Bakersfield Life Magazine May 2015 by The Bakersfield Californian Specialty Publications

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F E A T U R E S May 2015

Best of Bakersfield The wait is over. The coveted annual competition that pits the best against the best has closed, and Bakersfield Life can officially — and proudly — announce the winners in the 2015 Best Of Readers’ Choice Poll. Page 100

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WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE MOM MOMENTS? “When my mom pushed herself to become healthier, happier, beating cancer and accomplishing her goals!” — Tamarra Harms, real estate account executive “My son came home at the appointed time, but set his alarm to sneak out of the house. When the alarm woke me up, I found him gone and locked his window. Later, I heard his window rattling as he was trying to get back in! We laugh about that now!” — Linda Petree, advertising account executive “My mom loves to tell people the story of how I peed in my own mouth. I was a baby! It wasn’t intentional!” — Mark Nessia, assistant managing editor “When my mom hiked up this gigantic hill with me and my husband. She doubted herself but she did it! Now she won’t stop!” — Olivia Garcia, editor “Any time spent enjoying nature with my mom is always a wonderful memory. One of the most memorable times was when we took a three-day photography class in Yosemite National Park together. Of course, the nature was beautiful but finding a new passion (photography) for me that my mother also shares was extremely special.” — Ginny Cowenhoven, associate publisher “I love that mom was always there – whether I wanted her to be or not. She provides great advice, helps whenever she can, and she and my dad even drove me across the country in an RV in an attempt to drag out my trip to college!” — Anna Smith, contributing writer 10

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Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine May 2015 / Vol. 9 / Issue 8 Bakersfield Life™ Magazine is published by TBC Media The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month and available with The Californian through its digital subscription. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse Associate Publisher Virginia Cowenhoven President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Chief Operating Officer Logan Molen 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 Market Research Lisa Beason, Jose Granados Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Mark Nessia Specialty Publications Coordinator Laura Liera Art Director Glenn Hammett Editorial Interns Heather Hoelscher, Gloria Saldivar Photography Felix Adamo, Sally Baker, Henry A. Barrios, Casey Christie, Nick Ellis, Dianna Greenlee, Robert E. Klein, Tanya X. Leonzo, Michael Lopez, Mark Nessia, Greg Nichols, Carla Rivas, Jan St Pierre Contributing writers Sally Baker, Katelynn Camp, Angel Carreras, Elizabeth Castillo, Diana Greenlee, Ken Hooper, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Stephen Lynch, Shelby Parker, Gabriel Ramirez, Katy Raytis, Cheryl Scott, Anna C. Smith, Chris Thornburgh, Miranda Whitworth, Lisa Ybarra On the cover Graphic illustration by Glenn Hammett Nearly 100 categories were included in the 2015 Best Of Bakersfield Readers’ Choice Poll.

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Gloria Saldivar is an intern from Taft College. She will be graduating in the spring with her AA in mass communications. She will then be attending CSUB to further her education. Saldivar was born and raised in Bakersfield. She graduated from Frontier High School in 2013. In her free time she enjoys letting her creative side take control. She’s always ready to dive into new adventures.

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Heather Hoelscher is from Downey, California, just outside Los Angeles. She graduated from Warren High School in 2009 and went on to Cerritos Community College. After completing her general courses, she decided to transfer to CSUB to obtain her bachelor’s degree in communications with an emphasis on journalism. Hoelscher has always been passionate about writing and now gets to do what she love as the features editor of the CSUB student newspaper, The Runner, as well as be the new intern for Bakersfield Life Magazine.

Born in Mexico but raised in Delano, Laura Liera now calls Bakersfield home. After falling in love with writing as a student reporter at Bakersfield College, she packed her belongings and moved to upstate New York to earn her bachelor’s degree in print journalism from Syracuse University. After returning from college, she landed a year internship with The Bakersfield Californian and stuck around for another year as an employee. Liera is now the specialty publications coordinator and is ready to let her creativity flow through the pages. You can catch her hiking with her three older sisters on the weekends or catching a wave at the beach as she boogie boards her way to shore. Something Liera is willing to admit: She’s addicted to frozen yogurt and is proud of it.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

May 2015

or the past couple of weeks, I have had to kindly tell readers and nominees to patiently hang on for the results of the 2015 Best of Bakersfield Readers’ Choice Poll. Although our team had a pretty good idea of the top finalists, we were sworn to secrecy from revealing until the big day, which is today. The Best Of edition is one of our most popular issues of the year as we reveal the Best and Favorites in about 100 categories from Best Overall Restaurant and Best Food Truck to Best Specialty Doctor and Best “Made In Bakersfield” Product. Inside this edition, we highlight the winners in the following categories: Eat & Drink; Mind, Body & Spirit; Do; Shop; and At Your Service. There you will see a few that we picked to spotlight, but the complete list will be throughout these sections. In addition, we decided to highlight a few of our winners in other feature sections, such as My Feathered Friend (CALM Zoo); 12 Random Things (Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar owner Nick Hansa); and Named After (the Padre Hotel). Some of the winners and favorites are returning honorees, a true mark that local readers still love them (i.e., Luigi’s, Smith’s Bakeries and Wool Growers). However, we do have a few new winners and favorites (i.e., Mesa Grill) and that’s a great indicator that our local business sector is alive and thriving. Our readers place a lot of value into nominating the professionals and businesses in contest, and we understand how the winners take heart to such awards. In fact, I have stopped at numerous offices and businesses in

town where I see these Best Of awards proudly framed at their locations. Please peruse through our Best Of edition and see if our readers picked ones that matched yours. I have already spotted a handful of selections that I plan to explore. On another note, we offer a feature inside providing some tips on where to take mom in celebration of Mother’s Day. Sometimes, all we mothers want is some undivided attention from our loved ones. Of course, a treat to a dinner or spa or a shopping escapade doesn’t hurt either. Whatever you choose for your mom, please let her know how much she means to you. A mother can truly be the anchor in our lives. With that said, Father’s Day is around the corner and we would like readers to invite readers to submit their favorite dad photo. Actually, consider submitting one of you and your dad if possible. We will pick some of these pictures and publish them in our June issue in honor of Father’s Day. For more details, please turn inside to the On the Web section. But hurry. The deadline is Friday, May 8. PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO

C O N T R I B U TO R S

Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 • ogarcia@bakersfield.com

Up Front Compiled by Gloria Saldivar

WORD ON THE STREET

Photos by Mark Nessia

The Wind Wolves Preserve. It’s beautiful. It feels like you’re not even in Bakersfield. — Renee Forker

Downtown. There is a lot more happening down here than anywhere else. — Darren Williams

The environment is the best. Bakersfield has a reasonable cost of living as well as easy access to entertainment and businesses. — Bill Kinney

The Mint is the best bar in Bakersfield. It has the best vibes and it’s just awesome. —Jessika Davis

The diversity. I just moved here so it is interesting to see all the different cultures. — Trevor Parker

The people. Bakersfield has a good community. — Kelsey Williams

The Thai restaurants. It’s tough to choose just one, but Nick has been really nice to me at Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar. — Sharon Kinney

The music scene. There are a lot of really talented people here in Bakersfield. — Brad Gentry

The charitable nature of the community. I like how everyone comes together when help is needed. — Josh Russell

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THE BIG PICTURE

Photo by Casey Christie

DISCOVERING NATUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEAUTY Gorgeous field of lupine near Kernville earlier this week.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

May 2015

Up Front

NAMED AFTER

The Padre Hotel has evolved into the hub of downtown’s nightlife.

PADRE HOTEL

hen downtown Bakersfield’s grande dame, the iconic Padre Hotel at the corner of 18th and H streets opened on April 12, 1928, it was hailed as the “finest hotel west of the Rockies.” Built on the former estate of city father, Judge Benjamin Brundage, it pierced the city’s skyline and promised to be the symbol of a new era of modernization and sophistication. The fabled building’s name, unbeknownst to Hotel Padre Corporation stockholders and board directors at the time, would forever be woven into the fabric of an ever evolving downtown. The name Hotel Padre, as it was known then, was selected as a tribute to Padre Francisco Garces, a Franciscan missionary and the first European to enter the area. The Spanish Renaissance hotel was designed by renowned architect John M. Cooper, who was responsible for a number of historic buildings in downtown Los Angeles. The Padre’s lobby, referred to as Peacock Alley, was inspired by the lobby of the famed Biltmore in Los Angeles. Work began in June 1927. Its design called for additional floors, although it never rose 16

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Milton “Spartacus” Miller

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

By Lisa Kimble

above eight stories. Eight months and $435,000 later, the 196-room building – the largest and tallest in the city, was complete. Murals on the walls depicted stories of the building’s namesake, and there were high hopes that it would become the centerpiece of a new business district. In 1954, the hotel entered its most colorful chapter when former county supervisor Milton “Spartacus” Miller and his partners purchased it. For the next 45 years, Miller and city leaders would spar over a litany of issues involving codes and enforcement. Miller used his hotel as a giant billboard to protest city hall. In 1966, Miller defied city officials, refused to install sprinklers and was ordered by the city to shutter the third through eighth floors. But he was as endearing as he was cranky, and he reg-

The Padre Hotel became a mouthpiece for Spartacus Miller’s protests.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

Padre Hotel Best Hotel

ularly allowed friends and acquaintances access beyond the second floor. Miller died in 1999, just two months after he married Lora Gordan from his hospital bed. By then, the once-opulent hotel was a downtown eyesore. A legal battle ensued over ownership. Nearly two years later, his widow and nephews agreed to a settlement. The building was sold to a developer with plans to convert it into condominiums, but after years of delays, construction was halted and the prime real estate went back on the market. The boarded-up old haunt caught the attention of hotelier Brett Miller (no relation), who flew here from San Diego with his partners on a whim. They bought the rundown landmark for $3.9 million in March 2008 and spent a reported $18 million over the next two years to restore the hotel to its former grandeur. The chic boutique hotel opened to the public in the fall of 2010 and today boasts 112 guest rooms, suites, five restaurants and bars.

M O N E Y M AT T E R S

8 BEST, BOLDEST TAX DEDUCTIONS By Chris Thornburgh

threat, and the IRS approved it.

An exotic dancer known as “Chesty Love” deducted implants, which increased her to a size 56-FF. The IRS challenged her deduction, claiming it was a non-deductible cosmetic surgery. However, the U.S. Tax Court allowed a depreciation deduction for her new assets since they were so large, they were considered a stage prop.

Nose job A nose job can be deductible as long as you need your nose for work. A wine shop owner, who was having problems smelling, successfully wrote off his nose job as a business expense. The surgery was medically necessary and his sense of smell played a large role in the success of his business.

Air conditioning Apparently sweating profusely can get one out of paying taxes. It worked for one taxpayer who successfully wrote off more than $10,000 paid for central air conditioning in his home. Due to an excessive sweating condition, he claimed they were medical expenses. He attached a doctor's prescription to his tax return stating that the loss of fluids from sweating could potentially pose a health

Distrustful of technology, one taxpayer refused to use telephones or computers to communicate with his business partner. Instead, he used carrier pigeons to relay messages to his partner who lived across town. All pigeon-related expenses flew past the IRS as deductible expenses.

Ball gowns A famous actress deducted fancy dresses she wore on her television show. She proved the dresses were so tight that she couldn’t even sit down, hence could only be used for show business. The IRS agreed.

Swimming pool

Owners of a scrapyard wrote off the cost of cat food as a business expense. They reasoned that the cats controlled the rat and snake population, thus eliminating a business safety hazard. The Tax Court overturned the IRS’s denied deduction and saved the day. Likewise, a guard dog and related expenses were found to be a necessary business security expense. However if your guard dog is a blind toy poodle, don’t bet those facts will fly with the IRS.

A taxpayer with emphysema installed a pool for his daily use after his doctor ordered an exercise regime to improve his breathing capacity. Since the primary purpose was medical care, the Tax Court allowed a deduction for the cost of the pool (to the extent the cost exceeded the amount it added to the value of the property). The cost of heating the pool and pool chemicals were also allowed as medical expenses.

Vet bills and pet-related expenses A huge win for pet rescuers, a woman was allowed to claim a charitable deduction for unreimbursed volunteer expenses. The taxpayer spent her own money to care for feral cats that she fostered in her home for a 501(c)(3) charity. She spent more than $12,000 of her own money paying for vet bills, food and other items. Unfortunately, the charitable deduction for her expenses was significantly trimmed since she didn’t keep a contemporaneous written acknowledgment from the charity each time she spent $250 or more for her

Thank you for your

charity work. Simple documentation could have saved her a lot of money in deductible volunteer costs.

Cat food and dog food

Bottom line Clearly, these deductions apply to specific facts and aren’t for everyone. Check with your tax adviser on the deductibility of your expenses.

Chris Thornburgh

Chris Thornburgh is a CPA and partner at Brown Armstrong Accountancy Corp. Contact her at cthornburgh @bacpas.com or 324-4971.

Loyalty! AK

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“All of us here at the Red Pepper would like to extend our sincere thanks to our many friends and neighbors for their continued loyalty and patronage. We Strive to keep our Menu and Service the BEST for You!”

Breast augmentation

Carrier pigeons

ver the years, some of the most outrageous but legal tax deductions have been claimed for things most of us wouldn't imagine. Now that tax season is behind you, enjoy the creativity of these write-offs – it’s worth a laugh.

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S H O R T TA K E S

RELAY FOR LIFE OF BAKERSFIELD SUPPORTS AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The fourth annual Honor Run will be held at scenic Hart Park on May 9.

2015 HONOR RUN SUPPORTS CHILDREN LEFT BEHIND

he Kern County Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association, a nonprofit organization, will host its Fourth Annual Honor Run, at 8 a.m. Saturday May 9, at Hart Park. The proceeds from the event will be donated to the KCSEBA and will go to benefit the families of our fallen deputies by providing scholarships for the children left behind. A portion of the money will also go to supporting the Sheriff’s Activities League, which supervises youth activities and programs throughout Kern County. “The Honor Run consists of a 5k and 10k run and it corresponds with Peace Officers Memorial Week. We will have a superhero theme this year and we are asking runners to dress as their favorite superhero,” 18

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Drake Massey, sheriff's commander and race chairman for the Honor Run committee, said. Donations are welcomed in any amount or items can be donated for the prize drawings at the event. There are four levels of sponsorship, Bronze ($100), Silver ($250), Gold ($500) and Platinum ($1,000). For more information on the sponsor levels and to donate, call Vicky Erickson at 868-1676 or Shelley Bertolucci at 3917618. Run participants can preregister online at Active.com. Submission of donations are due by April 30 and can be mailed to Kern County Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Association c/o Shelley Bertolucci 1350 Norris Road, Bakersfield, CA 93308. — Bakersfield Life

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

elay for Life of Bakersfield will be held Saturday, May 2, at 9 a.m. at the Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. The event is a fundraiser walk that supports the American Cancer Society in the areas of research, awareness and services. The relay is a 24-hour event where the teams involved take turns walking around the track. It begins with the traditional Survivor Lap, where last year the event had over 1,500 survivors registered. A survivor will also be speaking at the event. Relay for Life raised more than $1.3 million for the American Cancer Society last year. For more information and to donate, contact bakersfieldrelay@gmail.com or call 3277827. — Bakersfield Life

BURN FOUNDATION LOOKS TO SEND KIDS TO CAMP

he Bakersfield Firefighter’s Burn Foundation is hosting its sixth annual “Send a Kid to Camp” luncheon on Wednesday, May 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Outback Steakhouse, 5051 Stockdale Highway. Proceeds from the event will go toward sending local burn survivors, ages 5 to 16, from Grossman Burn Center at San Joaquin Community Hospital to a weeklong residential summer camp. The camp will provide peer interaction and information on the importance of burn recovery. Those who attend the event will receive a lunch with a beverage, salad, and choice of chicken, steak or salmon with a $25 donation. Lunches are also available to go. For more information call 834-7850. — Bakersfield Life

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S H O R T TA K E S

GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING ARTISTS TO PERFORM AT MUSIC FESTIVAL

SAVOR THE TASTE OF CRAFT BEERS AT FESTIVAL

he largest music festival to hit Bakersfield is happening Saturday, May 23, at the Kern County Museum. The Bakersfield Rock & Country Music & Art Festival will debut with more than 50 musical performances and seven stages, featuring Grammy Award-winning artists. Festival performers — which include LeAnn Rimes and Ricky Skaggs, among others — have sold more than 1 billion records combined. The museum grounds will come to life with country, classic rock, oldies, and rhythm and blues sounds. In addition to the music, there will be other attractions, including arts and crafts, a car show, sports tent, concessions, a costume contest, beer and wine garden, children’s activities, a Ferris wheel, carousel, food available for purchase and a fire-

LeAnn Rimes works display. The daylong festival is from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with national acts starting at 1 p.m. For admission prices, visit bakersfieldmusicfestival.com or call 371-2204. — Bakersfield Life

GO NUTS OVER NUTS AT KERN COUNTY NUT FESTIVAL

ttention all Kern County beer aficionados, the 3rd Annual Bakersfield Craft Beer Festival is back Saturday, May 23, at the CSUB Amphitheater, 9001 Stockdale Highway. More than 20 breweries from California and beyond will serve their chilled craft beers and have well-versed staff on-site to answer any questions. Remember: It’s an all-you-candrink festival. Food will be available for purchase from Moo Creamery, Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe and Kan Pai. Don’t forget your blankets, umbrellas or chairs. No outside food, beverages or weapons are allowed. General admission is $55 and includes a souvenir tasting glass; VIP admission is $100 and a VIP group admission for eight is $750. To purchase tickets, visit bakersfieldcraftbeerfestival.com — Bakersfield Life 20

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May 2015

t’s going to be another nutty year at the Kern County Nut Festival on Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kern County Museum. The superstar of the event will be nuts — almonds, pistachios, pecans and walnuts — featured in signature food dishes. There will be cooking demonstra-

tions, nutty concoctions, music, dancing, arts and crafts, agricultural exhibits, games, health information contests and more. Adult tickets are $10 and $5 for kids 5 to 12 years old. Tickets are available at kcmuseum.org or at the museum gift shop. – Bakersfield Life

BHS QUARTERBACK CLUB PRESENTS 10TH ANNUAL DRILLER FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

nce a Driller, always a Driller. Celebrate Driller football when Bakersfield High School presents its 10th Annual Driller Football Hall of Fame on May 21. The celebration will be hosted by the BHS Quarterback Club and coach Paul Golla, honoring those who have done great things for the team throughout the years. The evening will include a social hour (6 p.m.), dinner (7 p.m.) and an award ceremony

(8 p.m.) honoring those who have been selected. The Driller football valley championship teams of 1937, 1938 and 1939 will also be honored. The evening will take place at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center ballroom at 801 Truxtun Ave. Tickets are $125 per person or $1,250 for a table of 10. For more information, contact Shelly Golla at 3934027 or sgolla@bak.rr.com. — Bakersfield Life

IS IT SAFE OR IS IT LIBERTY SAFE?

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S H O R T TA K E S

KCHCC HOSTS ANNUAL CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION PHOTO COURTESY OF CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD

KCHCC has four levels of sponsorship, including Presenting Sponsor, Padrino/Gold sponsor, Compadre/Silver sponsor and Amigo/Bronze sponsor. Sponsor and ticket prices range from $250 to $3,000. For more information, call the KCHCC office at 633-5495 or email Officeadmin@kchcc.org. Sponsor forms, due April 17, can be mailed or dropped off at KCHCC’s office located at 231 H St. — Bakersfield Life

GARDEN PATHWAY HOSTS ANNUAL HIGH TEA EVENT

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Stephen Neal blocks for Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in 2008.

AP PHOTO/ROBERT E. KLEIN

arden Pathways will host its 13th Annual High Tea event in honor of Women with a Heart for Bakersfield, Wednesday, May 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Seven Oaks Country Club, 2000 Grand Lakes Ave. The event will feature four outstanding Women with a Heart for Bakersfield: Irma Cervantes, Nancy Chaffin, Naina Patel and Wendy Porter. The proceeds of the event benefit Garden Pathways’ nonprofit programs for at-risk and low-income families and youth. For more information, contact Catherine Ontiveros at Catherineo@gardenpathways.org or Karen Goh at Kareng@gardenpathways.org, or call 633-9133. Individual tickets cost $75 and sponsor tickets range from $500 for two tickets to $13,000 for a table of 10. — Bakersfield Life

Former CSUB student, Stephen Neal is an NCAA champion wrestler.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAL STATE BAKERSFIELD

he Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its 13th Annual Cinco de Mayo celebration on Friday, May 1, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the home of H.A. Sala and Sylvia Mendez-Sala located in the Bakersfield Country Club. Sponsors will benefit KCHCC’s business seminars and workshops, business academies in English and Spanish, extensive networking opportunity, among other various membership business services.

AN EVENING WITH STEPHEN NEAL TO SUPPORT CSUB WRESTLING

n Evening with Stephen Neal, hosted by Fight for Wrestling, Bakersfield, to support CSUB wrestling will be held on Tuesday, May 5, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Highway. Neal, a former CSUB student and wrestler, is a three-time Super Bowl Champion with the New England Patriots and a world and two-time NCAA champion

wrestler. There will be a silent and oral auction and a buffet dinner. For more information, call Janis Varner at 587-8157 or Mike Mendoza at 654-2343. For tickets, call 302-4455. Tickets are $75. Checks can be payable to Coyote Club and mailed to P.O. Box 11076 Bakersfield, CA 93389. — Bakersfield Life

“Let’s get this party started.” What better way to bring people together than by taking the time to celebrate that which we have in common? And as more and more people join in, the greater the community grows.

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IN SEASON

LOVE YOU FOREVER, MOM Explore ways to celebrate Mother’s Day Compiled by Bakersfield Life

other’s Day has arrived and many of us are looking for ways to show our mothers or wives how much we love them. The idea is to ensure our hard-working mothers feel special and pleased to celebrate this special day with us. Here are some ideas to show your expression.

Give the gift of sweet treats What better way to highlight mom’s sweetness than with some delicious treats made just for her? If you are a pro, then whip up some homemade confections in the kitchen. But if you have not perfected the art of dessert making, then visit a nearby store for something decadent. And what better options to consider than the popular spots selected by our readers in the 2015 Best Of contest? Best Bakery Winner: Smith’s Bakeries Favorite: Sweet Surrender Favorite: Sugar Twist Bakery

Your mom will no doubt appreciate the chance to indulge on her big day.

Dine her with a meal to remember Mom deserves a night off from dinner detail, and if she is lucky enough, she might have a spouse, son or daughter who is a pro in homemade cooking. If not, no need to worry. You can always treat mom to a more intimate and heartfelt dining experience at a local restaurant. Our Bakersfield Life readers nominated and voted on some of the most popular dining places in town. Although the choices are aplenty, here are some highlighted spots we’re considering for your No. 1. Best Overall Restaurant Winner: Wool Growers Restaurant Favorite: Tahoe Joe’s Famous Steakhouse Favorite: Uricchio’s Trattoria Best Sunday Brunch Winner: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace Favorite: Hodel’s Country Dining Favorite: Village Grill Best Romantic Restaurant Winner: The Mark Favorite: Uricchio’s Trattoria Favorite: Belvedere Room at The Padre Best Italian Food Restaurant Winner: Uricchio’s Trattoria Favorite: Luigi’s Favorite: Frugatti’s

Plan a Mother’s Day outing Busy moms may look forward to a break from the bustle of daily routines. An afternoon shopping trip can be the ideal way to enjoy a special Mother’s Day. And what mom doesn’t love to shop and receive top-notch treatment from her lovable favorites? Check out the following list of places to explore for shopping.

Smith’s champagne cupcake 24

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Best Antique Dealer Winner: Woolworth’s (Five & Dime Antique Mall) Favorite: Mill Creek Antique Mall Favorite: Farm Girls Vintage Finds Best Jewelry Store Winner: American Jewelry Company Favorite: Knight’s Jewelers Favorite: Rogers Jewelry Company Best Local Clothing Boutique Winner: Apricot Lane Boutique Favorite: Sugardaddy’s Favorite: Spoiled Rotten Boutique Best Shoe Store Winner: Guarantee Shoe Center Favorite: Macy’s Favorite: Famous Footwear Best Shopping Center Winner: The Marketplace Favorite: Valley Plaza Mall Favorite: Outlets at Tejon

Take her on a cultural experience For the moms who want to be out and enjoying a great time with loved ones, why not take her somewhere local to take advantage of quality time and inspiration? Take her through a nice walk in the Downtown Arts District where she can visit local art galleries, shop at some neat stores and grab a bite at places like The Mark or the Padre Hotel. Aside from that, consider a visit to a museum to explore art, native critters and local history. The following are a list of local museums that might offer some great options. Bakersfield Museum of Art 1930 R St. Noon to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 10 Kern County Museum 3801 Chester Ave. Noon to 5 p.m., Sunday, May 10 Buena Vista Museum of Natural History 2018 Chester Ave. Noon to 4 p.m., Sunday May 10 California Living Museum (CALM Zoo) 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 10

— Metro Creative Services contributed to this report

F I N D I N G FA M E

JIM WHITE Coach hasn’t let ‘McFarland, USA’ success change him By Shelby Parker

Jim White shakes hands with Julio Olvero during a cross-country practice in 2003.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Kevin Costner poses for a photograph with former McFarland cross-country coach Jim White and his wife, Cheryl, at the Bakersfield premiere of “McFarland, USA” at Maya Cinemas.

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

y now, most have probably heard about the inspirational story of McFarland High’s cross-country team that went on to become state champions in 1987, which Disney recently turned it into a major motion picture. But behind all of the glitz and glamour was a real coach and his team. Coach Jim White came to McFarland in 1964, after graduating from Pepperdine University, where he went on to coach cross-country for 20 years at the high school. White has since retired, but has been a volunteer coach for the past two years, still attending the meets and watching the kids run. When it comes to the sport, White says that he likes the closeness of the group, and that he’s able to talk to them and teach them about working hard, which will carry over into not only the classroom but also their future jobs. But, how exactly has life changed for Jim White since “McFarland, USA” came out? “Well, it has gotten a lot busier,” said White with a chuckle. Since the movie was released, White and the reallife guys from the team have been attending premieres, as well as speaking engagements at churches and universities all across the country. While the fame hasn’t Jim White in 2002. seemed to change him or his family, he does say they are getting more recognition these days. As for spending time with Kevin Costner, who plays White in the film, White notes that he was such a personable and nice man and “it was very rewarding to spend time with him.” While he didn’t have any control over what happened in the movie, Costner had a hand in helping the story along and making sure it stayed true to White’s character. Costner had originally turned the part down the first time, as he didn’t think it portrayed him in the best light. Although the movie does have some differences, it doesn’t bother White. He knows they only had so much time to develop the story for film. “I know it’s not a documentary. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie,” said White, who has seen the movie 16 times now. Each time, he still loves it just as much as the last and added that he “can’t wait to see it again.” White hopes people take away that this is a family movie; it isn’t just about running. It’s something that everyone can

relate to. “I hope they can see my true love for the town,” he said. In fact, thanks to White’s story and the movie, White isn’t the only star to come out of the recent box office hit. He says that the city of McFarland has been gaining a lot of attention, but that has been a good thing. The city has a new logo with the silhouette of a runner, going through the fields with the slogan, “tradition, unity and excellence” written underneath it. Disney even came in with the company Kaboom to put in a new $80,000 playground for the children. The water tank was also redone with the state championship silhouettes painted all around, including the runners’ names through the years. White says that McFarland is “on the move,” with good leadership and it’s doing very well. With the success of White’s state championship titles and now the movie, one must think about the legacy they’re leaving behind. But, that was never the intention with White. “A legacy has to come from the hearts and minds of people,” he said. “Do things the right way, because that’s the right way to do things.” bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

M Y F E AT H E R E D F R I E N D

California Living Museum (CALM) Best Family Recreational/ Entertainment Place

Lana Fain and Draco, a great horned owl

FURRY FAVORITES AT CALM Animals at CALM educate, engage with visitors By Elizabeth Castillo

alifornia Living Museum, which first opened in 1983, has been helping those in Bakersfield and Kern County learn more about animals of all kinds. CALM has been a department of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools since the late ’90s and CALM’s primary goal is to educate its visitors. CALM is home to many different animals ranging from mountain lions to porcupines. These animals are on display at the museum and according to zoo manager Lana Fain, each have very distinct personalities. Visitors can learn more about Sage, 26

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animal. He does double duty at CALM. He’s on display but also goes offsite and helps people build respect with animals.

