pepper spice, red fruits and licorice notes on the palate. Flamand noted that the high quality of the 2016 Left Bank vintage is reflected in this Médoc release that pairs well with red meats. Pauillac is one of the most recognized appellations in Bordeaux. Production of the full-bodied Légende R Pauillac 2015 ($50), a blend of cabernet sauvignon (60 percent) and merlot (40 percent), most closely resembles the structure of the iconic Lafite Rothschild wines. Eighty percent of the
Oenologist Diane Flamand with Legende Collection.
fruit comes from Lafite vineyards and it is aged for nine months in Lafite cooperage Although the COVID-19 pandemic has created some problems with exports to the United States, the Légende R Collection wines are accessible, mostly online. They, in my opinion, succeed in delivering an affordable taste of Bordeaux. The views expressed in this column are those of Lyle W. Norton.
Heater Service $ only 80
Servicing Bakersfield, Taft, Shafter & Surrounding Areas Residential | Commercial | Air Conditioning | Heating
Call 661-410-8390 to
Schedule Service License # 997135
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Giving you more
choices, healthier hearts,
happier
and
families
better lives.
When your heart is healthy, everything else just seems to fall into place. To help make that happen Bakersfield Heart Hospital is dedicated to bringing you more choices for better healthcare. Learn more about all these healthcare options at BakersfieldHeartHospital.com
Women's Heart Center Cath Lab
|
Center for Wound Healing
Cardiac Rehab Center Joint Replacement Center
|
Spine Program
Full-Service Emergency Department
3001 Sillect Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93308 852-6200 | BakersfieldHeartHospital.com
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A
P
DO
R
T
O
S
2 0 1 2
O CT
t a time when health care is more important than ever, Bakersfield residents can take comfort in knowing that their city is on the leading edge of medicine. Bakersfield houses many medical experts who pride themselves on providing ultimate care. Whether you're in need of a family physician or a specialist, it's important to find the right doctor for you. The following pages feature some of the city's most professional, talented and preeminent doctors.
TO TURN TH E PAGE ILLUSTRATION BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ
READMOR
E
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Brijesh Bhambi, MD T O P
patient-friendly, comprehensive and coordinated manner. Dr. Bhambi is proud of CCMC and said, “Central Cardiology, by virtue of its pristine reputation, has been able to attract the finest cardiologists in the country. The access to multidisciplinary knowledge with physicians covering different cardiovascular specialties, along with onsite full service state-of-the-art technology, allows Central Cardiology to cater to the patient needs efficiently.”
D O C T O R S
In 1994, when the FDA approved coronary stents to treat blockages in the heart and other blood vessels, Dr. Bhambi brought the technology to Bakersfield and helped train other cardiologists. He said, “Coronary stents have been a game changer in heart disease making bypass surgery much less necessary. Patients go home in a few hours after having complex stents that previously would have required open heart surgery and months of recovery.” In 1999, Dr. Bhambi, with the collaboration of multiple cardiologists, surgeons and community physicians, developed a strategy for a specialized heart hospital and Bakersfield Heart Hospital was realized. Bakersfield Heart Hospital has been synonymous with excellent quality care ever since.
Dr. Brijesh Bhambi
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, DESPITE SPECTACULAR ADVANCES, CONTINUES TO BE THE LEADING CAUSE OF MORTALITY IN THE UNITED STATES AND MUCH OF THE WORLD. It was the heavy concentration of premature coronary artery disease in the immediate family that contoured Dr. Brijesh Bhambi’s motivation to pursue a career in cardiology. After finishing a fellowship in interventional cardiology, Dr. Bhambi started his practice at Central Cardiology Medical Center in the summer of 1992. For nearly 30 years, he has pursued his commitment to service and excellence with relentless zeal. Central Cardiology has been one of the largest groups in the valley dedicated to delivering world-class care in a
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The infrastructure required to run physician practices has become increasingly complex over time. Shifting trends in health care have stressed the survival of solo practices. Recognizing these challenges, Dr. Bhambi joined forces with several leading practices in Bakersfield and founded Centric Health to coordinate patient care across all medical disciplines. Centric Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality medical care in a rapidly changing health care landscape and has nearly 80 providers addressing the needs of our community. In 2020, Dr. Bhambi assembled one of the best structural heart disease teams in the country at Bakersfield Heart Hospital with an enviable record of excellence. Structural heart disease is a collection of heart diseases that includes heart failure, valvular heart disease, stroke prevention and congenital heart disease. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has sucked most of the oxygen from health care advancement in 2020. The COVID-19 crunch has displaced non-COVID-19 health care and fear of contagion has discouraged patients from seeking care overall, leading to an increase in heart attacks, strokes and deaths. Fortunately, safe and highly effective vaccines have been developed and the hope is to reverse this tide as we enter 2021. “As we get over the COVID hump, we will be ready to deal with pent-up cardiovascular demands,” Dr. Bhambi said.
MAKE A CHANGE
THAT WILL DO YOUR HEART GOOD
Eat Right
Exercise
Get a Heart Health Checkup
A Heart Health Checkup at the
Women's Heart Center can tell you a lot about how your heart is doing. And knowing your numbers is the first step in taking control of your heart health.
Heart Health Checkup
25
$
only
Not covered by most insurance plans.
3001 Sillect Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93308
|
includes
- SCREENINGS - EVALUATION - PERSONALIZED REPORT
852-6200 | BakersfieldHeartHospital.com
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Dr. Ronald L. Reynoso Hernandez
T O P D O C T O R S
Dr. Ronald L. Reynoso Hernandez
GROWING UP IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, a young boy watched his physician father selflessly provide medical care to family, friends and his community. It didn’t matter the hour, the day or the place – when someone needed help, the doctor was there to give it. Decades later, that boy is now a man, carrying on the family “Dr.” tradition – in fact, Ronald L. Reynoso Hernandez, MD, leads an entire team of physicians as the market medical officer for Adventist Health services in Bakersfield and Tehachapi. As a doctor for 18 years (12 as an internist), Reynoso is dual board-certified in internal medicine and clinical informatics with a master’s degree in medical management and certification as a physician executive. He’s also added a few “letters” beyond his MD, including: CI, MMM, CEP, FACP, SFHM, which reflect advanced certifications in specialty areas. In all those years witnessing his father’s career in medicine, then all those years earning his own higher-level credentials, Dr.
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Reynoso never imagined that he, along with health care providers worldwide, would be carrying out his calling during a pandemic. Yet he is honored to do so. “Leading through this pandemic has been rewarding and challenging as we have had to navigate through a lot of uncertainty and uncharted territory,” said Dr. Reynoso, 43. “We all have been asked to do more and give more, but our medical staff has risen to this challenge.” Another testament to the front lines at Adventist Health Bakersfield came in December: The hospital just received its seventh A from The Leapfrog Group, the only facility in Kern County to earn the safety rating seven consecutive times! The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit health care ratings organization, assigns safety letter grades of A, B, C, D and F to hospitals nationwide based on their performance in preventing medical errors, infections and other harm to patients in their care. With COVID-19, the spotlight on safety and quality at medical centers has never shined brighter. Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice a year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public. During this COVID-19 emergency response, Dr. Reynoso also serves as the medical officer on the hospital’s Incident Command Center team for Adventist Health’s hospitals in Bakersfield and Tehachapi. The groups meet daily to assess pandemic-related needs for patients and staff. Patients’ needs can extend to conditions other than the COVID-19 virus – and that’s something that Dr. Reynoso and his fellow physicians have emphasized throughout this pandemic. “People should not delay or procrastinate their care as those conditions can become more difficult to treat or control – delaying your care can place your life at risk,” he said. “We can take care of you in a safe environment during this pandemic.” Looking ahead, past the holiday surge of COVID-19 and into a time when vaccines can be widely distributed, Dr. Reynoso is both optimistic and thankful. He encourages everyone to wear masks, practice physical distancing and wash hands often. “With God’s will, we will get through this,” he said. “And there are lessons: I have learned to be humble as we don’t have all the answers, to be patient as there are many things outside our control and to listen because excellent ideas can come from where you least expect. I’ve also learned that change is now a constant thing and that true teamwork pays off.” So says the dedicated, second-generation doctor – now selflessly providing medical care to everyone who needs it, no matter the day, the time or the place.
