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OLIVIA GARCIA
EDITOR’S NOTE
Arte, book reading y mas I can just hear Earth, Wind & Fire’s song, “September,” ringing in my ear as I write this column. September always feels like an exciting time for many of us. The children are back into school, training for youth fall sports takes shape, the exciting Kern County Fair arrives, National Hispanic Heritage Month takes spotlight, the great fall weather approaches and of course, Latination kicks it all off. I hope many of you get a chance to check out the beautiful artwork on display at Metro Galleries in downtown Baersfield this month. “Latination II” is the second annual Latin-inspired juried art exhibit created in partnership with Metro Galleries and MÁS Magazine. Many sponsors make the event possible, and great folks like Luis Aguilar, owner of the much-loved El Pueblo Restaurant in Lamont, and Matt Muñoz
and his band of Mento Buru, also play very important roles. Read all about it — and discover the winners — inside this issue. We have plenty of other features and photographs to entertain, educate and wow you. Dolores Huerta recently celebrated her 80th birthday, and we get a moment to chat with her. One Book, One Bakersfield prepares for its community reading project this month — this one focusing on Victor Villaseñor’s memoir, “Burro Genius.” We got some great photos on our gente pages, including a 50th anniversary dedication to Julian and Rosa Jimenez. Now that’s true love. And if you are a pizza lover, then you must read the feature about Richard Morales, the owner of Cataldo’s Pizza on Niles Street. My family has tested the pizza there, and five estrellas!
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MÁS | 03
SEPTEMBER 2010
CONTENTS 14 Pizza time Richard Morales ‘living his dream’ through his business, Cataldo’s Pizza on Niles Street.
16 Latination II
STAFF EDITORIAL Olivia Garcia Editor ogarcia@bakersfield.com 395-7487 Matt Muñoz Staff Writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com
Winners named for Latin art exhibit on display at Metro Galleries. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
5 Nice homecoming
GABRIEL RAMIREZ, LUZ PEÑA, GENE GARAYGORDOBIL NOE GARCIA, JAY TAMSI, DIANNE HARDISTY LOUIS MEDINA, JENNIFER BALDWIN
East High Principal Lee Vasquez leads students to their academic future.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS CASEY CHRISTIE, JOSE TREVIÑO, HENRY BARRIOS, TANYA X. LEONZO, FELIZ ADAMO, MARIA AHUMADAGARAYGORDOBIL, JOHN ORNELAS
6 ‘Burro Genius’ One Book, One Bakersfield begins community read, focusing on Victor Villaseñor’s memoir.
12 Latina icon turn 80 Dolores Huerta celebrates her birthday, victories
ART DIRECTION
26 In the Mixx with Noe Village Fest, ArtFest, the Fair and Ralphie May are some of the can’t-miss happenings.
Glenn Hammett Design Editor ghammett@bakersfield.com
ADVERTISING ARTIST Roberto Nunez
ADVERTISING Jaime de los Santos Sales Manager jdelossantos@bakersfield.com 716-8632
For the record: An article about Grupo Aztlan in the August issue incorrectly named one of Steve Ornelas’ guitars. Ornelas only has one guitar with a name, and it's named Mary.
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ON THE COVER: Alberto Herrera’s “Los Ninos de la Revolucion” was honored with the “Best of Show” for Latination II on display this month. Photo by Henry A. Barrios
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04 | MÁS Sept. 5, 2010
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EDUCATION
A principal’s guidance
CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN
Lee Vasquez, East Bakersfield High School Principal, talks with sophomore Ivanna Ibarra while she does research in the school library for her World History class.
East High Principal Lee Vasquez has come home again, but still has the fire to get the job done
By DIANNE HARDISTY Special to MÁS
W
hen Librado “Lee” Vasquez talks about East Bakersfield High School, he talks about “coming home.” Vasquez, who completed his first year as the school’s principal in June, began his full-time teaching career at East 24 years ago. He began his rise through the Kern High School District’s administrative ranks at the school. And now he has returned to help steer East into a changing, new future. East “is largely a school of diversity now,” said Vasquez, during a recent interview. “You have kids attending from the Country Club
area and others who live next to KMC. But they are all EB Blades. There is an openness to embrace each other for their uniqueness.” Opened in the 1930s, East is the second oldest high school in Bakersfield. Lee Vasquez, his sister, SuzAnne, and brother, Alex, grew up in an east Bakersfield neighborhood near Quantico and Potomac avenues. His father, Alex, was a house painter. His mother, Virginia, was mostly a stay-athome-mom, who occasionally worked in a nursing home. “There were all colors of kids in my neighborhood. Socioeconomically, we didn’t have a lot of money,” Vasquez recalled. The family was active in their community. Vasquez’s mother and father served on the FairContinued on page 15 Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 05
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06 | MÁS Sept. 5, 2010
One Book, One Bakersfield to highlight Victor Villaseñor’s
‘Burro Genius’ By Jennifer Baldwin Special to MÁS
I
n celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the community is invited to join the next community read organized by One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern. The book, “Burro Genius,” by Victor Villaseñor (“Rain of Gold,” “Macho!”) is a memoir of the author’s experience as the child of Mexican immigrants growing up in Southern California during the 1940s and ‘50s. It is as much a commentary on the education system that discriminated against Spanish speakers – and failed to recognize the author’s severe dyslexia that made him seem like a “stupid Mexican” – as it is a story of family, culture, heritage and coming of age. Lead partners Kern Coun-
ty Library and CSU Bakersfield have organized two months of programming related to the community read, starting with a kickoff on Sept. 16 at the Beale Memorial Library and culminating with the author himself giving a free talk at CSUB on Nov. 9. One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern encourages everyone to read the book, hold book discussions, and participate in the many events related to National Hispanic Heritage Month this fall. According to www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov, this year’s theme “recognizes the strength and hard work of Hispanic Americans, whose zeal for family and country has helped shape society” – a very fitting theme for a community read of “Burro Genius.”
Local events include: Sept. 10-25 Bakersfield Community Theatre presents “Bordertown,” 2400 South Chester Ave., admission charged, call 831-8114 Sept. 16, 11 a.m. One Book, One Bakersfield, One Kern kickoff of “Burro Genius” community read and National Hispanic Heritage Month with speakers and entertainment, Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave., free. Sept. 18, 2 p.m. Pam Muñoz Ryan Day, with proclamations by Mayor Harvey Hall and Assemblywoman Jean Fuller celebrating Bakersfield native and acclaimed children’s
author Pam Muñoz (“Esperanza Rising”), entertainment, reception and book signing, Russo’s Books at The Marketplace, free. Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. FLICS International Film Society presents “Sin Nombre,” a film made in Mexico touching on themes of immigration and gangs, Fox Theater, $5, flics.org Oct. 1-2, CSUB’s Modern Languages Department hosts the first “Hispanic American and Spanish Literary and Cultural Symposium,” 9001 Stockdale Highway, free with $2 parking, call 661-654-2359.
