®
February 2014
Ag and oil families that built Kern County
bakersfieldlife.com
New Food Dudes hit
J’s PLACE
RANKIN RANCH marks 150 years Meet the
COBBLER KING
$3.95
Men in the great outdoors Duck hunter Jeff Thompson
2
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
THE
3 QUESTIONS
YOU MUST ASK A LAW FIRM When choosing a law firm for a serious injury or wrongful death case, you must determine if they have the know-how and experience to represent you. Before you hire a law firm, make sure you know the answers to these 3 critical questions.
The 3 questions to ask any law firm that you are considering hiring:
1
2 (661) 323-1400 www.rodriguezlaw.net
How many jury trials have you done? Many law firms that claim to be experienced have not actually tried many cases in court. These firms may settle a case for less than it’s worth; they’re afraid to fight it out in court because they just don’t have the experience.
How many multi-million dollar jury verdicts have you won? Going to court and winning in court aren’t necessarily the same thing. A law firm must be prepared, willing and have the experience to fight a case in court…and win.
2020 Eye Street Bakersfield CA 93301 @DRodriguezLaw @ DRodriguezLaw D
Rodriguez & Associates has done over 160 jury trials.
Rodriguez & Associates has won more multi-million dollar verdicts than any firm in the southern San Joaquin Valley, and has also won the single largest personal injury trial verdict ever in southern San Joaquin Valley history.
3 How many cases does your firm have right now? Many law firms take on too many cases just to settle them –for far less than the cases are worth– just to make a quick buck. These firms won’t take the time to give your case the attention that it deserves.
Rodriguez & Associates always keeps a case-to-lawyer ratio that ensures that each and every case gets the full attention it deserves, and we’re prepared to take each case all the way to trial.
Rodriguez & Associates • 2020 Eye Street • Bakersfield CA 93301 • 661-323-1400 • Toll free 800-585-9262 • www.rodriguezlaw.net
F E A T U R E S February 2014
The Men’s Issue Celebrate the men in our city. Hear how four local men — a rock climber, fisherman, hunter and mountain biker — relish the great outdoors Page 68. Learn about the man behind the highway — Alfred Harrell, that is Page 18. There’s a reason why they call a dog man’s best friend. Meet a Yorkiepoo and his owner Page 21.
Darlyn Baker, RN - Owner
ASSISTED CARE Personal Assistance Hospital Sitting Companionship Light Housekeeping Bathing Shopping Preparing Meals ...and much more!
Marc Schiffhauer: Mountain biker on a quest to find the perfect trail.
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
Celebrating 19 Years of Caring!
HOME HEALTH RNs/LVNs Physical Therapists Home Health Aides Wound/Ostomy Care
Ag & Oil
FACILITY STAFFING Senior Placement Services
Screened * Bonded * Insured The only RN & family owned provider in Kern County!
Call Today! (661)
395-1700
mybakersfieldhealthcare.com. 6
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Many of the companies in these industries were started by local families generations ago. Meet some of the ones who still stand today Page 78. Get to know Les Clark, of the Independent Oil Producers’ Agency — a likeable oilman who is legendary in local circles for his down-home wit Page 114. Learn about the job of a local Aera Energy geologist Page 118, what brought an Italian to Bakersfield to work for Oxy Page 59, and the most interesting stops along North Chester Avenue in Oildale Page 112.
The Holmes brothers: Third generation oil family.
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
The lifeblood of our county, we highlight the people involved in these allimportant industries.
RNs, LVNs, CNAs
D E P A R T M E N T S February 2014
13 32
Up Front Bakersfield Matters
88 Business Profiles 96 Pastimes 100 Home and Garden 104 History 108 In My Closet 110 Inside Story 112 Streets of Bakersfield
Page 34 34 38 40 42 46 52 54 59
Food Dudes Food and Wine Cooking with Chef Robert Foodie Entertainment Hometown Hero On the Road Why I Live Here
Page 60 60 62 66 86
All-Star Athlete Talk of the Town For a Cause Our Town
Page 108 8
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Page 114 114 118 122 124 126 128 132 134 142
Personality Real People Fit and Fresh Health and Wellness Golf Trip Planner Prime Finds SNAP! Last Word
Curtis and Emily are now ready to entertain friends and family in their new gorgeous kitchen and welcome new memories in their beautiful home! Welcome home from your friends at Premier Realty. Thank you for trusting us with one of life’s largest purchases.
Congratulations! In this ever changing market, we work hard to make sure each and every one of our clients get the home of their dreams. Premier Realty stands for
“Pride of Ownership and Pride in our Community.”
“We’re Not National, We’re Your Neighbors” Not a franchise company • CalBRE# 01357148 • Real Estate Broker - CA Dept. of Real Estate 3977 Coffee Road, Ste. C (Behind Chicago Title) • 661.588.6600
• www.gopremierrealty.com
S TA F F S H A R E S
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUPER BOWL SUNDAY? “I always like the ‘squares’ games. It gives everyone a reason to enjoy the game. Now ... if only I can win one time.” — Jorge Barrientos, assistant managing editor “Football, food and friends! What’s not to like? All that’s missing is Dallas winning it all!” — Mark Nessia, contributing photographer and writer
“For me, it’s all about the halftime performances and clever commercials!” — Hillary Haenes, specialty publications coordinator “Having the opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Nothing beats watching a good football game surrounded by those you love.” — Olivia Garcia, editor “Empty streets, stores and golf courses. You feel like you have the entire town to yourself.” — Glenn Hammett, art director “My recipe for Super Bowl Sunday is simple: chip, dip, sip, repeat! Makes the conveyor belt of commercials much more enjoyable!” — Lisa Kimble, contributing writer
“I enjoy the commercials the most. I think you’re able to see some really great advertising and creativity put to work.” — Emily Claffy, contributing writer “The eccentric commercials. They get edgier each year.” — Eduardo Gamez, intern
“Getting together with friends and family to watch the game is my favorite part of this event. The combination of good friends, good food, and, hopefully, a great game is what I'm looking forward to the most.” — Kevin McCloskey, contributing writer
Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine Feb. 2014 / Vol. 8 / Issue 5 Bakersfield Life™ magazine is published by The Bakersfield Californian. The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin Interactive Sales Manager Gunter Copeland Advertising Sales Manager Lisa Whitten Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Marketing Contractor Mira Patel Distribution and Marketing Representative Patrick Wells Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Jorge Barrientos Specialty Publications Coordinator Hillary Haenes Editorial Assistant Marisol Sorto, Estella Aguilar Art Director Glenn Hammett Photography Felix Adamo, Sally Baker, Henry A. Barrios, Marty Bicek, Casey Christie, Lois Henry, Michael Lopez, April Massirio, Greg Nichols, Mark Nessia, Carla Rivas, Rodney Thornburgh, Amy Tierney, Brian N. Willhite Contributing Writers Robert Alimirzaie, Sally Baker, Gabriel Ramirez, Kelly Damian, Jeff Nickell, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Marissa Lay, Stephen Lynch, Kevin McCloskey, Lois Henry, Emily Claffy, Mark Nessia, Jacque Servadio, Brian N. Willhite, Chris Thornburgh, Chelsea Brewer, Robert Tapia, Sal Moretti Interns Eduardo Gamez, Ryan Barrera, Eric Garza On the cover Photo by April Massirio. Jeff Thompson and his companion Zinfandel, take a break from duck hunting northwest of Wasco.
10
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
BROWN ARMSTRONG Certified Public Accountants
Two industries have defined Kern County for more than 100 years, oil and agribusiness.
Brown Armstrong has been a leader in servicing these industries since 1974. Home grown and understanding your business needs. Call us today!
661.324.4971 www.bacpas.com
EDITOR’S NOTE
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Jeff Nickell is the executive director of Kern Adult Literacy Council and regular contributor to the History section of Bakersfield Life. His newest post follows a long tenure at the Kern County Museum. He also teaches sociology at Bakersfield College. He has been married to wife Katie for 25 years, and together, they have two grown children, Courtney and Chris. He enjoys spending time with family, playing tennis (Jeff is a board member of the Bakersfield Raquet Club), and participating in triathlons. He is also a college sports fan (and wrestled in college) and has written and recorded several songs, including the Buckaroos. In this issue: Jeff this month is featured as our Talk of the Town (Page 62) as the newest executive director of the literacy council. And he shares the history of Rankin Ranch (Page 104).
Stephen Lynch is a freelance sports writer, who also works full-time for the Gallo Wine Company as a chain sales representative. Born in Bakersfield, he was raised in Alaska. After playing three years of college basketball and working for two years as an assistant sports information director, Stephen graduated from Azusa Pacific University in 1988, with a degree in communication studies. He moved back to Bakersfield in 1989, and soon after met the love of his life and started a family. His wife of nearly 23 years, Carla, passed away in 2012. They have three children together: Caycee, 22; Stephen, 20; and Savannah, 18. He has been a freelance sports writer for The Bakersfield Californian since 2006. He also works as the official statistician for the Bakersfield College Renegade football team. In this issue: Stephen highlights Liberty High and Cal State Stanislaus basketball star Sam Marcus as our All-Star Athlete (Page 60).
12
Bakersfield Life Magazine
FEBRUARY BRINGS LOVE
I
t's Valentine's Day, and love is in the air. For that special reason, we thought we'd put the spotlight on the men in our life. This is our men edition, and we are highlighting a few great things about the guys in our life. For one, we spoke to a few of our local men and talked about their passion and interest in the outdoors. Jeff Thomson, a local farmer, and his fourlegged loyal buddy, a Chesapeake Bay retriever named Zinfandel, grace our cover and inside, he discusses his love for hunting. Meanwhile, Kern County Sheriff's Department Chief Deputy Kevin Zimmermann gives us a glimpse into his reading, including his favorite historical figures. Our own John Wells, senior vice president of revenue and marketing, talks to us about the family pet, a loving Yorkiepoo named Coleman. Writer Lisa Kimble takes us back into history with a story about Alfred Harrell. Learn how he played a big role in our community. Aside from the men in our lives, we are also giving tribute to our local oil and agricultural community by shining the spotlight on a few families. Get to know the history behind the Holmes Oil Company, a local independent oil production company run by Bruce A. Holmes. His connection with oil began with his great grandfather who worked as a cable-tool driller near Oildale and drilled for oil in the Kern River, Lost Hills and the “Devils Den.” Some of you are probably familiar with the five-acre citrus ranch, known as Minetti’s Anxious Acres. Dick Minetti shares his story, as does Brian Kirschenmann, the owner of Kirschenmann Farms, Inc., whose family has been farming potatoes for more than
February 2014
100 years. (Brian’s wife, Katie, is a Fit and Fresh columnist in our magazine, by the way). There are others featured as well. Be sure to learn more about these important families who give so much, not only to this county, but to our nation as well. Also, you may have noticed a new, shiny bar code on the front of your Bakersfield Life Magazine. We’ve made a few changes that we wanted to share with you. Starting with this issue, Bakersfield Life will be available only with your subscription to The Bakersfield Californian, in our newspaper single copy stands and at select shopping destinations throughout town. The magazine will no longer be available at freestanding Bakersfield Life racks. However, as we mentioned, you can pick up a copy with a purchase of The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of the month, which will cost $1.50, 62% off the BLIFE cover price. Of course, you can always pick up copies at The Bakersfield Californian downtown, 1707 Eye St. Each copy costs $3.95. And as always, you can catch articles, pictures and videos at bakersfieldlife.com. In addition, we will maintain our partnership with Issuu so that you can see and read a digital copy of our magazine online by going to our website: bakersfieldlife.com If you have any questions or thoughts, please share them with me. Happy Valentine’s Day.
Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 • ogarcia@bakersfield.com
UP FRONT
WORD ON THE STREET Compiled by Brian N. Willhite
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT? Tori Gee
Gina Gailey
Dan Fontaine
“One year, I received a poster with a poem written on it using candy wrappers.”
“A man!”
“Lasagna from Rosa’s (Italian Restaurant).”
Toni Taylor
George Llama
Andrew Boydston
“Flowers. What lady doesn’t like them?”
“Chocolate!”
“As you can tell by my beard, I like to treat myself to a bottle of Jack and the Lifetime Channel.”
Michael Mackie
Terri Knapp
Jeannine Martinez
“It would probably be new cologne wrapped with a kiss from my wife.”
“Diamonds — a girl’s best friend.”
“Roses and a teddy bear.”
bakersfieldlife.com
13
UP FRONT
THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Felix Adamo
LETTING THEIR VOICES BE HEARD Driller fans came in force to the StubHub Center in Carson to cheer the Drillers to a 56-26 win over Del Oro for the CIF Division I State Championship.
14
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
bakersfieldlife.com
15
UP FRONT
THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Felix Adamo
A LITTLE OFF OF THE TOP Using a ladder and a trimmer with an extension, Alfonso Goicoechea trims back foilage growing on the east wall of a parking structure at the corner of 20th and L streets in downtown Bakersfield. Goicoechea works for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools.
16
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
bakersfieldlife.com
17
UP FRONT
NAMED AFTER
ALFRED HARRELL HIGHWAY
Looking east on Alfred Harrell Highway across the Fairfax overpass. 18
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
flat-bed Cottrell hand press, a 3horsepower gasoline engine, two little job printing presses, a cutting machine and an assortment of type. Harrell wrote and proofed copy, sold advertising and oversaw collections. In 1907, he renamed it The Bakersfield Californian. Harrell’s editorials were often times gutsy. In the 1920s, when the Ku Klux Alfred Harrell Klan was active in Taft, the paper printed the names of all those involved. But Harrell was a genteel as he was brazen. “The quotation from Tennyson, ‘The greater the man, the greater the courtesy,’ aptly described Mr. Harrell,” said the late Jim Day, longtime managing editor. “I never knew him to treat anyone, no matter who it was, from the copy boy to the man on the street, or any official of some kind or another, with anything but courtesy.” Described as tall, dignified, and in later years, silver-haired with a distinguished mustache, Harrell was equally civic minded. His fingerprints can be found on numerous local organizations, including the first Board of Trade and the Kern County Historical Society. And he never lost sight of California’s potential. He backed the great Central Valley Project, and the highway system linking outlying county communities to metropolitan Bakersfield. In 1969, Harrell became the 24th person to be named to the Newspaper Hall of Fame. He worked almost up until his death in 1946 at the age of 83. — Lisa Kimble
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
A
century ago, a Kern County transplant and teacherturned-publisher established a bond with his readership that transcended politics and enabled the growth and progress of parts of the southern San Joaquin Valley. Alfred Harrell, editor and publisher of The Bakersfield Californian for nearly five decades and for whom the highway linking this city with Hart Memorial Park is named, was one of the community’s most respected members at a time when Bakersfield was busting at the seams. Harrell was born in Merced in 1863. He was educated in Oakland-area schools, where he developed a lifelong love for learning. Trained as a teacher, he came to Kern at the age of 19 and taught in Wasco. Within a few years, Harrell was rising the educational ladder and was elected Superintendent of Schools in 1886 at the age of 23. Over the course of a decade, Harrell is credited with improving requirements and salaries for teachers and establishing the first high school in Bakersfield. It was called Kern Union, later known as Bakersfield High, but originally called “Kaycee Hi,” a four-story building in the center of Elm Grove in downtown Bakersfield. Harrell’s legacy could have rested there, but the maverick set his sights on publishing. He served as interim editor of the Kern County Gazette, but no other newspaper experience. That all changed in 1897 when 34-year-old Harrell purchased a struggling four-page paper with a circulation of 300, published every Saturday. The publication was a descendant of the Daily Courier, Kern’s first newspaper. Accounts of how much Harrell paid vary — between $1,000 and $2,500 for an old
MONEY MATTERS
10 TIPS TO REDUCE TAXES, INCREASE YOUR REFUND
P
aying your taxes may be a requirement, but paying too much in taxes is not. Many deductions reduce your taxes, but it helps to know what you are looking for. See if you can reduce your taxes or increase your refund with these 10 tips: 1) Property taxes on a timeshare:
Timeshare property taxes are often included in the yearly maintenance fee. Check your statement to see if they are separated. Additionally, if you purchased or sold a home or timeshare this year, property taxes you paid at closing are included on your settlement statement and can be deducted as well. 2) Refinance points: Points paid in a refinance are deductible over the life of the new loan. It requires some tracking, but worth the deduction. Even better, when you sell the house or refinance again, you can deduct the remaining points. 3) Health insurance premiums: Health insurance premiums you pay, including Medicare premiums and some long-termcare premiums based on your age, are potentially deductible if your medical expenses exceed adjusted gross income limitations. If you are self-employed and not covered by an employer-paid plan, you can deduct 100 percent of your health insurance premiums (to the extent of your net income) “above the line,” reducing your adjusted gross income. 4) Investment and tax expenses:
Many of us forget tax-planning and investment expenses since they fall under miscellaneous itemized expenses, which must exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income before realizing a tax benefit. Expenses to track include employee business expenses, tax preparation fees, and even legal or accounting fees relating to tax and estate planning. Investment expenses include safety deposit box fees, broker fees, IRA fees you pay directly, and investment publications. 5) State tax paid last spring: Did you owe tax when you filed your 2012 state income tax return in the spring of 2013? Remember to add it to the state tax deduction on your 2013 federal tax return. 6) Non-cash contributions: Too often people don’t accurately value non-cash con-
tributions, such as clothes. Goodwill.org has a great valuation guide online. Make sure to ask the donation site for a dated receipt. 7) Out-of-pocket charitable contributions: Don’t overlook your out-of-pocket
costs incurred while doing charity work. Small amounts add up and save your receipts. If your contribution totals more than $250, you’ll need an acknowledgement from the charity documenting your support. Your charitable mileage is worth a deduction of 14 cents per mile. 8) Costs related to caring for a parent: If you pay for a parent’s care and your
parent qualifies as your dependent, you can deduct the medical and care costs associated with your parent, including in-home care and nursing home care. 9) Credits for energy-saving home improvements: If you made energy-saving
home improvements in 2013, such as new windows and insulation, you may qualify for an expiring tax credit worth 10 percent of the cost, up to $500, if you did not use the credit up in prior years. Homeowners who install qualified residential alternative energy equipment, such as solar hot water heaters, reap a generous tax credit of 30 percent of the total cost. This credit is good through 2016. 10) Bad debt: Did you loan someone money and not get repaid? You may qualify for the non-business bad debt deduction, which is treated as a short-term capital loss on your tax return. Individuals and married couples can deduct up to $3,000 per year against taxable income and unused amounts are carried forward until fully utilized. It’s best to be aware of deductions all year long so you can maintain good records. But even as the tax filing deadline approaches, it still pays to know which are eligible deductions and dig up your receipts to claim them. For additional overlooked deductions that may apply to you, see your tax professional. — Chris Thornburgh is a CPA and partner at Brown Armstrong Accountancy Corp. Contact her at cthornburgh @bacpas.com or 324-4971. Thornburgh bakersfieldlife.com
19
UP FRONT
PHOTO BY JOHN GASTALDO/ZUMA
SHORT TAKES
PAINT YOURSELF ‘RAD’ IN ANNUAL RACE
W
hat’s more fun than running a 5K race during a cool winter day? Running one by getting splashed with colored cornstarch, of course. Color Me Rad, a race where runners are splattered with a rainbow of colors, returns to the Kern County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Feb. 15, with registration open until Feb. 12. Registration — $50, with 20 percent of proceeds going to the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House by using the promo code “BRMH” online — includes a Color Me Rad T-shirt, sunglasses, color bombs and more. The first wave of racers start at 10 a.m., followed by three more waves starting 10 minutes after the other. More information: colormerad.com and search for “Bakersfield.” — Eric Garza
20
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
CSUB CELEBRATES 75-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF ‘THE GRAPES OF WRATH’
I
t’s been 75 years since John Steinbeck introduced the world to the Joads and their trek that put Bakersfield and Kern County on the map. On Feb. 7 at the Fox Theater, Cal State Bakersfield’s School of Arts and Humanities and The Public History Institute will kick off a year-long celebration honoring the 75th anniversary of Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prizewinning novel “The Grapes of Wrath.” A gala will feature a concert by country music artist Dave Alvin and a screening of the classic 1939 film. Tickets to the event are $20 for students, $30 for general admission, and $75 for VIPs. Tickets: Vallitix.com. Throughout 2014, CSUB will feature a variety of events to commemorate the Dust Bowl era migration. More information: csub.edu/ah/grapesofwrath. — Bakersfield Life Magazine
YOUNG WRITERS: TIME TO PUT PEN TO THE PAPER
K
ern County Young Writers is once again putting pen to paper with its annual writing and poetry competition, open to local students in sixth to 12th grades. This year’s theme is “How agriculture has impacted Kern County.” The aim of the competition is emphasize in young people the importance of becoming a good writer. “It would be a crime for a person to grow up in Kern County and not
have an appreciation for agriculture,” said competition committee member Robert Tafoya, who is also a Kern County Superior Court judge, in an email. Students can choose to write a short story, essay or poetry. For guidelines, ideas and more information, go to writersofkern.com/kcyw or email kcyw@writersofkern.com. Deadline for entries is March 14. Ten winners will be chosen in April and earn scholarships. — Ryan Barrera
MY PET
JOHN WELLS AND COLEMAN
‘FINDING FAME’ HOLLYWOOD PARTY PLANNER TO RELEASE NEW BOOK
B
akersfield native Rachel Hollis, featured in the Finding Fame section of Bakersfield Life’s January issue, will release her new novel, Party Girl, on Valentine’s Day. Based on her years as a successful Hollywood party planner, this “roman a clef” in the vein of “The Devil Wears Prada” offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the celebrity obsessed world of event planning. From the party
John Wells with his 9-year-old Yorkiepoo, Coleman.
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
C
oleman, a Yorkiepoo, was just 10 weeks old when he became part of the Wells family. “He grew right into this active family of three boys (four, if you count myself),” said John Wells, senior vice president of revenue and marketing at The Bakersfield Californian. “He is always up for a good fight, will tirelessly chase after his numerous ‘babies’ in the house, and will never turn down a walk. He is happy 98 percent of the time and is always there for anyone. Like most dogs, he holds no grudges. He’s always happy to see you and is a superior watch dog.” Coleman is now 9 and enjoys life with John, Karen and their three sons Patrick, Mark and Matthew. When he’s not with Coleman and family, John spends time on the golf course, tennis courts or cooking. How I named my pet… Our sons originally wanted to call him “Coal” because of how dark he was, with the dark eyes. My wife suggested “Coleman.” We like to tell people he’s named after the late Gary Coleman of “Diff’rent Strokes” fame. He is also known in the neighborhood as “The Colemenator.” I know my pet is moody when… he won’t eat, won’t wrestle and won’t beg for a treat. What makes my pet happy: Going to the P-A-R-K for a W-A-LK. Yorkieoos are very smart, so you must spell words out. It’s to the point where you can’t even spell the word walk; you must use other words like “stroll” when discussing with family members. My pet in 5 words: Tenacious, dedicated, loving, killer and beggar. He will spend three hours staring under a log waiting for a lizard to come out. He will back down from no other dogs. He’s the Colemenator! Favorite food: I cook him eggs in the morning. He has a fondness for vegetables (peas, cooked carrots and, of course, dog treats). But he’ll eat anything. Talents: One of his unusual skills is to take a head band place it under his front paws, shoot it up in the air and try to catch it in his mouth. He’s successful with the catch about 50 percent of the time.’
Favorite moments: When we return from being away one to two days, he is ecstatic to see us and so are we.
habits of America’s favorite underage singer, to the worst Bridezilla of all (the kind that graces the cover of your favorite magazine), Party Girl reveals the ugly side of Hollywood’s prettiest parties. It will be available on Amazon. For more information, go to thechicsite.com. — Kelly Damian bakersfieldlife.com
21
UP FRONT
SHORT TAKES
28TH HOME, GARDEN SHOW HOSTS ONE-STOP SHOPPING
Everything from cooks to contractors are featured at the Bakersfield Home & Garden Show.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
A
re you looking to spice up your home’s décor, desiring some gardening tips for the spring, or perhaps needing that roof to be fixed? Contractors, landscapers and other professionals will be showcasing their expertise on home improvement during the 28th Bakersfield Home & Garden Show from Feb. 21 to 23 at the Kern County Fairgrounds. It’s dubbed as “one-stop shopping for all of your home improvement needs — all under one roof.” Gates open at 12 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Feb. 21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 22; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 23. Admission is $7 for adults, and $4 on Friday between 4 to 7 p.m. More information: ggshows.com. — Eric Garza
WHAT I’M READING
KEVIN ZIMMERMANN Chief Deputy, Kern County Sheriff’s Office
K
evin Zimmerman, a chief deputy with the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, says he understands the importance of exploring one’s imagination through fiction, especially in children. But his preference is non-fiction. “In my view, reading continues to be the best vehicle for personal formation and growth,” he said. When he’s not reading, this former U.S. Marine and lifelong resident of Kern County enjoys raising his children in Bakersfield with wife, Sofie, and staying active in the community. What I’m currently reading: A biography of one of England’s most revered naval heroes, Horatio Nelson, titled, “Nelson: A Dream of Glory, 1758-1797” by John Sugden. Favorite author: A tie between Stephen E. Zimmermann Ambrose and Douglas Southall Freeman. Ambrose wrote extensively about World War II and its main players. I enjoy Ambrose’s attention to detail and his ability to peel back the layers of humanity within each of his subjects, particularly Dwight Eisenhower. Freeman’s accounts of the Civil War are equally impressive, and each account lets the reader to get lost in the experiences of the time. 22
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Favorite book: “Patton: A Genius For War” by Carlo D’Este. I believe D’Este was able to move well beyond the mythical predilections offered by previous biographers. D’Este captured George Smith Patton as a child, a man, a husband, and ultimately, as the famed general we think we know. Books I’ve read more than once: I have read James Thomas Flexner’s four-volume account of George Washington’s life several times. George Washington is a personal hero of mine, so I enjoy revisiting the challenges he faced throughout his life. I have also read D’Este’s “Patton” more times than I can remember. Other materials I like reading: I also enjoy exploring the various world religions and just about anything related to leadership and group dynamics. Additionally, during the last decade or so, I have also enjoyed reading about the political dynamics that shape the world community. The book that’s been inspirational in my life: Beyond the Bible, I find inspiration and utility from most books because most I choose to read are non-fiction. Most recently, I read David O. Stewart’s “American Emperor: Aaron Burr’s Challenge to Jefferson’s America.” In it, Stewart chronicles the twists and turns of an American political miscreant. I believe we can always find some utility in the hard lessons forged from our history’s actors, even bad actors.
