SEPTEMBER 2009
CONTENTS 8 SUPER ready History made as Christine Lizardi Frazier takes over as superintendent
16 Cover story A colorful burst of artistry hits the local art scene with a Latin flair.
Working for the U.S. Air Force has its
10 Power to the Tower
rewards. Respect, for one. Not to
Once again, MÁS Magazine will present Tower of Power at the fair!
14 In the Mixx Our own Noe G. makes sure you fill your September calendar with fun!
RESPECT. IT’S JUST PART OF WHAT YOU’LL EARN FOR A LIVING. mention a good salary, great benefits,
24 KCHCC noticias Read the September newsletter for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
a quality lifestyle and the chance to do something important with your life. All in all it adds up to quite a benefits package. To find out more, call 1-800-423-USAF or visit airforce.com.
CROSS INTO THE BLUE
Come in for a test save. STAFF EDITORIAL Olivia Garcia VP/Content ogarcia@bakersfield.com Gene Garaygordobil Managing Editor ggaraygordobil@bakersfield.com 716-8642 Teresa Adamo Associate Editor tadamo@bakersfield.com Matt Muñoz Staff Writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com Sandra Molen Staff Writer/Copy Editor smolen@bakersfield.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MARIA AHUMADA-GARAYGORDOBIL, NOE GARCIA, JOSEY HERNANDEZ, DENISE ORNELAS, DEBORAH RAMIREZ, GABRIEL RAMIREZ, EDDIE RONQUILLO
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS FELIX ADAMO, MARIA AHUMADA-GARAYGORDOBIL, DANIELA GARCIA, HENRY A. BARRIOS, TANYA X. LEONZO
ON THE COVER: Local artist, Alberto Herrera entered this painting, “India Maria” in the “Latination” exhibit on display at Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. PHOTO BY: Felix Adamo ADVERTISING
Total average savings of *
633
$
Let me show you how combining home and auto policies can add up to big savings. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
Jaime de los Santos Sales Manager jdelossantos@bakersfield.com 716-8632 Gustavo Carrillo Sales Executive Mark Wells Sales Executive Anthony Menchaca Sales Executive William Guerro Sales Executive
ART
OFFICE
Glenn Hammett Design Editor ghammett@bakersfield.com
Marisol Sorto Office Administrator msorto@bakersfield.com 716-8640
04 | MÁS September 2009
Ramona Herrera, Agent Insurance Lic. #: 0D28304 551 Central Avenue Shafter, CA 93263 Bus: 661-746-3961
*Average annual household savings based on national 2008 survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL P097197 04/09
OLIVIA GARCIA
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
A month of celebrations eptember is a special month for MÁS. This month, MÁS Magazine, in partnership with Metro Galleries in downtown Bakersfield, kicks off the art show, “Latination: A celebration and exploration of Latino Life.” More than 60 entries from local artists were submitted as part of the juried exhibit. The goal was to interpret what you felt reflected Latino life, Latino culture. I had the opportunity to get a sneak peek as one of the judges. I caught so many beautiful pieces of paintings, photography and more. It was beautiful to see such great talent brewing within our communities. A special reception, held Sept. 4, recognized the artists. I’d like to thank the sponsors who made this exhibit possible:
S
Grimmway Farms; Dr. Luis Cousin, Attorney David Torres; Kim Jessup; and Icon Printing Solutions. We hope to make this an annual event. In addition, I’d like to give recognition to others who participated as well: Luis Aguilar of El Pueblo, Mento Buru, Velorio, DJ Raully De La Rosa, and organizers of the 13th annual Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (to be held Oct. 11-16). So if you are looking to explore Latino art, please stop by Metro Galleries at 1604 19th St. this month. The hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. Or, you can make an appointment by calling, 634-9598. Here’s a special shout-out to our readers and advertisers: On Sept. 16, MÁS will turn 4 years old! ¡Gra-
cias por todo su apoyo! Thank you for all your support! We wouldn’t be here with you. Here’s to el futuro! Speaking of the future, MÁS Magazine is proud to once again sponsor Tower of Power, which is set to perform Sept. 24 at the Kern County Fair. We will be holding an online contest for free Tower of Power tickets through our masbakersfield.com Web site, so make sure you are registered to receive e-newsletter alerts. When the contest takes place, we will be alerting our online readers through an enewsletter alert. Last but not least, I want to wish a very “Happy Birthday” to my youngest son. My little Cruz turns 1 this month. I love you, baby. I have been blessed with a sweet, loving boy. You sure complete our familia’s heart and more.
September 2009
MÁS | 05
HEALTH
It’s a gamble By Gene Garaygordobil MÁS Managing Editor
LAS VEGAS — iabetes and Las Vegas don’t seem to mix well, like one of those $1 well drinks you get at a non-strip casino. But I was able to make it out alive and well, and with a little bit of money left in my pockets on our recent trip. Sure, it wasn’t like one of those trips with your buddies or just you and your significant other. Not only did I take my diabetes with me, but my wife, my two kids, my in-laws and their three kids. Suffice to say that a party of nine wasn’t exactly the party you do in Vegas. Don’t get me wrong. We
D
had fun. Just not the fun most people say should “Stay in Vegas.” And this isn’t our first “Mexican-family style” trip to Vegas. We’ve done it at least three other times. Heck, my kids have been to Vegas more times than some of my adult friends. We already know what it means to “not” stay out all night drinking and gambling on the strip. As a matter of fact, we usually get a hotel downtown, which is where we stayed this time, The Plaza Hotel. Incidentally, it’s where my wife and I got married 11 years ago! My family left in two cars on Thursday afternoon, reaching Primm or Stateline, Nevada by about 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Continued on page 13
Sin City & diabetes make for a manageable combination, despite all the temptations
PHOTO BY MARIA AMUHADA-GARAYGORDOBIL
Can a diabetic manage the lure of those infamous, all-you-caneat Las Vegas buffets?