Š2010. Monterey Bay Aquarium Foundation. Derechos reservados.
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CULTURA
Playing the right strings By Gabriel Ramirez Special to MÁS
M
ariachi music has been described as a genre that originated in Guadalajara, Mexico and is performed at special events. But to the students of the Kern County Youth Mariachi Foundation (KCYMF), mariachi music is a fun way of connection with their culture. “Being in the group has been fun. We are like a family,” said Jessie Maldonado. The 19-year-old has been playing the guitar with Mariachi Juvenil de Aztlán, the performing group of KCYMF, for nine years. She said the group helps keep the young ones out of trouble and for her it has helped her stay in touch with her culture. KCYMF is a nonprofit group, established in 1998, that is committed to providing activities that encourage artistic creativity, mutual respect, a focus on academic excellence and the preservation and promotion of the rich tradition of Mariachi culture and its music. “KCYMF strives to promote healthy behaviors and lifestyles through all our activities. Our students, practice at least once a week and students develop a meaningful connection with the community by performing at many community events including health fairs, trade shows, school carnivals and dinner fundraisers,” said Lupe Quiñonez, parent representative.
08 | MÁS Sept. 5, 2010
PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO
The students of the Kern County Youth Mariachi Foundation, standing, left to right: Jessie Maldonado, Ariana Quiñonez, Elisa Quiñonez, and Nicolas Hernandez. Sitting, left to right: Mathew Cadena, Zach Guerra, Joseph Bermudez, and Quintin Freeman.
Mariachi Juvenil de Aztlán is directed by Jorge Luis Laris and currently has 11 students in the performing group. Members of the group range from ages 11 to 21. The group recently held a fundraiser, a summer concert to raise money for providing services for the students involved. According to Quiñonez, the money raised in the past has helped provide scholarships, instruments, workshops, and uniforms. “The secondary purpose of the concert is to showcase our students to the community, family and friends,”
Quiñonez said. “As members of KCYMF, our students are gaining an educational advantage. By helping students succeed academically, we are helping them gain self-respect and self-esteem while providing them with tools to deny the negative influences around them.” Students agree. “The group has given me the skills and attitude to be successful,” said Quinton Freeman. Freeman, 15, has been playing the guitarrón with the group for 10 years and recently got to participate in a summer mariachi program
at UCLA. “The group has taught me responsibility and has kept me focused on practicing,” Freeman said. Guitar player Matthew Cadena, 14, has been playing with the group for seven years and said being part of the group is fun and a great way to meet new people. “I believe this group is very important,” Quiñonez said. “We’re the only non-profit organization that offers these services to our youth, and the only youth organization that can turn around and offer their youth and talent to serve our community.
COMMUNITY HOW YOU CAN HELP
PHOTO BY JOHN ORNELAS
Randy Martin and wife, Kim, with four former foster children: Precious Murphy, Jeremy Hendricks, Lajoy Gentry, and David Balderas.
Critical link Covenant helps foster care youth transition into adulthood By Gabriel Ramirez Special to MÁS
W
hen David Balderas turned 18, he had no idea what would become of him or where he would be living. Balderas was a foster child who had aged-out of the Foster Care program. He’d been left without a home, that is until a friend at his church told him about Covenant Community Services — designed to help aged-out foster youth adjust to living on their own. “I got lucky,” Balderas said. “I really didn’t know where I was going to go.” Now 21, Balderas is a Bakersfield College culinary arts student enrolled in a transitional-housing program. He is
planning to move out on his own soon. “I found a place,” he said. “Thanks to this program, I was able to get on my feet and a good record, which allowed me to qualify for my new place. The program is gold.” CEO and founder of Covenant Community Services, Randy Martin, said the program is critical to the success of the community. “The services Covenant provides are all designed and developed to help children become safe, secure and contributing adults,” Martin said. “The programs and services of Covenant are important because we enlist the community to respond to the dire needs of former foster youth.” Covenant Community Services was founded in 1999 by
Martin and a group of Christian leaders in response to the needs of Kern County’s foster children. “Most foster children come out of the ‘system’ negatively affected,” Martin said. “Studies have shown that nearly 25 percent of former foster youth have post-traumatic stress disorder.” That’s twice the rate of former Vietnam War veterans, he said. “Our system and safety net is leaving children with few options except mentalhealth issues, poverty, prison and homelessness.” A large number of the county’s foster care children are minorities. In 2009, about half of them were Hispanic, Martin said. “The statistics tell us that the future is nothing but bad for former foster youth. What else can we expect unless we get involved and make a difference by serving today,” he said. Covenant operates services from mentoring and job placement to foster care and adoption. In the area of former foster youth, Covenant
• Donate clothing, toys, furniture and/or appliances • Become a foster parent • Become a mentor to a foster youth • Speak once a month to our emancipated youth about your business/company and professional skills • Help send a child to camp • Become a monthly donor • Become an annual donor • Host a dinner to recruit foster parents • Purchase Covenant Coffee www.covenantcoffee.org
serves more than 70 youth each month through the transitional housing plus program (THP Plus), Building Blocks housing, independent living program and CARENET services. Now, 20, Mercedes Licea, said if it wasn’t for Covenant she would be doing nothing with her life. “The program has been very important to me and has helped me a lot,” Licea said. “The program has helped keep me on track of accomplishing my goals.” That included getting her driver’s license, high school diploma and a training position with Covenant. Martin said people can help foster care youth in many ways. “The youth of Kern County need people to stand up and help,” he said. “They need people to mentor, to give, to serve and to pray. “The only way we change the future for foster youth is to get involved,” Martin said. “We need to care and let them know we care by helping them succeed.” Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 09
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10 | MÁS Sept. 5, 2010
By Luz Peña Special to MÁS
T
he Spotlight Theatre production of “Havest Moon” planted the seed of the Latino culture and heritage in its audience’s hearts and minds during its August run. The cast not only had to depict characters created by Mexican-American playwright Jose Cruz Gonzales, they had to change their portrayals as the characters aged before the audiences’ eyes. The play tells a story of a teenage boy’s journey of learning his deceased Mexican-American mother’s family history through a talking mural. “I play Mariluz, a muralist. I paint and leave history for my son,” said Kayla Frayre. “Mariluz is an important character. I tie everyone together, so there was a lot of pressure on me to play her.” The play starts out with a 17-year-old Cuauhtemoc, played by Nick Ono, in the middle of the harvest field. There he finds his mother’s paint brush. As he remembers his mother, he hears voices from the mural behind him. Frayre, along with rest of the cast played their characters at different ages and phases in their lives. Frayre, who’s only 17, had the tough task of playing Mar-
iluz as a child to a mother in her 30s. Despite Cuauhtemoc’s white father’s best efforts to teach him about his mother’s roots, he has rebelled against it. Once he’s in the fields, Cuauhtemoc is confronted by the past – the vivid lives of his grandparents and great grandparents and even his own mother’s cultural-identity struggle. During the less than 90-minute play, Cuauhtemoc learns and finally embraces his mother’s family’s rich Mexican cultura. “The play is about the author’s personal experience of finding out who he was. During the play, Cuauhtemoc will learn about his family history and where he comes from,” said Maria-Tania Becerra, director of the play. “The story is what many of us, Latinos living in the U.S. deal with. ‘Who we are’ and what makes us, us.” Gonzales grew up in Watsonville, the son of migrant farmworkers. He’s currently a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. Artistic Director Hal Friedman said he chose the play because of its United Farm Worker ties and its message. “We did ‘Zoot Suit’ a few years back, so I’ve been looking for another Hispanic play... It has a Mexican-American appeal (for this area),” he said. “It talks a lot about family and everyone can relate to that.” Some of the 10 cast members played multiple characters staying true to the way Gonzales wrote the play. The mural used in the play was painted by actors Heath Muller and Michael Mejia.
