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September 2014
Latination Art show celebrates sixth year
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The Bakersfield Woman 6 women who make our community better
2014 fall fashions Local boutiques show their stuff
Kern Gives Help a charity win $10K
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F E A T U R E S September 2014
Fall into fashion Stay classy this autumn with gorgeous looks from local boutiques and salons.
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Kern Gives Find out how you can help your favorite charity win $10,000 from Pacific Gas and Electric with the click of a mouse.
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The Bakersfield Woman Six inspiring women who exemplify the very best of Bakersfield.
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Local artists Readers’ doodles, drawings, paintings and more.
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Latination First Friday’s biggest annual attraction turns six with a bang.
PHOTO BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
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Clarification Those who are interested in running or hiking along Rancheria Road should park in the public parking lot near the river about a quarter of a mile off Highway 178.
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Reyna Halpin is gussied up for fall with an outfit and accessories from Get Dressed Boutique.
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S TA F F S H A R E S
“WHO’S YOUR FAVORITE ARTIST?” “It’s a toss up between Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo. I love how her work interprets her personal experiences and how Diego’s murals offer political and historical context into early Mexico.” — Olivia Garcia, editor “I love Van Gogh. ‘Starry Night’ is my favorite. I love the dimension his brush strokes give to his art, and his skies always seem to be in perpetual motion.” — Linda Petree, advertising account executive “There’s a certain beauty in suffering, and nobody does suffering like Frida Kahlo. Famous for her signature unibrow, her surreal self-portraits reveal a dynamic woman with a profoundly tortured soul.” — Diana Greenlee, contributor
block of stone into a beautifully expressive sculpture…wow!” — Chris Thornburgh, contributor “I love Jack Terry paintings and how he captures life as it once was: the heart of the old American cowboy with the freedom on his horse while living a hard, yet simple way of life.” — Tamarra Harms, real estate account executive “Locally, David Gordon. His paintings of familiar scenes around town transport me to those moments in time and places when I was younger growing up in Bakersfield. He captures the locals with rich texture, almost as if he is painting with the earth’s clay.” — Lisa Kimble, contributor “My significant other, Philip Guiry. I love the humor in his work, and that he once moved across the country by selling about 80 paintings for $20 each.” — Rachel Cook, assistant editor
“One of my favorite artist is David Garibaldi. His art inspires me to create, and he puts on some really fun shows. I hope to see him paint live one day.” — Alana Garrett, intern
“I have a tremen“I will always dous amount of love the eccentric respect for photogra“A Mermaid,” by John Andy Warhol. His phers who specialize William Waterhouse pop art paintings are in areas like food and so colorful and sports because they made a big statement back in the ‘60 excel in fields that are commonly and ‘70s and continue to do so today. thought of as ‘easy.’” — Mark Nessia, His work makes me happy.” — Hillary contributor Haenes, specialty publications coordinator “My favorite artist is Andrew Wyeth. I love the way he captures the beauty of “John William Waterhouse has to be pedestrian subject matter, creating still my favorite. His style and representalifes from everyday objects.” — Melissa tions of classical female characters Whitten, contributor have an immense power.” — Miranda Whitworth, contributor “I don’t have a favorite artist but I like: Pablo Picasso’s intensity; Salvador “Out of the many artists, past and Dali’s magic; Wassily Kandinsky’s current, Michelangelo moves me to music on the canvas; Georgia tears ... Michelangelo’s unfinished O’Keeffe’s American-ness; Marc piece, The Awakening Slave, is aweChagall’s whimsy; Frida Kahlo’s pain.” some. To see how he transformed a — Louis Medina, contributor 10
Bakersfield Life Magazine
September 2014
Bakersfield’s Premier City Magazine September 2014 / Vol. 8 / Issue 12
Bakersfield Life™ magazine is published by The Bakersfield Californian. The magazine is inserted into The Bakersfield Californian on the last Saturday of every month. To subscribe, please call 392-5777. To advertise, contact Lisa Whitten at lwhitten@bakersfield.com or 395-7563. Publisher Ginger Moorhouse President/CEO Richard Beene Senior Vice President Revenue and Marketing John Wells Vice President, Administration and Operations Nancy Chaffin Interactive Sales Manager Gunter Copeland Advertising Sales Manager Lisa Whitten Advertising Traffic Manager Shauna Rockwell Distribution and Marketing Representative Patrick Wells Editor Olivia Garcia Assistant Managing Editor Rachel Cook Specialty Publications Coordinator Hillary Haenes Art Director Glenn Hammett Graphic Designer Allison Escobar Photography Felix Adamo, Judy Alfter, Sally Baker, Makenzie Barefield, Henry A. Barrios, Holly Carlyle, Casey Christie, Gregory D. Cook, Amy Edmonson, John Harte, Tanya X. Leonzo, Michael Lopez, Mark Nessia, Greg Nichols, Carla Rivas, Jan St Pierre, Rod Thornburg Contributing writers Sally Baker, Jorge Barrientos, Emily Claffy, Gregory D. Cook, Heather Frank, Diana Greenlee, Ken Hooper, Lisa Kimble, Katie Kirschenmann, Stephen Lynch, Kevin McCloskey, Louis Medina, Mark Nessia, Melissa Peaker-Whitten, Jeff Pickering, Leigh Pozas, Chris Thornburgh, Miranda Whitworth Interns Elizabeth Castillo, Alana Garrett, Zach Esparza On the cover Photograph by Michael Lopez. Norma Rojas-Mora is one of the six inspiring women highlighted in our Bakersfield woman feature. Rojas-Mora is the resident service coordinator for the Kern County Housing Authority and the executive director of the Housing and Opportunity Foundation of Kern County.
EDITOR’S NOTE
CONTRIBUTORS
Becky Lewis has lived in Kern County all her life. She grew up in the country on the outskirts of Shafter where her parents raised her, her three sisters and a cousin who is more like a brother. She graduated from Shafter High in 2000, met her husband, Steve, and moved to Bakersfield. Lewis has been happily married for 10 years and has beautiful children, Ash, 8, and 3-year-old twins Madison and Mason. Lewis began working at The Bakersfield Californian as a circulation clerk. In February 2013 she accepted a position as major retail account executive in the sales department. Lewis calls the move “the best career decisions I have made.” She is honored to work with an amazing team of sales reps, support staff, artists and wonderful customers. Although she was born in Oakland, Bakersfield Life intern Elizabeth Castillo considers Bakersfield her hometown. After graduating from Bakersfield High School, Elizabeth studied in Boston and London. She is currently a journalism student at Bakersfield College. She hopes to earn a degree from Cal State Northridge in broadcast journalism and ultimately work in radio. When Castillo isn’t studying, working or writing, she feeds her Netflix and Wikipedia addictions. She enjoys going to live concerts and listening to great music in venues of all sizes. She can’t wait for her next trip to the Bay area when she can spend time with her family and enjoy her older brother’s phenomenal cooking.
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THE BAKERSFIELD WOMAN
A
few months ago, Assistant Editor Rachel Cook and I ran across an interesting article in Garden & Gun Magazine that described the Southern Woman.
Writer Allyson Glock wrote, “To be born a Southern woman is to be made aware of your distinctiveness. And with it, the rules. The expectations. These vary some, but all follow the same basic template, which is, fundamentally, no matter what the circumstance, Southern women make the effort. Which is why even the girls in the trailer parks paint their nails. And why overstressed working moms still bake three dozen homemade cookies for the school fund-raiser. And why you will never see Reese Witherspoon wearing sweatpants. Or Oprah take a nap.” Reading the article reminded us of the Bakersfield Woman and inspired us to produce a feature that captures our local women as part of our Women’s issue this month. Here you will learn about a group of women who represent different layers of the fabric that shapes the Bakersfield Woman. And what I’ve learned defines a Bakersfield Woman is that she is giving and an advocate. She puts aside her needs in favor of helping others because that’s what Bakersfield women do. She is strong and tough. The summer heat won’t stop her from taking care of her children, husband, parents, her home, friends and work, all the while looking styled and like she hasn’t busted a sweat. The chilly fall and winter won’t sway her from spending hours outdoors at her son or daughter’s soccer tournament or football game. Her loud cheers and applause keep her warm just fine. She is beautiful throughout and shares it through her laughter, her wisdom and the generations, passing on recipes and cooking secrets. The Bakersfield woman is also fiercely loyal and dedicated in her profession and causes. She stands by her family and her community, especially when others try to crack a joke about her town. I think you get the point, but find out more about what characterizes a Bakers-
September 2014
field woman by reading about the beautiful ladies who grace our pages this month.
LATINATION This month, we also pay tribute to the local art scene. Through our annual sponsorship with Metro Galleries, we introduce you to the return of Latination, a juried art exhibit that kicks off with a special celebration on First Friday Sept. 5. Don Martin has been working hard on growing the event, as it’s become a favorite annual community gathering and celebration in downtown Bakersfield. Take a peek inside at what he has to say and some of the art featured over the years.
FOR THE FASHION MINDED Another fabulous section to check out is one dedicated to local fashion. Our fall fashion and beauty trends sections offers great style ideas for the in vogue individuals in our town. Take a look and find what’s missing in your closet.
PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO
A South High graduate, Felix Adamo is The Bakersfield Californian's chief photographer. A self-taught photographer, Adamo got his start shooting motorcycle races for the national publication Cycle News in the late 1970s. He later attended Bakersfield College where he was a photographer and the photo editor for the The Renegade Rip, the student newspaper, and the Raconteur, the college year book. Starting at the Californian in 1979, Adamo has gone through the many changes of newspaper photography, from manual focus cameras to the current breed of high-resolution digital cameras. In his off time, he works on personal projects, which can be viewed at adamopictures.com, two of which resulted in solo exhibitions at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. His photographs are in private collections throughout the west. Adamo is also the photographer for The Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra. And he still rides motorcycles.
Olivia Garcia Editor 395-7487 • ogarcia@bakersfield.com
UP FRONT
WORD ON THE STREET Compiled by Rachel Cook
WHAT ARE THE DEFINING QUALITIES OF A BAKERSFIELD WOMAN? "Integrity, hardworking, loving, caring and responsible." — Erin Howlett
"Stick-to-it-iveness. To stay here takes a lot of fortitude; you have to enjoy the heat." — Toni Lott
"They're down to earth … What you see is what you're gonna get." — John Carter
"Very family-oriented, hard working and caring." — Sabrina Gill
"Hard working and tough." — Marcelo Rodriguez
"Determination." — Judith Chavez
"Professionalism. I know many women, including my boss, who are at the head of professional institutions in town." — Randal Beeman
"They are no-nonsense, asskicking women, but they're some of the most giving (nurturing) women I've come across." — April Ferdinand
"I say how they raise their children primarily. How good they raise their children." — Randy Carey
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UP FRONT
THE BIG PICTURE Photo by Gregory D. Cook
ROUND ‘EM UP With the sun low on the horizon, 14-year-old Camryn Long guides her horse into position to separate a cow from its herd during a ranch sorting competition on Aug. 1 at Rancho Rio Stables. Ranch sorting is a timed event that challenges competitors to move 10 head of cattle, one at a time, in specific order from one pen to another. Rancho Rio Stables, located at the base of the Panorama Bluffs off Manor Drive, hosts ranch sorting competitions every Friday evening.
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September 2014
bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
NAMED AFTER By Lisa Kimble
B
essie Owens, the distinguished educator for whom the Owens Primary and Intermediate schools are named after, was regarded as a trailblazer for women, a master at her beloved profession of teaching and one of our city's most honored instructors. The diminutive teacher instructed by example, quietly, gracefully and lovingly. For half a century, she reigned in rambunctious students without so much as a cross word, using a mighty glance and well-earned respect instead. Bessie Evans Owens, the oldest of eight children, was born in Rockville, Indiana, on Aug. 25, 1884 to Jessie and Martha Evans. Defying the conventional expectations of the time, she graduated from Ball State University Teachers College and did graduate work at Indiana University, Chicago University and Michigan State. She took her first teaching job in 1918 in East Chicago, Indiana, just months before the end of World War I. She was East Chicago's first African American teacher, and her starting annual salary was $850. She married Homer Owens and spent 34 years teaching in Indiana, retiring as principal in 1952. That same year Bessie, by then a widow, decided to move to Kern County to be closer to a friend. She planned to open a gift shop in Bakersfield. But although the teacher had left the classroom, the classroom had not left the retired teacher, and Owens came out of retirement in 1956, at the age of 72, when the Bakersfield City School District assigned her to Potomac
Bessie Owens Primary School's choir and Bobcats Stomp Team walk to perform at Bessie Owens Intermediate School's African-American Celebrate Heritage Assembly.
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September 2014
PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
BESSIE E. OWENS SCHOOLS
School where she taught for seven years. She retired again in 1963. But again, retirement would be brief. Owens became increasingly concerned about the educational needs of disadvantaged children, and in 1964, she was lured back into the classroom. She taught at Casa Loma and Colonel Baker schools and worked as a substitute instructor until her third and final retirement in 1967. Although Owens was no longer in the classroom, she wasn't finished contributing to the betterment of education. In 1970, then-president Richard Nixon appointed Owens to serve on the Presidential Commission for the Employment of the Handicapped. The appointment took her into uncharted waters as the nation's policies regarding the handicapped and disabled were in their infancy. The following year — 21 years after Potomac School was built — the Bakersfield Bessie Owens City School District renamed the school to honor Owens, who by all accounts had a demonstrative and lasting impact on her students and their families. The renaming was a first. Today, Bessie E. Owens Primary School is a G.A.T.E. and magnet school for grades kindergarten through third, and the Owens Intermediate School includes grades fourth through sixth. Bessie Owens died in 1987 in East Chicago, Indiana where she first taught. She was 103 years old. Her remains were transported to her adopted hometown of Bakersfield where she is buried.
MONEY MATTERS
COMMON FINANCIAL MISTAKES WOMEN MAKE AND HOW TO CORRECT THEM
W
e all make mistakes — after all, we are human. Recognizing that both men and women make financial blunders, there are certain missteps that women tend to make more often than men, all of which are easily avoidable.
NOT KNOWING OR UNDERSTANDING THE FINANCES Most women at some point in their lives will be solely responsible for their well-being. If you know nothing about your household finances, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage. The death of a spouse, divorce, or other life-changing event can wreak economic havoc if you’re financially oblivious. Even finding the basic information needed to pay bills can be a challenge. The best way to avoid this financial mistake is to be more involved. If you leave the money management to your spouse, be informed and get a grip on the big picture. What are your household costs? What do both of you earn and bring to the table? What retirement benefits do you and your spouse have? Make a list of your assets and debt, including whose name(s) they are listed under. On that same note, ask questions about your tax returns and know what you’re signing. Too often, I see widowed spouses left to figure out muddled tax situations because the deceased spouse independently handled the tax affairs.
PUTTING THE KIDS FIRST As nurturers and caregivers, women tend to put others before themselves, especially the kids. This can cause problems down the road. It’s not uncommon to see moms financially coddle their kids to a fault. I’ve seen moms repeatedly dip into their personal savings to help adult children financially. Naturally, we want to help our children. But if an adult child is financially dependent, come up with a plan together that incentivizes them to solve their own financial issues. You have to put on your own oxygen mask before you can assist others. This is also true for finances. Waylaying your retirement money for your adult child’s expenses isn’t good for either of you. You don’t want to be a burden on your kids later in life if you have no retirement.
OFF-RAMPING WITHOUT A PLAN Are you one of the many women who made the decision to stay home with your kids or with an aging parent for a while? It’s no secret that temporarily opting out or “off-ramping” from the workforce has financial drawbacks. Average annual earnings can decrease by 30 percent or more if a woman is out of the workforce for two or three years. While high daycare costs may temporarily work in favor of having one parent stay home, consider the long-term financial effects. If you off-ramp, stay in contact with colleagues and stay up on education so you’re better positioned for returning to the workforce. Have a plan to make up your retirement savings when you return.
HAVING NO CREDIT IN HER OWN NAME Many women rely on their husband’s credit and neglect building their own. Consider credit cards, for example. If you have credit cards with your name on them only because you’re an authorized user on your husband’s accounts, those cards do nothing to establish your own credit history. Since those cards are titled in his name and based on his credit rating, those cards can be taken away if your spouse dies or you divorce. It’s important to establish your own credit. You may need it down the road to qualify for an apartment lease, car loan, or mortgage.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Thornburgh
Let’s be clear: Not all women make these mistakes. Not all men avoid them either. Identifying what financial mistakes you make is your first step to correcting them and improving your financial future. — Chris Thornburgh is a CPA and partner at Brown Armstrong Accountancy Corp. Contact her at cthornburgh@bacpas.com or (661) 324-4971. bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
SHORT TAKES
SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM’S PHOTOS STOPPING BY BAKERSFIELD THIS FALL
A
must-see for art lovers this fall, striking Mexican photos from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art will be on display at the Bakersfield Museum of Art starting Sept. 11. The exhibit, Photography in Mexico from the Collection of SFMOMA, will be in town through Jan. 4. The Bakersfield museum was one of five California museums chosen to host the exhibit. SFMOMA Curator of Photography and tour organizer Corey Keller heralded the photos as “a taste of the rich photographic tradition that has flourished in Mexico since the Revolution.” The exhibition is supported by a grant from The James Irvine Foundation and by Bank of America. The Bakersfield Museum of Art is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Y es plata, cemento o brisa," by Pablo Ortiz Monasterio. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free for members, $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students. — Bakersfield Life
POWER WALK TO HELP WOMEN ON THE PATH TO SUCCESS
G
rab your tennis shoes and come walk for the Dress for Success Power Walk. Dress for Success is a nonprofit organization that helps women with personal hardships earn their own money and start new lives. The organization provides professional clothing and counseling for women. The Power Walk will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Sept. 6 at the Bakersfield Valley Plaza Mall. Register from 9 to 9:45 a.m., the walk will be held from 10 until 11 a.m., followed by an awards ceremony. There will also be a wellness expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “At Dress for Success, we real-
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ize that in order to live a fulfilling life, a woman needs to have balance in all areas of her life … work, relationships, and home. Having a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise is one component of that overall goal,” said Elaine McNearney, executive director of Dress For Success in Kern County. Registration is $25 per person; $30 on the day of the event. Money raised from the walk will support the women of Kern County. To register for the walk, visit dfspowerwalk.org/Bakersfield., or for information, email bakersfield@dressforsuccess.org. — Alana Garrett
September 2014
CSUB CHILDREN’S CENTER OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT
T
he Children’s Center at Cal State Bakersfield is now open to the Bakersfield community and currently enrolling for the fall 2014 quarter. Children ages 18 months to 5 years old are eligible for enrollment, but space is limited. The CSUB Children’s Center provides quality childcare programs for the children of student-parents, faculty, staff and the Bakersfield community. The center focuses on child development and education as part of a pre-kindergarten curriculum developed by Houghton Mifflin. “The center features a safe, relaxed and caring atmosphere in which children are free to explore, learn, create and grow through play,” said Gladys Garcia-Jara, Children’s Center director. “We provide opportunities for growth and development in the social, emotional, physical and cognitive areas. Every child is important, and we welcome all children and families.” Half-day and full-day programs are available. Subsidized funding is available for qualifying families. For more information, call 654-3165 or visit csub.edu/childrenscenter. — Irma Cervantes
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UP FRONT
SHORT TAKES
T
he Fairy Godmother Foundation is happy to present an evening of laughter with dinner and a comedy show with Jennifer Murphy on Oct. 9 at The Nile, 1721 19th St.
“We thought we would put some fun in the fundraiser by engaging in something all people love to do — laugh. We decided on Jen because of her commitment to our cause,” said Jim Luff, fundraising chairman. The Fairy Godmother Foundation is a charity organiJennifer Murphy zation that provides free weddings for deserving couples facing life-altering circumstances or a terminal illness. Seeking to raise funds to pay for wedding expenses, the foundation is bringing stand-up comedian Murphy to Bakersfield. She’s been on ABC’s “Comics Unleashed,” NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” and is a regular at Hollywood Improv and Jon Lovitz Comedy Club. “The greatest joy I can get from my work as a comedian is by using my talent to help others ... The comedians I am bringing along to perform with me are hilarious, and together, we can bring laughter and joy, and hopefully encouragement for people to donate more money for the foundation,” Murphy said. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dinner is at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for show only; $20 to $35 for dinner and the show. Corporate tables and packages are available with prices starting at $16 per person, including dinner. To purchase tickets, contact Colleen Bauer at colleen@fairygodmotherevents.com and 808-7816; or Makenzie Barefield at makenziephotography@gmail.com and 378-7344. — Hillary Haenes 20
Bakersfield Life Magazine
September 2014
T
he Active 20-30 Club of Bakersfield treated more than 220 children to a back-to-school shopping spree in August. In partnership with Bakersfield Rotary, CASA, Community Connection, Youth Connection, Boys and Girls Club of Kern County, and Kohl’s, the club raised more than $26,000 for the annual Children’s Shopping Spree. Each child receive more than $100 worth of new clothes and a backpack brimming with school supplies.
The event organizers have helped buy school clothes for almost 4,000 Kern County kids in the past 15 years. The Bakersfield chapter of the club (Branch No. 27) holds the biggest shopping spree in the Active 20-30 organization. “Next year we hope to be blessed with enough funds to serve 240 children,” said Shane Bryan, chairman of this year’s spree. — Bakersfield Life
An estimated 4,000 patrons, 400 volunteers and 200 restaurant workers were on hand for VillageFest in 2012.
PHOTO BY JOHN HARTE
FAIRY GODMOTHER FOUNDATION WELCOMES COMEDIAN JENNIFER MURPHY AT THE NILE
ACTIVE 20-30 CLUB TAKES KIDS ON SHOPPING SPREE
DRINK UP AND CHOW DOWN AT VILLAGEFEST
C
ome on down to Bakersfield’s most charitable party of the year, VillageFest starting at 6 p.m Sept. 6 at the Kern County Museum.
With more than 120,000 food and drink samples from numerous breweries, wineries and restaurants combined with music from 15 local bands, you’re sure to have a great night as VillageFest celebrates its 20th anniversary. This event benefits the Children’s Advocates Resource Endowment (C.A.R.E), a nonprofit organization that provides grants to local charities
that serve children. With an estimated $160,000 in proceeds collected from the event, thousands of children will be served in the quest to aid our city’s youth. Tickets are $70 and can be purchased at Vallitix, Lengthwise, and Frugatti’s Italian Restaurant. If you would like to give even more, VIP sponsorships range from $1,000 to $10,000. VillageFest is all about food, drinks, fun, and the chance to give to a good cause. So get ready to have a great time while donating to Bakersfield’s future. — Zach Esparza
GIRLS SCOUTS TO HONOR INSPIRING LOCAL WOMEN
T
hree amazing Kern County women will be honored at the sixth annual Women Inspiring Girls Awards Luncheon next month. The Girl Scouts of Central California South will recognize women who have made positive impacts on young girls and the community. The three women to be honored are Kern County District Attorney Lisa Green, Karen Goh, executive director at Garden Pathways, and LaMeka Ross, human resource advisor at Aera Energy, LLC. Over the past five years, 33 other women from Kern and Fresno counties have been honored. This year, the theme of the
Karen Goh
luncheon is “Girl Scouts in a Land of Wonder.” Guests are encouraged to wear the biggest tea party hats they have to get into the spirit of the event, organizers said. Funds raised from the luncheon will support the Girl Scouts Connect program. This program provides opportunities for girls to reach their full potential and become leaders in their communities. The luncheon will begin at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 3 at Valley Baptist Church in Bakersfield. To learn more about the luncheon or to become a sponsor, visit girlscoutsccs.org/ women-inspiring-girls or call 327-1409 ext. 204. — Alana Garrett
Lisa Green
LaMeka Ross
CULTURAL FESTIVAL HONORING DECEASED LOVED ONES SET
Ranjeet Bajwa O.D. FAAO PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
T
he sixth annual Altares de Familia, a cultural festival with strong ties to traditional folk art, will take place from 4 to 9 p.m. Nov. 2, at the Bakersfield Museum of Art and Central Park at Mill Creek. The festival gives local residents a chance to honor deceased friends and relatives by creating altars, special foods and traditional arts. Museum student art pieces created in honor of the event will be displayed and juried. Other activities will include youth mariachi, children’s crafts area, cultural craft vendors, and traditional calavera (skull) face painting. Cost is $3 per person. Chil-
welcome
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Accepted Insurance: Medicare/Medi-Cal, Straight Medi-Cal, Kern Family Healthcare, Covered California & No Insurance
Audrey Valenzuela finishes an alter. dren ages 6 and under can attend for free. The event is organized by the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. For details, sponsorships or booth availability, call 633-5495. — Bakersfield Life
661.215.1006 1721 Westwind Drive Suite B • Bakersfield
www.acecares.org bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
ON THE WEB
Foodie photos
Dating disasters
We’re cooking up our annual food issue, and we want you to serve us your best homemade food photos. Snap a shot of a dish, dessert or main course you made and email it to us at bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the title “Foodie photos” in the subject line. The deadline is 5 p.m. Sept. 1. Include your name, age, address, and a short description of the pictured delicacy. We’ll feature the best shot in the October issue and give you a delicious meal for your hard work.