SHORT TAKE
LOCAL HOSPITAL VETERAN CHOSEN AS MERCY HOSPITALS PRESIDENT, CEO
L
ocal hospitals are his business. Bruce Peters, chief operating officer of Memorial Hospital for more than 12 years, has been named president and CEO for Mercy Hospitals. Peters has been a part of Bakersfield’s health community for about 16 years. He’s also been one with our community, being a part of the American Heart
Association, Kern Economic Development Corporation, and many other local groups. He’s also been involved in reaching out to other health care agencies as part of partnerships and strategic moves. Peters told The Bakersfield Californian he was excited and felt privileged to be chosen for this new endeavor. — Eric Garza
Bruce Peters
HISPANIC CHAMBER ANNUAL INSTALLATION, AWARDS CEREMONY LETTER TO THE EDITOR
T
he Kern County Hispanic of Commerce will hold its 29th annual Installation Banquet and Business Awards at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Bakersfield. The chamber will install its 2014 board, said Jay Tamsi, chamber president and CEO. The officers are Blodgie Rodriguez, chairwoman; Mari PerezDowling, chairwoman-elect; Adam Alvidrez, vice chairman; David Alanis, secretary; Olivia Garcia, treasurThe 2014 executive board of the Kern County Hiser; and Denise Ornelas, past chair. panic Chamber of Commerce is as follows: top, The board of directors are Ernie left, Jay Tamsi, Blodgie Rodriguez, Denise Ornelas Pineda, Nick Ortiz, Sal Brito, Dr. and David Alanis, and bottom, left, Mari PerezRebecca Rivera, Les Clark, Gabriel A. Dowling, Adam Alvidrez and Olivia Garcia Godinez, Carlos Navarro, Eva ored with special awards also, Tamsi. Tickets Ramirez, Ed Rodriguez, Donna Hollingsworth, are $75, or $700 for a table. More information: Ed Herrera, Donna Hermann and Joe Serrano. kchcc.org or 633-5495. Businesses and individuals will be hon-
DUST OFF THE COWBOY BOOTS FOR WHISKEY FLAT DAYS
D
ust off those old cowboy boots and hat and get ready for the annual Whiskey Flat Days event on Feb. 14 to 17 — four nostalgic days paying homage to the Wild West and the Kern River Valley. More then 50,000 people attended the event last year in Kernville, 50 miles northeast of Bakersfield. This year’s theme for the 57th event is “Boots, Bells and Bowls,” sponsored
by the Kernville Chamber of Commerce. The event will feature the typical carnival, rodeo and parade but also a petting zoo, mayor race, food and craft booths, costume contests, line dancing, gunfighter skits, kids activities and more. More information: www.kernvalley.com/news/whiskey.htm — Ryan Barrera
Treasured shopping experience Thank you for your article regarding Cezanne Gallery and Maris Madigan (“Celebrate quality customer service ... when you find it,” Bakersfield Matters, January 2014). She is so deserving to be honored, and you did it beautifully. I can remember going in to Cezanne when I was 18 just to wander into the gallery and gaze at the delightful treasures on display. Todd Madigan was gracious and welcoming to all, and Maris has continued to this day. I treasure my yellow boxes. Thank you again for honoring a truly gracious lady. Goes’s Gifts, Babcock’s Books and The French Quarter Shop are all good for me to remember, too. They truly created a shopping experience that is a quality memory of “once upon a time.” — Patricia Fields
bakersfieldlife.com
23
UP FRONT
SHORT TAKE
ON THE WEB
CSUB ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
M
eet the 2014 Cal State Bakersfield Alumni Association Hall of Fame inductees: Audrey Cochran is a nationally certified nurse in continence care and gerontological nursing and CSUB graduate of 1990. She’s involved in Sigma Theta Tau and the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, among others. In 2006, she was the first CSUB alumnus to receive the President’s Medal. John Nilon is Kern County’s Administrative Officer, who earned his bachelor’s degree from CSUB in 1979 and master’s in 1988. He serves on a variety of boards and community organizations, including American Society of Public Administration and California Living Museum. He has been awarded with “Outstanding Volunteer” in 2007 at Mercy and Memorial Hospitals, among others. Lynne Hall is a licensed marriage and family therapist who received her master’s degree from CSUB in 1978. She was a dean at Bakersfield College and taught at Foothill High School, BC and CSUB. She has won the “Outstanding Alumni Award” from the CSUB School of Education. Russell Judd, president at Dignity Health’s Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield and now CEO of Kern Medical Center, earned master’s degree from CSUB. He serves as chairman of the Kern County Chapter of the American Red Cross and is a board member of the Hospital Council of Northern and Central California. The four inductees will be honored at a gala in February. More information, tickets: csub.edu/alumni/attend/ halloffame.shtml. — Ryan Barrera
24
Bakersfield Life Magazine
HARD-WORKING MEN
T
hank you to our readers who submitted a nomination for our Hard-Working Man Contest. We received plenty of great submissions. The winner is Gary Culp who will receive a $100 to the Rocket Shop Cafe. See below to read the winner and other submissions. In addition, you can read the rest of the nominations online by going to bakersfieldlife.com Gary Culp, Aera Energy (Belridge), Abandonment Specialist in the Investment Recovery Group My husband, Gary, is the hardest working man I know. We have been married 35 years, and we have three grown children and three grandsons. My husband gets up for work every morning during the week at 3:30 a.m., and he drives out to Belridge, here in Kern County, where he works hard all day for Aera Energy. He then comes home to work for several hours every week day and all weekend long, with our daughter who is 31 years old with severe disabilities. I am able to be of a small amount of help. I, too, have been going through some physical and emotional difficulties. So needless to say, he deals with a lot; between our daughter and me, he doesn’t have any down time for himself. He is our family’s hero. He helps where he can with our daughter who is 34, married and has given us 3 grandsons and a wonderful son-in-law, and he also helps our son who is 26 and a cancer survivor. My husband really is the hardest working man I know. — Kathy Culp
CUTEST PET CONTEST!
N
ext month, we plan to highlight pets, and we’d like readers to send us their cutest pet photo! Tell us what makes your pet so adorable, goofy, fun or awesome. In addition, please send us a quick line about
February 2014
Daniel Duty, Logging Engineer for Halliburton A hard-working man at work and home is hard to find, but my father, Dan Duty, is a diamond in the rough. He is a true rags-to-riches story, and one of the kindest, most humble people you’ll ever meet. My dad has worked for Halliburton for 39 years, often when most are still asleep, with no idea when he’ll be home again. Somehow, between the 18- to 72-hour shifts, he still finds time for his family, mental prowess for a Texas Hold-em tournament and the energy to play hockey or travel the world by cruise ship or Corvette. Dan is a big man with an even bigger heart, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen. A real gentle giant. To know him is to love him and be loved by him. — Jeffrey Odnert (son) Tyler Hartley, Bakersfield City Deputy Fire Chief My husband Tyler is always on the go. We have been married for 22 years and I have never seen him slow down. He works as a Deputy Fire Chief with Bakersfield City and teaches a Firefighter 1 class at BC. Tyler volunteers in the community and has coached a variety of sport teams. He continues working at home helping with laundry, dishes, yard work, washing cars, cooking and helping our children with homework. With all he does, Tyler still finds time for his family; that is why I find him to be the hardest working man I know. — Michele Hartley
your pet, letting us know your pet’s name, age (if possible), breed, and something special about your family pet in no more than 100 words. To enter the contest, email your pet photo to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the email subject line: Bakersfield Life Cutest Pet Contest. Those who submit will be entered in a contest to win a prize.
MODEL SAVANNAH TEMPLETON By Emily Claffy
S
avannah Templeton, 18, started modeling at a young age. Her early career led her to Mattel, which featured her on the back of a Barbie doll box. But at age 10, she stopped modeling and focused on playing volleyball and showing horses, she said. Recently, Templeton found her way back into the spotlight after being cast for a part in the popular Swedish DJ Avicii’s music video, “Hey Brother.” “There was a spot for an ‘all-American girl’ so I went in for an audition and was called back the next day,” she said. The son of her mother’s friend was in charge of finding locations for the casting call and video and in November, filming started throughout Bakersfield. It features glimpses of downtown Bakersfield, Lazy H Mobil Ranch and the Bakersfield National Cemetery. “My grandfather was buried there, so it was super sentimental,” Templeton said. “We actually filmed right by my grandfather’s grave.” Templeton’s exposure in the Avicii video has presented new opportunities for her — some she has taken, and others she has not. “I didn’t want to jump in too quick,” she said, including refusing a networking offer from the video’s director. But just a month later, Templeton found herself with another opportunity after attending a casting call for “America’s Next
Savannah Templeton models at Bella at the Marketplace, where she works.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAVANNAH TEMPLETON
FINDING FAME
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAVANNAH TEMPLETON
Top Model.” “I made it to the callbacks and now I’m just waiting,” she said. “My dream is to be a Victoria’s Secret model, but school is first. I want to get all that under my belt before I start on my future.” Templeton is a freshman at Cal State Bakersfield and plans to major in business marketing with a minor in English. She said she hopes to attend the University of Southern California for her junior and senior years as an undergraduate and get her master’s degree in business from there. Her plans include owning a clothing boutique or getting involved in the fashion industry as a buyer or a sales representative. As if her education, job and a modeling career weren’t enough to keep her busy, Templeton also attends Bible study multiple times a week. “God is a really big part of my life,” she said. “He is my biggest passion and keeps me grounded. He is the hope.” “Last May, I had my third knee surgery, and it was hard because my friends went away to school and that was my plan too, but not God’s plan,” Templeton said. “Now, I’m going to school and have so many new friends. And I think, ‘Would this have happened if I went away?’ Probably not. It’s just crazy the way that things work out.” — Do you know someone from Bakersfield who is finding fame, or is representing Bakersfield while in the spotlight? Email us an idea at Savannah Templeton on the set of Avicii’s bakersfieldlife@ video “Hey Brother,” which she stars in bakersfield.com with the suband was filmed in parts of Bakersfield. ject line: Finding Fame.
Winter
Specials 10% Off Laser Hair Removal Packages (not valid on laser touch up procedures)
20% Off Fractional CO2 Laser Treatments, IPL Photofacial, Vampire Facelift, Pelleve
10% Off Fillers Juvederm, Artefill, Expressions, Restylane, Perlane
Radiesse Special Buy (1) 1.5cc Radiesse or Belotero Syringe, and get .8cc of Radiesse FREE ($480 value, limited quantity) Specials end Feb 28th, 2014
Husband & Wife Approach to OB/GYN and Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Jason P. Helliwell liwell Certified by the American board of cosmetic surgeryy in breast, body, and d extremities. Board Certified OB/GYN Dr. Siniva Kaneen en Board Certified OB/GYN
CosmeticSurgeryBakersfield.com bakersfieldlife.com
25
UP FRONT
IN SEASON
CARROTS Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
C
arrots are among the hottest commodity and biggest businesses in Kern County — about 85 percent of the United States carrot crop is grown in and around Bakersfield. They’re root vegetables and typically are orange, but purple, white, red and yellow varieties also exist. They’re variable biennial plants, meaning they take two years to complete their biological life cycles — similar to parsley. Today’s carrots are believed to have originated from Iran and Afghanistan, where the wild carrot is abundant. Carrots first displayed its
orange color in the Netherlands in the 17th century because of selective breeding. Carrots are harvested from November to July, and have a crunchy texture, lightly sweet, aromatic taste that’s great with any dish.
SELECT Look for good, smooth form and a healthy orange color. Also choose a carrot with greens still attached.
STORE Remove the greens from the carrot, wrap in plastic, and store in the vegetable drawer of the fridge.
FACTS • Carrots valued at $350 million in 2012 for Kern County. • Ancient Greeks and Romans cultivated carrots. • Carrots are made up of about 87 percent water. • Carrots get their color from beta-carotene. • One cup of raw carrots contains about 52 calories. • Carrots originally started out as white, but due to selective breeding are now a variety of colors. • Bakersfield is home to the largest carrotproducing operations in the world: Grimmway Farms and Bolthouse Farms.
RECIPE: CARROT AND GREEN BEAN STIR FRY
NUTRITION 25 calories per medium carrot; rich in antioxidants, vitamins and dietary fiber; top source for beta-carotene; source of potassium copper, calcium and phosphorus.
PREPARATION Clean carrots can be blanched, steamed, boiled, braised and even roasted. There are countless ways to prepare carrots for eating. They can also be cut in a variety of ways.
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 3 cloves of chopped fresh garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 3 cups of fresh green beans, 1-1/2 cups fresh carrots. Directions: Peel and slice and dice carrots and cut off the ends of the greens; blanch carrots and green beans for 25 to 35 minutes in a pot depending on preference for texture; once vegetables are blanched, drain the pot of water and return to the stove; combine olive oil and chopped garlic with carrots and green beans and turn on flame to medium heat and stir every so often; once the oil begins to simmer, add salt and pepper; leave flame on for about 10 to 15 minutes after combing salt and pepper, or until the carrots and green beans have softened to your likening. Sources: Kern County Farm Bureau; 2012 Kern County Agricultural Crop Report; healthdiaries.com; Huffington Post; City of Bakersfield.
26
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
UP FRONT
Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email: bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com
HAPPENINGS: Can’t-miss events in February Sat. 1 Streets of Bakersfield Rookie Round-Up Robotics Tournament, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Free admission and parking. 304-4378 or 833-4900. Tap ‘N’ Run, visit three beer chug stations along the race course, 1 p.m., 1525 Wall St. $60. Includes T-shirt, medal, full beer Tap ‘N’ at finish line. tapnrun.com or 502Run 653-4940.
Sun. 2 Bakersfield High School Choirs, part of the Fred and Beverly Dukes concert series, 4 p.m., First Congregational Church, 5 Real Road. Free. 327-1609.
Mon. 3
Cotton Patch Quilters of Kern quilt show, nearly 200 quilts on display and more than 25 vendors, 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $5, parking is free.
Sun. 9 Guitar Masters presents Pete Huttlinger, 7:30 to 9 p.m., American Sound Recording Studios, Studio A, 2231 R St. $30. Email rkreiser@carneys.com or 2047685. WWE Live, 5 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $15-$95 plus fees. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.
Mon. 10
Fri. 14
Thur. 27
Don Felder: An Evening at the Hotel California, 8 p.m., Fox
Hello, Dolly!-Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $35 to $55 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000.
Theater, 2001 H St. $47.50-$67.50 vallitix.com or 322-5200. Valentine’s Super Love Jam, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $28.50-$38.50 plus fees; VIP $49.50 plus fees. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.
Sun. 16 U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West concert, 3 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Free. Tickets may be picked up at the Fox Theater Box Office or The Bakersfield Californian. 324-1369.
“The Doo-Wah Riders”, presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $60 for four concerts. bakersfieldcca.org or 205-8522 or 589-2478.
Third annual National Frozen Yogurt Day, free frozen yogurt and toppings, 4 to 7 p.m. Yogurtland, 10930 Stockdale Highway.
Gabriel Iglasias
Fri. 21 Gabriel Iglesias, 7 p.m.,
Sat. 8
Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $28-$63 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.
Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, presents “A Classic of
Sat. 22
Comedy & Tragedy,” 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $20 to $45; all students are $10. bsonow.org or 323-7928.
Clint Black, 8 p.m., Fox Theater,
Clint Black
CSUB Peak Club Valentine’s Run/Walk, awards, raffle prizes, registration 7 to 8:30 a.m., begins 9 a.m., CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $25. Visit active.com, valentinesrun.com, or 654-6084.
Inaugural Roadrunner Baseball Hot Stove Dinner, guest
Thur. 13 Harlem Globetrotters, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $21-$103 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.
speaker Tommy John, auction, 5:30 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $100. 6543473.
Kern County Raceway Winter Series 28
Bakersfield Life Magazine
Harlem Globetrotters
February 2014
2001 H St. $49.50-$69.50. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Winter Series: Open comp stock car, mini stocks INEX Legens and Bandoleros, Mini Dwarfs and more, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Kern County Raceway Park, Enos Lane and Interstate 5. $10. kernraceway.com or 835-1264.
Fri. 28 Luncheon Fashion Show & Conference, Go Red for Women, hear survivor stories, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Doubletree by Hilton, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $150. kerncountygoredluncheon.org, email cori.kitchen@heart.org or 327-1173.
Fri. 28-Sun. 2 Annual Boat, RV & Outdoor Living Show, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday ($5 Friday only for seniors 60+); 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $10 or $2 off regular admission w/canned food donation; children 5 and under free. calshows.com or 800-725-0793.
BY THE NUMBERS
AG AND OIL Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
I
t’s no secret: Agriculture and oil industries run this city. Here is proof in numbers.
Agriculture
63: Percentage increase from 2001 to 2011 for food manufacturing in Kern County 2 million: Tons produced for vegetable crops in Kern County in 2012 $732 million: Amount for livestock and poultry products produced in Kern County in 2012 7.7 million: Seed crops produced in Kern County in 2012 54,908: Ag jobs provided in Kern in 2012
$6.2 billion: Total value of agriculture produced in 2012
$539 million: Amount of
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
field crops produced in Kern County in 2012 $3.65 billion: Amount of fruit and nut crops produced in Kern County in 2012
Oil
Sources: 2012 Kern County Agricultural Crop Report; bakersfieldchamber.org; cekern.ucanr.edu; The Bakersfield Californian Market Research Department; Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources, California Department of Conservation; Kern County Department of Agriculture and Measurement Standards; California Employment Development Department.
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
42,975: Active oil wells in Kern County in 2012 78: Percentage of California oil wells are in Kern in 2012 141.5 million: Barrels of oil produced in Kern in 2012 72: Percentage of California barrels are in produced in Kern in 2012 12,250: Oil and gas jobs provided in Kern in 2012
bakersfieldlife.com
29
UP FRONT
MY MOBILE LIFE
ZACH EWING Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
I
f you follow local sports, no doubt you’ve gotten your information from The Bakersfield Californian’s Zach Ewing. He moved to Bakesfield in 2007 — he was born in Nebraska, grew up in New Mexico and attended University of Missouri. With his wife, they have two kids: Hannah, 3, and Thomas, 1. Since he arrived, it seems like Ewing’s work on local sports has never stopped. From posting pictures and videos of events he’s covering and giving readers live updates of games, scores and statistics to calling games on live broadcast and writing wrap-up stories for next day’s newspaper — all at the same time, no less — Ewing is truly a mobile king. “My life is almost completely mobile now,” Ewing said. “All journalists are used to deadlines and breaking news, but as a sports writer, those things are put into hyperdrive. People want information on the latest injury or coaching change now, so they can begin discussing what it means for their favorite teams.” Follow his blog at bakersfield.com/schoolhousezach, or his Twitter (@zewing). Here’s a closer look at the tools that are part of Ewing’s mobile life.
Twitter I’m honestly not sure how I ever lived without it. My dad reads the morning newspaper with his coffee. I check my Twitter feed. I subscribe to a smorgasbord of feeds, from local and national news, local sports figures and a bunch of sports sites and blogs that I can’t seem to stay away from.
Facebook For me, Twitter has always been more professional and work-oriented, while I try to keep my personal Facebook page, well, personal. I do have a “School House Zach” Facebook page, but usually checking Facebook means posting photos of my kids, chatting with friends or checking up on what old classmates and coworkers are doing.
TBC Mobile In a lot of ways, I find this free app easier to use then either The Californian’s print edition or even the website. Everything is right there at
30
Bakersfield Life Magazine
my fingertips, from the day’s top stories in The Californian to local traffic and weather reports. I can even find my own blog, School House Zach, in case I’m trying to quickly look up some information I’ve already reported.
Holy Bible I’m a Christian before anything else, so this one is important to me. My church encourages the use of mobile Bibles, and usually the readings for that Sunday’s service are put on the app’s live feature for easy access. It’s crazy to think that the world’s most popular and important book is contained within a single button on my phone.
ESPN ScoreCenter What can I say? I’m a sports junkie. This is the best live scoreboard app I’ve found because it lets you pick your favorite teams and puts those scores first (go Mizzou and go Mariners!), and then it chooses the biggest events so they’re right there at your fingertips. I also have WatchESPN downloaded in case I have a chance to watch the end of a big game live.
February 2014
Pandora I don’t listen to music a lot outside of the car, but when I do, I usually have the headphones plugged into my phone and Pandora playing. I’ll listen to anything, from pop music to rap to country to oldies. Depending on my mood, I’ll pick a station and let her ride.
Fantasy sports Yes, I’m a fantasy sports geek, too, and the advent of the smart phone has made it easier than ever. I can update my team’s baseball or football lineup in about 30 seconds with these babies, and then keep tabs on how my teams are doing from anywhere.
USAA Banking Banking on the go, too — what a world we live in. I actually still pay most of my bills on an old-fashioned laptop, but because USAA doesn’t have physical locations, the app is invaluable to transfer money between accounts and to deposit checks with the phone’s camera.
Bundle. Save. Celebrate.
Digital TV Service with Whole House DVR Service + Turbo Internet with speeds up to 30 Mbps for only
$109
per month for 24 months, plus taxes and equipment
• Exclusive programming like Bright House Networks Local On Demand, Kern Weather Network, KCAL, KCOP and KVPT HD • Even more viewing options with the Bright House TV app for your computer and most wireless devices • Start Over® lets you restart many programs already in progress and even look back up to three days on many favorites • Enjoy FREE access to Bright House Networks WiFi™ and Cable WiFi™ HotSpots nationwide with our Standard Internet, or faster • Whole House DVR service lets you record your favorite programs in one room and watch them on any TV in your DVR network
Call 1-855-222-0102 today! brighthouse.com Serviceable areas only. Some restrictions apply. Products and price of equipment and services subject to change. Start Over is a registered trademark of Time Warner Cable Inc., used under license. Offer expires 2/28/2014.
B A K E R S F I E L D M AT T E R S By Lisa Kimble
T
hese are angst-riddled days for Kern County high school seniors who aspire to go away to college in the fall and for their heavily invested parents as well. For the smartest cookies on the baking sheet, their sterling applications have been submitted, and most likely accepted by now. For the student athletes, their green light may hinge on the final stats. And then there is the rest of the pack — those in between who hope to enroll in a storied place of higher learning with brick and mortar older than Starbucks, but find themselves beating their 4.0 heads against the wall. Smart, but not smart enough by today’s uber competitive standards. Their tales of disappointment are all too familiar: blue chip student, five-star resume, a presumptive admittance to nearly any university in the land. Not. If Hasbro invents a college admissions game, they should name it High Anxiety. Or Rejection-o-rama. Or Pull Your Hair Out Until You Are Bald. Any direction you spin the dial, it is highly ambitious, oft cryptic, subjective and most unforgiving. We have two of these unnerving tangos under our belt for a combined 36 applications. Oh the Hawaiian vacation, I could have taken with all those application fees! We have a reprieve for a few years, but the sting of the pressure cooker doesn’t go away. This time last year, and two years before that, we were in a susKat Clowes pended state of high anxiety. Our mailman had never received so much daily attention from us at the mailbox. Nor had we received so much literature from Ole Miss and the University of Arizona. If only we had met “Kat” — Kathryn Clowes, a local certified educational consultant — sooner. Clowes looks a lot like
DECIPHERING CRYPTIC COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Louisiana State University’s homecoming queen. Statuesque, SEC gorgeous, and the consummate organizer, sharper than my set of Henckels knives, her own nontraditional college path did not go as scripted. “I graduated from Highland High in three years, graduated from Bakersfield College in two years at a time when the fee was $11 a unit,” said Clowes, who eventually was taking graduate courses along with her senior load in college where her pre-med major and plans to become a veterinarian, changed after a summer job working alongside a vet. “I had to market my skills more than my degree. So I had a lot of unpaid internships and melding of skills.” Three years ago, after helping others organize their way into college and career paths that suited them best, she launched March Consulting, one of several local educational consulting services catering to families overwhelmed by the college application maze. While most schools’ application deadlines have passed, Clowes said there are still quite a few who offer rolling admissions. “Look at the bigger picture, not just the admissions portion. College is a big step,” she said. “That bigger picture is about getting to know yourself. And where do you want to go after college? What are you good at, what are your skills, what career path would suit you best? Most students haven’t done any research into their field. I hadn’t. When I was in 10th grade, I wanted to be an orthodontist.” Clowes said she measures her success by helping students select the school that best fits them. “All of my students have been admitted to their first or second choice. I am less focused on the fancy schools than I am on getting the student into their dream school, which is where they truly belong,” she said. “For so many young adults in their 20s, they have lost a decade trying to figure out who they are. I’m trying to give them more tools to help reduce that wandering. After all, they are spending a lot of money, and taking on huge student loans.” Indeed. — Agree, disagree? Send your questions, comments or topics you’d like to read about to me at itmannersalot@bakersfield.com or visit itmannersalot.blogspot.com. Lisa Kimble
Bakersfield Racquet Club
Mon, Wed, Thurs 5:30pm • Sat 8:30 am
Riverlakes Community Center Tues, Thur 9 am For more info:
589-8950 or Jazzercise.com 32
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Wayne Long & Company 1502 Mill Rock Way, Suite 200 Bakersfield, CA 93311 (661) 664-0909 FAX (661) 664-0915
www.welcpa.com
FOOD DUDES
The new Food Dudes get ready to dig in at J’s Place. Clockwise, from bottom left: Robert Rodriguez, David Rous, Jay Tamsi, Vince Fong and Christopher Berry.