COMMUNITY
PHOTO BY MARIA AHUMADA-GARAYGORDOBIL
Bishop John T. Steinbock, head of the Fresno Diocese, talks about Father Francis Xavier Alabart’s legacy during the funeral Mass.
The man behind the
BEAUTIFUL CHURCH By Gene Garaygordobil Special to MÁS
DELANO — Although Delano’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church is indeed God’s house, it will always be known as the “Church that Father Alabart built.” Father Francis Xavier Alabart not only pushed his superiors during the 1950s to build Delano’s “westside” Catholic Church, he rolled up his sleeves to raise money, sometimes taking money from his own meager priest salary to get the job done. And what a job for one man,
leading a very money-poor congregation, although it was very spiritually rich, when parishioners took their own tools to help finish the church themselves. So it was fitting on July 23, that the priest’s family, friends and fellow parishioners crowded into the small westside church to send Alabart, 94, to his next journey — as relatives noted — “to perform his heavenly duties.” Alabart passed away on July 17, a surprise to those who knew him well, because despite his age, he continued to live on his own, and even do readings during various Masses. During his morning
funeral Mass, mourners paused by his dark brown wooden casket, adorned with a beige cloth and a black hat, called a biretta and the book of the Gospels, said Pat Lane, owner and funeral director of Lane Family Funeral Home. The hat was later passed on to relatives. Inside the casket, Alabart wore a peach-colored priest smock with gold crucifixes. The priest also wore his familiar wire-rimmed glasses, and his hands clutched a simple wooden Rosary and a brown scapular. Bishop John T. Steinbock, the leader of the Diocese of Fresno, presided over Alabart’s funeral Mass, and more than 40 priests also participated in the service. “He was a great person we’ve all lost, a great priest,” Steinbock told the more than 800 mourners who attended the Mass. In 1951, Alabart joined the then-Diocese of Fresno and Monterey and was assigned to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Delano. It was in Delano where he noticed the need to better serve the poorer neighborhoods of the community,
A Delano woman pauses to touch Father Francis Alabart’s portrait before his funeral service.
made up mostly of Latino and Filipino residents. He received permission to build the westside church, which he did “with a whole lot of sacrifice,” Steinbock added. The church was completed in 1957, and Alabart became the first pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. He was there until 1968, when he was reassigned to other valley parishes. Alabart would retire in Delano in 1994, but he continued to perform priestly duties until his death. “Imagine, the great gift he has given us, 70 years of faithful service of the priesthood,” the Bishop said. “Thank you Francis.” Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 11
MILESTONES
Dolores Huerta at 80 Still fighting for the rights of those without a voice By Gabriel Ramirez Special to MÁS
H
er lifelong career as an activist for civil rights has made Dolores Huerta nationally known and brought many awards, honorary doctorates and other recognitions. So it is no wonder that many big names in the Latino community and in Hollywood gathered Aug. 13 at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles to celebrate Huerta’s 80th birthday. Musician Carlos Santana, among others, played in her honor. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa made sure he was there. Yet, those accomplishments and her current status as a hero and iconic figure came with much sweat, hard work and struggle. “My greatest accomplishment was helping farmworkers gain the right to organize, with the result of people standing up for their own rights,” she said. And her most recent accomplishment is The Dolores Huerta Foundation. “Our mission is to inspire and motivate people to organize sustainable communities to attain social justice with an emphasis on women and youth,” Huerta said. For her work in the fight for farmworker rights, Huerta has been honored with a plethora of awards. Huerta has also received six honorary doctorates and has schools named after her in seven cities. Through the foundation, Huerta has
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helped fight for the maintaining of two public swimming pools in Arvin and Lamont, the creation of a new gymnasium at Sunset/Vineland Middle School in Weedpatch, passage of a one-cent tax increase in Arvin to fund public safety and recreation programs and the connection of 27 homes in Weedpatch to a sewer-drainage system. The foundation has also fought for social justice by helping defeat antichoice initiatives — Propositions 73, 85 and 4, campaigning for equality of marriage, defeating anti-immigration resolutions in the city of Bakersfield and offering monthly educational meetings on topics such as civil rights, domestic violence, childhood obesity, energy conservation, diabetes, health care and citizenship campaigns. “I am now 80 years old and celebrating my birthday with fundraisers for The Dolores Huerta Foundation throughout the year. The biggest fundraiser was a concert themed ‘Weaving Movements’,” Huerta said. Huerta’s birthday celebration doubled as fundraiser for The Dolores Huerta Foundation and included attendants and performers such as Ed Begley Jr., Martin Sheen, Pete Escovedo, Carlos Santana, Zack de la Rocha, Benjamin Bratt, Lila Downs and Culture Clash. “My life is about grassroots organizing for people to feel the sense of their own power, and over the past 50 years I have linked to many activists and current movement,” Huerta said. Looking toward the future
Huerta feels there is still work to be done to expand and protect farmworker rights. “Farmworkers should not be forced to work when their lives are in jeopardy. Many have been injured over the years, and there has been a loss of lives due to the extreme heat and poor working conditions,” Huerta said. “We need to improve OSHA regulations and enforce the current laws to protect workers.” Huerta also has strong feelings toward the current immigration climate in Arizona and the repealing of Proposition 8. “The Arizona law is unjust and allows racial profiling. We need to educate and not tolerate this type of legislation,” Huerta said. “As for the repealing of Proposition 8, let’s celebrate it being overturned. Marriage equality is a civil rights issue, and the government should not be allowed to tells us who to marry.” Huerta hopes to continue to build a social justice network, work on a national volunteer and activists network and develop and inspire indigenous/community resident leadership internationally. Huerta also wanted to give advice to current Latino youth activists. “Make sure your are registered to vote when you turn 18, keep the “Sí Se Puede” attitude, don’t give up and remember that your education is an investment for family and community,” Huerta said. “Don’t waste money on materialistic items, but instead save your money for your future.”
Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 13
BUSINESS
PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE
Cataldo’s Pizza on Niles Street is fulfilling a dream for Richard Morales.
Businessman embarks on dream of owning a pizzeria By Louis Medina Special to MÁS
R
ichard Morales is a big guy living a big dream — an extra large pizza-sized dream. Last fall, Morales, 47, left a career in concrete construction to open up what has come to be known as “the east-side Cataldo’s” on Niles Street near Shalimar Drive. “This was something I’d always wanted to do,” he said. With the help of most of the members of his familia, the East Los Angeles native launched into the new venture last December. “We’re family,” he said. “We have our backs. We support each other in everything we do. That makes us very lucky.” Wife Elizabeth Morales keeps the books and makes sure the restaurant stays tidy. Son Ritchie Morales, 17, a student at Garces Memorial High, and daughter Celina Morales, 19, a Bakers-
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field College student and the head coach of the girls’ freshman softball team at Miramonte High School, both work part time, while the eldest son, Evan Morales, 24, manages the restaurant. The littlest, 9-year-old Victoria Morales, who attends St. Francis School, comes up with pizza creations she likes. “Victoria’s Favorite” has pepperoni, olives and bacon. It may be a Morales creation, but the great taste and chewy texture are unquestionably Cataldo’s. Eldest daughter Crystal, 25, a teacher, is the only one not directly involved in the business. “But she loves to eat lunch here,” dad said. Morales is an expert backyard cook who loves to treat those around him to delicious tri-tip or deep-pit barbecue, brother-in-law Bob Ortiz said. He extends this type of congeniality to his clients —and his employees. On a recent night, Morales, and some of his staff, took turns serving food and
singing karaoke with about 50 customers who kept the place rocking. That type of “owner involvement” is likely to ensure Morales’ success as a franchise, said Michael Regpala, founder of the Cataldo’s Pizzeria chain. Regpala said he recognized the entrepreneurial spirit in Morales, who for years was a regular customer at other local Cataldo’s locations. Regpala invited Morales to open a Cataldo’s in Wasco but Morales wasn’t ready. No hard feelings, said Regpala, who opened up the Wasco store himself. Then he spotted an opportunity on Niles and approached Morales again.Morales loved that location. “In the current economy, it’s a good time to take a chance at a small business,” Regpala said. “We got his store opened up really fast, on budget, and started hitting good numbers right away.” Added his wife, “I remind him every morning, ‘You’re living your dream’.”
Continued from page 05
fax School Board. By the time Vasquez entered high school, East was not the only one on that side of town. Vasquez graduated from Foothill High School and attended Bakersfield College, before following in his brother’s footsteps and transferring to San Francisco State University. At San Francisco, he majored in political science, with the idea of pursuing a law degree. His brother, who already had graduated and returned to Bakersfield to teach high school, convinced him teaching was a better career choice. But that was in 1978, when voters passed tax-cutting Proposition 13 and teaching jobs were hard to find. Vasquez moved back to east Bakersfield and hired on as a clerk with the Santa Fe Railroad, where he worked for the next 10 years. Two years into his railroad career, Lee and Teri Vasquez married. Teri got a job with Kern County – working first in the Personnel Department, and then transferring to the Probation Department, from which she recently retired as a probation officer. But Vasquez still had the teaching bug. In 1985, while still working for the railroad, he took a part-time job teaching independent studies in the afternoon at South High School. The next year, he joined East’s faculty as a full-time government and independent studies teacher. He and his brother, who also taught at East, coached the school’s football teams – Alex, the varsity team, and Lee, the sophomore-freshman team. Vasquez’s interest soon shifted to counseling and administration. He earned degrees in both fields from the University of La Verne, qualifying him to become East’s dean of students in 1990. Three years later, he was assigned to help open the new Centennial High School as its dean of students. He later became Centennial’s assistant principal. In 2000, he was named the district’s director of pupil personnel services and in 2005, he was named principal of South High, a job he held until his recent East appointment. Surrounded by modest neighborhoods, where police battle pockets of gang infestation, Vasquez concedes East struggles with an image problem that makes students bristle and prompts Vasquez to rattle off many school accomplishments. Whether it’s East’s sports achievements, the performance of its specialty Health Careers or Multi-Media academies, or the many students who have qualified for admission to some of the nation’s top universities, Vasquez shines with pride. “This campus gives kids hope,” said Vasquez, whose residence has remained in East’s attendance area. “When kids come into education, they are fired up, they want to learn. But along the way, they are labeled and they begin to define themselves by those labels,” said Vasquez. “When they come to us, we tell them they can redefine themselves in high school. We tell them to look at themselves in a different light. “It sometimes takes a lot of strength for them to do that. They have to walk the street home at night. We don’t see what they return to. The miracle is that these kids show up every day. Junior may have to walk the gauntlet to get here. So we must make sure we are giving him the very best that we can.” With 80 percent of its student population Latino, Vasquez said students come from a variety of socialeconominc and cultural backgrounds, from first generations to third. But his goal is the same for all of them: Graduating and finding their dream. “I have five to seven years before I retire,” said the 55-year-old Vasquez. “But I still come to school every day fired up. So do most teachers. If they feel they have a possibility of making a change, a difference, it ignites their spirit.”