(661) 323-2901 1119 18th St. • Bakersfield, CA
Dinner Special
• Take Out • Home Delivery • Banquet Rooms • Cocktail Lounge • Catering
(Not For Take Out)
ALL DINNER SERVED WITH: Egg Flower Soup, Fried Shrimp, Egg Roll, Pork Fried Rice & Pork Chow Mein
and the selection of one of the following dishes…
Lemon Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken
Sweet & Sour Chicken
Beef with Broccoli
Pork Chow York
Pork w/ Garlic Sauce
Rice Bowl Special Beef
Sesame Chicken
• Beef Chop Suey • Beef with Bell Pepper • Chicken Chop Suey • Chicken Mushroom Chow York • Chicken w/ Cashewnut
06 | MÁS September 2009
• Mix Vegetable Delight 3 different styles • Orange Chicken of chow mein: • Pork Chop Suey • Spicy Chicken Pork chow mein w/ Pan fried soft Noodle
Spicey Beef
House Special Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken
Sweet & Sour Pork
Almond Dice Chicken General Tao’s Chicken
Pork chow mein w/ crunchy noodle cantonese pork chow mein
VIDA
An out of this world hero By Vicki Adame Special to MÁS
eroes. I can think of no better moment to stop and honor those Latinos amongst us who have overcome what, at times, appeared to be insurmountable odds than Hispanic Heritage Month. I’m going to use this space to talk about a man who is a dear friend, who overcame obstacles and who, at this moment, is finally back on tierra firma after spending 13 days orbiting in space as a member of the space shuttle Discovery. Jose M. Hernandez served as a mission specialist II/flight engineer. For Jose, this was the culmination of a dream that was years in the making. Through his hard work and dogged determination, his dream came true. Hernandez was born in San Joaquin County, just outside Stockton. His parents, Salvador
H
Jose Hernandez
and Julia Hernandez were migrant farm workers, who every year — along with Jose’s two brothers and sister — would leave La Piedad, Michoacán and head to California. Each March, the family followed the harvest, starting in the Imperial Valley and finishing in the Stockton area. By mid November, they would begin the two-day car trip back to Michoacán. Jose still tells the tale of how his dad would heat cans of Campbell’s soup on the car’s engine block. Jose didn’t learn English until he was 12. And although his family settled in Stockton — at the urging of one of Jose’s teachers, who saw potential in him and his siblings — it was by no means the end of laboring in the fields. On weekends and during school vacations, Jose and his siblings continued to toil alongside his farm worker parents. It was in those fields that the seed to go into
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Continued on page 20
Sabrina Smith
September 2009
MÁS | 07
EDUCATION
Christine Lizardi Frazier Latina superintendent heads Kern County Schools at a time of great change & challenge By Gabriel Ramirez Special to MÁS
ust as Sonia Sotomayor became the first Latina Supreme Court Justice, Christine Lizardi Frazier broke ground as the first female and first Hispanic Kern County Superintendent of Schools. The 57-year-old Lizardi Frazier is the 20th Kern County Superintendent of Schools replacing Larry E. Reider, who retired June 30. While being a Latina in such a high position is a major accomplishment, much like Sotomayor, it is not the most important aspect. “It is about being able to do the job,” she said. Magda Menendez, MAOF Administrator, agreed.
J
LEARN
TO
PRIMP
LIKE
A
PHOTO BY JENN IRELAND
Christine Frazier at a special assembly at Wingland Elementary School.
“The fact the most qualified person in this case happens to be a female and Latina is just plain pretty,” Menendez said. “Ms. Frazier strikes me as someone who has worked hard her entire professional career for the betterment of all of our children’s education. She will obviously have a sensitivity to Latinos and their needs based on her own experiences as a Latina.” Lizardi Frazier’s experiences go back to her high school says where
she made sandwiches in a lunch truck. Neither Lizardi Frazier’s parents graduated from high school. Her father dropped out to join the Navy and later become a barber for more than 60 years. While both Lizardi Frazier’s parents spoke Spanish the second-generation Latina did not. “Good or bad they believed that their children would not go through what they had gone through and raised my brother, sister and myself Continued on page 28
PRO
COME CHECK OUT SEPHORA’S BEAUTY STUDIO, a gorgeous new makeover destination. Experience Express Services, and score an ultraquick personalized makeup lesson. You’ll leave wearing one of today’s most sought-after looks. Whether you want to master the smoky eye, pucker up with the perfect pout or test-drive the latest high-definition makeup, our pros will teach you step by step.
EXPRESS
Valley Plaza Mall
New Clients Only. Offer expires 9/30/09
(661) 633-1901
08 | MÁS September 2009
6001-A Truxtun Ave. Suite 110
16 de Septiemb re
2009 Dodge Ram 1500
20
mpg city
Based on 2008 EPA estimates.
(661) 398-0264 3000 Harris Road Bakersfield Auto Mall
10
YEAR
DODGE • KIA
100,000 MILE WARRANTY
Se Habla Español www.haddaddodge.net
• 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty • 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty • 5-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty • 5-year/60,000-mile 24-hour roadside assistance All warranties are limited. See dealer for complete details.
KIA MOTORS The power to surpriseTMTM
Coolest New Car Under $18,000 KIA
(661) 398-0264
Se Habla Español • www.haddaddodge.net
5445 Gasoline Alley Dr. Bakersfield Auto Mall
ENTERTAINMENT
Bakersfield favorites return to the KC Fair on Sept. 24 COURTESY PHOTO
The power of Tower! BY MATT MUÑOZ MÁS staff
akersfield’s adopted funky family is coming back to visit. MÁS Magazine presents Bay Area’s finest — Tower of Power — at the KC Fair’s Budweiser Pavilion, Thursday, Sept. 24, at 8 p.m. The concert is free with fair admission. Horn-heavy creators of “The Oakland Stroke,” along with classics like, “You’re Still A Young Man,” “What is Hip?” and “Soul Vaccination”
B
10 | MÁS September 2009
among others — T.O.P.’s live show is a must for local music fans. With 16 studio albums, numerous compilations and imports, and live albums under their collective belt, Tower of Power, or T.O.P., have maintained their loyal following. And much like their SF musical brethren, Santana, Tower of Power continues to keep their creative pulse pounding by recording and performing regularly to soldout crowds everywhere.
Scoring a big break after auditioning for San Francisco artistic visionary, Bill Graham, during the heyday of the famed Fillmore West in the 1960’s, the band entered the Bay Area’s psychedelic music scene as young innovators. Who would have thought a band of soul music playing teenagers could infiltrate the “Flower Power” masses with sophisticated musical and funky styles — beyond the works of “The Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, that is. That was more than 40
years ago, and the band hasn’t slowed down one bit. In April, T.O.P. released their latest CD, “The Great American Soulbook,” a collection of soul classics, performed by the band and some special guests. UK soulstress Joss Stone, Tom Jones, rhythm & blues legend Sam Moore, and Huey Lewis all lent their voices to the project. Some songs included on the disc are, “I Thank You,” “It Take Two,” “Mr. Pitiful,” and “634-5789.” Looking at the disc’s liner Continued on page 12
September 2009
MĂ S | 11
Continued from page 10
notes, recording sessions also included keyboardist George Duke, and original guitarist Bruce Conte. All packed with the T.O.P. touch, “The Great American Soulbook,” is a fitting tribute to their musical inspirations as well as a reminder that no one does funkier better than Tower. During last year’s KC Fair appearance, MÁS presented bandleader, Emilio Castillo, with the “MÁS Magazine Community Service Award” for his contributions to the arts. Castillo gracefully accepted the award and spoke of his love for the city of Bakersfield. Past recipients include Los Lobos and Bakersfield percussionist, Louie Cruz, among others. Tower of Power’s present line-up includes: Castillo — tenor sax, Stephen “Doc” Kupka — baritone sax, Francis “Rocco” Prestia — bass, David Garibaldi — drums, Larry Braggs — lead vocals, Roger Smith — keyboards, Tom E. Politzer — first tenor
MÁS presents: Tower of Power • Thursday, Sept. 24 at 8 p.m. • KC Fair Budweiser Pavilion • Admission free with fair admission www.kerncountyfair.com
sax, alto sax, Adolfo Acosta — trumpet, Michael Bogart — lead trumpet, and Mark Harper — guitar. The annual KC Fair Tower of Power show can best be described as a sort of “reunion night” for attendees. While dancing along to all the classic hits, take a look aroundand you’re bound to see old friends, musicians and families with kids, all bouncing in tune. It just goes to show, the power of “Tower!” www.towerofpower.com Log-on to: www.masbakersfield.com for a chance to win VIP seating to the concert!