J’S PLACE Popular Southern food staple that’s good for the soul and belly Photos by Greg Nichols
I
f you and your family are looking for some good, authentic Southern food, you will not regret visiting J’s Place Waffle House & Southern Style Cooking. Now on the corner of Calloway Drive and Rosedale Highway, this restaurant, owned by Dirk and Tina Johnson, continues to be a hotspot for diners with an appetite. While you will notice more space for seating, the same simple hometown feel, warm service and delicious comfort food remain. Greeted with a smile, we were charmed by our server Bea,
34
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
who worked at the previous location in the southwest. She could not wait to display the generous portions and savory food that this restaurant is known for serving. Whether it be traditional chicken and waffles, pork chops, ribs, fried catfish or sides of fried cabbage, dirty rice or mac and cheese, you will not leave J’s Place hungry. And if you’re looking for a throw back to your childhood, order that glass of Kool-Aid (cherry or grape). J’s Place is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. If you’re in a rush, not to fear. They prepare meals for pick up on the way home. A casual family restaurant, there is something for everyone and every entrée is served with your choice of two sides and a slice of cornbread. This location also has a large back room that is great for group events.
SIDE ORDERS David on the biscuits: The biscuits were hot, flaky, buttery and just to my liking. I admit to being a bit of a “bread
J’s Place Address: 2681 Calloway Drive Phone: 587-8420 Facebook: J’s Place Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Hungry for more? Check out more food photos on bakersfieldlife.com.
Clockwise: Oxtails, cornbread, yams, catfish, meatloaf and a hot link.
guy,” and I know I took more than my fair share at our table. These homemade biscuits are a new menu item, debuting in January. It is a simple side, which I’m sure will be popular and will complement entrées just as the cornbread now does. Top it off with their homemade four-berry jelly. Vince on the cornbread: If you’re going to have a delicious Southern meal, you know you’re going have a piece or two of cornbread. A definite staple at J’s Place, the cornbread was moist and crumbly with a great buttery flavor that will go great with any entrée you order. Vince on the yams: If you have ever traveled in the Deep South, you have probably had a good helping of sweet potatoes. Whether you call them yams or sweet potatoes, the ones at J’s Place are sweet and melt in your mouth. A classic dish that tastes great. Robert on the mac and cheese: Now who doesn’t love a healthy serving of macaroni and cheese? Adult or kids, every bite of J’s mac and cheese is enjoyable — cheesy goodness that will have you wanting more. Vince on the “dirty” rice: For those wondering why it’s called “dirty” rice, this side of rice gets its color being cooked with ground beef and additional spices. We could not get the full recipe from Bea, who was protecting trade secrets. J’s Place’s dirty rice was excellent. I definitely recommend it if you’re debating on what sides to order with your entrée. Robert on the fried cabbage: The thought of fried cabbage actually intrigued me. I didn’t really know what to expect other than our waitress saying, “Try it; it’s good.” Peach Surprisingly, the cabbage was cobbler great! The cabbage was served in
a small bowl of broth. It was very delicate with a hint of spice and sweetness. The fried cabbage was one of my favorite sides! Jay on J’s greens: You can’t go to a Southern restaurant without trying collard greens. J’s greens are amazing, spiked with spice and a kick of salt. This is how greens are supposed to be served — alive, vigorous and most of all, emerald green.
ENTREES Chris on the chicken and waffles: Any successful soul food restaurant has to deliver a strong chicken and waffles plate. J’s Place knocks it out of the park. The large, homemade waffle has a crunchy, flaky exterior with a soft and tender center. What sets it apart is the hint of cinnamon you get in every bite. The waffle is accompanied with several pieces of seasoned, golden fried chicken. Both the white and dark meat pieces were juicy and crispy without being over-breaded. Co-owner Tina Johnson said the seasoning mix (along with all of the restaurant’s recipes) is a family secret passed down from her mother-in-law, Vicki Hill. The entire dish is then topped off with butter and maple syrup for the ideal sweet and salty contrast. It is definitely not a dish for the faint of heart. Vince on the hot links: These hot links live up to their name and have a good spicy kick. Grilled and topped with their signature barbecue sauce, you will not be disappointed. You can even order the hot links as a sandwich, which is one of J’s
Continued on page 36 bakersfieldlife.com
35
voring and spicy meat, garnished with lettuce, tomatoes and Louisiana hot sauce, I enjoyed every bite. This is a delicious entree that is worth ordering every time. Robert on the fried catfish: I’ve heard so much about how good the catfish is at J’s Place and boy, did it live up to its expectations. As the large plate of food was served, my eyes were immediately drawn to the golden, crispy catfish. I parted the lightly battered fish and immediately smelled and saw the wholesome tender, white, juicy meat. The catfish was not “fishy” at all. Crispy on the outside and tender and flaky inside. I sprinkled a little lemon on my piece, sat back, took another bite and smiled.
DESSERTS
Food Dude Robert Rodriguez shares a laugh with J’s server Bea.
Continued from page 35 Specials. David on the oxtail: After looking over the menu, I was relieved to hear that we were all going to be served variations of “sampler” plates, which would contain different entrees and side dishes. Otherwise, I knew I’d have a difficult time deciding what to order. I raised my hand when our server Bea held up a plate that contained oxtails and homemade biscuits. Her advice to me was to not be shy and to “get y’all a little piece.” And that I did. My pieces of oxtail were very tender and fell off the bone when I touched them with my fork. The portion was generous and not fatty — a problem that I have encountered with oxtail before. I liked the seasoning and light sauce that covered them — it wasn’t overbearing and allowed the flavor of the beef to take center stage. Jay on the meatloaf: J’s meatloaf is listed as one the specials. Other than my mom’s meatloaf, I’ve never been a huge fan; however, this meatloaf is a must-have — full of flavor. While some meatloaf can be dry, this was not. Topped with a tomato sauce, I recommend ordering this with a side of mashed potatoes and their amazing corn. You won’t regret it! Vince on J’s ribs: When eating Southern barbecue, you cannot go wrong with ordering ribs. Topped with a tangy barbecue sauce, the meat was tender and juicy. You will want to savor every bite. Have extra napkins on hand because it can get messy. You can also get the ribs seasoned with a side of sauce. Jay on the tacos: You might be wondering about tacos in a Southern style restaurant, but a soft tortilla filled with fla36
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Chris on the peach cobbler: Peach cobbler is one of my all-time favorite desserts, so I decided to give J’s version a go. The dish was prepared warm with a delicate, pie-like crust that reminds you of something your grandmother would make. The tender peach slices were plump and flavorful without being overly sweet or syrupy. There are hints of nutmeg and other spices in every, gooey bite. I decided to go big and combined mine with a side of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate experience. It was the perfect ending to an incredible meal. Robert on the sock-it-to-me cake: This huge portion of cake is moist and smothered with a layer of buttery cinnamon sugar and white creamy frosting. The cake is light but the frosting is rich. Enough to share, but so good you’re not going to want to. I probably should’ve saved more room for this baby, because BAM! it packs a punch!
A PLACE WORTH TRYING What’s not to love about J’s Place. You will be treated to some Southern hospitality, and get generous helpings of mouthwatering soul food at a reasonable price. Bring the entire family and be ready to eat.
Clockwise: Corn bread, collard greens, catfish, rib, macaroni and cheese.
Meet the 2014 Food Dudes Christopher Berry is a chiropractor and coowner of Advanced Wellness Center in Bakersfield. An area native, he attended Bakersfield High School and Cal State Bakersfield before earning his chiropractic degree. His wife, Stephanie, is a first-grade teacher who works for the Bakersfield City School District. Together, they have two daughters, 6-year-old Avery and 3-year-old Violet. His pastimes include playing hockey, volunteering at his daughter’s school and traveling California to try new cuisines.
Vince Fong is the district director to Congressman Kevin McCarthy. Born and raised in Bakersfield, he attended West High School and received his bachelor’s in political science from UCLA, and a master’s in pub-
lic affairs from Princeton University. Married to his wife, Michelle, Vince says they spend most of their time focused on their two children, Mazzie and Trenton. Vince enjoys running to try to keep up with his son and loves watching sports and hanging out with his two dogs.
out, and, of course, eating. Robert loves to cook and credits his mom for inspiring him as a kid. He also likes spending time with family and friends and volunteering to help coach his son’s baseball team.
David Rous is a physical therapist and vice president of Glinn & Giordano Physical Therapy. A graduate of Bakersfield High School, Bakersfield College and California State Long Beach, he has a bachelor’s in physical therapy, is an orthopedic certified specialist and is a center coordinator of clinical education. When David is not working, he and his wife, Jennifer, enjoy spending time following their three children’s academic and sports endeavors. He also enjoy’s cycling for fun and competitively for local teams.
Robert Rodriguez is the public information officer for the California Highway Patrol, Bakersfield Area. Born and raised in Bakersfield, he is the father of two kids, Caleb, 16, and Isaac, 9. He enjoys cooking, singing, working
Jay Tamsi is president and CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Born and raised in Delano, he is a graduate of Delano High School, Bakersfield College and Cal State Bakersfield, where he obtained his bachelor’s in communications and minor in marketing. A resident of Bakersfield, Jay owns a small business and wears multiple hats in the community, including being president of the Filipino Community and advocating for local businesses, nonprofit and civic organizations. He enjoys spending time with his family (shout-out to nephews, Kobe and Tyler) and friends, volunteering at his parish and listening to great live music!
This is your home. (-#/ ",0/ -""! For 60 years, KDG has offered an unrivaled track record, depth of knowledge, and experience unique to the San Joaquin Valley. Nobody knows you like a neighbor, and nobody can meet your legal needs and achieve successful, cost-effective results like KDG. With more than 40 highly skilled attorneys, KDG provides advanced legal services for matters ranging from business and commercial litigation to business counseling, intellectual property, and corporate and real estate transactions, as well as estate planning and employment law issues.
+ + + ! ' & ) ( $ & 1+ ! . " %
4550 California Avenue, 2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309t 661.395.1000 | 5260 N. Palm Avenue, Suite 201, Fresno, CA 93704t 559.438.4374
bakersfieldlife.com
37
FOOD AND WINE
By Robert Tapia
Photos by April Massirio
W
ine will more than likely play a role in traditional winter comfort food dinners, Super Bowl festivities, and, of course, Valentine’s Day. The staff at Imbibe carefully tastes thousands of wines throughout the year and selects the best of the best at all price Try these five sips ready to be points for your indulged throughout February enjoyment. We’ve assembled a few of our top choices and personal favorites to satisfy and complete that special winter pairing. Cheers.
WINES FOR THE WINTERTIME
Andrew Murray Syrah 2012 ‘Tous Les Jours,’ Santa Ynez ($14.99) The staff at Imbibe has unanimously dubbed this our “House Syrah.” This is hands down one of the best values in the market. The Andrew Murray Syrah is also featured in our recently released Top 100 Wine catalog. This wine displays all the true characteristics of syrah: dark plum, meat, bacon fat, black pepper, lavender, herbs and spices. The wine strikes a fine balance of medium to full body with approachable tannins. We suggest pairing it with ribs, lamb chops, slow roasted tri tip or pulled pork sandwiches. 38
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Lo Nuevo 2019 Old Vine Garnacha, Spain ($10.99)
Carne Humana 2011 Napa Valley Red Wine, ($29.99)
Spain is our choice for solid, well-made wines that over delivers for the money. We discovered this great sipper in late September and it’s become a store favorite. It can be found in our popular “6 for $60” wine section. The grapes for this wine are sourced from “old vines” with an average age of 60 to 80 years. The old stressed vines produce deep, rich, intense flavors found in the Lo Nuevo Garnacha. It’s meant to be enjoyed upon release and displays aromas and flavors of ripe cherry, raspberry and currant. Its bright, fresh fruit flavors are framed by soft accessible tannins. It’s what we commonly refer to in the wine biz as a “Super Bowl wine.” It will pair perfect with pizza, burgers, fried chicken or ribs. And a must-do for the next barbecue you attend.
I love this wine for the fact that the blend is a total reversal of most of the status quo blends out there. It is a little heavy handed with 40 percent petite verdot, 30 percent petite sirah, 10 percent zinfandel, 10 percent syrah, 5 percent cabernet sauvignon and 5 percent charbono — all premium grapes from the sweet spots in Napa. The color of this wine when you pour it in the glass reveals the lopsided blend with its opaque purplish-black color. Give it a swirl or two and embrace the fragrant nose of floral black fruits. Savor the smooth, rich flavors of plums, blackberries, dark cherries and espresso. Pair it up with, what else? Carne.
Susana Balbo 2011 Malbec, Argentina ($21.99) Terraces 2011 Petite Sirah, Napa ($35.99) Petite sirah has come a long way from its supporting cast role in the old field blends, backing up Zinfandel. Petite sirah can sometimes be too tannic or one dimensional, and never really “comes around.” One that never disappoints is the Terraces Petite Sirah. The grapes are sourced from Chiles Valley, a high elevation valley to the east of Napa with a cooler and longer growing season. The Terraces Petite delivers a full bodied punch of blueberry, blackberry, pepper, cloves and spice. I suggest decanting for half an hour. Firm but smooth tannins finish this wine, which begs for a rib eye steak.
The Susana Balbo Malbec is another great example of high quality and affordability. It belongs on the table beside any rich, heavy meat dish. This wine has a deep violet color with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and violets framed by hints of oak and mint. The palate displays ripe plum, toasty vanilla and a hint of chocolate and mint. This wine is complex enough to be taken seriously but also approachable enough to be enjoyed effortlessly. Pair it up with a flat iron steak and chimichurri sauce. — Robert Tapia is the general manager at Imbibe Wine and Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave. (imbibewine.com, 633-9463). bakersfieldlife.com
39
COOKING WITH CHEF ROBERT
By Robert S. Alimirzaie
T
he Super Bowl. It is the biggest sports event of the year, and Super Bowl parties are one of the top at-home party events of the year. Super Bowl parties have become much more than a gathering of football lovers. In fact, many people attending these parties don’t love football as much as they love the excuse to get together with friends. Here are some tips to making this day memorable. Simplicity is the key to having a great party and enjoying it, too. If you expect to have a great time, then the most important thing you can do is prepare in advance. Get as much done ahead of timeas possible so you can enjoy the game with your guests. Here are some recommendations: Choose foods that require little, if any, silverware. Be prepared with plenty of toothpicks and napkins for those finger foods.
PLAN YOUR SUPER BOWL PARTY WITH ALL THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS
Where the Wild Things are.
4125 Peachy Canyon Rd., Paso Robles
6 miles west of Paso Robles | Weekends & By Appt.
www.gillcellars.com | 805-239-1668
40
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Do all your chopping and slicing in advance. Store your food items in sealed containers or bags, ready for your platter. Crockpots are great for keeping foods warm. Borrow extras from your friends. Use for cheese dip, meatballs or sausage Chef Robert links. We also recommend updating your traditional recipes to provide your family and guests with healthy choices. Healthy Super Bowl party food and snacks don’t need to be boring. For more recipes, visit Bakersfieldlife.com or watch Chef Robert prepare lots of Super Bowl recipes on “Live Well” at 10 a.m. on Jan. 29 on Bakersfield.com — Robert Alimizaie is the executive chef and operations manager at the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield.
Phyllo Wrapped Asparagus Ingredients 6 asparagus spears, stems peeled Freshly ground pepper 6 sheets of phyllo dough 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Directions In a saucepan of boiling salted water, blanch the asparagus until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Refresh under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels. Season the asparagus spears with pepper. Lay 1 sheet of the phyllo on a work surface with the short end directly in front of you. Brush it with butter and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese. Set a wrapped asparagus on the short end of the phyllo and roll it up
Best Super Bowl Chicken Kebob
snugly. Brush the roll with butter, dust it lightly with more parmesan and set it on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining ingredients, arranging the rolls at least 2 inches apart on the sheet. Preheat the oven to 400°. Bake the rolls on the top shelf of the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Let the rolls cool slightly before slicing them at an angle into bite-size pieces.
Ingredients 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, (preferably fresh), cut into cubes 1 medium onion, grated 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice 1 teaspoon powdered saffron dissolved in 2-3 tablespoons of hot water 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper
A pinch of red pepper powder (optional) Directions 1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, onion, olive oil, lime juice, liquid saffron, salt and pepper. Blend everything into a smooth mixture, then adjust the seasoning by adding lime juice, salt, and pepper. 2. Pour the mixture over the chicken in a large bowl, making sure that all the pieces are fully covered with the sauce. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for six to eight hours. 3. Thread the chicken pieces onto metal skewers, place the skewers on the hot grill and continue grilling until chicken pieces are well cooked. Or bake in oven at 400 F.
PRESENTS…….
Reserve your seats today!
January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 30 & 31 February 1, 6, 7 & 8
Call 325-6100 or visit www.bmtstars.com bakersfieldlife.com
41
FOODIE
Chef Ray with his finished dessert. 42
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
CHEF RAY INGRAM This pastry chef knows the secret to love — decadent desserts By Hillary Haenes
Photos by April Massirio
C
hef Ray Ingram was only 10 years old when he developed an interest in baking, beginning with Toll House chocolate chip cookies. A few years later, Chef Ray took a home economics class in junior high school to learn to prepare pies, cookies and other delicious sweets. Discovering his passion for baking, Chef Ray enrolled in a two-year program at Los Angeles Trade Technical College, majoring in professional baking. Chef Ray’s career started at a Winchell’s Donuts in Seal Beach before moving onto a Ralph’s grocery store. In the late 1980s, Chef Ray moved to Bakersfield working at Stockdale Country Club, Sheraton 4 Points Hotel and the Holiday Inn Select, among other places. Eventually, Chef Ray decided to give teaching a try, so he took a job as a culinary instructor at OIC Hospitality Training in Indianapolis in 2003. A couple of years later, Chef Ray moved back to Bakersfield and taught at Bakersfield Adult School for awhile before heading to Las Vegas to help open The Bellagio Hotel and Casino. Now, the 48-year-old chef uses his creativity to make unbelievable desserts as the pastry chef at The Petroleum Club of Bakersfield while also teaching culinary classes at Bakersfield College. And just this past fall, Chef Ray launched his Cobbler King business, manufacturing an assortment of peach, apple, blueberry, blackberry, cherry and mixed berry cobblers. Editor’s Note: Chef Ray Ingram also gave us his 5 tips to make your significant other feel special this Valentine’s Day.
Utensils used for preparing the cake.
COOKING ADVICE Baking is important to me because: It is a science that depends on exact measurements and proper food temperatures to ensure the same consistency every time. My go-to ingredients: Butter, flour, sugar, vanilla favoring and eggs. What I buy in bulk: Everything that I possibly can. How I find inspiration to create new desserts: From magazines, food shows, world pastry forums and new products on the market. One ingredient that I love to use in my recipes: Butter makes everything taste better. If I could spend a day with a famous chef, it would be: Jacques Torres because he is truly the godfather of chocolates. Advice I would ask him: How does he find inspiration to make new desserts?
Ingredients for flourless chocolate cake include bittersweet chocolate, butter, sugar, water and eggs.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE My favorite piece of cooking equipment: Hobart Mixer — it is the Cadillac of mixers. Must-have kitchen tools: Measuring cups, rubber spatulas and a good oven.
Continued on page 44 bakersfieldlife.com
43
Continued from page 43 Spice cabinet necessities: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves. Favorite cooking show: Paula Deen’s show and Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Dream kitchen appliance: All Hobart, KitchenAid or Viking appliances.
GLOBE-TROTTING Favorite cuisine: Hmm, good question! The rib-eye or prime rib from Black Angus Steakhouse. Best food memory: AquaKnox Restaurant in Las Vegas. Best culinary destination: New York City’s Peter Luger Steakhouse. Most expensive meal: $125 per person for a winepairing dinner in Las Vegas. Most surprising food I’m not crazy about: Sock-ItTo-Me and pineapple upside down cakes.
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS
Chef Ray pouring the finished batter into cake pans.
Flourless Chocolate Cake Ingredients 1/2 cup water 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup sugar 18 ounces bittersweet chocolate 8 ounces butter, softened 6 eggs Directions Preheat oven to 300°. Grease one 10-inch round cake pan and set aside. In a small sauce pan over medium heat, combine water, salt and sugar. Stir until completely dissolved and set aside. Melt chocolate in double broiler, then pour chocolate into a mixing bowl. Cut butter into pieces and beat the butter into the chocolate, one piece at a time. Beat in the hot sugar-water. Then slowly beat in the eggs, one at a time. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Have a pan larger than the cake pan ready, put the cake pan in the larger pan and fill the pan halfway with hot water. Bake the cake for 30 to 45 minutes. The center will still look wet. Chill the cake overnight in the pan. To unmold, dip the bottom of the pan in hot water for 15 seconds and invert onto a serving plate.
44
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Always in the fridge: Butter, eggs and milk. I’m addicted to: Sugar. I need sugar daily. Comfort food: A Southern cuisine style restaurant like J’s Place. Dessert: Cobblers. Specialty store: Trader Joe’s, Williams-Sonoma and J&E Restaurant Supply. The single tastiest thing I’ve eaten this month: Sweet potato pie.
Powered by her Heartbeat
Chef Ray’s 5 Tips to Make Your Valentine Feel Special 1. Don’t Ignore it Whatever you do, don’t ignore Valentine’s Day by pretending it doesn’t exist, even if you’re busy at work. Maybe you’re not the sensitive type, but if you simply ignore the fact that it’s Valentine’s Day, you’ll probably be coming home to some icy-cold stares. 2. Don’t Spend It with Your Friends This is probably the worst thing you can do, right up there with forgetting a birthday or anniversary. If you decide to spend Valentine’s Day with friends, your loved one will probably be hurt and/or disappointed, even if he or she pretends otherwise. 3. Get Your Companion Something Whether it’s a bouquet of flowers, chocolates, dinner or jewelry, make sure you get your loved one something. Even when your significant other says they don’t want anything or thinks Valentine’s Day is not a big deal, they will still love that you’ve made an effort! 4. Surprise Your Loved One Surprises don’t have to require lots of effort or money. Surprise your companion with a candlelit dinner, a romantic comedy or tell them you’re going to cook (assuming your culinary skills are not awful!). Sending flowers to the workplace usually goes over well — it’s unexpected and thoughtful. 5. Your Undivided Attention Even if you do get your loved one a gift, it’s not going to mean anything if you spend half the night with your mind elsewhere. No one wants a bunch of flowers or a romantic dinner, only to find you’re going to spend the evening watching a favorite TV show or texting friends. The gift of time and attention will score you some serious brownie points. — Chef Ray Ingam, pastry chef at The Petroleum Club of Bakersfield
4b
YOUR CHOICE 14K Diamond Pendant in White, Two-tone Pink or Yellow 1/10 ctw
4a
$
5a 4c
199
699
10K Diamond Pendant 1/2 ctw $
Silver Diamond Pendant 1/8 ctw $
999
I n s t a n t F i n a n c i n g Av a i l a b l e Flexible Small Affordable Payments Instant Approvals
299
Silver Diamond Pendant $
199
JANE’S JEWELERS Where Bakersfield Gets Engaged
Pinterest.com/JanesJewelers
Facebook.com/JanesJewelers
$
299
5c
4e 4d
5b
Silver Diamond Silver Diamond Pendant Earrings $
JanesJewelers.com
5e
Silver Diamond Pendant Silver Diamond 1/8 ctw Pendant $ 5d
$
199
299
587-6242 9530 Hageman Road Corner of Calloway & Hageman Tuesday–Friday 10 am–6 pm Saturday 10 am–3 pm Closed Sunday & Monday
bakersfieldlife.com
45
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
EARTHLY EXPO World Ag Expo, attracting 100,000 people annually, focuses on Central Valley’s bread and butter — agriculture
This year’s World Ag Expo is expected to draw 100,000 people from 70 countries and feature 1,500 exhibitors. 46
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
By Eduardo Gamez
D
rive through California and you’ll quickly see the statewide impact of agriculture right here in the Central Valley — Bakersfield and Kern County included. It’s only fitting that our area plays host to an annual internationallyrenowned agricultural event — the World Ag Expo. The expo — hosted by our neighbors to the north, in Tulare — will take place Feb. 11 to 13, when roughly 100,000 people from 70 countries will join the largest annual agricultural show of its kind.
WORLDLY EVENT While only a small percentage of exhibitors are based locally, including from Bakersfield, a majority of them are international participants, making this truly a world event. Past expos have attracted visitors from regions as far as Japan, China, Italy and Germany. This event is so significant that it has been officially designated by the U.S. Department of Commerce as an affiliate of the Foreign Buyer Program, which encourages the exportation of American goods. Featured exhibitors include California Walnut Board, Duarte Nursery, Inc., Greenspire Global, Inc., Magnation Water and Energy Saving Technologies, and Topcon Precision Agriculture. In all, the sold-out show this year will feature 1,500 exhibitors showing on 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, said Liza Teixeira, director of communications for the World Ag Expo. “This is the first year we will be featuring the World Ag Expo Arena where four shows will take place each day and allows exhibitors to show off their latest products,” Teixeira said.