Love hurts and sometimes, so does the process of finding that special someone. From awkward blind dates to terrible romantic encounters, we want to hear your cringe-worthy courting stories in 150 words or less. Send them to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com with the title “Dating disaster” by 5 p.m. Oct. 1. Please include your name, age and address. The best - or should we say worst - stories will run in our November issue, along with our annual singles feature.
Kern Gives Pacific Gas and Electric Company and TBC Media are teaming up for a new charity fundraising contest called “Kern Gives.” You can help your favorite charity win $10,000! Find out more on page 91.
WHAT I’M READING
RUTH DARRINGTON Owner of Kuka’s Folk Art
R
uth Darrington’s love of reading bloomed as she grew up in Lamont, where her teacher walked her students to the library every two weeks. “Books took me to places I never thought I would see,” Darrington said. The seventh of 11 daughters, Darrington joined the U.S. Army shortly after her 20th birthday and saw parts of the world she’d only explored in the pages of books. While stationed in Maryland, she met her husband, Julius, who was in the Air Force. They’ve been married for more than 40 years and have three children, Sean, 37; Angela Mia, 35; and Briana, 32, along with granddaughters, Jayda, 13 and Olivia, 12. Their family lived in Colorado for 23 years, and it was there that Darrington reconnected with her culture through her Ruth Darrington sister, Jennie, who owned shops similar to Kuka’s, the colorful Latin American arts store that Darrington opened in downtown Bakersfield in 2005. “Jennie and Don, my brother-in-law, were my inspiration and encouragers. We went to Mexico together where they taught me what to look for and where to find unique items,” Darrington said. Darrington, 67, left the Army a sergeant, which came in handy for her new career as a middle school teacher. She taught for 18 22
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September 2014
years and throughout her career, she encouraged her students to read. What I’m currently reading: My taste in literature has
evolved over my lifetime. I began with the Dick and Jane primer (required!) and continued on until I discovered Mark Twain, Maya Angelou, John Steinbeck and Pearl Buck. Currently, I am reading feel-good novels set in Ireland by Maeve Binchy. I like to read more than one novel at a time and so “Heart and Soul” and “Scarlet Feather” are on my nightstand. Favorite author: Even though she wrote only one published novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Harper Lee is hands-down my favorite author. I was transported to that dusty little town in Alabama with Scout, Jem, Atticus and of course, Boo Radley! Favorite book: “The Good Earth,” by Pearl S. Buck. I was fascinated by the culture and family dynamics. Books I’ve read more than once: I’ve read many books more than once, but I was fairly young when I first read “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and as a result, I believe I’ve read it at least four or five times and am sure I will again. Other materials I like reading: Magazines are my favorite alternative reading materials. National Geographic, Charisma, Bakersfield Life, and AARP (I know, right?!). Where I enjoy reading: When I resided in Alaska and Colorado, there was nothing better than a good book, a roaring fireplace, a warm blanket and a hot coffee. Here in Bakersfield, it’s a good book, a lounging recliner and an iced drink by the pool.
FINDING FAME
PAINTER KEITH WICKS By Miranda Whitworth
F
PHOTO COURTESY OF DON MARTIN
rom a first place win in a Bakersfield art show as a sixth grader to working for George Lucas, Keith Wicks has built his life around a passion for art. A native of Bakersfield, Wicks has lived in the Los Angeles area, San Francisco and now the city of Sonoma with his artistic ambition flourishing every step of the way. Wicks knew from a very young age that his talents were going to take him places. “When I was in grade school, I communicated very well through drawing. I was dyslexic and had other issues, and I was more apt to draw than be outspoken,” Wicks said. “I knew I needed to follow this path whether I was going to be successful or not.” Finding success has not been a problem for Wicks, who attended Bakersfield College after high school, then went into business for himself as a graphic designer. His company focused on advertising with a specialty in logo design and print. While his clients ranged from the Central Valley to Los Angeles, Wicks felt he had hit a ceiling. “I had gone as far as I could on my own. I had always picKeith Wicks tured myself being this artist and living in a big city, so it was really time to go back to school,” Wicks said. Wicks enrolled in the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. He met his wife Terry and moved to San Francisco after graduation. He spent nearly a decade teaching at the Academy of Art University and working in multimedia. Between classes, he freelanced for advertising and production companies and ultimately found himself working for Industrial Light & Magic, which was run by George Lucas. Despite his commercial success, Wicks’ favorite creative outlet has always been painting. Eventually, he broke away from the big city life in pursuit of the canvas. “I decided I really wanted to focus on just painting so I
“Morning Drive Sonoma,” by Keith Wicks moved from San Francisco to Sonoma,” Wicks said. “I moved away from all the producers and directors who kept giving me all this work and I have been here since 1997.” Now Wicks paints and shows his work across the country, Keith Wicks painted “Cafe Van Gogh” from but his focus shifted a photograph he took in Arles, France. again with the founding of the Sonoma Plein Air Foundation, a nonprofit organization that preserves art education in Sonoma area schools and community centers. “It all started when my daughter was in the third grade and said she would only get art class once a month. I did it just as an artist trying to help out kids with their art programs,” Wicks said. “Now my daughter is in Hawaii finishing up her last two years of college. She’s out and here I am, still involved.” The organization is now 12 years old and, according to Wicks, its supporters have raised more than $1 million dollars for education. “All of my teachers were very supportive; they would tell me that I would be an artist some day. That’s why I give so much back,” Wicks said. “I want to make sure that kids have the same support I did and don’t put off their creativity because the money isn’t there for art programs.” bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
MY PET
LAURA CATTANI AND MALAGA By Zach Esparza
A
bandoned with burn marks on her ears and face, Malaga’s fate seemed undeniably dreary. That is, until Laura Cattani noticed her running around on Cattani’s family farm and decided to feed her. Still afraid of human contact, Malaga quickly ran away. But after several attempts spanning a few weeks, Malaga’s trust was fully gained. “Once I finally got her inside the house and started brushing her, it’s like she adopted me,” Cattani said. That was eight years ago, and Cattani and Malaga have remained inseparable ever since. Though Cattani can’t be certain of her canine sidekick’s age or breed, she suspects Malaga is about 9 years old and a Karelian bear dog. Cattani is the farm manager for A. Cattani & Son Farm, growing table grapes and almonds in Arvin. The 33-year-old lives in Bakersfield with Malaga and likes to play ultimate frisbee in her spare time. Cattani also enjoys gardening in her tremendously diverse yard. I named my pet Malaga because: She
was found on the road Malaga in Arvin. My pet in 5 words: Smart, loyal, calm,
Favorite game: When it’s not too hot, Malaga likes to ride around the farm in the back of my truck. If it’s a hot Bakersfield summer day, she’ll ride in the front with her head sticking out. Favorite food: Besides the dog food at Costco, she loves all kinds of cheese. Talents: In the almond trees, there are numerous pests, including squirrels. Malaga can catch the squirrels and bring them to me. Antics: She is really protective and barks at people a lot. Though medium-sized dog, she likes to jump up on my lap.
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Bakersfield Life Magazine
Laura Cattani and Malaga
My pet is happy when… I take her out to the farm and let her run around the grapes and the trees. I know my pet is moody when… We are at the house and she gets really watchful of the house and me. A typical day for my pet: Malaga and I
September 2014
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
brave, loving.
get up at 5 o’clock in the morning. At this time of the year, I harvest table grapes. We travel by my truck to the farm. While I’m dealing with the grapes, she likes to run around. To recuperate, Malaga stays with me in my office as I finish up paperwork. At the end of a long work day, we go back to the house and take a walk or play in the yard.
BY THE NUMBERS
A look at women in Bakersfield
Age 22%
22%
26% 30%
ď Ž 18 - 29 ď Ž 30 - 44 ď Ž 45 - 49 ď Ž 60 or older
Household income 25%
Home ownership
5%
34%
13% 28%
ď Ž $29,999 or less ď Ž $30,000 - $49,999 ď Ž $50,000 - $74,999 ď Ž $75,000 or more
44%
51%
ď Ž Owner ď Ž Renter ď Ž Other
Education ď Ž High school or less ď Ž Some college ď Ž College graduate or more ď Ž Studying at a college/university ď Ž Participated in continuing education classes in the past 12 months
Marital status 19% 56% 25%
ď Ž Married ď Ž Single ď Ž Widowed/separated/ divorced
102,586 67,499 26,648 22,555 22,634
Presence of children at home ď Ž Children age 0 - 17 ď Ž No children age 0-17 ď Ž Teenagers age 12 - 17
102,487 94,246
Source: Scarborough Research (released March 2014)
51,593
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bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
IN SEASON
WHATEVER’S FAIR
Fair. Twelve days of food, festivities, and family fun starts Sept. 17 and wraps up on Sept. 28. Along with the events and exhibits you look forward to all year, check out the Ranch Rodeo with wild cow milking, ranch team-roping, and open bronc riding from the 19th through the 21st. New competitive exhibits this year include a homebrew contest with six categories each for beer and wine, as well as a farm junk sculpture contest. Music fans will enjoy this year's lineup which includes Thompson Square, The Ohio Players and Sawyer Brown, as well as twice-nightly performances on stage at La Villa Festiva. Kansas will be welcoming their wayward sons and daughters on the 18th,
Michelle Williams, a member of the Sundance 4-H organization, gives her Brahman, Tequila, a kiss and a hug after a bath in the livestock area of the Kern County Fair. 26
Bakersfield Life Magazine
September 2014
FAIR EATS For many of us, the music, animals and other extravaganzas are just bonus events for the real reason we go to the fair each year — the food. So step up your workouts, juice a few extra meals, and get ready to give your diet a few days off to try these traditional favorites. DeMolay Booth: While the origin of corn dogs is a matter of some question, their connection to county fairs goes back to the late 1930s and early ’40s. Ask any longtime resident where to get the best corn dog at the fair, and they'll likely direct you to the East Bakersfield DeMolay booth around the corner and to the right on Main Street. No food is more synonymous with the fair than a good homemade corn dog, and DeMolay has the best.
Jose Rodriguez tore into a DeMolay corn dog, a Kern County Fair staple, last fall.
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
S
eptember in Bakersfield arrives with two very important events, an end to the sweltering summer heat and the return of the great Kern County
and you will be able to check “Lonesome” George Thorogood off your blues-rock bucket list on the 26th. If you love rock 'n roll, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts will be closing out the fair on the final Sunday.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
by Kevin McCloskey
Boy Scout Booth: Supporting your favorite local organizations is an important fair tradition, and the Boy Scouts of the Southern Sierra Council will happily trade a huge, delicious baked potato for your kind support. Look for the booth shaped like a giant, flat-brimmed scout hat and order one with the works. Your spud will come topped with butter, chili, green onions, bacon, and sour cream. If there was a way to sell these beauties door-to-door, they could easily give Girl Scouts and their cookies a run for their money. The Basque Club: One of Bakersfield's most unique features is our generous handful of Basque restaurants. The family-style nature of these establishments is perfectly analogous to the strength of community that we all enjoy. This tradition was brought to the fair in 1974 by the Kern County Basque Club, and their pickled tongue and lamb dip sandwiches have been a fair staple ever since. Or grab a bowl of Basque beans, salsa and a big chunk of bread to hold you over until your next visit to Old Town Kern. Mac's Patio: Kettle corn and funnel cakes have ventured out of the county fair arena to almost every outdoor event that draws a hundred people or more,
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
Colby Grimsley, 5, learned his nose could "honk" when Tadpole the clown touched it!
WHEN TO GO PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
but for unique items that can only be found at the fair, visit Mac's Patio. With chocolate-covered bacon, deep-fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, roast beef sundaes, and the famous “Koolickle,” a dill pickle infused with Koolaid, Mac's is sure to satisfy your adventurous appetite. La Villa Festiva: If you are having trouble getting your family to agree on what to eat, head over to La Villa Festiva for a multitude of your favorite Mexican food options, all within a few dozen yards of one another. Each concessionaire has their own style and specialties, and you'll be hard pressed to pick just one. Stop by around 5 or 8 p.m. each night and you can enjoy live entertainment on the La Villa Festiva stage while you eat. Check kerncountyfair.com for performance schedules.
Avery Keverline worked his turkey, Mama Turk, at the Kern County Fair.
2014 Kern County Fair, Sept. 17-28 1142 South P. St., kerncountyfair.com • Tickets: $10, adults; $9 seniors, 55 and older; and $5, children ages 6 to 12. Parking $5-10. • Hours: 3 to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sept. 19; 3 to 11 p.m. Sept. 26; noon to 11 p.m. Saturdays; and noon to 10 p.m. Sundays.
bakersfieldlife.com
27
UP FRONT
Find more community events at bakersfieldlife.com or submit yours via email to bakersfieldlife@bakersfield.com
HAPPENINGS: Can’t-miss events in September Thursday 9/4
Tuesday 9/9
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. Adults dinner/show: $54-$60; $38 show only; students dinner/show: $39; $23 show only. 325-6100.
California Admission Day Luncheon Celebration, Native Daughters of the Golden West. El Tejon Parlor No. 239, 11:30 a.m., Bakersfield Womans Club, 2030 18th St. $20 lunch and program. 589-0564
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $10 select seating only; $18-$80. ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000.
Thursday 9/11
Friday 9/5 Sixth annual Latination Art Exhibit Opening Reception, music by Mento Buru, food and drinks by El Pueblo Restaurant, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Free. info@themetrogalleries.com.
Saturday 9/6 VillageFest 2014, includes 15 drink samples and unlimited food samples, 6 to 10 p.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $70 or $75 at the gate. 21 and over only. vallitix.com or 3225200.
9/11 Support The Troops Memorial Run, entertainment, raffle, refreshments 3 p.m., ride leaves at 6:30 p.m. from Bakersfield Harley-Davidson, 35089 Merle Haggard Drive and ends at Shafter Minter Field Airport. $10 per bike, spectators and passengers are free. 332-7524.
Friday 9/12 “A Night at The Padre,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23. 587-3377.
“Hairspray,” 7 p.m., Bakersfield High School, Harvey Auditorium, 1241 G St. $10 advance, $15 at the door. 325-6100.
Second annual Bakersfield Rock & Rods Show, music by The Generators, Gamblers Mark, The Rocketz, The Lonesome Ones, Mystic Red, Contempt for Gravity, vendors, pin-up contest, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Stramler Park, 3805 Chester Ave. $10 advance; $15 at the door. bakersfieldrocknrods.com.
Wednesday 9/17 Rock & Rods Show Band of Heathens, 7:30 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $10 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.
Saturday 9/13 2014 Concert Series, with Starship with Mickey Thomas, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $12.50 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.
Thursday 9/18 BC Alumni Association’s 60th annual barbecue, social 5:30 p.m., dinner 6 to 8 p.m., Stramler Park, 3805 Chester Ave. $25; $15 students with ID; $5 for children under 12. vallitix.com or 3225200.
Bakersfield Walk Like MADD, 6:30 to 10 a.m. The Park at Riverwalk, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $20 adults; $15 ages 5 to 21; $25 runner. Bakersfield Walk Like MADD on Facebook.
Viva Mexico Festival, hosted by The Spanish Radio Group; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S P St. Free. 3279711
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
VillageFest Bakersfield Life Magazine
“Best in the West” Kern County Fair, featuring carnival rides, entertainment, concerts, food, exhibits and more, now through Sept. 28, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $10 adults; $9 seniors (55+); $5 children 6 to 12; $5 parking. 833-4900.
Saturday 9/20
Sunday 9/7
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Community Recycling Day, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Kern Schools Federal Credit Union, 11500 Bolthouse Drive. www.ksfcu.org/recycling
September 2014
Prohibition-Era Pub Crawl begins 3 p.m. at Padre Hotel, 4 p.m. Syndicate Lounge, 5 p.m. Riley’s Tavern, 6 p.m. Alley Cat. $25. 21 and over only. Come dressed as a flapper, silent screen star, or come as you are. Proceeds benefit Spay and Neuter Foundation. 858-4339.
Jason Coleman Boys & Girls Club Artfest, wine tasting, silent and live art auction, 6 to 10 p.m., Bakersfield Marriott, 801 Truxtun Ave. $75. 325-3730.
Friday 9/26 Country music artist Marcus Leary, 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., Kern County Fair’s Frontier Stage, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Free with paid fair admission. 8334900.
Saturday 9/27 Chip in for a Cure cystic fibrosis golf tournament, check-in at 11 a.m., shotgun start noon, The Links at RiverLakes Ranch, 5201 Riverlakes Drive. $85 single player, $340 foursome, $450 hole sponsor. 900-8878
Saturday 9/28 Artfest
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, 7 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 S. P St. Free with paid fair admission. 8334900.
Sunday 9/21 “Jason Coleman,” presented by Bakersfield Community Concert Association, 3 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $80 for eight concerts. 589-2478. Nerdwars Kaboom presents Heroes & Horror Con, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bakersfield Marriott, 801 Truxtun Ave. $5, come in costume and get in for half price; children 8 and under are free. Proceeds benefit Epilepsy Society of Kern County. 377-0038.
Marcus Leary bakersfieldlife.com
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UP FRONT
MY MOBILE LIFE
ELLIE SIVESIND By Bakersfield Life
PHOTO COURTESY OF ELLIE SIVESIND
T
echnology takes center stage in local thespian Ellie Sivesind’s life. By day, Sivesind is a telehealth liaison for Clinicians Telemed, a group that brings healthcare to rural areas in need. By night, Sivesind is operations director and actor at The Empty Space, a local nonprofit theatre. From Emily in “Our Town” to Puck in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” she steps into any part with gusto. This fall, she’ll play Lady Macbeth in the Kern Shakespeare Festival’s all-female pro-
Google Drive — I love using the Google Drive app on-the-go because it provides me access to all of our important documents for The Empty Space. We store forms, schedules, and manuals here, so I always have access to what I need. Twitter — This application fits me very well because I naturally limit myself to only so many characters when I’m speaking in real life. After all, brevity is the soul of wit. Whenever a pithy statement comes to mind, I immediately tweet it. Nike+ — This is an application I should probably use more often than I do. It’s a really great and motivating running app. You can set distance or time goals, and it even hooks up to your social media sites so your friends can cheer you on. Seriously though, there’s a little cheering sound it makes during your run when your friends “like” your Nike+ posts. NerdHQ — This is really only useful once a year, but I’m still mentioning it because it’s that amazing. Every year outside of San Diego Comic Con, NerdHQ holds panels with celebrities to raise money for Operation Smile, a charitable organization that provides free surgeries for children with facial deformities around the world. This app lets you in on what panels will be held and when. It’s extremely competitive to get tickets, much like actual Comic Con. Facebook — Maybe you’ve heard of it? I like this app because it keeps me connected to my friends and family all throughout the day. People often complain about modern technology impeding real relationships, but I find 30
Bakersfield Life Magazine
September 2014
duction of “Macbeth,” then Sheila in The Empty Space’s production of “Hair.” No matter what role she’s in, Sivesind is glad to have the support of her husband, Brian Sivesind, the founder and executive director of The Empty Space. Whether she’s prepping for a play or deciding what’s for dinner, her favorite apps also have her back. “Because my life can be so busy, I find great comfort in the efficiency of modern technology,” Sivesind said.
that social media sites actually keep me closer to the people I love and keep me updated on the important things happening in their lives. Pinterest —This is one I love to use for theatre. A majority of the boards that I pin to are costume boards for shows. I love looking for inspiration in pictures that others have pinned. Currently, I’m searching for pictures of Woodstock to get inspiration for Hair. The results have been… interesting. Yelp — I’ve been an avid Yelper for years, and I rely heavily on this app for reviews of restaurants, salons and many other businesses. It’s great when you’re in a place you’ve never been, and you want to find where the locals love to go. But it’s even helpful here in Bakersfield when I’m stumped on where to eat dinner. Instagram — This application is one that I check often because my friends are such goofballs ... This is also a great place for actors to post wacky backstage shots. When we takes pictures at The Empty Space, we hashtag it #emptyspacers and it then shows up on our website at www.esonline.org. Chipotle — I saved the best for last. This is an app I use far too frequently. But it’s so good! And with this app, it’s also really efficient to order. Their lines can get pretty crazy, so I like being able to head straight to the register and pick up my food.
B A K E R S F I E L D M AT T E R S By Lisa Kimble
A MOM’S “SHADY” MISSION
S
ometimes it doesn't take a village, but one persistent and savvy mom to make a change in children’s lives. Just ask St. Francis Parish School. A year ago, when the Kuuskraa family moved to Bakersfield from Kazakhstan and enrolled their young children at St. Francis, mom Catherine was struck by the students' daily exposure to the sun. “The first thing I noticed when I got to Bakersfield is how wonderfully sunny it is all the time,” she recalled. It's true. Bakersfield has about 292 days of sunshine annually. Clouds and rain are all but extinct. It was a stark contrast to the San Francisco fog and summer afternoon storms of Louisiana where the Kuuskraas previously lived. And as Catherine Kuuskraa surveyed her children's new school grounds, she also noted the absence of shade. Jason Kuuskraa is an executive with Chevron and the family relocated to Bakersfield for his job. The couple's children, 6year-old James and 4-year-old Caroline, attended a British preschool in Kazakhstan where hats at school were worn routinely to protect against the sun's damaging rays and were readily available for kids who left theirs at home. “My son wears a baseball hat, and he didn't understand when we moved here why he couldn't wear a hat instead of sunscreen to school,” Catherine Kuuskraa said. When he complained of being slathered in sunscreen every morning, Mother Possible hatched a plan. The sun was about to set on the conventional school uniform. “There are so many expenses in retrofitting playgrounds to make them shadier using UV canvas and I thought, 'There has to be a better way,’” Kuuskraa said. She floated the idea of a uniformapproved optional sun hat to other parents. “It was astounding how many parents felt the same way,” she said. Emboldened with support, she sought and received the blessing of the school's pastor, principal and school board. “Mrs. Kuuskraa introduced the idea to help our students who may be at risk of melanoma due to the heat we experience 32
Bakersfield Life Magazine
Catherine Kuuskraa's little St. Francis students, Caroline and James, sport their sun hats. here in the Central Valley,” said St. Francis principal Sister Cristina Caballero. The shady mission was also personal for Kuuskraa, whose father has battled melanoma. Kuuskraa began researching options, and with the help of a fellow parishioner, they found an American-made sun protection hat from Coolibar. The All Sport Hat has an ultraviolet protection factor of 50-plus and features an extra long shapeable visor for eye and face coverage. It also has side and back drapes to shield the ears and neck. This seriously sun-blocking hat sells for $16 for kids and $19.50 for adults. The first order of 55 hats for the school exceeded everyone's expectations, and school workers are anticipating the next wave of orders with the new school year. Kuuskraa will be using that same takecharge moxie in her new position as director of development for the Bakersfield Museum of Art. The New Orleans native and Boston College grad lived in the Bay Area for seven
September 2014
years, where she oversaw the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art's mega million-dollar fundraisers. Eventually, she became the liaison between the museum's director and its board chairman, investor Charles Schwab. Yes, that Chuck Schwab, as Kuuskraa refers to her friend and mentor. “The most important thing I learned working with Chuck [Schwab] was learning to listen to others carefully and think before you speak,” Kuuskraa said. “Before you put in your own ideas, it is so important to really listen carefully. Those you are working with need to feel that they are part of the process. It creates deep relationships, confidence and trust.” She also credits her work over the years with the Junior League for teaching her lessons in leadership. “With League, you are always working with volunteer boards, and industry and that confluence of needs of the volunteer troops and the nonprofits, and taking everyone's needs together,” she said. The sun hat program may be up and running at St. Francis, but Kuuskraa admits it won't be child's play from here on out. The upper classes may be a tougher sell. “Interestingly, our teenage babysitter, who used to live in Perth, Australia, said sun hats are a way of life and a requirement. Here's a cool teenager telling me it's not a big deal,” she laughed. “As with all new initiatives, it takes time, and you start with preschoolers.” Though sun hats are far from becoming requirement in this country, Kuuskraa said she hopes the project will inspire copycats, and one day, be standard like seat belts and bike helmets. “My hope is many years from now I can leave behind to the community that has been so good to me Lisa Kimble a good habit for good health,” she said.