Leaders in safety
At Adventist Health Bakersfield, we are safe, open and ready for you. Now, more than ever, we all want the best care possible. In Kern County, we are the only hospital to receive an A for safety seven times in a row from The Leapfrog Group. We continue to earn straight A’s because our surgeons, nurses and caregivers uphold the highest quality standards, always with our patients’ well-being in mind. This award means we lead the way in safety, you are safe in our care and lives are being saved.
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Dr. Mark Ashley
CEO/Founder of Centre for Neuro Skills T O P D O C T O R S
Dr. Mark Ashley
AS A THOUGHT LEADER IN THE FIELD OF BRAIN INJURY REHABILITATION, Dr. Mark Ashley is recognized for his contribution to helping patients return to lives of dignity and independence. Dr. Ashley founded the Centre for Neuro Skills in 1980, when the first clinic opened in Bakersfield. With just two employees, he launched the company after his brother, Steve, suffered an aneurysm. Adequate care for people like Steve was non-existent, which inspired Dr. Ashley to develop tailored treatment in brain injury rehabilitation. He found that intensive therapies and a focus on returning patients to meaningful lives of independence were effective and transformative. That philosophy is still the driving force behind the company’s success. Centre for Neuro Skills now has seven clinics across California and Texas and has grown to over 1,000 employees. Dr. Ashley has also been published in esteemed medical journals and has written four books on brain injury causes, treatment and rehabilitation. He teaches and lectures internationally in a lifelong pursuit of advocacy that brings hope and healing to people like Steve. To this day, Dr. Ashley is inspired by a company pillar — “Patients Don’t Plateau” — and he sees it frequently in the clinics. When a person takes their first step or speaks their first word after an injury, it’s proof of the potential in every Centre for Neuro Skills’ patient.
Thought Leader. Innovator. And his brother was his first patient. Dr. Mark Ashley founded Centre for Neuro Skills 40 years ago when his brother, Steve, suffered a brain injury. Dr. Ashley built CNS to treat people like Steve, who deserve care that restores dignity and independence. 40 years later CNS is the world leader in brain injury rehabilitation. And for CNS, every patient is a Steve Ashley.
For more information visit us at neuroskills.com or call us at 800.922.4994
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January 2021
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Nanoknee
The highest quality care DR. THOMAS FERRO The founder of Nanoknee, Dr. Thomas Ferro, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacement surgery. Over his two decades in practice, he has focused upon developing advanced surgical techniques to aid in speeding patient recovery. In 2015, he began incorporating Dr. Thomas Ferro several new surgical and anesthesia techniques for a “rapid recovery” protocol. In 2017, he went further, developing the Nanoknee system. This innovative knee replacement technique allows you to return home just two hours after surgery – and walk with full weight-bearing on your repaired knee structure immediately. When you come in to see Dr. Ferro, you'll find his credentials are matched by his caring approach. He'll begin by educating you about your condition and explaining treatment options available. He will work with you to find the best choice for your lifestyle. Should surgery be required, Dr. Ferro is committed to the best treatments and technol-
ogies available for successful results. The compassion and knowledge these two providers offer couldn’t be more evident, and we are ecstatic to be able to offer their services to all of our current and future patients. LAURYN COOPER, PA-C Lauryn Cooper was born and raised on the Central Coast of California and is excited and honored to be providing care to the residents of San Luis Obispo and Kern counties. She graduated from Vanguard University of Southern California with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in pre-health sciences. She then attended PA school at Southern California Lauryn Cooper University of Health Sciences where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a master's degree in physician assistant studies. With an extensive background in physical therapy and athletic training, Cooper is knowledgeable and dedicated to providing her patients with the highest quality of care that Nanoknee has to offer.
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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T O P D O C T O R S
Special Advertisement Section
Sarabjeet Singh
MD FACC, FAHA, FACP, FSCAI T O P D O C T O R S
Dr. Sarabjeet Singh
DR. SARABJEET SINGH IS AN INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST AT CENTRIC HEALTH’S CENTRAL CARDIOLOGY MEDICAL CENTER IN BAKERSFIELD. For nearly two decades, he has earned his stellar reputation as a top cardiologist in Kern County through his commitment and passion for providing excellent and compassionate care, encompassing a broad variety of cardiology and peripheral vascular needs.
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He began his journey as a medical student with a burning desire to help patients at the age of 17, graduating at age 21 in 1999 from Calcutta University in India. He then went on to complete a rigorous three-year internal medicine residency program at Chaudhary Charan Singh University, where he realized he wanted to do more. Turning his focus to the United States to pursue his next level of training, he completed an internal medicine residency program at the University of Chicago School of Medicine affiliated hospitals in 2007. From here, Dr. Singh realized that nothing would bring him more fulfillment than devoting his life to saving lives from heart disease, so he made the decision to specialize in cardiovascular care. In 2010, Dr. Singh completed his cardiology fellowship at the University of Chicago and demonstrated outstanding commitment as he was chief fellow and clinical instructor, providing mentorship to those training under his lead. In 2011, Dr. Singh and his beautiful wife, Dr. Jasleen Duggal, endocrinologist, moved to Los Angeles, where he completed an additional fellowship in interventional cardiology at the prestigious Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UCLA. Here, he learned the life-saving techniques that he soon would bring to Bakersfield, which greatly impacted our community and saved many of our very own in Kern County. From his contributions to the medical community through multiple published works to his service as expert reviewer for renowned medical journals, Dr. Singh has significantly added his footprint in cardiology. His publications and reviewed works can be found in journals such as: • ABIM Board questions (Internal Medicine) • British Medical Journals (B.M.J.) Group • Clinical Cardiology • International Journal of Cardiology • Canadian Journal of Cardiology In pursuit of his passion to fight heart disease at the highest level as an interventional cardiologist, he still made time to cultivate his personal life. In 2005, Dr. Singh married Dr. Jasleen Duggal. Together, they eventually settled into beautiful Bakersfield in 2011 where they started their family. “I am honored to support Olivia’s Heart Project to prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) from taking one more life! l am committed to their effort of eradicating SCA, which is currently the leading cause of non-traumatic sudden death in children and young adults and usually the result of an undiagnosed cardiovascular disorder,” said Dr. Singh.