CALM’s “firecracker” California mountain lion on their next visit. Sage will be turning 5 soon and even though she’s all grown-up, she still loves to play with Fain’s purse and other objects she thinks are toys. Another type of animal living at CALM is the porcupine. CALM houses two very popular porcupines named Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles. These porcupines love almonds and attention at CALM, and sometimes like to stand on their hind legs and beg for more delicious treats from their keepers. These sweet and entertaining animals are among the favorites of staff and bring tremendous joy to guests, according to Fain. While many people visit the animals at the CALM location off of the Alfred Harrell Highway, some animals get to travel around Bakersfield educating people offsite as well. An animal that helps people better understand wildlife is the very popular Draco, the great horned owl. What is Draco’s role at CALM? Draco is an ambassador and exhibit

What’s one of Draco’s tasks as an ambassador? We use Draco to debunk myths about animals. Some people think owls can turn their heads 360 degrees but they can actually turn their heads 270 degrees. How old is Draco and how old can great horned owls live to be? Draco is 12. He was an orphan and came to CALM as a little down fluff ball. Great horned owls can live up to 20 years of age. Can Draco ever be rehabilitated into the wild? Draco has imprinted. This means he is too comfortable with people, and that’s dangerous for animals in the wild. Because he has imprinted, Draco cannot be released. It would have been our preference for him to be free. CALM’s goal is to always try and rehabilitate animals back into the wild but some animals cannot be released because of imprinting. Is there anything else you’d like to share about CALM and its animals? When people see animals in captivity they think that those animals have lost every instinct they have and that simply is not true. It’s important to remember that they are still wild animals. It’s also important to remember CALM’s keepers. Visitors look all around and see these wonderful animals and that is because of our keepers who are out in the trenches taking care of the animals and working with them. The keepers are the stars along with the animals.

ON THE WEB Xxxxxx x xxxxxxx

My Mom and Me Contest

oms go above and beyond for their children. Some continue to go above and beyond for their children even when they are all grown-up. We asked readers to share their favorite photos of them and their moms and what makes the photo so special. “This is my favorite picture of my mom, Linda, and myself, because my parents were still married. My mom always made my hair look pretty. She always did the Princess Leia braids on me.” — Cassie Rector

“My mom, Lucille Miller, just had her 94th birthday. I have four generations and my two sisters have five generations. This picture reminds me of the fun times when we just start laughing until we cry.” — Gail Olds

“(This photo) is actually of four generations in my family: my daughter, me, my mom and my grandmother. It’s a very special photo to me because it’s one of the only pictures taken of us before my grandmother passed away nearly a decade ago. My grandma always felt that if we can help make someone else’s life better, then we’ve done our job on this earth. It’s a belief that she’s passed onto my mother, that my mother has passed down to me and that I now encourage in my daughter.” — Nina Ha

“This is my mom, Barbara Schiffhauer (right), and me on a cruise through the Panama Canal on which we were celebrating my 50th birthday. My mom is my best and most favorite travel buddy. We’ve been blessed to have seen a lot of the world together.” — Jenifer Natto

My Dad and Me Contest Do you remember the time your dad taught you how to ride a bike or let you sit on his lap while you both watched TV? Show him how much you cherish those moments and send your favorite photo of you and your dad to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com for our June issue. Please title your email: Father’s Day Photo Contest. Make sure to include the names of everyone in your photo and why it’s your favorite. The deadline is May 8.

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HARRY STARKEY Passionate about water, his kids and books

What I’m currently reading: I’m currently reading “To the Lighthouse” by Virginia Woolf. It’s one of the strangest reads I’ve ever tackled. She writes in this stream-of-consciousness style that bounces from character to character – very little dialogue or action. It deals with the subjects of time, relationships and purpose (I think). It’s a slow but fun. Favorite authors: Joseph Campbell and Thomas Mann Favorite book: “Stoner” by John Williams. This is a great story that has developed recent popularity. Surprisingly, the book was a flop when it was released 60 years ago. Books I’ve read more than once: “Stoner” by John Williams (two times) and “New Earth” by Eckart Tolle (three times). Other materials I like reading: Newspapers – of course, The Californian.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HARRY STARKEY

s the general manager of the West Kern Water District, Harry Starkey has a passion for water. He sells and manages it as part of his job and uses it in recreational activities, such as surfing and skiing. Starkey is a self-professed “waterman” who was born and raised in Bakersfield, graduating from Highland High School before getting his degree in mechanical engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He has two grown children, Connor and Baylee, whom he is very proud of. Starkey reads to challenge himself and feel more aware and in tune with himself and those around him.

Where I enjoy reading: I have a big leather chair next to my bed that is a great place to read. The book that’s been inspirational in my life: “New Earth” by Eckart Tolle. It’s great exploration of ego and becoming self-aware. Any other thoughts on reading you wish to share with readers? I think it’s exploring literary fiction. It can be challenging but on every occasion that I have, I feel more aware and in tune with people and myself. bakersfieldlife.com

Up Front

HAPPENINGS

CAN’T-MISS EVENTS IN MAY

Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com or via our Facebook page: Bakersfield Life Magazine Ave. $10 adults, $5 children 5 to 12 years old. kcmuseum.org or museum gift shop. The Stylistics & The Dramatics, 8 p.m. Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $43-$83 at the box office, 3241369.

May 1 11th annual Tri-Tip Lunch, presented by the First Presbyterian Church; benefits the Salvation Army summer camps for kids, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1705 17th St. $10. 325-9419. Junk-a-Tique, deals on furniture, clothes, books, toys, sporting goods, appliances. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; May 2, 6 a.m. to noon. Calvary Bible Church, 48 Manor St. 327-3228. Go Red Por Tu Corazon, bilingual luncheon and conference on heart health, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Double Tree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $40. 327-1173.

May 2 Mother and Daughter Tea to raise funds for the East Bakersfield High School’s volleyball team, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., East Bakersfield High School, 2200 Quincy St. $12 adults, $8 children 12 and under. 871-7221. Aliza McCracken book signing, author of “A Season of Miracles: Artful & Poetic Devotions,” 2 to 4 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. Free. 631-2575. Carnival and car show, food games, bingo, raffle, auction, 11 am. to 3 p.m. Shirley Lane Elementary School, 6714 Shirley Lane. Free. Raffle tickets can be purchased at school. 363-7684. Charity Rummage Sale, to benefit Kern County Sheriff’s Reserve, 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. 14602 Redwood Pass Drive. 204-7799.

May 14 43rd annual Spring Barbecue, 5:30 p.m., CSUB Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway, $30 advance; $35 at the door. 6543473.

Presidio Brass

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May 9

CBCC Foundation Bunco, games, refreshments, prizes, 6 to 8 p.m., Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center, 6501 Truxtun Ave. Free for cancer patients and one guest. 616-1661. Marvel Universe Live, through April 10, 7 p.m. Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. ticketmaster.com or 852-7300.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, male participants walk in high heels to benefit Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, 9 a.m. registration. The Outlets at Tejon. Preregistration $15; $20 day of; cash only. 322-0931. Bridge Bible Church 5K Fun Run or one-mile walk to benefit She is Safe, 7:30 a.m. registration. The Bridge Bible Church, 12225 Stockdale Highway. Preregistration $25; $35 day of. 319-6226. Kern County Nut Festival, music, dancing, crafts, games, contests, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester

May 8 Bakersfield Jazz Festival, 7 p.m. CSUB Amphitheater, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $32.50 general admission, $22.50 students. 6542175.

May 4 Presidio Brass, 7:30 p.m. Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $40. bakersfieldcca.org or 589-2478.

May 5 An Evening with Stephen Neal, presented by The Coyote Club; benefits the CSUB wrestling team; buffet dinner, silent and live auctions, 5:30 p.m., Stockdale Country Club, 7001 Stockdale Highway. $75. 302-4455.

May 6 Bakersfield College Health Fair, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Dr. Free. 395-4326.

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The Eagles May 2015

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

Bonnie Raitt

May 21

Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest BBQ Championships

May 15 Tainted Love and Mento Buru to benefit JJ’s Legacy, 5:30 p.m. Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. $35; $100 VIP. Admission includes entry to Biggest Baddest BBQ on Saturday, May 16. Tickets at Christine’s Brighton, Luigi’s or vallitix.

May 16 7th annual Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest BBQ Championships, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. $10. 978-6785.

May 19 Bonnie Raitt, 7:30 p.m Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $59-$89 at the box office. 324-1369.

10th annual Driller Football Hall of Fame, 6 p.m. social; 7 p.m. dinner; 8 p.m. ceremony, Marriott Hotel Ballroom, 801 Truxtun Ave. $125. 393-4027. Bakersfield Job Fest, 9 a.m. Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Free. 633-7104. Go Red Girlfriends Paint and Sip Night, 6 p.m. Color Me Mine, 9000 Ming Ave. Free; must purchase ceramics. RSVP by May 18. 327-1173.

May 22 Espinoza Paz, 8 p.m. Eagle Mountain Casino, 681 S. Tule Reservation Road, Porterville. $40-$55. eaglemtncasino.com or 788-6220.

May 23 Rock & Country Music & Art Festival, noon, Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $135$155. vallitix.com.

May 26 The Eagles, 8 p.m. Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $62$200. ticketmaster.com.

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Up Front

1 2 R A N D O M T H I N G S YO U D I D N ’ T K N OW A B O U T …

NICK HANSA Physician and restaurateur By Shelby Parker

ick Hansa does it all. Not only is Hansa the owner of Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar downtown along with his wife, Sasicha (Pum), but he is also a full-time physician at his own practice, Premier Medical Associates. While attending UC Riverside, Hansa found his passion and love of cooking. He started cooking his own meals on a single burner in his dorm room. It paid off, as it led him to open his own restaurant alongside his wife. While he devotes most of his time to his job as a physician, he spends about 20 hours a week helping his wife and team at the restaurant.

9. The craziest thing that has ever happened to me was getting into medical school. I didn’t actually think that they would take me. 10. My wife and I really like reality TV. We watch “The Voice” and “The Amazing Race.” 11. My favorite character is Winnie the Pooh. Winnie the Pooh is the quintessential star who is underappreciated. 12. I went out on a date when I was in medical school in Redwood, California. My date spotted Arnold Schwarzenegger, and she was the biggest Arnold fan. It’s our first date, and she wanted his autograph, but was to shy to do so, so I actually walked up to Arnold and told him that I’m on a first date and it would improve my chances with this young lady if he would autograph something for her. Not only did he autograph something, but he was so kind as to ask me what I wanted the note to say and on the way out, I ran into him and he winked at me and said, “Good luck!”

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1. I moved to Bakersfield in 1996. I’ve lived here almost 19 years, working as a physician. 2. I attended medical school at UCLA and stayed in the UCLA system to do all of my training. 3. I like to cook. At home, like most men, I barbecue. At Chef’s Choice, I make some of the salad dressings and special sauces for the marinades. 4. I have no idea how to bake. I’ve never successfully even made cookies. There’s nothing in the dessert world I even come close to trying to make. It burns; it fails. 5. I’ve never cooked with any measurement in my life; I have a hard time with recipes. 6. My wife and I like sports. Football is probably a favorite sport! My favorite sports team in football is the Miami Dolphins. 7. I attended school at the U.S. Embassy School in Thailand. 8. I like to travel. Most recently, we really enjoyed Japan.

Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar Best Thai Food

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T.L. MAXWELLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESTAURANT & BAR Downtown history meets fine dining

From left: Dining Divas LaMeka Ross, Amber Chiang, Dianna Hoover, Valerie Mendiburu and Jessica Matthews. 34

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Gorgonzola filet

his month, the Dining Divas headed to another Bakersfield favorite – T.L. Maxwell’s on 17th Place downtown. An amazing local history surrounds Maxwell’s, and tales of the debauchery that took place here run rampant among those who grew up in Bakersfield in the 1970s and 1980s. Terry Maxwell, owner, has a history of the space printed on the back of the menu, so next time you’re downtown, make a stop for dinner and drinks, and read about the restaurant’s past. For us, we found former iterations such as “The Office” quite interesting, and laughed about how many businessmen may have called home to tell their wives they were going to be late that night at “The Office.” T.L. Maxwell’s still has the old horseshoe bar built by infamous bookie Clyde Barbeau, when he ran “The Office” in the 1940s and 1950s, and despite a number of owners between then and when T.L. Maxwell’s moved in, the restaurant still maintains the dark, intimate tones of the day. This is perfect for an intimate dinner, or a place to take a business colleague from out of town when you want to show exactly what Bakersfield has to offer. For several of the Divas, this was our first visit, and we really enjoyed the overall ambience and the variety of menu items. As we have with our other meals, we shared entrees and desserts around the table so we could each enjoy the delicious items prepared by T.L. Maxwell’s.

Appetizers LaMeka Ross on the Cajun crab cakes with roulade sauce:

but these crab cakes were not spicy hot but seasoned and fried to perfection. The roulade sauce served with it was also very tasty. Because these Divas like to share, the cream sherry sauce served with the stuffed mushrooms also taste very good with it, too. Amber Chiang on the shrimp cocktail:

Whenever I see shrimp, I have to try. It’s a rule – right under “chew with your mouth closed.” When the dish of five meaty, large shrimp were placed on the table, I knew I was going to enjoy myself. The shrimp were cooked to a nice bite and chilled to perfection and paired with a cocktail sauce that had a sweeter taste than many. It was a refreshing choice for me. Dianne Hoover on the mushroom appetizer:

Forget about the calorie count and go for this one to

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T.L. Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar 1421 17th Place 17TH PL 17TH ST

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Lobster Milano

TRUXTUN AVE

T.L Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar 1421 17th Place 661-323-6889 www.tlmaxwells.com Open 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday

200 FT

Having Southern roots, I always get excited when I see crab cakes on the menu. When I think Cajun, I think spicy, bakersfieldlife.com

Paula’s turtle cake

Rib-eye with hunter’s sauce

Continued from page 35 share. Seven large, soft mushrooms floating in cream sherry sauce stuffed lightly with red peppers, breadcrumbs and a few other mild spices. It is delectable and suitable for the vegetarians in your group.

Entrees Amber on the chicken Florentine soup:

Our entrees came with soup or salad, and I chose the soup. I am so glad I did! Based on a broth made with T.L. Maxwell’s special seasoning, which even our server Marina said is so secret she doesn’t know the ingredients, the chicken Florentine soup has large, tender chunks of chicken paired with spinach and other vegetables. This could easily be a winter night comfort food! Jessica Matthews on the lobster Milano:

I enjoyed the lobster Milano with grilled shrimp, prawns and lobster medallions in a Gorgonzola cream sauce. The cream sauce was delicious – not too sweet, but excellent flavor with sun-dried tomatoes. Not what you would expect from Gorgonzola. Serving size was great with enough to take home for lunch! Valerie Mendiburu on the filet mignon with cognac demi-glace:

Personally, filet mignon is my favorite cut of beef. I rarely eat steak, but when I do, I definitely go for this one! The filet was cooked to perfection: tender and absolutely wonderful. The cognac demi-glace was the cherry on top; it had a wonderful blend of cognac that made the filet something special. I will definitely be ordering this dish again! LaMeka on the Gorgonzola filet:

Because everything on the menu looked so good, my saying for the night was, “You are going to share, right?” I knew I was going to have a steak, but it was so hard to choose because they all looked so good. I chose the Gorgonzola filet,

Bakersfield Life Magazine

May 2015

which was topped with Gorgonzola cheese smothered in balsamic butter sauce. Marina said this was the No. 1 selling steak, so I knew I made the right choice. I ordered mediumwell, which it was cooked just to my liking and still very tender. The Gorgonzola cheese with the balsamic butter sauce added just the right amount of flavor. The steak was a decent amount that I was able to save some for lunch the next day and also have room for dessert that night. Dianne on the rack of lamb:

As soon as the Dining Divas opened the menu, they knew I would zero in on the lamb, and I am so glad I did. Cooked to a perfect medium as ordered, it was covered with a rich traditional rosemary merlot reduction sauce. The lamb was meltin-your-mouth delicious and covered most of the plate. I skipped the potato and ordered the vegetables, which were broccoli and carrots. Dipped in the extra sauce, they were the right combination to the large serving of lamb. Amber on the rib-eye with hunter’s sauce:

Meat, meat and more meat. Such a portion! Like LaMeka said, the portions become meals later, and mine certainly did. Based on a dear friend’s recommendation, I had a perfectly charbroiled rib-eye, cooked perfectly to medium-rare. I love when a steak has a char on it and I get the crunch on the outside and the tender meat inside. It’s like heaven to me. My steak was paired with a mushroom, shallot and thyme sherry cream sauce; fresh vegetables; and a baked potato.

Desserts Dianne on the Paula’s turtle:

Maxwell’s is known for its desserts, and it has specialties that you will want to either save room for or take home to indulge later. We tried them all, and my favorite was one of the signature selections called Paula’s turtle. Named after Mr. Maxwell’s wife, this cake had whole roasted pecans with graham crackers, dark chocolate ganache and buttercream frosting. What more do you need in a dessert? This one had it all!

Amber on the chocolate oblivion cake:

Imagine if fudge and a brownie got together to make magic. Bow-chica-wow-wow! That, my friends, is the chocolate oblivion. An amazingly dense chocolate cake that forces you to take small bites and savor every bit of the deep flavor. Make sure to share! Jessica on the hazelnut torte with Frangelico cream sauce:

The hazelnut torte is perfect for someone with a sweet tooth! Very rich in flavor with a nice hazelnut and caramel liqueur sauce that complemented nicely. Leka on the Malva pudding:

I have never heard of or tried Malva pudding anywhere before. So when Terry, the owner, came by to describe all the desserts to us and said the Malva pudding is a mix between bread pudding and angel food cake, I had to have it! It’s a dish that is very popular in South Africa. It has a spongy caramelized texture topped with a delicious vanilla cream sauce. It was very light and it literally melts in your mouth. I will definitely be going back to T.L. Maxwell’s!

Paying homage to one’s roots

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Our experience at T.L. Maxwell’s was as memorable as each entree we savored: both enchanting and unforgettable. From the decadent sauces that add a new layer of flavor to each dish, to the rich and delicious desserts, it’s no wonder why everyone in Bakersfield recommends this hidden treasure. As much as we would like to keep T.L. Maxwell’s all to ourselves, the secret has been let out and people are probably already lining out the door.

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Eat & Drink

FOOD DUDES

THAI HOUSE RESTAURANT

Thai chefs and hostesses, along with a variety of Buddhas on display. From the traditional atmosphere to the meals’ presentation, it’s a place that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Dudes dive into authentic Thai flavors

Appetizers

Compiled by Bakersfield Life

Photos by Greg Nichols

hai food isn’t about simplicity. It’s about creating a harmonious balance of flavors that come together to create an ultimate taste sensation that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Thai House Restaurant, tucked away in southwest Bakersfield’s Colonial Square Shopping Center, delivers just that and more. Authentic Thai food lives at Thai House, with authentic Xxx xx x x xxxxxxxxx 38

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May 2015

Richard Collins on the chicken satay: This is a Thai staple. These strips of skewered chicken marinated in herbs and grilled are more sweet than spicy. They come with a peanut sauce for dipping and are complemented with a cucumber salad. Justin Cave on the miang kham: These incredible leafwrapped spinach bites don't look like much, but these pintsized snacks are far more intriguing than I would have thought. Each wrap is filled with an array of Thai flavors – hot, sour, salty and sweet all incorporated together. The ginger and chilies bring the heat and lime adds tartness. The

Thai House Restaurant Favorite Thai Food

The Food Dudes, from left, Justin Cave, Richard Collins, Michael Lopez and Jason Cater at Thai House Restaurant.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The most impressive presentation was the pineapple fried rice. Half a pineapple sliced lengthwise forms a boat for the incredible cargo of fried rice with shrimp, chicken, cashews, egg, peas, carrots, raisins, onions, and, of course, pineapple,â&#x20AC;? said Richard Collins.

Thai House Restaurant 5143 Ming Ave.

VE GA N I M

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Entrees

NE STI ON R WILS

Justin on the red mountain: This beef stir-fry dish is delicious. Red mountain is an authentic Thai dish that is prepared with a bounty of fresh vegetables that includes

Thai House

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coconut and peanuts contribute sweet and sour nuttiness that brings this unique dish together. Drizzle the house special sauce on top and each bite is pure bliss. Jason Cater on the fried pumpkin: These treats send your taste buds into overdrive with their slightly fried, flaky golden shell surrounding a sweet banana. To create the perfect medley, this plate comes with a side of sweet and sour dipping sauce to really add that unique blend of flavors that makes Thai cuisine so special.

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Continued on page 40 bakersfieldlife.com

Continued from page 39 onions, peppers and scallions. The beef is specially prepared and seasoned with basil and chili paste to create a spicy red sauce that complements the tender cooked beef. (While I like spicy food, they take spice to whole new level, so order carefully if you have a low heat-tolerance index.) Michael Lopez on the drunken noodle: This was

delicious. I wasn’t expecting this dish to be anything that would stand out to me. But having the noodles lay over a bed of rice and put-

Pumpkin curry

ting just a little sweet-and-sour sauce on the side really made this dish a tasty treat. The noodles were not plain, but they also were not overpowered with the sauce. This is a dish that I will come back for! Jason the pumpkin curry: If you are like me, a good curry always satisfies your appetite. Combining spicy peppers and pumpkin pieces into a coconut milk broth, this curry provides a great kick for an evening meal. Adding flare to the curry is a complementing dish of white rice served in an authentic, traditional appearing tin pan. From its presentation to its taste, the pumpkin curry is a delicacy that can satisfy the cravings of a group or an individual looking for a great meal. Richard on the barbecued salmon wrapped in a banana leaf: This was the star of the show. Salmon can be

cooked well in many ways, but this technique makes it especially tender, aromatic and moist. The cut of salmon is rubbed down with a variety of spices, both Thai and domestic, including lemon grass and yellow curry, ginger and sweet basil, and then put to bed in a blanket of banana leaf. When it wakes up, it is served with a signature spicy-sweet Thai pineapple sauce. A salmon experience!

Desserts Michael on the Thai fried banana/vanilla ice cream: I

Thank you for supporting the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Bakersfield for 24 years.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

May 2015

Miang kham

love bananas and to have a banana deep-fried and placed over ice cream is just what my trainer does not want me to have. I loved every bite and every calorie that I took into my body! Will you have to run a little extra on the treadmill? Sure. But it is so worth it.

Our overall-review

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Thai House was a great dining experience. It allowed our taste buds to go on a flavorful journey all they way to Thailand and every bite was delicious. The restaurant offers an authentic flare and recipes that highlight the use of fresh ingredients. So the next time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the mood to try something new and memorable, keep Thai House on your list.

Richard Collins digs into the fried bananas with vanilla ice cream. bakersfieldlife.com

Eat & Drink

FOOD AND WINE

Chicken lettuce wraps

SPRING-A-LICIOUS Discover tasty, healthy dishes for the season Compiled by Bakersfield Life

is the season for outdoor fun, spring-cleaning and eating right. That’s right. As many of us embrace the warmer sunny weather and take on more outdoor activities, we also want to look great at it, and a big role in that is what we eat. So why not incorporate some delectable, healthy spring recipes into your meal plan that will satisfy your tummy but at a reduced caloric price. We ask a few of our staffers to contribute some of their favorite spring dishes. Here’s what they had to say: 42

Bakersfield Life Magazine

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Chicken lettuce wraps “This light recipe is perfect for a spring or summer evening when you can fire up the grill and eat outside. The lettuce creates a nice crunch and the sauce is just out of this world.” — Katelynn Camp Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts Dash of garlic powder Dash of salt 1 head Romaine lettuce 1 cup rice 1 15-ounce can black beans Dash of cumin Dash of salt 1 15-ounce can, whole kernel yellow corn Marie’s Creamy Chipotle Ranch spread Directions: Butterfly chicken breasts and rub with olive oil, garlic powder and salt.

Place on grill and cook for 10 minutes, turning breasts over after six minutes. You’re looking for char marks on either side to give nice barbecue taste. Once cooked and cooled, slice grilled breast into short, thin slices. Wash Romaine lettuce and pull off four large-sized leafs. Set aside. Place one cup rice in pan and gently fry until rice kernels are broken, then add two cups of water and bring to boil. Once boiling, turn to simmer and cover with lid. Let simmer for 10 minutes or until firm. Pour black beans into another pan, spice with cumin and salt. Warm for five minutes. Empty corn into another pan. Warm for five minutes. Once rice, corn and beans are ready, place lettuce leaf on plate. Layer rice, beans, corn and three slices of chicken on top of lettuce leaf. Top with Marie’s Creamy Chipotle Ranch spread. Enjoy the fresh crunch and warm toppings!

Quinoa with roasted beets and butternut squash “Though butternut squash is traditionally a winter veg-

Quinoa with roasted beets and butternut squash

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5601 California Ave. • 327-5201 bakersfieldlife.com

Continued from page 43 etable, this recipe, served with a green salad, makes for a light, quick, healthy and delicious dinner in spring. I really enjoy the combination of the earthy taste of the roasted vegetables and the nutty flavor of the quinoa, accented with a generous amount of fresh garlic. I also like the intense colors of the beets and squash and the fact that quinoa is a complete source of protein containing all nine essential amino acids, a plus for vegetarians like myself.” — Glenn Hammett Ingredients: 1 butternut squash 4 medium-sized beets 6-8 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 3 tablespoons olive oil Fresh-ground lemon pepper, or regular black pepper to taste 1 cup quinoa 2 cups vegetable stock

Grilled shrimp salad with corn and avocado “This is a relatively quick and easy recipe that exudes freshness and guests will be impressed. It’s low-calorie, low cholesterol, low fat, high fiber.” — John Wells Salad dressing ingredients: 6 tablespoons orange juice 3 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 1 ½ teaspoons freshly grated orange zest ¼ cup of olive oil Salad ingredients:

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Directions: Rinse and drain quinoa thoroughly, combine with vegetable stock in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 20 minutes until liquid is completely evaporated. Cut squash in half, lengthwise, dig out the seeds with a spoon and remove the skin with a potato peeler.