Continued on page 48
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
World Ag Expo When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 11 and 12; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 13 Where: International Agri-Center, 4500 S. Laspina St. in Tulare Cost: $15 general admission Visitor Notes: Wear comfortable walking shoes, casual clothing and outerwear for possible rain and cold More information: info@farmshow.org, worldagexp.com or 559-688-1030
bakersfieldlife.com
47
Continued on page 47
This will be the first year that the California Walnut Board, which aims to gain more exposure, will participate in the expo, said Nate Samelson, assistant marketing director of the board. “The World Ag Expo provides a great opportunity to present ourselves on a platform to many big industry players,” Samelson said. “And it is important for any agriculture-related business to become involved with this event because it helps each exhibitor gain recognition.” But the expo will host worthwhile opportunities for visitors, too. Among them: An international reception will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Heritage Complex. Other features include a wine and cheese pavilion, agriculture tours, various seminars, and an agriculture video contest with a $3,000 prize.
Exhibitors can place their products in front of many industry heavyweights at the World Ag Expo.
HSC is proud to announce the opening of our High Pressure Iron Testing and Recertification Facility for our Bakersfield Branch. HSC has industry certified technicians to serve all of your equipment needs to ensure that your equipment is safe and free of washout and corrosion. INSPECTIONS INCLUDE 1. VISUAL INSPECTION - Looking for wash out and corrosion that’s identifiable to the naked eye. 2. ULTRA SONIC THICKNESS TEST - A gauging process used to identify thickness of metal. 3. MAGNETIC PARTICLE INSPECTION - An inspection using magnetic particles to identify cracks and discontinuities in metal. 4. HYDROSTATIC TESTING-Pressure test using air and water. Plug valves - ball valves - swivel joints - pup joints fittings - vessels - temporary piping -manifolds - flanges welds - down hole tools -pumps
Bakersfield (661) 324-9721
3824 Buck Owens Blvd, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Ventura (805) 641-3002
4300 N. Ventura Ave, Ventura, CA 93001
www.Howard-Supply.com 48
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
EXPOSURE AND OPPORTUNITIES
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
MARDI GRAS MERRINESS! Celebrate ‘Fat Tuesday’ in town with cajun food, fundraising barbecues and themed parties By Eduardo Gamez
C
olorful beads, eccentric costumes, parades — it’s time for Mardi Gras! Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” falls on March 4 this year, and it’s the celebratory day before the Catholic tradition known as Lent officially starts. Go ahead and skip New Orleans. Here are five ways to celebrate the Bakersfield way.
CAJUN CELEBRATION For the 16th year, The Prime Cut will be bringing in Mardi Gras with an authentic Cajun experience. The celebration will feature a special menu on March 4, during regular business hours, and the restaurant will be decorated to fit the party mood. — 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413
RELIGIOUS REUNION What better way to celebrate this religious holiday than with a church? Our Lady of Perpetual Help will host its Mardi Gras-themed family barbecue fundraiser from 12 to 9 p.m., Feb. 16 at the Kern County Fairgrounds, featuring booths, entertainment, and food. Admission and parking are free, and the celebration will take place in Building 3. — More information: 872-1543 or 833-4900
GREEK GOOD TIMES Go Greek for Mardi Gras at Goose Loonies, featuring food from an extended Mardi Gras-themed menu, elaborate decorations, and more in addition to its beloved bar and Greek fare. This family-style restaurant has something for everyone, especially those who would like to celebrate Mardi Gras throughout the entire month — beginning late February and into early March. — 816 18th St., 631-1242 50
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
CONDORS FUN Indulge before Ash Wednesday with a good time while supporting our own Bakersfield Condors. On March 4, the Condors, will face off against the Stockton Thunder at the Rabobank Arena, presented by Bright House Networks and HOT 94.1. The night will feature $1 hot dogs and half price beers. And all Bright House subscribers can receive up to four free tickets by presenting a billing statement at the box office. The puck drops at 7 p.m., and tickets are as low as $10. — Rabobank Arena; 1001 Truxtun Ave.; 852-7300; rabobankarena.com
MENTO BURU MAGIC Party at Buck’s place! For the third consecutive year, Mento Buru will perform for a Mardi Gras celebration — Fat Tuesday Party — at the Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. Expect vibrant music, colorful decorations, and food set to fit the Fat Tuesday mood, but with a Bakersfield flair. The party is from 5 to 10 p.m., and guests are expected to dress to impress. For more information, search “Fat Tuesday Party with Mento Buru” on Facebook. — 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 328-7560
Authentic Flavors, Affordable Elegant Dining
THAI FOOD
SPECIAL VALENTINES WEEKEND THURSDAY 2/13 - SATURDAY 2/15 LIVE MUSIC SPECIAL LINEN AND ROSES CALL FOR RESERVATIONS
HAPPY HOUR Monday – Thursday 2PM – 5PM
4560 Coffee Road 661-588-7503
Coffee & Hageman Vons Shopping Center www.fabriejewelers.com bakersfieldlife.com
51
HOMETOWN HERO
Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
Photos courtesy of Ian Irvine
I
an Irvine, a 1995 graduate of Stockdale High School, has served in the U.S. Air Force for more than 13 years. He has been stationed in California, Texas, Mississippi and Arizona, where he’s stationed today. As a Major, he evaluates student pilots. He credits his mother, Mary Anne Walz, with encouraging him to attend college, pursue a commission in the Air Force and become a pilot. His family includes his wife, Paula, and two sons, Paul and Philip. Why I joined: An Air Force recruiter visited campus during my senior year at Stockdale High School to explain how ROTC scholarships could help pay for college and lead to a career as an Air Force officer. The opportunities as an officer in the Air Force and the pride in serving led me to join after I finished college. Current assignment? I am an EC-130H evaluator pilot and the 55th Electronic Combat Group Chief of Standardization and Evaluations at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz. I am in charge of the programs and policies used to evaluate our air crew in the EC-130H Compass Call. Favorite location visited as a service member: I have been fortunate to see many different locations around
MAJ. IAN IRVINE
U.S. Air Force
Ian Irvine is currently in charge of programs and policies used to evaluate air crew. the world, but nothing compares to the natural beauty in our own country. I’ve seen every corner of the United States, from the Pacific Northwest to Niagara Falls, Key West and the Rocky Mountains. What I miss most about Bakersfield: Most of all, I miss living near my family. Favorite thing to do when in town: Besides visiting my family, I’d have to say enjoying restaurants you can only find in Bakersfield, like Luigi’s and 24th Street Cafe. Most notable accomplishments: In my time as an instructor pilot at Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training, I 52
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Ian Irvine, a 1995 graduate of Stockdale High School, has served in the U.S. Air Force for more than 13 years. helped many student pilots graduate and earn their wings. There is an extreme amount of job satisfaction in teaching young people achieve their dreams to become Air Force pilots and fly in the military. Biggest challenge in the Air Force: The biggest challenge has been dealing with the time away from my wife and two sons while deployed. What I have gained from the Air Force: The Air Force has taught me that there are no limits to what motivated Americans can accomplish together. I have witnessed firsthand the great dedication of our young Airmen under challenging circumstances. Plans after the Air Force: I plan to stay for 20 years if they’ll let me. Eventually, I’d like to go on long vacations with my wife and sons to Costa Rica, but I know we’ll make it back to Bakersfield often.
Irvine is ready for takeoff.
— Do you know a Kern County resident who has served honorably in the military or is currently serving? Email us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Hometown Hero. Please include an email, phone number and/or Facebook link to reach the nominee.
SEE THE FULL 2014 MITSUBISHI LINEUP
OUTLANDER SPORT / OUTLANDER
Check out the exciting 2014 Mitsubishi lineup including the all-new Mirage The most fuel efficient gasoline-powered non-hybrid vehicle in America.+
+Based on EPA combined mileage rating of 40 mpg
4600 WIBLE ROAD In the Automall 661-617-2309 www.bakersfieldmitsubishi.com
ON THE ROAD
2014 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER Seven-seater packs fuel efficiency, style and award-winning safety in one compact crossover SUV
Bakersfield Life assistant editor Jorge Barrientos walks his wife, Carla, back to the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander after a day at the mall.
By Jorge Barrientos
Photos by Michael Lopez
I
t seats seven comfortably, looks stylish, offers awardwinning safety, and gets tremendous fuel efficiency. “It’s the best of all worlds,” said Franklin Simmons, a sales consultant at Bakersfield Mitsubishi. “That’s the reason they’re selling like crazy.” What is it exactly? It’s the newly redesigned 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander. In fact, December saw Mitsubishi’s best sales numbers in seven years, according to Mitsubishi, and sales were up nearly 30 percent from July through December compared to the prior year. NASDAQ reported that sales in December increased 56 percent from last year, and sales growth was mostly contributed by the U.S.-built Outlander. For the Outlander alone, sales surged 102 percent over last year. Why are they so hot? “We believe customers are growing in confidence that Mitsubishi offers a unique combination of safety and fuel efficiency in our vehicles,” said Mitsubishi Motors North America president and CEO Yoichi Yokozawa in a news release. “These are attributes of our brand that will resonate with consumers into 2014 and beyond.” I drove around the Outlander for a weekend and experienced firsthand its fuel efficiency, spaciousness and comfortability, safety features and other perks. To start, the 2014 Outlander’s design is new, bumper-to54
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
The technology and audio systems in the Outlander are top notch.
The Outlander offers four different driving modes.
The Outlander features a 7-inch touchscreen display. All seats fold down to create a large storage area.
It’s all in the details bumper, with a fresh exterior and interior. It looks sleek, attractive and is eye-catching. Inside is equally impressive, flaunting leather, but “not your grandma’s leather,” Simmons said. It’s breathable, easy to clean and elegant. The car seats seven comfortably, and Simmons and I — both 6 feet tall — could fit nicely in the back seats. Simmons said some folks stuffed Christmas trees in Outlander during December, as all rows can fold down flat. Seats are also adjustable in every direction for maximum comfort. The technology and audio system is among the best I’ve seen and heard in my test drives. Sync up to six phones using the interactive and easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen display, with navigation and backup camera. And the Rockford Fosgate audio system is top notch. And safety is where Outlander truly shines. Among its awards so far — and the one local Mitsubishi representatives are most proud of — is the Outlander’s “Top Safety Pick” award by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. And that came after the institute tightened its criteria for the award, making it more difficult to win, according to news reports. Among its safety features are Active Stability Control, automatic braking and lane-departure warning, energy absorbing technology and seven standard airbags. It also has a sophisticated allwheel-drive system that’s very adept in bad weather. Folks in Tehachapi have snagged a few Outlander to help them deal with the snow, Franklin said. It offers various driving modes, where you’re able to transfer driving power from slipping to gripping wheels on the Outlander. Four electronically selectable driving modes include normal, snow, lock for off-road ventures, and all-wheel control eco. The GT-S-AWC model I drove had a 3-liter, 24-valve V6 engine. The fuel economy is spectacular, and excels in the mileage department — with 28 mpg on the highway. Not bad at all for an SUV. The warranty is impressive, too — 10 year, 100,000-mile drivetrain and five years of roadside, for starters. Other features include paddle shifters for manual shifting, HID headlights, heated and cooling seats and an automatic liftgate. In all, this compact crossover — a highly competitive market — easily competes against its formidable foes.
Mileage: 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway (for V6 3-liter, 224 horsepower, 6 speed auto transmission) Price tag: Starting at $27,795 What makes the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander stand out from others? A very economical seven-passenger All Wheel Control mid-sized SUV with great gas mileage and with a huge 10-year, 100,000-mile power train warranty. 5 best features: 1. Seven-passenger seating 2. Lane Departure Warning system. 3. Forward Collision Mitigation system. 4. Adaptive Cruise Control 5. 2014 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “Top Safety Pick” Target customer: The customer who needs the space but doesn’t want to sacrifice gas mileage. The customer who wants a versatile family vehicle but also a daily driver. The customer who wants a fun vehicle that everyone in the family will want to drive. The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is perfect for… large families, small families, families with pets, everyday driving, camping, and the list goes on. Three words that define the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander: Spacious, sporty and smart. What do you like most about the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander? The Magnesium paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel that are totally fun to use when you want to manual shift. The comfortable seating, being able to have a clear view of the road, and the power response, along with the handling capabilities.
Source: Franklin Simmons, internet sales/special finance manager with Bakersfield Mitsubishi.
bakersfieldlife.com
55
ON THE ROAD
NISSAN ROGUE DELIVERS SOLID PERFORMANCE Nissan Rogue offers five camera views, plenty of safety By Olivia Garcia
Photos by Mark Nessia
T
he smaller SUVs and crossover models continue to get better over time, and the 2014 Nissan Rogue SL is a perfect example. It’s been a couple of weeks since the 2014 model arrived at the Bakersfield Nissan location, and it took me awhile to schedule a test drive because every time one arrived, it quickly sold. Luckily, I was able to secure a test drive just after the New Year holiday. Nissan recently launched a major awareness campaign of the Rogue so I was indeed interested in knowing more about it after seeing commercials and video clips about it. Car and Driver praised the Rogue for its mileage (33 highway and 26 city for an average of 28 miles per gallon), plenty of seat coverage and ample features to accommodate the tech-minded adult or child. “To coddle soccer teams and growing families on road trips, the second-row seats recline and slide fore-and-aft nine inches, and every nook and cranny is equipped with a bottle holder, media connector, or some gadget to play with,” according to the Car and Driver article.
Bakersfield Life editor Olivia Garcia and her son, Mateo, with the 2014 Nissan Rogue. 56
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Steering wheel controls allow drivers to adjust speaker volumes and answer calls without taking their hands off the wheel. The HUD options include a rear-view camera and overhead display to help drivers see what’s in their blind spots on a full-color 7-inch screen.
It’s all in the details Five best features about the 2014 Nissan Rogue SL 1. NissanConnect uses hands-free technology, your smartphone,
USA Today noted that the Nissan Rogue propelled itself to one of the top-selling Nissan models since its launch. The Japanese automaker also looked to its Smyrna, Tennessee plant to assemble the Rogue in the U.S., according to Automobile Magazine. Johnny Ramon, a leasing and sales consultant of Nissan of Bakersfield, listed a number of favorite features, including heated front seats, Bluetooth audio, rear-view back-up camera, LED headlights, heated mirrors, and dual zone temperature controls. The Power Panoramic Moonroof adds a bit of style to the Rogue and the round-view monitor system is definitely an A+. Most cars come with a camera built in so you can see the rear. But the Nissan Rogue 2014 comes with five built-in cameras to capture not only the rear but also the side views and front area — all at once if you prefer. And you have two options. In one case, you can see the rear and the right side blind spot, or you can see the car all around. “In the U.S., the Rogue is a top seller,” Ramon said. “It is a ecofriendly car.” However, safety is also a priority with the smart systems that cover the following: forward collision warning, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, and moving object detection. If you are looking for a strong response, the Rogue also comes with a vehicle dynamic control, a traction control system, anti-lock braking system, brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution (which sends extra force to the rear brakes when your cargo is filled with passengers or extra gear). Many new cars also come with apps that provide plenty of car information and access and the Rogue does not disappoint. Depending on your smartphone device, the Nissan Connect app will allow you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone’s music apps or playlist. In addition, you can be connected to your social media and in working with the Nissan navigation system, the technology will allow you to access online searches powered by Google and Yelp, so getting around becomes much easier. Live weather and traffic information is also shared. And who could complain abour the Rogue’s Bose sound system? (That’s my brand of choice). Ramon also noted the third-row option, which can increase the passenger capacity to seven. A power liftgate feature also makes it easier to load in gear or groceries. And if you need more space, then fold down one of the second row seats to gain about eight extra feet.
and your Nissan’s display screen to help you stay in touch with the outside world from inside your vehicle. It’s loaded with features and a growing list of apps that let you play your music, keep tabs on your social network, and navigate any city like a local. 2. The innovative Divide-N-Hide Cargo System can be configured into a private storage space to keep your valuables organized and out of sight, a lower deck to handle taller items, and an upper shelf for yet another type of cargo. With 18 different configurations, the storage possibilities are endless. 3. Zero gravity and quick comfort heated seats. Inspired by NASA and zero gravity space travel, these remarkably comfortable front seats were built to maximize comfort while minimizing fatigue. The Quick Comfort Heated Front Seats work fast, but they don’t simply heat up the entire seat at once. They’re designed to follow the same warming-up sequence that your body does. 4. Around View Monitor uses cameras in the front, rear, and side mirrors to build a composite overhead view of your Rogue and your immediate surroundings. 5. Class-Exclusive Safety Shield of Technologies: Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Moving Object Detection.
City and highway mileage? Best in class, 33 MPG highway; 26 MPG city.
The 2014 Nissan Rogue is perfect for… a customer looking for a fuel-efficient roomy crossover with a newly designed aggressive body style.
What makes the 2014 Nissan Rogue SL stand out from others: An inviting spacious cabin with a class exclusive thirdrow option, and best in class fuel economy separates the Nissan Rogue from other crossovers in its class.
Target customer: Nissan Rogue new body style platform targets the family buyer.
Three words that define the 2014 Nissan Rogue SL: Fuel-efficient, roomy, and innovative technology safety features.
What do you like the most about the 2014 Nissan Rogue SL: I like the new aggressive look, extra cabin space, and all the new features equipped in the 2014 Rogue like Bluetooth, navigation system, back-up camera and around-view monitor. Being able to access apps like Dacebook, Google and Pandora on the seven-inch display on the dash is pretty cool, too. Source: Johnny Ramon, Leasing and Sales consultant, Nissan of Bakersfield.
bakersfieldlife.com
57
The All New 2014 Nissan Rogue
Nissan of Bakersfield 661.835.8600 • 2800 Pacheco Rd. In the Bakersfield Auto Mall nissanofbakersfield.com
WHY I LIVE HERE
STEFANO MAZZONI From Rome to San Diego, and Houston to Bakersfield, geologist enjoys ‘value’ of Central Valley life
S
tefano Mazzoni was born in Rome and moved to San Diego with his family as a youngster. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from UC San Diego and master’s degree from UC Santa Cruz, he moved to Houston in 2002, to start his career as a petroleum geologist. In 2008, he moved to Bakersfield and now works for Occidental Petroleum Corp. Neighborhood: Southwest Bakersfield. How I relax in Bakersfield: I enjoy a walk with the family on the Kern River Parkway and possibly stop to enjoy a pint on the Eureka Burger patio. Initial thoughts about Bakersfield after moving here: I was glad to be back in California and away from the humidity and mosquitoes of the Gulf Coast. Also, such a central location in California allows for excellent weekend getaways. Where I vacation: Some of our favorite destinations are Mammoth Mountain, Morro Bay, Santa Barbara, San Diego and the Bay Area. Interesting fact: When we moved here in 2008, I started a weekly “happy hour” list with about 10 people we already knew here. Now, it’s grown to more than 700 people! It’s a great way to meet new people in our industry and in the community. What list I think Bakersfield should rank at the top: Best value of living in California because it has a great balance of
local community events and proximity to larger destinations, without the higher cost of living found in other parts of California. What I have seen in Bakersfield that I haven’t seen anywhere else: A pumping unit in a parking lot, the massive dairies, and an airport where you can park less than 100 feet from the gate. What surprises me about Bakersfield: There is a good relationship between “newcomers” and the longtime Bakersfield natives. There is a strong sense of community within and between these groups. Favorite community event: First Friday downtown and CALM HolidayLights. Favorite restaurant: La Costa Mariscos, Miyoshi Japanese Restaurant and Alfonso’s Taco Shop. Bakersfield’s best kept secret: The back patio at The Crest Bar & Grill and the garden patio at Village Grill. What I like most about living here: The convenience of a small town — no traffic and easy parking — with the advantages of a bigger city that include a visual and performing arts scene, community events and all the necessary shopping. — Do you know someone from outside of town, state or country who now calls Bakersfield home and is proud of it? Please let us know. Email us a name and contact information to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the message subject line: Why I Live Here.
bakersfieldlife.com
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
Compiled by Eduardo Gamez
59
A L L-S TA R AT H L E T E
By Stephen Lynch
I
n a sport dominated by giants, Sam Marcus is a rarity. Despite being only 5-feet, 8-inches tall, the Bakersfield native is a highly successful college basketball player, starting at point guard for Cal State Stanislaus. The former Liberty High standout is averaging 6 points and a team-leading 4.2 assists per game for a Warriors squad that began the season 7-3 and is a contender for the California Colligate Athletic Association championship. As the team’s point guard, Marcus’ No. 1 focus is to run the Stanislaus offense and use his stellar passing skills to get the ball to teammates in position for them to score. Marcus, a very good scorer in high school, said he enjoys his role as the
SAM MARCUS
Liberty High basketball standout helping Cal State Stanislaus become a championship contender
Warriors main offensive facilitator. “I actually have the easy part of just passing them the ball,” Marcus said. “They do the hard part. They finish. It’s really a blessing for me to be on this team because I’ve never been on a team with a group of guys where we can go talk to each other whenever we want and have a good time.” The second of four basketball playing brothers, Marcus began his hoops career at 5 years old, playing at the YMCA. Several years later, he played Amateur Athletic Union basketball and then at Liberty High, where he was a two-time First Team All-Area selection. His senior year, he led the Patriots to the Central Section Division II championship. Marcus’ goals for this year include helping the Warriors win a CCAA title and the NCAA Division II championship. “I think with this team, we’re more than capable of doing it,” Marcus said. “We just have to stay focused and stay hungry.” The highlight of Marcus college career so far came on Dec. 6, 2012, when he nailed a runner in the lane at the final buzzer to beat Chico State. That shot capped off a career-high 22-point night for Marcus. Much of his success can be attributed to his strong drive to succeed in spite of his short stature, he said. “My motivation has just been, whenever I see someone small make it and they interview them on the news, they would always say, ‘Don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t do something,’” Marcus said. “I’ve always told myself, ‘If they can make it, why not me?’”
Facts: Sam Marcus Born Jan. 20, 1992 in Redwood City. Parents are Dave and Marissa Marcus. Three brothers include Joe, Mike and Aaron. Mike plays basketball at Bakersfield College and Aaron at Liberty High. Moved to Bakersfield when he was 2 years old. Two-time All-SEYL and All-Area honoree in high school.
Cal State Stanislaus point guard Sam Marcus looks to drive in a game against Simon Fraser earlier this season. 60
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO BY MARTY BICEK, CSU STANISLAUS
MVP of the SEYL in 2009. Four-year honor student at Liberty High. Career highs at Stanislaus: 22 points, 11 assists, 5 rebounds and 3 steals. Plans on playing professional basketball in the Philippines after college graduation and hopes to eventually play in the NBA. Major is business administration. Favorite things to do when not playing basketball: Going to the movies and staying active.
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
TA L K O F T H E TO W N
Ruth Greasham, left, and Phyllis Gutierrez take a break from a reading lesson at the Kern Adult Literacy Council.
WRESTLING FOR READERS Newest Kern Adult Literacy Council executive director chats about fight against low literacy rates Compiled by Bakersfield Life Magazine
I
t’s no secret that Bakersfield and Kern County rank among the lowest across the state in literacy rates. Fortunately, the Kern Adult Literacy Council is fighting to turn that around one reader at a time. Its newest executive director, Jeff Nickell, a native of Bakersfield and longtime contributor to Bakersfield Life,
62
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
spoke with us about how the council is doing just that, and how you can help, too. How is the council addressing the issue of literacy? From many angles. We have the tried-and-true one-onone tutoring programs for adult basic education, English as a second language and GED preparation. We have also begun family literacy offerings and have partnered with the Bakersfield Adult School via The Bakersfield Californian Foundation grant to teach reading strategies to parents, and then observe them reading to their children. We are also utilizing software and online systems to help us more efficiently and effectively track our clients, and know at all times what their needs are, and what we can do to best help them. Lastly, we are teaming up with countless partners to expand the reach of the literacy council.
Continued on page 64
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
Jeff Nickell, executive director of the Kern Adult Literacy Council, with his wife, Katie.
Always a truck in your neighborhood!
Go With the Flow!
HELP US
ONE SQUARE FOOT AT A TIME.
Kohler single-control, si pull-out cchrome-finish kitch kitchen sink faucets.
Ko Kohler Forte Koh Kohler Coralais Y Your Choice Only O $359 Installed Get a $30 OFF coupon on our website! Financing Available (OAC)
Support the Hoffmann Hospice “Fund-A-Foot” campaign and we’ll carve your name in stone. We’re building a state-of-the-art hospice home right here in Bakersfield. To find out how you can secure your tax deductible square foot visitDwww.hoffmannhospice.org.
3100 East Belle Terrace, Bakersfield
Call (661) 324-2121 hpsplumbingservices.com CA Lic. #793014 Licensed, Insured s r
r
661-410-1010
TM
Honesty. Professionalism. Service.
bakersfieldlife.com
63
Continued from page 62 What are some of the biggest challenges? The Kern Adult Literacy has a small staff of three and a small budget under $200,000. It is necessary to increase our budget so we can purchase sufficient learning materials and hire more staff to effectively offer services throughout Kern County. The staff manages the programs and tutors. With an executive director, program coordinator, and administrative assistant, we simply cannot be everywhere at once. And the organization would not exist without our tremendous volunteers. We currently have 112 volunteers, who tutor more than 1,200 hours together each month. But we can always use more. To volunteer, call 324-3213 or email info@kernalc.org. Can you share some stories of people who have improved their lives thanks to the literacy council? I have three examples of what the Literacy Council can do to improve Kern County residents lives:
• Jacqueline and Vincencio were having trouble passing the math portion of the GED test, even after going to
64
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
the Bakersfield Adult School. They were referred to the literacy council, and with the help of tutor Jesus Zalvala, I am proud to say they passed their GED exam. • Alan had a severe accident that caused him to have to do things over and over, including reading. He is now reading at a sixth-grade level and even read in front of an audience during the One Book festivities. He is being tutored by Raymond Mars. • Aranzazu has been helped by Betty Herrera with English as a Second Language, especially with annunciation and idioms. But, she also helped her pass her citizenship test. What other programs/events does the literacy council offer? We are working with the City of Delano, Delano Joint Unified High School District and Delano Union School District to develop a pilot program featuring a multi-layered approach to tutoring. High school students will tutor elementary students and upper level high school students will tutor parents of elementary students. Of course, adult volunteers will also tutor the parents. This is an exciting pro-
gram that can be utilized throughout Kern County once proven successful. The council also holds its largest fundraiser, Read for Life Gala, each April. At the event, the “Literacy for Life Award” is given to a person or company who has helped further the mission of the council. The event has silent and live auctions items, as well as wonderful food and drink. It is in the planning stages. And, this year we will partner with Cal State Bakersfield in the Festival of Books. Stay tuned for details. What are the goals for 2014? 1) Increase the number of students/clients being served to move Bakersfield and Kern County to higher literacy rates. 2) Increase the numbers of tutors to keep par with our increase in students/clients. 3) Increase the number of towns/communities we are helping. 4) Increase our partnerships — they are growing rapidly. 5) Increase our donors/budget so we can add staff and purchase the teaching materials/office supplies we need to be successful.