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Southern California Orthopedic Institute
T O P D O C T O R S
Southern California Orthopedic Institute’s surgeons and specialized medical staff strictly follow the latest and highest standards in patient safety and will take extra precautions. Additional patient screening processes will be enforced before scheduling and performing surgery. The practice will continue to adhere to the strict protocols they have in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in their offices. These protocols will extend to pre- and post-operative care in addition to the measures taken to keep operating rooms and equipment sterile. While Southern California Orthopedic Institute schedules patients for elective surgery as well as initial and follow-up appointments in their offices, its providers also offer telemedicine visits to provide remote consultation for bone, joint and muscle problems. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of Southern California Orthopedic Institute’s experts, please call (661) 437-3439.
FOR NEARLY 45 YEARS, WE’VE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF PROVIDING ORTHOPEDIC CARE TO THE PATIENTS AND COMMUNITIES OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AND ITS SURROUNDING AREAS. We are incredibly grateful for the trust you’ve placed in us and work hard every day to ensure we provide the exceptional orthopedic care you deserve. Please know that our team of surgeons and health care professionals is dedicated to taking care of you through this challenging time. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, our team is actively monitoring the situation, and we are making critical adjustments to the way we operate in an effort to protect our patients, staff and communities. Ensuring your health and safety and that of our valued staff is our highest priority.
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Southern California Orthopedic Institute is one of the largest private orthopedic practices on the West Coast, now providing expanded care access through its alliance with UCLA Health. The practice serves as the premier educator of orthopedic surgery techniques to surgeons around the world, and their doctors are a trusted care partner for professional, collegiate and high school athletes throughout the region. Along with its main headquarters in Van Nuys, the practice also has six satellite offices in the Los Angeles area, as well as an office in Bakersfield. Over 35 orthopedic specialists provide care in the following areas: ankle, back, elbow, foot, hand, hip, joint replacement, knee, neck, pain management, pediatrics, physical medicine and rehabilitation, regenerative medicine, shoulder, spine, sports medicine and wrist. For more information on Southern California Orthopedic Institute and its specialists, visit www.scoi.com, “like” Southern California Orthopedic Institute on Facebook or follow @SCOIOrthoNews on Twitter.
EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE. Meet Our Bakersfield Doctors Karl R. Balch, MD
A. Elizabeth BlozĂŠ, MD
Fellowship-Trained
Specializes in Nonsurgical Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the Nonsurgical Treatment of Musculoskeletal and Sports Related Injuries, and the Diagnosis and Treatment of Spinal and Peripheral Nerve Injuries
Specializes in the Hip and Knee, Joint Replacement, and Revision
Kamil Erfanian, MD
John L. Etcheverry, DPM
Fellowship-Trained
Specializes in Surgery of the Hand, Wrist, and Microvascular Surgery
Christopher D. Hamilton, MD
Specializes in the Medical and Surgical Treatment of the Foot and Ankle
Nickul S. Jain, MD
Fellowship-Trained
Fellowship-Trained
Specializes in Arthroscopic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Shoulder, Elbow, Knee, Sports Medicine, and Joint Replacement of the Shoulder and Knee
Jarrad A. Merriman, MD, MPH
Specializes in Orthopedic Spine Surgery and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Fadi S. Saied, DO
Fellowship-Trained
Fellowship-Trained
Specializes in Arthroscopic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Hip and Knee, Unicompartmental or Partial Knee Replacements, and Knee Arthroscopy for Torn Cartilage
Specializes in Sports Medicine With a Focus in Ankle, Hip, Knee, and Shoulder Care
Mark L. Schamblin, MD
Steven A. Schopler, MD
Fellowship-Trained
Fellowship-Trained
Specializes in Arthroscopic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Shoulder, Knee, and Elbow With a Special Interest in Sports Medicine and the Treatment of the Injured Athlete
Todd A. Shapiro, MD
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Scoliosis, Microsurgery of the Spine, Pediatric Orthopedics, Biomechanics, Spinal Devices and Implant Technology
David K. Wahba, MD
Fellowship-Trained
Fellowship-Trained
A Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon Specializing in Sports Medicine With Special Focus on Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
Specializes in Pain Management
Bakersfield
Southern California Orthopedic Institute 2400 Bahamas Drive, Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Appointments: (661) 328-5565 Southern California Orthopedic Institute complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
www.scoi.com
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Dr. Jasleen Duggal Endocrinologist
T O P D O C T O R S
These glands secrete hormones to regulate many bodily functions, including growth and metabolism. The two most common endocrine disorders are the thyroid — hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyriod nodules — and diabetes — Type 1 and Type 2 — which sometimes requires a pump. WHAT OTHER ENDOCRINE DISORDERS DO YOU TREAT? Some of the other disorders that we often treat are adrenal, pituitary, metabolic disorders, obesity and polycystic ovarian syndrome. WHEN SHOULD A DIABETIC MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH AN ENDOCRINOLOGIST? Type 1 diabetics should always be followed by a specialist; they most likely require a diabetic pump. Type 2 diabetics should be seen by a specialist when their sugars run high and they are uncontrolled. WHAT IS THYROID DISEASE? A thyroid disease is a medical condition impairing the function of the thyroid gland. Different thyroid diseases include thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. These diseases have a large range of symptoms and affect all ages.
Dr. Jasleen Duggal
DR. JASLEEN DUGGAL HAS BEEN PRACTICING IN BAKERSFIELD FOR CLOSE TO 10 YEARS. She is a Cedar Sinai fellow who came to the city of Bakersfield to help treat and improve the lives of our Kern County patients. With the help of her experienced physician’s assistants, Carlos Flores and Bruce Dains, they are able to meet the demands of the volume of endocrine patients in Kern County at the facility of Kern Endocrine Center. In 2018, she also became a member of Bakersfield Life's 20 Under 40 People to Watch. WHAT DOES AN ENDOCRINOLOGIST TREAT? The endocrine system is made up of a network of glands.
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IS YOUR OFFICE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS? Yes, our office is accepting new patients. We are an extremely busy office due to the high volume of endocrine patients and lack of endocrine doctors. We accept almost all insurance. You can call your insurance carrier to verify if we are a preferred provider. LASTLY, CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY? I am married to Dr. Sarabjeet Singh, who is a cardiologist at Central Cardiology Medical Center, and we are blessed with two wonderful children.