Cut squash and beets into 1-inch cubes and combine with olive oil and garlic in a large mixing bowl. Toss until beets and squash are thoroughly coated with oil. Season with pepper to taste, tossing a bit more, then spread out in a single layer onto a baking stone or cookie sheet (a stone will cook the vegetables more uniformly). Bake at 450 degrees until beets and squash are tender and slightly browned. To serve, create a bed of quinoa on a plate and top with roasted vegetables.

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Grilled shrimp salad with corn and avocado

1 10-ounce bag of red pearl onions 2 pounds uncooked large shrimp, peeled, deveined 3 large ears fresh corn, husked 1 sourdough loaf (sliced) 2 teaspoons hot smoked paprika 12 cups Mache (salad) about 7 ounces 2 avocados, halved, pitted, peeled and cut into ¾ inch cubes Metal skewers For dressing: Whisk first four ingredients in a small bowl to blend. Whisk in olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Cover and put in refrigerator as you make remainder of salad. For salad: Bring a small saucepan of water to bowl. Add pearl onions and boil for three minutes. Drain; cool onions slightly. Peel onions, leaving root ends intact. Prepare your barbecue to medium heat. Thread onions on skewers; thread shrimp on separate skewers. Place the skewered onions, skewered shrimp, and ears of corn and bread slices on one to two large rimmed baking sheets. Coat all with olive oil and then sprinkle salt and pepper on the onions, corn and shrimp. Sprinkle paprika on both sides of shrimp. Grill onions and corn until cooked thoroughly (about five minutes per

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Continued from page 45 side). Grill bread slices until brown. Grill shrimp until thoroughly cooked (about 2 ½ to three minutes per side). Transfer the vegetables and shrimp to work surface. Cut the corn off the cobs and place in a very large bowl. Remove shrimp and onions from skewers and add to bowl. Add salad mix and avocados. Toss salad with enough dressing to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper and place break slices around bowl. Note: Dressing and onions can be made up to two hours ahead. Cover onions and let stand at room temperature.

Mediterranean chicken salad “This is my favorite spring recipe: It’s healthy, easy to make and tastes better on day two or three. Perfect for a light supper on a spring afternoon.” — Richard Beene

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Mediterranean chicken salad

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588-8481 • BRCKitchenBath.com 46

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Annette Mercado General Contractor, C.K.D. License # 865925

Michele Waugh

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All of us at Smith’s Bakeries wish to thank you for the opportunity, over the last 69 years, to prepare the best quality baked goods we know how to make. You expect us to use the best ingredients and our artisans enjoy the fact that baked goods made with a combination of their hands and hearts are still appreciated. AN NI

Ingredients: 3 whole skinless chicken breasts 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and quartered 2 carrots, peeled and chopped 1 teaspoon thyme 1 bay leaf 6 sprigs parsley 1/3 cup olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano Juice of one lemon 4 tablespoons capers 10 cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 pound green beans, cooked 1/3 cup black olives, halved Salt and pepper to taste

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“Made in Bakersfield” Product

Kern County’s Only Certified Master Baker Brookside Market

Bake Shop And Sales

Coffee & Hageman • 588-2070

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White Oaks Plaza

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6401 White Lane • 834-1916

2808 Union • 325-3411

Grand Island Village (Inside Sully’s Chevron Station) 11400 Ming Ave. • 663-8611

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Brookside Market The Marketplace • 654-0858

Directions: Measure 4 quarts of water into a large pot. Add the onion, carrots, thyme, bay leaf, parsley and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the chicken breasts, return to boil, reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is done. Remove the pot and let the chicken cool in the broth. Remove chicken and pull the meat from the bones. Tear meat into small pieces and combine in a bowl with the olive oil and oregano. Cover and let stand at room temperature for an hour. Add the remaining ingredients, toss and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate and serve cold.

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Eat & Drink

FOOD AND WINE

Rich reds, such as cabernet sauvignon bordeaux and malbec, are perfect complements to red meat dishes.

THE ART OF FOOD, WINE PAIRING

flavors can make selecting a bottle or two to accompany a meal a bit more challenging. But one need not be a master sommelier to find the right pairing. The following tips can help anyone select wines to go with their menu or the type of occasion.

Simple rules for wine and food pairings

â&#x20AC;˘ Work from light to dark. Just as you begin a dinner service with some appetizers and salad before moving to heavier courses, the wine should follow suit. Select lighter wines to accompany the earlier course before opting for deeper, richer wines as the meal progresses. â&#x20AC;˘ Consider champagne to accompany appetizers and opening courses. Champagne works particularly well with salty foods, which is why it is often a good match for hors d'oeuvres. If yours is a cocktail party only, you may want to exclusively serve champagne, which typically pairs well with passed finger foods and even bite-sized desserts.

By Metro Creative

alk into many wine and spirits stores, and you will likely encounter a dizzying array of selections. While wine selections at such stores were once limited to a few well-known brands, many niche and private wineries have begun to make their vintages available to a wider clientele, so now shoppers are treated to both familiar and less well-known options. To novice dinner party hosts, the vast array of wines and 48

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AUCTION APPRAISAL EVENT

A TIFFANY STUDIOS FAVRILE WISTERIA TABLE LAMP glass and bronze Sold for $792,400

May 20, 10am-3pm Bakersfield Museum of Art

Bonhams specialists will be visiting Bakersfield to provide auction estimates with a view to selling at upcoming auctions in the following categories: · Furniture and Decorative Arts · 20th Century Design · Fine Silver · Fine Jewelry · European Paintings · Asian Works of Art · Prints and Photographs

A crisp, fresh sauvignon blanc works well with sushi.

PRE-REGISTERED APPOINTMENTS REQUIRED: +1 (661) 323 7219 bmoa.org/bonhams $20 for 2 items, $15 each additional item, maximum of 4 items total. All proceeds benefit the Bakersfield Museum of Art. Bakersfield Museum of Art 1930 R St., Bakersfield, CA

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Continued from page 48

Rosé is a good bet with cheese.

• Opt for sauvignon blanc when you do not want the flavor of the wine to be overwhelmed by the food. Sauvignon blanc works with early courses that pack a flavorful punch. Sauvignon blanc can be grassy or tropical in flavoring, depending on the region in which the grapes were grown. It is commonly described as crisp and fresh in flavor and is often recommended with sushi.

• Match delicate seafood dishes with a light wine. Pinot grigio or chablis are delicately flavored and will pair well with seafood. Fish that is served in a rich sauce may be better matched with a heartier chardonnay. • Make rosé your go-to wine when serving cheese. Although some cheeses work great with white or red, rosé is typically a safe bet when serving cheese because of its acidity and fruity character, offering the best of both worlds. • Hearty meats, such as steaks and chops, pair well with rich reds. Cabernet sauvignon and bordeaux are great when paired with meat. Malbec and shiraz can hold their own if meats are spiced and extremely flavorful. • Rustic wines will work best with rustic recipes. Try to find a wine from the same region from which the meal originated. Pinot noir is a light-bodied red wine that has full flavor and can work with many pasta dishes as well as earthy ingredients, such as mushrooms. Though some people follow a strict personal code regarding wine pairings, your personal tastes should dictate what you ultimately serve. Experimentation can yield an unexpected flavor combination that complements the nuances of both the food and the wine.

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Chardonnay and salmon make a perfect pair.

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MEMBER PRIVILEGES ——— Annual detailing, remote vehicle drop-off and pick-up, a designated experience liaison and a four year/50,000 mile premium maintenance plan that includes replacement of wear items & first-day complimentary service loaner vehicle, and much more!

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With a curated collection of designer vehicle themes—meticulously brought to life in rare, high-end materials—and a host of exclusive privileges, this is more than luxury ownership. It’s membership. To learn more, contact us for details. Jim Burke Lincoln, 5300 Gasoline Alley, Automall • 661-837-6400 • jimburkelincoln.com

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Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

2015 LINCOLN MKC BLACK LABEL Lincoln raises the luxury bar with its new owner benefits program

Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Ed Loh says: “Exterior is stunning. Best modern Lincoln styling to date.” 54

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By Glenn Hammett

Photos by Mark Nessia

ne thing I have learned from driving new cars for the last six months is that there are a lot of great cars out there. After a decade of producing disappointing products and falling well behind Japanese manufacturers in quality and reliability, domestic automakers emerged from the recession leaner and meaner and are now producing cars on par with their Asian counterparts. That, coupled with the proliferation of technological features that are available even on entry-level models, have resulted in an auto market full of impressive options. This parity is particularly evident in the high-end, luxury categories, making it difficult to choose one brand over another. With that in mind, Lincoln has come up with Black Label, a unique set of services and privileges that focus on both the buying and ownership experience. The foundation of Black Label is four designer themes available on the Lincoln MKZ full-size sedan and the MKC small luxury SUV. The themes, Oasis, Indulgence, Center Stage and Modern Heritage, each consists of a carefully chosen combination of exterior paint colors and interior materials such as Venetian leather, exotic woods and cutting-edge fabrics. Additionally, the Black Label program entitles the buyer to an over-the-top set of services, including remote shopping, wherein a Black Label Liaison comes to your home or office armed with a portfolio of paint, wood and fabric samples. The entire buying process is handled outside of the dealership and the vehicle is subsequently delivered to your driveway. Other Black Label perks include four years or 50,000 miles of free maintenance and, when the car needs servicing, the dealer will pick it up, leave you a loaner, then deliver it back to you, washed, when servicing is complete. Once a year, they will detail the car, inside and out. To top it off, Black Label owners get exclusive VIP treatment at a list of noted restaurants across the country, including the Belvedere Room at The Padre Hotel here in Bakersfield.

Continued on page 56

The Center Stage design theme utilizes black stripe wood inlays on the door panels, as well as the dash and steering wheel.

The cabin of the 2015 MKC is extremely quiet and comfortable.

It’s all in the details Price tag: Starts at $46,205, not including destination and delivery. Five best features of the 2015 Lincoln Black Label MKC: 1. The Venetian leather interiors 2. Complimentary yearly detail 3. On-your-terms acquisition 4. Pick up and drop off of the vehicle for service 5. Access to Black Label member privileges, like the exclusive dining experience at the Padre’s Belvedere Room. Target customer: Someone that is looking for fine details in his or her vehicle, one of the best custom interiors in the industry and expects someThe seats are made of thing special out of the ownership Venetian leather and experience. Someone interested in perforated Alcantra. quiet luxury. A recent quote from Ford Motor Company’s CEO Mark Fields: “Luxury, at its best, is about simplifying and quietly exceeding expectations, rather than being the loudest statement on the road.” Three words that define the 2015 Lincoln MKC Black Label: Quality, service, design What do you like most about the 2015 Lincoln MKC Black Label? The Venetian leather interiors with the Alcantara suede that envelops the occupants. Pictures and text really don’t do it justice. The difference between a Black Label MKC and a regular one is very clear right when you open the door. — Source: Chad Yost, Black Label Concierge

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Both the front and rear seats in the MKC are heated and cooled.

Continued from page 55

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The objective is to make car buying and ownership as hassle-free and pleasurable as possible. I drove the 2015 Lincoln MKC, the company’s entry into the fast-growing small luxury SUV category, outfitted with the Black Label Center Stage theme. As you might expect from Lincoln, the MKC oozes luxury, and the Center Stage motif pushes it up a notch. According to Lincoln, the Center Stage theme is inspired by the worlds of

theater and fashion. The black Venetian leather seats are accented by deep red stitching and the dash, door panels and steering wheel are inlaid with showy black stripe wood. The effect is elegant and dramatic. The model I tested was all-wheel drive and was powered by a peppy 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, borrowed from the Ford Mustang. Though I did not get the opportunity to take it off-road, Motor Trend Editor-at-Large Angus MacKenzie said: “The continuously variable torque split all-wheel-drive system works extremely well on the dirt. The AWD MKC strolled up the dirt hill from a standing start and proved fast and flickable through the dusty turns.” Around town, the MKC is quick and nimble, and parallel parking in tight spaces is a snap with the handy park assist feature. A quick trip up 178 gave me a preview of what the MKC would be like on a long road trip. The cabin is exceptionally quiet, the seats are super comfortable and the ride is glasssmooth, especially when the car is in Comfort mode – Regular and Sport modes being the other options. If you believe its television ads, Lincoln’s 2015 MKC is seductive enough to move Matthew McConaughey to utter deep, thoughtful non-sequiturs. Step up to the Black Label version and you’ll really get a taste of how the rich and famous live.

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ON THE ROAD

PERFORMANCE, ELEGANCE AT ITS BEST Maserati Ghibli delivers top-of-the-line excellence By Olivia Garcia Photos by Mark Nessia

or quite some time, there was talk of me landing the golden opportunity of test-driving a Maserati. I was beyond excited about the idea, although my colleague and test-driving partner, Bakersfield Life Art Director Glenn Hammett, was wagering an arm wrestle over who could score the date with a Maserati. In the end, I was the lucky one. My colleague had mercy on me. Test-driving a Maserati is like taking that exotic trip you had been waiting for, for quite some time now. Stepping into a Maserati is like confirmation that you have achieved greatness. You can easily become spoiled by its high-end, flawless exterior and interior design accentuated by its trademark Trident. Maserati of Bakersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Executive General Manager Bob Horacio

Editor Olivia Garcia enjoys spring weather while making a pit stop at the Seven Oaks Country Club in the Maserati Ghibli Q4. 58

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The Maserati “gives performance and luxury at the best quality you can get. It’s a marriage made in heaven,” said Maserati of Bakersfield’s Executive General Manager Bob Horacio.

knows the feeling all too well. He introduced me to the Bianco-colored, all-wheel drive Ghibli Q4 with a manufactured retail price at about $77,000 and with all the bells and whistles at about $92,000. Yes, a Maserati, with all of its excellence, panache and tradition, under a six-digit figure. Totally attainable for those who have purchased similar sports and luxury cars priced in this window, said Chris Scott, a sales executive with Maserati of Bakersfield. In fact, Mr. Horacio says that the Ghibli bridges the gap for those who didn’t think they could afford an exotic dream car like the Maserati. And many Californians may agree, as the dealership’s leader notes that California is one of the biggest Maserati markets. “I’m really excited for that brand,” Mr. Horacio said. “Bakersfield has a great opportunity with the Maserati. It gives

It’s all in the details Five best features about the Maserati Ghibli Q4: Its 404 horsepower with 406 lb-ft of torque; 3.0-liter Twin Turbo V6 Engine; Skyhook Electronic Damping Control; 6 Piston f/4 Piston Rear Calipers; and 8.4” touch control with navigation and 280-watt sound system. The Maserati Ghibli Q4 is perfect for: Everything you can imagine. It is everyday driving and luxury, performance living. What makes the Maserati Ghibli Q4 stand out from others? It does not look like anything else on the road, and you can hear it

before you see it. And when you do see it, you immediately want to stop and look at it. Three words that define the Maserati Ghibli Q4: Extraordinary, exclusive, and seductive. What do you like the most about the Maserati Ghibli Q4: The performance and elegance. It is truly a driver’s performance race car. Source: Executive General Manager Bob Horacio, Maserati of Bakersfield

performance and luxury at the best quality you can get. It’s a marriage made in heaven.” And the timing couldn’t be more perfect, he added, noting that a series of new models, including an SUV, will be heading to the Maserati dealership within the next few years. So what did I like about the Maserati Ghibli? Where do I start and how much space do I have? At the urging of Scott, I gave it a speed test and was floored by its power. According to Autoweek, the Ghibli is powered by a 404-horsepower, Ferrari-built Twin Turbo V6.

Hand-selected leather and silk stitching

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Continued from page 59 Autoweek also noted that Maserati lists zero to 60 mph for the Ghibli S Q4 at 4.7 seconds. Assistant Editor Mark Nessia shot some video of the test drive and yes, I can pretty much agree the pick-up speed was undisputed. Now you know you are approaching a Maserati Ghibli by its unmistakable powerful rumble, a dynamic roar of an engine that you would expect from a fine Italian sports car. Much care is given to the Ghibli’s interior from its hand-selected leather interior and silk stitching and carbon fiber accent. The Skyhook Electronic Damping Control will deliver stiffer sports suspension, transforming your Maserati into a more aggressive stance on the road. However, with normal mode, you can resort back to your smooth ride. However, many will appreciate it as a driver’s performance race car. “The Maseratis are hand-built in performance and elegance,” Mr. Horacio said. “This is truly elegance at its best.”

Nineteen-inch wheels accented by Maserati’s trademark Trident.

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Best Interior Designer

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2015 GranTurismo Convertible Sport Bob Horacio, Executive General Manager

2015 Ghibli $

649 + Tax* for 39 Months

DISCLAIMER: *ON APPROVED CREDIT. Available at Maserati of Bakersfield thru April 30, 2015 to qualified lessees with approved credit thru Ally Financial. Delivery by April 30, 2015. Payment shown based on a 39 month closed-end lease for a new 2015 model year Ghibli with MSRP of $77,975. Total cash due at signing is $5,543, which includes a cash down payment of $3,399, first monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s payment of $649, acquisition fee of $795 and security deposit of $700. Purchase option at lease end for $41,327 plus taxes. Lessee is responsible for insurance, maintenance, repairs, $.60 per mile over 7,500 miles per year and excess wear. Title, taxes, license, registration and dealer fees are extra. VIN # 133419

Lifestyles

ON THE ROAD

2015 HYUNDAI SONATA SPORT 2.0T Redesigned midsize sedan makes a striking comeback

Bakersfield Life Art Director Glenn Hammett with the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Sport 2.0T. The grill and headlight treatment epitomize the evolution of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design approach. 62

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It’s all in the details

The Sonata’s interior is clean and simple and everything is easily accessible.

By Glenn Hammett

Photos by Mark Nessia

o say Patrick Beck believes in his product is an understatement. When I stopped into the Bakersfield Hyundai dealership to pick up a 2015 Sonata Sport 2.0T for a test drive, the dealership’s amiable and ebullient operating partner sat me down to explain his enthusiasm for Hyundai’s redesigned midsize sedan. He resolutely outlined for me the five areas in which the Sonata outshines its more renowned competitors: 1. Safety: Sonata was the first car to receive a five-star rating in each of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s impact tests. 2. Economy: Thirty-two mpg combined highway/city puts it at the top of the class for gas-powered midsize sedan. 3. Warranty: Hyundai’s five-year/60,000 limited and 10-year/100,000 powertrain warranties are the best in America. 4. Performance: Named Best Midsize Car for the Money and Best Midsize Car for Families by U.S. News and World Report. 5. Value: The Sonata is priced hundreds less than its primary competitors. But Beck was quick to temper his zeal with realism. “We have to be better in every area,” he said. “Honda and Toyota have been making great cars for 25 years. Hyundai has been mak-

ing great cars for six years.” I have been a big fan of the daring and distinctive exterior design approach Hyundai calls Fluidic Sculpture. “As free as the wind, as balanced as the water, as beautiful as a flower,” is how they characterized it when it was introduced in 2011. With the 2015 Sonata, Hyundai is moving on to Fluidic Sculpture 2.0, described by the company as “a confident evolution of the original Fluidic Sculpture design language that perfectly expresses Sonata’s premium look and excellent value.” Looking at them side by side, the 2015 Sonata looks more grown-up and more mature than its predecessor. The lines are a bit more subtle and sophisticated. It’s most apparent on the front, where the grill is more angular and the headlights are set back with flat planes. With its upgraded, more aggressive grill, 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome-tipped quad exhaust pipes, the Sport model I tested is a real head turner. The interior is comfortable and extremely quiet for a midsize sedan. Car and Driver says, “The Sonata registers BMW 7-series quiet on the decibel meter.” I was also impressed by the interior’s clean and simple design, the thoughtful placement of controls and gauges, and the fact that nothing is obscured by the steering wheel. Hyundai has called a lot of attention to the

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Gas mileage: There are three different engine sizes available: • 2.4 liter: 25 mpg city/37 mpg highway/29 mpg combined • 2.4 liter Hybrid: 36 mpg city/40 mpg highway/38 combined • 1.6 Eco: 28 mpg city/38 mpg highway/32 mpg combined • 2.0 Turbo: 23 mpg city/32 mpg highway/26 mpg combined Price tag: Ranges from $21,150 (Sonata SE) to $33,525 (Sonata Limited 2.0T) Five best features: 1. America’s best warranty 10 years/100k powertrain, five years/ 60k comprehensive warranty, five years/unlimited mile roadside assistance. 2. 245-hp 2.0L twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder engine that still gives great gas mileage but doesn’t sacrifice power. 3. Proximity Key entry with push button start. 4. Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. 5. Smart cruise control, keeps you a safe distance from the car in front in any traffic condition. Target customer: Hyundai’s target market are those who are looking for an affordable, dependable, fuel-efficient, sporty, well-equipped vehicle at a great price. The 2015 Sonata Sport 2.0T is perfect for: Everyone. With the newly redesigned body and interior on the 2015, it can fit anyone’s lifestyle, from the sporty feel of the 2.0 turbo engine to the comfortable and quiet smooth drive, to the technology and safety features, the sonata makes a perfect vehicle for anyone to own. Three words that define the 2015 Sonata Sport 2.0T: Dependable, sporty, redesigned. What do you like most about the 2015 Sonata Sport 2.0T? The new styling of the vehicle would be the thing I like most of the Sonata. The Fluidic Sculpture of the vehicle gives an aggressive yet elegant feel to the Sonata. The redesigned interior adds to the elegance of the vehicle and D-cut steering wheel with paddle shifters give it a true sports car feel. — Patrick Beck, Bakersfield Hyundai operating partner

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Exterior details on the Sport model include chrome-tipped exhaust pipes.

The Sonata Sport 2.0T strikes a nice balance between sports car performance and family sedan practicality.

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On the road, the Sonata accelerates quickly and smoothly to highway speeds, where it gets an impressive 37 mpg. The 2.0 turbocharged motor is paired with a six-speed transmission to obtain an optimum balance between performance and efficiency. After driving the Sonata Sport 2.0T for an afternoon, I can see why Beck is so excited about the 2015 edition. It looks and performs like a car with a much higher sticker price. Throw in its extraordinary warranty and a midsize sedan buyer would be hard-pressed to find a better choice. I’m a believer.

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Sonata’s new, stiffer high-strength steel chassis and redesigned suspension, which they claim has improved handling, braking, ride quality, stability and crash test performance. John La Blanc of Driving.ca said, “Unlike the outgoing Sonata, the new sedan’s body motions are well controlled, with bad pavement easily absorbed for a smoother ride and a quieter cabin.” Car and Driver calls the chassis improvement “striking.”

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A H E A R T F E LT

SURVIVAL STORY

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When my wife had a heart attack, there was no question that we needed to go to San Joaquin Community Hospital.â&#x20AC;? - Chuck & Sandy Hoyt, Heart Survivors A few years ago, Chuck Hoyt found himself in the Heart Institute at San Joaquin Community Hospital (SJCH). Little did he know that his wife would be in a similar situation on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day 2015. For the Hoyts, there was only one hospital of choice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When my wife told me her symptoms,â&#x20AC;? I said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to San Joaquin Community Hospital. As far as Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m concerned, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no other place to go.â&#x20AC;? Since 1972 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when SJCH was the first hospital in Kern County to perform open-heart surgery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve excelled as your plan for the best local heart care. Our mission is to restore life and make sure families, like the Hoyts, have a future full of adventures. O U R H E A R T I N S T I T U T E F E AT U R E S : s ! HIGHLY SKILLED #ARDIAC !LERT 4EAM n AVAILABLE s !N AWARD WINNING #HEST 0AIN #ENTER s 4HE (EART !TTACK 2ECEIVING #ENTER FOR THE MOST SEVERE HEART ATTACKS s !DVANCED TECHNOLOGY IN OUR ALL DIGITAL CATH LAB s #ARDIAC REHAB THROUGH 4HE 7ELLNESS #ENTER

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Lifestyles

H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S

Nature’s Food Market and Juice Bar Favorite Health Food Store

HEALTHY HABITS Try a new juice recipe or seasonal cleanse this spring By Anna C. Smith

Photos by Michael Lopez

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his is not just a philosophy. It’s based on facts, nutritional facts,” said Chuck Naus, owner of Nature’s Food Market and Juice Bar in downtown Bakersfield, as he described his passion for healthy eating. Naus and his wife, Wendy, purchased Nature’s from an overwhelmed friend who had only owned the store for about a month – this was 5 1/2 years ago. The couple hasn’t looked back since. The cheerful workers at the impeccably tidy Nature’s have been serving up juices, raw vegan prepared foods and healthy pantry staples in their new location at 2000 H St., across from the Fox Theater, for a few months now. Juicing is a particularly popular snack as the weather warms and is also a component of many fad diets, but Chuck hopes that people see it less as a trend and more as part of a healthier lifestyle. Chuck lives by the “father of medicine” Hippocrates’ mantra: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Through juicing, we get compounded amounts of micronutrients, or live enzymes, Chuck explains. These live enzymes and their alkaline properties have been

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The Reboot is made with lemon, limes, spinach, kale, celery, apple and ginger.

Owner Wendy Naus of Nature’s Food Market and Juice Bar with the store’s top three juice drinks: from left, Carrot Veggie, Reboot and E-Lemonator.

shown to help heal the body of many illnesses and ailments, including cancer. Chuck says he began his own journey to healthier living when he realized he needed to clean up his act, quit his addictions and support his new bride as he was preparing for his entrance into a married life. But his entire family began to take healthy eating seriously when his wife was diagnosed with celiac disease, an alarming autoimmune disorder where the body develops an intolerance to gluten. She has tackled her celiac head-on and feels much healthier now because of her vegan regimen. However, Chuck believes that anyone can benefit from adding raw, plant-based juices and meals to his or her diet. He said he enjoys seeing customers improve their quality of life by incorporating more fruits and vegetables, removing processed foods and making commitments to a healthy lifestyle.

Try a Seasonal Cleanse to Restart Your System As a healthy way of rebooting your system, Chuck recommends individuals complete a cleanse or detox program as many times as there are true seasons. In Bakersfield, he says that means twice per year – when the weather gets warm in the spring and again when it changes to cold in the fall. The Master Cleanse is a program that Chuck recommends. The simple program started as a book, but the easy-to-follow steps can be found online at themastercleanse.org. There are three phases to the cleanse that include: an “ease-in” period whereby one removes all processed foods; “the lemonade diet,” which calls for adherents to consume for at least 10 days a lemonadelike drink containing purified water, lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper; and an “ease-out” period, which gradually allows

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Fresh Juicing Ideas for Spring:

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A key to getting the most out of a plant-based juice is to use fresh, seasonal, organic local produce whenever possible, Chuck explains. Nature’s receives most of its fruits and vegetables from local organic producers like Hopeful Harvest and Cal-Organic. In the springtime, he recommends incorporating seasonally harvested greens like kale, celery or cucumbers. He also recommends Granny Smith apples for juicing because they are low on the glycemic index and have the most pectin, which is great for your gallbladder. Beets, good for your liver, are also typically harvested in the valley in the late spring through the summer. For a spring-appropriate smoothie, try one of the following energizing recipes: Reboot: cucumber, kale, spinach, celery, lemon, lime, green apple, and ginger • Packed with vitamins A and C, this greenhued juice has a slight bite due to the citrus and ginger, but it’s balanced out nicely with the smoothness of the cucumber, celery, and green apple. Carrot Veggie: carrot, spinach, celery, kale, and beet • Delicious and filled with lots of fiber-rich vegetables, this juice is a great source of betacarotene and potassium and is praised for its highly alkaline properties, helpful in regulating the body’s pH levels.