• 3 Dimensional Designing • Full Service Remodels • Cabinetry • Countertops / Backsplash • Flooring – Tile / Hardwood
We moved into our home in 1999. After retiring we decided to stay in Bakersfield to remain close to our children and grandchildren. After much thought about whether to buy a new home or to upgrade, it was apparent that we really couldn’t replace some of the • 3 Bathroom remodels unique features that our current home already had. We decided that our first project would be to • Cherry Cabinetry with Ginger remodel the bathrooms. After talking to several Snap Stain Contractors, we met Rick Sorci and his wife Shawna • Natural stone tile for floors, from Stockdale Kitchen and Bath at the Bakersfield Home Show. shower and walls After our first meeting with Rick we came away • Specialty tile mirror frame with the confidence that Rick would be the person that with sea shells and travertine, we could trust to do the work that we needed. He started by giving us a 3 Dimensional design of each of Design by Rick our Bathrooms and a detailed estimate. It enabled us to follow the estimates, step by step though the entire • Granite- Saturnia remodel project. • Oil Rubbed Bronze fixtures Working with Rick and his team was very easy; we had meetings at each stage to discuss every detail of the job. Rick is very enthusiastic about his jobs and his “My work is my passion.” main goal is to give the Customer what they want in
Project Notes
their remodel. Because of Rick’s professionalism and desire to do a quality job we decided to have Rick remodel all three of our bathrooms. We had our own thoughts of what we wanted and with Rick’s guidance and cooperation he helped us to select the right components to complete the job. All of Rick’s team were excellent to work with, we had no problem with having his employees in and out of our home thru the duration of the job. Tina in the office did an excellent job, she stayed on top of the entire process and did a exceptional job of communicating with us on every detail. Now that the bathrooms are completed, we have three beautiful rooms that are all different and unique with the common thread being the beautiful Medallion cabinets and the awesome granite. The detail on the tile work is unbelievable. In the future if we decide we need any further work done to our home, it will be easy to call Stockdale Kitchen and Bath. Dave and Sandy Champion
- Rick Sorci
“Sophisticated Elegance”
D I N I N G D I VA S
FRUGATTI’S Divas delighted by Frugatti’s authentic Italian flavors
Aryana Mosley, Norma Diaz, Nina Ha, Amanda Reade and Tanya Hutson get ready for a great Italian experience at Frugatti's. 34
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September 2014
A sampling of appetizers at Frugatti's.
By Bakersfield Life
Photos by Greg Nichols
“C
hi mangia bene, vive bene.” “He who eats well, lives well.” That aphorism is painted on the back wall of Frugatti’s, an Italian eatery established in 1990 by Ralph Fruguglietti. Located off Coffee Road and Truxtun Avenue, Frugatti’s, with its iconic bright red tomato sign, draws in customers with its Old World charm, sweeping water fountain and lively Italian music. The popular Bakersfield restaurant boasts the city’s only Italian wood-burning oven, which cooks anything from fish to chicken, and even steaks, at 800 degrees, for tender meat and al dente pasta. Fruguglietti, the restaurant’s exuberant owner, wants all his customers to experience the taste of Southern Italy when they walk into his restaurant. When it comes to a good Italian meal, “You can’t quite put your finger on it, but you know you’ve had a great meal,” he said. “It’s family, friends, noisier, livelier and fun. I want to bring that to Bakersfield.” With a revamped menu featuring 20 new customerapproved items and family photos from Fruguglietti’s private collection, Frugatti’s is a traditional Italian restaurant in every sense of the word. They adhere to strict codes when making recipes passed down from generations, import sweet tomatoes from the base of Mount Vesuvius, and select high-quality ingredients based on particular flavor characteristics. Fruguglietti hopes that with each bite, you’ll taste real Italian by real Italians.
APPETIZERS Aryana on the stuffed mushrooms: Many restaurants offer stuffed mushrooms, but Frugatti’s does it amazingly. The stuffed mushrooms aren’t just filled with both mozzarella
and Parmesan cheeses, they’re also stuffed with an ample amount of sausage with a hint of garlic and a variety of herbs and spices, which makes this appetizer a must-have. Norma on the applewood smoked baconAddress: 600 Coffee Road wrapped asparagus: The bacon Phone: 836-2000 was cooked spot Website: frugattis.com on, which made it Facebook: facebook.com/frugattis the perfect appetizHours: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday to Thurser. A carousel of day; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday heavenly flavors enticed our taste Hungry for more? Check out more food phobuds. It was a salty, tos and Divas’ dishing on Frugatti’s dishes on yet sweet taste bakersfieldlife.com. enveloping the freshest asparagus. Tanya on the wood-fired authentic pizza Napolitano: Although the ingredients are simple (dough, San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil), the taste is truly extraordinary. You don’t need a lot of embellishment when you’re using high-quality ingredients. And, everything on this pizza, except for the basil, is from Italy. The crust was pillowy-soft, the tomatoes tasted garden fresh, and the mozzarella had a perfect texture. I can honestly say this was one of the best pizzas I’ve eaten… ever!
Frugatti’s
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Continued from page 35 Nina on the New England clam chowder: Sometimes when I delve into a hot, savory bowl of clam chowder, I’m enchanted by its flavor until I get to the clams. Then, I start chewing like a determined pug on an old rubber shoe. Not so with Frugatti’s New England clam chowder. The tender and plentiful clams will give your jaws some relief and do your taste buds a garlicky favor. Unlike most chowders with titanic blocks of potatoes, this version includes finely diced cubes that improve the aesthetic, as well as tha palatable landscape of this thick, creamy soup. Bacon lovers will enjoy the cooked bits mixed in with bay leaf that complete this “cream of awesome,” as my fellow diva Tanya dubbed this dish.
ENTREES
Filet skewers with hearty veggies.
Frugatti's Italian wood-burning oven. 36
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A lively fountain sets the festive mood at Frugatti's. September 2014
Amanda on the eggplant Parmesan: A triple layer of eggplant, breaded then smothered with mozzarella and marinara sauce, is one great dish. The accompaniments of spicy sausage, stuffed mushrooms and creamy fettuccine Alfredo adds a contrast of textures and tastes. If you’ve never had this dish, this would be the perfect place to order it. It’s simply fantastic! Aryana on the crab and shrimp ravioli: If you love seafood as I do, then you’re always craving new and exciting options. This crab and shrimp ravioli is simply divine. The spinach ravioli tucks away the delicate crab and shrimp mixture covered in the perfect amount of a sweet vermouth sauce similar to an alfredo. I was more than pleased with both the presentation and the taste of this dish. Nina on the wood-fired salmon with fat Sammy sauce: A Frugatti’s customer favorite, this sizable serving of savory salmon soothes the soul (apologies for anti-alliteration advocates). I can attest to the addictive properties of the mythical fat Sammy and his red pepper pestoinfused sauce. Frugatti’s serves up three big slabs of wood-fired salmon for 12 ounces of seafood succulence served alongside asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy Parmesan spuds were unlike anything I’ve ever had. Each bite was so confoundingly good that I had to ask about their secret ingredient. Apparently, the cream cheese makes you want to eat the taters until your stomach begs you to stop for lack of space. Norma on the chicken cannelloni: Frugatti’s chicken cannelloni begins with tender chicken blended with awesome tasting cheeses, some garlic and a bit of onion, enough to savor every bite. The crepe was the setting to the diamond: Homemade and thin, housing all the delicious filling topped with alfredo sauce and beautifully displayed with just the right amount of marinara sauce to make the presentation irresistible! The real treat that makes this dish superb is the stuffed mushrooms that were to die for. Norma on the baked mostaccioli (gluten-free): While studying the new menu at Frugatti’s, Ralph’s Fitness Menu drew my attention. Italian cuisine has always had a carb taboo associated with it. Since I’m an athlete, this section was new and exciting to me. Not only are the
portions measured out, but the calorie count is also present. And, they’ve included gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts. The gluten-free pasta in the baked mostaccioli was absolutely perfect: Great flavor, not overwhelmed by cheese with a sauce that doesn’t drown the pasta. The most amazing touch was the baked part, which left a nice thin layer of cheese toasted on top. I was thrilled to discover all of this because now I’ll be a regular at this awesome establishment, and I invite you to be one, too!
DESSERTS Amanda on the New York cheesecake: I have had cheesecake in every restaurant in Bakersfield, but this is my favorite. My kids never forget to ask me if we can get a piece for dessert when we are dining at Frugatti’s. There’s just something special about the creamy cheese atop the graham cracker crust topped with sour cream that makes one bite not enough. I suppose that’s why now I order more than one piece every time I dine here. Aryana on the lemon ricotta Italian cheesecake: Simply breathtaking, this very light cheesecake with a unique twist of ricotta cheese, fresh-squeezed lemon and some caramelized lemon peel throughout with a cookie crust, makes for both immense joy and happiness. This dessert; however decadent, is worth every bite and should definitely be shared! Norma on the zabaglione cream: This delightful treat is one to be tried. Zabaglione is a custard that is a huge favorite in Italy. The dessert was served in a Martinishaped glass, which was placed right before me and my mouth watered for those beautiful red raspberries that topped it. Its look was elegant and inviting: mascarpone cheese, cream, rum and Marsala wine create the hints of flavor in this custard. As I savored the flavor, I envisioned using it as a cream draped over a sponge cake or sliced fruit. Too tasteful not to try, I would definitely recommend it to everyone. Tanya on Tony’s cannoli: Even before I stepped foot in the restaurant, I knew I wanted the cannoli. So, when it was time to place our dessert order, I spoke up promptly to ensure that the cannoli would be mine! Although I was really full from the pizza, I managed to devour the crisp pastry shell filled with cannoli cream. What I especially like about Frugatti’s cannoli is that although it is pretty rich, the filling has an airy lightness to it. The caramel sauce and mini chocolate chips that accompany the dessert push it over the confectionery top in terms of sugary goodness.
Pick up a dinner to go at Frugatti's.
Side salad packed with flavor.
From custard and cakes to cannoli, a sampling of Frugatti's delicious desserts.
DIVAS’ DECLARATION Frugatti’s staff succeeds in making you feel benvenuti (welcome) at their family-owned business. They expertly combine tasty food, quality ingredients and impeccable service for a unique dining experience for their customers. After spending time with good friends and close family with a quality meal at Frugatti’s, you’ll leave knowing that you ate well and lived well.
Seafood lovers must try crab shrimp ravioli wrapped in spinach pasta.
Savory chicken cannelloni served with a sample of stuffed mushrooms. bakersfieldlife.com
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FOOD AND WINE
A NEW WAY TO WINE Wine proves to be a bold mixer for cocktails
Samantha Elliott prepares a Pomplamoose Madness, a cocktail made with sauvignon blanc, pink grapefruit vodka and grapefruit juice. 38
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The Padre Hotel kicks up some of its seasonal cocktails with wine.
By Elizabeth Castillo
W
Photos by Mark Nessia
ine on its own is more than fine, but did you know it can also be a great ingredient for crafting a new cocktail? One of the best parts about a delicious cocktail is enjoying the flavors that mingle to create a tasty adult treat. But the number of ingredients in a cocktail can easily affect the alcohol content and cause a drink to become too boozy too quickly. A great way to enjoy a cocktail while keeping the alcohol content in check is by adding wine. “Wine in cocktails is good because in the end, you don’t want something that’s too alcoholic and using wine is great in creating a larger cocktail,” said Robert Williams, food and beverage director at The Padre Hotel. Although adding wine to cocktails is an idea that is gaining popularity at the moment, Williams said the idea isn’t new. “Yeah, it’s a trend, but it’s been done for quite a while,” Williams said.
Adding wine or sparkling wine to a cocktail is something that has been done for centuries. According to Food Arts magazine, one of the first cocktail recipes to feature wine was written in 1447. A Bishop cocktail blends rum with red wine, and recipes for the drink have been featured in cocktail publications throughout the centuries. Padre workers were recently inspired by a classic champagne cocktail, the French 75. This cocktail mixes champagne and gin and was named after the 75-millimeter M1897, a gun used in World War I, according to Esquire. Whereas wine can mellow the alcoholic content of some drinks, the French 75 shows adding wine or sparkling wine can also pleasantly intensify a drink’s alcohol content instead. This powerful cocktail was conceived in 1915 and recently reimagined at The Padre. “We used to have our own spin on the French 75 called the Thyme 75. It was very similar, and it featured thyme leaves, champagne and lime juice,” Williams said. Although the Thyme 75 is no longer on the Padre’s cocktail list, the hotel understands the value of a good wine-based
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Continued from page 39 cocktail and is currently serving the Pomplamoose Madness. Themed after the French word for grapefruit, the Padre’s cocktail features grapefruit vodka and sauvignon blanc. Williams paired the two because sauvignon blanc and grapefruit blend nicely. “When creating a new wine-based cocktail, it’s important to understand how fruit compliments wine,” he said. “If someone were to have a blind taste test for sauvignon blanc, the aromas that come about are grapefruit and other citrus. I decided to enhance that and make it into a cocktail.” Considering the characteristics of a wine is key when deciding how to use it in a cocktail. The fruity and acidic traits of a wine are two important characteristics to mull. Another characteristic to consider is the tannin content. Tannin is a compound that gives wine bitterness and astringency, according to winefolly.com. If a wine is high in tannin, it is typically drier. A dry wine can be a fitting ingredient for a sweet cocktail. “A sweet cocktail balances a dry wine, so you could then use the wine as a balancing tool,” Williams said. Williams has encountered dry wine used successfully in whiskey cocktails on two different occasions. “I recently had a cocktail with dry red wine, and it’s really
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September 2014
good. It’s a traditional whiskey sour with a red wine float. It had nice citrus and mixed berry flavors,” he said. Backyard bartenders can also substitute wine or sparkling wine for another ingredient to enhance classic cocktails. Williams suggests adding sparkling wine to a mojito instead of using club soda or Sprite, which gives the cocktail more flare. “(Using wine in cocktails) is like a tool in my belt. The more ingredients I can work with, the more I can do,” Williams said. When creating his own magical concoctions of wine and liquor, Williams always enjoys challenging himself to invent something new. “Some people say that everything’s already been done and there is nothing new, but I see it as a challenge. I think of how I can modify a basic cocktail and make it better,” Williams said. For those who are ready to mix up some wine-based cocktails of their own, Williams said it’s important to be fearless. “Don’t worry about making a bad cocktail. Bridge the similarities of ingredients you like with the wine,” Williams said. “For example, you’re at a farmers market and see some fresh raspberries. Combine the raspberries with crushed ice, gin and red wine. Ask yourself, ‘Does it work? Does it not?’”
FOODIE
CHRISTIAN FLORES-CASTANEDA Certified culinarian loves to ‘chef it up’ for friends
By Hillary Haenes
W
Photos by Amy Edmonson
ith 15 years of food service under his belt, Christian Flores-Castaneda knows the ins and outs of the industry. He’s done everything from wash dishes to bus tables. He’s tried his hand as a barista, sandwich artist and bar and nightclub manager. He rounded out his experience by becoming a certified culinarian via Bakersfield College’s Culinary Arts Program. “I learned the science and skills necessary to understand the inner workings of a restaurant kitchen and ultimately becoming a better cook,” said Flores-Castaneda, whose goal is to one day manage and later own a successful food service business, whether that be a food truck or catering service. For the past two years, Flores-Castaneda has worked as a prep chef at Lengthwise: The Pub on Calloway Drive, but the 32-year-old recently accepted a serving position at Red Robin. In the meantime, he continues to experiment with recipes at home and at dinner parties with
Christian Flores-Castaneda gets silly while cooking with friends in the kitchen. 42
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friends.
COOKING ADVICE Cooking is important to me because: It brings people together. Weddings, funerals, birthdays… food is a celebration of life. It’s my artistic outlet, and I like to play with food and flavor profiles. I developed an interest in cooking when: I was about 7 or 8. My mom would Fresh ingredients are entrée essentials. work late, and my sister and I were left to cook for our younger siblings, mostly easy Must-have kitchen tools: Nothing comstuff like mac ’n cheese or Hamburger Helper pares to a wooden spoon. Make sure you have that I’d always doctor up — my mom used to at least one in your arsenal. call them “concoctions.” Go-to cookbooks: Bakersfield College’s How often I cook for family and Renegade Room recipe packets (from producfriends: Not as often as I’d prefer. I’ve decided tions classes) or something from Rachel Ray. to dedicate at least one night a week to an elabSpice cabinet necessities: Garlic poworate meal. der, black pepper, cumin, onion powder, nutEverything goes better with: Bacon. meg and Morton’s table salt. Period. Favorite cooking show: “Good Eats” and I always mess up: Mexican rice. “Cutthroat Kitchen.” I rock at making: Chicken marsala and Dream kitchen appliance: Stainless-steel jambalaya. double decker oven with convection fan option, My go-to ingredient: Garlic salt. and a lighted five-burner range top with a gridI buy this in bulk: Canned diced tomatoes dle/grill combo. and chicken when it’s on sale. My humorous kitchen story: I’ve been teased that I can take a Rachel Ray “30-minute meal” recipe and turn it into an hour-plus production. How I find inspiration to create a new dish: Usually something I see on television or in a magazine in the checkout line. I take that idea and give it a twist. If I could spend a day with a famous chef or fellow foodie, it would be Alton Brown because: He’s so knowledgeable of his product, his equipment and cooking methods. I really enjoyed his show “Good Eats” and found the science behind his production just as interesting and entertaining as the dish he was creating. Advice I would ask him: I would like to just work alongside him and learn from his skills. Anything he could teach me would be appreciated.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE My favorite piece of cooking equipment: Cuisinart emersion blender. Great for shakes and sauces.
Cobbler gets a light sprinkling of granulated sugar before baking.
Chicken Marsala Serves 4-8 Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon garlic salt 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon onion powder 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, fileted and pounded thin 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (twice around the pan) 3 tablespoons butter 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced 3 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini, shitake, baby Bella) 1 cup marsala wine 3/4 cups chicken stock 1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped Directions In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch and seasonings. Mix well. Lightly dredge chicken breast cutlets and set aside on waxed paper, layering paper and chicken to prevent sticking. Heat oil in large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter to oil and cook the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 3 minutes per side. Place cooked chicken on plate and set aside. Melt remaining butter in pan on medium heat, sauteing mushrooms about 2 minutes. Add garlic to mushrooms and liquid, stirring frequently to prevent burning. When mushrooms and garlic are tender and golden brown, add marsala to pan, scraping browned bits off bottom. Reduce liquid by half and add chicken stock, bring to a boil. Add chicken breasts to pan and reduce heat to low until chicken is cooked thoroughly and sauce has thickened, about 5 to 6 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley for garnish. Chicken and sauce is best served over bed of seasoned wild rice or angel hair pasta. For more recipes, visit bakersfieldlife.com.
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GLOBE-TROTTING
Grilled Asparagus and Broccoli Ingredients 1 bunch asparagus, washed, base ends removed (about one inch) 1 bunch broccoli, quartered, washed, trimmed Extra virgin olive oil (to coat vegetables) 2 teaspoons garlic salt 2 teaspoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoons cayenne pepper Directions Add vegetables to medium-sized bowl and toss with oil to coat. Sprinkle with mixed seasonings. Grill over open-flame until charred and tender.
Chatty’s Peach Cobbler (modified) Ingredients Crumb Topping: 1 box yellow cake mix 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped 1 stick (4 ounces) butter, melted Fruit Filling 8 medium peaches, pitted and sliced 1 cup granulated sugar, minus 1 tablespoon, separated 2 tablespoons granulated tapioca gelatin 1 teaspoon ground ginger Directions Preheat oven to 375 F. Spray 9-inch by 11-inch glass pan with non-stick cooking spray. In medium bowl, combine ingredients for crumb topping; set aside. In large bowl, combine ingredients for fruit base. Add fruit mixture to baking dish, smooth out as neatly as possible; cover with topping mix, leaving sides and corners bare. After sprinkling with sugar, cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove foil, bake another 15 to 20 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream a la mode.
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Favorite cuisine: What foodies are referring to as “California fusion.” Tex-Mex/PanAsian/fresh seafood/healthy lifestyle — a hodgepodge of techniques and cooking methods and flavors as diverse as the state’s cultural make-up.
off as soon as it was out of the oven. Burnt fingertips are totally worth the warm buttery goodness.
Favorite local restaurant and my order:
Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar. I order pad see-ew with chicken a little well done. I like a good char on the noodles and veggies. Best food memory: Making zucchini bread for Christmas. Best culinary destination: So far, Denver. I ate my way around the neighborhood — soul food, doughnuts, Thai, American comfort food — quite a smorgasbord. Most expensive meal: Most recently, Acorn in Denver. Pork shoulder roast, squid ink pasta, shrimp and grits. We had a little bit of everything between the four of us dining. Came out to about $250 total with wine. Weirdest food I like: Peanut butter, egg, and cheese sandwich, courtesy of Christa Edwards. Most surprising food I’m not crazy about:
Lamb. It’s too gamey for my taste, almost foul.
Christian Flores-Castaneda enjoys dinner parties with friends.
My splurge at the grocery store: Sweets like cookies, vanilla bean ice cream and candy at the checkout line. The single tastiest thing I’ve eaten this month: Jerk chicken with collard greens and macaroni and cheese from Welton Street Cafe in Denver. Hands down, the best combination of flavors, textures and smells on one plate — spicy, savory, creamy, amazing.
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS Always in the fridge:
Butter. I’m addicted to: Peanut butter. A spoonful every day. Farmers market finds:
In Seattle, I found purple long beans and purple bell peppers. I tend to look for interesting-looking foods. Comfort food: Mama’s chicken and dumplings, and my late mother-in-law Hope’s greeny beanies. Family recipe: My late father-in-law Frank’s curry chicken that he passed down to me. (I've yet to perfect my own curry spice, so I rely on store-bought authentic blends.) Also, my stepmother Chatty’s peach cobbler. Growing up, I’d always pick the big crumbs
Peach cobbler, fresh from the oven.
Photos by Amy Michelle Photography. Visit facebook.com/PhotosByAmyM or call 335-2009.
September 2014
6 6 1 . 3 2 7. 5 1 6 1
7328 Outingdale 661.332.1021 $339,000 Lisa Belt-Realtor
LiveWell
Eddie Hernandez-Photographer
9101 C A MINO MEDIA , BAKER SFIELD, C A 93311 Office MLS# 00782354
Fred and Ginny Hamisch at Kern Community Foundation’s 2012 Annual Celebration.
FRED AND VIRGINIA HAMISCH By Jeff Pickering
Q
uiet appreciation for the service of others has been a lifelong theme of Fred and Ginny Hamisch’s philanthropy. A steady stream of generosity is the legacy they created. In 2007, after selling Hydratec, an irrigation dealership he owned for nearly 20 years, Fred and his wife Virginia (Ginny) established the Fred and Virginia Hamisch Charitable Fund, a donor-advised fund at Kern Community Foundation. “Before selling the company, we had always been involved in some aspect of community service but did not really have much money to give,” Ginny said. “We were introduced to the benefits of giving through a community foundation by our attorney, Terrence Werdell, and CPA Novena Weaver. We trusted their advice and appreciated the opportunity to thoughtfully plan our giving, which has really been a new experience for us.” That same year, the couple made a gift of $500,000 to the BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department in Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. This gift launched the university’s efforts to offer online irrigation classes. In Fred’s words, the couple’s gift to Cal Poly was “our way of saying ‘thank you’ for the education I received.” The Hamischs moved to Bakersfield in 1966, shortly after Fred’s graduation from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and the conclusion of his military service. 46
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PHOTO BY JUDY ALFTER
FAC E S O F P H I L A N T H R O PY
Ginny’s first impressions of Bakersfield were of “the heat” and also of the many opportunities to “get involved.” One of Ginny’s first volunteer commitments was through the local office of Children’s Home Society, which provided services to families involved with adoptions. In 1975, she joined the Junior League of Bakersfield and remains a sustaining member. “Ginny has always been the face of our family’s community service,” Fred said. “She has done all the work.” To his credit, Fred currently serves on the Bakersfield Museum of Art Board of Directors. Today, Ginny’s community service continues through the Bakersfield Museum of Art’s Blue Ribbon Circle and the Women’s and Girls’ Fund of Kern Community Foundation. In 2008, and again in 2014, Fred and Ginny used their donor-advised fund to make anonymous matching grants that helped start and ultimately finish the Women’s and Girls’ Fund’s Building to a Million campaign. Today, the Women’s and Girls’ Fund endowment has grown to more than $1 million in assets, and makes annual grants to local charitable organizations that work to improve the lives of women and girls in Kern County. “I have always admired the people involved in the Women’s and Girls’ Fund,” Ginny said. “We wanted to do something to encourage more people to be a part of it.” In Kern County and beyond, the Hamischs’ thoughtfully planned generosity is sure to make a difference for many generations. — Jeff Pickering is president and CEO of Kern Community Foundation and its subsidiary Kern Real Estate Foundation. To learn more about the foundation, visit kernfoundation.org or call 616-2617.