Paula Barlow - lost 31 lbs
before
after
Edrico Oliver - lost 44.5 lbs
before
12 | MÁS September 2009
after
PHOTO BY HOLLY CARLYLE
MÁS staffers Matt Muñoz and Elaine Estrada present Emilio Castillo with a commemorative edition of MÁS at the 2008 fair.
Tower of Power facts: ■ Bandleader Emilio Castillo’s heritage is Mexican and Greek. ■ The band was originally known as The Motowns, before changing it to the “hipper” name, Tower of Power during a recording session in Hayward, Calif. ■ James Brown made T.O.P. record listening sessions mandatory for his own band.
■ “You’re Still a Young Man,” is loosely based on a personal experience of Castillo’s. ■ Bakersfield saxophonist Paul Perez recorded on ensemble sessions for ‘93’s “T.O.P.” CD. ■ T.O.P has continued to perform non-stop since forming in 1968. ■ Emilio’s favorite part about performing at the fair — besides the fans — is the lengua tacos!
20 Contestants... Avg 40 lbs lost... All in 10 weeks!!! The results are in from TERRIO Therapy-Fitness’ weight-loss competition which aired on KUZZ. Top male Roy Miller lost 87.5 lbs; Top female Mitzi Villalon lost 59 lbs. Altogether our 20 contestants lost a total of 808 lbs using our innovative TERRIO Lifestyle program. We take your Metabolic Test, we setup your online meal plan, we give you the personal training, and watch as the unwanted weight falls off. For information on how you can sign up for this exact same weigh-loss program, call 377-1700 or visit myTERRIO.com for more information or to view pictures, bios, and stats for all 20 contestants!
661-377-1700 myTERRIO.com
Continued from page 06
Almost immediately, we hit the Buffalo Bill Hotel’s pool for a bit, before being kicked out by a security guard. We met up with my in-laws on the casino floor about 9:30 p.m. after unpacking and drying the kids off. We had eaten on the way up, but the kid’s were hungry. My wife took them to McDonald’s, while my father-in-law, Paul, and I set out to do a little gambling. I walked around and didn’t really see any machines I liked. Paul sat at a quarter-slot machine and quickly lost his money. I walked over to the penny-slots, finding a “Deal-or-No-Deal” machine and plunked in $10. I was getting close to losing it all, when I hit some combination that soon had me watching a bunch of pretty women with money cases. After making a few selections, I noticed I now had topped $96. I quickly cashed out and walked to the casino cage to cash in my ticket. I met up with the entire family now sitting outside McDonald’s. I told them I had won on the slots, and now had made back all the money we had spent on dinner, gas and the $20 room! I also had temptation staring me in the face. My daughter offered me a third of her double cheeseburger and a handful of fries. I washed it down with an apple pie. Not exactly what I should be doing at 10:30
p.m., but I had just won money. I was excited. And tomorrow we would be heading into Vegas! On Friday, I woke up and checked my blood sugar. Fearing the worst, I was happy to see 128 flashing on my meter. Remember, between 70 and 130 is considered normal. We left to Vegas around 12:30 p.m. (about an hour drive), after letting the kids do the Log Ride at Buffalo Bill’s three times. And my luck continued on the Deal or No Deal machines, this time in the arcade. And although I didn’t win money, I did manage to win tickets for my kids to buy those worthless prizes. I won the maximum 400 tickets twice. We decided to stop for lunch in Jean, Nevada at the Gold Strike Casino (about a half hour from Vegas). After eating there, the kids headed to the free arcade downstairs. My wife eagerly put $20 into a nickel “Wheel of Fortune” game and lost it all. I gave her another $20 from my pocket and told her she would win something with it. When I came back about 10 minutes later, she had won $175. I told her to quit, which made her mad, but she cashed out, gave me $75, and she plopped another $20 into the machine. As I sat next to my father-inlaw at another quarter slot, she came walking by and said she’d lost her $20, but was happy to have an extra $80 in her
pocket. We then left to Vegas, fuller and satisfied that we had won a little more money. But first, a trip to the Vegas outlets. Oh my! How fast our money was gone. Sure, my kids each got two pairs of Vans for $56 total, along with other great bargains. Are we the only familia to go school shopping in Vegas? Maybe. As for me, I figured it was time to splurge, and I surely did that evening. I took in about 36 ounces of a Margarita on the rocks (I later measured the football using the 32-ounce water container I carry with me). I would also drink two Coronas, while playing a quarter roulette-slot machine. I put in $10 and played for about an hour, before losing it all. I put in another $5 and soon had my machine at more than $80. I would later cash out at $60, with a gain of $45. Overall, not a bad trip. Heck, we even stopped at Jack-in-the-box during our way home Tuesday night. I ordered a Sourdough Jack and curly fries, which I shared with my wife, son and daughter. What would be my blood sugar on Wednesday morning, a much more manageable 117. So, I really did come home a winner, at least as a diabetic. Now if there was only something that could be done about those darn Vegas outlet stores, I would have come back with my winnings, too!
David A. Torres ATTORNEY AT LAW State Bar #135059
Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer Federal and State Criminal Defense Cases Over 21 years Trial Experience
326-0857 1318 “K” Street Bakersfield, CA 93301 Fax: (661) 326-0936 Cell: (661) 301-0123 www.lawtorres.com Visa, MasterCard accepted September 2009
MÁS | 13
NO E G.
IN THE MIXX
‘Mixx’ it up with Noe G. W
By NOE G. | Contributing Columnist
Do you know of a comedy show, play, nightclub or other event that you want to share with MÁS magazine? E-mail it to: noeg@ massvmixx.com or tadamo@ bakersfield.com
elcome back to In the Mixx, your oncea-month hook up for all the info on cool events, clubs, concerts and, of course, once in awhile, mention of a good restaurant or some new music out there. Bakersfield has been getting some good acts lately. The Lowrider Nationals Car Show put on another good show with live performances by rap artist Twista , Mack 10 , The NewBoyz and old schooler, Paper Boy. Big ups to everyone who supported. Back in the day, band “Midnight Star” and “The Dazz Band” packed the house at The Nile. Too $hort even rolled through town for the second time to perform. OK, enough rambling, let’s get the ball rolling and find out what’s good for the month of September.
Get out your boots! This one’s for the country folks — country recording artist Travis Tritt will perform at The Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Thursday night,
Sept. 17. Tickets are $ 47.50$59.50 at vallitix.com. Travis will perform unplugged, so this will be one heck of a show! Don’t miss it — yeeee-haaaww!
Brew bonanza — be there! VillageFest 2009 hits the Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. Saturday, Sept. 12, from 6 to 10 p.m. Sample over 100 different brews, mingle with friends and dance to the hottest bands like Mento Buru, Thee Majestics, Fatt Katt & the Von Zippers and more. Tickets are $60, which includes 15 drink samples and unlimited food samples. Tickets can be purchased at: vallitix.com, Lengthwise Brewery and Frugatti’s Italian Eatery. Get them early — they will sell out. See you there! And BEHAVE!
Tri-tip treasure I’m always hooking you guys up with some new spots to eat, right? Well, ever since one of my favorite spots to get a good sandwich closed down, The Cot-
tage, I’ve been on the hunt for that next good tri-tip sandwich. I found it! It’s at Union Station Deli, 1723-A 18th St., across from the downtown post office. My supervisor Jim told me about it and I have to agree with him — it is the bomb, lol! The menu has everything from cold, signature and hot sandwiches, salads, Philly Cheese Steak, soups — go check it out yourself and again, let me know what you think! They’re open Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and they also deliver to a limited area and during limited times. For info, call 661-3229090. And enjoy!