May 2015

The Carrot Veggie is made with celery, beets, kale, spinach and carrots.

Continued from page 69 more complex foods back into the diet. The recommended length of time for any cleanse is 21 days, the minimum amount of time needed to create a new habit and break patterns of food addiction, Chuck says. (Please note: one should consult a health professional prior to undergoing any diet or cleanse.) Juicing does not have to be part of

an expensive, fad diet celebrated by the raw-food fringe. It can simply be lunch. Chuck says that his goal is to impress upon his customers that they need to take charge of their own diet, complete their own research and incorporate healthier eating habits in whichever way feels right to them. Let’s all raise a wheatgrass shot to that. Cheers and, as the French say, “a votre sante” (to your health)!

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Lifestyles

I N M Y C LO S E T

TAMI CALDERWOOD Boutique-owning beauty has perfect head for business, feet built for high heels

Apricot Lane Boutique Best Local Clothing Boutique

By Miranda Whitworth Photos by Michael Lopez

ami Calderwood is a nononsense mom with an eye for fashion and a passion for business. If you are a southwest Bakersfield shopper or a fan the boutique experience, you may have ventured into her store, Apricot Lane. Calderwood’s life is built around clothing so it’s no surprise she takes her personal style very seriously. A person’s wardrobe is an important part of his or her life and Calderwood says there’s never a good time to ignore what you are putting on your back. “When I became a mom I made a subconscious commitment to always look my best, not use motherhood as an excuse to become sloppy,” said Calderwood. “My goal was to be showered, dressed and have my makeup on every day. I have accomplished that.” Taking care of her appearance on a daily basis is more than a personal mission;

Tami Calderwood, owner of Apricot Lane, shines with fashionable business sense. 72

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Calderwood says it’s also part of her livelihood. “It’s my responsibility as a business owner of a clothing boutique to look my best and show how you can dress and feel comfortable,” she said.

What’s the one fashion item you never leave the house without? No matter what, I am wearing a heel or a wedge. If I am wearing jeans and a shirt, a heel changes the way I feel. I automatically feel dressed up. Unless I am working out or barefoot at the beach, you’ll see me in heels.

As a boutique owner, is it challenging to shop for others? I go to market twice a year and I really keep my eyes open for what’s hitting the bigger cities and how much of that will translate well for my community. I seek out the unique, cutting-edge styles, but I also understand not everything is going to fly in Bakersfield. I take pride in really taking into consideration what works for my customers.

What’s your biggest pet peeve when it comes to fashion trends?

What do you recommend for busy moms who need versatility? I think you can wear any dress any day; there is no such thing as being too dressed up. You can balance something that’s a little dressier with a denim jacket during the day and then change your accessories and lip for a look that works just as well at night. You may be wearing the same dress but it looks like a completely different outfit.

What accessory interests you the most?

Tami says that wearing heels changes the way she feels.

Wearing leggings the wrong way. Ladies, your shirts need to cover your rear end. If you are going to wear leggings, pair them with a shirt that’s long enough to provide coverage. Tunics were made for this and there are so many beautiful options, there is no reason why you can’t cover adequately.

A denim jacket can give a dressier outfit a whole different look.

Hats! I wear a lot of different hats, from fedoras, to driver caps to baseball caps. A hat can change the way a basic outfit looks or give dimension to your overall style that day.

What is the biggest mistake women make when it comes to fashion? Do not worry about the size on a tag – wear what fits you. No one else knows what that tag says. It is more important to feel good and look good than to worry about a number. I try on every single piece that comes in my store and I will tell my customers whether they need to size up, size down or if the piece is true to size. Every brand fits a little differently, please don’t caught up on the number.

Tami is a big believer in the versatility of denim.

Everyone? No matter how amazing that rear end may be? Yes, this goes for everyone. Many leggings have a problem with sheerness and then you have to deal with visibility issues. If you are in a tunic, you have nothing to worry about. When spandex was big in the ’90s, there was a rule about balance. If you wear spandex on top, then you need to wear something loose on the bottom. If you wear spandex on the bottom, then you wear something loose on top. Why didn’t this rule carry over?

No closet is complete without what essential piece? Denim – lots of denim. Jeans are so great, because they work for so many different occasions. Casual denim with distressing or a lighter wash is great for everyday wear. Dressier denim is perfect for evening or more formal settings. Denim is so versatile, so comfortable and can be anything you need it to be.

Hats and accessories in Tami Calderwood’s closet. bakersfieldlife.com

Lifestyles

FIT AND FRESH

CHANGE UP THE ORDINARY New trails, new accessories, new recipes, new you

The golden bluffs loom above the Panorama Vista Preserve.

By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann

Photos by Sally Baker

ust like the season, it’s time to change up your running routine. A run and costume contest puts the emphasis on fun at the Building Bridges 5K Fun Run at CALM. Temperatures are also rising, so it’s important to stay cool and hydrated. A 32-ounce leak-proof drink bottle will help you quench your thirst on even the hottest of days. Ice cream is a popular way to beat the heat, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing healthy eating. Vegan ice cream is something vegans, carnivores, ice cream lovers and health nuts will all enjoy!

The Panorama Vista Preserve is home to a wide variety of trees, plants and wildlife.

Get out and run! May 23, 8 a.m. – Building Bridges 5K Fun Run

For something fun and a little different, drive out to CALM for this special event. There will be music and a costume contest for runners, all happening at one of my favorite running locations, around the California Living Museum and 74

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along the banks of the beautiful Kern River. For more information, visit bakersfieldtrackclub.com where you will also find the link to ultrasignup.com to register. Preregistration is $25 until May 21; $30 before day of race; $35 day-of. Registration is from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. Packet pickup at Action Sports

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Nathan BigShot 32-ounce BPA-free, leak-proof drink bottle. Here’s an awesome habit to adopt. Fill your bottle up each morning with 32 ounces of cold water and help save our landfills from millions of plastic disposable bottles. Always having your bottle with you will help keep you hydrated during our Bakersfield summer. Take it to the gym, the grocery store and everywhere you go. Don’t leave home without it! Find it at Sole 2 Soul, T.J. Maxx or Marshalls; $7.99-$14.99.

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May 22 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Best new trail Panorama Vista Preserve

Anxious to venture out onto the new PVP trails, Katie and I drove to the trailhead, which begins at the end of a pothole-filled road at the end of East Roberts Lane. Take a second to check out the information center, noting the trail map, then step onto the well-cleared trails heading east. The golden bluffs loom above you to your right under which runs the Kern River and the Beardsley Canal. Mature trees, shrubs and vines exist next to newly planted cottonwood, sycamore, buttonwillow, valley oak and willow seedlings. Animal tracks are clearly visible in the dirt – coyote, raccoons, squirrels, bobcats and rabbits call the preserve home. Native birds to watch for include California quail, acorn woodpecker, roadrunner, the western scrub-jay and my favorite, the black phoebe. As part of the Kern River Corridor Endowment, the PVP exists solely through grants, cash donations and volunteer help. If you

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Vegan Ice Cream As our Bakersfield sun shines higher and brighter in the sky and our temperature rises, so does our craving for sweet frozen treats. Fear not! We have found quite simply the easiest and most satisfying answer to your sweet dreams: vegan ice cream. You will be surprised by how incredibly delicious this recipe is. Here’s how to make it:

The Panorama Vista Preserve is a new trail area lined with trees, shrubs and vines, such as cottonwood, sycamore, buttonwillow, valley oak and willow seedlings.

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Annual Event

May 2015

Family Recreational Entertainment Place

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would like to donate, please send your tax-deductible donation to: Panorama Vista Preserve 5025 Panorama Drive Bakersfield, CA 93306 Make checks payable to Panorama Vista Preserve or to Kern River Corridor Endowment. For more information call 872-3569.

• Chop three to four bananas • Freeze bananas • Place frozen banana pieces into your Vitamix, blender or food processor • Blend until smooth and the texture of soft serve ice cream • If your mixture is too coarse and not creaming up, add a few drizzles of water. If your mixture is to runny and not frozen enough, spoon entire contents into a serving bowl and place in the freezer for 10 minutes. • Serve immediately, enjoy and you can thank us later • Variations: For peanut butter ice cream, add a frozen tablespoon of your favorite peanut butter. If chocolate is your wish, add a frozen tablespoon of Nutella. Add frozen berries, peaches or fruit of your choice to make a dreamy fruity frozen treat.

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Lifestyles

PA S T I M E S

WHILE THE FISH ARE BITING Local fly fishers gear up for favorable fishing season ahead By Diana Greenlee

Photos by Casey Christie

alking into a meeting of the Kern Fly Fishers during a flytying session, you might think you’ve made a wrong turn, ending up in some newfangled sewing class. Trays with spindles holding bobbins of thread, wire and fishing line; compartments with fur, feathers and hooks greet members at tying stations. The goal is to create critter-like lures that mimic native insects to fool hungry fish. Don Hardcastle said the skill takes meticulous attention to detail. He said fly fishermen research insects that are hatching in the waters and create flies accordingly. It takes expertise. Today, they’re working on mayflies. “Mayflies look like little sail boats,” he said demonstrating with his hands. “They pump — Don Hardcastle their wings and float down the river to take off.” With a lifetime of fly-fishing under his belt, former Kern Fly Fishers club President Hardcastle, 64, participates in the club’s mentoring sessions. He also volunteers at Kern River Fly Fishing in Kernville helping folks get their feet wet. The angler said fly-fishing is a draw for people who are bored with watching a float bob in the water.

“

The bottom line is fly-fishing is more challenging (than spinner fishing). You’re actively participating at all times.

”

Continued on page 81 Guy Jeans has been fly-fishing in the Kern River for many years now and owns and operates the Kern River Fly Shop in Kernville.

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The Kern River Fly Shop is open for business and looking forward to a good fishing season.

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Guy Jeans shows off two dry flies in his shop in Kernville.

Continued from page 78 “The bottom line is fly-fishing is more challenging (than spinner fishing),” he said. “You’re actively participating at all times.” Owner of Kern River Fly Fishing Guy Jeans agrees with Hardcastle. A certified casting instructor, he says the Kern River boasts year-round fishing, and it lures visitors from all over the world eager to catch the California state fish, the golden trout. “It’s the most beautiful trout in the world,” he said. Hailing from Ventura, Jeans, 48, offers instruction in surf-fishing at

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(661) 631-2036 2029 21st Street • Bakersfield, CA 93301

Established by Jeanne Schamblin in 1990 • Serving Bakersfield for over 21 years.

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Continued from page 81 the coast. He says once folks try fly-fishing, they’re hooked. “I’m really good at getting people addicted (to fishing),” he said. Fly-fishing isn’t a boys’ club. Like many local fly fishers, petite Amy Kileen is passionate about the sport. As a child she spent time fishing with her dad along the Nevada-California border as well as the Truckee River and others. But today the seasoned fisherwoman is standing at River Walk wearing full gear. She doesn’t carry a tackle box – fly fishers travel light. They wear lanyards with rolls of line called “tippet.” She says a hat and polarized sunglasses are necessities, as is a foldable staff to help anchor her into the water, establishing three points of contact with the ground for stability. And a life vest is a good idea. According to Kileen, 64, the key to fishing success lies in the flies, but also in picking the right spot. Her advice: Follow the insects because the fish sure do. “Watch for the bugs to punch through the surface tension of the water,” she said. “If you see a bunch of bugs – that would be a hatch.”

Guy Jeans, owner of the Kern River Fly Shop in Kernville, tries to spend time on the Kern River fly-fishing.

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PA S T I M E S

Trout in the Classroom coordinator Rich Arner lectures to the Granite Pointe Elementary math and science club at the Kern River in Hart Park.

GET SCHOOLED BY THE FISHES Students participate in Trout in the Classroom program, puts standards into practice Story and photos by Diana Greenlee

en-year-old Betty Salgado, a fifth grader at Granite Pointe Elementary School, may be a novice at fishing. But on a bright and sunny Friday morning in Hart Park, under Trout in the Classroom coordinator Rich Arner’s expert tutelage, she was casting like a pro – the line snapping at the end of the rod, gliding above her head. Salgado is a member of Granite Elementary School teacher Linda Mahan’s math and science club. The group is participating in the Trout in the Classroom program, afford84

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ing them an opportunity to dig into standards-based life science curriculum, while raising and releasing baby trout known as “trout fry.” Students also learn about fishing and making flies. Arner’s been a coordinator for a decade; he said the program is a popular collaborative effort between the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, schools and the community. “Typically there’s close to 1,000 students each year that come out and release trout fry that they’ve actually raised in their classrooms,” he said. “They get a chance to learn about trout biology, behavior, the aquatic insects that trout target.” Cheryl Moxley, Department of Fish and Wildlife interpreter, said they provide rainbow trout eggs that come from the state hatchery and teacher training for free. The focus is on education and awareness, and the outcomes are undeniable. “They (students) look at things with new eyes; conservation, littering, preserving our waterways,” she said. “Taking a hands-on approach, they remember it well.” Arner, 56, an avid fly fisherman, said the benefits of the program are two-fold. In addition to replenishing the fish population, they’re also providing awareness and encourag-

Granite Pointe Elementary School math and science club along with teacher Linda Mahan and Trout in the Classroom coordinator Rich Arner at Hart Park.

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ing natural resource protection and conservation. He says schools manage an average of 50 percent survival for the tiny trout fry, which measure around an inch long. These coddled quarries stand a better chance than their native-born brethren. “In the natural environment maybe only one out of 100 get that big because of predators, water quality; there’s not enough food in the river,” said Arner. “We emphasize some of the things that they (students) are controlling, especially water use.” Although California Department of Fish and Wildlife donates the rainbow trout eggs, teachers must wrangle funding for additional supplies, such as chillers that keep the eggs viable. Arner said some teachers have received funding through companies that offer grants for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). It can get expensive. “It can be $400 or $500 up to $1,500 for the best setup,” he said. Mahan said Granite Pointe Elementary purchased her chiller this year, so she’s ready for next time. She says there’s a lot of interest in the program. “There are 50 kids (in the club); I was supposed to keep it at 35,” she said. “But when 50 kids hand you their permission slips, how can you turn them away when they want to be here for math and science?”

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A 6-week-old trout fry minutes before its release.

St. Francis Church would like to thank Kern County for their 11th year of being nominated for the “Best Place to Worship” Category.

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HOME AND GARDEN

TREATING WARM WEATHER INSECTS Keeping your home and garden insect free during the summer By Metro Creative

omeowners know that the arrival of spring also marks the re-emergence of insects. While not every insect is harmful, if an infestation grows considerably or if insects begin to move from the outdoors into a home, it may be time for homeowners to call in a professional. The Entomological Society of America points out that homeowners cannot count on bitterly cold winters to help control the numbers of insects in their yards. Insect ecology is affected by various factors and is not solely dependent on temperature. Furthermore, what occurred one year certainly may not be repeated the next, as homeowners who have had various insect infestations in their yards can attest. One year a yard may be overcome with ants, while the next year it may suffer through an earwig infestation. The first step homeowners looking to curtail insects in their yards can take is to determine if the insects they see are genuine threats to their lawns. Some bugs emerge and swarm early in the season, but then gradually disappear as spring turns into summer. Other insects may come out of hiding if a homeowner is doing a lot of yard work or construction around a house. Practice a wait-and-see approach to determine if you really have an insect problem or just have stirred up activity. Homeowners also must decide if it is bearable living with the insects. If insects are not doing any damage or if they can be controlled relatively easily, then you might be able to avoid calling in the professionals. However, if critters like termites and certain species of wood-eating insects are invasive and damaging your yard, you may need to take action. Anyone concerned with the side effects of pesticides and insecticides can first try to remedy the problem naturally. Sometimes 86

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it's just a matter of making a yard less hospitable to insects. Remove leaves and clean up debris close to the house, as these can both encourage infestations. Piles of rotting wood or leftover firewood can be a food or shelter source for a number of insects. Inspect water spigots for leaks and improve suspect drainage on your property, as these things can be welcoming to bugs that like moist surroundings. Remove standing water whenever possible to eliminate spots for mosquitoes to incubate larvae. Natural remedies also may do the trick. Mint, bay leaves, catnip, and garlic can repel insects like roaches and ants. Citrus can be a

Marigolds

Thai lemon grass

natural flea deterrent. Some homeowners have had success planting marigolds around their yards to serve as a natural bug repellent because the flowers produce a scent that many insects find repulsive. Thai lemon grass plants also can be used to keep mosquitoes at bay. Remember, natural predators, such as birds, bats, spiders, and larger insects, feed on nuisance bugs. Keeping these helpful predators around may be an effective and natural way for homeowners to control annoying pests. If an insect problem seems out of control or if you need a professional opinion about the damage being done to your home or landscape, consult with an exterminator. Licensed exterminators have the training and expertise to assess insect concerns and create a plan of action that will minimize the risk to inhabitants of your home and nearby wildlife. An exterminator will know what it takes to treat insects and maximize the chances of removing the problem promptly and effectively. Warm weather is synonymous with many things, including the return of insects. Homeowners may be able to treat unruly bugs on their own, but especially problematic infestations may require the help of experienced exterminators.

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HOME AND GARDEN

TILING TIME: EIGHT TIPS TO DO IT YOURSELF Stockdale Tile offers tips to make your tiling project shine

Stockdale Tile Favorite Flooring/ Carpet/Tile Store

By Diana Greenlee

f changing a light bulb is your idea of a do-it-yourself project, the thought of installing tile might seem intimidating. Stockdale Tile President and CEO Tony Marion says folks can save $4 to $6 per square foot by going it alone, but you have to know your limits. “We discourage some cases, like walk-in stall showers,” he said. “But floors we highly recommend. And we can help them with the layout.” The path to success goes step by step, and Marion offers the following suggestions for folks interested in creating custom improvements they can call their own. 1) Remove existing baseboards and inspect the floor surface for cracks. Apply fracture membrane to correct imperfections, protecting tiles from shifting and cracking. 2) Tile may be installed directly onto cement slabs, but wooden floors require a quarter-inch HardieBacker board to reinforce the floor and lower deflection, helping to prevent cracks.

A notched trowel is used to apply thinset to the bottom of each tile. 88

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Installing floor tile yourself is hard work, so be sure to seek advice from experts.

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3) Lay tile out onto the floor using spacers to create gaps, starting in a corner. You can

purchase spacers that don’t need to be removed after installation or self-leveling spacers to avoid lippage. Oddsized areas may require tiles cut to fit. Tile cutters may be purchased for around $60, although Marion says folks can rent tile saws for about $50 per day. 4) Mix thinset to pancake batter consistency and comb onto backs of tiles with a notch trowel. Tackle a small area at a time, working your way out of the room. Keep tiles straight as you go, double-check with straight edges and chalk lines.

Grout is forced into the gaps by holding the rubber grout float at a 45-degree angle.

5) Tiles must set for 24 hours before they are disturbed and spacers removed. Clean and vacuum joints to prepare for grout. 6) Mix grout to pancake batter consistency and apply using a rubber grout float swiping across the tile at a 45-degree angle to fill the joints. Set 10 minutes and then scrape off excess. Use a wet sponge on the area and make sure grout is even or a fraction below the tile. 7) Wash tile again to remove film. Make a final pass over the project with a cheesecloth and lemon oil to remove excess film and set project for 24 hours. Marion said grouting is a messy job, but “most do-it-yourselfers get good at it by the end.” 8) Wait 10 days to cure grout and apply an acrylic-based seal-

A wet sponge smooths and cleans off excess grout to just below the tile surface.

er to repel stains, especially for light-colored grout. Stone floors require sealer over the whole tile to protect, enhance color and produce shine. Tiling is hard work, with boxes weighing around 65 pounds. The trade-off is a stylish, low-maintenance floor. Marion says a damp or shaggy dust mop will keep your new floor in showroom shape. An ounce of prevention is worth many dollars of cure. Contractors charge a minimum of $2 per foot to demolish blunders. But the CEO said Stockdale Tile has the time and patience to walk folks through the do-it-yourself process. Is it worth it? “If you’re doing a thousand square feet and saving $4,000,” he said. “That’s a chunk of change.”

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HOME AND GARDEN

LESS WATER, MORE GROWTH

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Low-water garden plants an option in drought-heavy areas

Butterfly bush is drought-tolerant and, as the name implies, attracts plenty of butterflies.

By Metro Creative

oping with drought is a way of life for many people across North America. The National Climatic Data Center, a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, works cooperatively with Canada and Mexico to monitor climate and drought conditions across the continent. According to the NOAA, the globally-averaged temperature for 2013 tied as the fourth warmest year since 1880, when record-keeping began. 2013 also marked the 37th consecutive year with a global temperature above the 20th century average. Warm temperatures, when paired with below-average precipitation, can quickly escalate and cause drought, making things difficult for those who make their livelihood by working the land or even just weekend gardeners. Low-water garden plants are a smart choice for those who live in areas that often deal with drought. These resilient plants can keep gardens looking lush and beautiful regardless of water restrictions. In fact, low-water gardening has become a popular trend among eco-conscious gardeners and even is a cost-saving measure for homeowners. Establishing a garden of drought-tolerant plants requires knowledge of hardiness zones and which plants will thrive in certain areas. Native plants, in general, will be more tolerant to fluctuations in weather than plants that are imported. Contact a garden center and speak with someone knowledgeable 90

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May 2015

White sage requires very little water and adds a nice light-colored accent to any garden. about plants that will do well in low-water conditions. In addition, choose plants that have a reputation for drought resistance. Butterfly bush is very hardy and requires little water. Although it is considered an invasive plant in some areas, gardeners who keep on top of seedlings and off-shoots can keep the plant in control. This shrub will create an enormous amount of flowers that will appear in the spring and will con-

tinue to bloom throughout the summer. The butterfly bush also attracts scores of butterflies to a landscape. Pink evening primrose is full of delicate, pink flowers that spread on runners. It prefers dry soils, and even though it can thrive when soil quality is poor, it cannot tolerate soil that is too wet. It can grow in USDA zones five to nine. A variety of sage plants, including white sage, black sage and Cleveland sage, are drought-tolerant and do well in climates like Southern California's. These plants produce blooms that attract insects and birds alike. Gardeners who would like relatively low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants can opt for succulents. Succulents, which include aloe, cacti and jade, are characterized by thick, fleshy water-storage organs. Succulents prefer bright light and can thrive in south-facing conditions. It's good to concentrate the most amount of watering for succulents during the spring growing season. Keep soil welldrained to avoid damage to shallow roots. Heed landscape conditions when selecting plants for the garden. Drought-tolerant plants are a good idea in those regions where weather is naturally arid or if homeowners prefer plants that can grow regardless of seasonal water restrictions.

Pink evening primrose thrives in dry, poor-quality soil.

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T

MENUDO TIME 17th annual Menudo Cook-Off, Latino cultural festival returns By Angel Carreras

Photos by Henry A. Barrios

akersfield’s annual signature event that combines menudo, a Latino cultural festival and a live outdoor concert will return May 31. Under sunny spring temperatures, thousands turn out for the outdoor activities, fun and, of course, the mouth-watering menudo at the annual Latino Food Festival and Menudo Cook-Off, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Kern County Fairgrounds. This year marks the event’s 17th anniversary, and organizers say it’s an event for families, adults and those looking to enjoy the Latino cultural experience of food, particularly menudo, music, dance, children’s activities and more. “The event is a wonderful family event and people of all ages and ethnicities attend,” said Jay Tamsi, Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce president and CEO. “This year, we’ve diversified the entertainment so that all generations will be entertained. “By doing so, we believe it supports the richness of our culture and the tradition of many cultures, which surround the kitchen and those in the kitchen making the magic happen.” Tamsi was referring to a big part of the event, which is winning the top prizes for having the best menudo. The bragging rights and trophies have drawn competitors from throughout the state and across to earn the top spot. Some of the participants are returning contestants while newbies have joined the race to be the No. 1 menudo connoisseur around. If you think your menudo can make the cut to be called Bakersfield’s best, Tamsi suggests you do so quickly. Spots are slim and competition is fierce. With only 70 entries for the con92

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Alfredo Marron III stirs the pot frequently in the four- to five-hour process of cooking menudo at last year’s Menudo Cook-Off at the Kern County Fairgrounds.

May 2015

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Live music at the 16th annual Menudo Cook-Off at the Kern County Fairgrounds kept the crowds dancing and having fun.

test, anyone interested needs to make sure they get their entry in early so their award-winning recipe isn’t left out. “Contestants take their menudo extremely seriously; some contestants [keep] their ingredients under lock and key,” Tamsi said. “It’s a competitive, pretty serious competition.” The menudo dishes are reviewed by a group of celebrity judges that have included journalists, lawyers, judges, restaurant owners, public officials and community leaders. Aside from the menudo, another highlight will be the live entertainment, which includes the legendary funk band, War, Hindsite, Mento Buru, Making Movies, Mariachi San Marcos and Ballet Folklorico Huaztecalli. Some of these bands are likely to bring out attendees to the dancefloor, but Tamsi added that there will be other activities to keep people entertainment. That includes fun activities for children, the jalapeño eating contest and plenty of food vendors serving food such as tacos, tamales, ceviche, baconwrapped hot dogs, pizza, corn on the cob, fruit bowls, etc. Yet another important part of

the event will be the chance to connect with the local business sector. Tamsi noted there will be a variety of local businesses networking with consumers and sharing information about their programs and services. While the event is meant to highlight the Latino cultural flare, Tamsi noted that money raised from the event goes toward an important cause. “The Menudo Cook-Off is the chamber’s largest fundraiser of the year,” said Tamsi. “KCHCC is a nonprofit organization so we rely solely on fundraisers, sponsors and grants to support our mission in creating, promoting and enhancing business opportunities for our membership. “The Menudo Cook-Off has become a family tradition for many Hispanics and non-Hispanic residents throughout Kern County. The event continues to grow through the efforts of many small businesses, corporations, community groups and many families. It’s awesome to see this event grow each year, families coming together and supporting the chamber.” For more information about the event or tickets, visit kchcc.org or call 633-5495.

Congratulations on your 2015 B e s t o f B a k e r s f i e l d Aw a r d ! We now offer modern commemorative plaques to preserve and display your 2015 Best of Bakersfield Award. Our plaques are glass-free with a satin matte UV laminate finish to protect your special moment for years to come.

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TRIP PLANNER

GRAND CANYONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SOUTH RIM Take time to take in this geological gem

The national park has established viewpoints all along the South Rim of the canyon that offer spectacular views.