ON THE ROAD
2014 MERCEDES-BENZ B-CLASS ELECTRIC DRIVE A silent, eco-friendly ride
Bakersfield Life assistant editor Rachel Cook drives the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive.
By Rachel Cook
Photos by Mark Nessia
T
he Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is a stealthy car, so silent that you don’t even notice it’s on. Until you make the wheels chirp. I personally don’t know anything about making the wheels on this one sing because I was too timid to floor it when Campbell Cameron, Mercedes-Benz sales consultant, urged me to give the B-Class some charge on a quiet street. I managed to get the car to 70 mph eventually. Much to 48
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my surprise, this Benz smoothly and quickly accelerated with none of the laborious revving I’ve heard from hybrids. Over three days of driving, I was pleasantly surprised that driving the B-Class wasn’t noticeably different (except for the silence) from a gas-powered car. Yes, the B-Class requires zero gas to get it going, and yes, you charge it simply by plugging it in. But electric magic aside, at heart the B-Class is a Mercedes-Benz through and through — stylish and powerful. As Cameron said, “you get all the features of a Mercedes-
It’s all in the details
It's easy to monitor how much energy you're using with the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive's 5.8-inch screen.
This Mercedes-Benz can be plugged in at any charging station. Benz; it just happens to be electric.” The B-Class debuted this summer in California, Oregon, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. While the look is new to Bakersfield and the U.S., Europeans have enjoyed the B-Class design for about a decade. James Whelden, Mercedes-Benz product concierge, said that while other electric models on the market sacrifice on luxury and the details, the B-Class was originally designed with under the floor space that opened the car up for a host of uses. In Los Angeles, hydrogen models have been leased for five years and in the electric version, that space houses the car’s battery. This hatchback boasts more space than a sedan, with an adjustable armrest up front, lumbar support and heated seats. With the 5.8-inch color screen, you can easily check out how much or how little power you’re using on your drive. The B-Class seats five with room to spare for cargo (21.6 cubic feet with the back seats up and about 51 with the seats folded down). Though the charge capabilities aren’t right for road trips, this zippy little car’s appeal is strong for commuters. With 85 city miles per full charge, it can get you to and from work and around town for
errands with ease. I drove it for three days without powering up. Living in a valley famous for lessthan-stellar air quality, this car’s zero emissions status is more than impressive, it’s a public service. “The beauty of it is the greeness of the car,” said Hassan Halevy, director of marketing for Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield. The plug-in port on the B-Class works with any charging station. You can power up with your regular 120-volt outlet, but drivers can also upgrade to a 240volt at-home station to cut down on charging time. Driving wise, this car is sure to blow preconceptions away. The steering is precise and easy to pilot, something I greatly appreciated during my multi-point maneuver backing it in and out of the front of the Bakersfield Museum of Art for a fountain-side photo shoot. A handy feature is the brake hold, part of Mercedes-Benz Adaptive Brake Technology. At a stoplight, you can press a little more on the brake and the car will stay in park until you accelerate. A more-than-handy (I might venture to call it necessary) tool is the Thermotronic Climate Control. That’s just a fancy way of saying this car will have your back while you pick up your prescription or buy groceries. Simply set the air conditioning or heat to keep running while you’re away, and the car will be as icy or toasty as you left it when you return. While it could be a few years before we see charging stations popping up all over Bakersfield, drivers in the market for an eco-friendly, stunning vehicle should get a jump on the rest of us and take the B-Class for a spin. And be sure to chirp the wheels.
Mileage: 85 city, 83 highway Price tag: $41,450 Five best features • Full range of Mercedes-Benz Safety innovations, including Radar Based Collision Prevention Assist and Attention Assist, both of which are standard. • Becker® MAP PILOT Navigation System. • Three-year complimentary subscription to mBrace® Safety and Security Telematics. • Available Blind Spot Assist and Parktronic with Parking Assist. • Room for five, plus cargo. Target customer: The daily commuter and/or those running in-town errands who want all the economy of a plug-in electric vehicle with no compromise of Mercedes-Benz safety, performance or style. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is perfect for… daily commuting in Bakersfield and around town, errands of all types. Three words that define the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive: Fast, safe, economical. What do you like most about the 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive? The standard Thermotronic Climate Control that allows you to keep the interior of the car at your desired temperature (warm or cool) for up to 50 minutes while you are out of the car. Great for shopping in August or January. You can also program the car to turn on the Climate Control before you go to work in the morning or go home in the afternoon, via the car’s computer or with a free app on your smartphone. Source: James Whelden, product concierge, Mercedes-Benz of Bakersfield
Folding trays make the back seat perfect for shuttling kids around town. bakersfieldlife.com
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ON THE ROAD
2014 LEXUS LS 460 F SPORT LS F Sport blends luxury, reliability and athletic prowess
Bakersfield Life editor Olivia Garcia drives the 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport.
By Olivia Garcia
I The Lexus LS 460 F Sport offers endless features to make your drive safe and comfortable.
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Photos by Mark Nessia
t’s hard for a luxury brand like Lexus LS to fail on any mark, and the bar just got raised higher with its new F Sport version. The 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport represents a step above the flagship’s reputation of luxury, combining elegance and muscle. “The F Sport has been one of the hottest things right now,” said Cherif Guirguis, sales manager at Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield. Lexus drivers “still want luxury, but they also want a sporty car, too.” The LS F Sport delivers that perfect blend — “a more aggressive, sportier option,” Guirguis explained. “It’s the best of both worlds,” he said. The LS F Sport is loaded with the 4.6-liter, 386-horsepower V8 engine and available in all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. Motorists get to choose between three driving modes. Some of 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport features include: keyless entry, Brembo brake package, 19-inch forged-alloy BBS wheels, better handling system, sportier lowered Adaptive Variable Air Suspension, stabilizer bars and shock absorbers, and cooling and heated seats (also available for rear passengers), as well as seating preference programmed for drivers and the front passenger. It’s the first time I have heard that programmed seating is available for the front
The Lexus LS 460 F Sport offers a powerful drive with a luxurious cabin to boot. passenger – great idea for the spouse. “Immediately apparent to the eye is a more aggressive mesh-style spindle grille, 19-inch LFA-inspired aluminum wheels, and full body skirting,” added Rob Rothwell on the Driving website. “Less apparent is the big sedan’s sophisticated air-suspension setup, which optimizes the balance between handling dynamics and ride comfort regardless of the chassis setting selected.” I have to say, the signature mesh grille is an eye-catcher. Ali Douglas, director of sales of Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield, noted that the innovation behind the LS F Sport stems from the swift, jaw-dropping Lexus LFA supercar.
The inside of the LS F Sport is just as pleasing to the eye. The interior is roomy with added legroom for anyone taller than me (which is pretty much everyone). I loved its buttery leather and suede interior — running my fingers across it felt so soft. And sitting in the driver’s seat felt like you were relaxing in your favorite office chair at work. What can be more perfect than that? My 17-year-old son Diego quickly added this model to his dream car list. I guess one of the best things about having a mom test drive cars is that he gets a sneak peek into his possible future car. He and I were both impressed with the cabin’s ability to control the noise — or in this case, to keep the outside noise out, where it belongs, so that we could focus on our conversations or music. We were spoiled by the 12.3-inch split-screen multimedia display, which allowed us to see the navigation and music playlist Bluetoothed from my iPhone at the same time. Guirguis noted that the screen is one of the largest in the industry, and you can split screen the different features you see, such as weather, stock and fuel prices, traffic incidents and more. I test-drove the LS F Sport during one of the hottest weeks of the summer, and I did not complain one bit. Driving through traffic, fast or slow, was a treat instead of something I dreaded. The blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert made driving such a pleasant experience.
Sporty 19-inch forged-alloy BBS wheels are one of the many revved up touches on this Lexus.
It’s all in the details Mileage: 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. Combined is 19 MPG. Price tag: Starting price is $72,140. Five best features: • F Sport Performance: Inspired by the worldrenowned Lexus LFA supercar, the LS F Sport is engineered to drive your hunger for performance even further. • Variable Driving Modes: You select the engine performance, fuel efficiency and even the degree of road feel. • Executive-class seating: The next best thing to driving the LS is relaxing in this available expansive and luxurious rear seat • Mark Levinson Surround Sound: Combine the available flagship audio system with a flagship automobile, and the result is nothing short of an acoustic triumph. • Active Safety Technology: Available innovative safety technology to assist you in a variety of ways. Target customer: The LS target clients are everyone, young and old — mid 30s and up. The 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport is perfect for: There’s a lot to be said for a car which can be a legitimate limo on the one hand and then deliver some driver satisfaction after you’ve dropped off your passengers. What makes the 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport stand out: For starter, the LS was created to be a luxury sedan from day one without having to break the bank to get into one in comparison to its German competitors. This is the fourth-generation LS from Lexus, and the company proved true to its core: Luxury First. Three words that define the 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport: Fantastic, fast and luxurious.
The Lexus LS 460 F Sport boasts a 12.3-inch split-screen multimedia display.
What do you like the most about the 2014 Lexus LS 460 F Sport: What I like about the F Sport is that Lexus isn’t positioning the F Sport brand as a “hardcore” sports sedan line. Instead, it’s billed as a warmer, more responsive driving experience for the slightly more eager driver. Someone who expects more than just silkysmooth limousine duty from his or her Lexus. Source: Ali Douglas, director of sales, Motor City Lexus of Bakersfield
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ALEXANDRA (ALEX) COLLATZ Discus thrower back at the top of her game
FILE PHOTO
A L L-S TA R AT H L E T E
Alexandra (Alex) Collatz Facts Born May 25, 1993 in Bakersfield. Parents are Alan and Maria Collatz. Younger sister is Tatum. Stands 5 feet 7 ½ inches tall and weighs 170 pounds. Played four years of varsity volleyball at Stockdale, where she graduated in 2011 with a 4.2 GPA. Won the CIF State Meet in the discus in 2010. That same year she set a national record for a 16year-old and placed fourth at the 2010 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships Juniors. Enjoys spending free time with her family, going to the beach, and listening to country music. Major is cognitive science with a business minor. Is a three-time Academic All-American at USC.
Alex Collatz won the women’s discus with a throw of 176-5 (53.77m) in the 2013 Trojan Invitational at Cromwell Field.
By Stephen Lynch
F
or the first time since she tore her anterior cruciate ligament playing volleyball early in her senior year at Stockdale High, Alexandra (Alex) Collatz is back to top form as one of the best women’s discus throwers in the country. This spring, Collatz capped off her junior track season at USC with a PAC-12 championship in the event and then went on to take eighth place at the NCAA Championships. “This was probably my most enjoyable season since high school,” Collatz said. “It’s all been really good. I’ve been training really hard.” Collatz, a dominating force as a high school thrower, overcame the catastrophic injury to her left knee with a lot of hard work and determination. All of that effort has netted her numerous accolades, including two straight years of first team All-America honors in the discus. Collatz set a USC freshman record in the discus — 177 feet 11 inches — in 2012 before finishing fifth at the NCAA Championships with a throw of 181-11 as a sophomore. Despite her early success in her college career, it wasn’t until this past season that Collatz was totally comfortable with everything to do with her throwing. “It took me a really long time come back from (the injury),” Collatz said. “I feel like this is the first year where I mentally, physically, and emotionally was back 100 percent.” Daughter of Cal State Bakersfield Track and Field coach emeritus Alan Collatz and Stockdale volleyball coach Maria
Collatz, the track star’s final throw of 184-3 won this year’s PAC-12 discus title. She dethroned three-time defending league champion Anna Jelmini, a former Shafter High standout. “I was shocked and excited,” Collatz said. “It was a pretty emotional day.” Three weeks after netting her first PAC-12 championship, Collatz posted a throw of 174-1 at the NCAA meet to become the first two-time discus All-American in Trojans’ history. “Being All-American again was awesome, too, because so there are so many talented throwers around the country and it was really rough conditions in Oregon (during the NCAA Championships),” Collatz said. “Things just really worked well this season.” During an early season meet this year, Collatz set a career personal record of 187-6. As a junior at Stockdale using the same weight discus as she currently throws, Collatz posted the best high school throw in the nation (180-9) and then later won the CIF State Championship with a mark of 170-9. She attributes her success to hard work and to the influence of her parents and Christian faith. Collatz doesn’t really have any specific goals for her senior season of track and field at USC. “I just want to continue to compete and get better, and enjoy the sport because I don’t ever want to get the point again where I don’t like it and I feel like it’s more work than fun,” Collatz said. “I want to keep it fun.” bakersfieldlife.com
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WHY I LIVE HERE
ROBIN MATTINGLY Good neighbors, great shows make Bakersfield ideal for this hard-working mother Compiled by Emily Claffy
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obin Mattingly moved to Bakersfield in 2004 after her husband, JD Mattingly, was convinced by a fellow Bakersfieldian that our town was the place to be. A decade later, Robin stays busy raising her sons, Anthony and Robert, looking after the family Rottweilers, Charger and Sumo, and working her way up to her current position as operations manager at Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa. For this homebody, there’s nothing better than an evening watching Netflix documentaries or a low-key night on the town. My neighborhood: The day we moved into our new neighborhood, I heard the doorbell and jumped over boxes and upside down sofas to answer the door. At first, I was disappointed it was not my Internet installer, but that quickly changed when I saw my new neighbors before me with a tray of the biggest chocolate-covered strawberries I had ever seen! They let me know about trash day, offered a ladder to help hang things and welcomed us to the community. Our culde-sac is quiet, but the neighbors are super friendly, just like the majority of Bakersfield. My favorite local restaurant: There are so many! I really don’t like to cook so I love all the options we have in Bakersfield. Moo Creamery is great and is right next to my office so it’s definitely a weekly trip.
comes through town. Between Rabobank Arena and the Fox Theatre, we are really fortunate to be able to catch a lot of great artists, comedians and shows without traveling! I would describe Bakersfield as: A
large city with small-town appeal. The grocery store clerks, gas station attendants and 54
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Robin Mattingly, operations manager at Beautologie Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa, likes to spend her time at home with family.
September 2014
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
The thing I’m surprised most about Bakersfield is: All the great talent that
waiters all go out of their way to say, “Hello again,” even if you haven’t been in in a while. Our city has a compassionate heart reaching past city limits and offers restaurant and worship options that are similar to a larger city. My favorite memory in Bakersfield: Our youngest son was born several weeks early and had an extended stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Mercy Southwest Hospital. I remember being able to bring him home just in time to see his brother graduate from Heritage Preschool. It was an emotional day, and I will always remember it fondly. Bakersfield’s best-kept secret: I may be a bit partial, but it is definitely Beautologie. The skill level, experience and effort the doctors and staff put into everything they do is not something you find anywhere else. I could not be more proud of where I work. The best place for a family outing: We like cosmic bowling, riding bikes at The Park at River Walk and movies in the park. Now that scooters are allowed at the skate park, I’m sure we’ll be checking that out soon, too! Ideal date night in Bakersfield: It’s been a while but dinner at the Steak & Grape, a round or two of pool, and then home for a Jacuzzi dip sounds really fun!
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WHY I LIVE HERE
SORAYA COLEY Cal State Bakersfield provost focuses on campus, community involvement
Soraya Coley is provost and vice president for academic affairs at Cal State Bakersfield.
Compiled by Emily Claffy
S
oraya Coley lived in many places throughout California, both north and south of Bakersfield, for over 25 years. It wasn’t until 2005 that Coley moved to Bakersfield to serve as provost and vice president of academic affairs for California State University, Bakersfield. Coley is responsible for ensuring the quality and availability of education and opportunities for CSUB students and making the school’s educational programs an attractive option for the region. Outside the office, Coley enjoys yoga and working out, as well as reading to unwind. She and her husband, Ron Coley, also volunteer to support youth and create opportunities for them.
My favorite place to be in Bakersfield: CSUB. The reason I say that is based on hours spent and the great satisfaction I get from the various activities that go on here. As I venture away from campus, I enjoy working with a local chapter of The Links, Inc., which helps students be successful in
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school by preparing them for exit exams and acquainting them more in the STEM fields. What I like most about Bakersfield: I grew up in North Carolina but have lived in many places like New York, Virginia, Orange County and Oakland. After my husband retired as a Marine Corps officer, he took a position at UC Berkeley, so I’ve experienced a lot of different locations. The one thing I like most about Bakersfield is the community-like feel. It’s not just the location but also the people who come together to make it better for all. My favorite local restaurant: It really depends on what my husband and I have a taste for. We like Thai House, Elephant Bar, Uricchio’s, Mexicali, Café Med, Red Lobster and Applebee’s. One of the great things about Bakersfield is that there are so many great restaurants to choose from. The thing about Bakersfield that surprises me most is: The size of the city is larger than imagined, and there are
significant economic and cultural contributions that this community makes to the state, nationally and globally
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through its many industries and generous spirit. My favorite memory in Bakersfield: My most valuable and precious memories are the commencement exercises here at CSUB. Seventy percent of our graduates are first-generation college-goers who make many sacrifices for their education. We know the difference it is going to have on these individuals, their families and this community. My favorite community event: There is always something going on on campus, including musical theatre productions, athletic events, the jazz festival and Celebrate CSUB. We are also nationally recognized for our lecture series, which is sponsored by the Kegley Institute of Ethics. Now, with the support of Congressman Kevin McCarthy, we’ve launched a distinguished lecture series with globally recognized speakers, such as Elon Musk. I relax in Bakersfield by: I do work out and yoga during the week but on the weekends my husband and I enjoy a slower pace by lounging at home, reading, watching movies or going out to dinner.
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TA L K O F T H E TO W N
PENCILS OUT, IT’S TEST TIME How parents can help students prep for standardized tests Compiled by Bakersfield Life
A
mid the joys of a new school year, thoughts of ominous blank bubble sheets, finely chiseled pencils, and looming tests may dampen students’ excitement. This month, administrators and a local education consultant weighed in on how parents can allay fears and help students prepare for another year of standardized testing.
Today’s educator knows the importance of assessing a student’s progress in order to meet the needs of that child. This is why testing has been such a high priority and will continue to be under the new Common Core State Standards. Parents seeking to bolster student performance might be tempted to look for a list of magic tips that guarantee high test scores. However, the reality is testing success begins on the first day of school. When students have the correct daily habits, test results take care of themselves. In a home that fosters academic success, parents and families are actively involved in their Robert J. Arias children’s learning. They meet with teachers early in the school year and continue to meet to stay informed of their child’s progress. They communicate with the teacher regarding any special needs of the child and learn what they can do to help support the teacher’s educational goals. By showing interest in their children’s education, parents can spark enthusiasm in their children and lead them to the understanding that learning is important and well worth the effort required. In a home where education is a priority, 58
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THINKSTOCK.COM
GOOD TEST SCORES START AT HOME
there is a quiet place for studying that is free from distractions. Children go to bed early, wake up early and eat a good breakfast to be prepared for the day. Televisions and video games are off and there is an assortment of reading material available. Helping their child become a strong reader is the single most important thing parents can do to help their child succeed in school. When parents establish good habits for academic success in the home, their children
September 2014
will experience that success every day in school, whether they are testing or not. — Robert J. Arias, Ed. D., Superintendent, Bakersfield City School District
PARENTS SHOULD BE STUDENTS’ BIGGEST ADVOCATES Parents, what can you do to help your students through daunting exams as they venture through their educational journey?
First and foremost, you need to recognize the impact and power of parental involvement and advocacy. Being an advocate for your child means taking true action and reinforcing and maneuvering through the established educational system. Sometimes, the question of how much the parents contribute to the child’s education in comparison to the educational system is overlooked. As the owner of an educational services company, this is something I, and my staff, encourage daily when meeting with our clients. We also offer guidance on how parents can assist their student to prepare for exams. Key focuses are: • Building and discussing testing Keri Mestmaker strategies on a regular basis; • Strengthening any skills that have been identified as below-grade level; • Taking the time to emphasize the power and value of homework as a practice of newly taught skills; • Performing regular practice tests at home to ease test anxiety and to regularly assess skills and learning progress; • Using your parental voice and speaking up when you do not understand the educational lingo used in report cards and other work samples that come home. Asking questions will only assist you in assisting your student to make improvements; • Knowing that it is okay to seek professional advice or education outside of the student’s daily school system. Tutoring is an investment in your child’s academic future and for some, it is absolutely a necessity to succeed academically. As the discussion about standardized testing continues, one thing is certain — parents need help to navigate the process and students need help to meet their goals. — Keri Mestmaker, Owner, Make It Happen Services
A CLUB FOR LEADERS Established in 1952, the Petroleum Club of Bakersfield is an integral part of the heritage and history of Kern County. Our Club is a member-owned local facility with a philosophy that reflects our commitment to excellence. Today, we are the premier private business and social club of Bakersfield. Our members are leaders of our community spanning from single to married, young to mature, and working to retired. We are proud to serve not
GO ONLINE FOR HIGH SCHOOL TEST RESOURCES
only our many fine members but the city of
There are a number of resources available to parents to assist their child in preparing for standardized testing. Students preparing for the California High School Exam (CAHSEE) can visit the California Department of Education website at cde.ca.gov where they can find information regarding exam blueprints, released test questions, and study guides. For college-related information on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams, information can be found at collegeboard.com. The site includes practice questions and understanding the basics of the eExams. In addition to the resources available, students should attend classes regularly, take the most rigorous courses available at their school, and stay focused on their studies. These are fundamental and vital practices for academic success. If parents believe their child is falling behind, they should contact their school, as each school provides a variety of programs to assist students if they are struggling. For complete testing information, parents can visit the Kern High School District’s web page at kernhigh.org and click on the “Testing Info” link under “Important Links.” — Roger Sanchez, Director of Research and Planning, Kern High School District
Bakersfield.
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OUR TOWN
"Enrique's Journey," a tale of immigration by Sonia Nazario, is One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern’s reading selection this fall.
A HARROWING JOURNEY One Book, one Bakersfield, One Kern tackles immigration debate with “Enrique’s Journey” By Alana Garrett
E
very year, a book comes along that captures readers everywhere. And every year, one such book is chosen by One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern. This community reading event engages locals in the universal theme of one great book and culminates with a visit from the author. This year’s chosen book is “Enrique’s Journey,” by Sonia Nazario. The non-fiction read follows the journey of young Enrique from Honduras to the United States. Nazario spent five years reporting and writing about Enrique’s journey. After meeting Enrique and hearing about his ordeal, 60
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Nazario decided to take Enrique’s 1,600-mile journey just as he did: atop of seven freight trains up the length of Mexico. She took the journey twice, and each trip took three months. One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern will foster community discussion of “Enrique’s Journey” from September through November with many activities coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month. A panel discussion and other events will allow readers to expand their thoughts about the book and explore other perspectives. With immigration a pressing topic, this year’s selection continues One Book’s tradition of picking books that highlight vital community issues. In 2005, One Book selected Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” in the wake of a censorship challenge the Kern High School District was facing around Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye.” “(The) read of Ray Bradbury's ‘Fahrenheit 451’ was wildly popular, both because it is a much loved novel, and because it gave the community an excellent opportunity to talk about censorship in general terms, without the anger and shouting accompanying the public debate on ‘The Bluest Eye,’” said Kristie Coons, coordinator at the Kern County Library.
Many organizations, such as Russo’s Books, and people like Emerson Case from Cal State Bakersfield’s English Department have partnered with One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern and support the event every year. “(The program) is a celebration of books and of community,” said Mike Russo, owner of Russo’s Books. “By having residents reading and discussing a common theme, it helps create dialogue, perspective, and understanding, while obviously promoting both literacy and the power of a good book.” Russo has partnered with One Book since 2002. For this year’s program, Russo’s was awarded a grant to purchase classroom sets of the youth version of “Enrique’s Journey” for some local high schools. One Book also partners with the First-Year Experience Program at CSUB, where all first-year students read the same book and discuss the book’s themes. “The events that happen under the One Book, One Bakersfield umbrella allow the community to come together to discuss and understand important issues in a positive way,” Case said. “It also allows students, from the elementary level to the college level, to read, learn about, and discuss important issues in a more meaningful, more contextualized way. It takes the art of reading to a whole new level.”
One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern events Documentary screening, 3 p.m., Sept. 3, Beale Memorial Library Auditorium, 701 Truxtun Ave. Documentary tells the stories of Central American children attempting to cross Mexico to reach the U.S. on the tops of trains. Panel discussion - The Border in Crisis: Immigration enforcement and juveniles, 6 p.m., Oct. 15, Dezember Reading Room, Walter Stiern Library, Cal State Bakersfield, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Evening with the Author: Sonia Nazario, 7 p.m., Oct. 30, CSUB Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Book signing to follow. All events are free. For more One Book happenings, visit kerncountylibrary.org.