A Majestic celebration Don’t miss the big 35th Anniversary Throw Down for local super band, Thee Majestics, at Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, Saturday night, Sept. 19. Cover charge is only $5! Remember, 21-and-over, drink specials, and some cool funk, Old School and cumbias, so like they say, bring your dancing shoes and getcho party on! Doors open at 8 p.m. and reservations suggested. More info at 834-1611.
Fair time! Head’s up! The Kern County Fair starts on Sept. 23 through Oct. 4. Hours are 3 to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 3 to 11 p.m., Friday; noon to 11 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. This year’s theme is “Best in the West 2009.” Well, there you go, gente — have a safe and cool month! And remember, don’t drink and drive and don’t hate — peace out, Noe G!
Shout-outs:
COURTESY PHOTO
Shiny, cool and low — you could find mucho nice rides at this year’s Lowrider Nationals.
14 | MÁS September 2009
Happy B-day to the homie Jay Tamsi — another year older; the homie Eddie Garcia, Happy Bday; Congratulations to Chris & Raquel Aguirre on making it official!
1
e S e 16 d
e r b m ptie
NISSAN 2800 Pacheco Rd. OF BAKERSFIELD 661-835-8600 www.nissanofbakersfield.com
In The Bakersfield Automall Business Hours: • Sun 10:00 am-8:00 pm • Mon-Fri 8:00 am-9:00 pm • Sat 9:00 am-9:00 pm
Prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. All vehicles subject to prior sale. Prices expire at close of business on date of publication.
COVER STORY
Cultural creations Part population reflection, part artistic expression & part powerful emotions, the local arts scene embraces Latino arte. By Teresa Adamo MÁS staff
ince art is said to be in the eye of the beholder, it’s tough to pinpoint the exact reason people gravitate to the local, thriving Latino art scene. Of course, it might be as simple as there are now so many reasons and examples of local Latino art to behold! Call it a reflection of community, a love of color or just plain artistic admiration, art created and/or inspired by the Hispanic cultura is alive and well in Kern County. And by all accounts, it’s here to stay. In fact, together with Metro Galleries owner, Don Martin, MÁS Magazine presents “Latination: A Celebration and Exploration of Latino Life,” a juried art exhibition focusing on Latino-inspired works. The show features local artists’ Latino-inspired creations and runs through Oct. 1. The event is also a celebration of MÁS Magazine’s fourth anniversary.
S
‘Explosive growth’ All it takes is a visit to a local art gallery — and there are now a good number of them — to see the impact and influence of Hispanic art and its creators. Much of that is credited to the expansion of the genre and the Hispanic population (Kern County is about 40 percent Hispanic), along with the arts scene and artists community, according to local experts. “I think there’s been a tremen-
16 | MÁS September 2009
“Dolores C. Huerta” by local artist Larry Jason is a “Latination” entry.
Left: “Dead Couple” by Gage Opdenbrouw will also be on display during the “Dia de Los Muertos” art show at BMOA. Below: “Crazy Chicken” by Claudia True is another entry in the “Latination” juried exhibit.
loa
dous growth (in the local Latino arts) the past few years, particularly among younger, emerging artists,” said Martin of Metro Galleries on 19th Street in downtown Bakersfield. “I believe that much of it has to do with the explosive growth we’ve seen in our local arts community — with several new galleries, venues and groups forming.” One ripple effect resulting with the increase in the art venues in town is the increase in younger artists, Martin said. “Many young artists, including Latinos, have been able to show their work to a diverse group of people,” he said. After all, the more art and the more galleries to show it, the more people will be exposed to the often high energy, colorful
and culturally-connective works. “I also find a certain passion in many creations by Latin artists,” Martin said.
A cross-section Over at the Bakersfield Museum of Art (BMOA) — which is preparing for its “Dia de Los Muertos” (Day of The Dead) show, opening Sept. 17 — presenting artworks that have a Latin influence is only natural. “We want to offer something for everyone here at the museum — this is a place for everyone in the community to enjoy,” said Beth Pandol, BMOA’s marketing director. “And there is always a cross-section when it comes to the art here and our visitors.”
A true example of “cross-section” will be seen among the 50 skulls artistically decorated by 50 different local artists as part of the “Dia De Los Muertos” exhibit. Each artist — Hispanic and non-Hispanic — was selected by BMOA staff and given a skull as a “blank canvas” on which to create. Some of the skulls for the exhibit are already trickling in — and they’re exceeding all expectations. “They’re great — it’s amazing what these artists can do!” Pandol said. The skulls will be placed in a large, altar-like structure that will be the centerpiece of the exhibit. In January 2006, the museum
brought to Bakersfield the largest Latin art exhibit — 63 pieces in all, valued at more than $1million — ever seen here. The “Legacy of Mexican and Latin American Art Past and Present” exhibit included works by the famous Hispanic painters Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros. The pieces in the show were loaned to the BMOA from the private collection of the family of Richard Zapanta. “We always aim for diverse shows because we are trying to get a variety of people to come to the museum,” said BMOA Curator Emily Falke at the time of the “Legacy” exhibit. “It is really important to have these Continued on page 18 September 2009
MÁS | 17
Latination: A Celebration and Exploration of Latino Life Now through Oct. 1 Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St., 634-9538 Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11 am to 5 p.m. Other days/times for appointments can be arranged.
Dia de Los Muertos Sept. 16 through Nov. 22 Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St., 323-7219 Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Closed Monday and holidays Admission: Members, free; adults, $5; seniors (65+), $4; students, $2. Every third Friday of the month, all admission is FREE.. Every second Sunday of the month, all seniors (65 and up) admission FREE.
This painting, “The Veil” by Gage Opdenbrouw, will be part of the “Dia de Los Muertos” show at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, beginning Sept. 16.
Continued from page 17
shows because in communities like Bakersfield, where there is a high ratio of Hispanic cultures, it is important to offer things that will interest the people in town.” In October 2008, the Todd Madigan Gallery at Cal State Bakersfield presented “Arte de La Gente” (Art of The People) that also featured items from the Zapanta collection. A total of 31 pieces were displayed in yet another local exhibit that showcased Latino art. As part of the “Dia de Los Muertos” show beginning this month at the BMOA, there are also plans to display “Altares de Familias de Bakersfield,” which will feature personal altars to family members who
18 | MÁS September 2009
This “Latination” entry is by Tanya X. Leonzo, a local photographer. The title of Leonzo’s photo is “Orgullo Indígena” and it was taken in a mercado in Antigua, Guatemala.
have died. It’s hoped to have about 20 local families participate in this part of the show. Anyone interested can contact the museum at 323-7219.
Making connections Local art experts also report that art, in general, is about making connections. And with art that has a cultural twist to it, well, that can make for some very powerful connections. “I think art is about the connection it makes … an emotional reaction to a specific piece,” Martin said. “I think with Latin-inspired art, that reaction can be more intense because of the colors and emotion sometimes involved.” Pandol agreed.