Experience Bakersfield’s Finest Private Business & Social Club Exquisite dining, impeccable service, astounding views and plenty of style far above the rest.
What are your favorite books? I like Orson Welles’ “War of the Worlds,” “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” and “The Invisible Man.” And, of course, the timeless “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls.
FEATURING
Private Gym and Lockers, Meeting Rooms, Exclusive Bar, Banquet/Event Rooms, Reciprocal Membership Access to Sundale Country Club and Bakersfield Racquet Club, and nearly 750 Clubs Worldwide
For Membership Informaton and to Schedule a Tour, Call 324-6561
bakersfieldlife.com
65
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
FOR A CAUSE
Corinne Ruiz cradles a photo of her daughter, Olivia, left, taken just a week before she died of a sudden heart attack at the age of 14.
A MOTHER’S HEART Mother finds strength through local advocacy after the unexpected death of her daughter By Kelly Damian
C
orinne Ruiz remembers very clearly the moment she decided to kill herself. It was a warm night, and she went outside to sit on her back patio. In one hand, she held a bottle of sleeping pills and in the other, a glass of wine. If she went asleep forever, she told herself, she would never have to wake up without her daughter again. Her husband, Xavier, heard Corinne sobbing and went outside to check on her. She remembers him shouting, “What about me, your son, your mother?” They cried together that night, and she promised him that she would keep on trying to figure out a way to live without her youngest child. 66
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
LIFE CUT SHORT Olivia Ruiz died April 12, 2004 of sudden cardiac arrest, which is different from a heart attack. A sudden cardiac arrest can be understood as an “electrical” problem. The heart stops beating, the victim loses consciousness and quickly dies without treatment. A seemingly healthy and active 14-year-old, her family never suspected Olivia had a heart condition. However, a few weeks prior to her death, she complained of heart palpitations, lightheadedness and chest pain. Corinne took Olivia to see their doctor. Attributing her symptoms to stress, he admonished Olivia to relax and sent her home without doing an EKG.
FINDING FOCUS At the time she was suicidal, Corinne was befriended online by a woman in Indiana named Jackie Renfrow. Jackie lost two children to sudden cardiac arrest, and she was able to comprehend Corinne’s loss in a way that few could. “Jackie saved me,” Corinne said. As their friendship deepened, Jackie encouraged Corinne to tell her daughter’s story, to do something to
PHOTO COURTESY OF CORINNE RUIZ
Olivia poses with her stepfather, Xavier in this 2003 picture.
honor Olivia’s life. Jackie had founded the Indiana chapter of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association, and she inspired Corinne to start a chapter here in Bakersfield. In 2010, she did just that. The local chapter has trained about 3,000 local residents in proper CPR techniques in the last three years, Corinne estimates. Additionally, the organization has gotten nine automatic external defibrillators, or AEDs, donated to Kern County schools and churches. In an effort to keep funds raised here in the community, Corrinne has formed her own foundation, Olivia’s Heart Project.
FUTURE WORK Now that Kern High District has implemented AEDs districtwide, Corinne will be expanding her work. Along with getting AEDs installed in local middle schools, her goal for 2014 is to provide free heart screenings to 1,000 Kern County children, ages 12 to 24. At the heart screenings, young people will fill out a questionnaire, receive an EKG that will be read by a cardiologist, and will be instructed in CPR and proper AED use. A similar program is run by The Nick of Time Foundation in Seattle. Darla Varentti, the program’s director, reported that since starting screenings in 2010, doctors have found about 300 students who needed treatment for a variety of previously undetected heart problems.
STRENGTH IN THE FACE OF GRIEF Corinne still misses her daughter every day, she said. “Grief comes at you like a huge wave,” she said. “It hits you and you’re back down again, drowning.” Her work with the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Association, and now Olivia’s Heart Project, brings joy and purpose to her life. Before she was taken off life support, one of Olivia’s corneas was given to a 2-year-old girl, and the other to a young man in Texas. Her valves, which were healthy, were given to a little boy who, Corinne said, is alive today, thanks to Olivia’s heart. Corinne believes that in her passing, her outgoing and charismatic daughter gave something to Corinne, too. A lifelong introvert, Corrine never could have imagined that she could be a community activist. “After Olivia died, a seed of strength was planted in me, and it has started to grow,” she said. “I never thought it would be possible to say I survived, but I have.” bakersfieldlife.com
67
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
Pat Papasergia standing in the Kern River near Hart Park. 68
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Rock climbing, hunting, mountain biking, fishing — local men share how they conquer the earth
Men
Great Outdoors
and the B
Y
M
A R K
N
E S S I A
F
ew things provide a release from the stresses of everyday life like the great outdoors. The fresh air, peaceful sounds and lush scenery are enough to warrant a trip. Throw in some family and friends, and results are tales of camaraderie, a rejuvenated mind, body and soul, and memories that will last a lifetime. Four local men shared with Bakersfield Life exactly how they relish in the great outdoors. Continued on page 71 bakersfieldlife.com
69
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
Marc Schiffhauer riding the trails above Hart Park. 70
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Continued from page 69
A longtime avid rock climber, Schiffhauer has found a new addiction.
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
Searching for the perfect trail What started as a means of expediting the approach to a rock climbing spot quickly developed into a new interest for Marc Schiffhauer. After an invite to do a “real ride” with friends back in 2008, Schiffhauer soon found himself with a new bike and a new addiction. For Schiffhauer, 44, mountain biking allows him to have an incredible amount of fun while providing a great and often intense exercise. Schiffhauer doesn’t yearn for the long, uphill climbs but craves the reward that follows — the downhill ride. “It’s an amazing, sometimes indescribable feeling bombing down a trail,” Schiffhauer said. Mixing it up to keep things fresh and interesting, Schiffhauer, has taken his bike on numerous trails in Kern Canyon, Santa Barbara, the Sierras, Utah and more. But one trail in particular, the Avatar Trail in the Sierras, has Schiffhauer coming back. The two-mile trail winds through large groves of giant sequoias and has everything from fast, flowy sections, to techy rock gardens. “It makes for not only a great trail to ride but simply a great place to be,” Schiffhauer said.
Continued on page 73
BAKERSFIELD
CHRYSLER JEEP
®
3101 Cattle Drive • Bakersfield Auto Mall • (661) 832-3000 www.drivecj.com bakersfieldlife.com
71
72
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
Jeff Thompson and his 3-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Zinfandel.
“Today’s technology with good old-fashioned integrity”
Continued from page 71 Eventually, Schiffhauer wants to take his bike to another continent and ride in an environment unlike anything he’s ridden in before. “Preferably beginning at a high altitude, with glaciers and tall, jagged peaks as a backdrop, and eventually ending up at low altitude in some beautiful green valley with a river or lake,” Schiffhauer said. “It sounds wonderful and hopefully, one day, I can find that trail.”
Esttabli EEstablished blish i hed d 1900 1900
Lic. Lic 1338 1338
PLUMBING G HEATING H G AIR A CONDITIONING h www.gundlachsservice.com
(661) 327-3052
FREE Trip or
Diagnostic Charge
$49 Value
Thompson and Zinfandel share an afternoon at El Cinco Duck Club.
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
Valid in Conjunction with Flat Rate Repair *Residential dential customers only. Cannot be used with any other coupons or offers. off Must present coupon at time of service; Offer not valid for any previous repair repairs.
THANK YOU BAKERSFIELD for your more than 50 years of support
A hunting tradition Venturing out in the dark — 90 minutes before the sun rises — with a 40-pound pack on his back, Jeff Thompson makes his way to the formal blind, his 3-year-old Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Zinfandel, leading the way, keeping skunks and other varmints at bay. Once blinds are drawn and decoys are placed (depending on wind and previous flight patterns), they wait. They wait for ducks to come. They wait for “shooting time.” This is a typical start to a hunt for Thompson and the other members of El Cinco, a duck club that’s been around since 1905. Thompson, 66, developed a love for hunting at a young age, going on regular trips with his dad and uncles when he was 5 — something he has in common with many members of El Cinco. “We have hunted all of our lives, so the tradition continues,” Thompson said. “Most of us have been in the club for at least 25 years, some much longer than that.” The camaraderie is what Thompson enjoys most about hunting and being a member of El Cinco. The 13 owners and five associates have meals twice a week, from October to late January, at their clubhouse 20 miles northwest of Wasco. Members take turns cooking, and can bring a guest to every meal and shoot. Eventually, traditions are passed on to the next generation. “We raise a lot of sons and young people at the duck club,” Thompson said. “It takes a village to raise a child.”
Continued on page 74
SURPLUS INC. AND SPECIALTY METALS Your One Source For All Your Pipe and Steel Needs at the Best Price!
• Steel • Pipe • Wire Surplus Products Aluminum, Stainless Remnants -- We Deliver -Fast, Friendly Service Se Habla Español
(661) 589-0381 7020 Rosedale Highway Monday-Friday 7 to 5 • Saturday 7 ‘til Noon bakersfieldlife.com
73
Continued from page 73
Fishing takes patience. Pat Papasergia learned this the hard way when he was 12 years old, fishing with his dad at Lake Lizzie in Minnesota. Papasergia kept miss-setting the hook, his dad laughing at him every time. The last time he tried to set the hook, the lead weight and hook came out of the fish’s mouth and the weight hit him on the head. “My dad couldn’t stop laughing,” Papasergia said. “I was very frustrated. That was probably the first experience I remember fishing with my dad.” That patience paid off when Papasergia, 53, took his own son fishing in Lake Tahoe. While fishing for trout, Papasergia’s 6-yearold son Adam attempted to reel in a fish. After struggling back and forth, he told his father he couldn’t reel it in. Papasergia told him it’s his fish, and to keep on reeling. Eventually, Adam
Continued on page 76
Pat Papasergia displays his catch at Lake Crowley in the Eastern Sierras.
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Advanced Health Care of Bakersfield, Inc. Q: Is Lower Testosterone levels a common problem for men? Yes, this is a very common problem for men. Since I have started testing my patients, I was amazed by the number of
patients that have low testosterone and how replacement therapy can benefit these patients.
Q: What can men do to correct this? Contact my office to schedule an appointment. Lab tests will be ordered and appropriate treatment will be prescribed.
Q: What are the signs of lower testosterone levels? Fatigue, depression weakness and erectile dysfunction.
Q: What are Testosterone Pellets and what are the benefits? The testosterone pellets are a slow release testosterone that can be inserted under the skin by a simple procedure and will continue to release testosterone for an average of 3 months.
Q: At what age does this occur? It usually starts around age 35, but if you are having symptoms earlier, we can test you.
Q: Do they make a big difference? The patients that have received the pellets notice a huge difference in the way they feel and it can change the patient’s quality of life and they’ll feel amazing again.
Yakdan Al Qaisi, M.D. thinkstock.com
Address: 4040 San Dimas #A Bakersfield, CA 93301 Phone: 363-6800
74
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO COURTESY OF PAT PAPASERGIA
Patient moments
www.bmwofbakersfield.com
661-396-4040
BMW of Bakersfield 5400 Gasoline Alley Drive Bakersfield, Ca. 93313
was able to get the six-pound fish on the boat — a huge accomplishment for someone his age. “There is no other way to explain spending time with your son fishing,” Papasergia said. “I love sharing the special moments on the boat fishing with my family and friends.” Fishing and the outdoors provide Papasergia an escape from the stresses that come with being a captain with the Bakersfield Fire Department. When he retires, he plans to take his trailer and stay in Alaska for six months, fishing and hunting “whatever else walks on this planet Earth.” “This is my therapy in life,” Papasergia said. “Just me and my pole, and the wonderful outdoors.”
A climbing battle When Jeff Firkins is climbing, it’s nothing but solitude and adventure. “A lot of time is actually spent by yourself,”
76
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Jeff Firkins following on the first pitch of "Last Dihedral" on Dome Rock — a 400-foot climb.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF FIRKINS
Continued from page 74
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF FIRKINS
Firkins standing in the notch between “The Sorcerer” and “The Charlatan” just before climbing “Stars and Stripes Forever” at the Needles.
Firkins, 33, said. “When your buddy’s climbing, you get a lot of time to think and breathe freely. Then when it’s your turn to lead, you’re living for that moment.” It starts at the base with hundreds of feet of rock towering above. That’s when the butterflies in the stomach start fluttering, the anticipation rises and the unknown awaits. This is where the adventure begins. “It’s like going to battle,” Firkins said. Firkins and his climbing partner Todd Wise are always getting into the unknown, but neither one could have seen what was coming when the two decided to take on South Face at the Needles. They hiked 2-1/2 miles to the mountain and began climbing at 8 a.m. The 1,200-foot climb took all day and Wise dropped his water bottle on the second pitch, leaving the climbers with just a half-liter of water for the entire day. As the wind started to pick up and temperatures began to drop, the two found themselves huddling behind a rock on the way down to shield them from the elements. Firkins and Wise didn’t get back until 9 p.m., meeting up with other climbers at a gathering set up by the Southern Sierra Climbing Association. When the duo told others where they were all day, worldrenowned climber Peter Croft told them that’s a “full-value route.” “That just made our day,” Firkins said. “It validated how awesome our route was.” bakersfieldlife.com
77
ALL IN THE
FAMILY
Members of the Giumarra grape-growing family outside their Edison headquarters, from left, Randall Giumarra, Robert Stanley, Mimi Dorsey, Jeffrey Giumarra and John Giumarra III. 78
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
By Bakersfield Life Magazine
I
f there are two things Bakersfield is known for, it’s agriculture and oil. They’ve been longstanding industries in our area, many of them started by local families generations ago. Today, they still stand. Meet four of them here.
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
Local familyoperated agriculture and oil industry companies share what it’s like to work with kin
Cesar Chavez applauds as John Giumarra, Jr. holds a copy of the United Farm Worker union label during a UFW meeting in Delano in 1970.
Generations of Giumarra In 1922, Salvadore and Giuseppe Giumarra founded the Giumarra Bros. Fruit Company out of Los Angeles. Since then, the Giumarra Vineyards Corporation has grown exponentially and is now operated by the family’s third and fourth generations. Their farming division is in Kern and Tulare counties, and they have partnerships with other growers in other parts of the world, too. Currently, the third generation is responsible for running the business, while the fourth generation is involved in the field operation, marketing and finance, shared John Giumarra Jr. “I think there’s a great deal of trust in the people that you are working with, that they’ll do their jobs properly and that their heart and soul is really in the business,” said John Jr. “Working with family members creates an aura for everyone doing the best they can and doing what’s right for the company.” John Jr., part of the third generation, works with his sons, Randy Giumarra and John Giumarra III. “I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work for our family’s business and to carry on the hard work of the generations before me,” Randy said. “I hope that our generation can continue to improve the business so that our children can at
least have the option to take over given the desire to do so.” John III recognizes the importance of mutual respect between the generations and has tremendous admiration for the heritage of the company. Also important, he says, is regular communication. “You can’t run a competitive organization without fresh ideas and that means regular open dialogue with all of the family members engaging in the conversation,” said John III. “But we get along just fine considering we’re all Sicilian.” Giumarra Vineyards Corporation doesn’t contract out any of their work and they believe it has had an impact on the company’s culture. “Everybody feels like they are part of the Giumarra Vineyards family,” said Randy. “It’s not a revolving door with different crews and contractors. It’s the same families.” In many situations, the work crews consist of multiple families of their own, who work together and return year after year to work in the fields with the Giumarra family. “My relatives who operate the farming operation are all out there with their employees everyday,” said John Jr. “And I think there is a much closer relationship in our situation than most farming companies have with the people that work on their ranches.” — Emily Claffy
Continued on page 81 bakersfieldlife.com
79
80
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
Brian Kirschenmann now runs the 100-year-old family farming operation and hopes to pass it along to his children.
Kirschenmann Farms grows chipping potatoes for potato chip companies, including Lay’s.
PHOTO BY AMY TIERNEY
Now Showing Bakersfield’s fastest-growing network with more than 25 hours of live video programming every week!
Watch live and on-demand at
Continued from page 79
Potato patriarchs For more than 100 years, Kirschenmann Farms, Inc. has been farming potatoes in California. This family-owned business dates back to the Great Depression and World War II when potatoes were the cheapest staple to feed the country during difficult times. “I feel honored to be a fifth-generation California potato farmer still carrying on the family heritage,” said Brian Kirschenmann, owner of Kirschenmann Farms, Inc. Kirschenmann Farms specializes in growing chipping potatoes domestically and internationally for potato chip companies. “Most of the people who work for us have been with us for more then 30 years, so we feel like we have created a secondary family that has helped keep this heritage alive,” he said. All family operations have interesting dynamics that either create unbreakable bonds or divide the family, Kirschenmann said, but he said he is grateful to have great relationships with his immediate family. “Family dynamics create interesting passion. I feel honored to have my family close to me.” Kirschenmann Farms has not only helped Kirschenmann keep the family close but has also helped out the local community. The family business has given financial and food donations and are huge believers in keeping as much of the money generated by their business in the community. Kirschenmann hopes the next generation will have the same passion he has and will keep the heritage alive. “I see it in my father’s eyes looking at his kids, and I hope I have the same honor.” — Gabriel Ramirez
N e w s , We a t h e r a n d Tr a f f i c U p d a t e s Weekdays 7 to 10 am
C i n d y Po l l a r d d i s c u s s e s l o c a l business and economic development Mondays 10 to 11 am
C o r ey C o s t e l l o e reviews CSUB’s Athletic Programs Tuesdays 10 to 11 am
Lisa Krch explores We l l n e s s , H e a l t h , F itness and Living Wednesdays 10 to 11 am
Ke v i n B a r t l a n d R ya n H o l t discuss the Condors Wednesdays Noon to 1 pm
With Don Clar k and Tina Miller Thursdays 10 to 11 am
Zach Ewing previews High School Spor ts Thursdays 2 to 3 pm
Continued on page 83 bakersfieldlife.com
81
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
From left: Brothers Michael, Fred and Bruce Holmes in front of an Ajax steam engine.
IS IT SAFE OR IS IT LIBERTY SAFE?
REVERE U.L. SECURITY RATING
TM
FAIL-SAFE
COLONIAL
TRIPLE RELOCKERS
FRANKLIN BREAK-IN WARRANTY
LINCOLN
PRESIDENTIAL
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
NATIONAL
NEW BTU FIRE RATINGS!
PROTECT YOUR VALUABLES - GUNS, COINS, JEWELRY, BIRTH CERTIFICATES
T&T LIBERTY SAFES 7th STANDARD RD.
EX IT NO
Y
RR IS
HW
RD .
E AT ST SNOW ROAD
NORRIS RD. E.
T&T 7104 GOLDEN STATE HWY OLIVE DRIVE
SEN UD KN
Hours: MON-FRI 9am - 6pm SAT 9am - 4pm
EN LD GO
7104 Golden State Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93308 Showroom 393-3782 • www.tntlibertysafe.com
. DR
The Largest Gun, Home and Office Safe Display in the Valley • See Liberty’s Complete Line of Safes at TNTLIBERTYSAFE.COM 82
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Bruce Holmes with some vintage oil equipment.
CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO
Proudly Serving Kern County’s Homecare Needs for 23 Years.
Continued from page 81
We personally match our caregivers to each client and their needs.
Holmes oil family When people talk about the history of Kern County and Bakersfield, they can’t help but talk about oil. One family who has as much history with oil as the city they live in is Bruce A. Holmes’ family. Holmes is the owner of Holmes Oil Company, a local independent oil production company. Holmes’ history with oil dates back to when his great grandfather worked as a cable-tool driller near Oildale and drilled for oil in the Kern River, Lost Hills and the “Devils Den.” “In 1940, my parents and grandparents bought the 80 acres north of where they lived, and the Fred S. Holmes Oil Co. was started,” Holmes said. This local family business has had both economic and familyrelated ups and downs. “In the 1970s, the business was divided due to family problems, and in the 1980s, we started acquiring properties and started drilling for ourselves,” Holmes said. “When it comes to working with family, I guess we didn’t know any other way of life. It was all hard work and hard times. It was always a struggle.” Holmes said that for a time, he and his brothers Mike and Fred were all his father’s crew. “I guess one of the best things about working with family was that you can’t be fired exactly,” Holmes said. “When times were tough, I was just a child, and we were all up at all hours of the night moving equipment.” Through the ups and downs and stresses and strains the family might have dealt with, Holmes said that the differences all patched up now and the family meets regularly for coffee. “I’m not sure if there is anything special about our business, but we are the last of a dying breed,” Holmes said, stating that a majority of oil production is now coming from large corporations. This locally owned family business has also made its mark on the community. Holmes Oil Co. has helped provide jobs and has given scholarships for local students. Holmes is uncertain of the fate of the family business, since oil production at their wells becomes less and less every year. He does, however, hope that the next generation will continue working the business to the end. — Gabriel Ramirez
• Personal Care • Bathing/Med Reminder • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping/Laundry
• Companionship • Transportation • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care • Hospice Care
RN Care Management 2-24 hours a day • 7 days a week
HOME CARE & HOSPITAL ATTENDANT BEDSIDE CARE
Our dependable caregivers are experienced, drug-alcohol screened, background checked, bonded and insured. Call today for your FREE In-Home consultation!
(661) 631-2036 2029 21st Street • Bakersfield, CA 93301 Established by Jeanne Schamblin in 1990, serving Bakersfield for over 21 years.
Continued on page 84 bakersfieldlife.com
83
Continued from page 83
Dick Minetti, with the help of his parents and close friends, Frank Schamblin and Bob Hildebrand, began farming citrus in 1954. “I started farming when I was 6 years old,” said Dick. “It was me and my parents together. They helped teach me.” After relocating from Santa Ynez to Kern County, Dick’s parents used the wood from their old barn to build their first packinghouse for their five-acre citrus ranch, known as Minetti’s Anxious Acres. Decades later, the ranch has expanded to 30 acres of citrus that is enjoyed across the nation. True to its history, Minetti’s Anxious Acres is still operated by Dick Minetti, his daughter Sherri Minetti and a close-knit group of friends who support them. “It’s something that I cherish, and it’s something that I thank God for everyday, the fact that I have Sherri,” said Dick. “I learn a lot from her, and it’s a good feeling to work with family because there’s nothing like it.” “We work as a team and have a great foreman, Alfonso Torres, who has been with us for over 20 years,” shared Sherri. “He’s like family.” Dick is the owner and operator of the ranch while Sherri takes care of the book work and sales alhough that hasn’t always been the case. Sherri, like her father, began helping out around the ranch at a young age. “My sister and I, Lora Bishop, grew up helping my dad with ranch work,” said Sherri. “I started in it so young, I never looked at it as a job.” Dick and Sherri believe that working as a family and supporting each other really makes the business work. “I’ve learned a lot from my dad about farming and values. Working together gives me the opportunity to spend more time with him that I might not have otherwise had,” Sherri said. “Life gets crazy, and it’s hard to make that time you need to spend with loved ones. This experience has given me that.” The Minettis said they enjoy catching up with customers, who come from all over the nation to visit their ranch. “We’re so thankful for Kern County,” Sherri said. “And for all of our other customers in California and throughout the United States who have supported us over the last 60 years.” — Emily Claffy
Citrus farmer Richard “Dick” Minetti, owner of Minetti’s Anxious Acres, with his daughter, Sherri Minetti. 84
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO BY APRIL MASSIRIO
Close-knit with citrus
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINETTI FAMILY
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MINETTI FAMILY
Richard “Dick” Minetti as a child with his parents Henry and Margaret.
Richard “Dick” Minetti pulls a homemade trailer at Frank Schamblin’s ranch around 1948.
2300 Eye Street (Across From Rite Aide) 661.327.9999 • www.reddoor-interiors.com Monday - Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5 Closed Sunday
Play Where’s Bazomb? at Tony’s Pizza to win cash, prizes, and earn great deals!
bakersfieldlife.com
85
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
OUR TOWN
In addition to working with animals, FFA students are invovled in business projects, leadership activities and community service.
By Gabriel Ramirez
S
ince the 1920s, Future Farmers of America, or FFA Organization as its known now, has been helping high school students experience agriculture and pursue agricultural careers through hands-on learning. It’s no surprise that high schools here in Kern County — home to a massive agricultural industry — are excelling with their FFA programs, including Shafter and Highland high schools. “FFA is a national organization that has a vision and a mission in establishing a program that promotes premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education,” said Ric Lemucchi, Shafter High’s agriculture instructor.
Local students learn about local agriculture industry while gaining leadership, responsibility, career outlook
LIFE SKILLS
Lemucchi, who has been involved with FFA since 1984, says the goal of FFA is to teach young people to appreciate American agriculture, and encourage young people to pursue a successful career in global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource systems. Students learn about the agriculture industry while learning “life skills” through hands-on projects and a farm laboratory, said Highland High agriculture instructor Craig Davidson, who was involved with FFA for four years as a high school student and has been advising for eight years.
86
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Emma Lane of the Kern Valley FFA watches the pigmy goat junior showmanship judging at the 2013 Kern County Fair. Lane won a third place ribbon in the senior division with her goat, “Rider.”