In 2013, Hoffmann Hospice made over 59,000 PATIENT VISITS. A Hoffmann patient received a visit from one of their Hoffmann care team members every 1.36 days on average.
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OUR TOWN
Victoria Boyd, Madeline Kuney, Ginnie Eschner, Ali Vaughan and Cassidy Grimsley sat down for an inspiring lunch amid Eschner’s impressive art collection in August. The girls are interviewing influential local women for a project called Stories of Bakersfield.
COLLECTING WOMENS’ WORDS OF WISDOM Teens set out to document the history of Bakersfield’s influential women By Hillary Haenes
Photos by Mark Nessia
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hen Bakersfield High School senior Ali Vaughan stumbled upon the “Humans of New York” blog, a site documenting the lives of the city’s denizens in photos and words, she wondered if a similar concept would work locally. And so started Stories of Bakersfield, a student-organized program that encourages teens to document the untold tales of accomplished women in the community. “The stories and lessons that these women have learned throughout their lives seemed too important to go unnoticed
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Clockwise from left, Cassidy Grimsley, Ali Vaughan, Ginnie Eschner, Madeline Kuney and Victoria Boyd shared lunch as the girls recorded Eschner’s stories.
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Continued from page 62 by others, so I wanted to start something that would at least put them into words for others to see,” Vaughan said. Vaughan knew she had a good idea when her friends and classmates, Madeline Kuney, Victoria Boyd and Cassidy Grimsley, jumped at the chance to join in the project. Boyd liked the idea of recording local people’s history. “Stories are lost when people are lost, so being able to write down these stories shared with us and keep the history and work [that] people have accomplished is something I think is really special,” she said. Vaughan’s mom, Jenny, helps coordinate the interview lunches for the girls. She said the events are teaching the girls to “embrace life with passion and be open to new opportunities,” especially as they prepare to head to college next year. The girls’ goal is for more students to become involved and to suggest their own contacts to interview for a greater diversity. Vaughan hopes to catalogue these stories on multiple platforms, such as social media or printed publications to share with others. Vaughan and her friends have sat down to lunch with only a few ladies so far, including local art collector Ginnie Eschner and community service champion Peggy Darling, but have walked away with new knowledge and an understanding of different lives and careers. “All of the women that we interviewed made the most of their circumstances, utilizing their own talents or simply seeing a problem and being motivated to fix it,” Vaughan said. To read about the women that Vaughan and her friends have interviewed, visit bakersfieldlife.com.
Peggy Darling’s Hollywood family legacy is exciting, but even more impressive is her service to the arts and the Bakersfield community.
Don’t miss Bakersfield’s party of the year!
Win free tickets at facebook.com/VillageFest
Presented By:
In Association With:
Sat., Sept. 6th
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Bruce and Linda Jay enjoy outings in their 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06. “Date nights or a trip to the coast on Highway 58, which I really enjoy and she… well, let’s just say she works on her grip strength!” Bruce said. “It provides a nice change in our busy schedule.” 66
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PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
POWER COUPLE
SPECIALS
LINDA AND BRUCE JAY A date in disguise opened doors for this couple By Elizabeth Castillo
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ogether Linda and Bruce Jay discovered that it’s never too late for a second chance at love. The happy couple has been together four years and were married in a small beachside ceremony in Montecito in 2012. Their love began to blossom on an unofficial first date at Tejon Ranch. Both Bruce and Linda spend much of their time giving back to the Kern community. Bruce is the founder, president and CEO of Valley Republic Bank and serves on boards for the Kern Economic Development Corporation and J.J.’s Legacy. He’s the chairman of the Board of Directors for the Kern County Cancer Fund and a trustee for the Memorial Hospital Foundation. Linda Jay is the CEO of the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS and a member of the Bakersfield Downtown Rotary club. She served as the mayor of Tehachapi for two years and was an active member of Tehachapi’s city council for a decade. This charming and easygoing “power couple� spend their small amount of free time enjoying the company of their cat, Sadie, and relaxing with their family, which include six children and nine grandchildren with another one due in September. How did the two of you meet? Bruce: We briefly met through the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS nine years ago. I was starting a business and needed some Realtor direction, and Linda was the authority. Linda: When we met, I was brand new at my job and was worried about giving him the correct information, even though I was the “authority.� What was your first date like? Bruce: Our first date was unofficial. It was four years ago at an annual meeting
for the Kern Economic Development Corporation. We have our annual meeting at Tejon Ranch’s Hacienda, and I reserved a small table outside. I asked her if she was alone and said I had an extra seat. We ate dinner together. I made it seem spur of the moment, but it was all planned. How did you know he was the one? Linda: At first, I wasn’t really looking. I was content and had been on my own for eight years. As a matter of fact, he tried calling to ask me out to lunch and at first, I didn’t return his phone calls. But then, the more time we spent together, I saw he had a tenderness about him. I couldn’t believe there was someone like him. How do you balance work, kids/grandkids, and time together? Bruce: I think we totally understand each other’s professional responsibilities and obligations. That helps a lot. She never complains about all the community functions we attend together and when she has events, I try to reciprocate. Because of our professions, we understand each other. What do you love most about your husband? Linda: His sincerity. What I see in him is a genuinely caring, tender-hearted man who truly has a heart of service. They are characteristics that create a true sense of trust and friendship. I love that about him! What’s your favorite weekend activity to do together? Bruce: I really like to barbecue, and we spend time together with the grandchildren while they swim. Our professional lives are pretty intense so weekends are mostly a time to relax and recharge. It’s usually church on Sundays, too. What are you most proud of about your husband? Linda: That he’s fearless. He’s never afraid to try something new. When he’s committed to something, he never gives up. It’s a remarkable trait. What’s your secret to a happy relationship? Bruce: Having a strong common faith. If a couple stays focused on true Christian living, it tends to keep egos, selfishness and other relational killers at bay.
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FOR A CAUSE
Joseph Crisostomo II and Stephanie White Crisostomo received much needed aid from the Mendiburu Magic Foundation after their daughter Willow was born prematurely.
A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC Micro preemie and her family persevere with Mendiburu Magic Foundation’s help By Elizabeth Castillo
Photos courtesy of Joseph Crisostomo II
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hen Willow Lux Crisostomo was born too early and faced serious health complications, her family was in desperate need of some magic. “My wife and I had been trying to get pregnant for five years. She then became pregnant with twins, losing one at four months and delivering the other extremely premature at 22 weeks,” said Joseph Crisostomo II, Willow’s father. The Crisostomos were overjoyed to have Willow in their lives but also distraught about her health complications and the loss of her brother, Lincoln. Once Willow was born, the Crisostomos faced an uphill battle, but some of their worries were alleviated, thanks to the Mendiburu Magic Foundation, a Bakersfield nonprofit that helps families with children who are dealing with a catastrophic or life-threatening illness. Willow was born at Mercy Southwest Hospital in Bakersfield on Nov. 6 but suffered from heart and eye complications. She weighed only 14 ounces at birth and was moved to UCLA
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Medical Center in December. “Her chance for survival was less than seven percent. She needed heart surgery and laser surgery on both of her eyes,” her father recalled. Crisostomo was a middle school teacher at the time and commuted to visit his wife and daughter three days a week at the hospital. The Mendiburu Magic Foundation was quick to relieve some of the burdens the family faced. Willow Lux Crisostomo “The Mendiburu Magic at 8 months. Foundation reached out to us through a social worker. It happened within the first two or three days of our stay at UCLA. The foundation helped with gas cards when I was commuting Thursday, Friday and Sunday nights,” Crisostomo said. The family eventually decided to get an apartment in Los Angeles and received more help from the Mendiburu Magic Foundation. “The foundation gave us grocery cards and helped to get
Willow Lux Crisostomo was born at just 22 weeks after her twin brother Lincoln miscarried at four months.
us stocked up on what we needed,” Crisostomo said. After the first long stay in Los Angeles, the Crisostomos were able to return to Bakersfield in March but have since made two follow-up trips to the hospital. They no longer had an apartment in the city, so the foundation helped with lodging, too. “We were sleeping in the hospital near Willow on cots provided to us by the hospital. The foundation asked if we needed anything, and we really wanted to get a night’s sleep in a bed,” Crisostomo said. “The foundation had a hotel stay set up for us within the hour.” Now 9 months old, Willow is a healthier preemie weight of 11 pounds 9 ounces. The Crisostomos are proud to see their daughter improving and her dad can joke about his daughter’s new size. “When she was born, medical equipment didn’t fit her because of her size. Now, she’s a nice big fat chunker,” Crisostomo said. The Crisostomos remain grateful for the foundation’s support. The organization still checks in with the family to see how they are doing and making sure the Crisostomos are well. The aid the foundation provided for the Crisostomo family is a product of the proceeds from Pyrenees-Fiesta. The Pyrenees-Fiesta is the Mendiburu Magic Foundation’s annual fundraiser. The party began as a fun way to combine the cultures of Brian Mendiburu, the organization’s founder, and his wife Valerie. Brian Mendiburu is of Basque descent, while Valerie Mendiburu is Hispanic. The event features food from Jacalito Grill and Wool Growers, an auction and live music as well. An air conditioning unit, a private birthday party at a Bakersfield fire station hosted by firefighters, trips to the beach and use of vacation homes are just a few of the fundraising items donated for the event in the past. Mento Buru, a local band whose genres range from punk and reggae to mambo and jazz, will provide tunes for the event. This year, the event will be held at 6 p.m., Oct. 6, at Bakersfield City Firefighter’s Hall. Proceeds go to the Patient Assistance Fund, which helps Kern families like the Crisostomos with the added expenses of dealing with illness. The Crisostomo family hopes the foundation continues to do great things for the community and help other families like them. “I can’t stop talking about how great the organization is. For those who contribute their money, it’s good to know that families benefit first hand and I hope the Mendiburu Magic Foundation continues doing their good work,” Crisostomo said.
Saturday, November 1st Rabobank Theater Shopping 10am to 3pm Cooking School 3pm to 5pm
Tickets available September 15th Starting at $15 Vendor and Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Mira Patel mpatel@bakersfield.com
661-395-7586
Lisa Whitten lwhitten@bakersfield.com
661-395-7563
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FOR A CAUSE
First local Walk/Run Like MADD 5K aims to raise funds, DUI awareness By Jorge Barrientos
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22-year-old respiratory therapist named Princess, who was the primary provider for her family. A 25year-old pregnant mother-to-be. A 6-month-old daughter and sister to five, including a twin.
What do all of these people have in common? These are just some of the innocent lives taken away from Bakersfield this year at the hands of people driving under the influence. In 2013, Kern saw 15 DUI-related fatalities. This year, Bakersfield has seen 10 DUI-related fatalities and 73 DUI-related injury crashes and is averaging nearly 12 DUI arrests per day, according to Bakersfield Police Department statistics from early August. In an effort to raise awareness, generate funds to stop drunken driving and underage drinking locally, and provide
Faith Mozeke Heath embraces Rene Aguirre in the halls of Kern County Superior Court following the arraignment of alleged drunken drivers who prosecutors say killed their loved ones in separate accidents. Aguirre lost his girlfriend Vanessa Carrillo, and their unborn baby girl, while Mozeke Heath and her husband Donte Heath, (right), lost their daughter LayJah Heath. 70
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support to victims and survivors of drunk driving crashes, the Bakersfield/Kern County affiliate of Mothers Against Drunk Driving will host its first-ever “Walk/Run Like MADD” 5K on Sept. 20, at The Park at River Walk. “This is our moment to say enough is enough,” said Carla Pearson, program coordinator and victim advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Kern County. “We need to stop this madness on our roadways.” In 2002, Pearson’s stepson, 23-year-old Adam Pierce, was killed by a repeat DUI offender. Pearson has campaigned for victim’s rights in and out of the courtroom ever since. Her fight led to changes in California law in 2002 that warned convicted DUI offenders that if they drove while drunk and someone died, they could be charged with murder. Locally, MADD Kern County has assisted in more than 500 cases involving DUIs since 2011. Pearson hopes the 5K also shows residents they can help make a change locally. The inaugural event is supported by the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, Bakersfield Police Department, California Highway Patrol and local sponsors, including Bakersfield personal injury law firm Chain | Cohn | Stiles. — Jorge Barrientos is the marketing director for the Bakersfield personal injury law firm Chain Cohn Stiles, and a board member in charge of marketing for the MADD Kern County “Walk/Run Like MADD.”
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
A WALK WITH A MESSAGE
When someone is killed by a drunk driver, it isn’t just the deceased who’s affected, Mia Rodriguez said. Countless other people are, too. For Mia, she lost her husband Salvador when a drunken boater crashed into his idle boat in 2010. And their daughter didn’t get to meet her father – Mia was pregnant with their first child at the time of the crash. This Father’s Day, Mia had to explain why Salvador wasn’t here and why he couldn’t visit his daughter at preschool like the other students’ fathers. Mia’s nephew blames himself because they were celebrating his 11th birthday at the lake the day of the crash. Then there are the witnesses, law enforcement officials and countless friends and relatives shaken by the death. “It affects everyone. We lost everything when he was killed,” Mia said. “There is not a day goes by that we don’t think about Sal.” She tells her nephew and other children that what happened at the lake that day was only the fault of the drunken driver, Justin Mark Ennis. He was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison in the first murder conviction in the country for boating under the influence. Mia says she never expected she would lose her husband in such a way and hopes no one
Kern County District Attorney Lisa Green stands next to a portrait of Salvador Rodriguez who was killed in a DUI boating crash on Lake Webb. The DA's office held a press conference after the sentencing of Justin Mark Ennis. else does. One way to try and stop that, she says, is by joining her in Bakersfield’s first Walk/Run Like MADD. Her team name is “SALvation.” For more stories on how your neighbors have been affected by drunken driving accidents, visit bakersfieldlife.com.
How to join Walk/Run Like MADD
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
‘Don’t let it be too late’ The car with twin 6-month-olds in the back seat stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of South Union Avenue and Berkshire Road on Jan. 19. But 50-year-old Alfredo Moreno, driving behind them, did not. The repeat offender was allegedly driving under the influence – more than two times the legal limit – and slammed into them. LayJah Heath suffered blunt force trauma in the crash and died four days later. She left behind two brothers, three sisters – including her twin – and grieving parents. Faith Mozeke Heath, LayJah’s mother, now has a message: Don’t wait for this to happen to you. “It’s a 100 percent preventable death,” she said. “People never think it’s going to happen to them. They have blinders on. I’m telling you: Don’t wait for this to happen. Don’t let it be too late. Don’t let it be you.” Moreno is facing five felony charges, including second-degree murder, with jury trial sched-
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
‘It affects everyone’
Faith Mozeke Heath speaks at a victim’s awareness rally held at the Liberty Bell. uled for October. Faith has been speaking out against drunken driving since the crash, including speaking at the Crime Victims' March in April and will take part in Bakersfield’s first-ever Walk/Run Like MADD.
Walk Like MADD events are taking place in cities across the country, but this is a first for Bakersfield. Registration is $15 for those ages 5 to 21; $20 for those who are 21 and older. Corporations and groups are encouraged to form teams of 10 or more and are asked to raise $100 each through donations. The goal for the inaugural walk and run is to raise $25,000. You can participate in three ways: • Register to walk as an individual or form a team. • If you can’t attend, you can sign up online to raise money as a virtual walker. • Give a one-time donation. To sign up, donate or for details, visit www.WalkLikeMADD.org/Bakersfield, or find Bakersfield Walk Like MADD on Facebook.
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2014 women’s fall
fashion & beauty trends
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ummer days are fading away but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to lose its luster. Bold prints, fun footwear, big necklaces and adventurous textures are in style this autumn. Try a new pair of boots or heels to pump up your look. Freshen up your hair and makeup with tips from local pros. Bottom line: Don’t be afraid to be flashy with your fashion this fall. Local boutiques and salons shared their favorite looks for the season with Bakersfield Life this month. Whatever your personal style, you’ll find something in our fall fashion section to inspire you.
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THE AMERICAN JEWELRY COMPANY
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
“This look is worn by a woman who is confident about what she likes and can easily mix a bold piece with timeless classics.” — Carl Saenger, owner Laura Kovacevich is wearing: Marco Bicego 18-karat yellow gold and diamond earrings, $4,690; Simon G. 18-karat yellow gold and diamond butterfly pendant, $4,950; Marco Bicego 18-karat yellow gold and mother-ofpearl 36-inch chain, $3,875; Marco Bicego 18-karat yellow gold 47-inch chain, $5,635; Simon G. 18-karat yellow gold raw diamond bangle bracelet, $7,150; Roberto Coin 18karat yellow gold citrine and diamond ring, $2,700. 3200 21st St., Suite 500, 661-325-5023, americanjewelrycompany.com
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BELLA AT THE MARKETPLACE
“This knit poncho coupled with leggings and a fabulous pair of booties represents a super chic, yet comfortable look for fall. With an edgy purse and standout jewelry, this outfit is complete.” — Heather Abbott, co-owner
9000 Ming Ave. Suite K-6, 661-664-4974, bella-at-the-marketplace.shoptiques.com
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PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
Kelly Geis is wearing: Gypsy05 printed knit poncho, $215; Free People shirred leggings, $128; Free People booties, $248; recycled vintage couture necklace, $220; Butterfly Rock ring, $20; Rebecca Minkoff purse, $195.
DAHLIA, A BOUTIQUE “Fall is our favorite time of the year for fashion. These pieces transition smoothly from late Indian summer to crisp autumn nights. Perfect for all ages, great for work or play.” — Linda Lubic, owner Ashley Rasmussen is wearing: boho chic embroidered top, $41.99; LA Idol skinny jeans with taupe embroidered roses, $64.99, Not Rated Harness Glitzy boots, $79.99; handmade necklaces and belt by Dust ‘n Diamonds, $19.99 to $49.99.
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
101 E. Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi, 661-822-6195, on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest
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E AVEDA SALON | SPA “E is Bakersfield’s only Aveda lifestyle salon and spa exclusively carrying Aveda’s full line of all-natural beauty and wellness products and services. Tawnie’s look is subtly romantic with golden warmth.” — Dee Dee Todd, owner Tawnie Dorsett’s Hotheads extensions ($700) are cut in long romantic layers styled in soft waves with Aveda Damage Remedy Daily Hair Repair ($29), Smooth Infusion Glossing Straightener ($24), Brilliant Emollient Finishing Gloss ($28), Control Paste ($24) and Air Control Hair Spray ($26). Her hair color is a creamy beige, pale blonde produced by full spectrum Aveda Color. Aveda’s palette of bronze and gold mineral makeup was used to give Tawnie a warm, sun-kissed look. Her coral lip shade adds a pop of color (unit prices range from $16$30). Hair extensions, cut and style by Erica Rodriguez; hair color by Misty Fincher; makeup by Megan Korbel.
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
Shops at Riverwalk, 10930 Stockdale Highway, 104, 661-654-0317, ESalonSpas.com
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ESSENTIELS SPA ET BEAUTÉ
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
“Essentiels Spa et Beauté is a full service salon, medi-spa, and beauty boutique offering a true European spa experience in an urban chic setting.” — Dee Dee Todd, owner Gloria Minor’s short cut gets texture and lift with Spray à Porter ($36) by Kérastase while Short Mania ($35) sculpting paste defines its shape and CitySwept ($29) finishing spray by Bumble and Bumble gives it modern control. Her hair color is a brilliant raven black achieved by L’Oréal Professional color. Her makeup is a signature Flawless Face by Laura Mercier ($104). Her sultry, sexy eyes are achieved with Kevyn Aucoin lashes ($25) and Frankie Rose waterproof winged gel liner ($24). Warm Poppy lip liner by Laura Mercier ($23) and Valentine lip gloss by Frankie Rose ($16) finish the look. Hair by Lauren Grippi; makeup by Diana Wiley. The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Suite K-7, 661-654-0321, EdaySpas.com
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GET DRESSED BOUTIQUE
Reyna Halpin is wearing: oversized, knit cardigan in a wine blend, $33.99; black three-quarter length sleeve, hi-lo chiffon top, $28.99; premium skinny denim in medium wash, $31.99; fashion cowgirl boots in camel, $38.99; vintage style pocket watch necklace, $18.99; four tone chevron bangles,$14.99; multi-color Aztec tote, $36.99. 125 W. Tehachapi Blvd., Suite A, Tehachapi, 661-822-4880, shopgetdressedboutique.com
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PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
“Get Dressed for fall with this seasonal look. Our boutique offers the latest fashions for women at affordable prices. Stop in or go online to shop our weekly arrivals.” — Amber Estep, owner
IN YOUR WILDEST DREAMS
“This look can cause the boys and the girls to stare. Using animal prints and bold colors, Gabbi rocks this outfit that is both sexy, sophisticated and fun.” — Ginger Martin, general manager Gabryelle Dominey is wearing: vintage Lennie LNY dress, $36; vintage hot pink belt, $8; Hobo International handbag, $65; Betsey Johnson two strand necklace, $28; eagle necklace, $26.
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PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
1723 18th St., 324-6484, buywildestdreams.com
September 2014
KAUR BOUTIQUE
“This year it’s all about bold statement jewelry, olive greens, chic clutches, and a mixture of texture and prints. Kaur Boutique has everything to take you from classy sophisticated to edgy and versatile!” — Navi Sanghera, owner
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
Cassie McAuley is wearing: olive peplum dress, $72; nude peep toe pumps, $178; metallic gold clutch, $48; statement necklace, $42; gold stacked bangles, $22. 9000 Ming Ave., Suite I-2, 661-664-7800, facebook.com/KaurBoutiqueBakersfield, Instagram: kaurboutique
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LOLO’S “Fall is here in a fun, comfortable way! Jenna pairs her favorite printed pants with a classic black top and statement necklace. Freshen up your wardrobe with this season’s looks from LoLo’s.” — Lori Malkin, owner Jenna Antongiovanni is wearing: Veronica M black open shoulder top, $60; Veronica M printed palazzo pants, $79; turquoise necklace, $27; Sheila hobo bag in sienna, $298.
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
4917 Stockdale Highway, 661-835-5656 (LOLO), shoplolos.com
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SALON SALON
“This look represents our fun, creative and artistic side. Braids, ropes, twists and knots come together to form this technical creation. Yes, that is all her hair!” — Cassie Dunlap, owner Alex Cleaver’s hair is styled with Paul Mitchell Hold Me Tight Finishing Spray and Awapuhi Shine Spray. Hair and makeup by Cassie Dunlap.
PHOTOS BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
5301 Office Park Drive, Suite 300, 661-323-8662, salonsalonbakersfield.com
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SIMPLY ME “If you have a flair for the finer fashion trends, this stunning Vintage Havana blouse will have you covered season after season. At Simply Me we offer unique, affordable and trendy fashions.” — Crystal Aronson, owner Crystal Aronson is wearing: Vintage Havana blouse, $48; MEK Denim jeans, $135; Stella black pump, $48; Towne & Reese bar necklace, $22; Wind and Fire bangles, $26 to $34.
PHOTO BY BRIAN REDDEN
4021 Calloway Drive, 661-588-2775, Facebook.
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SUGARDADDY’S
Heidi Wiegel is wearing: Tango Mango tropical print ruffle maxi dress, $162; Onex handmade shoes, $102; Enchanted Imports earrings, necklace and bracelets made from Czech beads, $29 to $89. Hair by Jenny Grider at Pizazz Salon & Spa, 661-322-3048. Makeup and nails by Tara Fabiano, 661-889-1199. 5512 Stockdale Highway, 661-325-8300, Facebook.com/Sugardaddys
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PHOTO BY MAKENZIE BAREFIELD
“Sugardaddy’s provides a look not defined by age, but by a craving for individualism and style.” — Shari Stacey, owner
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Giving with a click
PG&E, TBC Media launch Kern Gives contest to award cash to local nonprofits By Bakersfield Life
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ulling out your checkbook was once the most common way to give to your favorite charity, but this fall, you can help your pet cause with just a click of a mouse. Pacific Gas and Electric Company and TBC Media are teaming up to present the first “Kern Gives” contest — a voter-driven charity competition culminating with five nonprofits receiving big checks. The contest will recognize groups doing good work in these five categories: arts and culture, education and youth development, environment and animals, human services and community benefits, and health. After an online nomination period, evaluation and voting, one finalist will be selected in each categories. The nonprofit that garners the most votes will take home $10,000. The other charities won’t P R E S E N be left empty handed; the remaining top four charities will receive $2,000 each. John Wells, The Bakersfield Californian’s senior vice president of revenue and marketing, said the “people’s choice” competition is a lot like the popular “Best of” annual contest — just for nonprofits. “Bakersfield and Kern County is well known as a very charitable community. This is your chance to recognize the charities and nonprofits that you feel really
make a difference in the quality of life for our residents,” Wells said. PG&E spokeswoman Katie Allen said the utility is excited to recognize local charities and to partnering with TBC Media. “We share a common vision to spotlight local Kern County nonprofit organizations and celebrate the many ways they serve our community,” Allen said. “Our hope is that more Kern County citizens become aware of the various opportunities to give back within our community.” Here’s how the contest works: • Nominate your favorite charities starting Sept. 15 at Kerngives.com. The nomination period ends Sept. 26. • After nominations close, a six person panel comprised of local community members will narrow down the nominees based on stringent criteria. • The panel will pick six finalists in each category. The finalists will be posted online and you can T E D B Y vote for one nominee in each category from Oct. 13 through Oct. 24. • The winning charities will be revealed at a reception on Nov. 13. “Take a moment to vote online for your favorite charity,” Allen encouraged. “This program will give nonprofit organizations an opportunity to highlight their mission and receive a grant from PG&E. It’s a win – win!”