“I think people are drawn to the energetic, colorful, vibrant and spiritual aspect of Latin art,” she said. “It is very popular here.” It’s that energy and bursts of color that are also at the heart of local Latino artist’s inspirations. “I think color is in just about every Mexican. We have that design for bright colors,” said Jose Castellanos, a Bakersfield artist, who was born and raised in Michoacan, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States when he was 11. In a previous article published in MÁS, Castellanos said his paintings are strongly influenced by his cultural background and beliefs. Most of Castellanos’ paintings exhibit a strong presence
of bright colors, geometric shapes and bold lines. His works also sometimes include objects typical of Mexican culture. “Latination,” the juried exhibit at Metro Galleries, is something that Martin has hoped to do since opening his gallery in 2006. “I’ve wanted to explore and discover what artists feel about the Latin culture and experience,” he said. “I hope that it will create a better understanding for the viewer of the Latino culture — and I hope for the artists that it is a positive experience of creating a piece of art reflecting this culture. “Hopefully, we will discover an emerging artist or two as well!”
Continued from page 07
space took root. Jose was hoeing a row of beets when he heard over his transistor radio that Franklin Chang-Diaz, a Costa Rican, would be the first Latino in space. Jose was a senior in high school at the time. It was at that moment Jose decided to follow in ChangDiaz’s footsteps. But making it to liftoff was no easy task. Although he held a bachelor’s degree from the University of the Pacific and a master’s from UC Santa Barbara, getting into the astronaut program was no easy task. Jose applied 12 times before being accepted in 2004 into the 19th astronaut class. His is a story of determination, inspiration and above all else — hope. He held tight to the hope that one day he would fly in space. He can now say, “Mission accomplished.”
Buttonwillow • Buttonwillow Delano • Delano Lost Hills • Lost Hills Ridgecrest • Ridgecrest • Rosedale
Oildale • Oildale Shafter • Shafter Taft • Taft Tehachapi • Tehachapi • Wasco
20 | MÁS September 2009
Jose will receive a hero’s welcome when he gets back. Plans are underway for a huge celebration tentatively slated for October in Stockton. His future plans aren’t concrete yet. There’s talk of working for NASA. And there’s the possibility of a run for the U.S. Congress. But for now, Jose is still soaking in the experience of floating among the stars. For the past two weeks, he lived his dream. And just like Jose did long ago planting seeds that would one day reap a bountiful harvest, Jose planted a different type of seed while he aboard Discovery. It was the seed of hope; one that will reap a harvest of endless possibilities for other Latinos for generations to come. And his field was, of course, the endless expanse of space.
Acupuncture Behavioral Health Chiropractic Care Dentistry Diabetes Classes Diagnostic Testing Drug Testing General Medicine Immunizations Internal Medicine Labs & X-rays Nutrition Classes OB - GYN Optometry Pediatrics Pharmacy School, Sport, & DMV Physicals STI Testing Teen Health Plans Telemedicine Urgent Care
INCENTIVES ARE BACK! Up to $2500 on select systems!
Locally Owned & Operated - Financing OAC - www.322cool.com Featuring quality products by
Friendly Customer Service Representatives are awaiting your call
322-COOL
Rebate incentives end soon. Call 322-2665 now!
Proudly serving the local community for over 40 years CA Lic#297547 - Credit Cards Welcome - Estamos Aqui Para Servirle
THIS DEAL IS HOT. VERY HOT. 3 awesome services. 1 extremely hot deal. Extremo Digital Cable TV » Hispanavision Digital Tier – 30 must-have Spanish language channels. » Over 20 FREE On Demand Channels – Get new episodes of English On Demand, plus access to Movies On Demand and more! » Over 23 additional English language channels featuring local favorites and LA stations. » 46 Music Choice channels – choose from Musica Urbana, Pop Latino, Tropicales, Mexican y Romances and more – all digital music, all commercial free.
Home Phone featuring Unlimited Nationwide » Unlimited local and long-distance calling throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. Includes Caller ID, Call Waiting and more! » Get 100 anytime minutes to Mexico with the Mi Mexico Calling plan – It’s included with the Extremo Triple-Pac.
High Speed Internet » Always connected, always fast! You’ll get a far better online experience than DSL or Dial-up. » FREE broadband features like multiple email accounts, video mail and anti-virus software!
Bright House Network’s
Extremo Triple-Pac
per month for 12 months!
Plus FREE Professional Installation and a 30-day money-back guarantee
HURRY, BEFORE THIS DEAL GETS COLD! CALL 1-888-772-8562 Limited-time offer. Not all services available in all areas. After promotional period, retail rates apply. Other restrictions may apply. Call Bright House Networks for complete offer details.
THE MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM
HONORANDO A
MARÍA CELESTE ARRARÁS
DOMINGO, 4 DE OCTUBRE DE 2009 10am A 6pm Ven al Monterey Bay Aquarium para gozar de un día educativo lleno de diversión y entretenimiento. Aprende más sobre la conservación de los océanos y conoce a María Celeste, presentadora del show “Al Rojo Vivo.” Celebra con nosotros honrando sus esfuerzos para conservar nuestros océanos, durante la Ceremonia de Premiación “Héroe del Medio Ambiente” a las 2pm.
AYUDANOS A FESTEJAR: NIÑOS DE HASTA 12 AÑOS ENTRAN GRATIS • Entretenimiento en vivo incluyendo: - Arpista Jalisciense William Faulkner - Martín Espino y sus Sonidos de México Antiguo - y bailes Aztecas de Yaocuauhtil • Shows de Alimentación bilingües • Taller de Arte, juegos y premios para toda la familia
Llama al 1-800-555-3656 o visita www.montereybayaquarium.org/espanol para más información.
DEBORAH RAMIREZ
“Ay Mujer” is written by Deborah Ramirez, a proud Chicana de Bakersfield.
AY MUJER
What’s your ‘es-tor-e-ahs?’ y Mujer, just when you’re convinced that your life is a telenovela coming to the seasonending conclusion, your novela lingers and you start to wonder if your life is a Stephen King novel being played out on reality TV. Everyone, has their “es-tor-eahs,” as my Welita would say, but some stories can linger long beyond the series contract. My Welita regularly viewed telenovelas, both in español y inglés. She’d scheduled her day so she could take her break a las dos to watch “General Hospital,” then a las siete to watch the latest rendition of a telenovela on Spanish television. Most of us grow up not believing that we’d have such crazy es-tor-e-ahs, like the ones on TV, but then what seemed a normal life evolves into something inexpli-
A
cable. Ay Mujer, you know what I’m talkin’ ‘bout … we’ve all been there. The inexplicable can leave us feeling like we want to run as fast as we can from la problema, pero we can’t and so we cope to the best of our ability and are told that stress, worry and anxiety are the greatest factors contributing to death and poor health. Yet, in parts of our world, there are “Blue Zones,” where a higher percentage of centarians exist (people who’ve reached 100 years) and, on average, where people live longer, healthier and happier lives. So, what are their es-tor-e-ahs
and why are they living longer and healthier lives? Researchers have found that Blue Zoners are people who have a sense of meaning, live a purposeful life with a strong social support network, belong to a community with shared values, exercise as part of their daily activity, avoid meat and processed foods, drink alcohol, particularly red wine, in moderation, put family first, and demonstrate gratitude. When you break this down to simple words, it comes down to — eat whole foods, drink moderately, get off your butt, be thankful and eliminate the drama. In our fast-paced, competitive, low self-esteem, gotta know everything right now and text someone immediately about it culture, ay, ‘tan too boring, verdad? Well, too boring for most; I kinda like boring. It
beats living a Stephen King novel because I’d much rather stop my day at 2 p.m., turn on General Hospital and be satisfied that my life is absolutely complete just watching it on TV than being a full-fledged participant in the drama and horror. So, be a Blue Zoner from outside the Blue Zones. Take in the sun, eat/drink well, have gratitude, and be merry — life is so much better not lived on reality TV. And while I enjoy a Stephen King novel every now and then, he does scare me and that’s as far as I want it to go, just scared reading his novel late at night, knowing my husband is lying next to me and my dog’s on night patrol. ¡Salud, Mujer! Here’s to living a purposeful life filled with meaning, plenty of vino y familia y mujeres to support and cheer you on.