Bakersfield Life Magazine

May 2015

By Katelynn Camp

Photos courtesy of the Camp family

ou can do the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in a day (if you arrive the night before), but a warning: It’s torture pulling yourself away that quickly. My family and I only had 12 hours in the park, but could have stayed two or three days. For those with a limited timeframe like us, here’s how to see the canyon’s best side quickly. Where to stay: We stayed in Williams, a little town known as "The Gateway to the Grand Canyon," and about 65 miles outside of the park off of historic Route 66. Established in 1881, it holds a quaint, early America charm. We spent the evening walking the downtown shops, and found a gem: The Gallery in Williams in downtown is full of beautiful handcrafted pieces by local artists. You can also stay directly outside of the park in Grand Canyon Village, or inside the park at one of the lodges. Be sure to reserve a room or cabin months in advance; they are popular. When to go: March was perfect – it was in the

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March is the perfect time to visit the Grand Canyon. bakersfieldlife.com

Continued from page 95 60s the entire day with clear skies. It gets busy around spring break and you have to make sure it isn’t snowing, but winter/spring remain relatively guest-free. Entrance and souvenirs: Directly before entering the canyon is the National Geographic Visitor Center and Imax Theater. This is where you can grab a pass to enter the park (passes cost $25) and sign-up for a pink Jeep tour of the canyon. It’s also a great place to pick up a few souvenirs and watch an Imax presentation on the canyon. We found the best souvenirs in the Grand Canyon’s gift shop in Bright Angel Lodge. The shirts and jackets are made with quality material that most outdoor adventurers would pay a lot more for at an outdoor retailer. At the same time, remember that your best souvenirs will be the photos you take, so bring along a great camera to capture the canyon’s beauty. Where to stop first: For your first view of the canyon, drive through the national park entrance to the Visitor Center. Directly in front of the parking area is a short path to the rim. Be prepared for a view that will take your breath away. From there, walk to the Visi-

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The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hikes on the South Rim.

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Winter and spring are great times to visit the canyon, as long as snow is not in the forecast.

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Continued from page 96 tor Center to check out the hikes, history of the canyon and rent bikes if you’d like. You can take the shuttle to the Village Center from here, where you will find trailheads, lodges, gift shops and restaurants. Hiking: There are several trails to hike on the South Rim. Even if you are only there for a day, take a short hike into the canyon. (CAUTION: Do not hike from top to bottom and back in a day. You are asking for heat stroke, nausea, vomiting and possible broken limbs due to dizziness.) The Grand Canyon Visitor Center lists the hikes and current conditions, so stop there before venturing down. The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular paths to hike. A good rule of thumb to remember is for every hour you descend hiking, plan for two hours of ascent. The Bright Angel Trail offers a 1.5-mile hike to the first rest stop (2.5 to four hours round trip), or a 3-mile hike to the second watering hole (four to six hours round trip). The views on this hike are priceless. You will walk past sheer cliffs, smoothed by years of rain and rock slides. The clay is rich red and the canyon stretches out before you in all its majesty. You’ll feel part of the landscape when passing under arches of striated shale rock. Other hikes available are Hoppi trail or the South Kaibab trail (no water available on this hike,

so bring plenty). We had to turn back a lot earlier than we wanted because it had snowed the weekend before and had turned into an icy, muddy mess. So pack crampons and trekking poles if you’re hiking in winter/spring. Vistas: The best way to see the canyon is to stop at the park’s various vista points. The stops from Village Center to Hermit’s Rest offer beautiful views and surprises, including unique rock formations and the Colorado River. The viewpoints are an average of .5 miles apart, so you can walk or take the shuttle. The shuttle passes each point about every 10 minutes. We hiked the rim between a few of the viewpoints and were rewarded with sightings of female elk directly off the path. Sunset: Really, any view of the canyon is spectacular at sunset. Watching the shadows overtake the tips of the red rock formations will take your breath away; however, Mohave Point provides quite the show. On one side of the outcropping, you can watch the sunset (in the spring), and on the other, the canyon turns different hues as the sun lowers. Bring a coat. The temperature drops significantly as the sun says goodnight. Yes, you can do the Grand Canyon in 12 hours, but if you can, plan for two or three days to see this spectacular landmark and national park.

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EAT & DRINK

Sequoia Sandwich Company in downtown Bakersfield serves between 300 to 500 sandwiches a day.

Celebrating the

Best of Bakersfield The wait is over. The coveted annual competition that pits the best against the best has closed, and Bakersfield Life can officially – and proudly – announce the winners in the 2015 Best Of Readers’ Choice Poll.

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Nearly 100 categories were listed in the contest, and readers from The Bakersfield Californian and Bakersfield Life jumped at the opportunity to nominate their favorite and best choices — everything you can imagine — then vote on them in another period.

With the final results, we categorized them in these areas: Food & Drink; Shop; Go; Do; At Your Service; and Mind, Body and Spirit. Check out what made our list this year. Welcome new faces and give a deserving nod to returning winners.

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

Sequoia Sandwich Best Deli/ Sandwich Shop

Sequoia’s tomato basil mozzarella panini vegetarian sandwich

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

hey’re the sandwiches that you can’t get enough of because the premium deli meats and cheeses made exclusively for its sandwiches are like none other. Sequoia Sandwich Company has been serving the community since 1999 and has three locations in Bakersfield. Sequoia Sandwich As Gary Blackburn, coCompany owner, puts it, having a cus1231 18th St. tomer leave satisfied is the 661-323-2500 ultimate goal of the deli. 9500 Ming Ave. “All of our meats are 661-665-9990 sliced every morning and 9160 Rosedale Highway everything is made from 661-587-1600 scratch,” he said. www.sequoiasandwich.com And it seems customers can’t get enough of the roast turkey breast – on squaw bread with mayo, avocado, lettuce, tomato and baby Swiss.

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PHOTO BY GREG NICHOLS

La Costa Mariscos Best Mexican Restaurant Best Seafood Restaurant

Carne asada at La Costa Mariscos 102

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hen you walk into La Costa Mariscos, it’s impossible not to feel like you’ve stepped into a vacation getaway where the smell of Mexican food wafts through the air. For nearly 24 years, the restaurant La Costa Mariscos has continued to focus Bakersfield on traditional Puerto 3401 Chester Ave. Vallarta cuisine, which 661-322-2655 focuses on the daily www.facebook.com/ catch of the day. lacostamariscosbakersfield Alex Joya, general manager, said the shrimp cocktail is the most requested item on the menu along with the spicy mango habanero margarita. Besides its mouth-watering dishes, Joya said the restaurant focuses on that one-on-one personal relationship with each customer. “We treat everyone that walks through our doors like family and it’s that personal touch that sets us apart,” Joya noted.

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Lengthwise Brewing Company Best Bar Best Microbrew Selection

The lunchtime crowd dines under a ceiling of classic motorcycles at Lengthwise Brewing Company at 6720 Schirra Court.

Starved (for attention) Burger at the Lengthwise Brewing Company, shown with the Zeus Imperial Ale.

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hether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the mood for handcrafted beer or canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to Lengthwise munch on Brewing some hot Company wings the Lengthwise 6720 Schirra Court way, the choices are endless. 661-836-25372900 Calloway Drive With three locations 661-589-7394 in Bakersfield, Lengthwise Brewing Company 9000 Ming Ave., T-1 is the place to hang out 661-665-2537 after a long day at work. www.lengthwise.com Lengthwise Brewery

PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO

Eat & Drink winners

opened its doors in 1998 and is the only brewery/restaurant in Bakersfield, according to Jeff Williams, president of Lengthwise. Not sure what to order off the menu? Williams shared a few of the top-selling dishes and drinks. To munch on: an order of “stinky” fries – garlic fries with melted gooey gorgonzola or “stinky” mac ’n’ cheese – homemade mac ’n’ cheese topped with gorgonzola and bacon. To drink: the Zeus Imperial Ale or Cyber Beer Bully Ale.

Best Bar

Best Lunch Spot

Winner Lengthwise Brewing Company Favorite The Padre Hotel Favorite BJ’s Restaurant

Winner Luigi’s Favorite Juicy Burger Favorite Sequoia Sandwich Company

Best Business Lunch

Best Margarita

Winner Luigi’s Favorite Uricchio’s Trattoria Favorite Cafe Med Restaurant & Deli

Winner Mexicali Favorite Red Pepper Favorite Don Perico Mexican Grill & Bar

Best Bakery

Best Mexican Restaurant

Winner Smith’s Bakeries Favorite Sweet Surrender Favorite Sugar Twist Bakery

Winner La Costa Mariscos Favorite Mexicali Favorite Mesa Mexican Grill

Best Basque Restaurant

Best Microbrew Selection

Winner Wool Growers Restaurant Favorite Benji’s French Basque Restaurant Favorite Noriega Restaurant & Hotel

Winner Lengthwise Brewing Co. Favorite BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Favorite Eureka! Burger

Best BBQ Restaurant

Best New Restaurant

Winner Salty’s BBQ & Catering Favorite Jake’s Tex-Mex Cafe Favorite Famous Dave’s

Winner Mesa Mexican Grill Favorite Boss Pizza Favorite Lucille’s Smokehouse and BBQ

Best Breakfast Restaurant

Best Overall Restaurant

Winner 24th Street Cafe Favorite Village Grill Favorite Cope’s Knotty Pine Cafe

Winner Wool Growers Restaurant Favorite Tahoe Joe’s Famous Steakhouse Favorite Uricchio’s Trattoria

Best Buffet

Best Pizza Spot

Winner Hodel’s Country Dining Favorite Don Perico Mexican Bar & Grill Favorite Zaika Indian Cuisine & Bar

Winner Tony’s Pizza Favorite Rusty’s Pizza Parlor Favorite Cataldo’s Pizzeria

Best Burger Place

Best Romantic Restaurant

Winner In-N-Out Favorite Juicy Burger Favorite Eureka! Burger

Winner The Mark Favorite Uricchio’s Trattoria Favorite Belvedere Room at The Padre

Best Chinese Restaurant

Best Salsa

Winner Bill Lee’s Bamboo Chopsticks Favorite Great Castle Chinese Restaurant Favorite P.F Chang’s

Winner Mexicali Favorite La Costa Mariscos Favorite El Jacalito Grill

Best Coffee Place

Best Seafood Restaurant

Winner Starbucks Coffee Company Favorite Dagny’s Coffee Company Favorite Covenant Coffee

Winner La Costa Mariscos Favorite Red Lobster Favorite Kan Pai

Best Deli/Sandwich Shop

Best Steak Restaurant

Winner Sequoia Sandwich Company Favorite Caesar’s Italian Delicatessen Favorite Too Fat Sandwiches

Winner Tahoe Joe’s Famous Steakhouse Favorite KC Steakhouse Favorite Steak & Grape

Best Drive-Thru

Best Sunday Brunch

Winner In-N-Out Favorite Dewar’s Favorite Country Boy

Winner Buck Owens Crystal Palace Favorite Hodel’s Country Dining Favorite Village Grill

Best Food Truck/Cart

Best Sushi/Japanese Restaurant

Winner La Rosa Fruit Bar’s and Ice Cream Favorite El Taco Loco Favorite Quig’s BBQ

Winner Akira Japanese Restaurant Favorite Tokyo Garden Favorite Kan Pai

Best Happy Hour

Best Thai Food

Winner Tahoe Joe’s Famous Steakhouse Favorite The Padre Favorite Mexicali

Winner Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar Favorite Blue Elephant Favorite Thai House

Best Italian Food Restaurant

Best Yogurt Shop

Winner Uricchio’s Trattoria Favorite Luigi’s Favorite Frugatti’s

Winner Tutti Frutti Favorite Yogurtland Favorite Yogurt Zone

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Mesa Mexican Grill Best New Restaurant

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Mesa Grill’s nachos topped with pico de gallo, sour cream, lettuce, mushrooms and avocado

Thanks For Your Confidence

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ou can’t have a good meal without fresh ingredients and bold flavors. At Mesa Mexican Grill, they have done just that. Located in northeast Bakersfield, the restaurant is all about flavors and homemade food. Mesa has six different dishes to choose from, including the most popular item on the menu, a quesarito – a burrito wrapped in a quesadilla. Mesa Mexican Justin Smith, restaurant Grill vice president, said the que2509 Mt. Vernon Ave. sarito is a unique dish that 661-871-6700 can’t go wrong because “of www.mesamexicanthe added layer of delicious grill.com cheese.” Once a customer picks his or her dish, they then add a protein, filling, toppings and sauces. All salsas are homemade and prepared at Mesa. Guacamole is made three times a day to keep up with the demand, Smith added.

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

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Christopher Berry, DC Doctor of Chiropractic 661-410-WELL (9355)

8501 Brimhall Rd., #300 Bakersfield, CA 93312 ChiropractorBakersfield.com

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MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

Providing excellent eye care is the goal for Dr. Gregory A. Stainer and his team.

r. Gregory A. Stainer has been providing Bakersfield the gift of sight for over 30 years with his excellent surgical experience. As an ophthalmologist, Stainer is a certified Lasik Eye Surgeon at the Southwest Eye Care and Laser. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a wonderful surgeon, a great doctor and he has always really cared for his patients,â&#x20AC;? Lisa Sherrill, a refractive surgery coordinator at Southwest Eye Care and Laser, said. Stainer and his team provide Bakersfield with quality eye care.

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Dr. Gregory Stainer Best Ophthalmologist

Purchase any Brighton necklace and bracelet and you can choose any pair of Brighton earrings* FREE! *Free earrings must be of EQUAL or LESSER VALUE to the highest priced item purchased. Limited to stock on hand. Charm jewelry excluded. Necklace & Bracelet must be purchased in the same transaction. (Prior purchases excluded.)

BAKERSFIELDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ORIGINAL BRIGHTON STORE www.shopchristines.com

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

4915 Stockdale Highway 661-834-3068 Monday - Friday 10:00am to 6:00pm Saturday 10:00am -5:00pm

Dr. Gregory Stainer of Southwest Eye Care and Laser 4649 Planz Road 661-833-4040 www.bakersfieldlasik.com

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Bakersfield Christian High School staffers accept a donation March 5 to support the school’s agriculture program.

BCHS offers students a variety of activities, including team sports.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKERSFIELD CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

Bakersfield Christian High School Best Private School

ulture, faith and well-rounded activities make Bakersfield Christian High School students one of the highest SAT performers in town with 98 percent of students moving on to college. “We believe that BCHS is special because of the culture created on our campus. A culture that attempts to create an atmosphere of academic excellence within an environment that is fun,” BCHS President Stephen Dinger said. Bakersfield The school has been a Christian High member of the communiSchool ty for over 35 years with 12775 Stockdale Highway its mission to offer “a 661-410-7000 nondenominational www.bakersfieldchristian.com ‘school of excellence’ providing biblically based education.” “We believe BCHS sets a high standard of excellence that Bakersfield as a community can be proud of,” Dinger said.

Gina Rolow of Body By Gina

PHOTO COURTESY OF GINA ROLOW

Gina Rolow Body By Gina Best Personal Trainer

elieve it or not, it’s possible to look and feel better and have fun while doing it. That’s Body By Gina’s specialty. Gina Rolow has been serving Kern County for over 25 years, offering private one-on-one sessions and semi-private training for two to eight people. It’s perfect for men, women and chilGina Rolow, Body dren who don’t By Gina Rolow like the “big-box 4000 Fruitvale Ave., Suite 10 gym scene.” 661-619-1584 Rolow’s studio www.bodybyginarolow.com is private and feels like a client’s personal home gym. Rolow also specializes in highintensity interval training in the form of Tabata classes and boot camps and offers diet and nutrition advice so clients can continue to get results outside of the gym.

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St. Francis Catholic Church Best Place to Worship

Christmas Eve mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

St. Francis Catholic Church’s Rev. Monsignor Craig Harrison was born and raised in Bakersfield.

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t. Francis of Assisi Parish of Bakersfield’s mission is to “provide a safe, welcoming environment of Catholic worship, evangelization and fellowship, living in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. The parish has grown immensely since the beginning, now serving over St. Francis of 5,000 families.” Assisi Parish Pastor Craig F. Harri900 H St. son, was born and raised in 661-327-4734 Bakersfield, has been a www.stfran.org pastor since 1987. He has spent his time at the church, working close with families who have lost children. He is the founder of St. Faustina’s Maternity Home and St. Vincent de Paul Homeless Center in his hometown of Bakersfield.

Mind, Body & Spirit winners Best Chiropractor

Best Ophthalmologist

Winner Christopher Berry at Advanced Wellness Center, Inc. Favorite Bobby Bramlett Favorite Matthew G.Tatsuno at Tatsuno Chiropractic, Inc.

Winner Gregory Stainer, MD Southwest Eye Care and Laser Favorite David B. Hair, MD - Bakersfield Eye Institute Favorite Daniel H. Chang, MD - Empire Eye & Laser Center

Best College/Higher Learning Source

Best Personal Trainer

Winner CSUB Favorite Bakersfield College Favorite Taft College

Winner Gina Rolow at Body by Gina Favorite Aaron Gillies at Pair and Marotta Favorite Eric Mahanke at Carr Elite

Best Day Care/Preschool Facility

Best Physical Therapy Group

Winner Little Red School House Favorite St. John’s Children’s Center Favorite Olive Knolls Christian School

Winner Terrio Physical Therapy & Fitness Favorite Glinn & Giordano Physical Therapy Favorite Pair & Marotta Physical Therapy

Best Dentist/Orthodontist Winner Montano & Cardall Orthodontic Specialists Favorite Dr. Michael Thurman DDS Favorite Apollonia Dental

Best Place to Worship Winner St. Francis of Assisi Parish Favorite Valley Bible Fellowship Favorite Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints

Best Doctor/General Practitioner Winner William J. Farr Sr., MD Favorite Calvin J. Kubo, MD Favorite Rajendra A. Patel, MD

Best Fitness/Health Club Winner In-Shape Health Clubs Favorite Body Xchange Sports Club Favorite Total Woman Fitness & Training Centers

Best Private School

Best Health Food Store Winner Lassen’s Natural Foods & Vitamins Favorite Cones Health Foods & Vitamins Favorite Nature’s Food Market and Juice Bar

Best Hospital Winner San Joaquin Community Hospital Favorite Mercy Southwest Hospital Favorite Bakersfield Memorial Hospital

Best Medical Group

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Winner Bakersfield Christian High School Favorite Garces Memorial High School Favorite St. John’s Lutheran School

Best Specialty Doctor Winner Ravi Patel, MD - CBCC Favorite Milan Shah, MD - Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa Favorite Christopher Hamilton, MD Southern California Orthopedic Institute

Best Veterinarian Winner Travis Thurman - Thurman Veterinary Center Favorite Julie Mischke - Coffee Road Animal Hospital & Pet Resort Favorite Mark Holland - Southwest Veterinary Hospital

For over 25 years, Ladies and Gents Bridal has been helping brides with their dream of finding the perfect gown for their special day.

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Winner Kaiser Permanente Favorite Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa Favorite Farr Medical Group, Inc.

2015

Winner Dr. Darshan Shah Favorite Dr. Vipul Dev Favorite Dr. Gordon Mitts

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Best Plastic Surgeon

Thanks for the nomination,

Bakersfield! TH

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We’ve loved serving you for the past 42 years. FAVORITE RE

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Thanks Again! 2828 Niles St. (661) 837-0270

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Hale Furey shoots out of a sand trap on the 10th hole during the U.S. Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Amateur Sectional Qualifying Tournament at Seven Oaks in July.

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The pristine green and fairways of Seven Oaks Country Club.

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even Oaks Country Club is known as one of the most spectacular country clubs in California, featuring a breathtaking 27-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Muir Graves. This golf course was made to challenge players while giving them a memorable experiSeven Oaks ence that will have Country Club them coming back for more. The coun2000 Grand Lakes Ave. try club offers servic661-664-6404 es such as golf clinics www.sevenoakscountryclub.com and personal golf instruction from professional. Players are invited to participate in tournaments that will keep them on a competitive edge. With the friendliest of service, the golf course at Seven Oaks Country Club is definitely a place to enjoy.

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NORTHEAST

CENTRAL

3615 Mt Vernon Ave. (661) 871-3556

4130 California Ave (661) 325-4717

SOUTHWEST

NORTHWEST

6417 Ming Ave (661) 396-9608

4750 Coffee Road (661) 588-4700

SHAFTER

NOW OPEN

300 Lerdo Hwy. (661) 746-9244

OUTLETS AT TEJON (661) 858-2425

www.tonyspizzabakersfield.com bakersfieldlife.com

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Holiday Lights at CALM Best Annual Event

The Holiday Lights at CALM has become a local Christmas season tradition.

The merry-go-round at CALM lights up the night.

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pending time with friends and family while gazing at amazing light displays is what The Holiday Lights at CALM is all about. The Holiday Lights at CALM have been a Christmastime tradition for the past 12 years, featuring favorite The Holiday light displays like the Winter Lights at CALM Wonderland, elephant herd, (Late November through dinosaurs and California wildlife. early January) All visitors are invited to ride 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway through Winter Wonderland on 661-872-2256 the Candy Cane Express, or hop www.calmzoo.org on the 40-foot merry-go-round that everyone loves. The display of lights is a must see event for anyone looking to have a great time.

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Kids participate in swim lessons at North of the River Park.

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Do winners Best Annual Event Winner CALM Holiday Lights Favorite The Kern County Fair Favorite Relay for Life

orth of the River is not just any recreational park district. It’s a park district that cares about the community. NOR provides a safe environment for recreational purposes for the benefit of communities on the north side of BakNorth of the River ersfield. Recreation & Park North of the District River continDistrict Office ues to grow 405 Galaxy Ave. with over 200 661-392-2000 classes/prowww.norfun.org grams offered each year for children, adults and senior citizens. No one gets left out of the fun and games at NOR. This year, NOR is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Jessica Villalpando at NOR said, “Everything that we do we do it for the community.”

Best Community Theater Winner The Gaslight Melodrama Favorite Stars Theatre Favorite The Empty Space

Best Family Recreational/Entertainment Place Winner CALM - California Living Museum Favorite Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace Favorite Rush Air Sports

Best Golf Course Winner Seven Oaks Country Club Favorite Bakersfield Country Club Favorite The Links At RiverLakes Ranch

Best Kids Sports Program Winner North of the River (NOR) Favorite AYSO Favorite American Kids Sports Center

Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests Winner Dewar’s Favorite Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace Favorite Wool Growers Restaurant

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North of the River Best Kids Sports Program

BEST CARPET/FLOORING/TILE STORE

(661) 323-5251 | 4301 Rosedale Hwy | Bakersfield, CA 93308 Lic# 802760

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Dewar’s Soda Fountain & Fine Candies Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests Best “Made in Bakersfield” Product

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Pacifica Senior Living Bakersfield offers the very best in assisted living and memory care – in a safe, comfortable and caring home-like environment, with expert assistance when you require it.

Come tour our community today, and see all that we have to offer.

3209 Brookside Dr. • 661-302-4246 www.PacificaBakersfield.com

Lic#157204130 Lic#157204131

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Thank you everyone for your nominations and votes! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you as your Local Mortgage Banker for all of your Mortgage needs! ER

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CONVENTIONAL • FHA VA • CALHFA • CHDAP HOMEPATH • HARP 2.0

ewar’s has been serving the Bakersfield community with top-notch taffy for over 100 years. However there is a lot more to Dewar’s than just taffy. Dewar’s also has the best quality dipped chocolate and ice cream. Any customer is bound to go bananas for one of Dewar’s Soda Fountain Dewar’s & Fine Candies banana Three locations across Bakersfield splits. With more than 30 www.dewarscandy.com ice cream flavors and 15 toppings, Dewar’s never disappoints. There are multiple chocolate flavors to choose from, such as chocolate roughnecks, peanut clusters, assorted chocolate creams and more. Needless to say, there is something for everyone!

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Mike George

Allyn Medeiros

Diane Barnett

NMLS#226626

NMLS#214606

NMLS#1022364

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MORTGAGE COMPANY

visit us at: www.agapemtgco.com | 661-324-2427

5001 California Ave. Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Sierra Pacific Mortgage Company, Inc. DBA Agape Mortgage. License by the Dept. of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. License #8171169 • Branch NMLS #354349 bakersfieldlife.com

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SHOP

Bakersfield Harley-Davidson features 33,000 square feet of motorcycles, parts, accessories and service center.

ou don’t have to wear a leather outfit to jump on the back of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle but in case you want the outfit, you can find it at the northwest Bakersfield shop. Scott Irvin, president of the local dealership, said there is always new and fun merchandise that doesn’t stay on the shelves for too long. But customer service is what has kept the shop going strong since 1915. “We focus on Kern County customers and we have a 122

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Bakersfield Harley-Davidson Best Motorcycle Shop

Fine Foods of Mexico and Traditional Dishes Holiday Parties Catering Full Service Bar Private Parties – Available Year Round

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Bringing a little bit of Puerto Vallarta to Bakersfield

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Salsa

strong support because it has been here for so long,” he said. Harley-Davidson also plays a big part in Bakersfield Harleythe community. From Davidson involvement in raising 35089 Merle Haggard Drive awareness with the 661-325-3644 Wounded Heroes Prowww.bakersfieldhd.com gram or Bikers Against Child Abuse, the participation in events throughout the year is unlimited. bakersfieldlife.com

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Watches, necklaces and rings

American Jewelry Company offers a wide range of breathtaking jewelry.

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American Jewelry Company Best Jewelry Store

iamonds are a girl’s best friend but so are Rolexes. Since 1898, American Jewelry Company has taken pride in offering a large selection of designer jewelry and watches in Bakersfield. Owner Carl Saenger said engagement rings are the No. 1 jewelry sold. What makes them special is the opportunity of designing the perfect ring for American Jewelry your loved Company one. 3200 21st St., Suite 500 There’s 661-325-5023 a diamond www.americanjewelry buyer’s company.com guide that allows a person to pick the color, cut, carat, clarity and weight of the ring. It’s a complete personalized experience. They also have a wide selection of bracelets, earrings, necklaces, pearls, rings, templates and watches.

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Snead’s For Men Best Men’s Apparel

Tony Congdon, left, and Ethan Aparicio rock some of Snead’s collection of casual and formal men’s attire. 126

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hopping doesn’t have to be boring nor does it have to be difficult. While the casual look will always be a chic and relaxed style, it’s a fashion faux pas to wear an outfit from the ’70s. Snead’s for Men of Bakersfield has provided top-quality men’s clothing since 1988 and is constantly scoping out new, Snead’s for Men edgier 8200 Stockdale Highway options 661-832-4270 to spice www.sneadsformen.com up the Bakersfield casual look. For co-owner Laurie Price, the Bakersfield look is either for the working man — jeans and a buttoned up long sleeve shirt — or the business suit mogul. Snead’s carries a variety of looks for a man to look his best for any occasion and has top fashion lines from Europe, including “beautiful Italian fabrics,” Price noted. And if you need any tailoring, the in-house tailor — who has been working at Snead’s for 27 years — will stitch you right on up.

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

Guarantee Shoe Center Best Shoe Store

Guarantee Shoe Center has an expansive selection of name brands.

Featuring a solid shoe collection is important to Rosco Rolnick.