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Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 15
COVER STORY
LATINATION II By Dianne Hardisty Special to MAS
D
on Martin tells the story of a burly man in work clothes who showed up for an exhibit at the Metro Galleries in downtown Bakersfield. The man stood in front of a painting for the longest time, seeming to be absorbed in his study. Finally, he turned to gallery owner Martin and said, “I don’t know nothing about art, but that’s a pretty picture.” In some ways, that story embraces the second annual “Latination” show that will open Friday, Sept. 3, at the Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. The juried art show will remain on display through the month of September. The show is a celebration of Latino art, culture, heritage and history. And the definition of “Latino” is found in the eyes of the artist and art patron. To Martin, “Latination” is defined by the brilliant colors. “I look to the color in all aspects – food, dress, ceremony. I am drawn to the colors,” said Martin. Others might define “Latination” by themes, history and political struggle. It is like the burly gallery visitor in Martin’s story who recognized a “pretty picture” when he saw it. “Latination” is a personal response. VisiDon Martin tors to the Metro Galleries – and those include the diverse group of community people invited to judge the entries – recognize and reward “Latination” when they see it. Martin, who grew up in Kern County, graduating from Arvin High School and earning a fine arts degree from Cal State Bakersfield, said he was long interested in having a “Latino inspired” show at his gallery. Brainstorming with Olivia Garcia, editor of The Bakersfield Californian’s MAS Magazine, led to the creation of the first “Latination” show last year. “Day of the Dead is one of my favorite holidays. I wanted to meld ‘Latin’ and ‘nation’ together in a
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show that would celebrate a culture, not push an agenda. “I asked [artists] to give me their interpretation of what the Latino culture is. I wasn’t sure what we were going to get,” Martin recalled during a recent interview. “We got amazing work.” More than 100 pieces of art – mostly paintings, with some photography, sculpture and pottery included – were entered into last year’s show. “There were many young artists, 19- and 20year-olds, who were just starting their careers,” Martin said. Alberto Herrera, an art teacher at Fruitvale Junior High School in northwest Bakersfield, won “best of show” with his painting that paid tribute to his recently deceased mother, Maria. “Last year’s show was great. I saw work that was just fabulous,” he said. “I was surprised by its quality. It was good work, not amateurish.” Calling it a “people’s show,” Martin explained the opening of “Latination II” will be more than just an art exhibit. It will be a community party held in conjunction with the LATINATION II downtown’s Where: Metro Galleries First Friday 1604 19th St. Bakersfield celebration. Hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Again, entries The juried art show, which opens on Sept. 3, will be on have poured display at the Metro into the Galleries through the month Metro Galof September. leries for the show. LATINATION II WINNERS Sponsors Best of Show: include MAS Alberto Herrera “Los Niños magazine, de la Revolucíon.” First Place: the BakersPerry Hoffman “Latin” field Heart Second Place: Hospital, Jorge Guillen “Untitled” Grimmway Farms, Dr. Luis Cousin of Premier Medical, attorney David Torres, Westamerica Bank, The Padre Hotel and attorney David Leon. Food will be provided by Lamont’s El Pueblo restaurant, with live entertainment and bands, including a Mariachi band, adding to the festivities. Martin said last year’s September First Friday event, which featured the first “Latination” show, was the most successful in 2009. The Bakersfield Police Department estimated downtown party-goers exceeded 4,000. Other downtown galleries, stores and restaurants, including The Padre Hotel, will have special events during First Friday and “Latination II.”
Herrera’s paintings show his Latination interpretation Alberto Herrera says it is easy for him to define “Latination.” It’s his life. Everything about his art embraces the concept. That is because he is Latino – born in south Texas, but reared in Bakersfield. Herrera’s acrylic painting, “La India Maria,” won “best of show” in last year’s first annual “Latination” show at the Metro Galleries. He entered three paintings in this year’s event. “My mother had passed away two months prior to me painting ‘La India Maria,’” recalled Herrera during a recent interview. “I was not painting. I just did not feel up to it.” But family and friends encouraged Herrera to paint a tribute to his mother, Maria, who died at the age of 79 from complications of heart disease and diabetes. “I was crying all the time I was painting,” said Herrera, adding that he was surprised and pleased that his painting was named “best of the show” and was depicted on the cover of MAS magazine. An art teacher at Fruitvale Junior High School in northwest Bakersfield, Herrera entered the following
three paintings in this year’s “Latination” show: “Las Tamboreras,” or drummer girls. “When I was little, my family would go to Juarez, Mexico, where my mother’s family moved from.” Herrera said he has vivid memories of visits to the area, and its festivals and “drummer girls” playing in the plazas. “Baile de los Viejitos,” or dance of the old men. Herrera explained that he was asked by the MECHA club at Cal State Bakersfield to design a logo and other illustrations to publicize a performance by a dance group from Mexico scheduled to perform in Bakersfield. Herrera had seen the group perform several years earlier. His painting “Baile de los Viejitos” is a spinoff from his MECHA assignment. “Los Ninos de las Revolucion,” or children of the revolution. “The revolution in Mexico is generally viewed as men fighting,” Herrera explained. “Women and maybe even children fought, too.” The three paintings Herrera has entered in “Latination II” embrace the Bakersfield artist’s interpretation of “Latination,” which he defines as the culture, history, food, dance and music of Latinos. “Everything I paint is Latino. It is my style.” —Dianne Hardisty Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 17
Hoffman uses Latino Connection for his artistic theme in Latination entries Latination is “all about color” for Santa Barbara artist Perry Michael Hoffman, who is entering two mosaics in the show that will open Sept. 3 at the Metro Galleries in downtown Bakersfield. “I have always felt a strong connection to the Latino community,” Hoffman said during a recent interview. “And color is a big part of my work.” Born in Los Angeles, Hoffman migrated to San Francisco in 1975, where he developed his work in color Xerox collage and mail art, photography, clay and small backyard gardens. Hoffman later moved to Santa Barbara, where his “life and job” is his art. His “current and thriving passion” is building mosaic altars. He also conducts classes in working with tile. For nearly a decade, Hoffman has been working on his “tile house” near Joshua Tree National Park in the desert, about 140 miles east of Los Angeles. Calling the project his “labor of love,” Hoffman is methodically installing tile
and mosaics that will eventually cover the entire inside and outside of the house. “The stark and open, hard and hot, sometimes freezing desert embraced me in 2000,” Hoffman explained on his blog www.magentaraves.workpress.com. He light-heartedly describes his mosaic work: “If I can touch it and break it, I can make art out of it.” In Joshua Tree, Hoffman said he “explored an even more in depth study of life and my surroundings with camera in hand and embarked on a mosaic project taking on an entire house.” The “tile house” is a work in progress that can be viewed on Hoffman’s blog www.tilehouse.wordpress.com. Hoffman, 57, said he makes frequent trips to Mexico, where his art has been influenced by the Latino culture and its dominant use of bright colors. “That fits naturally with tile.” Hoffman said he learned about the Metro Galleries’ Latination II show
through Santa Barbara friends who are acquainted with the Bakersfield gallery owner Don Martin. The mosaics Hoffman is entering in the show are dominated by rich color and Latin themes. “One of my favorite holidays it the ‘Day of the Dead,’” said Hoffman, indicating this is one of the themes included in his entries. —Dianne Hardisty
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WE’RE ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT YOU
Keeping a community happy and healthy isn’t easy. We know that. And we know it takes more than a hospital to do it. It takes partners who care as much about the welfare of Kern County as we do. That’s why Bakersfield Memorial Hospital seeks out great organizations that help us help you. Like Children’s Miracle Network, which raises millions for the kids who come to us for medical care. Kohl’s Cares for Kids, which donates profits from merchandise to programs that help young people avoid injuries,
diabetes, asthma and obesity. And Ronald McDonald House Charities, which offers families a nice place to stay on campus when their children are hospitalized. This community built our hospital back in the 1950s—and you can rest assured that we’ll always be here for you. Building partnerships to help us serve the community we all live in….every minute, every day. So, if you’ve got concerns, ideas, or plans for the well-being of the community we all love...It’s OK. We want to hear from you.
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Reep uses photography to show her love of bright colors Susan Reep of Bakersfield has been surrounded by art all her life. Her father, Ed Reep, is a nationally recognized watercolorist. Her mother, Pat Reep, has quilts on permanent display on public walls, including those in local libraries. But it has only been since Susan Reep’s retirement from teaching three years ago that she has focused on her own artistic expression. “I am not a professionally trained artist,” she said during a recent interview. But she has been taking photographs since she was 7 years old, when she asked her parents for a camera and began documenting family vacations, celebrations and other events. As her interest in photography grew, so did her skills, and sense of composition and design. She now focuses her photography as an art form, combining it with collages and paintings to tell her unique stories and share her life experiences.