Who can win Kern Gives To be nominated, a charity must meet the following criteria: • Be based in Kern County and serve the area. • Have 501(c)(3) status with the IRS. • Have a charitable focus, not advocacy. • Be within PG&E’s service area (you can find a map of the utility company’s local area at Kerngives.com). Questions? Email Mira Patel at mpatel@bakersfield.com
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omen play integral roles throughout Bakersfield, and their influence can be seen and felt everywhere from the softball fields to the boardrooms. These six accomplished local women shared their personal and professional insights with Bakersfield Life. They discussed the challenges they faced in attaining their positions and the qualities it takes to succeed in their fields. They spoke candidly about overcoming barriers to achievement and the people who helped them along the way. Although they come from diverse backgrounds and have different goals, they share a level of passion, commitment and desire to affect positive change in our community.
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here aren’t enough hours in the day for Norma RojasMora, 44. The mother of four pulls double duty as the resident service coordinator for the Kern County Housing Authority, assisting families in finding affordable housing and supportive services, and as the executive director of the Housing and Opportunity Foundation of Kern County. Established three years ago, the nonprofit foundation provides funding sources to supplement the federal and state dollars the Housing Authority receives. More than 90 percent of the money raised through the foundation goes directly to families to help with education, life skills development and preparation for employment. Rojas-Mora has been with the Housing Authority for 16 years and the nonprofit since its inception. Raised in Mettler and married 21 years to Jaime Mora, the UCLA graduate and daughter of farm workers is invested in her community. She’s the president of Latina Leaders of Kern County and a member of seven local nonprofit boards that align with her clients’ needs. For her, being an advocate means “being that voice at the table for those who can’t be there.” Developing relationships and reaching out to community partners is a big part of the job. Putting personal bias aside and focusing on what benefits clients is key. Rojas-Mora believes it’s important to help clients learn to navigate the system, allowing them to advocate for themselves as they progress. This advocate said the families she serves come from all backgrounds, races, and ethnicities. Some are field workers, seniors, or emancipated foster youth. Some folks have disabilities. With each person she encounters, RojasMora remembers the words a supervisor told her years ago: “The only difference between you and the people we serve is a paycheck.”
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akersfield College President Sonya Christian didn’t know exactly where her career would take her, but as an immigrant from India, she knew it would be a long way from home. Christian, 47, came to the U.S. with a degree in math from the University of Kerala in Kerala, India. She recalled the awe of coming to a country where she’d have the privilege to vote and “education is a right.” Some of her early days in the U.S. were marked with bouts of homesickness, and she’d write long letters home at night. Her family encouraged her to stay and follow her dreams. “I always had the support to make it happen,” Christian said. She earned a master’s in applied math at USC and a doctorate at UCLA. Christian taught math at Bakersfield College in 1991, moving into an administrative role as dean of sci-
ence, engineering, allied heath, and math. She continued her administrative career in 1993 at Lane Community College in Oregon but returned to Bakersfield College as president in 2013. She has one grown daughter. What’s the secret to her success? Breaking the glass ceiling requires “immersing yourself” and becoming knowledgeable in your field, Christian said. Executives must be flexible, adapting to the demands of their professions and understanding job-related issues at a detailed level. There’s no substitute for hard work. The president said women vying for upper management positions face special challenges when it comes to settling clashes at work. It’s important to convey a firm, decisive manner while maintaining a sense of humanity — even when issues are tough. “Women tend to resolve issues of conflict with a depth of empathy that could be viewed as tentativeness,” she said. “You need to develop a sense of confidence and self awareness to hold those approaches until you’re recognized and understood.”
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softball scholarship to Cal State Bakersfield brought Maggie Cushine to town, but her affection for the community kept her here. The 47-year-old Arizona native’s been married to Michael Cushine, 51, for 22 years. The couple has two teenagers, a son and a daughter. The seasoned mom is also the Boys and Girls Club of Kern County’s resource development manager. After more than five years with the Club, she’s the voice of experience. She believes mothers who support their children’s aspirations, even when it means making sacrifices, reap rewards. Taking a page from that playbook, she recalled how her husband worked a second job to pay for flying lessons when their son Mickey, 18, took an interest in planes. The teen earned his pilot’s license last January. The former Casa volunteer applies the same wisdom on a grander scale at work, writing grants reflecting the club mem-
bers’ interests. When teens wanted musical instruments and a recording studio, Cushine made it happen, and they released their own CD this summer. Through the generosity of corporate and private foundations, the Club has been able to offer cooking classes, a community garden, and a robotics program where kids create fully functional robots using Legos. The club assists the children with their academic needs as well. Cushine said they service 52 locations, including 49 school campuses, providing summer and after-school care, as well as tutoring. And to promote quality time without breaking the bank, they’re working on a backyard project, creating a venue to show films at no cost to families. Cushine says conscientious moms know bonding with youngsters is vital. This mom’s motivation to partner with families comes straight from the heart. “I wish I hadn’t had to go home to an empty house (as a kid),” she said. “To give these kids opportunities is what I love about my job.”
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ometimes your first love is hard to forget — at least it was for Amanda HockettStewart, 33. The former Stockdale High School graduate garnered a softball scholarship to Cal State Fullerton in 1999. She returned to Bakersfield in 2008 to work on the other side of the backstop coaching softball at her alma mater. Hockett-Stewart, a shortstop, was a standout at Fullerton, placing in the top 10 in their records books in multiple categories. She spent nine years coaching club teams and giving private lessons in Orange County, but the desire to be close to family brought the Mustang home. She’s been married to Don Stewart, 51, for nearly two years; the couple has an 8-month-old daughter. The sun-kissed coach left Fullerton with a criminal justice degree, and she considered working in probation until she realized that gig might interfere with softball. Female athletes need a strong work ethic, she said, a drive for consistent practice and plenty of self-confidence. As they develop on the field, they acquire skills that transfer to success later in life, such as teamwork, self-discipline, and respect for authority. Although she wants her team members to take away life lessons, Hockett-Stewart also encourages them to enjoy their time in the sun. She makes strong connection with her players and follows their careers once they move on. Hockett-Stewart believes it’s also important to model the spirit of good sportsmanship, and she spends a lot of time supporting her players. “It’s about winning and losing,” she said. “But it’s also about the love of the game.”
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ell them college prep.” That’s the advice nurse practitioner Patricia Alvarado got from a friend on what courses to take when she enrolled in her freshman year of high school. She didn’t know what college was, but she followed the advice. It changed her life, setting her on the right academic path for her career. The Bakersfield native has worked in medicine for 45 years. Alvarado earned her registered nursing degree from Bakersfield College in 1969, interning at Los Angeles County General Hospital. She completed the nurse practitioner’s program at UC Davis in 1978, then received her family nurse practitioner’s license. She worked in Los Angeles and Northern California but returned to Bakersfield in 1989. The nurse practitioner spent 13 years at Kern Medical
Center and then joined Dr. Jasmine Moini’s practice four years ago. The 66-year-old has been married 40 years to Robert Alvarado, 61. The couple has two grown children. Breakthroughs in medicine over four decades have changed standards of care. Alvarado said folks in the medical field must embrace rapid advancements. They need emotional fortitude, stability, and endurance to meet the rigors of the job. Empathy, along with willingness to listen to patients, picking up on clues that lead to diagnoses, is also required. Women leaning toward careers in medicine must be prepared to make sacrifices to reach their goals, she said. Alvarado worked at Bunny Luv carrot factory to get through school. The outspoken professional said it’s vital to have a network of colleagues, friends, and family to support you – and happy activities to counter the stress of the job. She also finds comfort in her faith. “It’s easy to feel helpless when you realize you can’t save everyone,” she said. “Maybe that’s OK with God.”
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Bakersfield Artists Bakersfield Life readers share their works of art
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rom whimsical to realistic, readers sent us impressive artwork this fall. Peruse our gallery on paper in this feature and go to bakersfieldlife.com to check out more submissions from our talent Bakersfield Life community.
Crosses by Jan Bentley, acrylic, rhinestones and crystals.
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“Charles and Sons,” by David J. Vanderpool, graphite pencil drawing
“Molly and Me,” by M.Ray Riley, acrylic. 104
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“Anger Origin,” by Josiah Lorsung, digital painting
“Joyful Giving,” by Aliza McCracken, Prismacolor pastel
“Manzanitas,” by Kelly Wonderly, acrylic.
“Goo,” by Betty Rae Valez, marker and pen
“Sheep Mens Picnic,” by Patti Doolittle, pastel
“Camouflage Toad,” by Ernie Bentley, mosaic tile pot
“Angel of Mercy,” by Kent Porterfield, stained glass
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“Presley Jade,” by Jon L. Heikkila, pencil
“Koi,” by Ronald Marvin, photo graphic
“Great Blue,” by Nancy Putney, gouache watercolor
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September's First Friday in the downtown arts district, featuring Latination at Metro Galleries, is one of the most popular First Friday events of the year.
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Seis Latination celebrates six years of art, Latin culture love
By Miranda Whitworth
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t’s one of downtown Bakersfield’s busiest nights, and it’s all in the name of Latin art. Thousands of pedestrians will flood 19th and Eye streets as Metro Galleries hosts the sixth annual Latination art show on Sept. 5. It’s no coincidence that this annual, juried exhibit lands on the same day as the First Friday art walk; it’s also no coincidence that September’s First Friday is the busiest of the year. Metro Galleries Creative Director Don Martin said the Latin-themed art exhibit attracts a crowd. “Last year, the Bakersfield Police Department estimated there was between 4,000 and 4,500 people downtown for Latination and First Friday,” Martin said. “Normally (First Friday) has about 1,500.” Martin knew from the get-go that he had something special with Latination. “I don’t think you often hit something that’s so successful in its first year. But, something just triggered a nerve,” Martin said. “There was an excitement from people because it was about our culture, and it was open to everyone to participate.” Christina Sweet, a local artist whose medium of choice is acrylic on canvas, has participated in Latination several times and has taken home two awards, including Best New Artist in 2011 for her portrait of Frida Kahlo. “The judging is pretty intimidating. You have a lot of competition, and it’s a big show. I know a lot of the artists who participate so it is always a nice surprise when they announce the winner,” Sweet said. While Latination is a show honoring the values and aesthetic of Hispanic culture, par-
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ticipants are from every walk of life. Sweet is not Latina, but she is native to Bakersfield and knows its strong Latin community. “I enjoy the music, the food and the family aspect. Most Latino people I know have an amazing family base, and I admire that,” Sweet said. “This is a celebration of that heritage.” Artist Jorge Guillen, a native of Lamont, has competed in Latination every year. In 2010, he took second place with his painting of the Mexican revolutionary Emiliano Zapata. For Guillen, his artwork is a form of activism, and he is more than happy to bring his message to Metro Galleries. “This gives you a chance to express yourself visually, social“The Blessed Backboard” by ly and politically. Everything is Marissa Magdalena Sykes before it intertwined in this show. I was hung for the annual Latination don’t separate them,” he said. exhibit at Metro Galleries last fall. Guillen’s pieces are a filled with bright contrast and behind every brush stroke is meaning. “I treat it all as a chance for activism, I try to at least. This 110
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Lamont native Jorge Guillen sees his artwork as a form of activism. In this photo, Guillen shows one of his works to a visitor at Latination in 2010, the year Guillen took second place in the juried exhibit.
is the most important part of art. Pretty clouds and flowers are nice, but if they have no substance behind them, what is the artist trying to say?” he said. While Guillen is working hard to spread ideas, he doesn’t mind enjoying the light natured event that seems more like a family party than your average art gallery exhibit opening. “This is the biggest show of the year. There are people who never go out, but they will go to Latination. I have met people that I only see once a year at Latination. It is a big reunion with a lot of camaraderie between the artists,” he said. The festive, friendly atmosphere is something Martin set out to cultivate from the beginning. Latination is full of community participants and the judges Martin recruits are locals who appreciate and support arts in Kern County. “A typical juried exhibit is judged by four to five prominent artists or pointy-headed art types, and I just didn’t want to do that. I have always brought in people from all walks of life,” Martin said. “(Latination has) a panel of community member who come in and pick their top 10, and we go from there. I think this is something that has always set us apart.” One of Martin’s personal rules when it comes to running a gallery and planning events is to always keep things exciting. While it may seem counterintuitive, Martin planned on 2013 being Latination’s fifth and final year. “I seriously thought it would be the last year because I want to keep things fresh, I don’t want them to become something boring,” he said.
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Don Martin, creative director of Metro Galleries, hangs up “Indian With a School of Fish,” an acrylic piece by Alberto Herrera, for a past Latination juried art exhibit.
“So I put it out there and had so many people call, email me or when they would see me, they would say, ‘You can’t stop it, you have to keep it going.’” Martin is glad he listened to those pleas. The message and cultural celebration that Latination encourages is starting to spread across the country. “Every year, the art gets better and with the advent of marketing on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, I am getting art (submissions) from all over California and now from New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania,” Martin said. “Yes, the event is here in Bakersfield, but people from all over are starting to participate.” Latination will be in full swing from 5 to 10 p.m. Sept. 5 at Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St., with music by Mento Buru and free Mexican food and a nohost bar by El Pueblo Restaurant. Disclosure: Miranda Whitworth was on the community judging panel for Latination in 2013.
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BUSINESS PROFILE
Andy Barkate, president of California Retirement Plans, recently published a book titled, “Retiring in America: It’s All About Income.”
CALIFORNIA RETIREMENT PLANS Who is California Retirement Plans? We believe in a truly balanced approach to retirement planning. That’s what makes us different from others in the financial services industry. At California Retirement Plans, balance means adding safety nets and guarantees to our client’s retirement accounts. We believe that clients should overemphasize the use of the safe-guaranteed investments and reduce their exposure to riskier investments. By doing so, one can achieve the goals of safety of principal, along with solid long-term gains.
California Retirement Plans 2222 E St., Suite 3 661-631-4355 calretirement.com
How long has California Retirement Plans served the Bakersfield area? CRP has been serving the Kern County area throughout Bakersfield and Ridgecrest for more than 30 years.
What does California Retirement Plans specialize in? We believe most investors have a goal of building their retirement plan for the purpose of supplying income in order to maintain their lifestyle throughout their retirement years. Because of this, we emphasize the construction of plans designed to supply stable and consistent income when you need it. California Retirement Plans provides you with the confidence that comes with knowing that your income will always be there. What makes California Retirement Plans unique? We believe that each of our clients is unique. They come 112
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
with their own set of goals, concerns, fears and hopes. We approach them as individuals that need a retirement solution tailor made for them. Most firms in the financial services arena simply pigeonhole clients into one of several pre-made solutions. We think that establishing a long-term relationship, built on open dialogue between our firm and our clients, is the only way to go. We strongly believe that this is the only way that our clients’ needs can truly be met. We go a few steps further than most financial planning firms, recognizing that most families have several moving parts within their financial lives, such as pensions, 401ks and IRAs, life insurance, health insurance, savings and investments, not to mention Social Security and Medicare. Understanding you and all of your moving parts will help us build a complete retirement package that will best optimize those moving parts to come up with the best solution for each client. What can clients expect when they walk in your office? They can expect a warm, inviting environment. Anticipate having a frank and open conversation about their financial lives. Understanding what makes you tick, both financially and personally, will help design a retirement income plan that will last the rest of your life. Tell us about “Retiring in America: It’s All About Income.” Andy Barkate, president of California Retirement Plans, recently published a book titled, “Retiring in America: It’s All About Income.” In the last 30 years, Barkate has worked with individuals and has noticed that many fail in retirement planning because of bad information, bad advice and bad assumptions. The book carefully breaks down the many components that can be confusing in today’s economic environment. Readers can come away from the book with a clear, concise picture of how to navigate uncertainty to find financial security.
BUSINESS PROFILE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
HEALTHSOUTH As a new CEO at HealthSouth, what have you personally found to be most surprising about this hospital? HealthSouth is definitely Bakersfield’s best-kept secret — and it shouldn’t be. Being the only rehabilitation hospital within 100 miles is a big deal. I see a lot of local nursing homes using “rehabilitation” in their facility name and offering it as one of their services, but I’ve been surprised to see with my own eyes that we offer a different level of care as a hospital than what you’ll find at a nursing home. For example, our doctors specialize HealthSouth in physical therapy medicine and see 5001 Commerce Drive patients no less than three times per week, 323-5500 and we have a five-to-one patient-to-nurse healthsouthbakersfield.com ratio with 24-hour licensed nurses. In addition, we have more than 20 licensed physical, occupational and speech therapists working with patients 15 to 18 hours per week in therapy. Nursing homes do not have these requirements. Is there anything new or different at HealthSouth in the next 12 months? I’m pleased to announce that we will be opening a brand new wing early next year consisting of 20 private rooms, as well as building another gym and expanding our current gym as part of the construction. This will increase our capacity to 114
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Martha Samora, RN, CPHQ, FACHE Chief Executive Officer
86 beds, which makes us one of the largest freestanding rehabilitation hospitals in the United States. I am also excited to share that we will have a new oncology rehabilitation program at HealthSouth. Our staff is currently working through intensive training and certification through the STAR program. We’re pleased to be able to add this specialty to our wheelhouse along with our Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certifications for stroke and pulmonary rehabilitation.
What is one piece of advice that you would give our readers, should they find themselves or a family member in need of rehabilitation? I have two pieces of advice for readers. First, remember that the best long-term setting for a family member who has suffered an illness or injury is at home, whether that is in their own home, living with family, or in an assisted-living environment. This starts by choosing a rehabilitation setting with this goal in mind — one that offers caregiver training and has an excellent track record for getting patients home. Second, be an advocate for your own care. Speak up! If you need rehabilitation, ask to be treated at a rehabilitation hospital.
BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
RUNAWAY GYPSY
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nspired by teenage dreams of running a boutique together, sisters Brookey and Chellsey Holmes created Runaway Gypsy. The trendy shop opened off Rosedale Highway on June 21 and this stylish pair couldn’t be happier to share their boho-chic passion for fashion with Bakersfield.
You also offer online shopping, what can customers expect from your website? Our online customers can also always expect great customer service. We respond to emails and inquires from online shoppers within hours. While we know online shopping can at times be risky, we are happy to answer any questions regarding our products. We offer free shipping on all online orders, along with free next day drop-offs for local Bakersfield residents. What are some of your favorite looks for the fall? Since fall is our favorite season, we are beyond excited for all of our fall looks to hit the racks. One of our favorite fall trends this year is leather. We have some amazing leather pieces all at affordable prices. Leather is an amazing fall and winter staple because it is so versatile. It can be worn in a laid back look paired with a sweater or graphic tee and a pair of ankle boots, or dressed up with a silk blouse and heels. Another style we’re loving is printed silk 116
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Opening Runaway Gypsy boutique is a dream come true for sisters Chellsey and Brookey Holmes. shorts or a long sleeve tunic dress paired with boots or ankle boots. What kind of shopping experience do your trunk shows provide? Trunk shows have been an amazing experience that everyone (including ourselves) has been loving so far. We offer an incredibly unique experience for those of you who love shopping and a girls’ night in. Our trunk shows provide you and all your girlfriends with a night of shopping the hottest seasonal trends in the privacy of your own home. Or you always have the option to
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PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
Who does your boutique cater to? Runaway Gypsy has a little bit for everyone and every style to choose from. We have styles ranging from boho-chic, to your business casual fashionistas. While offering the most competitive price points, we believe any fashion forward woman can, and will, find something they love at Runaway Runaway Gypsy Gypsy. 2724 Landco Drive First-time 978-3809 shoppers can runawaygypsy.com expect to always be greeted immediately by a friendly face and always be treated with kindness and respect. We believe our customer will always come first and pride ourselves on great customer service. We will always be helpful, honest, and happy to help our customers.
book Runaway Gypsy for the night and host an in-store trunk show. Whether we come to you, or you come to us, hosts will always receive 30 percent off their entire purchase that evening. What element of style are you bringing to Bakersfield? We offer all of the hottest trends for all seasons while keeping incredibly affordable prices. We are bringing in a variety of name brands not yet found in Bakersfield stores. These brands bring a mixture of styles, including party dresses and event outfits.
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BUSINESS PROFILE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BANKING’S FUTURE
Veteran banker Bob Meadows has been named vice president and manager of Mission Bank’s Riverwalk Business Banking Center at 11200 River Run Blvd. in Bakersfield.
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ission Bank recently opened its eighth business banking center in southwest Bakersfield’s Riverwalk development. This is Mission Bank’s third business banking center in metropolitan Bakersfield. Others are located in Shafter, Mojave, Ridgecrest, Lancaster and Helendale. The Riverwalk BBC opening and Mission Bank’s celebration of realizing a remarkable 61 consecutive quarters of profitability demonstrate Mission Bank’s strength and commitment to serve businesses in the High Desert and Southern San Joaquin Valley. Veteran banker Bob Meadows has been named vice president and manager of the Riverwalk BBC. In this Bakersfield Life business profile, Meadows discusses the cutting-edge services offered at the Riverbank BBC, Mission Bank’s future and the future of banking. Bank
Mission Riverwalk BBC
How is Riverwalk BBC cutting edge? In addition to being the location for Mission Bank’s agriculture division, the Riverwalk BBC features four work desks for everyday banking needs, including taking deposits, opening new accounts, sending wires, accepting payments, and all other traditional banking services. A full-service ATM, with a night drop deposit drawer, is also available. The Riverwalk BBC represents a new concept in banking. Recognizing the banking world is changing and relying more
11200 River Run Blvd. 661-410-6021 www.mission bank.com
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Mission Bank’s Riverwalk business banking center gives cutting-edge service
on electronics, and less on cash and checks, Riverwalk BBC is half the size of a typical branch. Mission Bank is ahead of the curve in this new banking world. Helping that happen is one of the most dynamic developments in my more than 35-year banking career. I am excited and grateful for this opportunity. How is Mission Bank incorporating technology and innovation? At Riverwalk BBC, Mission Bank has redefined the banking experience. There is no traditional teller line. Through the use of technological advances, combined with highly trained and experienced staff, Mission Bank creates a banking experience that is more suitable to our business clientele. It allows them to sit across a desk and conduct their banking transactions the way they conduct their other professional business. Mission Bank’s goal is: “To fuel and grow vibrant and prosperous communities.” How is that being achieved? This goal is our core purpose. We all want to live and work in vibrant and prosperous communities. Providing the financial services to support business and business growth is at the core of accomplishing this. As small- and mediumsized businesses have access to capital, they can expand, hire new employees, enter new markets, and drive profits. Mission Bank’s products and highly dedicated and capable teams of employees help this happen.
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
PA S T I M E S
Carol Langston specializes in hand-crafted jewelry, using materials including sea glass, copper and beads.