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
A FUTURE WITH FFA
“Students have the opportunity to be actively involved in production agriculture, scientific research or entrepreneurism,” Davidson said. One of the major misconceptions about FFA, Davidson said, is that it just focuses on farm animals. Not so. Students
WE WELCOME NEW PATIENTS.
Bakersfield High FFA students set up their pumpkin booth at the Brimhall Road farmers market.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Oral & IV Sedation Available Our goal is to help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. Most insurances accepted, payment plans available.
Call now to make an appointment
661-369-7155 • 2320 17th St. Bakersfield www.sangerdds.com compete across the state and nation and are involved in business projects, leadership activities, community service and receive graduation credit for their work.
MORE THAN COWS AND PIGS Micah Adams, a senior at Shafter High School and the 2013-14 “chapter officer sentinel,” got involved with FFA because many of her family members have agriculture-related jobs. “This organization is very important because it makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their leadership abilities and personal growth,” Adams said. Highland High senior Jennifer Pierce said she has learned about leadership, responsibility, business management and animal husbandry in her four years in FFA. And Mason Zaninovich, a Shafter High senior and FFA south valley sectional sentinel, says FFA is far more than just about cows and pigs, even though he has raised four hogs and six turkeys for the Kern County Fair and one hog for the Cow Palace Jackpot Show in San Francisco. “There is no other class that I have ever taken that can give you an education like this,” Zaninovich said. “It’s a program designed to educate young students about agriculture and make them independent leaders. Attending a school in a rural area, I feel it’s important to learn about agriculture because we’re surrounded by it.” Zaninovich said he plans to attend Fresno State and pursue a degree in agriculture business, with a minor in viticulture. Through programs like the FFA, students learn about hard work, dedication, responsibility and time management, Davidson said, in addition to getting an inside look at one of our largest industries. “Agriculture is the key to any civilization,” Davidson said. “People need these skills, especially in an era of laziness and instant gratification.”
- Local
Ownership -
deal with local people, not corporate giants
- Experienced our staff has over 200 years of combined mortgage experience
- Competitive Competitive rates & fees
- Professional our loan officers are licensed with the CA BRE & NMLS Call one of our experienced Loan Officers today. Locally Owned and Operated
3977 Coffee Rd. Suite A, Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-615-1111 www.GoToSummitFinancial.com NMLS# 303625 BRE# 01522391
*Real Estate Broker, California Bureau of Real Estate* ***Subject to qualification, terms & conditions.
bakersfieldlife.com
87
BUSINESS PROFILE
Stephen Penner directs the Shafter Symphony Orchestra.
Questions answered by Stephen Penner, music director of Shafter Symphony Orchestra. What is the Shafter Symphony Orchestra? We present professional symphony orchestra concerts and community recitals in Shafter. For our concerts, we hire professional musicians to present some of the greatest music ever composed. We also aim to involve students in our programs through unique educational opportunities.
SHAFTER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Why Shafter? Shafter embraces a rich musical heritage. You can see it in its award-winning school and community music programs. Many community members participate in local choirs, the community band and other ensembles. I grew up in Shafter, and after moving back to Bakersfield (after college), I felt there might be an opportunity to celebrate and nurture such a culture. I also know people who, for one reason or another, can’t make it to Bakersfield. Why not bring the concert to them?
How did Shafter Symphony Orchestra start? I got the idea in late 2011 and discussed it with friends and musicians to see if there was interest and support. The idea was always to offer something that the community wanted and to which it would positively respond. Just like those kids selling candy bars to raise money for their band trips, I walked the streets of Shafter, putting up posters and talking with business owners. There was great interest, but few funds. After I 88
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAFTER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
garnered in-kind support from schools, arts organizations and the city of Shafter, set a date and guaranteed the event, the money came. But more importantly, people showed up and enjoyed the concert! We had local music students come meet the musicians after our dress rehearsal, and they all started taking private lessons soon after. In 2013, we performed as part of the Shafter Colours Festival, which we’ll be doing again in 2014, and we hope to raise enough support to have a concert in the fall of 2014. Is there anything different about your concerts? Only slightly. As difficult as it can be, we want to create a moving experience for everyone, so I try to write program notes that gives everyone what they need to understand what they hear. Sometimes a simple explanation or some guidance can help us experience what the composer wants us to feel. The slogan for our first concert was, “Flip-flops or a tux, just come enjoy the music!” Our past audiences have been comprised evenly of every age group and every level of dress. The musicians and I have spent thousands of hours studying and practicing, so for us, it’s not a particularly casual event, but our whole purpose is to play for and move people, no matter what they wear, or where they come from. When is the next performance, and who should come? Everyone! We love having people come from all over, and it’s really not that far from Bakersfield. Being that it’s a school night, we try to end early so we can all get home at a decent hour. The Fred L. Starrh Performing Art Center at Shafter High School has 925 seats, and we’d love to fill them all. The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23.
BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
PHOTO COURTESY OF MTS STIMULATION SERVICES
MTS STIMULATION SERVICES, INC.
MTS Stimulation Services, Inc. Vice President Monda Byrd, left, and President Tommy Reed.
How long has MTS Stimulation Services been in business? MTS Stimulation Services, Inc. has been in business for 30 years, serving all of California. MTS came from humble beginnings that began in 1983. Today, MTS employs more than 40 employees and is still growing strong. What types of services does MTS Stimulation Services offer? For the past 30 years, MTS has been servicing the oil field industry for production, disposal and injections wells, well maintenance and hydrogen sulfide removal. Treater trucks to assist in well maintenance is an upcoming service to be added for our customers in MTS Stimulation the first quarter of 2014. Our new synthetServices, Inc. ic hydrochloric acid has been a great addiAddress: 7131 Charity Ave. tion to our stimulation services for a comin Bakersfield plete safe and effective tool in the oilfield Phone: 589-5804 industry. Soon, we will have a green Website: mts-stim.com hydrofluoric acid as well. and mts-es.com The newest addition to MTS is our new division MTS Environmental Solutions, offering a full line of synthetic acids and caustics for agriculture, food, beverage and food processing industries. We will continue offering our traditional chemicals — the green is just an addition to our product line. Why does MTS Stimulation Services stand out among its competitors? MTS stands out because of our customer service and our safety training. We have 30 years of experience in the industry and well-qualified staff to assist with customer’s needs. Our 90
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
knowledge and experience in the industry is one of our biggest assets. We offer a closed vapor recovery system on our trucks, which is unique to MTS, that prevents gasses and vapors from escaping into the atmosphere during acidization. MTS is proud of being proactive for the future by offering alternative products that are safe and “green.” In 2013, we moved into our new facility and state-of-the-art chemical mixing plant that allows us to fulfill orders for our customers in a safe and timely manner. Contact us for more information at 589-5804. What do your customers say about your services? Our customers say they receive a professional staff that is courteous, respectful and well trained to do the jobs safe and right. We are known for being reliable, dependable and honest. What new and exciting things are happening at MTS Stimulation Services? MTS has introduced environmentally-friendly products this past year. In the oil industry, we offer a green replacement for hydrochloric acid and soon will have a replacement for hydrofluoric acid as well. We also have green alternatives for xylene and caustics. MTS Environmental Solutions has green synthetic hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, caustic, sanitizer and cleansers and peeling aids. All products carry a 0-0-0 Hazard Rating score and are 100 percent biodegradable. Who are the visionaries behind MTS Stimulation Services? MTS has many visionaries, but President Tommy Reed and Vice President Monda Byrd lead the organizations. We have amazing employees, and everyone is a star.
MTS SERVICES Oilfield and Environmental Services Since 1983
MTS Stimulation Services offers a variety of oilfield services for: • Oil Production • Disposal and Injection Wells • Well Maintenance Treatments • Hydrogen Sulfide Removal and more! We currently offer traditional and green chemicals for the oil field industries. Our product line of Green chemicals are acids, caustics, xylene and more. Hydrofluoric Acid is coming soon. For more information or to receive a green acid demonstration, please contact us.
MTS Stimulation Services www.mts-stim.com Ph: 661-589-5804 • Fx: 661-589-4511
MTS Environmental Solutions MTS Environmental Solutions is committed to improving the health and safety of our community by offering a full line of Safe, Green and Clean products. Our revolutionary new line of synthetic acids and caustics were created for sustainable agriculture and food industries, and replaces traditionally used chemicals.
MTS Environmental Solutions www.mts-es.com Ph: 661-589-5804 • Fx: 661-589-4511
BUSINESS PROFILE
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
The Colours Committee, back row, left to right: Scott Hulbert, Mike Kotrla, Larry Starrh, David Frantz, Stephen Penner and Robert Waters. Front row, left to right: Arly Smith, Nancy Goehring, Radon Fortenberry and Randy Toews.
COLOURS: A CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS Questions answered by Larry Starrh, director of the Colours committee. What is Colours: A Celebration of the Arts? Colours is a chance to bring good, beautiful, positive culture to our community — a chance to teach ourselves how to make culture, and how to consume culture. We want to promote and highlight art that has redeeming qualities. From film to stage to canvass, we want to partake and promote it all! Also, part of the goal for us is to affect culture, and have a part in deciding what is good and beautiful. It’s just a little bitty goal, but its one we believe we need to be a part off. How long has Shafter hosted this event? This is the fourth year of the Colours event in Shafter. The city of Shafter is a great place to be able to have an event like this because of its willingness to help where it can. The leadership and management of our town has done a terrific job making our community safe and fiscally sound. It makes sense that art and culture should be a part of the agenda in enhancing what is already a great city. But we hope that it enhances more than just Shafter, our desire is that it will enhance our county also. We are drawing artists from all over and hope that, by highlighting their talents at this event, the circle of art influence is greater, and that we propagate quality culture for a larger audience. 92
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
What’s the goal of Colours? Colours is officially an organization run by volunteers, and another one of our goals is to raise money, as well as awareness. The money raised is then given out in scholarships and grants to people and groups who are promoting and making art. We have given money for band programs, art classes for children, and art supplies for drama and art classes, to name a few. It’s been a fun four years, and we feel like we are succeeding, but also discovering that culture takes people to be involved. Whether making it or consuming it, people must be engaged. We will be engaging more folks this year — I have no doubt! What is your role? My role this year includes being a director on the Colours committee and directing the musical, “Always Patsy Cline.” What can visitors expect to see and experience this year? This year we have another exciting list of events. The San Joaquin Chorale will be attending, which is a 60 voice choir from the Fresno area. Other events include theater, silent movies, art and wine tasting, a symphony performance and a chili cook-off with music. And The Colours Run is guaranteed to put color in your life… and hair! What is your favorite part of the event? This year, I am really excited about a new venue that we are building in Shafter. We are putting in a theater to house plays, concerts, films and banquets. We are very proud that Shafter will have a center for culture that will help provide a space to see art grow!
BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ENIGMA Who is ENIGMA? ENIGMA is a full-service, home-grown, marketing and advertising agency in Bakersfield. Adam Vinson and Jason Gutierrez have 19 years of combined experience in graphic design, web development, social media strategy, corporate and nonprofit marketing, editorial and advertising. Both being from Bakersfield has helped them in all facets of their careers, to not only understand the market, but to also understand the people of the community. Creating ENIMGA was a natural fit for the two. Not only are the two good friends, but they also have skills and experience that complement each other. Who is Jason Gutierrez? Jason spent six years writing and editing stories for newspaper and magazines. Additionally, he launched a career as a freelance writer, working on business and travel features, as well as celebrity interviews for several regional and national publications. He also has corporate communications experience, savvy with social media branding and strategy development and nonprofit marketing (social media, advertising, printing and web development). He’s also passionate about CrossFit and is Level 1 CrossFit coach. Who is Adam Vinson? Adam started in the digital world as an animator, earning his degree in (CGI) computer generated imagery. Deciding that the big city life was not for him, he switched fields and has spent the past 12 years working in print and web design. He then spent the last five years at a Bakersfield-based marketing and design agency, where he worked as senior artist/art director. His expertise is 94
Bakersfield Life Magazine
Jason Gutierrez
ENIGMA, LLC Founded in 2012 Owners: Jason Gutierrez and Adam Vinson Phone: 496-9245 Web: thinkenigma.com Email: jason@thinkenigma.com or adam@thinkenigma.com
in, but not limited too, web and graphic design, (UI) user interface development, (UX) user experience consulting, SEO and traditional marketing. What philosophy does ENIGMA run by? There are a lot of options, locally, for business to choose from when hiring a marketing agency. ENIGMA is a full service marketing and advertising agency. From strategy to production, design and personal investment in clients and their projects, everything a client
February 2014
Adam Vinson
needs or wants is delivered. They have found that access and transparency is key in forming client relationships. Working around the clock for client satisfaction is a philosophy both share and continue to deliver. Whether hired for a large consulting job, creating new campaigns or managing daily social media marketing, Jason and Adam function as a team. Meetings, calls, emails and texts are always attended to and answered promptly, as though they were part of your in-office staff. Time, attention and customer service is guaranteed when you choose ENIGMA. What is social media? Social media is more than a “post” a day. There’s strategy behind social media management, and a lot of creativity. As social media continues to grow, so should messaging. Social media is about building a brand, executing a purpose and growing your audience base. In a nutshell, social media is bringing attention to an organization or company. It’s creating space in a crowded room.
RESULTS DELIVERS www.ThinkEnigma.com
A Full-Service Marketing and Advertising Agency.
PA S T I M E S
Members of the Cadillac Kings showing off their Cadillacs at the Sonic Drive-In on Rosedale Highway during their monthly social.
Story and photos by Brian N. Willhite
F
or members of the Cadillac Kings, the club life is more than whitewall tires, chrome grilles and tricked-out rides. These kings are about family gatherings, supporting the community, and the feeling they get when cruising a classic Cadillac down the boulevard. Of course, tricked-out rides are encouraged. “People just love Cadillacs,” said Sean Moran, club sergeant at arms. “They’re one of those transcendent automobiles everyone likes.”
KINGS OF THE CADILLAC SCENE
WRITING ITS CHAPTER
Local auto club thrives on cruising, camaraderie and community giving
The car club is a tribute to the unique designs and charm that embodied Cadillac models of the post-war era. As such, the club only accepts makes from 1975 or older, regardless of condition. “They go from rusty and not very nice, to show condition, but that’s the beauty of the club and the Cadillac — it doesn’t have to be a show quality car,” Moran said. Established in early 2013, the newest chapter of the nationwide Cadillac Kings Car Club is a division of the home chapter in Los Angeles, which began in 2005, according to the club’s website.
96
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
The Cadillac Kings members-only plaque. However, the Bakersfield crew has already made an impact with other chapters as they quickly became the largest faction, with 30 members in less than a year — and it’s still growing. “We really impressed the L.A. chapter — the mother chapter. They came down here and said, ‘Wow, you guys are doing it right. You’re getting it together,’” Moran said. Club president Aaron Charles said there were a few attempts to establish a chapter that were unsuccessful, but Charles felt the time was right to try again. When the chapter started, there were only a few members, including Moran and Charles, but the word got out and it was just a matter of time before like-minded devotees started rolling in to the club.
The Bakersfield chapter of the Cadillac Kings has grown to 30 members in less than a year.
Cadillac Kings Vice President Mike Garcia cruising his '65 Cadillac.
“I was totally surprised at how many Cadillacs were in this town,” Moran said. “I would drive mine around, and once in a while I would see one. Then all of a sudden, when we started getting this thing together, they start coming out.”
CRUISING AND COMMUNITY As Moran points out, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, as long as you’re involved for the right reasons. Moran and the others emphasize the club is all about family fun, regardless of how the cover of the book appears.
“Most of the guys are tattooed all the way up to the neck, but these are guys who have little babies and good jobs,” Moran said. “There are no thugs or deadbeats in our club.” Member Chris Chamberlin said the family atmosphere is something he cherishes about the group, and there is nothing better than rolling down the street with his brothers. “The thing I like most about being in the club is cruising together. Having other people to drive around with — the brotherhood,” Chamberlin said.
Continued on page 98 bakersfieldlife.com
97
Continued from page 97 “These guys here are all my friends, and it’s kind of nice that we have the same interests, and all the same style of car.” Getting looks from people on the street also comes with the territory of driving a classic automobile, and a little attention is a good thing, club member say. “What I get out of it is people acknowledging your car,” Garcia said. “I mean, you get the young kids, too, but a lot of the older folks, they really trip out on seeing these old cars back and fixed up.” Aside from the cruising and afternoon gettogethers, the kings are deeply committed to making an impact in their community, in the car scene and through charitable giving. The club’s first official community charity event was participating in the Bakersfield Toy Run in December, and members are hoping to adopt a local charity to support. “We’re here not just for the cars, but to help out the community, too,” Charles said. For more information on the Cadillac Kings, go to cadillackingsbakersfield.com.
Cadillac Kings Sergeant at Arms Sean Moran (left) and his son, Riley Moran, next to their '64 Cadillac Coupe DeVille.
Since 1947
LIC# 378549
SUPERIOR ROOFING Give Superior Roofing A Call For All Your Roofing Needs Accurate Leak Detection • Quick Turnaround Complete Re-Roof Repairs • Minor Roof Repairs Tubular Skylights • Blown Attic Insulation Solar Powered Attic Vents • Energy Efficient Roofs
CUSTOM CANVAS AWNINGS COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL Stationary Motorized Retractables Roller Curtains Boat Covers Canopies Graphics Create the image you desire by selecting from an array of awning designs, shapes & fabrics
SUPERIOR
ROOFING
Bonded, & insured for your protection
DON’T GET CAUGHT IN THE RAIN licensed #867069
182 Quantico Avenue, #3
661-322-8300 98
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
631 California Ave Bakersfield, CA 93304
661-322-7360
www.SpecialtyTrimAwning.com
Is an Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty) right for you? JOSEPH H CHANG, MD
Before
M.D., Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Residency, Ophthalmology / Ophthalmic and Oculoplastic Surgery, Jules Stein Eye Institute / UCLA
Female, age 55
Before
%RDUG &HUWL¿HG 2SKWKDOPRORJLVW with subspecialty emphasis in Oculoplastic Surgery Performed Thousands of successful eyelid surgeries over the past 15 years.
After Male, age 54
After Actual patients with procedures performed by Dr. Chang.
ASK DR. CHANG How many procedures have you performed? Several thousand eyelid surgeries over the past 15 years. Prior to limiting my practice to specializing in oculoplastics, I also performed several thousand intraocular surgeries. Is there anything that you recommend I do before the procedure to ensure better results or a quicker recovery? The main goal is to optimize your blood clotting factors. We will provide you with a detailed list of “do’s and don’ts” for both before and after surgery. The No. 1 thing is to avoid taking blood thinning medications, such as aspirin. What are the risks that are associated with this procedure? What about alternative treatments? While no surgery is entirely free from risk, this is an extremely safe surgery. Complications are very rare. The main viable alternative to an eyelid lift is an eyebrow lift, which is most effectively performed using Botox instead of surgery.
What is the recovery like? When will I begin to see results? There is a variable amount of swelling and bruising, mostly resolving within a week or two. There is rarely any pain at all. There are stitches in place, which are removed by our expert staff two weeks after surgery. When can I begin wearing makeup again and using skin-care products? Makeup and skin care products are not prohibited at any time after surgery, although I encourage patients to avoid excessive makeup during the immediate post-op period, while the body heals. How can I maintain my results? Botox and fillers are extremely complementary with eyelid lift surgery.
theeyeliddoc.com
Empire Eye & Laser Center Empire H. Eye & Laser Center Daniel Chang, M.D. 4101 Empire Drive, Ste 120 Bakersfield, CA 93309 PH: 661 325 3937
4101 Empire Drive, Ste 120 Bakersfield, CA 93309 Montecito Aesthetic Institute 1150 H Coast Village Rd PH: 661-325-EYES (3937) Montecito, CA 93108
Joseph H. Chang, M.D.
empireeyeandlaser.com • theeyeliddoc.com PH: 805 565 5700
HOME AND GARDEN
By Marissa Lay
Photos by April Massirio
W
hether you’re searching for your own winter wonderland or simply wanting to create a more glistening atmosphere inside of your home, it’s time to make room for winter’s sparkle. “Winter is a bold season,” said Kathleen Davis, interior designer and floor merchandiser for Red Door Interiors. “Color, style, designs and accessories are always changing, but the essence of winter will always be the same. The warm homey ambiance, the fireplace, the holiday feeling, and entertaining and accommodating guests, always leaves a person in need of something this time of year.”
YOUR WINTER WONDERLAND Bring in the ‘bold season’ at home with these cozy interior design tips
Candles add warmth to a room. 100
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Designer Kathleen Davis of Red Door Interiors.
Jack Frost’s pastel blues, silvers and whites. The magic of winter, however, doesn’t lie in one color scheme. “Any color can be brought into a winter setting with a little help,” said Davis. The base color of your home should become the mold for your choice winter colors. If pasQuick Tips: How to tel is the base color, then creams create a winter and white accents can encomatmosphere at home pass winter, Davis said. A deeper • Light candles pallet home-color scheme allows • Use cozy throws and pillows for greens, reds, browns and • Color scheme according to earthy tones to become nice your home’s base color touches. • Go for natural appeal: branch-
Cozy throws and pillows bring a winter feeling into your home.
es, berries, furs • Place a wreath on the door • Light a fire (in the fireplace, of course)
ACCESSORIES
Beginning to open up your home to the seasonal change can be as simple as laying around some wintery throws. But here are more tips from Davis on how to make the transformation.
COLORS When you close your eyes and think of winter, perhaps you see Christmas reds and greens, or maybe you imagine
The accessories added to your space don’t necessarily Source: Kathleen Davis, interior have to follow the main color designer and floor merchandiser scheme and can simply be for Red Door Interiors accents to make the ambient winter feeling more prominent. Throws, lots of pillows, trays, candles, woodsy natural arrangements, heavier accents, and even a fall wreath on your
Continued on page 103
Serving all of Kern County!
REAL ESTATE LOANS Pay Bills • Buy Property Equity 1 Loans 34 Years Of Happy Repeat Borrowers 5405 Stockdale Hwy. Suite 108 • Bakersfield, CA 93309 Hablo English & Español
661-398-9382 • www.Equity1Loans.com
“CA Bureau of Real Estate” Broker Lic#00707520
bakersfieldlife.com
101
Winter color pallets need not be dark and heavy.
If you are looking to make a change in your lifestyle, I am qualified to assist you. Seniors Real Estate Specialist速 Call for a free consultation...
Darlene Tobias, Realtor 661.301.1722 CalBRE#01345186
102
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Southwest Eye Care & Laser MEDICAL ASSOCIATES
Gregory A. Stainer, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Continued from page 101 door, can all enhance your home during the season. “I feel winter has a certain natural-base that is all about the season. A more ‘outdoor-comes-indoors’ design is very popular,” Davis said. Items such as branches, berries, leaves and fur all have a natural appeal.
TRENDS A popular winter trend is cozy accents. Warm throws and candles are great when trying to accomplish this. “Winter is all about keeping warm, nesting and overcoming the holiday rush,” Davis said. “People want to relax and enjoy their home. Their surroundings are important during these moments.” Just because winter passes need not mean your home shouldn’t continue with the warm seasonal feeling. If the colors and earthy feelings don’t feel out of place in the surroundings, your home can feel cozy and like winter year-round. Adding seasonal design aspects to your home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Lots of the accessories are inexpensive and don’t require a lot of handy work. Simply visit your favorite design or accessory store. During this season, businesses are decorated accordingly, and you can get ideas there, or speak to a designer for help.
Reveal your
Natural Beauty
with a Microdermabrasion Rejuvenating Facial
$
70
ONE AT THIS PRICE Stock#744 VIN#698196 *$99.00 per month, plus tax and license for 42 months. MSRP $16,700. Cap Cost $12,500.00. $2,500 Factory Rebate. $99 due at lease signing, $1,000 Returning Lease cash: for Fiat customers who have previously leased a Fiat through Chrysler Capital.. $500 Military Rebate: This special offer is for those who’ve risked their lives defending us. If you’re Active, Active R eserved, Retired Military or Retire Military Reserve you’re eligible for up to $500 in bonus cash under our Military Incentive program. 10,000 annual miles at $0.20 over. Must finance through Chrysler Capital. On approval of credit. Buyer is responsible for tax, license & title. Not all applicants will qualify. See dealer for details. Offer ends 2/28/14.
Fiat of Bakersfield 2900 Cattle Drive • In The Bakersfield Automall • (661) 843-7888
fiatusaofbaker sfield.com
Like us
bakersfieldlife.com
103
PHOTO COURTESY OF KERN COUNTY MUSEUM
HISTORY
The Rankin Ranch was one of the stops for stagecoaches traversing the mountains of Kern County.
By Jeff Nickell
I
n 1863, Walker Rankin settled in the Walker Basin — coming from Pennsylvania through Panama to San Francisco — and began a cattle ranch that is still going strong today. In fact, the fourth, fifth and sixth generations of Rankins, through 2013, celebrated 150 years of family operation.
As with many who came to California, Walker Rankin headed west in search of gold and was “fairly successful” north of San Francisco. Before settling in Walker Basin, he and his brother Aquilla opened dairy and cattle operations in several locations of California. It was through good business skills and hard work that Walker was able to amass thousands of acres. Abiah Lightner moved his family by wagon train to California and Keyesville, where he successfully mined for gold. In 1858, the Lightner family moved to the Walker Basin and farmed and raised cattle. And on Sept. 14, 1868, Walker Rankin married Abiah’s daughter, Lavinia, and the couple had seven children — six boys and one girl, who tragically died at the age of 9. Lee Rankin, the third son of this union, was a member
RANKIN RANCH REGIME Generations of Rankin family celebrate 150 years of ranch living
Continued on page 106 104
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Third generation brothers Leroy and Bill Rankin dressed up in their Sunday best.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KERN COUNTY MUSEUM
FAMILY TREE
bakersfieldlife.com
105
PHOTO COURTESY OF KERN COUNTY MUSEUM
The Rankin Ranch House in 1878.