Whether she is taking a trip to Costa Rica, or a drive along a country road in Alta Sierra, in the foothills east of Bakersfield, Reep is capturing images on her camera and using her mind’s eye to
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begin assembling her “photo stories.” Reep entered two such “stories” in the “Latination II” show at the Metro Galleries. Entitled “Festival” and “Going to the Festival,” they feature the bright colors Reep associates with Latination. They incorporate the “astonishing bright colors” Reep says she embraced during a trip to Costa Rica a few years ago. “All the houses were painted with these stunning, bright colors.” She notes the same bright colors are found in the flowers sold on Los Angeles’ famed Olvera Street and in typical depictions of the sun and the moon. “I am not pretending to be an expert on Latin culture or Latination,” says Reep. “It is whatever you see it as being. Others may see it differently. I can express what I think it is. I don’t have to be right.” Reep’s entries into the “Lationation II” show combine painted backgrounds, vintage fruit crate labels and photographs of a colorful feathered rooster onto canvass panels that are hung an inch apart. “It’s hard to say where my ideas come from,” says Reep. “They often just come to me all of a sudden.” —Dianne Hardisty
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MÁS | 21
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September 2010
Hundreds turn out for grand opening of Padre Hotel on Aug. 12 Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
More than 200 members and guests attended the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce grand opening for the Padre Hotel Aug. 12. The ribbon-cutting event was attended by many, including Mayor Harvey Hall, Superior Court Judge Robert Tafoya, representatives from Congressman Jim Costa’s Office, state Senators Roy Ashburn and Dean Flores offices, Kern County Supervisor Ray Watson’s office, and many other community leaders. Presentations were made to owner Brett Miller, General Manager Drew Hall, and Padre Staff for their opening of the hotel. Guests were treated to appetizers, champagne and refreshments, hotel tours, and music by Paul Perez and Jazz-trio in the prospect lounge and DJ Noe G in the Prairie Fire patio bar. The rooms and suites at the Padre Hotel offer fresh design schemes, highend amenities, and teak furnishings creating the perfect balance between style and substance. You can start your day off with breakfast and coffee at Farmacy Cafe. At lunch, enjoy food, drinks, and billiards in the Brimstone Bar. Join us for happy hour with signature cocktails and spectacular sunsets at Prairie Fire. Then it’s on to dinner in our fine dining restaurant, Belvedere. Finish the night (or just get it started) with dancing and drinks at Bakersfield’s hippest nightspot, Prospect.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF KCHCC
The Padre Hotel ribbon-cutting ceremony was a huge success, attracting local dignitaries, including Mayor Harvey Hall.
THE PADRE HOTEL • Located at 1702 18th St. • For more information contact (661) 4274900 or visit their Web site at www.thepadrehotel.com. Belvedere • Lunch: Monday - Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Dinner: Sunday - Thursday 5 to 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday 5 to 10 p.m. Farmacy • Breakfast: Monday - Friday 6 to 10 a.m.,
Saturday - Sunday 6 to 10:30 a.m. • Grab ‘n Go Sandwiches, Salads & Pastries: Sunday - Thursday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., Friday - Saturday 6 a.m. – 2 a.m. Brimstone Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Prospect Friday- Saturday 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Prairie Fire (Seasonal) Wednesday - Thursday 6 to 11 p.m., Friday - Saturday 6 to 2 a.m.
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Thank you to our membership renewals and welcome to our newest members. We appreciate your support.
RENEWALS For renewing their memberships, the KCHCC thanks: H.A. Sala, Attorney at Law Michael Rubio for State Senate General Tree Service Little Caesars Walker Lewis Rents
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS El Classificado Contact: Martha C. de la Torre 11205 Imperial Hwy Norwalk, CA 90650 (323) 837-4058 The Bail Guy Contact: Joe Serrano 1211 Chester Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 809-9342 Health Net www.healthnet.com
Sprint Extreme Wireless 8120 Rosedale Hwy Ste 200 Bakersfield, CA 93312 (661) 587-7070 Synergy Band Contact: Denise & Joey Zaza Chavira (661) 717-7043 Elite Chiropractic Contact: Dr. Carlos Reyes 2612 F Street Bakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 873-4151
A letter from Chair Herrera Dear Members and Friends, I would like to thank Donna Hollingsworth and the entire staff at AltaOne Federal Credit Union for hosting our August mixer as they did a fabulous job welcoming our chamber members and guests to their office. Great job! On Aug. 12th, we hosted a successful ribbon-cutting and grand opening for the beautiful Padre Hotel. Thank you to Brett Miller, Drew Hall, and the Padre staff for the wonderful hotel tours, appetizers and refreshments. It was a remarkable event. Well done! On Aug. 15th, we had our 16th annual Consumer Trade Show at the Kern County Fairgrounds. We had more than 50 vendors, great live entertainment, food court, and kids’ area. Thank you to all who attended.
It is with great pleasure to announce Maggie Ortega has joined out chamber as our new executive director. We are excited to have her. Please feel free to stop by the chamber office to say hello. Welcome Maggie! A warm welcome to our new chamber members and we thank our renewing members. We appreciate your continued support. For further information, please call the Chamber office at (661) 633-5495 or visit our Web site at www.kchcc.org. Wishing all of you continued success until next time. Sincerely,
Ramona Herrera Chair Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce State Farm Insurance
KCHCC BOARD Mission Statement: To create, promote and enhance business opportunities for our membership and provide business, cultural and resource linkages with emphasis on the Hispanic community. 2010 Executive Board CHAIR- Ramona Herrera CHAIR-ELECT - Jay Tamsi VICE-CHAIR - Donna Hermann SECRETARY- David Alanis TREASURER - Jan Bans For more information visit: www.kchcc.org or call the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce office at 633-5495.
Board of Directors Adam Alvidrez Chris Bernal Donna Hollingsworth Fran Trevino Joe Serrano Michael Urioste Ruben Gonzales Risto Rubio Executive Director Maggie Ortega Office Administrator Cyndi Imperial
For more information, visit: www.kchcc.org or call Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce office at 633-5495.