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

ur feet are the most overlooked and overworked parts of our body. They take us where we want to go but we don’t think about them until they start to hurt. Nestled in downtown Bakersfield since 1953, Guarantee Shoe Center’s slogan is ensuring complete foot comfort. Third-generation owner Rosco Rolnick makes sure to bring nothing but the best for his Bakersfield customers. “The philosophy is simple: We care about our customers, our Guarantee Shoe employees and our community,” Center Rolnick said. 2101 Chester Ave. The shoe center has an expan661-325-8751 sive selection of name brand www.guarantee shoes and they can fit almost any shoecenter.com foot — small, large, wide or narrow. When asked what the hottest shoe on the market was this spring, Rolnik said it was anything Clarks. The shoe center also does custom orthotic insoles to provide better comfort and balance for any shoe.

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Shop winners Best Antique Dealer

Best Home Appliance Store

Best Mattress Store

Best Shoe Store

Winner Woolworth’s (Five & Dime Antique Mall) Favorite Mill Creek Antique Mall Favorite Farm Girls Vintage Finds

Winner Urner’s Favorite Lowe’s Favorite Sears

Winner Urner’s Z’s Please Sleep Center Favorite Mattress Land SleepFit Favorite Slagle’s Mattress Factory

Winner Guarantee Shoe Center Favorite Macy’s Favorite Famous Footwear

Best Jewelry Store Best Bike Shop Winner Snider’s Cyclery Favorite Action Sports Favorite Finish Line Bicycles

Winner American Jewelry Company Favorite Knight’s Jewelers Favorite Rogers Jewelry Co.

Best Bridal Wear

Best Local Clothing Boutique

Winner David’s Bridal Favorite Ladies & Gents Bridal Favorite Enchanted Bridal Boutique

Winner Apricot Lane Boutique Favorite Sugardaddy’s Favorite Spoiled Rotten Boutique

Best Carpet/Flooring/Tile

Best “Made in Bakersfield” Product

Winner Carpet Outlet Plus Favorite Bill Ray Ceramic Tile Center Favorite Stockdale Tile

Winner Dewar’s Favorite Smith’s Bakeries Favorite Pyrenees French Bakery

Best Electronics

Best Shopping Center Best Men’s Apparel Winner Snead’s for Men Favorite Emporium Western Store Favorite H. Walker’s

Best Sporting Goods Best Motorcycle Shop Winner Bakersfield Harley-Davidson Favorite Valley Cycle & Motorsports Favorite Fred Cummings Motorsports

Best New Car Dealership Winner Bill Wright Toyota Favorite Motor City Buick GMC Favorite Three-Way Chevrolet Cadillac

Best Florist

Winner Best Buy Favorite Costco Favorite Urner’s

Winner Log Cabin Florist Favorite Garden District Flowers Favorite Uniquely Chic Florist & Boutique

Best Furniture Store

Winner The Marketplace Favorite Valley Plaza Mall Favorite Outlets at Tejon

Best Nursery/Garden Store

Winner Dick’s Sporting Goods Favorite Action Sports Favorite Sports Chalet

Best Tuxedo Store Winner Mr. Tuxedo Favorite AJ’s Tuxedos Junction Favorite Men’s Wearhouse

Best Used Car Dealership Winner Bill Wright Toyota Favorite Jim Burke Ford Favorite Motor City

Winner White Forest Nursery Favorite Bolles Nursery Favorite Robby’s Nursery

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Winner Weatherby’s Furniture Favorite Red Door Interiors Favorite Ashley Furniture

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AT YOUR SERVICE

At Essentiels Spa et Beaute, clients are spoiled with great treatment all around.

pend a few hours at Essentiels Spa et Beaute and leave feeling like a brand-new person. From the complimentary champagne as you first walk in, to the exclusive products only found at the full-service salon and day spa, the experience is heavenly. Essentiels has been nestled at The Marketplace since 2001 and owner Deedee Todd said she feels fortunate to have such great local support. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Providing the best customer service is our goal and 130

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Family owned and operated since 1954! “Voted Best Basque Restaurant 20 years in a row!”

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Essentiels Spa et Beaute Best Hair Salon

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Our 61th Anniversary!

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Best Place To Take Out-Of-Town Guests

327-9584 620 East Nineteenth Street www.woolgrowers.net • Closed Sundays to make everyone feel special and happy,” Todd noted. At Essentiels, you can find highly skilled stylists, Essentiels Spa massage therapists and et Beaute estheticians. 9000 Ming Ave., Suite K7 As the clientele con661-654-0321 tinues to grow, so does www.edayspas.com the establishment. In 2007, Essentiels doubled its square footage and remodeled the salon last year.

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Brown Armstrong Certified Public Accountants 4200 Truxtun Ave., Suite 300 661-324-4971 www.bacpas.com Brown Armstrong Certified Public Accountants Best Accounting Firm

Brown Armstrong staff in front of their offices on Truxtun Avenue.

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or more than 40 years, Brown Armstrong Certified Public Accountants has continued its founding tradition: to exceed client expectations and provide opportunities. The accounting firm has grown to a team of 11 partners and offers services in consulting and taxing. But besides the importance of numbers, the Brown Armstrong staff believes in building a relationship with a client from the beginning. A relationship built on trust leads the firm in providing the highest quality service in Kern County.

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REAL ESTATE AGENT

Sheeza: 661-472-2761 • William: 661-431-5534 Office: 661-617-3991 Sheeza CalBRE#01462106 • William CalBRE#01854520 Watson Realty ERA CalBRE#00782354

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The creative minds of Saba Agency.

om Saba, president of Saba Agency, didn’t think twice of establishing roots in Bakersfield nearly 25 years ago. “I’ve always enjoyed Bakersfield because of my relationships with locals and you can’t beat the big small town relationships,” he said. Saba Agency provides services in Web development, design and print, and media management. The agency has an award-winning, in-house design team that can develop, design and 134

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Hair Salon

Saba Agency Best Advertising Agency

3310 TRUXTUN AVE, SUITE 140

1811 OAK ST. SUITE 125

661-852-0976

661-323-1168

Some of our services include:

• Highlights • Perms • Hair Extensions • Manicures/Acrylics • Pedicure Spa Chair • Massage Therapy • Spray Tanning

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• Waxing • Facials • Make-Up • Microdermabrasion • Eyelash Extensions • Permanent Makeup • Hair Color

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implement a custom website for a company. When asked what made Saba Agency unique, the president Saba Agency said it was 5329 Office Center Court, the diversity Suite 220 of its servic661-326-0393 es and www.sabaagency.com employees. “We take pride in rolling up our sleeves and getting down to business,” he said.

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Chain | Cohn | Stiles Best Law Firm

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hain | Cohn | Stiles has become a landmark in Kern County with a reputation of helping our own neighbors get through tough situations since 1934. “The best part of our jobs is running into former clients around Bakersfield, who once came to us for help in their most vulnerable moments and thanking Chain | Cohn | us for helping Stiles them with 1430 Truxtun Ave. their cases,” said managing 661-323-4000 partner David www.chainlaw.com K. Cohn. Something that sets the law firm apart is all or most of its staff and attorneys either were born and raised in Bakersfield or have called it home for years. As such, the care for local cases is important to the firm. “The results of our cases have led to safer workplaces, better roadways, and, in some cases, more accountability,” Cohn added.

At Your Service winners Best Advertising Agency

Best Tire Store

Winner Saba Agency Favorite Ugly Duck Marketing Favorite The Marcom Group

Winner America’s Tire Co. Favorite Big Brand Tire Favorite Big O Tires

Best Auto Service

Best Funeral Home

Winner Bill Wright Toyota Favorite Jim Burke Ford Favorite Motor City GMC Buick Lexus

Winner Greenlawn Mortuary and Cemetery Favorite Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary Favorite Basham Funeral Care

Best CPA/Accounting Firm Winner Brown Armstrong Certified Public Accountants Favorite Daniells Phillips Vaughan & Bock CPA’s & Advisors Favorite Wren Kelly CPAs LLP

Best Customer Service Winner Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa Favorite Costco Favorite Cruz Thru Car Wash

Best Drycleaner Winner Today Cleaners Favorite New City Cleaners Favorite Waterfall Cleaners

Best Hotel Winner The Padre Hotel Favorite Bakersfield Marriott Hotel Favorite Doubletree Hotel

Best Interior Designer Winner Robert Moseley House of Moseley Favorite Red Door Interiors Favorite Melissa Hutton - Beladagio

Best Lawyer Winner David Cohn Favorite Daniel Rodriguez Favorite David Blaine

Best Law Firm

Best Pet Supplies Winner PetSmart Favorite Petco Favorite The Village Pet Market

Best Real Estate Agent Winner Jon Busby at Re/Max Magic Favorite Mary Christenson at Watson Realty ERA Favorite Sheeza Gordon at Watson Realty ERA

Winner DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Favorite Sorci Construction Services Favorite Blue River Cabinetry Kitchen and Bath

Interior Designer

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Best Mortgage Company Winner Kern Schools Federal Credit Union Favorite Wells Fargo Favorite Agape Mortgage

Best New Home Builder Winner Castle & Cooke Inc. Favorite John Balfanz Homes Inc. Favorite Froehlich Signature Homes

Where Beautiful Homes Begin

9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 705 NE corner of Brimhall & Calloway in Brimhall Square shopping center.

829-2288 • www.beladagio.com

Best Pest Control Company Winner Clark Pest Control Favorite Banks Pest Control Inc. Favorite Oxley Pest Control Inc.

Best Real Estate Company Winner Miramar International Favorite Watson Realty ERA Favorite Coldwell Banker Preferred, Realtors

Best Retirement Home Winner Glenwood Gardens Favorite Rosewood Favorite Pacifica Senior Living

Best Spa Winner Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa Favorite EuroPhoria Medical & Personal Spa Favorite Essentiels Spa et Beaute

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Winner Chain Cohn Stiles Favorite Klein DeNatale Goldner Favorite Young Wooldridge

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Winner Oasis Air Conditioning and Heating Favorite Gundlach’s Favorite Bland Solar & Air

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Best Heating/Air

Winner Aladdin Bail Bonds Favorite Gotta Go Bail Bonds Favorite Absolute Bail Bonds

Best Bail Bonds Company

Make your home a “Best Of ”with our “Best Interior Designer” nominee.

Best Travel Agency Winner AAA Automobile Club Favorite Lambourne Travel Favorite Uniglobe Golden Empire Travel

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Best Hair Salon Winner Essentiels Spa et Beaute Favorite Paragon Salon Spa Favorite Protege Hair Designs TH h.v 3TREET $OWNTOWN "AKERSlELD s OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

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14 Convenient Locations in Kern, Kings and Southern Tulare Counties.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF SOUTH CENTRAL CALIFORNIA What makes the Goodwill program special? As a not-for-profit organization, Goodwill focuses on helping people achieve their full potential through the power of work. Community members give generously of their clothing and household goods and Goodwill turns Goodwill Industries those donations into full-time jobs, of South Central which in turn, gives back to the comCalifornia munity. Additionally, proceeds from 14 locations in Kern, Kings and the retail stores help fund employSouthern Tulare counties ment preparation, workshops and job www.giscc.org search services through Goodwill’s Success Center in Bakersfield. While we are thrilled that the community knows us as a great place drop off donations and to shop for quality secondhand goods, what makes us special is the people we employ who might not otherwise have jobs if not for Goodwill.

Are employees able to promote up in Goodwill? One of our program goals is to bring in entry-level employees and give them the training, experience and opportunity to promote up within the organization. In 2014, we were able to promote up 38 individuals at an annual average 138

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wage increase of $3,471 and it typically took about 16 months for them to achieve that promotion.

Does Goodwill offer more than employment programs? Yes. We offer many other programs in the community, includSheryl Chalupa, ing partnerships with other nonpresident and CEO profits. We are in our ninth year of partnering with the Transition to Independent Living Program at Taft College. In that time, we’ve served as a job-training site to approximately 90 students. Our Goodwill and others around the state have hired about 15 of the TIL graduates in our retail stores. In our partnership with the Department of Rehabilitation in 2014, we placed 34 clients in community employment and we continue to work with them on job placement. And thanks to a grant from PG&E, we developed and implemented a program entitled ENERGY at Sunset Middle School to promote student interest in STEM fields. Through the program, Goodwill serves approximately 60 students.

Is there anything else you think we should know about Goodwill? We are thankful to those who share their goodwill with us through their generous donations and shopping in our stores. In turn, we enjoy sharing goodwill with you. Stay tuned; soon we’ll be accepting nominations for ambassadors of Goodwill in our community.

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TODAY CLEANERS NOW OFFERS …

THE TODAY CUSTOMER REWARDS PROGRAM TODAY CLEANERS

sign-up, and our system tracks the points for them – no card to carry around. When they reach 100 points, the customer receives an exclusive reward coupon for 50 percent off all garments on their next visit, anytime in the next 60 days, with no limit on the number of garments they can bring!

What are some of the more unique features of Today Cleaners? In addition to the fact that we are locally owned and have been in business more than 65 years, Today Cleaners is proud to exclusively use the GreenEarth cleaning system, which maintains the highest standards of cleaning quality while simultaneously being environmentally responsible. Today Cleaners has been licensed to use this proprietary cleaning system for over 15 years and has invested in the most advanced cleaning machine technology possible. We also employ skilled garment specialists at Today Cleaners every location to give our customers 10 locations across Bakersfield personalized service and answer queswww.todaycleaners.com tions about their items; we have an Express Service that saves customers even more time; we are open longer hours than any other dry cleaner in the area; and our “in by 11, ready at 4” service promise is valid seven days a week for our customers’ convenience. We are also proud to announce the launch of the Today Customer Rewards Program as an added benefit for ALL our customers.

What is the new Today Customer Rewards Program all about? We have so many loyal customers who utilize our services on a regular basis that we wanted to thank them for their consistent trust in our company. The Today Customer Rewards Program is a customer loyalty program whereby ALL of our customers automatically earn points based on dollars spent toward a valuable reward. The more they bring in, the faster the points add up! There is no 140

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Jeff Newman, Jr., President and CEO

Your service promise of “in by 11, ready at 4” seems like a really fast turnaround. Is it possible to get high-quality results that quickly?

Absolutely! Each of our 10 locations has a well-trained staff that has the expertise to handle all aspects of garment care. All of our locations are equipped with a full dry cleaning plant and shirt laundry, so we don’t waste valuable time moving customers’ clothes to a remote production facility. Cleaners that keep your garments for several days do so because it is convenient for them. It does not take that long to do a quality job. At Today Cleaners, our mission is to provide ready-to-wear garments back to the customer, at THEIR convenience, seven days a week.

How is the Express Service able to save customers time? Customers who utilize Express Service are given two free, barcode-identified Express Bags to collect their garments. They can drop them off in the 24-hour express drop box located at each store, or just hand it to any of our friendly staff – no waiting in line necessary. We can also store the customer’s encrypted payment information in our secure point-of-sale system for express pickup, so there is no waiting. Regular customers love our Express Service!

Business Profile SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BREHMER LAW What is Brehmer Law? Brehmer Law is the top law firm in California representing clients accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What does Brehmer Law specialize in? When science intersects with law, Brehmer Law focuses on cases dealing with all types of laboratory analysis in an effort to ensure that convictions don't result from less than the reliable science of breath and blood alcohol testing. With more specialized training than the users that operate the breath and blood alcohol instruments, the attorneys at Brehmer Law have achieved results uncommon in the practice of scientific legal defense.

What separates Brehmer Law from other law firms? The attorneys at Brehmer Law Brehmer Law are the most 1200 Truxtun Ave., trained in sciSuite 120 entific defense, 661-447-4384 are the most www.brehmerlaw.com published in forensic science in central California and have the most national speaking engagements in the area of forensic science among all law lawyers in the region.

Jeremy Brehmer

Who should contact Brehmer Law?

Client endorsements

Peer endorsements

If you or a loved one is accused of driving under influence or any case involving chemical testing or forensics, Brehmer Law can help.

“Hands-down the best DUI attorney in Bakersfield and certainly one of the best in the nation. This guy is an incredibly competent, HIGHLY effective, industry-recognized professional. He worked a miracle on my behalf, and I will be forever grateful to him for his assistance and representation. One of the best decisions I've ever made. Let me put it this way: Hire Mr. Brehmer only if you want the second-to-none best attorney you can get to represent you in your DUI/DWI matter. Or hire someone else if you want to roll the dice but do so knowing that you won't be getting the best. Mr. Brehmer has my eternal gratitude and appreciation.” — Brent R.

“Jeremy Brehmer and his firm would be my first choice if I had a family member or friend charged with a crime in the greater Bakersfield area. I routinely see Jeremy at cuttingedge training workshops across the country for trial skills and scientific issues that affect representation of the accused. Without question, Jeremy is probably one of a handful of the best-trained and educated criminal defense and DUI lawyers across the country. I have reached out to Jeremy on multiple occasions when I wanted a skilled and experienced opinion about legal strategy. Without reservation, I would trust Jeremy to handle any case that was of importance to me or a loved one.” — Marcos Garza, lawyer

What should clients look for in an attorney? The area of law, like the area of medicine, is broad. Clients must select the best-trained, most educated lawyer who specializes in forensic science cases to obtain the very best results. The attorneys at Brehmer Law are, in fact, the most trained and most educated. Past clients and colleagues across the country agree. 142

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MR BREHMER IS THE ONLY CENTRAL CALIFORNIA DUI ATTORNEY

to be a three straight year selection to the Southern California Super Lawyers Rising Star list (top 2 Â˝% of lawyers in California) and is recognized as one of Southern Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Top Attorneysâ&#x20AC;? as published in Los Angeles Magazine. He is honored to be designated an â&#x20AC;&#x153;ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientistâ&#x20AC;? by the American Chemical Society having obtained the highest student score on the examination among all California lawyers.

PRIOR TO BEING RECOGNIZED as Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Lawyer-Scientist, Mr. Brehmer received specialized training and further education in standardized Ă?HOG VREULHW\ WHVWLQJ JDV FKURPDWRJUDSK\ VROLG GUXJ GRVH DQDO\VLV '1$ DLUZD\ gas exchange, and is the only Kern County Defense attorney to be trained in drug recognition examinations. He is routinely asked to consult with both private and public attorneys throughout the country on issues of toxicology and pharmacology.

MR. BREHMER IS HONORED TO have presented multiple times to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the American Chemical Society, state and local public defender associations across the country, state defense bar conferences, law schools, and others associated with the forensic and legal community. 0U %UHKPHU ZDV UHFHQWO\ VHOHFWHG WR PRGHUDWH WKH Ă?QDO MXULVSUXGHQFH VHVVLRQ RI WKH American Academy of Forensic Sciences annual meeting in Florida.

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JEREMY BREHMER FROM CALIFORNIA WWW.BREHMERLAW.COM

IN ADDITION TO OTHER PUBLICATIONS and those in process Mr. Brehmer has authored chapters about forensic science in criminal cases, search and seizure, pharmacology, drug detection limits, and discovery in several Aspatore/ Thomson Reuters books. He is a contributing author on a blood alcohol analysis for West publishers, the co-author of the feature article for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers publication, the Champion, and is co-editor/author of 0HGLFROHJDO $VSHFWV RI 0DULMXDQD &DOLIRUQLD HGLWLRQ E\ /DZ\HUV DQG -XGJHV Publishing.

AS A DIRECTOR AND COMMITTEE CHAIR for the national DUI Defense /DZ\HUV $VVRFLDWLRQ DQG DV DQ LQVWUXFWRU DW 7ULDO 6NLOOV 8QLYHUVLW\ 0U %UHKPHU LV D Ă?UP believer that a rising tide lifts all boats. It is for this reason that he dedicates much RI KLV WLPH WR KHOS WUDLQ RWKHU ODZ\HUV LQ WKH VFLHQWLĂ?F DVSHFW RI FULPLQDO GHIHQVH WR HQVXUH WKDW RQO\ YDOLG VFLHQFH LV SUHVHQWHG LQ $PHULFDQ MXULVSUXGHQFH 1200 TRUXTUN AVENUE, SUITE 120 | BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 (661) 447-4384

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ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS AND INSTRUMENTATION, INC. (ESI) What makes ESI so successful and different from its competition? Many things make ESI unique and contribute to our success. Our core values apply to our company, employees and clients and begin with safety at the very top of the list. Then we add an unwavering commitment to quality, and, finally, we insert value in two distinct ways. The first, is that we are constantly looking for ways to add value to the products and services we deliver to our clients. The second ensures that if something we are about to do will not add value, we open up dialog and don’t blindly do it. Our acronym for these key founding prinElectrical Systems ciples, our “key elements of success,” and Instrumentation is SQV. We then take SQV even further (ESI) and deliver it with integrity, profes6906 Downing Ave. sionalism and respect (IPR). All of 661-587-9322 these values and principles, plus www.elect-systems.com many more, are truly sacred within our organization. Does all of this mean we are perfect? Absolutely not, but we strive to get better with each and every day. Over the years, we have observed several of our peers advertising similar key elements of success. My personal hope is that their ads convey more than just words and that each element is taken as seriously as we take it at ESI. We not only want our ESI employees to stay safe 144

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and thrive, but we want that for their families as well.

What will keep ESI strong during difficult times? In good times and in bad, we philosophically believe in placing our employees, as a whole, ahead of the company. If you take care of Robert C. Riley, your employee family, they, in turn, president will become a dedicated and loyal team that takes care of the company. This doesn’t mean that you forgo making necessary and often heart-wrenching business decisions and course corrections; we must and do. Further, our leadership team’s ability to recognize, identify and quickly respond to change benefits the employee base as a whole. These facts, coupled with the exceptional and motivational participation and understanding of our employee family, will continue to keep us strong.

We hear that ESI prides itself on being a "family." Can you explain that? ESI is both a family and a team, but let’s focus briefly on the family side of this very important equation. It is always our goal and desire that every employee is treated as a member of the ESI family with every action that takes place. It is the management and ownership team’s committed belief that our employees are No. 1 and our clients a very, very close second that helps to put it all into perspective. Ultimately, our team’s heartfelt commitment runs deeper than words can explain or describe.

Business Profile

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optimization terms; or creating a hybrid blend of new and traditional forms, Heise Media Group excels in finding the right combination.

HEISE MEDIA GROUP Celebrating 16 years of innovative ideas What makes Heise Media Group unique? We know Bakersfield, the Central Valley and the Central Coast because we have been a successful part of the business landscape for more than 16 years. We understand our community and the businesses here – and we can help them succeed using our expertise in marketing and advertising. Our business savvy is not limited to the Central Valley, however. We have long-term, successful relationships with clients as far away as Seattle and Arizona. Not only do we serve our local clients, we Heise Media Group are involved in various community 1400 Easton Drive, Suite 148 organizations and activities. For exam661-323-8594 ple, our founder and owner, Marlene www.heisemedia.com Heise, helped produce the Bakersfield College Foundation Sterling Silver fundraising event in February. We believe helping our community benefits everyone – businesses and residents alike.

How can a business know how to best utilize its marketing/advertising dollars? This can be confusing and overwhelming, especially in today’s media-saturated environment. Heise Media Group works with each client to find the best combination of marketing data and advertising tools that will maximize his or her budgeted dollars. Whether it’s utilizing a mix of traditional media, such as print ads, radio spots or television commercials; or tapping the latest in Web-based and social media opportunities, like e-blasts, websites, tweets or search engine 146

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What’s the difference between marketing and advertising? Marlene Heise, owner

Marketing involves preparing your product or service for the marketplace. Knowing who your customers are and why they would need or want what you have to offer is part of the marketing process. Your logo, tagline, jingle — all the elements that align your company’s image in your target audience’s mind are integral in defining your brand and attracting market share. Advertising is simply getting the information about your business, service and/or products into the marketplace. Heise Media Group’s highly skilled team uses its extensive knowledge to determine exactly who makes up a client’s target audience and then executes a successful advertising campaign to make the client’s message stand out using the most effective advertising methods. And because each company is unique, each marketing plan and advertising strategy will be customized to the company’s needs.

What is your definition of success? One of the most telling factors of a successful business is what your clients say about you. We feel we are successful because our clients tell their business associates about us — word of mouth is so influential! In addition, clients regularly use words such as innovative, creative, invaluable and fabulous to describe our work. We feel successful when our clients are pleased with our work and tell others!

You know your businessâ&#x20AC;Ś

we know marketing. From building great brands to social media, web site development to traditional media, media buying to powerful media integration, Heise Media is your full-service marketing solution. Celebrating 16 years of innovative ideas to maximize your advertising and marketing dollars.

1400 EASTON DR. SUITE 148, BAKERSFIELD, CA 93309

HEISEMEDIA.COM | 661.323.8594

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NEW 20-BED EXPANSION COMING SOON! HEALTHSOUTH Why is stroke an illness that Kern County residents should be aware of and what role does HealthSouth play in a patient’s recovery? Stroke is the No. 1 debilitating illness in the United States, and Kern County ranks among the counties most impacted by stroke. HealthSouth Bakersfield Rehabilitation Hospital is committed to providing evidenced-based rehabilitation care to the patients in our community and returning them to the highest level of function possible. We are the only acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Kern County certified in stroke rehabilitation by the Joint Commission. In HealthSouth other words, HealthSouth is the 5001 Commerce Drive preferred provider for stroke rehab 661-323-5500 in Bakersfield. Patients and families www.healthsouthbakersfield.com can request a HealthSouth evaluation at any time during their hospital stay and many times they’ll find that their physician or case manager has already thought of doing so.

What should a patient expect if they come to HealthSouth for stroke rehabilitation? HealthSouth is an acute rehabilitation hospital, not a skilled nursing facility or nursing home. All acute rehabilitation hospitals are strictly regulated by Medicare and have guidelines that must be followed in order to maintain their hospital status. At HealthSouth, each patient must be accepted and overseen by a physical medicine and rehabilitation 148

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Martha Samora, RN, CPHQ, FACHE, chief executive officer

physician (a doctor who specializes in rehabilitation). Our patients receive therapy three hours a day, five days a week by licensed therapists. Most stroke patients at HealthSouth stay two to three weeks before returning to their home setting. You can find out more about what to expect at HealthSouth by watching a video at healthsouthbakersfield.com/ expectations.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital? For many years, HealthSouth was the only provider that offered a community support group for stroke patients. Recently, we have joined with several community partners, including San Joaquin Community Hospital, American Stroke Association (a division of American Heart Association), Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, Centre for Neuro Skills and Trinity Medical Transport, to expand stroke support services to more patients in the community. Stroke support group meetings provide valuable information and support for stroke survivors and their families and are offered on the last Tuesday of the month at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital. For more information, contact Jerry Garzaro at 323-5500, ext. 4093. Additionally, to meet the needs of our community, HealthSouth has been constructing a 20-bed expansion, which is planned to open toward the end of this summer. This new wing will allow HealthSouth to help even more people in our community, as well as provide new jobs locally.