MORE INFORMATION Dr. Jasleen Duggal Kern Endocrine Center 3008 Sillect Ave., Suite 220 661-748-1999 www.jasleenduggalmd.com
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3008 Sillect Ave Suite 220, Bakersfield, CA 93308 4531 Buena Vista Ave Suite, 140 Bakersfield, CA 93311
info@jasleenduggalmd.com www.jasleenduggalmd.com
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The future is bright Changemakers improve Kern County in their own ways
When you're passionate about something, you go all in. For these people, it's more than that â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they're inspired to change the world one step at a time. Kern County is home to many brave and strong leaders. You might not know their faces or names, but you'll want to know their stories. Celebrated on these pages are 14 changemakers who are empowering the underserved and making Kern County a better place. By Ema Sasic and Julie Mana-ay Perez
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UNSPLASH.COM
Ulysis Baal Relief Shoppers founder These days, Ulysis Baal finds himself in the company of several elderly individuals, but he wouldn’t have it any other way, because it might save someone’s life. Going to the grocery store can be a luxury for senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals, who, in recent months, have had to avoid outings due to the coronavirus. Realizing how dangerous it might be for some, Baal decided to do the shopping for them. Through Relief Shoppers, Baal, and several other volunteers, shop for and deliver items to senior citizens. A delivery can be set up online or through phone. An individual provides a shopping list and selects a delivery time while volunteers handle the rest. Those utilizing the service can pay for groceries with EBT cards, cash or through services such as PayPal, Venmo or Zelle. Over the course of eight months, the clientele list has grown and around $20,000 worth of groceries have been purchased. It’s the hardest Baal has worked, he said, but without hesitation it’s the best thing he’s ever done.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ULYSIS BAAL
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Kalli Beckwith Urban farmer/entrepreneur Living a life full of health and wellness is important to Kalli Beckwith: she’s a Bakersfield native, co-owner to A3 Sports Performance, a health coach and urban farmer, to name a few. She met husband, Ryan, in San Francisco, where she pursued her master’s degree. Beckwith began a garden six months after giving birth to her youngest son and acknowledged eating organic food was expensive. From then on, Beckwith would begin the art of neglectful gardening and is now on her seventh growing season. Beckwith pumps out about 1,000 pounds of fresh food a year. Aside from creating a massive garden full of colorful foods, Beckwith combined her passion of fitness and performance, behavior analysis and growing food to forge a better path to a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. During the coronavirus pandemic in April, Beckwith and her husband were able to start a community garden at A3 where they gave athletes the opportunity to harvest their own foods. She also has plans to transform A3’s parking lot into an edible landscape paradise to showcase low maintenance gardening, urban food production and sustainable practices to help the environment. Beckwith hopes to continue to inspire youth and families to eat more fresh foods and encourage them to grow their own.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF KALLIE BECKWITH
Isaiah Crompton Community activist/Stop the Violence, Community Garden “Making a difference” is a term Isaiah Crompton has lived by most of his life. Crompton dedicated his life to helping his community in every way possible. He’s involved in Stop the Violence, two community gardens and has established a men’s home. Crompton grew up watching his parents take leadership roles in the community and said they are the reason why he does what he does today. Crompton partners with the Martin Luther King Community Collaborative and brings other organizations alongside them for the betterment of the community. One project is feeding the community with the community garden he established more than 20 years ago. Crompton and his team have distributed thousands of pounds of food in the last year and a half. All donations given to the community garden go back to the garden. Another project Crompton is a part of is Stop the Violence, a program that helps individuals through counseling or services to prevent violence in any way. At 63 years old, Crompton continues to wake up every morning and give back to his community. Crompton said he feels blessed to be a part of the work he does and looks forward to providing meals for the homeless and seniors and providing his service to others. He acknowledges there’s more work to do: he hopes to turn empty lots into walking parks, bring more grocery stores and add plenty of gardens to beautify the southeast side of Bakersfield.
PHOTO BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Kei Deragon and Sarah Noble Creative Crossing founders What started off as negativity in her own community was a chance for local artist Kei Deragon to turn art into a positive influence in her neighborhood. Deragon remembered being bothered by the effects of vandalism among the community and asked herself how she could make it better. With the help of a new friend and co-founder, Sarah Noble, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created Creative Crossing. Deragon and Nobleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission was to bring the community together through murals and make a beautiful Bakersfield. Since then, it has evolved into having other local artists work together to create a better representation of Bakersfield. Creative Crossing began its journey by beautifying the Oleander neighborhood and leaving a lasting impression on the community. A year after founding Creative Crossing, the artistic duo has invested $300,000 back into their neighborhoods in art value alone. The Creative Crossing team plans to expand to other parts of Bakersfield and build more unity in the community. Deragon and Noble also plan to continue working with other artists and bringing the community together through art.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF KEI DERAGON
Tiara King Community activist/Retrain the Night co-founder Tiara King is the kind of woman who wants to see change in the world. King is a local activist and co-founder of Retrain the Night, a program that seeks to help men in the community and prevent human trafficking by educating and a providing a resource for them. King grew up in Bakersfield and went to a historically black college and university in Missouri. She moved back to Bakersfield seven years ago, not really looking forward to it, but that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop her from becoming involved in the community for the better. King began working for the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center and helped individuals who are on parole for sex offenses by mandating a treatment program for them. She remembers looking at all the case files and wanting to get on the other side of the problem. King looked for volunteer opportunities and worked with the Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Magdalene Hope and Global Family Care. After seeing new girls come in Magdalene Hope every night, King knew there was more to be done. She co-founded Retrain the Night alongside Kristin Smith and decided to put the focus on the men by educating offenders and helping them understand the damage done to their victims. The program helps restore families and change the minds and hearts of sexual offenders. King understood she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change the world, but wanted to change Bakersfield. King is inspired by her daughter and her mentors.
PHOTO BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Jessica Knott SMILE You’re Alive founder If there’s one thing Jessica Knott is known for, it’s empowerment. Knott is originally from Long Beach, but moved to Bakersfield at 10 years old. She jumps back and forth between the two cities for her family. Knott describes her timeline as unusual — she attended Bakersfield College and the University of Phoenix studying communications. And in 2009, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Not only did Knott stay strong for her family, but she was on a mission to set an example of goodness. While being treated in the hospital, Knott began a nonprofit called SMILE (See More in Life Everyday) You’re Alive, where her mission was to bring smiles to other patients and make them feel better instead of feeling broken down. She founded a passion for youth empowerment, and over time Knott wanted to provide resources and therapy for people within her nonprofit. Last year, Knott also created a project within the community to write powerful messages in girls’ school restrooms to empower and help them through their struggles. Knott wants make a difference for those girls in school because powerful and positive messages can impact their lives. Knott also has a YouTube channel called Let the Girls Talk, which is a roundtable discussion of young women from diverse backgrounds coming together to inspire teenage girls. Knott is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program and plans to open up her own affordable private practice in therapy one day, offering her services to parents and kids.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA KNOTT
Thomas Morgan Former Kern County sheriff’s deputy The road to redemption is something Thomas Morgan had to experience. In 1997, the then-sheriff’s deputy and deputy trainee responded to a call in the area where gunshots were fired. After one of the suspects fled, Morgan chased him and soon after was shot in the neck by a 410 Derringer and left to die. Morgan miraculously survived. After his injury, he retired in 1999 as a senior deputy sheriff. Morgan knew continuing to be angry at his shooter wouldn’t help anyone around him, including his wife, who struggled the most. Two decades after the incident, moving on meant coming face-to-face with the person who almost took his life: Jason Samuel. He decided to open a line of communication with the Victim Offender Dialogue, an organization that helps victims and offenders reconcile to encourage healing. After exchanging many letters and VOD visits, the Morgans were able to move on and forgive Samuel, eventually advocating for his release. That nearly fatal incident ended up leading to a friendship today, and the two even text daily. Morgan continued a career in law and enjoys helping people and making a difference in their lives.
PHOTO BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Krystal Raynes Student trustee on Cal State University Board of Trustees Being the first of anything can be a daunting task with plenty of pressure on one’s shoulders. But it can also be a chance to advocate for underrepresented groups and be a champion for peers. For Cal State Bakersfield student Krystal Mae Raynes, who is the first CSUB student to serve on the CSU Board of Trustees, she’s a voice for many who have go through tough challenges. Raynes was appointed to the board by Gov. Gavin Newsom in September. Prior to having a seat at the CSU table, the computer science major has held multiple campus leadership positions, such as interim vice president of Legislative Affairs, vice president of University Affairs, and director of legislative affairs for Associated Students Inc. As a student trustee, she can express what it’s like to be a student in today’s times, and how board decisions affect her and her peers. Immediately upon her appointment, she decided that she would advocate for the least heard/ listened to people and areas in the state, which includes the Central Valley. She shared with trustees that her upbringing was never stable, and just this past summer was homeless due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She’s not alone in her story, but by making trustees aware of what students are facing, it might make many think twice about their votes. Over the course of her two-year appointment, Raynes hopes to address issues concerning food insecurity, internet connectivity, technology availability, homelessness, mental health and degree attainment in the Central Valley and other parts of the state. Many high school students believe there’s no way their families can afford college tuition, but Raynes, a first-generation college student, wants to be an example to all those out there and encourage them to pursue their educational dreams.