September 2009
MÁS | 23
The
Network Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
www.kchcc.org
September 2009
Golden West Casino: Bakersfield’s place to play! Contributed by the KCHCC
he Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize an active and supportive member in this month’s newsletter — the Golden West Casino (GWC). For several years, Randy Watkins, casino manager; and Fran Trevino, public relations manager, have generously arranged the venue for the KCHCC spring social fundraiser. The GWC has sponsored our annual Installation and Business Awards Banquet, Latino Food Festival and Menudo Cook-off, among other chamber events. GWC operates in the Bakersfield landmark, formerly Maison Jaussaud’s Restaurant, which has been host to such famous performers as The Marx Brothers, Johnny Carson, and the Three Stooges. GWC opened in November 1995 with 15 approved tables and approximately 50 employees. Today, the Golden West Casino features 30 approved tables for non-stop gaming 24-hours a day, seven days a week, with over 200 employees. GWC has been on the forefront for card room operation for the State of California. To our knowledge, they were the first card room to initiate the poker party concept. Through poker and blackjack parties, they have provided exciting entertainment and gaming instruction to thousands of guests from our community. GWC is committed to a level of outstanding customer service that provides their guests the ultimate entertainment experience. GWC is a card room fully licensed and approved by the California Department of Justice and the Kern County Sheriff’s Department providing a wide choice of casino card games and entertainment venues to the local community and surrounding metropolitan area. GWC offers a full menu, 24/7. Regardless, if you are craving breakfast, lunch or dinner. Their menu includes a combination of American, Italian, and Mexican entrees. GWC offers poker or blackjack parties for any occasion. Parties include: buffet dinner, gaming instructions, tournament, and prizes. All persons must be 21 and older to attend. To book a party, contact Jill at 324-6959.
T
24 | MÁS September 2009
SAVE THE DATE SEPT. 9 Business Mixer At press time, the mixer’s location had not been confirmed. But a new one will be announced soon. For now, it’s TBD. Stay tuned ...
OCT. 14 Business Mixer Hosted by Wells Fargo Bank (Downtown) 1300 22nd St. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, call 861-9971. COURTESY PHOTO
Randy Watkins, Casino Manager and GWC Staff pose during Medieval Mondays. Golden West Casino’s Blackjack Lounge offers live entertainment for your enjoyment every Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Only one stop to make for total entertainment!
Promotions: • Monday Night Football — Cash pots are paid for every score in the game. • Join GWC Poker League —Contact Jill at 661-3246936. • Double Jackpots — Mondays and Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. • Blackjack Free Bonus Hands — Pays you cash on the spot as of Aug. 26. • Medieval Mondays — Now until Sept. 28, earn knight status from your play and get extra chips by knocking out knights from other realms! Go into the GWC, “joust” with their kings and join the fun! For more information, you can contact 324-6936 or visit their Web site at: www.goldenwestcasino.net Golden West Casino 1001 S. Union Ave. Bakersfield, Calif. 93307
OCT. 23 KCHCC Golf Tournament Sundale Country Club 12:00 p.m. (Noon) For information, call 633-5495
NOV. 11 Business Mixer Hosted by Double Tree Hotel 3100 Camino Del Rio Court 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, call 323-0331.
DEC. 9 Business Mixer Hosted by Red Lion Hotel 2400 Camino Del Rio Court 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, call 327-0681.
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Thank you to our membership renewals and welcome to our newest members. We appreciate your support. RENEWALS Thank you for renewing your membership! • ESG Republic • General Tree Service • Gotta Go Bail Bonds • Hall Commercial Vehicle Services, Inc. • Little Caesar’s Pizza • Project View, Inc. • Kern County Supervisor Michael J. Rubio, 5th District
NEW MEMBERS All Sound Music John “J.C.” Cota (661) 549-7002 Web site: www.allsoundmusic.com All Sound Music (ASM) an Elite Mobile DJ/MC service was founded 10 years ago by John “J.C.” Cota, owner and lead DJ & MC. John has 20 years experience, carrying on a legacy of three generations that began with his father, John Cota Sr. and now assisting J.C. is his son John Anthony Cota. ASM’s services include family and corporate events but the company’s main focus is weddings. ASM provides a fully coordinated event with a customized music program, along with a full proof, personal itinerary to maximize time at every event. Genres from, ASM’s 10,000 song music library include: 1950s-1960s, Oldies but Goodies, Motown, hits from 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s, and up to current Pop & Hip Hop, Classic Rock, Country and Latin Music. American National Insurance Company Alma Carraznza 900 Mohawk St., Suite 230 Bakersfield, CA 93313 (661) 322-9638 American National Insurance has been around since 1905.
American National Insurance Company has grown to be one of the strongest companies that exist. Because they are financially sound, American National Insurance Company are able to offer significant discounts and other programs such as auto, home and annuities as well as commercial insurance. California Total Insurance Services Julio A. Najera 2509 Mt. Vernon Ave., Suite 108 Bakersfield, CA 93306 (661) 872-5933 Web site: www.caltotalinsurance.com California Total Insurance Services, is a local insurance agency in Bakersfield and Arvin, continuously working to provide the best individual coverage for Kern County. They take pride in their business and strive to be relationship specialists, providing you with the total insurance solution for all your needs. Edward Jones Investments Jessica White 6649 Ming Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93309 (661) 831-0130 Web site: www.edwardjones.com For more than 50 years, Edward Jones has brought Wall Street to Main Street in communities across the country. As a full financial services firm, Edward Jones focuses on the individual investor and small business owner. You can visit their office located on Ming and Ashe, and let Edward Jones Investments help you with your investing and financial planning.
Pure Energy System 217 Mt. Vernon Ave. # 10 Bakersfield, CA 93306 (661) 716-7500 Web site: www.GoPureEnergy.com Pure Energy System’s mission is to use their resources to help educate their customers so they can make cost effective & environmentally sound decisions on the application of alternative energy source.
Vital Signs of Bakersfield Keith Pfeffer 6703 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93308 (661) 325-1987 Vital Signs of Bakersfield was founded in 1987. They are a sign manufacturer, providing anything from banners to electrical signs. Vital Signs specializes in personalized service. “A Good Sign is Vital to your Business!”
Zumba Fitness with Angela & Laila Angela Medina & Laila Park (661) 703-0791 or (541) 324-0308 Zumba Fitness was founded in 1996 by Beto Perez. Angela and Laila are certified Zumba Instructors who teach Zumba Fitness, which is a combination of Latin rhythms. They offer private classes, group instruction, and corporate fitness as well as Zumba parties!