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THE VILLAGE AT SEVEN OAKS

uthor Julia H. Gulliver once said, “Let us never be betrayed into saying we have finished our education because that would mean we had stopped growing.” These are profound words that have great meaning. At The Village at Seven Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care, under construction at 4301 Buena Vista Road, we will be redefining senior living in Bakersfield. Regardless of age, the opportunity to learn new things, to broaden one’s horiThe Village at zons, is an important part of a healthy Seven Oaks lifestyle. Frontier Management, LLC A brand-new community designed 4301 Buena Vista Road for both assisted living and memory 661-837-1337 care, we know that there is more to prowww.villageatsevenoaks.com gramming than bingo and scenic rides. Too much of what is available to seniors today focuses on a perceived notion of what you “can’t do.” Although unintentional, the reality shows this to be true. By incorporating a program based in 150

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Montessori principles, we challenge those who will choose The Village at Seven Oaks to be engaged in their lives, to be adventurous and to rethink what senior living can be. Engaging our minds and challenging our intellects support a more vital presence and, simply put, it’s just plain fun. You’ve always wanted to learn more about that song that should have been written, you know exactly what it should have been. You have strong opinions about democracy and yearn for more knowledge about this uniquely American form of government. That special author who paints a picture with words, hear her speak about the journey that brought the story to life. The Village at Seven Oaks believes that now is your time. By bringing a form of continuing education into the retirement setting, our goal is to redefine the “old school” identity of senior living. We’re not satisfied to “think outside the box;” we are throwing the box away. Every day we learn new ways that we can enhance how we age, ways to minimize the impacts of aging on the body and how we can improve the lives of those living with cognitive impairment by exercising our brains. When something as simple as this can contribute so much to a healthier life, the choice is simple. We’re often asked if it can really be different. Our answer? Yes. It can be different. Let us show you how! If you would like to get more information about reserving your apartment at The Village at Seven Oaks, please call 837-1337 today.

Now Accepting Reservations A new option in senior living is coming to Bakersfield, where every service is designed to support your independence and well being. You will find extraordinary life enrichment programming, innovative supportive health services, and a refreshing concept for Assisted Living and Memory Care.

Special rates for Early Depositors reserve your apartment today. It can be different...we can show you how!

Sales Office Now Open at 4301 Buena Vista Road RCFE License Pending

(661) 837-1337 villageatsevenoaks.com

People & Community

B A K E R S F I E L D M AT T E R S

By Lisa Kimble

A RECIPE FOR TOGETHERNESS Former media personality bringing conversation back to dinner table

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“One of the Family,” by Frederick George Cotman

amazing dinnertime conversations. No topic was off-limits. My father was an attorney and a pastor and often law students would be invited,” Smith explained. “I wanted to recreate that with my own family, but when I

“Thank you Kern County for nominating us”

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(661) 397-5070

FAVORITE A Family Tradition Since 1948

If you don’t know jewelry, know your jeweler.

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would strike up a conversation with my own kids, all I would hear were forks.” Research supported her growing concern that people weren’t engaged in meaningful conversations around the dinner table.

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efore Inga, before Scott, before Ralph, there was Julienne. Julienne Smith, the raspy-voiced, strawberry blond spitfire local media personality who owned the midday local radio airwaves back in the ’90s. For Smith, talk wasn’t cheap. It was her stock in trade. But 15 years ago she traded it for the chance to return to her native Orange County with her family. She still had plenty to say, though, to her audience gathered around the dinner table – her children. “I grew up in a home where we had

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simple – no electronics, no interrupting or arguing, and in the beginning, aim for at least once a week. It’s been more than 30 years since Smith and I were beginning our broadcasting careers together in a tiny radio booth. I think this is by far her most important work. Our family, its nest thinned out a bit, has begun using the cards, and it is now a nightly ritual with our youngest. Like my mother’s wellworn, stained pie recipe card, already our “Food for Talk” box is showing loving wear and tear at our dinner table. Remember, it’s not about the food, but the fellowship. It’s not about the cooking, but the conversation. It’s not too late to begin making it part of your family mealtime. It may be one of the best things you do for your family. To find out more, visit foodfortalk.net or Facebook.com/ foodfortalk. Lisa Kimble

are less at risk of drug and alcohol use, have lower rates of obesity, and fewer behavioral problems or reports of depression. Smith, a graduate of San Diego State, moved to Bakersfield in 1982 and began working at KGEO FM. Soon after, she was reporting and anchoring the news for KBAK TV. By the ’90s, she was hosting a three-hour radio program sandwiched between nationally syndicated powerhouses Rush Limbaugh and Dr. Laura. At ease in front of an audience, with the launch of “Food for Talk,” Smith has found herself once again in front of a microphone, speaking across the country on the rewards children reap from shared family mealtime. In addition to the “Family Edition,” there is also the “Travel Edition” and the “Couples Edition.” Winner of the National Parenting Publication Award, the program, which Smith says her children referred to as a ‘game’ when they were younger, poses questions like “What do you think is your best character trait?” or “Who is the one living person in the world you admire most and why?” The rules of engagement, according to its creator, are

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Americans spend more than 28 hours a week watching television, yet a fraction of that talking with their kids. She began jotting quotes and insightful questions on index cards. It was the perfect recipe! No longer, when asked about their day, would her two sons and daughter answer in three or four words. In 2004, Smith self-published “Food for Talk,” a recipe box filled with 200 cards of quotations and thought-provoking questions aimed at bringing families together one conversation at a time, as her product promises. Within a year she says four publishers were clamoring for it. Her family couldn’t stop talking and others were taking notice. Kentucky Fried Chicken featured “Food for Talk” on its “Bring Back Dinner” website. Communication may be an underappreciated or dying art, but the benefits of chewing on food for thought while breaking bread with family at dinnertime are indisputable. According to research conducted by the Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, kids who eat regular dinners with their parents have better grades,

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People & Community

FA M I LY V E R D I C T

By Katy Raytis

THE BEST AT BEING THE WORST The kids’ loss is mom’s gain

oes being the best at being the worst still count as being the best? I hope so because there is nothing I love more than quitting, particularly when it comes to the kids. I feel a warm surge of glee when my child announces that she is sick of tennis or hates T-ball. Kid quitting is my get-outof-jail-free card. Except it’s more like a get-out-of-driving-allover-town-free card. Plus, the other perks, like not having to hide your wine in a Starbucks cup. I didn’t know I wanted to raise a brood of quitters until I started signing my kids up for activities. Volleyball. Golf. Piano. Ballet. Gymnastics. Soccer. Ice skating. Track. Cheerleading. We have done it all, or at least started it all, anyway. When my oldest daughter was 4, I signed her up for soc-

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cer. She had practice once a week and a scrimmage every weekend. We went to the first practice. At the next practice, they had pictures, so we went to that one too. Then we never went back. When the coach called at the end of the season for the team party, I asked who he was and whether he had the wrong number. I didn’t learn from that experience. Maybe that’s because quitting was easy when the kids didn’t know that a sport season lasts longer than two practices and has games that people actually attend. Instead, I kept on signing up for new activities. Then I would get to the team meeting and have to pretend to get a phone call as soon as the coach asked for volunteers. “Team mom? Oh hang on, this is a really important call.” A lot of my friends have their kids in club sports. Club sports basically means that the parents have no life beyond driving to and from practices, games and tournaments. I will never sign up for a club sport. The closest we came to the club schedule was when my middle daughter was on a soccer team that couldn’t lose. We played soccer from August until March. When they finally lost, most of the kids were in tears and so were a lot of the parents. I cried, too, except mine were tears of joy.

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Ironically, I never sign up for something with the intention of quitting. It always sounds like fun at the start. But somewhere around the third week, the excitement wears off, and I find myself giving the same, “Do you really want to keep doing this?” speech. It’s helpful if there is a Disney movie on TV because then I can say: “Wouldn’t you rather just stay here and watch TV?” People will tell you that you shouldn’t let your kids quit once they have started something. But everyone knows that kids rebel against what they see at home. So when my kids rebel, they are going to persevere. I think that’s good parenting. Maybe even the best parenting because even if my kids don’t rebel, I will have equipped them with important skills for rehab. Meanwhile, I’ll save a lot of money in gas. Last week, I sat in front of my house while my kids rode their bikes after school. Never mind that we were supposed to be at a basketball game. Instead, I worked on my tan, drank wine from a real glass and watched my sweet daughter ride headfirst into the street sign on the corner. Truly, if that’s not the best, I don’t know what is. Katy Raytis

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People & Community

PERSONALITY

HOME COOKING FROM THE HEART Tradition and family values keeps restaurant going strong By Diana Greenlee

Hodel’s menu is based on recipes from Lydia Bartel Hodel, Bob Hodel’s mother.

CALIFORNIAN FILE PHOTO

odel’s Country Dining is bustling on a Sunday afternoon during the time you’d expect a lull between lunch and dinner. It’s standing room only for the family-run restaurant that is a mainstay on the list of a handful of enduring local family businesses. In an era of corporatization, Hodel’s defies the trend using old-fashioned values and recipes that have brought them a cult following. On this day, patriarch Bob Hodel, 79, is seated next to his wife of 54 years, Muriel, 75, along with the rest of the clan enjoying brunch in one of the cozy banquet rooms; his son Don Hodel seated across. Bob’s bright eyes and warm smile convey a sense of welcoming. The younger version, Don is professional and sincere. They share a sense of humor that’s the hallmark of a strong relationship – business and personal – and their roles are well-defined. Don’s been moving from the general manager position into the driver’s seat over the last few years.

“I’m CEO pending retirement,” said Bob. “Pending death,” Don interjected, assuring his dad isn’t going away. “Don is in full control,” added Bob.

transferring to UC Davis to study agriculture. A Korean War veteran, he served for a year with the Army as a medic stationed in Germany. He came home in 1955 and went to work for the Farm Bureau Cooperative for five years. Bob introduced Hodel’s Family Dining after a short stint in the burger business. He owned the Foster Freeze on Brundage Lane for a couple of years, but found it wasn’t the right fit. “Tell them how you got tired of flipping burgers after six months,” Don teased. Bob agreed, citing a limited menu as a recipe for boredom. The original buffet — Bob Hodel launched in 1967 at Valley Plaza. That year Bob’s mother, Lydia Bartel Hodel, retired from her position in the Rio Bravo-Greely school cafeteria. The owner said the students’ parents were glad to see her go. “They were sick and tired of the kids going home and saying the food was not as good as the food at school,” he said. Lydia cooked 20 years at the restaurant; she died in 1993. She left a lasting impression on their food and in their hearts. Don, 53, says they’ve worked hard to retain the original flavor of his grandmother’s recipes – Bob agrees. “We’ve really captured the essence of the flavor mom had,” Bob said. “It’s developed to taste good,” Don followed up. “Then we look at costs.” The family opened the restaurant on Knudsen in 1968, and later two more in the southland; all but Knudsen were strategically closed.

“

My mom said she liked the hot food hot and the cold food cold. She was a lady of principle.

”

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Hodel’s Country Dining Best Buffet

A New Era “I’ve lived within a six-mile radius of

From left, Luis Trevino, Bob Hodel, Nathan Hodel and Don Hodel at Hodel’s Country Dining.

this restaurant (on Knudsen) my whole life,” said Don. The younger Hodel started prepping and washing dishes before he was 10. A North High grad, he went on to BC and then Pepperdine University, earning a bachelor’s in business. He attended the Master’s College for biblical studies and the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Portland. While in college, Don worked at Marie Callender’s near Magic Mountain as wait staff. He’s not afraid of a little elbow grease.

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“I paid for my own car, own gas, groceries and rent,” said Don. “Nobody washed my car for 11 years.” “Now you’re bragging,” said Bob. The Hodels have plenty to boast about. For almost 50 years they’ve served three meals a day, with Easter and Christmas the exceptions. They began catering in the early 1990s, serving as many as 5,000 people for an event over a weekend. “Our goal for large groups is to feed within 20-25 minutes max,” said Don. The Hodels have a staff of 70-plus. Their daughter Becky Trevino, 51, a music teacher at Norris school, helps with catering and her

husband Luis Trevino, 50, handles maintenance and finance. Don and his wife of 20 years, Jayme, 47, have three boys: Caleb, 18; Joshua, 16; and Nathaniel, 13. The next generation of Hodels is in place. “Caleb has been doing delivery drop-offs and helping with the catering as well,” said proud papa Don. Bob says they operate on a tradition of family values, including a strong work ethic, cleanliness, customer service and faith in God – priorities stemming from their roots. “My mom said she liked the hot food hot and the cold food cold,” he said. “She was a lady of principle.”

At JOHN BALFANZ HOMES we are committed to your enduring satisfaction with your new custom or semi-custom home. As Bakersfield’s most experienced local homebuilder, we ensure that your new home is built with quality craftsmanship, exceptional design and the utmost care, providing you with maximum value for your investment. You can count on John Balfanz Homes to make your dream home a reality, to make your home buying process pleasant and to remain committed to your satisfaction even after you move in. Because like you, we are a proud part of the Bakersfield community.

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H O M E TOW N H E R O

PAUL MADRIZ USMC Marine Wing Support Squadron 473 Detachment Alpha, Corporal Compiled by Bakersfield Life

hen Paul Madriz learned of the 9/11 tragedies and its rippling effect on the country that day in 2009, he knew he had to do something. So he put his undergrad engineering degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on hold and enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. Today, Madriz is still a part of the few and the proud as a USMC reservist, but the local resident protects his country in another way as well: He is a Bakersfield Police Department officer. His USMC duties, however, center on working alongside junior Marines. “My Marines and I maintain a range of vehicles, from the Humvee to the MRAP, keeping our equipment ready to deploy at any given time,” Madriz said. Bakersfield Life asked him to share a little more about his commitment to serve in the military. What are some important lessons learned by serving in the military? Marines rarely have the tools and equipment they need, but we always accomplish our mission. This strain of resources has taught me that I can undertake any challenge. What are some of your greatest accomplishments in the service? I view my greatest accomplishments by the success of my junior Marines. I have learned that leading by example is the best way to lead. I am the unit guide and maintain one of the highest fitness scores at the unit. I have not felt more accomplished than when one of the Marines I mentor scored higher than me on our last fitness test. Describe a challenge you faced in the military that you learned to overcome. A constant challenge I faced from

The Motor Transport Maintenance section of USMC Cpl. Paul Madriz’s unit at the end of a long drill. Madriz is standing front row, third from right. pares a group of Kern County youth to spend 10 days on Camp Pendleton in the summer, and he has invited me to help local teens build the confidence and discipline that the Marine Corps has given me.

Madriz with fellow Marines in mountain warfare training.

day one in the Marine Corps was a struggle to overcome physical and mental pain. The Marine Corps has pushed me so far out of my comfort zone for so long I am accustomed to working outside of my boundaries. The Marine Corps has taught me that you must be willing to challenge yourself to grow. Is there someone in the military who has inspired you? Sgt. Julio Garcia has given me a new view on serving my country. Sgt. Garcia is one of the most motivated Marines I have met. Sgt. Garcia volunteers to lead training of teens who have been selected to participate in the Devil Pups program; it is a program that works with and pre-

What is your favorite memory? Most Marines would say I’m crazy, but my favorite memory is the Crucible. The Crucible involves marching 52 miles, sleeping less than an hour over three days, eating a single meal and overcoming other obstacles. My mind and body have never been so exhausted, but the feeling of surviving this is unlike any other. What advice do you have for someone thinking about joining the military? For anyone considering the military, I would advise that it is something you want to do for yourself and not because you were pressured or wanting to join the military for a paycheck. In your military career, you will work long hours and face more physical and mental stress than you will in most jobs. Having said that, joining the Marine Corps was one of the greatest decisions I have made and would never take back that decision. The military has allowed me to experience more than I ever could as a civilian and allowed me to develop character. bakersfieldlife.com

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WHY I LIVE HERE

JEFF SALTERS Smokin’ and grillin’ for the community By Shelby Parker Salty’s BBQ Best BBQ Restaurant

with it. Salters was born in Downey, California, and was 4-years-old when his parents moved to Lamont. His mother grew up in Weedpatch, and the rest of his family were Dust Bowlers and farmworkers. “It has always been a great community,” said Salters of his time in Lamont. He described his childhood as the kind of experience you dream about when you’re that young. He spent a lot of time riding his bike all over town late at night with his friends; they all got along and had a good time, and later went to Arvin High School. Now Salters lives in Bakersfield with his wife, Melissa. The two have three sons, Justin, Robert and Scott, who have all played a part in the restaurant. Salters adds that what he loves most about the city is the people in town. With the recent success and attention coming from Guy Fieri’s show, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” Salters and his staff have experienced Bakersfield’s kindness firsthand. The business has had people visit from all over, from places such as Australia, Boston, New York and all have mentioned what a friendly staff Salty’s has, which Salters says is a “microcosm of who Bakersfield is.” What is your favorite place in Bakersfield? We probably go out and eat more than anything! If we’re not at Salty’s, we’re eating someplace. What is your favorite restaurant in Bakersfield? Frugatti’s is one of our favorite restaurants; we go there to have Italian food. We love Mexican food, so we eat at La Mina and Mauricio’s; those are our two “gotta go-to” places. Nothing on anybody else out there – we love you all. Describe your neighborhood My neighborhood is an old neighborhood. My house was built in 1926. It’s a nice, 162

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Jeff Salters, owner of Salty’s BBQ & Catering

quiet neighborhood. We know all of our neighbors. One of the benefits of an old neighborhood is we don’t open a garage door with our remote control and go through our garage door to our house and never see anybody. Every day I wave at somebody and stop and talk to somebody. How would you describe Bakersfield? I kid people and say “Bakersfield: Sun, fun, stay, play,” the old saying. Bakersfield’s a very friendly city, with people who truly care for you – our churches, our people, our non-

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

lthough Jeff Salters, owner of Salty’s BBQ, wasn’t born in Bakersfield, he now claims it as his home and loves the sense of community that comes

profits. When you look at our Relay for Life, our other cancer fundraisers, we give. This is a giving town. We’re a supportive town. What is the best kept secret in Bakersfield? The people. But, now we’re on the market; we’re on this national stage; myself and the other seven or eight restaurants in Bakersfield that are on the show (“Diners, DriveIns and Dives”), people are going to come. As a city, let’s make sure that we’re putting our best foot out.

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A L L- S TA R AT H L E T E

BHS’s Ronnie Stapp battles to get past Buchanan’s Donovan Mitchell in the first half of their playoff game.

PHENOMENAL FRESHMEN Young athletes on equal footing with upperclassmen By Stephen Lynch

or most young athletes, the jump from junior high to the varsity level of high school requires a year or two of additional training and maturation to accomplish. It isn’t easy for a 14- or 15-year-old to compete on equal footing against upperclassmen that are generally, bigger, faster, stronger and more experienced. However, this current school year a handful of local freshmen athletes not only competed at the varsity level of their respective sports, they excelled at it. The class of 2018 has already begun demonstrating some of its immense athletic prowess on the biggest stages of high school sports in the form Bakersfield High’s Ronnie Stapp, Independence’s Kahlaijah Dean and Stockdale’s Jalen Smith.

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PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

People & Community

Stapp, Dean and Smith are just a few shining examples of several Kern County freshmen currently making an impact on the varsity level. This past winter, Stapp stepped right into the BHS boys basketball team’s starting lineup and played like a cagy veteran, averaging 9.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.3 steals per game. “I didn’t really think about the age (of the guys I was competing against),” Stapp said. “I just thought about the skill level. I tried making myself think that I could play with these guys and I kind of did.” The 6-foot-5 shooting guard wasted little time showcasing his sweet shooting touch and all-around skills, scoring 18 points in the Drillers’ season opener. A week later, after helping BHS capture the East High Holiday Classic title, Stapp was named to the four-day event’s alltournament team. Stapp credits his father, Ron, a former Cal State Stanislaus basketball player, and older brother Cody, a basketball standout at BHS in 2008-10, with helping develop his basketball skills. “Going to the park and shooting and doing drills and stuff with them really helped me a lot,” Ronnie said. While Ronnie helped the BHS boys team make the play-

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offs and finish with an overall record of 17-11, Dean pushed the Independence girls basketball team all the way to a Central Section Championship with her stellar play. The defensive-minded guard scored 10.9 points and pulled down 4.1 rebounds per game for a Falcons squad that downed Tollhouse-Sierra for the Division II section title before getting knocked out in the second round of the CIF state playoffs. “During the summer, I play girls that were older than me so I kind of got used to it,” Dean said. Dean got better as the year wore on and the competition heated up. She averaged 13.7 points per game over the final two months of the season. Dean scored a game-high 21 points in the section championship tilt and was chosen as MVP of the game. “It was great,” Dean said. “I’ve worked most my life for this moment. Winning ‘Valley’ was one of the best feelings.” Dean, who surprised even herself by cracking the talentladen Falcons starting five as a freshman, cites her father, Kel, as the major influence in her basketball success at such a young age. “I think it was my dad pushing me all the time,” Kahlaijah said. “At times I would hate it but he showed me the right things. He pushed me to do my greatest. And ever since he’s been pushing, it’s made me play to the best of my ability.” Basketball isn’t the only sport in which local freshman have and currently are demonstrating their varsity-level abilities this school year. The Stockdale varsity baseball team features a double play combination consisting of freshmen in the form of Smith (second base) and Sean Mullen (shortstop). Heading into the start of the Southwest Yosemite League play, Smith was one off the team lead in runs batted in with 10 while posting a .204 batting average.

PHOTO BY NICK ELLIS

Independence’s Kahlaijah Dean, right, passes as Yosemite’s Allie Stearns defends in the first half of the Central Section semifinal game.

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“It’s a little nervous because you want to produce right when you get up there but it’s more like a process,” Smith said. “You’re not going to do good right away. You have to keep grinding to get better every day.” Smith, a defensive standout at second base, has been playing organized baseball since he was 5 years old. Growing up he was part of two different local all-star teams that made it to the World Series of their respective age groups. But now facing some of the top prep baseball players in the state, Smith has had to step up his game in a hurry. “I have had to adjust to everything,” Smith said. “Seeing harder pitching and adjusting to how fast everybody plays. There’s a lot more speed out there. A lot more power.” But echoing the sentiments of Ronnie and Kahlaijah, Smith doesn’t spend much time thinking about the grade level of the people he’s competing against. “I don’t really think about that because to me they’re all basically the same,” Smith said. “It doesn’t really matter your age as long as you can really play.” As Ronnie, Kahlaijah and Smith have already shown, they can definitely play and will be three local high school athletes to keep an eye on over the next few years.

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Jalen Smith has been a standout at second base in his freshman season at Stockdale.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STOCKDALE HIGH SCHOOL

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Daniel H. Chang, M.D.

Joseph H. Chang, M.D.

Vin T. Dang, O.D.

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Castle & Cooke Best New Home Builder

The Shops at River Walk is buzzing with new business and local shoppers wanting to have a part in it.

BUILDING A BEAUTIFUL, DISTINCTIVE COMMUNITY Shops at River Walk meets needs of residents By Gabriel Ramirez

I The new shopping center is brimming with success.

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Photos courtesy of Castle & Cooke

f you haven’t driven down Stockdale Highway recently then you are missing out on all the development. Among the office buildings, shops, restaurants and stores are moving in, including Sprouts Farmers Market, BevMo!, Nordstrom Rack, T.J.Maxx, PizzaRev and DSW. Recently, both BevMo!, a place to buy beverages and so much more, and Sprouts, an indoor farmers market that boasts organic foods along with an array of many other healthy offerings and fresh, natural foods, had their grand openings. “When all the development is completed, people can look forward to a place to gather, to shop, to dine or to just relax at the plaza catching up on emails while sipping a coffee or having a bite to eat,” said Scott Thayer, vice president

One sub-anchor, the Elephant Bar Restaurant, continues to have a following in Bakersfield.

The new development helps complement existing business, such as E Salon|Spa. of Castle & Cooke. “We, as landlord, try to put together a tenant mix that will be complementary to other tenants in the shopping center while at the same time meeting the needs of the trade area in which the center is located.” According to Thayer, the new stores and shops are important to the success of the shopping center. “These stores, plus Target and the numerous dining

establishments in the center – P.F. Chang’s, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery, California Pizza Kitchen, Elephant Bar, Eureka! Burger, Panera Bread, Subway Sandwiches, and PizzaRev – help provide a vibrant experience,” Thayer said. “Most of these sub-anchors have a large following in other cities, so we’re excited to be able to bring them to Bakersfield.”

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• To our Staff • To our School System • To our Loyal Customers • To our many Friends and Family

Kern County for voting us “Best” Physical Therapy Group over the last 7 years!

“Always giving Thanks to God for everything” - Ephesians 5:20

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The evenings and weekends are often busy for dining spots, such as the California Pizza Kitchen.

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If you have visited the shopping center since the two recent grand openings, you will have noticed that the parking lots have been full and the community has come out to support the new shops. “From what we’re hearing, they can’t wait for the other tenants to open,” Thayer said. According to Thayer, with the sub-anchors secured, they have shifted their attention to expanding the tenant mix with a number of smaller tenants to help strengthen the synergy of the center and to make it that gathering place for patrons to shop, dine and even relax a little at one of the tables or benches in the “plaza” after a bike ride or run along the river trail adjacent to The Shops at River Walk. “We already have a tremendous amount of interest in the shopping center, but the key to completing it will be in putting together the tenant mix that will provide the ambiance and shopping experience noted earlier,” Thayer said. “Our desire is to build beautiful, distinctive communities and shopping developments where people want to spend their time, indoors and out. The Shops at River Walk is a prime example of this. Just down the street from The Shops at River Walk are the Castle & Cooke communities of Seven Oaks, Brighton Parks and Village Green.”

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ONLY LAUGHS AT THE GASLIGHT MELODRAMA Local theater celebrates 10 years of making Kern County a star By Miranda Whitworth

t’s a local theater that keeps Kern County front and center, and this year, The Gaslight Melodrama Theatre and Music Hall is marking a major milestone. For the last decade The Gaslight Melodrama has delighted audiences with stories that put Kern County in the spotlight, telling tall tales from the city of Shafter, Oildale and the high deserts. In true melodrama fashion, the plays are campy, kitschy and full of laughter. Gaslight Melodrama owner Linda Larma says when it comes to theater, the audi-

ence is there to have a good time. “It’s very interactive,” said Larma. “You boo the villain and cheer for the hero. It’s like the poor man’s theater. People who aren’t particularly fond of going to plays like our style.” Larma started the theater in August 2005 when the property next to her dance studio came up for sale. It was a natural fit for her as she had been working in the arts for decades as owner of Larma and Daughters Academe of Dance. She bought the space and with the help of family and loyal staff has been producing original plays and vaudevillian style reviews ever since. “Most of our shows are based in Kern County,” she said. According to Larma, “they interest people and the audiences seem to get a kick out of shows that center around Shafter or some of the local landmarks.” Thanks to The Gaslight Melodrama, audiences have been treated to shootouts at Ethel’s Old Corral or a full musical number set at the classic Oildale watering hole, Trout’s. It’s a formula that has set The Gaslight apart from other theaters in town and has kept audiences coming back.

The Otis clan prepares to send off bride-to-be Sue-Ann (Ali Dougherty, center) in “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding,” at Gaslight Melodrama. 172

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL PRINCE

The Gaslight Melodrama Best Community Theater

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL PRINCE

Jennifer Prince and Ali Dougherty in “The New Road to Rosedale,” at The Gaslight Melodrama.

WELCOME NEW PATIENTS Oral & IV Sedation Available Our goal is to help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.