Continued from page 104 of the first student body at Kern Union High School in 1893. Lee met Julia Wakeman on a cattle buying trip to Southern California, and the couple married on May 17, 1911. This is the direct lineage to the current family members who stay true to the land. Lee and Julia’s son, Leroy, married Helen Cross on Jan. 4, 1936. Leroy and his brother Bill ran the ranch together until Bill’s sudden death in 1940. Leroy and Helen named their first
son (and third child, joining sisters Julia and Patricia) William John Rankin after his deceased uncle. In 1954, Leroy passed away at the age of 42. Helen Rankin was left with three children and a ranch to run. Several people urged her to sell the ranch as she had not been fully involved in running it. But Helen kept the ranch and learned how to be a successful cattlewoman, rancher and businesswoman.
LESSONS IN RANCHING This was evident in 1965 when she diversified and opened the Rankin Guest Ranch. The guest ranch was not only a way to make money but also a way to “offer city folk to learn about ranching,” and enjoy the natural beauty of the land. The guest ranch was one of the first of its kind in California. The ranch, at 31,000 acres, has been passed on to Bill Rankin and his wife Glenda, along with their children Jason, Rebecca, Sarah and Amanda. Of course, their spouses and children are right in the mix, making sure the ranching, farming and guest ranch remain a fixture of true Americana. The operations of the ranch are carried out with a hardwork ethic and love for Walker Basin and Kern County as a whole. “It is a privilege for the fourth, fifth and sixth generations to continue our longtime cattle ranching and stewardship of the land,” the family said in a statement.
Joseph Amaya, Realtor
CoolSculpting
Jerry Flynn, Realtor
Dewey Hinds, Realtor
Abdul Jobah, Realtor
661.865.9388
661.333.8183
661.303.2009
661.703.3916
amaya.joseph@yahoo.com CalBRE#00982370
jflynnrealtor@sbcglobal.net CalBRE#01191965
dhinds@bak.rr.com CalBRE#00640701
erbiz2005@gmail.com CalBRE#01463742
See a 20-25% reduction of fat in the treated area after just one 1 hour visit. CoolSculpting® is the revolutionary body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body.
Mention This Ad and Recieve 20% OFF
661-617-6101 1500 Haggin Oaks, Suite 100 Bakersfield, CA Dr. Gregory Klis, M.D. • Dr. David Lewis, M.D. April Cooper, R.N. • Beckie Duke, R.N. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and CareCredit!
www.skinsationmedispa.com 106
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Debbie Banducci, Realtor 661.617.4434 debbiebanducci.com CalBRE#01083331
Salah Jobah, Realtor
Ann Choung, Realtor
661-201-3163
661-312-4270
salah661@gmail.com CalBRE#01920825
annchoung@hotmail.com CalBRE#00916260
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Guests at the Rankin Ranch in Walker Basin take a morning horse ride.
You will like the clean, neat, inexpensive way we get rid of these and other pests!
Winter Special $
68
Initial start up charge, then $68 every other month with one year pest control service.
Price good for up to 2000 sq. ft. home. Fleas and Ticks extra. Offer expires 03/31/2014.
Web Control Included Prices quoted over phone!
Come See Why Pete Tittl Raves About Our Specials! www.kcsteakhouse.net
2515 F Street • (661) 322-9910 Family Owned & Operated Monday: 11:00am - 10:30pm Friday: 11:00am - 12:00am Tuesday - Thursday: 11:00am - 11:00pm Saturday: 5:00pm - 12:00am Happy Hour: Weekdays 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Locally Owned & Operated Licensed & Bonded
SSAN A N JOAQUIN J O A Q U I N PPEST E S T CCONTROL ONTROL 832-3182 • 1-800-398-8518 P. O. BOX 41705, BAKERSFIELD bakersfieldlife.com
107
IN MY CLOSET
Ryan Dawson and his impressive shoe collection.
108
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
RYAN DAWSON
Banana Republic sport coat
can Rag Cie in Los Angeles. The greatest thing about shopping in LA is that most of my favorite stores are within walking distance on La Brea Avenue. I By Hillary Haenes Photos by April Massirio also have a subscription through the brand Five o Ryan Dawson, an individual’s appearance is much Four, which sends me more than just freedom of expression. clothes each month. It “Fashion gives you an opportunity to speak your helps me stay current mind, to give people an idea of who you are and how with the seasons you project yourself. People say, ‘Never judge a book and trends. For by its cover.’ However, in today’s society, first impressions are $60 a month, it key,” said the 36-year-old business banking manager for really is the Rabobank, N.A. greatest fashion decision I have Each morning, Dawson spends about 30 minutes getting ever made. ready for work. He centers each day’s attire around his shoes, My biggest fashion faux then builds his outfit from there. Another essential part of his morning routine includes shaving with a double-edged safety pas: I have made many, whether it was a pair of men’s capris, an razor. all-white ensemble I wore once or the many “My day is typically pretty hectic, but I love the art of a pairs of shoes that are just good shave. It is the one thing I do each morning that allows to bright for me to wear me to slow down and enjoy the process,” he said. anymore. You To keep up-to-date on new fashion trends, Dawson need to make subscribes to GQ and Esquire magazines and reads those mistakes online blogs. He also browses sneakernews.com, so you find out hypebeast.com and mrporter.com. what your style is, Several years ago, Dawson seriously got into and for someone like shoes, specifically Nike and Jordan brand sneakers. me who is trying to comHe has more than 200 pairs of shoes, including Nike bine different looks, you Air Max BB 360 Rajon Rondo colorways, Air Jordan 11 are going to make some bad Space Jams, Air Jordan 3 in cool grey and Nike Flyknit choices. multicolor trainers. Omega Staples that every “I have always liked shoes. There is something Speedmaster man should have in his about wearing a ‘fresh’ pair of shoes that very few watch closet: Nothing beats a nice people have that gives you a sense of confidence. pair of denim jeans — it is the one Overall, I think that it encompasses my sense of fashion — to item that makes sense when spending be comfortable and to be different,” Dawson said. a little more cash. Of course, a nice pair Five prized possessions in my closet: Clarks desert of Jack Purcell’s wouldn’t be a bad idea either. boots, Omega Speedmaster watch, Banana Republic grey Favorite products: I typically wear cologne every day, wool sport coat, Undefeated navy blue khakis, and his latest Undefeated and I try to change it up from time to time. Right now, I really navy blue find — Mission belts. like Notting Hill by English Laundry. I discovered it through My personal style: Comfortable. I really have two difkhakis my subscription with Birchbox, which sends me a monthly ferent styles — for work and outside the office. But the conpackage that provides product samples so I am constantly stant is that I like to feel comfortable. I used to think that trying and discovering new things. loose-fitting and baggy clothes were the most comfortable. Fashion advice: Make sure your basics match, meaning That’s no longer the case. if you wear brown shoes, wear a brown belt. And, the My fashion icons: I have a couple of friends who I only time you should ever wear white athstarted buying shoes with about eight years ago. We letic socks is if you are doing share ideas on clothes, shoes and style in general — something athletic. Andrew Shearon and Trae Nealy. We keep each other honest, yet we all share the same philosDo you know someone who ophy that it is important to always put your is fashionable, or has an amazbest foot forward and walk your own path. ing closet? Email us at bakersfieldWhere I like to shop: I routinely shop life@bakersfield.com with the message at Banana Republic; however, I like to shop subject line: In My Closet. at Undefeated, Supreme, J. Crew and Ameri-
A shoe-collecting bank manager who enjoys style, comfort
T
Mission belts bakersfieldlife.com
109
INSIDE STORY
TAFT COLLEGE STEM PROGRAM By Mark Nessia
T
he STEM program at Taft College focuses on building interest and awareness into the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM. The STEM program Taft College is a partnership involving the West Kern Community College District and school districts, educators, and businesses that are dedicated toward improving STEM subject interest and fluency in the elementary, junior high, high school and college levels. This desire to promote STEM is part of a national initiative that seeks to increase the number of qualified STEM professionals. By doing so, educators, school districts and businesses are working together to help prepare students for four-year degree and certificate programs and increase the number of STEM-educated teachers, among other things. For more information, visit the folowing website: http://stem.taftcollege.edu/.
The Taft dental hygiene program was recently digitized, allowing for higher-quality X-rays with 60 to 70 percent less radiation. Digital X-rays also allow instant reviews and allow students to manipulate and highlight areas of interest.
The Taft STEM lab was designed as a wet lab with power outlets placed on the ceiling as the floors tend to get wet often.
The instrumentation panels used by the Taft Energy Technology program.
The greenhouse contains plants for use in botany and intro biology classes.
110
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
A Plexiglass grow box allows students to observe root structures in the soil.
ORECK ORBITER
®
Never Scrub Your Floors On Your Hands & Knees Again!!! NOW The Taft dental hygiene lab.
The Oreck Orbiter® will scrub, strip, wax, polish, even mop all your hard surface floors.
$100 OFF
Only
299
$
Reg. $399
And discover how easy Dry Carpet Cleaning is, you will be amazed at the results!! Stop in today for a demonstration. Accessories sold separately Try an Oreck risk-free for 30 days. If you don’t love it, you don’t keep it.® No matter what.
A multi-tank aquarium housing zebra fish in the STEM Prep Area. The tanks are self-cleaning with biological filters that recycle water.
WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS
®
835-0333
Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10-6
8200 Stockdale Hwy., Suite D-5 Town & Country Village (Between Trader Joe’s and Albertsons)
bakersfieldlife.com
111
STREETS OF BAKERSFIELD
NORTH CHESTER AVENUE IN OILDALE
Grade Loop Loop China Grade
Douglas St. St.
Story and photos by Mark Nessia
O
ildale has produced local legends, such as musicians Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, and racecar driver Kevin Harvick. It’s also home to some of the most historic and fascinating spots in Bakersfield. For example, take North Chester Avenue — between Norris Road and China Grade Loop — to get a glimpse of Oildale life.
Highland Dr Dr..
N. Che ster A ve.
5 6
F rancis S t. Francis St.
E. Hi ghla nd D r.
1 E. Arvin S St. t.
3
7 Carrre Ca rerre eS Stt.
St. Arvin S t.
Ray St. R ay St.
Vista Dr.. Linda V ista Dr
1
Apple Tree Health Foods (1910 N. Chester Ave.) has been the place to go for all your health food needs in Oildale for 35 years. The extensive selection of vitamins and herbs include items not found in other stores, such as the multipurpose Miracle Soap mineral formula.
Jus tine St. St. Justine
N . Ch e ster A ve.
4 2
E. Norris R d. Rd. Norris R d. Rd. 112
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
6
Bootleg Ink (2020 N. Chester Ave.) will help you turn your body into a work of art. Tom Welch, shop owner with 29 years of tattoo experience, is backed by four quality artists, a piercer and a guarantee on all work. Payment plans are available, as well as monthly specials listed on Bootleg Ink’s Facebook page.
7 2
Covenant Coffee (1700 N. Chester Ave.), also known as the “HQ of Hope,” provides a farm-to-cup coffee experience and roasting with a purpose. Its commitment to providing freshroasted coffee is matched only by its commitment to the community. Every two pounds of coffee sold employs a foster youth for an hour, providing him or her with a job, and an uplifting environment.
3
North Chester Pharmacy (1822
N. Chester Ave.) has been servicing Oildale and Bakersfield for 30 years and remodeled three years ago. It’s a full-service retail pharmacy that focuses on service and quality of care. An automated medication delivery systems not only ensure accurate prescription fillings and short wait times (averaging 10 minutes), it also allows the staff to interact with customers and focus on patient care.
Three Dogs Custom Cycle (1811 N. Chester
Ave.) is locally owned and operated, building, repairing and maintaining motorcycles for 14 years. Three Dogs does work on classic Harley’s from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, and offers consignments with bikes on display on the showroom floor.
4
Happy Hydro
8
(1708 N. Chester Ave.) and its extensive selection of hydroponic equipment, fertilizers and pesticides will ensure you have everything you need for indoor and outdoor growing. Have questions about plant care? Ask the “Hydro Nerds,” whose radio show airs at 3 p.m. Thursdays on DFZ Radio (dfzradio.com).
LongBranch Saloon (907 N. Chester Ave.) is home to one of Kern County’s longest bars (75 feet) and one of the longest “happy hours” (6 a.m. to 7 p.m.). A full menu with everything from burgers, tacos and barbecue paired with signature drinks — like the warm apple pie and rainbow shots — is enough to warrant a trip. Throw in karaoke nights every Wednesday and Friday and live bands every Saturday, and LongBranch becomes the place to be for good food, good drinks and good times.
Northside to Oildale
5
Ken’s Optical (2022 N. Chester Ave.) combines old-fashioned customer service with cutting edge optic technology. Work done inhouse results in faster turnaround times with a personal touch. From prescription sunglasses, rimless glasses, to transition lenses, this family-ownedand-operated establishment will not only help you see, but look stylish as well.
In 1875, the settlement was called Northside. When oil was discovered, it was known as Oil City. Today, it’s known as Oildale. Here are a few historical facts of this area: • In 1912, a Southern Pacific Railroad depot and freight house was moved five miles west on Norris Road, to near what is now North Chester Avenue and was named Waits Station. • In 1910, North Chester was named Hughes Avenue, named after John M. Hughes, the self-appointed “mayor” of the area. • In 1925, the Oildale Southern Pacific freight depot changed its name from Waits Station to Seguro Station. The structure of Seguro Station still stands as a private residence on Norris Road, one quarter of a mile east of North Chester Avenue. • Oildale’s mailing address was changed to “Bakersfield” after the Oildale Post office closed on Oct. 1, 1954. Source: George Gilbert Lynch
bakersfieldlife.com
113
PERSONALITY
Les Clark is the executive vice president of the Independent Oil Producers’ Agency. 114
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PHOTO BY MICHAEL LOPEZ
ADVOCATE FOR KERN CRUDE
Veteran oilman Les Clark mixes business with humor By Lisa Kimble
O
il industry veteran Les Clark has traveled the world advocating for Kern crude, rubbed elbows with the scions of commerce for more than half a century and gone toe-totoe with political leaders and environmentalists without blinking an eye. But on a recent morning, it was a small holiday card tucked inside an envelope, whose address was barely legible, that brought out the softer side of the likeable oilman who is legendary in local circles for his down-home wit. The industry giant chokes up when he talks about his friendship with Jeffrey Stephens, a young man with special needs who lives in Sacramento. Clark met Stephens in a restaurant at the state capitol about 12 years ago and has been mentoring him ever since. “He calls me at least once a day,” Clark says, pausing as tears well up. He talks fondly, too, of another special needs friend who lives in Bakersfield — Scooter. “I think [I get emotional] because we are so lucky.” It is a stark contrast with the burly public image of the powerful and influential executive vice president of the Independent Oil Producers’ Agency, who, at 71, has had a front row seat to decades of sweeping change within the trade.
BROKER/OWNER • CalBRE#00624026
HUD’s • Short Sales • REO’s • Re-Sale
Open 7-days a week! We can show you any property listed for sale. Call us or stop by today.
661.847.1050 3861 Stockdale Hwy. • Bakersfield, CA 93309 Se Habla Español 661.201.9049 www.bettybyrom.com • peoplerealtyinc@gmail.com Real Estate Broker, California Bureau of Real Estate
Serving Bakersfield for Over 35 Years!
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS Born in Fresno, Les Clark and his family eventually moved to North Belridge in 1951, near the kitty litter plant. A graduate of Taft High, Clark went on to Taft College where he played football and then played baseball at Fresno State. “That was a big deal at the time to be away from home,” he recalls. “My folks were poor as church mice. They couldn’t afford to keep me up in Fresno, so I lived with my grandmother there, who, at one point, offered to mortgage her home for me to finish, but I refused.” Clark dropped out of the main campus but eventually finished through the local extension program after nine years. “I knew I had to continue,” he recalls. “The key was to get my degree. It didn’t mean you were smart; it meant you were trainable!” Years later, Cal State Bakersfield, which had assumed the extension program, notified Clark that he qualified for a diploma. He need only send in $50, which was a lot of money at the time. “I didn’t, but in hindsight I wish I had done so.”
TWO JOBS, ONE WORLD OF EXPERIENCE Clark was enrolled in drafting classes at Taft College when Belridge Oil Company, in need of draftsmen, hired him on the school’s recommendation. “The amount of knowledge I gained by doing engineering, surveying and just about everything there was invaluable,” he says. By the late 1970s, oil executives were working overtime trying to stay up with the rising tide of environmental issues and regulatory concerns, and consultants were being hired right and left to help run permits through. Married to his high school sweetheart in June 1965, an “upper
on a #1untilCombo 2/28/2014
Continued on page 116 bakersfieldlife.com
115
Continued from page 115 cruster” from Fellows, Clark had 15 years with Belridge when it was purchased by Shell Oil in 1979. He stayed on for another year, knowing that the future of his job was ultimately headed to Houston. “Their mistake [Bellridge/Shell] was flying me back to Houston for a couple of summers,” he remembers with a laugh. By 1981, the Independent Oil Producers’ Agency was looking to establish an office and a presence in the county. From Sacramento to the nation’s capitol, Clark had been running with the bigwigs of the major oil companies. The agency didn’t have to look far for its man. “If you know me, and you want to hear it, you’re going to hear it,” he says matter-of-factly of his no-nonsense style.
DOWN-TO-EARTH BUSINESS APPROACH The agency represents and markets a relatively small percentage of the more than half-million oil barrels produced each day in Kern County. Still, Clark says the 40 to 50 independents, many of them “mom-and-pop” operations drilling up to two barrels a day, comprise some 140 properties and a collective 10,000 barrels of oil a day. “These little guys are important in the overall operation of
oil because a lot of the independents are taking the risks for new finds,” he says. “The wildcatters remain a very important group of people.” Clark’s easygoing, almost folksy appeal, which is often couched in good humor, has earned him wide respect and admiration from his peers. He is modest in return. “I have been lucky to have been surrounded by gentlemen for whom money wasn’t everything, and they did the right thing,” he says. “I think very fondly on my relationships with some of the old oil guys from some of the finest companies ever, when deals were made with a handshake. I witnessed that a lot and we have lost that tie. I miss it.” Like many young student athletes, Les Clark once aspired to be a coach. Today, he’s a passionate cheerleader for one of Kern’s major industries. His office is filled with momentos of a remarkable career — replicas of oil derricks and souvenirs of world travels. And there are his prized pewter figurines, mostly of the wild west. They are part of a massive collection. “I’ve told June when I kick off, don’t figure those pewter things are nick knacks. They will be an investment for somebody.” With no plans to retire, Clark says his biggest joy is family time, including with 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild, the “curtain climbers” and “crumb snatchers” of the clan. “I enjoy life.”
A Senior Community Designed for You • Community Gardens • Spacious Single Level Floor Plans • Cottage Style Apartment Homes • Walking Distance to Shopping, Dining, Banking & Entertainment! • Relaxing Pool & Spa
(661) 589-9900 2720 Calloway Drive, Suite E
www.ThurmanVetCenter.com 116
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
• Media Center • Putting Greens • Fitness Center • Weekly Social Events • Electronic Gate Access • Pet Friendly
4015 Scenic River Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93308 661-588-2400 www.VillasAtScenicRiver.com Directions: From Highway 99 take the Olive exit going West. Turn left onto Coffee Rd, and left on Meany Avenue. Turn left onto Scenic River Lane.
REAL PEOPLE
ROCK STAR
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Local Aera Energy geologist chats about the science behind one of Kern County’s biggest industries
Bonnie Bloeser is a geologist with Aera Energy. 118
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Compiled by Kevin McCloskey
Leave your
T
he oil and energy industries are huge in Kern County. In fact, we lead California in the production of oil and natural gas. Much of the county’s workforce is involved directly or indirectly with oil and gas production, and Bonnie Bloeser, senior staff geologist at Aera Energy LLC, recently spoke with us about what it takes to be a part of this complex and challenging industry. The fourth-generation Los Angeles native moved to Bakersfield 17 years ago from the San Diego area and has been with Aera since. We asked her to give us a glimpse into her world.
Valentine’s Day
What is your current position with Aera Energy? I have had various assignments in surveillance and development for the San Ardo, Coalinga, Midway Sunset and Belridge fields. My current role is senior staff geologist in the diatomite thermal recovery group, working on diatomite reservoirs in the Midway Sunset Field.
• Easy Parking
How far back does your interest in geology go? As a young girl, our two-acre backyard allowed for considerable exploration. At an early age, I would leave the house at dawn, meet up with my girlfriends, and go exploring, collecting natural things, digging tunnels in the hillsides and climbing trees throughout the neighborhood. As a young girl, it was more of a rudimentary desire to understand the rocks and fossils I collected — to identify them and catalogue them. I started a rock, fossil and shell collection when I was a young girl and many elementary school “show and tell” opportunities were often on the latest rock I dug up or shell found at the beach. In college, the more specific aspect of geology that interested me were marine geology and oceanography.
gift wrapping to us!
• Proudly Serving our Community for 60 years • Gift Wrap • Delivery Service • Quality Merchandise we stand behind
BAKERSFIELD’S ORIGINAL BRIGHTON STORE www.shopchristines.com 4915 Stockdale Highway • 661-834-3068 Monday - Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5
How did you first get started in the energy industry? One significant experience which lead to my career as a petroleum geologist resulted from a 1977 summer internship with Shell Oil in Houston, Texas. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience and knew then that oil company work was the place for me. I returned to UCLA, completed my master’s in geology, and decided to stay in California, where I took a job with Texaco. My first assignment was to develop a drilling strategy for the early wells in the Yowlumne Field, right here in the San Joaquin Basin. What skills make for an accomplished geologist? Possessing an inquisitive mind with the initiative to figure things out, geologically speaking. There is hardly a roadcut I’ve passed, an outcrop I’ve hiked, or an underwater cave I’ve explored where I didn’t ask myself, “I wonder how this formed?” The interplay between the structure of a rock formation and the relationship of the rock layers, coupled with how they were deposited and deformed, are important questions that any geologist should ask. What is the biggest misconception many people have about geologists? There have been more than a handful of times in my life that if I tell someone I’m a geologist, they think I hunt around for old bones. Geology is a discipline that incorporates many of the traditional sciences of chemistry, physics and biology. This integration of multiple
Exp: 2/28/14
Exp: 2/28/14
Continued on page 120 bakersfieldlife.com
119
Continued from page 119 sciences is one of the aspects I truly enjoy about geology. Do you have a favorite geologic formation or place? Catalina Island, either hiking the trails or diving underwater. My great grandfather built one of the original houses in Avalon, and I’ve vacationed at this house every year since I was born. Catalina Island is one of those extremely complex geologic places due to the high degree of faulting and uplift. The metamorphic rocks are quite varied. A close second would be any of the Tahitian islands in French Polynesia. What advice do you have for future geologists? For young children — get outside and explore your world! This exploration will hopefully lead to an appreciation of the natural world and a desire to understand the geologic landscape of the places you visit. Bakersfield is an excellent place to start exploring from, be it a trek down the dry bed of the Kern River to observe the sediments deposited, or a drive to Yosemite to marvel at the glacial geology.
120
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
FIT AND FRESH
By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann
Photos by Sally Baker
EVENTS TO KEEP FIT • Bakersfield Unofficial Marathon Race: Run 26.6 miles, or as many as you’d like, on Saturday, Feb. 8, starting at Derrel’s Mini Storage on China Grade Loop. Entry fee is $5, with T-shirt available for $15. Hot dog and drinks available after finish. More information: underwoodg@msn.com. • Children’s clinic: Sponsored by San Joaquin Community Hospital and First 5 Kern, a free children’s mobile immunization clinic will be held Tuesday, March 4 at Park at River Walk, 11200 Stockdale Highway. • Full Moon Ride: The Bike Bakersfield hosted event is held each month on the full moon at Beach Park, 3400 21st St., Start times vary according to the season. More information: bikebakersfield.org. • Keyesville Classic: The 26th mountain bike stage race will be held Saturday and Sunday, March 29 and 30, near Lake Isabella in the Keyesville Recreation Area. Take Highway 178
A FIT-ING FEBRUARY
Keep fit with winter races and healthy with recipes, skin treatments
Cooked squash break s into spagetti-like strands.
Squash can be cooked in the oven or a crock po t.
Toss shredded squash with cooked pasta.
122
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
east, and take the Kernville Exit. More information: sambarn.com or keyesvilleclassic.com. • Kern River Trail Run: The 5K, 10K and 10-mile run will be held Saturday, March 29. More information: bakersfieldtrackclub.com. — Sally Baker
SPAGHETTI SQUASH (CUCURBITO PEPO) When cooked, this squash’s inner flesh converts into strands resembling spaghetti; therefore, a perfect substitute or accompaniment to wholewheat pasta. It is simple to cook, low calorie, low carb and a good source of vitamin C, B6, iron and antioxidants. It also promotes a healthy immune system and healthy gums. One cup of cooked spaghetti squash contains only 41 calories, no fat, 1 gram of protein, 10 grams of carbs and 2 grams of dietary fiber. The following recipe is a super simple, healthy and satisfying supper.