ALL THAT GLITTERS Jewelry makers show their personal style with glamorous pieces By Alana Garrett
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PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
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ewelry is more than just an accessory, it’s an expression of personality. From handmade charms to beaded necklaces, jewelry making is hot hobby and many people build shining pieces that compliment their unique style. Local craft stores offer classes on the basics, and some skilled beaders and jewelry makers quickly turn their hobby into a business. “Beading is becoming more and more popular with Pinterest coming into society over the past few years and when people make a jewelry piece, they feel a sense of accomplishment,” said Maria Cabrera, event manager at Michaels on Ming Avenue. Thrifty sensibilities inspired local jewelry crafter Carol Langston to start making her own adornments almost 30
A sea glass necklace with a hand-carved heart and 14-karat gold-filled wire made by Carol Langston.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER MEINERS
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
years ago. “I decided I didn’t have enough money to keep buying jewelry, so I thought, ‘I could make that,’” Langston said. What began as a practical hobby grew into a trade. Today Langston, a retiree from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, peddles her jewelry to rave reviews on Etsy at DesigningIt.etsy.com. Langston also hammers, stretches and polishes copper wire into necklaces, bracelets and rings. “There’s a love for it. There is always something new to try out,” Langston said. For Bakersfield native Jennifer Meiners, jewelry making has become a fullA copper rosette bracelet by time job. Carol Langston. For her hand stamped and carved metal charms and pieces, Meiners uses metal sheers, sandpaper, and a special tool from a family member. “My most used tool is a hammer I acquired from my father-inlaw who passed away the same day my daughter was born (Feb. 16, 2011),” Meiners said. “I could use a specialty hammer — which would be easier — but I chose to learn how to hand stamp metal with that one.” For her designs, Meiners turns to “everything positive in the world” and strives to recreate inspirational feelings. Personalized necklace On her online store — by Jennifer Meiners. 2tinyhearts.etsy.com — Meiners’ hometown, home state charms are popular, as well as her bridal party custom pieces. “My advice to anyone who wants to make jewelry is practice definitely makes perfect. As cliche as that is, it couldn’t be more true!” Meiners said. Gayle Tape, another local jewelry crafter who sells and enjoys her wares, began making jewelry in 2006 after she discovered her passion for creating pieces on a girls’ retreat. Some of her pieces are on Jewelry with quotes from display at a local Jack Sparrow are some of salon and she is workJennifer Meiners’ bestselling pieces. ing on new designs for holiday boutiques. Tape’s favorite adornment she’s made is beach-themed piece. Working with shells she picked up on a Cancun beach, Tape glued
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Swarovski crystals and pearls on each one and fashioned a necklace out of her blinged beach finds. “It is a magnificent piece that draws a lot of attention,” Tape said. Langston’s favorite style of jewelry is also beachy — soft pieces she creates from sea glass. “I drill holes in them and make Jewelry making them into a bracelet or necklace. I classes find a lot of it at Laguna Beach Learn the ins and outs of along the shore line,” Langston said. accessories at local jewelryLike Meiners, Langston and making classes. Tape’s advice to first-time jewelry • Michaels, $25, michaels.com. makers is practice and get the right • Beads Unique, $20, equipment. facebook.com/BeadsUnique, “Do your homework, purchase 399-6523, 308 Roberts Lane. good tools and shop for quality supplies,” Tape said. “Don’t be afraid to make a mistake … be creative and think outside the box.” Local craft stores offer supplies and classes for beginning jewelry makers. Michaels hosts an array of beading tutorials, including knotting and wire wrapping. “The classes are a great one-on-one experience. Because there are very few people in the room and you are able to
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Earrings at Beads Unique.
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
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focus on the teacher,” said Cabrera of Michaels. Beads Unique, a local shop, offers classed on Wednesdays. On top of classes, Beads Unique has a large selection of gemstones and vintage beads that are over 50 years old. “We have a lot of beads ... and probably some things you have never seen before,” said store owner Shirley Worley.
PHOTOGRAPHY IN MEXICO From the Collection of SFMOMA Experience Mexico’s distinctively rich and complex tradition of photography from the 1920s to the present. Photographs by Mexican artists such as Manuel Álvarez Bravo, Manuel Carrillo, and Graciela Iturbide, as well as international artists including Tina Modotti and Edward Weston, reveal a vibrant synthesis of art and politics.
Graciela Iturbide, La Nuestra Señora de las Iguanas, Juchitán, Oaxaca, México (Our Lady of the Iguanas, Juchitán, Oaxaca, México), 1979; Collection SFMOMA, gift of the artist; © Graciela Iturbide
September 11, 2014 - January 4, 2015 at the Bakersfield Museum of Art 1930 R Street | Bakersfield CA 93301 | 661-323-7219 | bmoa.org
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Photography in Mexico from the Collection of SFMOMA is organized by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. The exhibition is made possible by a grant from The James Irvine Foundation and by Bank of America.
HOME AND GARDEN
Red Door Interiors designer Kelly Archer shows off a bedroom set, featuring a gallery of four small pictures in place of one large piece. Archer recommends serene and calming art for bedrooms.
AN EYE FOR ART Professional advice for picking the right art for your home By Zach Esparza
Photos by Mark Nessia
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f your house is feeling a little bare or boring, it’s time to dive into the art scene to give your home a little local flair. If you don’t know where to begin, don’t fret. The most important factor to choosing art for your home simple: buy the pieces that attract your attention the most. “Art is very personal, know what you like,” said Kelly Archer, an interior designer from Red Door Interiors. “Some people like landscapes while others like abstract. You have to fall in love with the art.” Al Mendez, a manager of Icehouse Framing Galleries,
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cautions customers to stay away from buying art “that matches the furniture and instead go with something you actually like”. Trusting yourself is also important when you’re deciding where to hang art. Use your own know-how to hang your paintings. Every time you walk through your house, you’ll be rewarded with a sense of pride. If you’re not particularly happy with your choices, fortunately you can always change it. Where you display your centerpiece depends on you. Pick the most meaningful spot and ignore the “bigger is better” mantra. “The size of your centerpiece really doesn’t come into play. It could be really bright and small or it could be really big and subtle,” Mendez said. If you don’t have any idea what type of art you are interested in, Mendez suggests starting with landscapes. “They work the best for most people. They take you to a different place,” Mendez said. Nowadays, the art trends include Tuscany themes and a
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Choosing the right frame is the final step to polishing up your artwork. The Ice House Framing and Gallery has approximately 500 different corner samples. bakersfieldlife.com
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Ice House Framing and Gallery managers Al Mendez and Lance Jones.
MTS Solutions congratulates this year’s scholarship winners. We wish them success in their undergraduate careers.
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rise in abstract art. But trends don’t speak for the individual. “Art is really personal, so there should be no trend. Everyone should love what they buy,” Archer said. Keep your individual flair but also follow these guidelines. To make your home more inviting, bright and light colors will lighten the ambiance. Likewise, darker colors will do the opposite. For the most affordable art, the best place to go in the 21st Century is, of course, the Internet. Yet, Mendez recommends keeping it local because there are always artistic surprises in our community. You can stop by Downtown Bakersfield’s design stores and galleries, and First Fridays when artists come out to show their works. If you already have some great artwork in your home, framing is the last element to make your art looked as polished as possible. Art that stands out should have a frame to match it, and the simple pieces should have simple frames. Taking a picture of your piece and sizing it up to your frame choice is a good way to create the perfect pair without leaving anything to imagination. Through it all, it’s best to follow your intuition and have your own vision for your home. In the end, it will give you the most satisfaction at home in your own gallery.
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E N T E R TA I N M E N T
SIP, SIP, HOORAY! CASA’s ever-popular Wine, Women & Shoes returns in October
• 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 4 • Home of Jay and Divisha Patel • Tickets $125, $175 for VIP, $1,400 for a table of eight. • Visit winewomenandshoes.com/casakc or call the CASA office at 631-2272. Also check Wine, Women & Shoes Bakersfield’s Facebook page.
The popular Wine, Women & Shoes fundraiser is back on Oct. 4 to benefit CASA of Kern County. 128
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PHOTO BY HOLLY CARLYLE
Wine, Women & Shoes
By Heather Frank
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hat do a sauvignon blanc and a silver stiletto have in common? Which platform pump pairs perfectly with a pinot noir? Bakersfield’s most fashionable philanthropists and socialites alike will soon find out when they put their best foot forward at the fourth annual Wine, Women & Shoes fundraiser on Oct. 4, hosted by CASA of Kern County at the home of Jay and Divisha Patel in Seven Oaks. Charming “shoe guys” will tempt guests with the season’s must-have trends in shoes and accessories on silver platters. Shops, including local favorites Butterfly Rock, KMA Sunglasses, and Macy’s, will showcase and sell spectacular merchandise from heels to handbags. National favorites are not to be missed during this shopping experience include Giuseppe Zanotti and Casadei by Carmel by the Sea, Hammitt by Susie O’s Handbags, Handcrafted by Nishima and Good Morning America favorite Rustic Cuff. Selected wineries from Napa to Paso Robles will pour signature blends and vintages before guests take their seats for a runway fashion show. Twenty percent of each marketplace purchase will benefit CASA programs in Kern County. Live and silent auctions will round out the festivities. Now in its 10th anniversary year, Wine, Women & Shoes is a fast growing wine tasting luxury fundraiser created by a
group of women in Napa Valley. The fundraiser benefits CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates of Kern County, which has served abused and neglected children locally since 1994. The program matches foster children with trained advocates. “CASA volunteers dedicate over 11,000 hours of volunteer time annually,” said Colleen McGauley, CASA executive director. “What is significant about these hours is that they focus on the youth, overseeing their strengths and weaknesses, while keeping a long-term vision of ‘family’ alive.” CASA volunteer Amber Dixon volunteered to make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children. She said CASA and the children made a great impression on her life. “Being a CASA volunteer you learn just how resilient children are, and it really changes the way you see the world,” Dixon said. CASA volunteer Cholli Williams called the program, “the worthiest of causes.” “(CASA) connects humans with the hope that a life can be forever altered because someone just took the time,” Williams said, So slip on your stilettos and raise your glass of chardonnay for a fabulous cause. — Heather Frank is the event chairwoman for Wine, Women & Shoes benefiting CASA of Kern County.
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HISTORY
A CONTROVERSIAL VICTORY Kern County Union High School earned a unique win in 1916 state football championship By Ken Hooper Photos courtesy of Bakersfield High School
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ern County Union High School soundly defeated Porterville High School on the football field on Dec. 2, 1916 — the first of 35 section championships for the school. Next on the calendar was the choice to play either an exhibition game against a Los Angeles-area high school or dive into intense practices to prepare for the state championship game scheduled for New Year’s Day 1917. The influence of East Coast Ivy League colleges was being felt on the West Coast, where Stanford University, the University of California at Berkeley, and most of the other West Coast colleges played rugby. Following suit, many of the high schools in central and northern California had switched from American rules football to rugby. Kern County Union High School, informally referred to a Bakersfield High School, played rugby for the 1911 through 1914 seasons but eagerly switched back to football in 1915 when the University of California dropped rugby. The 1916 season began in the second week of September as Coach Dwight ‘Goldie’ Griffith and assistant coach David Urner led Captain Tod Mosier to a 63-0 victory over Visalia High School and bested Hanford High School 58-0. The 1916 team finished the season undefeated, outscoring opponents 283-34. After defeating Porterville High School for the Valley championship 61-13, Bakersfield anticipated a run at the state title against San Diego High School. But San Diego High had a different idea. The Dec. 23, 1916 issue of The Bakersfield Californian delivered the news that no championship game would be played. “According to a statement made by [San Diego High School] Coach Price … his men have already played twelve games this year and he thinks this is too many. The men are all tired and the San Diego coach is willing to 130
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Edward Radebaugh, class of 1918, played left end under the guidance of Coach Dwight “Goldie” Griffith.
let things stand as they are,” the Californian reported. According to Griffith’s notes and recollection, the San Diego coach’s statement in the newspaper did not match his telegram sent to the school. In coach’s notes, Griffith penciled in these insightful remarks on the 1916 season. “It was San Diego in the South that openly declared themselves as the State Champions. So our school official challenged San Diego and claimed they had no right to
September 2014
declare the honor until they had met and defeated Bakersfield. The reply to our challenge read: ‘Team disbanded: Bakersfield unknown in the South: We have the Championship.’ Our principal immediately jumped into his car with his ‘dander’ up and went to Los Angeles and contacted the President of the [California Interscholastic] Federation and asked him to call a league meeting at once to settle the question of San Diego’s refusal to play. [The] Meeting was held and San Diego
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An illustration in the Kern County Union High School’s 1917 yearbook, The Oracle, celebrated the football team's triumphant season.
was taken off her pedestal and her High Hat and Bakersfield was awarded its first State Honors.” As expected, the news of the California State Football Championship of 1916 being awarded to Kern County Union was not well received in San Diego. The Evening Tribune newspaper of San Diego ran the headline, “It Is to Laugh! Bakersfield is Given Crown.” “Technically San Diego High School yesterday lost the state championship in football. But not on the gridiron, “ the Tribune reported. “The defeat of the hilltoppers occurred within the four walls of a little red school house near or at Riverside, California, U.S.A. The council of the California interscholastic federation met … and after a weighty discussion that lasted 1 minute and 14 seconds, awarded the state prep. football title to Bakersfield high. San Diego high forfeited its claim by failure to play Bakersfield, they said. Which brings one to a point where he can ask: “Who is the California interscholastic federation?”’ The brief closed with these less-than-kind lines: “With San Diego high, failure to play Bakersfield was occasioned by reasons of pity and compassion. There has already been enough deaths incurred by the gridiron game in the season deceased and
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Continued from page 131 buried. Why murder a whole team and, they say anyway, that the Bakersfield kids are a nice lot personally.” No championship games were played 1917 and the 1918 championship game was canceled due to an epidemic of the Spanish Flu. Due to the logistics, expense, and lateness in the season for the football championship games, the California Interscholastic Federation ended the state football championship series at the conclusion of the 1927 season and did not resume the series until 2006. But Bakersfield would go onto win — on the gridiron — the California State Football Championships in 1920 through 1923, 1925, 1927 and 2013. — Ken Hooper is a history and archiving teacher at Bakersfield High School. He is also the past-president of the Kern County Historical Society, historian for the Kern Veteran’s Memorial Foundation, and coordinator for the Kern Veteran’s Oral History Project.
All programs are held on a Saturday. Visit www.kchistoricalsociety.org for location, time, and reservation.
Kern County Historical Society’s Programs • Sept. 20: History of Taft and the Serena Story tale, presented by local historian Guy Lingo • Oct. 18: Stories from Rancho El Tejon, presented by Don Jose Jesus Lopez • Nov. 15: “Yesterday and Today, Betsy Johnson and the Tubatabal Indians of the Kern River Valley” • Jan. 17: Historical plaqueing in Kern County, E Clampus Vitis • Feb. 21: Teacher, historian Gilbert Gia on Marcia Rittenhouse Wyn • March 21: Field trip to Buena Vista Museum with John Stegal • April 18: Field trip to Union Cemetery with historian John Codd focusing on Kern County residents who served as Civil War soldiers
Kern County Historical Society’s 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, 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 Veteran’s 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.
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THE BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART CHILDREN’S ART CLASSES Story and photos by Mark Nessia
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or years, the Bakersfield Museum of Art has strived to bring art education to students, inspiring young minds to be creative thinkers. The museum offers a variety of artistic projects in a friendly environment year-round. In 1994, it introduced its art summer program, an eight-week program that meets five days a week for three hours a day. In 2003, it unveiled a side-by-side summer program tailored for pre-kindergarten children and their caregivers, encouraging parent-child interaction. The museum’s teen art camp, introduced in 2013, is specifically designed for teenagers, encouraging them to collaborate with other young artists to fully realize their potential. After-school art programs are also available for students ages 6 to 17. The programs are designed to allow students to explore and express their creativity through a variety of methods and mediums. “Our teachers give instruction, lessons in technique and a little nudging,” said education coordinator Liz Sherwyn. “The rest is up to the students’ imaginations.”
Twelve-year-old Piero Accinelli pencils his design onto a linoleum block before carving it with a chisel.
Lyle Wescott, 9, works on his mandala. Wescott chose blue, yellow and orange, which represent calm and happiness. 134
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Zachary Hartford and Sydnie Rice, both 8 years old, act out their story about two bears that go on a date using shadow puppets.
Classmates film each others’ shadow puppet performances. Students are encouraged to collaborate and work together in creating their puppets and stories.
Born to Be Wild Fierce takes on style.
Instructor Emily Becerra shows her students the results of a finished stop-motion project.
Nine-year-old Audrey Horn works on her mandala in the Cunningham Gallery where the light is plentiful. Mandalas are meant to give good feelings and banish bad feelings when viewed.
Combination animal sculptures created by students in the teen art classes. Students draw two animal cards then combine the animals to create a new species.
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IN MY CLOSET
BETTY BYROM Heels, wigs and chandeliers fill this real estate queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500-square-foot closet
Betty Byrom is surrounded by crystal chandeliers and more than 200 pairs of shoes in her closet. 136
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By Hillary Haenes
Photos by Mark Nessia
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orking hard as a real estate broker and owner of People Realty, Inc. for 38 years, Betty Byrom has certainly earned her luxurious lifestyle. Four years ago, she and her husband, Stanley, sold their 17,000-square-foot mansion and downsized to a smaller home with a master bedroom closet, measuring a spacious 500 square feet alone. The Byroms have been married for 57 years and had four sons together. Because Betty has always been outnumbered by boys, Stan recognized the need for his wife to have her own special place in their home. Ever since then, Betty has had a big closet. At 73 years old, Betty is still as sassy as ever, and this five-foottwo petite lady still wears heels daily. Crystal chandeliers illuminate more than 200 pairs of size 6 1/2 shoes that line the cherry wood shelves in her walk-in closet. “I don’t get rid of anything,” said Betty, who has more clothes Betty Byrom said wigs made and shoes stored away it simple to get ready as a in her garage. busy professional woman. Connected to her closet is a makeup room with artwork-covered walls. “Life is good, I have no complaints,” Betty said. Prized possessions in my closet: At my age, I don’t have favorite possessions. But having a big closet is important to me because I like to see all my shoes and wigs. I never really cared about jewelry, so I’m not at all into accessories, unless you count wigs. I have more than 200 pairs of shoes, mostly Carlos Santana and Nine West because they are comfortable and you can run around in them all day. I’ve always worn heels — I don’t even own a pair of tennis shoes. And, I can still run in heels at 73. My tallest heels are five inches, but average about three to four inches, and I have all kinds from strappy, dressy heels to casual wedges. My husband, Stan, used to go online and order on Nordstrom’s website and get all the colors in one style. My personal style: Business casual and jeans in my down time. I probably dress too young for my age. I wore short skirts until I was 70 because I have OK legs, and I probably still would. How long it usually takes me to get ready: It only takes me 30 to 40 minutes to
Many of Byrom’s outfits were designed for her locally. get ready because I wear a wig. I have plenty of hair, but I started wearing my wigs 15 years ago because it was easier to get dressed instead of doing my hair every morning. All I had to do was put on makeup and clothes. That was when I was working 12 to 16 hours a day, seven days a week. I would wash my hair, then pin it up and throw on a wig. I have about 200 wigs with different styles. It’s a great idea; that’s why celebrities and almost everyone wears wigs or hair extensions these days. Fashion icons: I don’t really look up to anyone regarding style. The trick to looking put together: Color coordinating. My favorite designers: Carlos Santana shoes and local designer Clothes by Levie, who owns Levie’s Dressmaking & Alterations. Levie has been making my clothes for many years. She would go to L.A. to get the materials and make my business suits because I was too busy to shop. Plus, I don’t like to shop for clothes — I’d rather read a book or work. I still have most of my suits because some things never go out of style. My fashion faux pas: Wearing jeans too often.
Byrom said she doesn’t own a pair of tennis shoes. One look in her closet proves it.
Something every woman should have in her closet: Clothes that fit properly. Fashion advice: You do not need to be in style because styles come and go!
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REAL PEOPLE
FIGHTING SPIRIT Attorney recalls her days as a boxing champ By Zach Esparza
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Attorney Rosetta Reed was pleased to make the cover of "Kern County Sports Chronicles," a book highlighting Central Valley athletes. A boxer from 1976 to 1981, Reed's career is highlighted in a chapter inside the book.
approval. Reed recalled it took at least 15 minutes for the crowd to finish tossing all their cash in the ring after her breakout fight. With this crucial victory in the bag, “Rosi Reed” was ready to face off against the World Boxing Board’s No. 1 contender, Bonnie Prestwood. “At the championship fight, unlike the
September 2014
PHOTO BY MARK NESSIA
R
osetta Reed is a petite, professional attorney and a natural conversationalist. In her list of accolades lies an unexpected title, boxing champion. Reed was born in Tehachapi and grew up in Mojave. A resident of Bakersfield since she was 16, Reed worked for a local newspaper called the Rosedale Roadrunner and eventually married Tony Reed, the publication’s owner. Reed’s boxing career began when she and some friends decided to watch amateur matches in 1976. Reveling in the fight, Reed was hooked. Two weeks later, Reed was at the Munoz boxing gym on East California Avenue, and her husband became her manager. “I liked boxing because I liked the exercise, and it kept me tone. And I was really competitive,” said Reed, who started boxing at age 26. Women’s boxing was tough, not just in the ring, but as an up-and-coming sport. Society preferred the bouts between men rather than women. Reed was a pioneer of the sport but not before some intense training. Working with Paul Munoz for a couple of years, Reed switched trainers to Chuck Wiggins in 1979. For Reed, the gym work was easy, but the running was the toughest part of becoming a champion. She often ran from Hart Park to Bakersfield and even along the California coast in the sinking sand. “I hated it every step of the way,” Reed said. Finding fights was like pulling teeth. Not only were there few women fighters, but Reed’s flyweight division (108 lbs - 112 lbs) had hardly anyone at all. But her big moment came at last in 1978 when she fought Nancy Thompson and knocked her out in just two rounds. “The first couple of times I was in the ring, I was nervous. I looked at the other fighter and thought, ‘What am I doing here?’ But I knocked (Thompson) out in two rounds anyway,” Reed said. In that era of boxing, spectators threw money into the ring after the match to show
previous times in the ring, I felt confident and much less apprehensive. I felt mentally and physically strong, like I could win,” Reed said. The World Boxing Board Championship was held in Bakersfield in 1980. Reed, the underdog, surprised everyone with a stunning upset against Prestwood to become the
PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSETTA REED
Kern County boxer Rosetta Reed faced off against No. 1 contender Bonnie Prestwood in Bakersfield in 1980.
No. 1 woman flyweight boxer in the world. “It was in the sixth round and I gave a beautiful left hook. Prestwood’s eyes crossed, and she fell back into the ropes, and that’s when I knew I had won the championship,” Reed said. Local writer Bryce Martin penned a book titled, “Kern County Sports Chronicles” and featured Reed on the front cover. An entire chapter of is devoted to Reed’s epic battle for the championship. “That was a nice little surprise, and it’s a little impressive to tell people I’m on the front cover of a book,” Reed said with a grin. With the peak of her career behind her, Reed slowly phased out of boxing, switched to training and formally retired in 1985. There wasn’t much money in the sport and Reed had decided it was time to move on. She started taking college classes little by little in 1988. She attended law school “just for fun” and graduated in 1997. On top of her boxing and college success, Reed had four children, who, in turn, produced 11 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Donning a nice collared shirt or blouse instead of gloves, Reed specializes in wills, trusts, probates, some bankruptcy, and estate planning today. She still taps into her tenacity and ability to stay focused that she honed in her boxing days. “Being an attorney is much harder. Boxing is about three things: get in shape, hit and try not to get hit. An attorney has much more things going on, and there is a lot more work,” she said. Though she’s out of the ring for good, Reed maintains her competitive edge by holding poker tournaments, winner takes all. And you can bet she isn’t going to lose without a fight.
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PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
PERSONALITY
Judy McCarthy gave Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, a congratulatory kiss after he was elected House majority leader in June.
BAKERSFIELD’S LEADING LADY Mrs. Kevin McCarthy puts family first
I
n July, Judy McCarthy created a Facebook page, One Smile At A Time For David Marcus, calling on the virtual community to flash a smile of encouragement for a local man in his second battle with cancer. Her effort generated photos of celebrities, politicians and everyday folk moved by the developmentally disabled man’s plight. Friends say the gesture is emblematic of wife of Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield. Simple, not showy, caring and effective. “I recently left a job and had casually mentioned to Judy that it was a hard step. My last day was the day after Kevin had been elected Majority Leader,” said close friend Sally Thornberry, wife of Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas. “The first text I got that morning was from Judy, letting me know that she was thinking of me. It was typical Judy that with all she had going on in her own life, she was focused on somebody else.”
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Judy McCarthy
PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDY MCCARTHY
By Lisa Kimble
The women met in the Washington trenches and bonded immediately over the juggles of family, jobs and life in the congressional fishbowl. “Judy is the ultimate ‘there you are’ person, always looking for a way to support the people around her, and treats
everyone with respect,” Thornberry added. Friends closer to home agree. “Judy is unaffected by the notoriety, always keeping her focus on her convictions of faith, family and friends,” said Alison Norris, whose daughters attended Bakersfield High School with the McCarthy children. For 49-year-old Judy McCarthy, keeping things grounded as a political spouse for more than a decade has meant emphasizing the familiar and connecting to families with similar values. She doesn’t consider herself a Washington socialite. “That’s not who we are, and it doesn’t define us. I make a real point of getting to know the spouses in a sincere way,” Judy said. And by all accounts, despite their ever-rising family profile, the couple’s dynamics haven’t changed. They have lived in the same house in the same southwest Bakersfield neighborhood for 17 years. Judy grew up in Frazier Park as Judy Wages, one of four children. Her parents still reside there. “My dad is the perfect example of hard work. He worked for National Cement. I didn’t grow up wealthy, but we have a very close family, and my foundation of faith came from my mother,” Judy said. Sparks of chemistry flew between Judy and Kevin in a biology class at Bakersfield High School.