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PHOTO BY EMA SASIC
Pastor Robin Robinson Director of CityServe community development and church engagement Step into CityServe’s massive warehouse, and you can see the amount of good that is waiting to serve communities in Kern County. At the helm is Pastor Robin Robinson, who has dedicated her life to helping others. Robinson’s journey began on a complicated path. At age 16, after facing heartbreak from her parents’ divorce years prior, she turned to drugs and alcohol. For 10 years she lived a destructive lifestyle, she said, until she decided it was time for a change. Church and God saved her life, she said, and after spending years living hard, she committed herself to living hard for the good of her community. She has done everything from starting a bus ministry, being a children’s pastor and serving 31 years as a pastor at Canyon Hills Church. For the last two years, as director of CityServe community development and church engagement, Robinson has had a chance to see her giving spirit impact more people than she ever thought possible. CityServe is a collaborative network of community organizations and churches connected to enable transformation. Partners send like-new returned merchandise or overproduction goods like food and household items, and these items equip small churches to minister to their neighborhoods and communities. Local churches are the key to reach into neighborhoods where food-insecure families may be living, afraid to ask for help. Through help, hope and support, churches can be a trusted source for families, Robinson said. More than 120 churches are connected to CityServe, Robinson explained, which means the potential to help thousands of individuals throughout the county. No matter rain, heat or pandemic, CityServe volunteers have been working to give back to those who need the most help.
PHOTO BY EMA SASIC
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Jay Tamsi President/CEO Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, co-founder Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force Jay Tamsi is used to giving back, particularly after seeing his parents set great examples. His father’s work in the community mattered to him, and he did not expect anything in return other than to make a difference for others, while his mother instilled in him the importance of selflessness when it comes to helping others. As the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce president/CEO, Tamsi has worked with individuals in the community by providing personal and professional opportunities for members through leadership programs, government relations, business academies and educational opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The life lessons and experiences he has gained thus far came in handy for the Delano native who, as best as he could, would help Kern County’s Latino population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the inception of the Kern County Latino COVID-19 Task Force, which Tamsi is a co-founder of, the group’s mission has been to save lives through outreach, education and awareness to find solutions to the disproportionate social and economic impacts of COVID-19 on the Latino community. As case numbers were increasing and state regulations for the economy to continue to operate were changing, the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Kern County Public Health Department and a group of 30 dedicated and prominent individuals throughout Kern County saw a need to outreach to the Hispanic and Latino community, especially in the outlying and rural communities. This fall, the Hispanic community made up 61 percent of positive cases in Kern County, he said. The group found ways to communicate with the Hispanic and Latino community and encourage them to get tested. The task force also focused on outreach to youth and farmworkers, created a strategic campaign in English and Spanish through various media platforms and assisted businesses and employees while providing mental and behavioral health support. The work is still far from over, and the challenges associated with educating and reaching as many individuals as possible are felt, but Tamsi and his colleagues are determined to provide free testing sites to all members of the community and educate them on how to best take an active role in their health during the pandemic.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF JAY TAMSI
Bloom artists include, from left, Jennifer Williams-Cordova, Brandon Thompson and Deidre Hathor.
Brandon Thompson Mural artist Sometimes you have to think big in order to make a change in your community, and mural artist Brandon Thompson sees opportunity with each wall, corridor and stretch of concrete in town. Thompson’s art has made Bakersfield a brighter place — whether it’s a mural for a business such as the one he collaborated with Jorge Guillen for Martin’s Meats, an artwalk addition or a piece for a local exhibit. He’s been an artist all his life, but he became serious about pursuing it full-time in 2009. Since then, his art has taken on various shapes, sizes and mediums, but one thing remains consistent: He wants his art to inspire change. With his latest mural, Bloom, located underneath the Beale Street overpass in east Bakersfield, he hopes to “change the face” and “bring life” to an area people often avoid. That part of town, he said, has always “needed the most love,” and a collaboration with City Councilman Andrae Gonzales could inspire more people “to walk this way instead of walking around it.” Bloom will feature six to eight handpicked east Bakersfield girls of color playing, reading and experiencing life surrounded by greenery and beams of light representing the sun at various part of the day — from sunrise to sunset. It’s a message of empowerment to the girls and women of east Bakersfield to be unapologetically themselves and, like the flowers in the springtime, they have the potential to bloom and aspire for greatness. Thompson is collaborating with Jennifer Williams-Cordova and Deidre Hathor on the project.
PHOTO BY EMA SASIC
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Melina Thorpe Director of Clinical and Regulatory Operations at KKM Global Healthcare Melina Thorpe surrounds her life with her passion — helping cancer patients and survivors find resources to assist their journey. Thorpe, who is originally from Buffalo, N.Y., moved to Bakersfield in 2015 and has a background as an oncology nurse. She’s also an 11year breast cancer survivor, so women’s health and education has always been important to her. When Thorpe was diagnosed with breast cancer, she said she felt blessed because she worked in the health care industry and she had access to good resources. She also acknowledged that other women don’t have that same access, so Thorpe decided to build that bridge. Aside from her day-to-day job, she supports the Young Survivors Coalition and is also an honorary member. Thorpe started a Cancer Support Community in Bakersfield, which will bring women together and let them talk about how they’re navigating their cancer journey. The group was halted when the coronavirus pandemic hit, but she plans to continue the launch of the organization when the pandemic is over. A cancer diagnosis is life changing for many people and maneuvering your way through it is difficult, so Thorpe wanted to help others find resources and support them through their journey. Thorpe said helping people inspires her to be the leader she is today.
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PHOTO BY JULIE MANA-AY PEREZ
Arleana Waller ShePower Global Ambassador, Circle of Life Development Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MLKcommUNITY Initiative, The Frink Firm Helping her community has always come naturally to Arleana Waller, and, most importantly, from the heart. As a child, her parents, Willie and Loretta Frink, set an example to give back to the community. After she moved back to Bakersfield 10 years ago, she noticed gaps in equity, justice, economics and inclusion. Soon, she decided to pave her own path and find ways to help her fellow citizens. ShePower Leadership was inspired her late niece, Brooke Frink. It was in that moment of loss that she realized girls, especially Black and brown girls, needed more access, opportunities, mentoring, validation and safe spaces to be authentically who they are and to grow into leaders themselves. ShePower fueled the Circle of Life Development Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MLKcommUNITY Initiative, which has focused its effort on revitalizing southeast Bakersfield. Partnerships have been created with more than 40 organizations and churches to address various problems, such as food insecurities, education inequality, transportation inequality and the housing gap. The group has given more than 600,000 pounds of food, won a $200,000 grant for transportation equity engagement and planning and built an education plan to minimize the prison pipeline for low-performing students. Waller has also worked with her company, The Frink Firm, to address the affordable housing gap in Kern County.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ARLEANA WALLER
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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GO & DO
Vincent and Yasmin Rivera
Finding a way to forever Bakersfield couple marries during the pandemic By Julie Mana-ay Perez
WEDDINGS ARE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENTS IN A PERSON'S LIFE, BUT SOMETIMES A PANDEMIC CAN RUIN THAT GLORIOUS DAY.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, many couples had to either halt their dream wedding or think of an alternative way to get hitched. For Vincent and Yasmin Rivera, the pandemic did not get in their way of tying the knot. The duo made it official on Oct. 9, but the road to the altar was not easy. With the county on lockdown, many of their planned events had to be rearranged at the last minute. “All the restriction nonsense was kind of stressful because there was a lot of back and forth with the venue. Our honey-
moon plans were dashed upon the rocks because we were planning to go to Europe,” said Vincent Rivera. As altering the wedding planning became worrying, the two saw their wedding day as the light to continue their journey. “It was a hopeful time and something to look forward to. It was a shining moment in the year for us — to redeem the year,” he said. Vincent, 34, from Taft, and Yasmin, 28, from Bakersfield, met in 2014 at a local gym. Soon after the pair started talking, they went on their first date to see a movie and instantly felt a connection. “We dated for a while and there was much deliberation for me. I had a daughter already and wasn’t in a hurry or anything. » See more of Vincent and Yasmin on PAGE 58.