SAVE THE DATE Wednesday, Sept. 8 Business Mixer hosted by Valley Medical Group Inc 5401 White Lane 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. For information, contact 836-4000
Thursday, Oct. 14 Business Mixer hosted by Wells Fargo Bank 1300 22nd St. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. For information, contact 861-9971
Tuesday, Sept. 28 KCHCC & Employer Advisory Council Employer Seminar – Advantages to Hiring Veterans Career Services Center 1600 E. Belle Terrace Bakersfield, CA 93307 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For information, contact 635-2606
October 2010 KCHCC Golf Tournament For information, contact 6335495 Wednesday, Nov. 10 Business Mixer hosted by Double Tree Hotel 3001 Camino Del Rio Court 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. For information, contact 323-7111
Sept. 5, 2010
MÁS | 23
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AltaOne Federal Credit Union hosts August Mixer Contributed by KCHCC
AltaOne Federal Credit Union hosted the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce August Business Mixer. The business mixer at the bank, at 6501 Ming Ave., was a huge success, complete with great networking, and a warm welcome by Donna Hollingsworth, branch manager. Also in attendance were Robert Aslanian, business development manager; and AltaOne Federal Credit Union staff members. More than 100 chamber members and guests enjoyed a delicious array of appetizers and refreshments catered by Si Senor Restaurant. AltaOne is a community-based credit union established in 1947 servicing Kern, Inyo and Mono counties. They have 14 member service centers to serve you including one in Bakersfield, Tehachapi, California City, Boron, Kernville, Lake Isabella, Ridgecrest, Bishop, Lone Pine and Mammoth. The credit union can assist you with business loans, secured and unsecured lines of credit, business term loans, SBA loans, equipment loans, construction loans, as well as real estate purchase or refinance for income properties-both residential and commercial. AltaOne provides business deposit accounts with free and interest earning as well, business saving and certificates of deposits, visa cards for business with reward points, and online banking and bill pay. AltaOne also offers personal deposit accounts, and home, automobile and truck Loans. "As the provider of choice for financial services in its communities, AltaOne Federal Credit Union is dedicated to the credit union spirit of neighbor helping neighbor," states AltaOne's vision statement. The original sense of neighborly responsibility
24 | MĂ S Sept. 5, 2010
PHOTO COURTESY OF KCHCC
AltaOne Federal Credit Union celebrates an excellent mixer with KCHCC members.
ALTAONE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION For more information on AltaOne Federal Credit Union, go to www.AltaOne.org or visit one of their Bakersfield branches: Ming Member Service Center 6501 Ming Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93309 397-2555
that initiated the credit union at China Lake has been melded to a professional organization capable of meeting the variety of needs facing their members. AltaOne is always ready to work with members on individual, personal
Lobby Hours: M-Th 9-5 Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-2 Drive-thru Hours: M-Th 8:30-5:30 Friday 8:30-6:30 Saturday 8:30-2:30
needs. AltaOne’s strength and professionalism during the past 60 years has led to growth of assets of more than $500 million and more than 46,000 members.
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Hispanic Chamber selects Maggie Ortega as new Executive Director Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce new Executive Director Maggie Ortega. Ortega is a Kern County native, raised in the small town of Richgrove, just 10 minutes northeast of Delano. She is a graduate of Delano High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration and policy from California State University, Bakersfield. She contributes much of her academic and career success to her parents, who at one time worked in the agricultural fields and instilled the importance of higher edu-
cation. “My parents are my role models,” Ortega said. “Their examples of responsibility and commitment have guided me in my career. “My background provides me with a familiarity of the diversity of our community as well as the needs of business owners,” she said. “And I plan to carry out the values and examples my parents have taught me as the executive director.” A Bakersfield resident, Ortega brings 18 years of combined experience and a background in marketing, advertising, and business services to her new role as the chamber’s executive director.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KCHCC
Maggie Ortega
KCHCC holds grand opening, ribbon-cutting for Tony’s Pizza Coffee Road location Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Special to MAS
Guests were treated to delicious food during the grand opening of the newest Tony’s Pizza location. Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted the ribbon cutting for the new Tony’s Pizza location, at 4750 Coffee Road. The business provided their delicious pizza and an assortment of appetizers and refreshments for everyone in attendance. Tony Martinez Sr. and his family own and operate various Tony’s Pizza location in Kern and Tulare counties, including two in Bakersfield, one Delano and Porterville, among other locations. The pizza place is famous for its special “Chile Verde” pizza. The chamber is pleased to have them as new members, please stop by and try their delicious food.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KCHCC
Tony’s Pizza welcomes a new location on Coffee Road with the help of KCHCC members.
BAKERSFIELD LOCATIONS:
DELANO LOCATION:
• 4130 California Avenue (661) 325-4717
• 1806 Cecil Ave. (661) 725-6678
• 4750 Coffee Road (661) 588-4700
Sept. 5, 2010
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NO E G.
IN THE MIXX
‘Mixx’ it up with Noe G bands. Tickets are $65 at Vallitix.com or by calling (661) 322-5200. You can also buy them at Lenthwise Brewing Co. and Frugatti’s Eatery. Don’t wait till the last minute. This event will sell out because there are a lot of borrachos out there.
W
elcome back gente, another month gone, can you smell the fair? It’s coming, so think of who owes you money and catch them at the fair lol! Because that’s where you run into all the people you haven’t seen in a long time. Shouts to the homie H.A. Sala , Sylvia Mendez and Judge Robert Tafoya, who were in attendance at the KCHCC ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Padre Hotel. Always good to see you guys. Lowrider Nationals Car Show and Concert came into town, showing the best in lowriders along with a cool concert featuring Baby Bash, DJ Quik and local up-in-coming artist Geek’d Up, who may I say rocked the stage. Look out for these kids. They’re gonna be big someday! Recording group The Far East Movement performed their hit song “Like A G6” at The Nile and rocked it. Local Web site 66one.com has now launched a cool Internet radio show, which features local DJs mixing a variety of music, Spanish to hip hop and everything in between. Check it out at thecorelive.com.
By NOE G. Contributing Columnist
Have an event you want to share with MÁS? E-mail: noeg01@live.com
Birthday shouts to Risto Rios over at Mission Funeral, Alexis Romero, and also mi hermano y mi hermana Nora DeDios and Libe Garcia, may you have a cool birthday day! Love, the Garcia Family. OK now let’s get into the mixx and see what’s up for this month.
Viva La Cerveza & Vino Village Fest 2010 is coming to the Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave., Sept. 11. Come out and get a taste of over 100 different brews , unlimited food samples from over 30 of Bakersfield’s finest restaurants and the best wine being served. Also over five stages of live music by local
HAPPY 50TH ANNIVERSARY! Right: Ruben, Julian, Joey, Bernice & Becky, with their parents, Rosa & Julian Jimenez, married for 50 years. Below: Alyssa, Jacqueline, Destiny, Anna, Julianna, with their dad, Julian, and grandfather Julian.
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Laughing is good for the Heart! Comedian Ralphie May returns for a second time to the Fox Theater, 2001 H St. You’ve seen this funny guy on Comedy Central, and you won’t be disappointed when he rolls into town Sept. 23. Tickets are $29.50 at Vallitix.com or call (661) 322-5200. Doors open at 7 p.m., and show starts at 8 p.m. So grab the homies and come out and laugh your nalgas off!