“I actually liked one of his friends, but you know, Kevin’s personality wins you over, and he doesn’t give up,” Judy said with a laugh. The high school sweethearts married in August 1992 and are parents to son Connor, 20, a junior at Georgetown University, and 18-year-old Meghan, a senior at their alma mater. Over the years, as Kevin ascended the political ladder, a family strategy was put in place. “We always made sure that one of us needed to be flexible,” Judy said. Kevin traveled home most weekends, and Judy shuttled their daughter Meghan south to doctors for treatment of Lyme Disease. “She has had her battles, but she is so strong, and we are very fortunate,” Judy said. In Washington, Judy is a trustee at Ford’s Theatre where she uses the same home-grown volunteer spirit she has employed here in the district. “Judy has true passion for our mission to celebrate the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln. We are delighted to have both her and Congressman McCarthy’s involvement in our important work,” said Ford’s Theatre Society Director Paul R. Tetreault. Although both are likeable, easy going and friendly with grins as wide as the Washington Circle, Judy is the yang to Kevin’s yin. She is happy to leave the glad-handing to her gre-
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PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS
Judy McCarthy and Rep. Kevin McCarthy enjoyed a hearty laugh and a few tears with son Connor and daughter Meghan after McCarthy was elected House majority leader.
Continued from page 141 garious husband, whom she describes as essentially a starstruck kid at heart. The McCarthys, who are most relaxed next to a body of water, enjoy scuba diving and favor Cayucos as a Central Coast escape. They also like to read. A lot. Judy is fond of James Patterson novels, but said her favorite book is the Bible.
She may consider her husband the more social of the two, but she has navigated the social media waters adeptly. She posts Bible verses and quotes of encouragement almost daily. “God put on my heart as an outreach,” she said of what she sees as her ‘ministry.” “I am not the politician’s wife. I am my own person and a Christian.” Not one easily impressed despite having rubbed some pretty famous elbows, Judy admits to being a little thunderstruck as she walked the marble steps of the U.S. Capitol and attended a White House Christmas party. “I thought about all the people who have walked those steps and to sit on the furniture at the White House, that’s pretty cool,” she recalled. “I never thought I would be able to do that, and I feel fortunate we are a part of history.” Her husband’s election this summer as House Majority Leader was also a wondrous moment not lost on Judy. “We didn’t take it lightly. In one day, your responsibilities are greater, and it is humbling,” Judy said. “But someone had that office before Kevin, and someone will after. You keep your family first and don’t look at this as some glamor thing. You are serving, the people elected you to be a servant, you have to have a servant heart.” And does she ever fancy herself as First Lady someday, living among all those historic White House furnishings? “I haven’t even considered the possibility. If it is what God wants for us. We just both laugh,” Judy said.
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FIT AND FRESH
A LIFETIME OF FITNESS Tips for women to stay fit in every stage of life By Sally Baker and Katie Kirschenmann
W
e women experience defined chapters and milestones throughout our lives. At times, we put the needs of our loved ones ahead of our own. It’s important to remember ourselves by making health and fitness a priority. By creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle every day, we can conquer anything life throws our way.
20s Its time to trade in beer and pizza for clean eating and aerobic exercise. In our 20s, we are diving into careers and beginning adulthood. It’s time to embrace fitness as a part of our daily routine. Exercise creates strength physically and mentally to help us navigate the newfound stresses of jobs and young family life. • Pay attention to your reproductive health. • Eat foods rich in calcium, folate and folic acids. • Discover healthy ways to deal with stress.
In our 30s, we are (or at least should be) grown-ups. Many women start families in their 30s. Find an OB-GYN you trust and see regularly. Start taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid if you’re planning a baby. Unfortunately for some of us, infertility issues become pronounced in our 30s, so it’s vital we are aware of our bodies by tracking menstrual cycles, monitoring body mass index and maintaining the healthy lifestyle we adopted in our twenties. • Cut out sugars and starchy foods. • Get out and move at least four times a week. • Become your own reproductive health advocate by becoming better informed.
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30s
40s
PHOTO BY SALLY BAKER
It’s been said that the 40s are the new 20s. In our 40s, it becomes more difficult to lose weight, making lifestyle crucial to staying lean and fit. This stage of our life requires flexibility in more ways than one. Pilates and yoga are good avenues to maintain mind and body flexible with a busy life. Now is the time to become particularly aware of our, uh hum, “ta-tas.” We need to self-exam regularly and have our first mammogram in our 4th decade. • Know your “ta-tas” well. • Watch out for menopause. • Be flexible – move your body, move your mind.
50s My close friends in their 50s enthusiastically say this is the time of their life, and I believe it. Our bodies are now on an official vacation from child bearing. Still, hot flashes and weight gain are a common complaint amongst our 50s sisters. What you eat and do to stay fit is more important than ever. Pay attention to your joints and strength train. Do all you can to stay flexible and limber. • Stay flexible and strength train. • Take calcium and other supplements to avoid osteoporosis. • Talk to your doctor about bone density.
60s + You are officially a mentor to every young woman in your life. Share your knowledge with others. Less experienced women need help navigating the waters you’ve already crossed. Volunteer your time to those in need of guidance and compassion. Keep your mind active with reading and games. You’re a beacon of light to others so let your light shine. Move your body in a pool class or pilates. Run, walk and be free! • Exercise your brain as much as your mind. • Speak with your doctor regularly. • Give of yourself to those who need you.
FALL INTO FITNESS 12th Annual BPD K9 Unit Howlin’ at the Moon Fun Run, 8 p.m., Sept. 6
Evening race on the bike path under a full moon. Two kilometer fun run start at the bike path at The Park at River Walk at 8 p.m., timed 5K/10K start at 8:30 p.m. $25 by Sept. 3; $30 on race day. Register at kerneventregistration.com. Contact 326-3685 or email bpdruns@gmail.com. 6th Annual Hina Patel Foundation Sickle Cell 5K/10K, 8:30 a.m., Sept. 13
This event benefits the Hina Patel Foundation for Sickle Cell Disease, which helps fund research and education. Race starts at The Park at River Walk. $25 by Sept. 10, or $35 on race day. Register at www.shophinapatelfoundation.com.
Green Bean Salad Ingredients 2 pounds green beans Small red onion 4 ounces crumbled feta 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted in oven) Dressing: 3/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper Trim green beans and cut into thirds. Bring water to boil under steamer basket and arrange the beans in the basket. Cover and steam until tender but still crisp, about 5 minutes. While the beans steam, prepare an ice bath for beans. Place cold water and a handful of ice cubes in pan. Carefully transfer the beans from the steamer basket into the ice bath to stop them from cooking. Drain and pat dry when cool. Toss beans, onion, feta and pecans in a large bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, dill, garlic and salt and pepper. Drizzle dressing over green beans, toss and chill for one hour. This simple summer salad pairs perfectly with fish and quinoa for a light supper.
Run2Rescue 5K, 1 mile walk, kids run, 8 a.m., Sept. 27
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Continued from page 145 Race start at Valley Faith Fellowship, 15570 County Line Road, Delano. 5K for ages 12 and older $25 online; $30 race day. Kids fun run $10 online; $20 race day. One mile walk $15. Register at active.com. Contact chrisjuarezvff@gmail.com. Proceeds benefit the Philippines disaster relief efforts, women and children shelters, and the fight against human trafficking.
EXERCISE OF THE MONTH This wonderful pose stretches and opens the front of the body including the chest, abdomen, and quads. It also improves spinal flexibility. Lie on your stomach, reach hands back and take hold of the ankles. Inhale, and draw the torso and legs up off the floor simultaneously. With breath, try to relax spine and allow your spine to curve beautifully.
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PHOTOS BY SALLY BAKER
Bow Pose - Dhanurasana
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H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S
Instructor Jennifer Jones, left, works with Lynn Califf on a low-impact, low-intensity workout at Total Woman.
MOVE TO IMPROVE Local gym encourages women with autoimmune diseases to get moving By Leigh Pozas
Photos by Felix Adamo
M
ovement is good for everybody. For some people, it is more difficult, but the benefits of exercise, no matter what a person’s disability, disease or dysfunction, can’t be disputed. In 2006, Total Woman gym partnered with the local chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to launch an exercise program for women with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Damage to the nerve fibers causes many different symptoms including fatigue, vision problems, stiffness, weakness, numbness, imbalance, pain and memory loss. MS is two to three times more likely to occur in women than men. It is a painful and debilitating disease with no cure, and its affects vary widely among those with this disease. Research has repeatedly shown that exercise helps manage the symptoms of MS. It improves strength, flexibility, coordination and circulation. It also fights fatigue and creates 148
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Lynn Califf participates in a Move to Improve session with instructor Jennifer Jones. a feeling of well-being and independence. But the debilitating symptoms of this disease also make it difficult for those affected to stay motivated to exercise. It’s easy to become isolated and give in to fatigue. Total Woman staff were thrilled with the response to the program and the support it provided to the women. A sense of community among the participants motivated them to keep moving, even when they didn’t feel like it.
“Moving is my goal, to keep on moving, and this class really helps a lot,” said Patti Taylor, a local woman who has MS. Sherry Williams, who was diagnosed with MS in 1997, has been attending the class for five years. She said the class has changed her life in many ways. “The positive and upbeat atmosphere of the class and just to get moving each week has improved my everyday life mentally and physically,” Williams said. “I have made so many friendships with the wonderful ladies in our class.” — Sherry Williams, five-year In 2008, Total Move to Improve participant Woman received the Community Partner Award from the Southern California Chapter of the National MS Society for the program. The success of the program and of the ladies participat-
“
The positive and upbeat atmosphere of the class and just to get moving each week has improved my everyday life mentally and physically.
”
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"Move to Improve is a safe place. It is a positive place where women can come to exercise and connect with other women,” said instructor Jennifer Jones.
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Continued from page 149 ing in it propelled Total Woman to open up the Move to Improve program to women with all kinds of physical limitations. Jennifer Jones, the personal trainer who leads the class, said the women who attend the program inspire and encourage her every week. “Move to Improve is a safe place. It is a positive place where women can come to exercise and connect with other women,” Jones said. The class is a low-impact, low-intensity, semi-private training program for anyone with physical limitations, including auto-immune diseases, recovery from stroke, heart attack or accident, cancer recovery, extreme weight loss and more. The class is held from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Northwest Total Woman location, 9901 Hageman Road. Cost is $7.50 per session, and membership to the gym is not required. Everyone needs to move to improve. Exercise and community are two of the most effective ways to stay healthy, happy, fight depression and control weight. Leadership and support help to make Move to Improve participants successful and live with more freedom to move. — Leigh Pozas is the owner of Total Woman Fitness.
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TRIP PLANNER
Mikah and Sequoia Whitten check out their hometown exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville.
THE STREETS OF NASHVILLE Bakersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unofficial sister city well worth a visit Story and photos by Melissa Peaker-Whitten
B
akersfield is sometimes affectionately referred to as Nashville West, a nod to our cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deep roots in country music. So it seemed only right to visit our unofficial sister city when we got the chance. My husband Scott has friends in the South and since he was going to be nearby for a conference, my daughters, Sequoia, 14, Mikah, 9, and I decided to tag along and check out this iconic town. I did my research in advance so we could make the most our time in Music City. Many of the best sights to see are located in the historic downtown district of Nashville. You can grab a yummy lunch or dinner surrounded by music memorabilia at the Hard Rock Cafe. The location opened in 1994 and received a facelift 152
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Melissa Peaker-Whitten and her husband Scott Whitten flash peace signs next to a decked out bus at Two Old Hippies in Nashville. in 2009. If you time it right, you may even catch some live music. Hard Rock is just one of several live music venues in the area. Another nearby venue is Two Old Hippies, 2OH for short, is a clothing and music store. It was started by Tom and Molly Bedell and features Bedell guitars and mandolins, as
The Shelby Bridge alight at night.
Antique Archaeology is a shop owned by Mike Wolfe of American Pickers’ fame and housed in the old Marathon Automobile Factory. well as eclectic clothing for both men and women. They also stock unique books and accessories that embody their life philosophy of peace, love and community, with a mind toward a one world culture. The walls feature rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, and a Volkswagen bus is parked in the middle of the store like a 1960s time machine. A few blocks away, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum tells the story of the genre’s rich history. Their permanent exhibit, which includes recordings, moving images, photographs and costumes, chronicles country music from its
roots in the 19th century through today. The museum is currently featuring the Bakersfield Sound Exhibit through the end of December. You can spot several items on loan from Bakersfield’s own Crystal Palace in the exhibit. Housed in the same building as the Hall of Fame is Historic RCA Studio B, where well-known artists, such as Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and Dolly Parton have recorded albums. Or you can tour Hatch Show Print and create your own poster, using vintage block type. Started in 1879 by brothers Charles and Herbert Hatch, the print shop created some of the most iconic music posters of country music’s golden era. If you’re partial to the man in black, be sure not to miss the Johnny Cash Museum also located downtown. After exploring the rich history of Nashville, I recommend a stop at Mike’s Ice Cream and Coffee Bar on Broadway, where the ice cream is homemade and is served until 11 p.m. during the summer. Just up the street is Riverfront Park, where the Shelby Street Bridge arches over the Cumberland River. Built in the early 1900s, it was closed to automobile traffic in 1998 and
The Pharmacy is a great stop for gourmet burgers.
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Continued from page 153 restored for pedestrian use. It offers great views of the river and the downtown skyline. A little off the beaten path, but well worth the trip, is The Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden. Known for their extensive collection of German wurst and beer, the Pharmacy also serves burgers made from Tennessee-raised beef and features their own soda fountain, where they create old-fashioned drinks using 100 percent pure cane sugar. We tried the chocolate and strawberry sodas. Both were yummy. Another local gem worth hunting down is Antique Archeology. The shop is owned by Mike Wolfe of American Pickers’ fame. Housed in the old Marathon Automobile Factory, the shop sells items picked by Wolfe, as well as the shop’s signature products, including T-shirts, mugs, stickers and magnets. These are just a few highlights of an amazing city with a history rich in music and culture. Whether you have a couple of hours or a few days, there is plenty to see and do in Music City that will leave you with a song in your heart.
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Sequoia and Mikah Whitten strike a pose at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville.
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PRIME FINDS
Latin flair Latination poster by local artist Alberto Herrera. Kuka’s Folk Art. 1609 19th St., 325-0000, kukasfolkart.com
Style and comfort Women’s and children’s clothing and accessories. Kamnation Clothing. etsy.com/shop/KamnationClothing, facebook.com/KamnationClothing. 20 percent off with coupon code: KAM20
Words of wisdom Vintage inspired wood sign. $35. Farm Girls Vintage Finds. 7200 Shafter Road, Bakersfield, Calif. 93313. farmgirlsvintagefinds.com
Inspirational decor Vintage decorative wood sign. $35. Uniquely Chic Florist & Boutique. 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 701. 588-7997. uniquelychicflorist.com
Find your artistic side Paint this colorful chip-n-dip at an adult class or simply stop by and paint it your way. Color Me Mine at The Marketplace. 9000 Ming Ave. 664-7366. bakersfield.colormemine.com
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Distinguished Young Women of California Pasta Dinner Date: July 24 Held at Bakersfield High School Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.
Nupur, Pallavi and Neeraj Agarwal
Marie Diara and Nancy Enns
Kay and Brian Pitts
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Derek, Daniel and John Kang
Carly Duncan, AJ Clark and Laura Berger
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Volunteer Center of Kern County Monopoly Mania Barbara Goodlow and Karen Burrola
Jimmie and Debra Taliaferro, Patty and Skip Langston
Joy Voelkers and Eileen Plyler
Date: Aug. 15 Held at Fandango City Palace Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.
Nick Howell, Havannah Ulrich and Jason Thomasy
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Gospel Brunch Date: Aug. 3 Held at Bell Tower Photos by Jan St Pierre View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.
Russ Haley and Patti and Ron Bulkeley
Leonard Sanoian and Robert Carbone
Tony and Elva Martinez
Larry and Sandra Reider Jeanette Williams and Nancy Clark
Tonya Austin and Lisa Johnson
David Gordon and Kristina Steinke
Barbara Patrick and John and Mary Ann Rodgers 160
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Althea Henderson and Dottie Johns
Chalita and Dana Robinson
Karen Goh and Wayne and Lynn Deats
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Kern Adult Literacy Council Inaugural Sports Night Date: Aug. 8 Held at Luigi’s Restaurant Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.
Rick Sawyer and Guy Rounsaville
Gabriela Gamboa and Alejandra Garcia
Jennifer and Daryl Curtis
Carolyn and Joel Sherman and Patty Poire
Teanna Broome and Crystal Kim
Shane Bryan and Alyssa Hanners
Oscar Villanueva, Lisa Hockersmith and Joe Turner
Wesley Worman and George Culver
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Luis and Grace Hernandez and Irene and Ed Villanueva
The Friends of Mercy Foundation and Mercy Hospitals would like to extend our sincere thanks to the 148 members of the 2013/2014 Catherine McAuley Society. For more information about the Catherine McAuley Society, please visit us at SupportFriendsOfMercy.org or (661) 663-6700.
Cherie Aaron Doreen Abrams* Maureen Andrew* Antonette Anich* Marcelle Ansolabehere* Rosemary Anspach* Graci Bailey Sandy Banducci* Patty Bass Kay Beavers Maureen Beccari* Frankie Berchtold Tricia Bland Traci Boylan
Brenda Brown Alissa Buckey* Vicki Burger Bebe Burke JoAnn Burris Sharon Bush* Laurie Bustamante Sister Cris Caballero+ Beverly Camp Izetta Camp Kaye Camp Pat Campbell* Debbie Cappello* Naida Carlton Patti Carroll* Sylvia Cattani* Susan Cerri-Buck Jennice Cerrina
Julie Cesare Rose Marie Cinquemani Becky Clark Janet Craft Kathy Crettol Davida Delis Joan Dezember* Fern DiNicola* Sister Sherry Dolan+ Joyce Downs Jennifer Drake Adel Durando* Patricia Eagleson*†^ Dana Edwards, MD Cherilee Ezell Katherine Fahy Gina Fanucchi Judith Fanucchi Chrissy Farr Kim Fiorini Melissa Fortune Sandra Foster Marilyn Fowler Judy Franconi*
Your cumulative gift of $142,000 funded a state-of-the-art 4D Echocardiogram, which will be used to diagnose cardiac, peripheral vascular, abdominal and OB/GYN conditions.
Jan Froehlich Sheila Fry Penelope Fulton Mary Gamboni Kathy Gargan Catherine Gay Cynthia Giumarra Marcia Giumarra Keri Gless Jan Glinn Sister Josie Gonzales*+ Yolanda Griffiths* Lavonne Hall Susan Hamilton Brook Hardt Catherine Haupt Jane Haupt Mikie Hay* Patricia Houchin Debbie Hull* Christine Icardo Cynthia Icardo* Margaret Johnson Cindy Jones Shawna Judd* Germaine Kimm Lisa King Karen Krausse-Roesle Diane Lake* Valerie Lallo Dee Ann Lantz* Marianne Laxague Mary Mazzei* Ronda Mazzei
Cindy McCann Louise McCarthy Theresa McNally Cindy Meek Kay Meek Sister Judy Morasci*+ Beth Nahama Lily Nahama Marjorie Nixon Nancy Nusbaum Maria Paine Beth Pandol Mona Pankey* Laura Pascoe Barbara Patrick Lori Petrelli Margaret Philippe Patty Plank*† Becky Porter Joan Pracy Lila Ray Sandra Reider Mary Richardson Monique Roberts Donna Rogers Linda Rojas Chris Romanini Erika Romanini Alexis Roy Barbara Sabovich Sister Mary Hope Sanchez+ Barbara Sandrini* Florence Schroeder*
Joellyn Schroeder Sandra Serrano Sandi Shepherd Jeanette Smart* Juliet Smith Karen Stanley Sherry Stone Laura Tague Marietta M. Tan, MD Mora Tang Mary Lou Thomson Jane Toller*+ Jane Uhalt* Marilynn Unruh Joan Wallace Stephanie Weber* Evelyn Weddle* Katie Werdel Lynn Westhoff Patty Young Dominique Zaninovich Katy Zaninovich Tammie Zaninovich* Theo Zaninovich Florence Ziemann* + Honorary Members * Charter Members ^ Memorial Member † Deceased
For pictures from Catherine McAuley luncheons, please visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMercyFoundation bakersfieldlife.com
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Valley Fever Walk Date: Aug. 9 Held at Kern County Museum Photos by Carla Rivas View these photos and more at bakersfieldlife.com.
Kathrin and Steven Redgrave with Renly and Suzie
Juliet and Teresa Gammon, Jeff Birks, Tristen Gammon
Jamie Rhoades and Lynda and Brittany Fette
Ben and Pat Goossen
Jessica Alvarez and Jasmine Thomas
Scarlett Sabin and Sandi Schwartz
Kristin, Maddie, Josh and Diego Meranda
George and Sandra Larson, Bob Parker
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Katrina Navejas, Kathleen and Kooper Thomas
LAST WORD
By Louis Medina
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• Of the more than 75,000 social service referrals made by 2-1-1 Kern County Information and Referral Helpline in 2013, 45 percent were for food assistance; • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported this year that more than 60 percent of Kern’s population is obese, and Kern is the worst ranking California county for heart disease and the second worst for diabetes; • The latest (2012) Food Research and Action Center’s Report on “Food Hardship in America” ranks Bakersfield as the nation’s hungriest city, with close to 27 percent of residents indicating they suffer food hardship; and • A February 2014 study from the U.S. Department of Agriculture reveals that 31 percent of food available nationwide in 2010 went uneaten. If Bakersfield is like the rest of the nation, then, it is possible that a lot of food is also being wasted in America’s hungriest city.
A LOOK AT LOCAL HUNGER THROUGH ARTISTS’ EYES
But what do these issues look like to professional artists who often conceptualize and interpret ideas in an instinctively visual way? You can find out at the Faces of Hunger art exhibit and sale on Sept. 12. The exhibit is part of the Community Action Partnership of Kern Food Bank fundraiser, Hunger is No Game. Local artists Felix Adamo, Linda Brown, Eileen Ettinger, Linda Hyatt, Christine McKee and Art Sherwyn, under the guidance of Beautiful Bakersfield Award winning artist Nicole SaintJohn, will display and sell paintings, photographs, sculptures and mixed media pieces related to the lack and overabundance of food that ironically coexist in our little corner of America’s breadbasket, the San Joaquin Valley. For months, these artists have been helping out at emergency food distribution sites; observing folks at food lines; reading federal reports on poverty and hunger; studying nutrition labels on packaged foods; and even looking inside dumpsters to get an understanding of the impacts the supply, lack, consumption — including overconsumption — and waste of food have on people in our community. What they have discovered is reflected in the provocative art they have created for Faces of Hunger. “For this project, I am interested in creating works that illustrate the scale of poverty in Kern County,” said Hyatt, a graduate of Otis College of Art and Design and an art teacher with the Kern High School District. “I was appalled at the number of people living below the poverty line here — people of all ages; people who sometimes work two jobs; people of all colors and from many neighborhoods. I am attempting in my work to allow the viewers to see and experience the depth and volume of the problem and hope166
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"Loaves and Fishes I,” by Linda Brown incorporates photographs of recent local food distributions overlaid with drawn pictures of loaves of bread, colorful fish and pattern.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA BROWN
hat do hunger, nutritional challenges and food waste look like in Bakersfield and Kern? As someone who writes grants and does research for a living, I know what they look like statistically:
fully be inspired to become agents for change.” For Brown, a graduate of San Jose State University and also a KHSD teacher, hunger provides an opportunity to perform miracles. “My ‘Loaves and Fishes’ series was inspired by a story from the Bible about the feeding of thousands with just five loaves and two fish,” she wrote in an e-mail. “Although it is thought to be one of Christ’s miracles, it can also be thought of in this way: During that time, it was customary for people to carry their food hidden away inside their cloaks. Compelled by Christ’s words, the thousands brought forth the food they had, shared it and had more than enough for all. I feel very fortunate to be able to help the CAPK Food Bank in feeding those who are hungry. We can create our own ‘little miracles’ by giving what we can, when we can.” Will you come see Faces of Hunger and help the CAPK Food Bank? You can see the artists’ work at Hunger is No Game’s casino night fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 12, at Friendship House Community Center, 2424 Cottonwood Road, in Bakersfield. Admission is $35, including dinner; $75 for dinner and gaming. Half the proceeds from the sale of Faces of Hunger art pieces will benefit the CAPK Food Bank. Visit capk.org for details. — Louis Medina is an administrative analyst with Community Action Partnership of Kern.
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