PHOTOS BY ADRIANA ALVAREZ PHOTOGRAPHY
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Go & Do
The newly wedded Rivera couple cuts their wedding cake.
We took our time to know each other,” he said. “I knew I wanted to propose when I asked my daughter how she felt about it and she gave me her approval.” In April 2019, the couple and Vincent’s daughter took a family trip to Hawaii, where Vincent popped the question. When their wedding day arrived in October at The Gardens of Monji, Vincent and Yasmin Rivera’s plans came to fruition, but with some modifications. “My family and friends were all comfortable being together, we were being more precautious but normal in retrospect to everything going on,” Yasmin Rivera said. The Riveras planned to have their celebrations indoors and outdoors, but because of COVID-19 restrictions, their wedding was relocated to the outdoor area. Vincent and Yasmin Rivera also said the venue and vendors involved in the wedding tried to make it everything it could be. Fewer than 100 guests attended their outdoor wedding, where chairs were spaced out to maintain social distancing and guests had the option to wear their masks. They said one of the things that got them through planning their wedding during the pandemic was being with each other. “A wedding is wonderful and a great celebration of your love, but it also boils down to who you’re with and who you’re spending that time with,” Yasmin Rivera said.
Vincent and Yasmin Rivera pictured with Vincent's daughter.
“It’s not anything that needs a time restraint. We have the rest of our lives to get married.” Though the pandemic has taken away some joy of going out, both Vincent and Yasmin Rivera said they looked at the situation in a positive light. “It gave the three of us the opportunity to spend more time together without going on all these trips and doing things at home. We were able to appreciate each other,” said Yasmin Rivera.
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Go & Do
What’s in your at-home spa kit?
Easy and accessible ways to tap into your inner wellness By Julie Mana-ay Perez
One of the common ways to calm your inner peace is to listen to your favorite playlist. When I’m going through an emotional mood, some of my favorite artists are Explosions in the Sky, Vampire Weekend, The Bleachers and James Newton Howard.
WRITE IT DOWN
Another common suggestion is to carry a journal and jot down your thoughts. You can treat this like a diary or even an idea journal. There are tons of journal apps, if you prefer being near your phone. Apps like Day One, Memento, Grid Diary and Five Minute Journal are a few popular mobile applications accessible on your phone. Or you can go the traditional route with a pen and paper.
TREAT YOURSELF
MOST OF THE ITEMS YOU NEED FOR A PROJECT NEED SOME KIND OF KIT. THE SAME THING GOES WHEN YOU’RE TRYING TO MEND AND TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. With a pandemic still
looming, self care has become more important than ever. When it comes to stress, anxiety or depression, the key to shift your mentality is to focus on activities that impact your inner peace. Enter the at-home spa kit, a collection of palpable items that make you feel good. Everyone’s tool kit might look a little different depending on the activities you enjoy, but no matter what piques your interest, these things will help you connect with your wellness to a healthy lifestyle.
Essential spa kit SKIN CARE
I find joy in having a skin care routine. My routine is excessive, but for beginners who want to feel fabulous in their bare skin, these are some great items to have: • Herbivore face oil • Kiel’s clearly corrective dark spot solution • Fresh lotus anti-aging daily moisturizer • Fresh kombucha antioxidants facial treatment essence • Youth to the People superfood antioxidant cleanser
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January 2021
Whether it’s food or luxury items, treat yourself more often. You deserve to be rewarded for the things you do. Take yourself out to dinner, buy yourself that one thing you’ve always wanted if you can afford it and make yourself feel loved by you.
ENHANCE THE SMELL OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
One of my favorite daily things to do is to turn on my candle warmer inside my room. It’s self-care for me. Invest in a candle warmer or an oil diffuser. There are a few inexpensive options at local retail stores. We use these scents to connect us to our favorite places and that alone sends us inner peace.
FIND YOUR CALM
There are a number of ways to destress, like creating art digitally on your device or using an art tool. If that’s not your speed, you can download Headspace, Calm or Aura to get you into the right mindset.
FIND TIME FOR A BATH
Believe it or not, relaxing in a hot bathtub can help you destress as it eases tension in your muscles. Add something fun to your bath like bath bombs, epsom salts for smooth skin or any bath oils.
GREAT KERN COUNTY
At 18, Liberty Roche decided to head to Dallas on her own to pursue her singing career. Today, the singer/songwriter has her first single out.
‘Going solo’
Bakersfield native Liberty Roche finds her groove with first single By Ema Sasic
IT’S HARD TO EXPLAIN HOW MUCH A DIVORCE IMPACTS ANY INDIVIDUAL FAMILY OR CHILD, BUT LIBERTY ROCHE FOUND THE RIGHT WORDS WHEN SHE WROTE HER FIRST SONG AT AGE 8.
During her parents’ separation, the Bakersfield native discovered how difficult it was for her to process her emotions. With her head spinning, heart breaking and the life she knew changing, music was there to help her through it all. “I was using it to cope the same way people journal or paint,” Roche explained. It’s no surprise that today, at 18, the Bakersfield native has decided to pursue singing full-time. For the past year, almost day in and day out, she has been songwriting and training with Septien
Entertainment Group in Dallas. Alumni from this veritable creative boot camp include Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez and Kacey Musgraves, each dominating music charts and arenas. More than just wanting to see her name in lights and album covers — though that doesn’t sound bad either — Roche wants her music to touch listeners’ hearts and make them feel like they’re understood.
EARLY START
Ever since she can remember, Roche said she was always drawn to music. At her grandparents' wedding anniversary, » See more Personality on PAGE 62.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LIBERTY ROCHE
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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Great Kern County she grabbed the microphone and sang “Amazing Grace” in front of 300 guests. If she wasn’t singing, listening to music or writing her own songs gave her solace and relief from normal life stresses. “I think everybody kind of knew I had a special place in my heart for music,” Roche said. She recalled that from an early age she told people she wanted to be a pop star. “They’d be like, ‘Oh, you’re so sweet,’” she said, but she knew it was more than just a childhood dream. As she started songwriting — she still has photos of her first few songs, riddled with misspellings but full of messages to see the beauty in life — it didn’t take long before her musical talents caught wind in the family. At 12, her father enrolled her in singing lessons and soon she performed gigs here and there around Bakersfield. For a few years, Roche lost some of that passion that music gave her. Performing gigs around town made her happy, but she wasn’t sure what her next steps would be to launch a singing career. She thought she would have to give it all up, finish her senior year at Bakersfield Christian High School and move on to college. Life truly changed for her when she received an invitation in August 2019 to spend a week at Septien Entertainment Group.