BRIGHTENING UP YOUR WINTER SKIN, NATURALLY Colder outside weather pulls us into warm environments inside, where we cozy up and our skin inevitably dries up. Going back and forth from outdoor activities to the comfort
Spaghetti squash bo lognes
e Ingredients 1 medium to large spa ghetti squash 8 ounces wholewheat spaghetti 1 pound organic ground beef or ground turkey (eliminate if vegetarian ) 1 large can chopped tom atoes (28 ounces) 2 cloves garlic, minced olive oil fresh chopped basil freshly grated parmesan to taste Directions: To cook the squ ash, slice in half, lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and place on a cookie sheet and bake in utes. Or if you prefer, jus oven at 375° for 40 mint toss it in crock pot before work on low, and return home. Just take it will be perfect when you out of pot and let cool before you slice in half and scoop out the see ds. While the squash is coo ling saucepan, and briefly sau , put a little olive oil in a brown. Add the beef or te the garlic, don’t let it tur any fat, then turn to low key, and brown it. Drain est simmering heat, and add the can of choppe d tomatoes. Season wit h salt and pepper. While the sauce is sim me to boil for pasta. When ring, bring salted water boiling, add the pasta. Dra the pasta when tender , add a little olive oil, tos in s. Shred the squash with a strands, and add to the fork into spaghetti-like pasta, toss together gen tly. To serve, place a little squash and spaghetti on plate, top with sauce, a sprinkle of parmesan, and lastly, a small amount of fresh basil. Enjoy!
Lemonade body scrub 1 cup raw or brown sugar 2 cups extra virgin olive oil 2 cups lemon juice Directions: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients into a paste. Add more sugar if you want a tighter paste. Transfer to a large mason jar. Using a clean washcloth, apply in circular motions to feet and other dry problem areas. Shower, towel dry and follow up with apricot oil or other moisturizer. It’s magic!
— Katie Kirshenmann
Lemonade facial ingredients. of heated homes takes a toll on our skin. There are natural ways to heal dry, itchy winter skin. A “lemonade facial” not only works, it’s made with inexpensive ingredients that you already have in your kitchen.
Lemonade facial Ingredients (for normal to dry skin) 3 to 4 tablespoons raw or brown sugar 1 to 2 tablespoons apricot oil 3 lemons, or 1/2 cup lemon juice Notes: This recipe works wonders on hands as well. Just finish with a few drops of apricot oil applied directly to the hands. Ingredients (for normal to oily or acne prone skin) 3 tablespoons raw or brown sugar 1/2 tablespoon apricot oil 2 tablespoons Neutrogena (or another gentle skin cleanser) 1 tablespoon raw honey 3 lemons, or 1/2 cup lemon juice Directions: Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk into a loose paste. Add sugar and apricot oil as needed. Apply in small circular motions to clean damp skin. Work the scrub from your hairline down to your neck using a clean washcloth. Feel free to leave the scrub on your skin for a little while. Rinse with cool water using another clean washcloth to wipe off the excess. If your skin is a little on the oilier side, you may want to follow the last step with mild facial cleanser, like Neutrogena.
Benefits of ingredients: • Lemons: Packed with Vitamin C, lemon juice exfoliates and brightens skin. Over time, the lemon juice scrub will actually lighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots. • Raw sugar: A naturally gentle exfoliator that helps to remove dead skin cells, revealing new skin. • Apricot oil: Lightweight oil that cleanses skin while adding moisture. Don’t be afraid to use apricot oil as a skin cleanser on its own. It’s also the best makeup remover around. • Raw honey: Naturally antibacterial, raw honey kills germs that can lead to breakouts. Raw honey is also an effective moisturizer. Keep any leftover lemonade facial scrub in a mason jar with tight fitting lid inside of the fridge for up to two weeks.
Lift feet off floor, bring arms wide and extend legs.
Crunching in, bring fingertips to heels.
EXERCISE OF THE MONTH: FROGGIES Begin by sitting on a mat or carpet with good posture, long spine, core activated. • Lift feet off floor, bring arms wide and extend legs. • Crunching in, bring fingertips to heels. Repeat. • Maintain strong core and good posture throughout. • Start with two sets of 10 reps, increasing reps as core strength increases. Benefits: core/back strengthening, works hip flexors, challenges balance. — Sally Baker bakersfieldlife.com
123
H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S
Marti Sprinkle's water aerobics class at Total Woman Fitness Center is deep into an evening workout.
By Chelsea Brewer
Photos by Felix Adamo
J
ust because the weather has cooled down doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to get out of the water. In fact, an excellent way to maintain your overall health is by participating in water aerobics, an exercise method that has been utilized for years in the treatment of several ailments, ranging from arthritis to insomnia. And you don’t have to limit yourself to the pool. Water aerobics can also be performed in your jacuzzi or even your bathtub, according to local veteran water aerobics instructor Marti Sprinkle. “It’s a feeling I can’t describe. You just feel revived,” she said. “You know that your body is in better condition after a class than when you first got in the water.” After teaching swim lessons and life-guarding for years, Sprinkle was asked by Tehachapi Valley Parks and Recreation if she would teach a woman’s exercise class. She ended up devising her own program using ideas from modern dance and tennis, became certified in several treatment programs, and has now been teaching her techniques for more than twenty years. Sprinkle has even written a book on the subject of water aerobics. “Water Wonder Works” — available at local book stores and even online at amazon.com— is a guide to therapeutic water exercises. “I designed the book with a removable cover and room to punch holes in the binding so people can take it with them to the pool and follow along with the exercises.”
COME ON IN, THE WATER’S FINE It’s never too cold to try indoor water aerobics
124
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Judy Johnson is having fun while staying in shape with water aerobics.
Water aerobics is beneficial for all ages. It’s a low-impact exercise, so it’s great for senior citizens or anyone recovering from surgery or looking for an alternative to physical therapy. With constant pulsation of the water against the body, the aerobics also benefit circulation and elimination, Sprinkle said. Several of Sprinkle’s clients come to her for better overall health. Many of them report better sleeping and digestion, an aversion to salty and fatty foods, and lower stress levels. The aerobics classes also help people socialize. “Many women develop bonds and stay friends because of the classes,” Sprinkle said. “They support each other.” Today, Sprinkle teaches two classes a week at Total Woman Gym on Truxtun Avenue, but local classes are also hosted by Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy, Terrio Physical Therapy & Fitness and Jacobo Physical Therapy, among others. “Water aerobics is the wave of the future,” she said.
WATER AEROBICS: TRY THIS • For knee or hip replacements, simply walk forward then backwards in the water. You can also march in place. • For lower back exercises, stretch those lower pelvic muscles. • For arm and shoulder exercises, you can use Styrofoam weights, called bells, to produce resistance and help tone those muscles.
Places offering water aerobics classes in Bakersfield
Marti Sprinkle is a certified water aerobics instructor with more than 25 years of experience.
• 24 Hour Fitness: Offers senior citizen classes. (Various locations, 24hourfitness.com) • Total Woman Fitness Centers for Women: Offers deep and shallow water classes with flotation bells. (5329 Truxtun Extension, 325-0208, twfitness.com) • McMurtrey Aquatic Center: Minimum age is 12, $35 per class. (1325 Q St. #100, 852-7430, www.bakersfieldswim.us)
Want to learn more? Pick up Marti Sprinkle’s new book, “Water Wonder Works: A Guide to Therapeutic Water Exercise.” This step-by-step illustrated manual has more than 180 color photos offering customized exercises for every part of the body and muscle group. It features low-impact series of exercises that can be performed in the your pool, spa or tub that can help manage pain, strengthen muscles and improve mobility. Find “Water Wonder Works” on Amazon.com, including for your Kindle.
bakersfieldlife.com
125
GOLF
By Jacque Servadio
Y
ou’re on the 18th hole at Buena Vista Golf Course, and you’re about to break 80 for the first time in your life, if you can make bogey or better on this par 4. You have hit a good drive down the middle of the fairway, and now you just have to get it on the green, or close to it, so you can get up and down to beat your personal best of 82 by three strokes. So, there you are in the middle of the fairway, getting set up over your shot. You take a final look down the fairway at the green and then you see the bunker to the left of the green and think to yourself, “Don’t hit it in the bunker.” As the old saying goes, “What we think about, we bring about.” And those famous last words just became a reality after you look to see where it is heading — right in the bunker! Will you still be able to break 80? This is where good decision-making can save you from a possible disaster on the last hole. This is no ordinary bunker shot, though; it’s one of those long 30-yard shots that we all hate! Surprisingly, most golfers don’t give much thought to how they should play this shot. They mindlessly grab their sand wedge and head to the bunker, but is that the right choice? Many golfers would say “Yes, I’m in the sand trap next to the green, aren’t I?” But is hitting a sand wedge from 20 to 30 yards from the green the best decision? I would say “no.” When you have a long bunker shot, if you use your sand wedge, it either won’t get there, or you have to take too much of a chance to get it there — you might scull it, or you’ll have to take such a big swing that you chunk it. For this shot, I want you to use a 9-iron. With this club, when you open up the clubface, it creates effective bounce, which lets the club skim through the sand like a sand wedge does. So, the same swing that would have gone 10 yards with the sand wedge goes 25 to 30 with a 9-iron. Making that decision to hit the 9-iron instead of the sand wedge could be the difference between an easy bogey, or making
Special Services Include: • Colonoscopy • Endoscopy • Video Capsule Endoscopy • ERCP • Cancer Screening Esophageal pH & Motility Study • Treatment fo Liver Diseases • Ambulatory Endoscopy Center 9870 Brimhall Rd. #100 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661)588-8725 Fax (661)588-8749
20041 Hwy 202, Valley Blvd., Unit 3, Tehachapi, Ca 93561 (661) 822-0377 Fax (661) 588-8749
www.bakersfieldgi.com 126
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Neil Bautista hits out of the bunker on no. 18 at Buena Vista to within 10 feet to save par and win the 2013 Kern County Amateur by one stroke.
PHOTO BY ROD THORNBURG
THE PERFECT 9
double or even triple. Don’t take this tip immediately to the golf course. Give yourself plenty of time to practice this shot so that you gain confidence with it. Start with a shorter shot, then one of medium length, and finally try a long one as you get more comfortable with it. — Jacque Servadio, an LPGA Class A teaching professional at Kern River Golf Course, specializes in skill-based golf instruction. More information, appointments: www.jsgolfinstruction.com, 301-5944 or jacque@jsgolfinstruction.com.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
TRIP PLANNER
Colors are plentiful in the Johnsondale area in the fall.
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS Trail at Johnsondale Bridge, past Kernville, offers an easy scenic trek along the beautiful Kern River By Lois Henry
128
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
South Creek Falls is right around the corner from the Johnsondale Bridge.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
A
s some of you may know, I love the Kern River. Upper, lower, middle — it doesn’t matter, I love that river. It’s our own backyard jewel. So, I feel kind of bad I haven’t taken better advantage of trails along the river. I’d heard about the Johnsondale Bridge hike for a number of years, and on a whim one weekend in December, I decided to check it out. It’s a total recommend for anyone who has a similar affinity for hiking and the Kern River! The drive is a long two hours no matter how you cut
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIRSTCAMPTRIP.COM
The bridge is two-hour drive from Bakersfield.
PHOTO BY LOIS HENRY
it, so set aside a little time to get there. You head up Highway 178, through Kernville and then take a left at the stop sign at the end of town. That’s about an hour-plus of the trip. From there, it’s another hour-ish to the bridge. Or maybe I just drive slow, ‘cause I’m head-whippin’ at all the beautiful scenery. Seriously, it’s hard not to stop at every curve and snap pictures! When I first moved to Kern, I covered the Kern River Valley area as a news reporter. It took a little while, but I really grew to love the spare, oddly A-framed mountains. I was used to thickly forested mountains that roll upwards with an occasional spiky peak. There’s definitely a more “bleak” beauty to the Kern River Valley. And the accent on that beauty is the Kern River, crashing and slicing through the valley over a collection of jumbled granite. Everytime I go up there, I think, “Why am I not up here every weekend?” The Johnsondale Bridge made me feel that way times 10. After passing through Kernville and up the hill, you pass River Kern and eventually McNally’s Fairview Lodge. If you don’t pack a lunch for the hike, don’t worry. Burgers at McNally’s are the best. After just a few more curves, you’re there. It’s the only bridge around. But since I didn’t see any signs that said “Johnsondale Bridge,” I was a total goober and ran up to a
PHOTO BY LOIS HENRY
The Johnsondale Bridge hike is a beautiful, relatively easy, four-mile round trip along the Kern River.
At approximately 4,000 elevation, the hike offers fresh air and clear water. forest ranger who happened to be in the parking lot to ask “Is this the Johnsondale Bridge?” He was gracious enough to simply say, “Yes,” and caution me that the trail had tricky footing.
Continued on page 130 bakersfieldlife.com
129
It’s a gorgeous hike and not difficult at all. You can hike two miles in and two miles out, or however much you want. You park across the river from where the trail starts. But it’s all good because there is a special walking bridge back across the river, and a long set of stairs down to the trail. Even though I would rate this trail as mild, since there is no steep elevation gains, I will caution you that it’s pretty rocky in some parts. It’s also narrow with steep dropoffs, so if you take kids, watch out for them. And if you take dogs, try not to let them run back and forth past people’s legs. Another serious word of caution: this is a forest. There are wild animals in the area, and in the summer of 2004, a mountain lion attacked a hiker who struck out on her own on the Johnsondale Bridge trail. Please be aware of your surroundings, watch your animals and don’t hike alone! Back to the hike: the walk upriver is just flat gorgeous with oaks and pines shading much of the way. And there are plenty of side trails down to the river for exploring. In fact, if you do as much exploring as I did, you won’t make it very far back on the trail. But that’s OK — it’s the Kern River!
The Johnsondale Bridge is the only bridge in the area. You can’t miss it.
*&$7%( 9&&)
'"# 5$%0+ 9&&)
20+7.&34$ 9&&)
Pine Mountain Inn ,&!$ 6&/1 '&!("%0( -4"%3%1
130
Pinecone Room
(877) 246-4922
8"%$ 9&&)
Rose Room
PHOTO BY LOIS HENRY
Continued from page 129
16231 Askin Dr. Pine Mountain Club, CA
www.pinemountaininn.com/pinemountaininn@gmail.com
Club Room
Just a few steps from shops, eateries and the outdoors. Come relax and play with us in the beautiful Los Padres National Forest!
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
PRIME FINDS
1 1
Victoria’s
Isn’t it time to spoil yourself! Victoria’s is your locally owned Heart Store and carries the full line of Brighton watches and accessories. Open seven days a week. In The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave., 665-8300.
2
Creation Craze
Come into Creation Craze and create something sweet for the one you love. We have a great selection of Valentine items: plates, mugs, frames and more. 9680 Hageman Road, Suite D; 588-7107.
3
3
Eva’s Boutique
2
Man Up! Men’s grooming products extend far beyond deodorant, shaving cream or a little splash of cologne. Now there is a man’s secret to smooth, youthful skin: NeriumAD. 5009 Stockdale Highway; 472-4818; vapadilla.nerium.com.
4
4
Uniquely Chic
Give that special someone in your life a beautiful rose with a diamond bouquet from your favorite local florist. Make this Valentine’s day one you won’t forget. 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 701; 588-7997; uniquelychicflorist.com.
5
Kuka’s Folk Art
A one-of-a-kind, rustic heart Angel is only one of the many gift choices we have available for your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day. Handcrafted and painted, this angel is 15 x 14 inches. 1609 19th St.; 325-0000; kukasfolkart.com.
6
5
Full Bloom
Hometown pride. Our 1901 Bakersfield map captures the city as it once was. Measuring 44 x 62 inches, it makes an impressive statement for the home or office. $850.00. 4909 Stockdale Highway.; 831-1751; facebook.com/fullbloombakersfield.
7
Farm Girls Vintage Finds
Mint-colored, four-drawer distressed dresser. $175. We offer a variety of one-of-a-kind pieces for vintage weddings, photo props and your home. We buy and sell. 7200 Shafter Road; farmgirlsvintagefinds.com.
8
Color Me Mine at The Marketplace
Color Me Mine has hundreds of items (many of them heart-shaped), plus a talented and friendly staff to help you “declare your love.” Check out their website for adult and kid’s holiday events. 9000 Ming Ave.; 664-7366; www.bakersfield.colormemine.
9
Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth
Fine handmade mouth-watering English toffee made by Aunt Mae’s Sweet Tooth. Available at Luigi’s, Sweet Surrender Bakery, Cafe Med, Flourishing Art and Sullivan Petroleum stores. 725-5200; auntmaessweettooth.com.
132
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
6
7
Outside Sales Account Executive Medical Advertising Sales
O
ur Advertising Division has an opening for an Outside Sales Account ExecutiveMedical Sales. This position will market to the healthcare industry and sell the benefits of specialty print and digital advertising with The Bakersfield Californian in a professional and knowledgeable manner towards achievement of sales goals. These products include (but not limited to) The Bakersfield Californian, BWell magazine, BWell Live, Bakersfield Life Magazine, Bakersfield.com and other Californian products. Annual Earnings Potential of $55,000-75,000. Preferred qualifications:
8
9
• Ability to present marketing information and communicate the value of marketing through The Bakersfield Californian’s suite of products. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) • High School Diploma or equivalent, Bachelor’s Degree preferred. • Must have California Driver’s License with acceptable DMV record, independent transportation and insurance. • 1- 2 years inside or outside sales experience. Previous media knowledge or sales experience is beneficial, especially in the healthcare industry • Ability to understand the client’s business and respond with creative solutions. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Ability to multi-task and sell in more than one product • Ability to understand and make established deadlines on a daily basis • Good working knowledge of local marketing data is essential
Submit a resume/application to: The Bakersfield Californian Attn: Human Resources – Outside Sales Medical PO Box 440, Bakersfield • CA 93302-0440 Fax: 661 395-7484 • E-mail: jobs@bakersfield.com All applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug screen and a background investigation. Equal Opportunity Employer
bakersfieldlife.com
133
First Friday Downtown Jan. 3 Held at Metro Galleries Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Eve-lyne Thomas, Larry Thomas and Heather Hustead-Bailey
Warren Miller and Lexi Keene
Thad Rice and Diana Campbell-Rice
Mike Robison and Cindy Hukill
David, Kathy and Dave Dmohowski
Lupe and Frank Kennedy and Jessie and Diane Carrillo
Pamela Cheadle, Jennifer Johnson and Isabel Hermida
Empty Space Awards Jan. 5 Held at Metro Galleries Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Deva Wiloth, Austin Still and Faith Hall
Josh Evans, Jessica Jarvis and Howard Obando
Juliana Paz and Vincent Perez
Josh Lubatti and Emily Candia
Adam M. Fernandez, Alison Martin and Tish Gamez
Ron Warren and Dustin and Heidi McCraw
Taylor Lozano and Taylor Dunn
Jennifer, Lexie and Steve Watkins
Bluegrass Alive benefiting Tigerfight Foundation Jan. 10 Held at DoubleTree Hotel Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Mitch Carter and Kevin Ager
Hugh and Gigi Smith and John Wilson
Larry and Marilyn Fisher
Lori Mariani and Sara Moser
Julie and Dennis Lawson
Connie Yett, Laura Rodriguez Fahey and Chris Wilson 136
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
Kathy Gregory and Cindy Robinson
Renee and Harold Rosales and Debra Bias
Brian Blase and Ryan Stark
Charlene and Stuart “Slim� Sims
Joey and Linda Blagg
A Formal Affair Bridal Event Jan. 5 Held at Robobank Convention Center Photos by Jan St Pierre View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Tim Bergeron and Vanessa Condie
Heather Fullerton, Trisha Camps and Debbie Fullerton
Kristy Oropeza and Jasmine and Jackie Gutierrez
Desmond Cockrell and Christasia Qualls
Andrea Ruiz and Adam Terrazas
Sal Herrera and Yazmin Lopez
Mike Turner and Brittany Benson
Kirstie Hart and Phillip Braem
Briana Peevy and Pilar Avalos
Apollonia and Maria Zamarripa
Daniel Garcia and Alisha Gomez bakersfieldlife.com
137
Fog Run Jan. 11 Held at Lake Ming Photos by Jan St Pierre View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Fred Garza and Javier Escalante
Jeremiah, Bruce and Lilia Malich
Cindy Preciado and Grayson
Mike and Nancy Cesmat
Samantha Ruiz and Laura Flores
Claudia and Servando Almaraz and Brocco
Kimberly Romans-Kroll and Lori Christian
Marko Horvat, David Ronero, Costa Page and Natalie Horvat 138
Bakersfield Life Magazine
Katie Kirschenmann, Beth Espinoza, Ali Dougherty and Noah Calugaru
February 2014
Abby, Pam, Garrett and Zach Douglas
THE 5TH ANNUAL
Be An Exhibitor! Don’t miss the opportunity to promote your product or service in front of your perfect target audience!
Vendors Featuring: • Medical Screening • Retail Shops • Product Samples Mira Patel mpatel@bakersfield.com 395-7586
March 22, 2014 | 10 am - 4 pm | Rabobank Theater healthybakersfield.com
bakersfieldlife.com
139
Polar Bear Plunge Jan. 1 Held at McMurtrey Aquatic Center Photos by Felix Adamo View these photos and more online at bakersfieldlife.com
Hayden Hacker and Lori and Joshua Hamlin
A.J., Daniel and Daniel Soliz
Sean Allen, Piper Meyerring, Tina Ferrell and Ivy Tatum
Dolores Brackett and Katie Feeney
JonPaul LaFever and Jack Waguespack
Donald, Jessica, Valorie and Charlotte Gonzales 140
Bakersfield Life Magazine
Jade and Alli Pyle
February 2014
Meghan and Matt VanHeerden
Kristyn Feola and Hannah Postma
Alex and Abby Olivarez, Chere Smith and Samantha Olivarez
bakersfieldlife.com
141
LAST WORD
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
By Sal Moretti
The Freeway Litter Program kicked off on May 3.
T
he “Streets of Bakersfield” have long been the subject of song and fame, thanks to country singer Buck Owens. More recently, though, a certain infamy had been ascribed to the streets of Bakersfield: litter on its freeways. State budget cuts, prison realignment, and a host of other issues were generating the most deplorable litter conditions on state freeways. It became so bad that a veteran of the Iraq War was bemoaning how the freeways of Bakersfield looked more like the streets of war-torn Iraq. Something had to be done. The City of Bakersfield, in partnership with a community-based group and several partners, did much more than solve Caltrans’ freeway litter problem. They also created a pathway of hope and purpose for their homeless community. With the leadership of Mayor Harvey Hall, the determination of John Enriquez — the founder of Keep Bakersfield Beautiful Committee — and the commitment by the City of Bakersfield, a committee met and discussed these issues for years with Caltrans present but without result. Through determined efforts, a program emerged. The city had previously engaged in a contract with the Bakersfield Homeless Center to use their clients as a labor force. This contract had proven successful for the city, the center and the homeless. The local Kern County Council of Governments and Caltrans stepped up with funding, the city provided the leadership, and other partners emerged, too. Suddenly, the old sad song was getting a new refrain. On May 1, the Bakersfield City Council approved an agreement with its partners, and on May 3, the crews started work. Initially, one crew of six from the homeless center was
KEEPING BAKERSFIELD BEAUTIFUL A look at how one program, multiple partners helped change city’s homeless, freeway litter problems
142
Bakersfield Life Magazine
February 2014
assigned. Currently, three crews are out daily cleaning litter on freeways. The psychological effect was immediate. What had been a deluge of negativity towards Caltrans and the city turned into praise. Local media and average citizens expressed relief and gratitude that the city and its partners had turned a point of embarrassment into a point of pride. The community was equally pleased that litter was being picked up and that the homeless society had been recruited to solve the problem. Donations from the private sector came in to fund the program as well. The visible effect on the freeways was also immediate. Litter is still seen on freeways, but now it’s in bright orange bags waiting for Caltrans to pick them up. The cleanup crews are out daily, protected by Caltrans safety equipment. There was another visible effect, this time on the homeless center workers — they walked a little taller. Sometimes the only thing separating a person from dignity is work. The transformation of lives and families that resulted from this program is only beginning to be comprehended. The committee was striving to solve a freeway litter problem, but in choosing the path it chose, it created a pathway of hope within a community and also a model on how communities can use limited resources to solve multiple problems. The net economic effect of this program is far more than the basic wage earned by the crews. It is the reduction in the cost to the community these wages bring. In essence, communities are paying themselves when they pay this crew to clean up their freeways. A 2009 United Way Study suggests providing housing for the homeless reduces the cost of care to the community by 43 percent or $40,000 per year per person. Providing income has an even greater multiplier effect. During one week in November, 42 center residents went to work. Most of these workers and their families have secured housing with the aid of this job. The freeways are cleaned. The homeless aren’t homeless. More needs to be done, but as other cities deal with similar problems, it may be time to see how we do it here, on the streets of Bakersfield.
— Sal Moretti is the superintendent for the City of Bakersfield’s Public Works Department, Solid Waste Division.
Sweetheart Deals 2 0 1 4
Accord
2014 Accord Sedan CVT LX Lease CR2F3EEW 5Spd AT
219
$
/mo*
36 month lease, $1999 due at signing niing Closed end lease for 2014 Accord Sedan CVT LX (CR2F3EEW) available from January 7, 2014 through March 3, 2014, to well-qualified lessees approved by Honda Financial Services. Not all lessees will qualify. Higher lease rates apply for lessees with lower credit ratings. MSRP $23,545.00 (includes destination, excludes tax, license, title, registration, documentation fees, options, insurance and the like). Actual net capitalized cost $20,862.22. Net capitalized cost includes $595 acquisition fee. Dealer contribution may vary and could affect actual lease payment. Total monthly payments $7,884.00. Option to purchase at lease end $13,891.55. Must take new retail delivery on vehicle from dealer stock by March 3, 2014. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excessive wear/tear and 15¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP less than $30,000, and 20¢/mile over 12,000 miles/year for vehicles with MSRP of $30,000 or more. See your Honda dealer for complete details.
Visit Your Award-Winning Honda Dealer, Barber Honda for your BEST Deal on a New or Used Honda!
Barber Honda www.barberhonda.com
4500 Wible Road at the Entrance to the %DNHUVðHOG $XWR 0DOO
1-888-503-8891 Se Habla Español
Barber Honda
59
Years of Serving Kern County