Josh Lubatti as Wolfgang Pluck and Jennifer Prince as hotel manager Carla Calamity in “A Night at the Padre.”

“It’s great to see crowds of all ages,” Larma said. “A lot of older people come to see us but we also see a lot of families. Parents bring their kids because it’s such a fun environment.” With the help of Artistic Director Michael Prince and Musical Director Warren Dobson, The Gaslight has retained a loyal cast of actors and helped young burgeoning stars take their first steps as professionals in the entertainment business. Former stars have moved to Los Angeles for roles in theater productions at Walt Disney theme parks or work in commercial advertising, others have headed to Las Vegas for acting opportunities. In 2010, Larma and her staff produced “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding,” a comedy highlighting the colorful characters of Oildale and the love of family. The show was such a hit, she’s been fielding requests for its return for the last five years. “It was amazing how many people started calling and asking when we’d do it again. I told them for our 10th anniversary it would come back. And here we are, it’s been 10 years and who would have thought?” joked Larma. “My Big Fat Oildale Wedding” runs through May 10 but that’s not the only show on the docket for The Gaslight. “The Legend of Johnny Mojave” is set for later in 2015. Larma says the show will follow the tried-and-true plot that has been delighting her attendees since the beginning. “It’s a Western, and you’ll have your good guy, your bad guy and your heroine,” she said. “And with our shows you know the good guy always wins.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GASLIGHT MELODRAMA

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JANE’S JEWELERS Where Bakersfield Gets Engaged

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Tuesday - Friday 10am-6pm • Saturday 10am-6pm • Closed Sunday & Monday bakersfieldlife.com

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BIKE BAKERSFIELD CELEBRATES BIKE MONTH Local nonprofit promotes bicycling for everyday transportation in our community By Anna C. Smith

Photos by Michale Lopez

ason Cater has been the executive director of the local nonprofit Bike Bakersfield for more than two years now, but he vividly remembers the feeling of freedom that riding a bicycle afforded him as a child. After those training wheels were taken off and he was a bit older, Cater and his brother Daniel were given plenty of independence and responsibility as they wandered through neighborhoods, ventured out, and even rode all the way downtown from their family home in southwest Bakersfield. Jason says that bicycling has always been his way of exploring new places. He explains that a bicyclist can better experience things that one cannot observe when traveling by car. Jason and his brother truly explored and got to know Bakersfield in a deeper way while riding bicycles together.

A Typical Day Now, Jason rides his bicycle to and from work every day, as is to be expected considering his employment. But it feels nothing like an obligation to him. In the mornings, Jason rides through leafy Westchester, where he now lives; heads east on 21st Street, passing by the downtown fire station and the majestic Fox Theater; and up Eye Street through the Arts District – his favorite part of the ride. He often stops at Dagny’s Coffee Co. to grab a coffee and chat with a few people he invariably runs into at the cozy local shop. Lately, he enjoys slowing down a bit to check on the progress of the new Jin Sushi restaurant, opening soon at 19th and Eye streets. Jason says there are new spots popping up downtown regularly, which he enjoys discovering on his trusty blue Trek road bike. He arrives at his office on Chester Avenue mentally and physically prepared for the day. Jason looks forward to this ride to and from work each day. 174

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Executive Director Jason Cater poses inside of Bike Bakersfield’s bike kitchen. The bike kitchen is where people can learn to repair their own bikes.

“I would think most people don’t look forward to their commute; they don’t see it as a valuable part of their day,” he said. “It becomes a dull part of the routine. But my commute energizes me. It doesn’t really feel like a ‘commute’ at all.” While there are certainly significant personal health and environmental benefits, the reason Jason looks forward to his journey to work may just be that it’s, in a word, fun. It is

filled to the brim with interactions on a human scale. For most of his ride, the streets are narrow, plenty of pedestrians are out and he can interact with those around him while on his bike or easily hop off to chat – Jason’s commute is a collective experience shared with those around him, and he loves it. Jason appreciates that he uses his commute time to socialize, experience his surroundings, and

exercise all at one time. He finds bicycling so much more than an enjoyable weekend hobby; to him, his commute by bike is a fun and efficient use of precious time in his daily life.

Bike Bakersfield’s Mission As the director of Bike Bakersfield, Jason enjoys sharing his passion for bicycling with locals. He finds it especially rewarding to help

children navigate safe bicycle routes to school, giving them the same freedom and exercise he enjoyed as a child. Through educational programs, events and advocacy, the goal of Bike Bakersfield is to see more people enjoy the benefits of a safe, healthy and vibrant community by making bicycling part of their everyday lives. As Jason explains, we are all instinctively drawn to human-scaled environments.

Those behind Bike Bakersfield promote human-scaled development and design in Kern County with the ultimate goal of happier, healthier residents. Jason is encouraged by his millennial generation’s tendency toward the collaborative and communal; he hopes this will bode well for Bike Bakersfield’s efforts in the future.

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Continued from page 175 Vision for the Future Through Bike Bakersfield, Jason is optimistic that we will see the organization continue to grow. He hopes to see the group host the first official “bike party” in Bakersfield; establish even more Safe Routes to School programs and bicycle education courses for companies; encourage more employers to institute health and wellness biketo-work programs; urge the city and county to institute more bicyclefriendly infrastructure improvements, including bike lanes and recreational paths; develop a local bike-station-on-wheels to attend schools and businesses for programs and events; see Bike Bakersfield’s influence expand throughout Kern County; and more. Visit BikeBakersfield.org for more information including a complete calendar of events.

Bike Month events As part of National Bike Month, Bike Bakersfield will host four rides and a bike festival. Full Moon Ride (family friendly): Saturday, May 2 Joyriders Ride: Saturday, May 9 Cyclofemme Ride (women only): Sunday, May 10 Bike Month Festival: Saturday, May 16 Ride of Silence (to honor bicyclists who have been killed in Kern County): Wednesday, May 20

Executive Director Jason Cater of Bike Bakersfield rides his bike to and from work every day. He usually rides through the Westchester community.

Serving Kern County For Over 50 Years

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Wire Coils

New & Used Pipe

Additional Benefits of Invisalign with Drs. Montano & Cardall: • Same cost as braces • TOP 1% of North America • Specialists in Orthodontics • iTero scanner = no gooey molds • No-Interest Financing

Visit us to see why Drs. Montano & Cardall are the only Top 1% Invisalign providers in the Kern County/Central Valley area.

Call 665-7600 or visit MontanoCardall.com 176

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Today Cleaners Best Dry Cleaner

Today Cleaners’ carhop service saves customers time, whether they are dropping off or picking up.

NOT YOUR ORDINARY DRY CLEANER Today Cleaners designed for convenience of customers By Gloria Saldivar

Photos by Mark Nessia

oday Cleaners is not an ordinary dry cleaner. It goes above and beyond to deliver the best possible dry cleaning and laundry service to its customers. Today Cleaners is a local family-owned business with 10 locations serving the Bakersfield community. It started off as Sparkle Uniform and Linen Service over 65 years ago in Taft. Sparkle Uniform and Linen Service diversified and moved into the Bakersfield area, opening its first location on Ming Avenue and New Stine Road with the name Today Cleaners in 1986. Since then, Today Cleaners has expanded greatly, keeping its customers in mind. Jeff Newman Jr., third-generation president of the company said, “Everything is designed for the convenience of customers.” Some of the services Today Cleaners offers are same-day service seven days a week, fast carhop service, 24-hour drop boxes and more. One of the many things that sets Today Cleaners apart from its competition is its GreenEarth cleaning system. It is environmentally friendly and the most gentle dry cleaning available in Bakersfield. Today Cleaners customers also receive two free express bags, which they can use to drop off their clothing at any time in the 24-hour drop box. This makes it convenient for customers with busy schedules. Newman said, “Whatever you’re going to do, do it well.” For a complete list of all services and locations, visit todaycleaners.com. 178

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Today Cleaners' employees can press an average of 50 items an hour.

The dry cleaning machines can clean approximately 40 items per load and utilizes the GreenEarth Cleaning System, a nontoxic, environmentally-friendly solvent.

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Juana Romero preps a shirt to be steamed and pressed.

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The press steams and presses shirts in a quick and efficient manner.

The puffer steams shirt sleeves, leaving them soft and wrinkle free. bakersfieldlife.com

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The Beale Park Amphitheater. Construction began in 1907.

THE GENEROUS TRUXTUN BEALE Library, clock tower, park all gifts to Bakersfield community By Ken Hooper

ruxtun Beale gave Kern County the Beale Memorial Clock Tower in honor of his mother, the Beale Memorial Library in the name of his father and Beale Park for the people of Bakersfield. The cities of Visalia, Paso Robles, Porterville and San Luis Obispo received one of the 1,679 Carnegie libraries from famed philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Bakersfield, a smaller and younger city than these municipalities, received its first library through a generous donation from Truxtun Beale, the namesake for Truxtun Avenue in Bakersfield and owner of the famed Tejon Ranch. Kern County was a young county, having been established in 1866, when the literary society movement reached

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into this county. In the western United States, the literary societies would be the organizations that would be push for the establishment of the free library systems. Kern County would be no different. Truxtun Beale was the only son of Mary and Gen. Edward Fitzgerald Beale. Among other accomplishments, Gen. Beale would garner national fame in 1848 by carrying to the eastern United States the first gold that set off the California gold rush, and founding Tejon Ranch in 1854. His son, Truxtun Beale, named for his grandfather Commodore Thomas Truxtun, served in the United States State Department in the early 1890s as a consul general to Persia (now the country of Iran) and Greece. Upon the death of Gen. Beale in 1893, Truxtun Beale inherited the Tejon Ranch and subsequently sold the ranch in 1912. The San Francisco Call newspaper carried the announcement of the generous donation on Aug. 19, 1899: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Truxtun Beale, let a contract today to R. S. Aston to build a Beale memorial library at the corner of Chester Avenue and 17th Street Bakersfield. The building will be of the mission style, 42x80 feet. The walls will be of brick, plastered in imitation of adobe. The roof will be of genuine Spanish tiles. The contract price is $7,270. It is being erected as a monument to the memory of Gen. E. F. Beale, who left a large estate in this county, including the Tejon, Castac and Liebere grants.â&#x20AC;?

The final cost of the Beale Library was nearly $10,000. After Mary Beale’s death on April 6, 1902, her son, Truxtun Beale, announced to the city of Bakersfield on Dec. 23, 1902, a tremendous Christmas gift to complement the recently completed library, a large clock tower. Many Railroad Avenue business owners wanted the clock tower placed in the middle of the intersection of Railroad Avenue (now Truxtun Avenue) and Truxtun Beale Chester Avenue. The Daily Californian newspaper reported on Dec. 16, 1903, that the City of Bakersfield Trustees decided to place the large clock tower in the intersection of Chester Avenue and 17th Street. They thought “ … that such location would best suit Mr. Beale, it being a matter of sentiment with him to have the tower close to the memorial library.” On Dec. 22, 1903, Railroad Avenue was renamed Truxtun Avenue and Truxtun Beale’s comments were carried in the Daily Californian:

The Beale Memorial clocktower.

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Continued from page 181 “This is the first opportunity I have had to thank you and the citizens of Bakersfield for the great honor you have done me by naming one of your avenues after one of my ancestors. It will always be gratifying to me to have my name so perpetuated, but what is far more valuable to me is the assurance that it gives me of your good opinion and good will. “For many years I felt a strong attachment for this city, indeed I could say I almost inherited it, and I shall never cease to take a deep interest in the welfare and fame of this place with which by your kindness my name is now associated. “Very Respectfully, Truxtun Beale.” After the Bakersfield and Kern Electric Railway Company completed the moving of 236 feet of trolley tracks at an expense of $700, C.J. Lindgren’s construction company was able to complete the clock tower by the spring of 1904. In 1907, Truxtun Beale announced the donation of five acres of land off of Oleander Avenue and Dracena Street for the construction of Bakersfield’s first city park – named Beale Park. The donation included materials for the landscaping, swimming pool and a Greek theater for shows. While the Beale Clock Tower has been moved to the grounds of the Kern County Museum and the original Beale Library has been replaced by the modern Beale Library in 1988, Beale Park lives on for the enjoyment of the community.

Kern County Historical Society The programs of the Kern County Historical Society are held monthly between September and May, with the exception of December. The programs feature speakers on subjects pertaining to county history, historical sites and Kern County lore. All programs and field trips are open to members and guests. We are always looking for new members interested in Kern County History!

For more information on membership and details on programs, visit our website at kchistoricalsociety.org Spring 2015 Programs May 16 – Saturday Mining and Archaeology in Keyesville and Loraine By Amy Girado

Kern Veteran’s Oral History Project Become part of history one more time! The Kern Veteran’s Oral History Project is designed and created for veterans of any age and any branch of service, whether combat experienced or not, to tell their story of their service to our country. If you have a story we are ready to listen.

The Kern Veterans Oral History Project is a coordinated project between the Kern County Historical Society, Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter #604, Bakersfield High School’s CEO Academy students and KGET TV 17. Contact the Kern County Historical Society at: kchs1931@gmail.com

The B.H.S. Quarterback Club and Coach Paul Golla invite you to attend the Tenth Annual

Driller Football Hall of Fame Thursday, May 21, 2015 Marriott Hotel Ballroom 801 Truxtun Ave. Bakersfield, CA 6:00 PM Social, 7:00 PM Dinner, 8:00 PM Ceremony

2015 Inductees:

#1 in California... Driller Pride

Mike Butcher The Dewar Family Ryan Hansen Msgr. Craig Harrison Larry Parker Willie Sandoval James Wofford John Wyatt

Also being recognized: Our Valley Championship Teams (1951, 1954, 1955) and 36 Valley Championships and 8 State Championships

$125.00 per person/$1250 table sponsor (10 seats) Tickets available at BHS Student Activities Bldg. Checks only! For additional information please call:

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June 8 -11, 2015 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Children ages 7-17 who have lost a loved one are invited to attend this year’s Heart Art Summer Camp.

Activities include:

Arts & Crafts, Games and more

For more information and to register visit hoffmannhospice.org or call Maureen at 661.410.1010

Associated with Dignity Health

Give our kids every chance to get better.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE THE MIRACLES ARE.

JENNIFER LOPEZ ACTRESS, MUSICIAN, TV PERSONALITY, MOM

Like all moms, I’m always concerned about my children’s well-being. But sometimes they get sick. Sometimes they get hurt. That’s why I’m so grateful we have children’s hospitals. If any child needs a miracle, they’ll do everything in their power to make one happen. Please join me in giving sick and injured children every chance to get better. Put Your Money Where the Miracles Are. Give to your Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local, fundiing critical treatments, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Find out why children’s hospitals need community support and find your member hospital at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Give Today CMNHospitals.org

to Lauren Small Children’s Medical Center at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital bakersfieldlife.com

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POWER COUPLE

DAVID AND JULIE WOMACK

PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

College sweethearts find early love

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hen you know, you know. It’s a phrase that can be applied to almost anything in life but for David Womack, executive director of Kaiser Permanente, it applied to his special someone, Julie. After meeting in college through friends, the two instantly clicked and became best friends. It’s been nearly 36 years and the couple continues to grow and learn from each other every day. “I knew David was the one when I realized he was in my life to stay and that I could truly love my best friend,” said Julie, licensed occupational therapist.

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What’s your partner’s best quality? Julie: David’s integrity, honor and amazing leadership skills. I learn from him every day. My favorite quality is his outward appearance is all business but he really has a wicked sense of humor. David: Julie is interested in everything and everybody she meets. She has a remarkable ability to visualize potential – she sees it in people, organizations, vacant lots, crummy old houses … you name it. She is an idealist in spirit and a realist in thought. She can bounce back from any disappointment and carry on. She has taught me that there are always options in any situation.

How did you know your partner was the one? David: I remember asking my dad when I was about 12 years old how I could be sure about asking the right girl to marry me. He told me, “When you know, you know.” He was right. Within about three weeks of dating Julie, I knew that I knew she was the one. I took another couple of weeks to pop the question because I wanted to ask her on Valentine’s Day – just as my father had proposed to my mother in honor of his sage advice.

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What are you most proud of about your partner? David: Julie raised four wonderful kids and earned her occupational therapy degree at the same time – before she started, the faculty told her it was impossible and that she would fail. Throughout our many moves, Julie bloomed wherever she was planted – she has made lasting friendships and left each community better than she found it. She improved the lives of her patients and when she managed a geriatric psychiatric unit, her staff grew under her leadership. She is a cancer survivor. She is the most awesome Mimi to our five grandkids. What activities do you enjoy doing together? Both: We both have very busy lives with long hours, so being lazy is a real luxury. What is your secret to a happy marriage? Julie: Try not to get tired of each other! Be high mileage – experience as much in life as possible. Never make good time – try to live life off the interstate and take as many side trips as possible on the journey. David: Friendship and enjoying each other’s company have been essential for us. I believe couples must be committed to growing and changing together. People change and life is uncertain. It’s easy to move in different directions. You have to recalibrate occasionally to be on the same trajectory.

5100 California Ave., Ste 101, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Office: 661.864.7826 | www.beldenblaine.com

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PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA

Log Cabin Florist Best Florist

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A BLOOMING CAREER Florist’s passion draws her back to the field By Lisa Ybarra

fter attempting to retire from the floral industry eight years ago, Cheri Fitton found herself drawn back to her passion when she was asked to work as general manager and designer for Log Cabin Florist by owner Dawn Baumgarten. Fitton has worked as a florist for over 40 years. She attended Porterville Junior College and majored in art. While searching for a part-time job, Fitton soon found herself as a floral designer, which turned into a successful career. She went to school for jewelry making but decided to become a floral designer because she would make more money and could find a job right here in the valley. Fitton was able to apply what she had studied in college to floristry because the same principles of design are used in any type of artistic work. Lois Reagan, who was Fitton’s mentor, gave her, her first job when she was 21. She was a great influence during Fitton’s early design experience. Reagan taught her about commercial floral design, public relations and the floral industry as a whole. Part of Fitton’s job is to consult with customers and “try to interpret what they want in flowers,” she said. Arrangements that are most special for Fitton to create are custom memorial pieces. These particular pieces reflect the family’s loved one’s personality. “I recently did a memorial piece for Oldenkamp (Trucking). It was a semitruck made out of flowers with a big milk tanker,” said Fitton. Her favorite type of arrangement to design is called a vegetative arrangement, which is a com— Cheri Fitton bination of fresh flowers and vegetables. She finds inspiration from other designers. There are exclusive networking groups that consist of professional florists from around the world. They can share information with each other about new trends, colors and where certain products are available. “It’s an unusual industry because we share information with each other even though we’re competitors – the customer comes first,” said Fitton. Her artistic style is “to create what the customer wants.” Because we are in a remote area for product availability, the most challenging thing she finds about being a floral designer is obtaining the product the customer desires. As the spring and summer seasons arrive, Fitton noted that the most popular flowers are bulb flowers, tulips, freesia, ranunculus, iris, hydrangeas and her personal favorite the tuberose. “What I love most about being a floral designer is that it is never the same two days in a row,” Fitton said.

“

It’s an unusual industry because we share information with each other even though we’re competitors – the customer comes first.

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PRIME FINDS

Love blooms for mom A handmade gift for mom or grandma is always the most precious keepsake. Declare your love for her on a ceramic flower pot, vase, picture frame, platter or mug. Color Me Mine at the Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave., 664-7366, bakersfield.colormemine

Fun on your feet Victoria’s must-have nautical flip-flops by Brighton are only $48. Open seven days a week. Victoria’s in the Marketplace. 9000 Ming Ave., K-4. 665-8300 Facebook.com/ShopAtVictorias

Make a statement One of a kind, captivating and precious. Those words can be used to describe the Treska and Adra Turquoise jewelry available at Sugardaddy’s. Prices starting at only $22. Visit facebook.com/sugardaddys or stop by Sugardaddy’s Ladies Fashion, 5512 Stockdale Highway. 325-8300.

Center of attention Brighten any room with this beautiful wall hanging. Two sizes are available: 38x30 or 58x18. Get yours today at 50 percent off. We also have 1,700 different custom framing samples to choose from at Frameworks, 1020 18th St., 334-8000. Visit us at our website: bakersfield-pictureframer.com

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The Boys and Girls Club of Kern Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Backyard Ribbon Cutting Date: April 2 Held at The Boys & Girls Club Armstrong Youth Center Photos by Casey Christie View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Music Fusion

Meagan Tripp and Arnie Sutherlin

Jill Burdick and Frank Sierra

Ana Martinez and Tyler Hamilton

Maggie Cushine and Orlando Trevino

Theresa Mendez, April Ahart and Renee Stancil

Nima Farokhirad, Cayla Johnson, Ronnie Ram, Ann Patel, Olga Aguirre and Catie Holsonbake

877.314.7511 BakersfieldHyundai.com

CBCC Bunco Night

Shirley Pike

Charlotte Marengo and Sandy Wheeler

Terri Eiker and Krista Rainwater

Date: April 2 Held at Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center Photos by Jan St Pierre View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Donald and Denise Mackay

Marnell McNutt and Diane McKinley

Al and Debora Wilson

Sindie Elliott and Debbie Angeroth

877.314.7511 BakersfieldHyundai.com

Bakersfield West Rotary's Cioppino Feed Date: April 6 Held at Garces Memorial High School Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Greg Osbourne and Vickie Raisler

Greg and Carol Brott

Cindy and Geraud Smith and Darren and Jeanette Redstone Monica and Marco Amavizca

Riverlakes Community Center Tues, Thur 9:00am Sat, 8:30am

Uniglobe Travel Tues, Thurs 5:30pm

For more info:

589-8950 or Jazzercise.com

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Greenacres Community Center

Richard and Suzan Smith, Anita and Dave Cook

Nancy Lee, Linda Dane, Donna and Bill Roberts

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CASA Superhero Run Date: April 11 Held at Park at River Walk Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Amy Metzner and Bethel Mathews

Hermelinda Mendoza and Angelica Avila

Melanie Perkins, Anthony Fortner and Katrina and David Perkins April and Jim Mitchell and Alicia and Gavin Rice

Yolanda Martinez, Tessa Roughton and Acelma Chandler

Mary Vargas and Irma Rocha

Dani O’Donnell, Robert DaLessio, Kobe and Sasha

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DAILY SPECIALS AVAILABLE WWW.SHOPLUIGIS.COM

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Everything served in Luigi’s Restaurant Can be purchased in our delicatessen

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725 EAST 19TH STREET 322-0926

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ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Arvy and Nicky Simpson, Scott Berry and Mercedes Thayer

877.314.7511 BakersfieldHyundai.com

Bakersfield Symphony Date: April 11 Held at Rabobank Theater Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Jim and Tricia Johnson

Virginia and Marvin Belcher

Kyle and Claire Smizer-Muldoon and Cynthia and Chris Smizer Bryan Burrow and Carole and Ira Cohen

Audrey Barger, Myrna Melling and Margo Jones

Londy Chung, Cassie Jue and Mimi Lim

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 bakersfieldlife.com

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BC Red & White Knight Date: April 9 Held at Imbibe Wine & Spirit Merchants Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Endee and Chris Grijalva

Steven and Loree Holmes

Pat and Karen Thompson, Diane Torrigiani and Keith Brogan

Bobby and Kimberly Bligh and Angela Paquette

Sonya Christian, Sandra Serrano and Tom Gelder

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Heidi and Bob Allison, Pam and Ken Byrum and Tom Alexander

INCENTIVES available up to

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$2600!

FINANCING OAC · CREDIT CARDS WELCOME

(661-322-2665) · Estamos Aqui Para Servirle · Locally Owned & Operated · CA Lic #297547

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Tracy Hall and Dave Powell

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Country & Craft Beer Festival

Sophia and Marcus Hackler

Jasmin Perez, Elizabeth Hernandez and Silvia Montejano

Date: April 11 Held at Mill Creek Park Photos by Greg Nichols View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.

Matt Owen, Allison Escovedo, Matt Erbes, Macee McCreery and Jordan Kehoe John Hayes, Cordelia McCarthy, and Julie Noble

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Nikka Cabello, Aaron Gonzales, Chad Marlow, Aubree Lou Gonzales and Brittany Lopez.

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Daniel Reynolds, Greg Rodriguez, Sunny Morehead and James Marin

Thanks for your Votes!

La Rosa Fruit Bars are not only a tasty way to enjoy a nice warm day – but they make a wonderfully nutritious addition to company picnics, fundraisers, family events, school functions...simply every occasion! Now serving the Central Coast. t 'SFTI /BUVSBM 'SVJUT t 1SFNJVN *OHSFEJFOUT t %JSFDU %FMJWFSZ t )BOENBEF %BJMZ t "TTPSUFE 'MBWPST t 4QFDJBM PSEFST XFMDPNF

“Fresh is our main ingredient!”

Family Owned est. 1980

1317 Niles Street www.larosafruitbars.com 661-323-6877 bakersfieldlife.com

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People & Community

LAST WORD

By Cheryl Scott

THE BEST OF BAKERSFIELD Best memories, best relationships, best people come from the best town

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It does not take long for friendships to grow deep roots here in Bakersfield.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

hey call me the dot connector in my office. I enjoy connecting the who, why, how and the with whom of today and yesterday. In my business (economic development), that can come in pretty handy. The best part for me, personally, is the vibrant tapestry those connections create. The people of Bakersfield are a tight-knit bunch; I experience it and I hear people talk about it all the time. These relationships and the community character they form are the very reason I love Bakersfield and Kern County so much! Lately, I’ve been studying my family’s history and writing down some of their memories. We already had the basic family tree information; I was in search of the backstory. Interviewing family members and learning what it was like for them in the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s has helped me better understand my family, but it has also highlighted what makes this area special. Like so many others in Bakersfield, my family came west from Oklahoma. My great grandfather, William Cunningham, was born in Bakersfield in 1878 and he died in Bakersfield in 1965. To clarify, he was born in Bakersfield, Missouri, and died in Bakersfield, California! He and his wife came here via Eufaula, Oklahoma, to plant a church in the early 1940s. Their daughter and her husband (my grandparents) followed suit in 1946 with four children in tow. Back then, people came here for lots of different reasons. My grandparents brought their children here because their young daughter needed the care of a heart specialist in Los Angeles. One of the most interesting discoveries during my research is the lifelong friendships developed from the moment these folks came to Kern County. For example, the man who helped my dad through the recent loss of my mother is the same man who served as best man in their wedding nearly 54 years ago – the same person who used to hot rod with him through local streets in the 1950s; the same person who, as a child, lived at the same farm labor camp in Lamont. Fast-forward to my life, and I’ve got my own special, lifelong friendships! I grew up in rural Kern County, but one of my best high school friends lives one block from me here in Bakersfield, and many others are just a couple miles Cheryl Scott away. Some of us play bunco together every month, along with a host of “newer” friends who are now intricately woven into our lives. Of course, it’s

not all about the fun and games. Living in a caring community means friends, old and new, will be there when you need them. I can attest to that. Natives and new residents alike know it’s not just the childhood friendships that bloom into long-lasting bonds. Not here in Bakersfield. We welcome newcomers and new friends with a smile and a warm embrace. It doesn’t take long for a friendship to grow deep roots here in our community. That’s what I think is best about Bakersfield.