SPARKS FLY
“
Roche said the owner of the group, who coincidentally went to high school with her father, invited her to try the program out for a week. For roughly 10 hours a day, she would train and write songs, and by the end of the week, she would go back home and continue her life. Easy enough. On the contrary, “I remember calling my dad at the airport on my way back, and I was literally in tears saying, ‘I cannot leave this place, I have to be here,’” Roche recalled. “It absolutely changed my entire view on music, changed my entire view on my career. It resparked the passion for me in music,” Roche added. His father was happy for her, of course, but wasn’t sure how they could make staying there realistic. But soon enough, she received an invitation that was too good to be true: If she could move
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January 2021
A scene from the music video for Liberty Roche's first single, "Tattoo."
If I get to impact anyone or connect with anyone, that's all I want to do with my music. I want to make a connection with people's hearts and make sure people realize they're loved and that there's somebody who understands what they're going through. Not everyone gets these opportunities... and I never want to take them for granted." — Liberty Roche
to Dallas in three weeks, the final spot for the boot camp would be hers. All doors opened for her — finding a way to continue her education at Bakersfield Christian High School and securing a place to live in Dallas — and before she could talk herself out of leaving her family and friends and living on her own, she was pursuing her childhood dream. Roche is training with instructors and musicians for six to seven hours a day, five days a week. Everything from songwriting, guitar lessons, vocal lessons and stage presence is covered. “The first chunk of the year has just been sharpening my craft. I didn’t release anything until just recently because I really wanted to find myself as an artist, find my path, find my honey spot and figure out exactly who Liberty is and what I want to be and what I want to represent and what I want to sing,” Roche said. “Once I figured that out and I felt like I had sharpened my craft and felt super confident in what I had to share, that’s when I started dropping music and putting it out there.”
‘GOING SOLO’
Roche’s first single, “Tattoo,” focuses on her big move from Bakersfield to Dallas and what it felt like to go from childhood to adulthood almost overnight. While family members and close friends encouraged her to pursue her dream, others weren’t so supportive, and Roche detailed the judgment she endured over the past year as well. Lyrics such as, “All I see are red lights, I put them in my rearview, I don’t need them in my life,” and people telling her she’s “wasting my time” show Roche’s vulnerability during this time period. The single is in part named “Tattoo” because Roche said the way people were labeling her felt like they were permanently tattooed on her. “When you make a big life change ... there’s a lot of love and a lot of criticism. It doesn’t matter what industry, it’s what comes with people following their dreams,” she said. “I had to leave my high school and deal with a lot of people telling me I was not smart for doing it.
They thought I wasn’t going to succeed, and I felt so misunderstood. I spent a few months having to work through the hurt it caused me.” But as she’s worked on her craft, confidence and pride has emerged. “All I need is paper, a mic and a booth. Give me a stage, some lights and a crew. Tonight I’m leaving, yeah I’m going solo, if you start missing me you can look at photos,” she sings, telling all the haters that she doesn’t need their negativity. Since releasing “Tattoo,” Roche has heard from others who could relate to the criticism. That’s exactly what she hoped her music would do: have others feel like someone understands what they’re going through. Roche said artist Sasha Sloan, who is honest and vulnerable through her songwriting, inspires her to do the same. There are plenty more songs to be written and sung for Roche, and she’s excited to show fans all aspects of her creativity, but one thing that won’t change is the messaging she puts out. “If I get to impact anyone or connect with anyone, that’s all I want to do with my music. I want to make a connection with people’s hearts and make sure people realize they’re loved and that there’s somebody who understands what they’re going through,” Roche said. “Not everyone gets these opportunities ... and I never want to take them for granted."
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Bakersfield Matters
Finding the light amid darkness Ways to stay mentally fit in a new year with same old battle By Lisa Kimble SHOW OF HANDS, WHO IS READY TO KICK 2020, ARGUABLY THE LONGEST YEAR OF OUR LIVES, TO THE CURB? This
time last year we didn’t see the COVID-19 freight train barreling toward us. We were preparing to ring in the year, optimistic that it would gift us the good health we had taken for granted. Twelve months later, here we are, about to usher in 2021, still grappling with the pandemic, trying to find light amid the darkest time this nation has ever experienced. As the health crisis drags on, experts say tending to our mental wellness is every bit as important as taking care of our physical selves. “We are experiencing something most have never experienced before and terminology being used, like ‘lockdown’ and ‘curfew’ are very triggering for many people,” said Dr. Jasmeet Kaur Bains, medical director for Dignity Health Medical Foundation. “It is important to be sensitive to trigger words. Humans were created to interact, communicate, and human touch can mean so many things.” “We are all learning this together. This can draw us closer. Navigating it with someone is important,” said clinical psychologist Dr. Dean Haddock, who suggests scheduling a Zoom meeting for the whole family every week or every few days. Experts also recommend holding yourself accountable by keeping a daily log of the amount of sleep you had, what you ate, your feelings and a list of people you talked to. “Separate the work part of your house from other areas. With increased time at home, explore new or old hobbies, learn a new language, catch up on some fun reading or learn how to cook,” Dr. Bains added. Her greatest advice is the easiest and doesn’t cost a thing: smiling. “Studies show waking up and seeing yourself smile in the mirror helps jumpstart your body and sets the tone for the rest of the day. I challenge everyone to do so and take it one extra step by trying to do your best to see that smile reciprocated on someone else that day.” Experts also suggest heavier doses of compassion, for yourself and others. As for those resolutions, keep making them! “New Year’s resolutions have always been a way for people to spend time identifying things they would like to bring awareness to in their lives. They don’t have to change, but the way we implement them might need some creative thinking,” Dr. Bains said. “Every crisis has its own opportunities,” Dr. Haddock said. “Schedule your time differently and what is important now.” Look at current hardships as a pathway to
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“
Separate the work part of your house from other areas. With increased time at home, explore new or old hobbies, learn a new language, catch up on some fun reading or learn how to cook." —Dr. Jasmeet Kaur Bains, medical director for Dignity Healthy Medical Foundation
peace, Dr. Bain advises. “Many people are watching you and often look to you for inspiration more than you may ever know. Cherish that and use it as a way to empower your community through your creativity and innovation.” Opinions expressed in this column are those of Lisa Kimble.
UNSPLASH.COM
Great Kern County
The AG Life
FARMS Leadership helps students gain hands-on experience By Julie Mana-ay Perez
THE FARMS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM COMES FROM THE CENTER FOR LAND-BASED LEARNING WHERE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE INTRODUCED TO FIELDS IN AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN THE FUTURE.
Students from the FARMS Leadership program out on a field day.