ArtFest 2010 San Joaquin Community Hospital presents Art Fest 2010, benefiting the Young Artist of the Boys and Girls Club. Save the Date Saturday Sept. 25, 6 to 10 p.m. inside the Moorea Banquet Centre. Come out and enjoy delectable delights, a little winetasting, exciting silent and live auction and some of the coolest artwork from the stars
of the night, the children of the Boys and Girls Club. Tickets are $60, for more info contact Ricki Foster at 661-325-3730. See you there!
Sunday Funday Ill Rah productionz presents Session Sundayz inside Agave Grill and Cantina, 250 Oak St. It goes down every Sunday 5 p.m. to closing with Dj Damage and DJ Editt mixing up all the Latin house and Top 40 shakers. There’s no cover charge at this party, but you do have to be 21 with ID to kick it! More info: (661) 3224283. Make it a fun day every Sunday! Alright people, that’s it for me. Make it a great month, and support all your local events. Remember party safe, and don’t drink and drive. Peace out and don’t hate. —– Much love, Noe G! Shouts to Irma at CBCC, Mayor Harvey Hall (now you’re in MAS, lol), Happy Birfsday Jay Tamsi, Bartender Brandon at Marriott, Drew at The Padre Hotel and Hollywood actor Danny Trejo (Look out for the exclusive Noe G interview with Danny next month). Machete the Movie coming soon.
ENTERTAINMENT
Viva Velorio!
Velorio continues to blaze music trails
By Matt Muñoz, MÁS Staff
T
wo years ago, the Bakersfield Latin rock quintet was being watched on international TV after winning SiTV’s ‘Jammin’ online band battle and making it to the finals broadcast. Although the band lost to a group described as another “future pop music casualty,” it was probably better that Velorio took home the consolation prize. After all, most reality show competition winners fall into obscurity sooner than later. Not Velorio. Like most new bands making a big impression in highprofile places early in their careers, Velorio took the experience and immediately planned their next moves — writing new music and touring across the country. “We’ve been expanding,” said Velorio lead-vocalist and guitarist Alvaro Caceres of the band’s continued mission. “And preparing ourselves for the next step.” Carefully plotting their next career move, fellow band members Ben Gomez, bass; Eric Powers, keys; Adrian Nevarez, percussion; Jason Blakely, drums, bass, have already scored some choice gigs for an unsigned band. Headlining the Hollywood House of Blues this past year, the band has also performed at L.A.’s Conga Room and been a featured band at various artist showcases, thanks to their manager and booking agent Claudia Guerrero of Southern California-based,
PHOTO BY ALEX OMEGA/COURTESY OF VELORIO
Velorio, from left, Adrian Nevarez, Jason Blakely, Alvaro Caceres, Ben Gomez, and Eric Powers.
Chicle Atomico Promotions. “To survive in this game, everything has to be streamlined so we don’t step on each other’s toes. Claudia began booking us more than the LA bands because we wanted to work,” Gomez said. “She’s been an immense help to us.” Building their fanbase via their MySpace and Facebook pages, the group’s “brick by brick” approach has also put them on the road in some interesting travel arrangements from California to Oregon, even as far as Chicago. Making their recent trek aboard a tour bus that runs entirely on used kitchen grease, the band ventured through city alleys requesting contributions from various restaurants. “We refer to it as our environmentally conscious tour,” Caceres laughed. “The Asian mom and pop restaurants
had the best grease.” Percussionist Nevarez, also a recent CSUB graduate, added his own description for filling the 120 gallon converted fuel tank that included a simple hose and batteryoperated pump. “We put on the rubber gloves and went for it. We’d jump out and just go, go, go…” In addition to thinking outside of the box when it comes to touring, the band has also steered their music in a different direction. Originally a jam-based band with extended solos and multi-layered percussion, Powers explained their new course to keep things light. “We’ve been concentrating on simplicity. When we first started out we had a home studio we used to record as much as we can. Things became muddled,” explained Powers.
Hit tracks like “Entregate,” and “Lights, Camera, Dissatisfaction” from their latest sessions are radio-friendly jams with the right blend of the band’s strongest musical elements. Catch the band live and there’s no resisting their invitation pa’ bailar. “The dance game is addicting, and we love making people dance,” said Caceres. So, as the world’s 'Roc en Espanol' scene seems to be taking a creative siesta by trying to imitate their U.S. idols, Velorio’s music reminds you of why you still wear your old Caifanes T-shirt. You can’t bring back the dead, but you can rest assured that within the armies of bands spinning their wheels – there is hope in the Valle Central. “It’s only going to get better,” said Powers. On the Web: www. veloriomusic.com Sept. 5, 2010
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GENTE GALLERY Los Lonely Boys concert Aug. 4, 2010 Held at Fox Theater Photos by José Treviño
Mateo and Nancy Gallegos
David Lugan, Beanna Diaz, Yasmin Sanchez and Nick Willey
David Hernandez and Mona Urquizo
Xavier Ruiz and Otis King
Horacio and Ruth Fernandez
Jesse Gonzales and Joey Medina
Oscar Iniego and MaryAnn Narvaez
Jose Luis and Maricela Ocampo
•Access – 24 Hours a day, 7 Days aweek 365 Days a Year •State-of-the art 24 Hour Security
661-615-1010 Noelia and Joe Garcia, Sandra Poh and Leticia Garza
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USA MAXISTORAGE 3023 Unicorn Road • Bakersfield, Ca 93308 [freeway 99 and Hwy 65 exit]
GENTE GALLERY MAOF & State Farm Event July 7, 2010. Held at Career Services Center in Bakersfield. Photos by Tanya X. Leonzo
Greg Sherlock, Carlos Cruz, Megan Person and Alicia Kolbus
Lydia Rogers and David Alaniz
Bay Hilborn and Ramona Herrera
Nicole Soto-Garcia and Sylvia Walker
Jorge Solis Jr., Angelica Almaguer and David Alaniz
Victor Portillo and Carlos Cruz
Jose Jimenez and Alan Barajas
Martin Castro, Mercedes Ortiz and Christopher C. Ward
• Large in-stock selection of aluminum and vinyl framed windows. • Custom retro-fit orders available.
Hundreds of surplus windows.
BUILDERS SURPLUS
ph (661) 633-1926 • fax (661) 633-1164 728 S. Union Ave. • Bakersfield Sept. 5, 2010
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GENTE GALLERY CSUB save wrestling MMA event August 14, 2010 at Icardo Sports Center Photos by José Treviño
Isiah Miranda, Poncho Miranda, and Samuel Loera
Jakquelynn Soto, Mandy Muniz, Makaila Gonzales and Genesis Cervera
Marty Williamson and Mayor Harvey Hall
JR Flores and Matt Moreno
Carlos Rivera and David Mancha
Steve Hernandez and Roberto Vargas
Jenna Jameson and Tito Ortiz
Ring girls
Joey Maya, Jeff Guess and Billy Moore
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Chris, Ashley and Joe Aguilar
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Sept. 5, 2010
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