Letter from the chairman Dear Members and Friends, ’d like to thank Business Development Manager Robert Aslanian, Member Services Manager Donna Hollingsworth and the entire staff at AltaOne Federal Credit Union for hosting our August mixer as they really stepped up and did a fabulous job, well done! I would like to invite you to join us on Sept. 9 for our next mixer. However, the location is TBD. We’ll spread the word soon. Coming in October, we will be bringing back the KCHCC Golf Tournament. We have heard from many of you that this event is missed and NEEDS to come back, so it is with great pride that I advise you all that ... IT IS BACK! Be on the lookout for more tournament information coming your way. Our Membership Directory will soon be published and distributed inside MÁS. Feel free to contact our office any time to update your membership information. If you have thought about joining but haven’t, now is the perfect time! Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of our 2009 Membership Directory. Until next month, stay cool, enjoy football season and watch out for soccer balls ... there is usually a child or two following it!
I
Best Regards, Joe Jimenez Chairman CHAIN | COHN | STILES September 2009
MÁS | 25
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
It’s the One
Mixer event at AltaOne Federal Credit Union cashes in on networking & fun by all
ALTA ONE For information on AltaOne, go to: www.AltaOne.org or visit one of their Bakersfield branches: Ming Member Service Center 6501 Ming Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93309 397-2555 Riverwalk Member Service Center 11211 River Run Blvd. Bakersfield, CA 93311 664-2515 Lobby Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9:00 - 5:00 Fri., 9:00 - 6:00 Sat., 9:00 - 2:00 Drive-thru hours: PHOTO BY JOE SERRANO
From left: Joe Jimenez, KCHCC Chair; Donna Hollingsworth, Member Services Manager; Robert Aslanian, Business Development Manager; and Jay Tamsi, KCHCC Vice-Chair pose for a photo. Contributed by KCHCC
ltaOne Federal Credit Union hosted the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce August Business Mixer at their Member Services Center located at 6501 Ming Ave. More than 100 chamber members and guests enjoyed a delicious array of appetizers and refreshments catered by Café Med, while All Sound Music provided music. The business mixer was a huge success, complete with great networking and a warm welcome by Donna Hollingsworth, member services manager for the Ming and Riverwalk branches; Robert Aslanian, business development manager; and AltaOne Federal Credit Union staff members. 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 two in Bakersfield, with the others in Tehachapi, California City, Boron, Kernville, Lake Isabella, Ridgecrest, Bishop, Lone Pine and Mammoth.
A
26 | MÁS September 2009
PHOTO BY JOE SERRANO
KCHCC members and guests networking during the business mixer. AltaOne Federal Credit Union can assist you and your business with business loans, secured and unsecured lines of credit, business term loans, SBA loans, equipment loans and construction loans, as well as real estate purchases or refinances for income properties — both residential and commercial.
Mon.-Thurs., 8:30-5:30 Fri., 8:30-6:30 Sat., 8:30-2:30
AltaOne provides business deposit accounts with free and interest earning, 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, along with 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,” according to AltaOne’s vision statement. The original sense of neighborly responsibility 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 needs. AltaOne’s strength and professionalism over the last 60 years has led to growth that has reached an asset size of greater than $500 million and more than 46,000 members!
KERN COUNTY HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
KCHCC BOARD
Way to go, Joe! Local PI honored by peers for excellence
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. 2009 Executive Board CHAIRMAN Joe Jimenez VICE-CHAIR Jay Tamsi
Contributed by KCHCC
ongratulations to small business owner and Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce board member, Joe Serrano, who was chosen by his peers as the Private Investigator of the Year. The award was presented by the California Association of Licensed Investigators during its annual conference in Burlingame, Calif. Serrano is the owner of Serrano’s Investigative Services and works as a bail agent for Gotta
C
Go Bailbonds in Bakersfield. The award honors those who have excelled in their profession and demonstrated exceptional service to the public, among other things. Serrano is often seen making new friends, influencing people to get involved in the community, taking photos at chamber events and community activities. Last year, he was selected as KCHCC “Man of the Year.” Serrano continues to improve the world around us, through his work and volunteerism in the community.
Joe Serrano
TREASURER Jesse Bonales SECRETARY Jan Bans CHAIR-ELECT Ramona Herrera PAST-CHAIR Fernando Aguirre 2009 Board of Directors Adam Alvidrez Adriana Lopez Chris Bernal David Alanis Donna Hermann Fran Trevino Hilary Baird Joe Serrano Michael Urioste Ruben Gonzales For more information, visit: www.kchcc.org or call the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce office at 633-5495.
Take time to examine your life insurance By Ramona Herrera State Farm® Agent Special to MÁS
f you were no longer there to provide for them, would your family be able to keep their home? Could your children attend college? If you answered “no” to either of these questions, it may be time to look at your life insurance coverage. September has been designated Life Insurance Awareness Month by the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE). The Foundation is encouraging people to examine their life insurance policies to determine if they are adequately protected. While your needs may vary, the 2004 Human Life Value study conducted by LIFE found that the average life value among U.S citizens was $803,788. A male’s value — meaning the economic
I
value to others — was nearly $1 million, while a female’s value was over $660,000. While the life insurance need is not as high as those values, the average life insurance policy for males in the study was closer to $300,000, while women had $165,245. Life insurance can be the foundation of a sound financial plan, especially given the continuing need after the death of a breadwinner. Think of it as a safety net, should a wage earner die unexpectedly. In addition to that, permanent life insurance may accumulate a cash value that can be accessed while you are still living. While any loans from a policy will accrue interest and diminish the cash value and any subsequent death benefit, the proceeds could be used for any number of reasons. Life insurance can be one of the most important purchases you make. Take some time during Life Insurance Awareness Month to examine your life insurance needs. September 2009
MÁS | 27
Continued from page 08
speaking English,” Lizardi Frazier said. However, Lizardi Frazier went on to get a second major in Spanish from Arizona State University. Lizardi Frazier said it was her family’s support and success that propelled her to strive for higher education. “My heritage has always made me proud,” she said. “I was proud of the first generation engineers and teachers in my family. Their appreciation of an education, their strong work ethic and their incredible Catholic faith were inspirations to me.” And while she was motivated to obtain her college degree, she was not always geared toward the education field. It wasn’t until Lizardi Frazier did community service at a school during college that she discovered her true calling. Lizardi Frazier was teaching at a school for mentally disabled children and was impressed by how much they understood. “I thought to myself, look how much they are learning. Imagine what they could learn if I actually knew what I was doing,” she said. “I went back to Arizona State University and changed my major.” Since that day, Lizardi Frazier’s career has spanned more than 30 years as a classroom teacher, school principal, assistant superintendent and school district superintendent. She joined the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office in 1996, and prior to her appointment served as associate superintendent. Lizardi Frazier is a native of Arizona and obtained her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University, her master’s from California State University, Bakersfield and her doctorate from the University of the Pacific. Lizardi Frazier is also highly involved in the community with such groups as the Boys and Girls Club of Bakersfield and the Kern Economic Development Corporation. Kern County Board of Education board members were also impressed with her past work and credentials. “First of all, she is extraordinarily qualified — not only does she have curriculum experi-