“
Kern FARMS Leadership Coordinator Romi Wattenbarger said the program is designed to expose youth to real-world opportunities and gain skills, knowledge and higher education. The program partners with agriculture companies in Kern County and teaches them the fundamentals of leadership and their specialized field. “We went to a dairy in Visalia last year and they took us through the process. Students saw how the milking was done, toured the facility and asked questions about what they do,” she said. Wattenbarger said FARMS Leadership doesn’t have to target students particularly interested in agriculture or environmental science, but it opens the door to future career opportunities for them when they enter college. “We take students to these places and help them interact with partnerships that can help them in the long run,” she said. The students in the program get to receive hands-on experience, whether there’s a pandemic or not. “The goal is to get these students involved in the agriculture community, hoping they’ll grasp the idea of it. There’s so much agriculture here and hope that it gives them the opportunity to pursue it when they head to college. A program like this gives them life skills, interview skills and confidence in public speaking,” she said. Though FARMS Leadership is just one program, the Center for Land-Based Learning houses the Student and Landowner Education and Watershed Stewardship program, which engages high school students in habitat restoration through a series of hands-on field days, and Caring for our Watersheds, which empowers students to imagine, develop and create solutions in their local watersheds. Wattenbarger also said students get a chance to form strong relationships with one another by going on field day trips to other facilities. “Students can join every year and they also keep that connection when they do graduate,” she said. “Our alumni also help them with job shadowing. The program creates a lifetime of friendships and helps them later on.” Though some after school programs are not running right now due to the pandemic, Wattenbarger said the program continues to find ways to function and be there for their students. “We’re doing our learning through Zoom and we’re PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROMI WATTENBARGER
The goal is to get these students involved in the agriculture community, hoping they'll grasp the idea of it. There's so much agriculture here and hope that it gives them the opportunity to pursue it when they head to college." —Romi Wattenbarger, Kern FARMS Leadership Coordinator
Students from the FARMS Leadership program out on a field day.
doing the same thing. I’ll go to the partners and I will pick up these hands-on kits and drop them off to our students,” she said. For one of their virtual field day trips, Wattenbarger picked up materials from Columbine Vineyards in Delano and dropped them off to students to begin their learning. “They gave us different types of grapes and a refractometer to measure the sugar content in a grape to determine if they pick them or not,” she said. Functioning through Zoom, Wattenbarger offers the students a 20- to 30-minute leadership lesson, practicing interviews and reviewing resumes to continue their core goal: preparing them for the future. FARMS Leadership currently runs 16 programs in California from Sacramento to Fresno, San Joaquin, Tulare, Kern County and more. “We’re going to continue the field days via Zoom. The partnerships are helpful for the students so they can continue the program and figure out what they want to do with their lives,” she said. www.BakersfieldLife.com
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History
Bakersfield Rescue Mission Serving those in their time of need By Julie Plata
COMPASSION, GENEROSITY AND HOPE — THESE THREE WORDS INSPIRE THOSE WHO MAKE IT THEIR MISSION TO HELP EASE THE BURDEN OF MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WHO ARE DOWN ON THEIR LUCK.
When the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, now known as The Mission at Kern County, first opened its doors in 1951, there was no way to foresee how bright its beacon of hope would shine for almost 70 years and counting. The driving force behind the establishment of the rescue mission was Rev. Alonzo M. Heath, who also served as its superintendent for 25 years. On Nov. 3, 1951, it was reported in The Bakersfield Californian that the new Bakersfield Rescue Mission was incorporated under the guidance of the Fresno Rescue Mission. Rev. Heath was able to bring this much-needed facility to Bakersfield with the help of the community. He recalled in the April 23, 1963, Californian the night of Sept. 12, 1951, when a group of men from the Fresno Rescue Mission met at a local hotel with some Bakersfield businessmen. He laid out his plan and hoped for the best. The result, before the meeting even ended, was $1,200 in pledges to help get the mission started. An additional $500 was later donated by an Edison farmer. The Bakersfield Rescue Mission’s first facility was located at 1221 20th St. in a building that measured 80-by25 feet. Not very big, but it was a start and it did not stop them from feeding and sheltering those in need. Operating with donated furniture and equipment, the mission served 4,200 meals prepared with donated food during its first two months of operation. Within its first 10 years, the Bakersfield Rescue Mission received support from more than 60 Kern County churches of various Protestant denominations. Each week the churches would rotate in offering nightly programs and services. Continuing to depend solely on donations, in the same April 23, 1963, article, Heath also stated that the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, at that time, was the only one in California that did not receive funding from the state. All food and clothing were donated by churches and organizations, and as Heath pointed out, “We haven’t bought a sack of potatoes in 11 years.” Realizing the need for more space, the mission’s board of directors approved a plan to acquire a larger space and the mission moved to a new facility in July 1962. Located at
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January 2021
In this file photo, Rev. Alonzo Heath receives a $25,000 check for the Bakersfield Rescue Mission from the Ben H. and Gladys Arkelian Foundation from attorney Henry C. Mack Jr.
In this file photo, the entrance to the Bakersfield Rescue Mission.
725 E. 21st St., the converted hotel offered 7,600 feet of usable floor space. Additionally, on Jan. 1, 1963, the remaining mortgage balance of $5,500 was paid off and then burned during a ceremonial potluck. In March 1970, the Bakersfield Rescue Mission opened a new facility on the corner of Beale Avenue and Sumner Street. Known as “the Corner of Hope,” the new facility provided shelter for 60 men. The East 21st Street location was then converted to a family shelter. The Mission at Kern County continues to offer meals and shelter, as well as education and religious services because, as Rev. Heath stated in The Californian on Dec. 21, 1968, “A man also has a soul which needs nourishment, you might say.”
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTOS
Great Kern County
How Bakersfield
1 2
3
are you?
4
See the answers at
5 6
9
7
bakersfield.com/
8
bakersfield-life
10 11 12
ACROSS
13
2 This famous foodie 14
spotlighted eight
Bakersfield restaurants on the Food Network.
15
3 The movie "Herbie: Fully Loaded" shot a 16
scene at this road
located in Tehachapi's vast wind farms.
17
8 This was ranked Kern County’s top agricultural product in 2019.
18
15 The title of Mae
Saunders’ column in The
The January Puzzle DOWN
Bakersfield Californian during World War II. 16 Kern Country produces this product that cars and other
1
The film "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" shot a scene at this location. The scene consists of Rey
4
This was the 20th campus to be constructed in the CSU system.
5
Reported in The Bakersfield Californian this year, Kern County saw theft that valued at $20,000
6
This junior college began classes on Sept. 5, 1922, and its first class consisted of only 10 stu-
7
She became the first female pilot and only one of six in the entire state to earn her transport pilot
School.
9
The original dormitories at CSUB are named after this popular film series.
18 This establishment
10
This team was established in 1941 before it changed its name to the Bakersfield Blaze.
and Finn meeting, followed by being chased by First Order troops on Jakku.
from this product. dents.
products need.
17 He is a former American football
quarterback who played in the NFL and attended Stockdale High
license and led the Bakersfield chapter of the Ninety Nines.
has been family owned
11 This CSUB geology assistant professor arranged for NASA to send moon rock samples for her
and operated since
12
candies, chocolates and
students to study.
This local event was named one of the best holiday lights event in the West by the Los Angeles
Times in 2016.
1909 and makes quality ice cream.
13 This established championed the Bakersfield Sound, the twangy, feisty, Fender Telecaster-powered country music made famous by the likes of Buck Owens, Merle Haggard and many others.
14
This Bakersfield resident was one of the first two students selected to go to Bakersfield’s first
sister city, Wakayama, Japan, in 1965.
www.BakersfieldLife.com
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