28 | MÁS September 2009
PHOTO BY FELIX ADAMO
Christine Frazier replaced Larry Reider as the Kern County Superintendent of Schools at the end of June. ence, but also the financial experience,” said Kern County Board of Education board member Michael Butcher. “She has the experience of leading and working with people. Secondly, with the economy the way it is, it was not a good time to call for an election, nor was it time to look for someone outside who had no idea what was going on in the county office.” CSUB professor Thomas Martinez said he was so impressed with Lizardi Frazier that he asked her to be the keynote speaker at this year’s CSUB Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Fund’s 26th annual Scholarship Awards Dinner Sept. 26. “She is eloquent, sincere and speaks with passion about her commitment to the education of all children in our community,” Martinez said. Menendez believes that Lizardi Frazier is the best per-
son for the job and has a lot to bring to the county. “I think her appointment adds a positive dimension to the services provided by KCSOS,” Menendez said. “We have some serious and complex issues facing education today. Given the Latino population in Kern County, cultural competency should play big into how successful we’ll be in addressing many of these issues.” Latino students in grades K12 made up 58.2 percent of the county’s enrollment in the 20082009 school year, which is 101,309 students each with their own diverse backgrounds and experiences. When asked how she would address generational issues affecting Latinos, Lizardi Frazier said her methods are the same for all students. “My family represents both first-generation English speakers and second-generation Eng-
lish only speakers and my goal for both remains the sameexcellence,” she said. “My expectation is one of high academic achievement for all our students.Why would my expectation be different?” Lizardi Frazier’s mission is to modify the journey students currently go through in an attempt to increase the number of students reached. To do so, Lizardi Frazier said that two items have to be looked at: the current financial situation and the differences that exist in the students of today. “The saying used to be doing more with less, but unfortunately now it has become doing less with less,” Lizardi Frazier said. Defining what is important is the first step in Lizardi Frazier’s mission. “We are in a different situation now. It’s not a matter of a JV team versus an art program, it’s a JV team versus an algebra teacher,” Lizardi Frazier said. “When it comes down to that choice, I am going to teach the students algebra.” Lizardi Frazier said that it breaks her heart that some valued programs will have to be cut but unfortunately there is no other way around it. “When I look at the kids we have reached through the outreach programs we have and then think that some of them will have to be cut, it gives me the greatest anxiety,” she said. Lizardi Frazier said program cuts are hard choices that must be made in environments where parents and teachers are upset. She also feels that it is vital to include parent and community involvement to ensure student success. “The expectation that schools will do it alone is unrealistic. For optimal results, people need to be involved in their schools,” she said. A balance must be struck as schools move through this less than ideal financial situation as well as adapting teaching methods to reach out to a new generation of students. “There are standards we need to impart such as trust, honesty and a good work ethic,” she said. “There has to be a blending of old and new. We need to take the best of both.”
D
C
Prices starting at
139,900
$$
Up to
$
7,500 of inc entives
(*on sele ct models )
500
$
Deposit For a limited time
Cell 201-9434 • 661-335-7600 • www.MaryCruzRealty.com
Union Ave. Hwy. 99
Panama Rd.
4500 California Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hosking Rd.
Down Payment Assistance
ENTERTAINMENT
Get your
Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Kern County
Grito on! Delano Cinco de Mayo Fiestas, Inc. Mexican Independence Day Carnival Celebration Friday-Sunday, Sept. 11-13 • Delano Memorial Park, 110 Lexington St., Delano • Carnival rides, food and entertainment ($20 full day wrist band) or ($18 pre-sale) • Independence day “Grito” contest. • Spanish concert on Sunday entertainment TBA.
The Spanish Radio Group’s 17th annual “Viva Mexico” Mexican Independence Day Festival • 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday Sept. 13 • Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S P St. • Free admission. • Food and beverage booths. • Live music throughout the day, featuring bands and artists: Creadorez Del Pasito Duranguense, Los Terribles Del Norte, La Luz Roja De San Marcos, Los Nuevo Rebeldes, Dinastía Norteña, Banda Tierra Del Sol, Las Estrellas Del Norte, Banda Potrerillos, El Compa LG.
30 | MÁS September 2009
By Matt Munoz MÁS Staff — Source: Some information taken from Wikipedia.org.
his Sept. 16, marks the 199th anniversary of Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule. According to history books and storytellers, clashes can be traced back to the Spanish conquests over the Aztec empire. Bad blood between the two came to boiling point after years of conflict in Mexico, and an uprising was put into action. The story of Roman Catholic priest, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, and the battle cry “Grito de Dolores” (“Cry of/from Dolores”), uttered on Sept. 16, 1810, can be seen in many well known works of Latino art. In most paintings Costilla is portrayed as an intense, imposing figure standing up against the opposing Spanish colonial army, armed with a banner of La Virgen de Guadalupe in hand. White haired, with his black coat flowing in the wind, it is Costilla’s spirit contained in those images that help Mexicans understand the importance of events in the years until independencia was won. Mexican revolutionary army commander José María Morelos and others staged their bloody revolt for 11 years until victory. Often confused with Cinco de Mayo, another signature battle that occurred 41 years later, the Mexican War of Independence is the country’s biggest national holiday. Similar to Americans celebrating the
T
4th of July, Mexicans do the same in memory of those who fought bravely against oppression for their countrymen and women every Sept. 16. Kern County hosts some of the biggest annual Dia de Indepencia celebrations around. See our list at the left to help you plan this year’s celebration. ¡Viva Mexico!
3[^Z]g[S\b "ENJO $MFSJDBM 6Yb^c 8aZg^XVa $PNQVUFST *5 8dbejiZgh $ >I %SJWFST 9g^kZgh
1ZSO\W\U
B`SS AS`dWQSa
! -ASTERS 4OUCH %XP !TTENTION TO DETAIL ,IC INSURED
*IM S 4REE 3ERVICE 3TUMP REMOVAL PALMS
MULBERRIES FREE EST .ON ,IC
)FBMUI $BSF %FOUBM =ZVai] 8VgZ 9ZciVa )PTQJUBMJUZ =dhe^iVa^in 4BMFT HVaZh BOE NPSF VcY bdgZ###
1]\ac[S` 5]]Ra !DVERTISE HERE FOR QUICK RESULTS
<]bWQSa 7jg^Va CZZYh Adhi $ ;djcY EZghdcVah I^X`Zih VcY bdgZ###
4O`[ O\R @O\QV
1][^cbS` -OBILE 4ECH 3UPPORT ! AND -#3% #ERTIFIED (OUSE CALLS
4S\QW\U 34%6% -/22)3/. #/.342 .EW 7OOD &ENCING 'ATES 2%0!)23 ,IC 72/5'(4 )2/. &ENCE
'ATES "RICK "LOCK WALLS ,IC
6]caSV]ZR 6O\Rg^S`a]\
6jXi^dch ;Vgb :fj^ebZci ;ZZY EVhijgZ =dghZh
(!.$9 2!.$9 (ANDY MAN &ULL 3VCS YRS EXP NON LIC
VcY bdgZ###
;^cVcX^Va HZgk^XZh >ckZhibZcih BdcZn id AdVc VcY bdgZ###
AbcTT 6ci^fjZh VcY 6gi 6eea^VcXZh 8dbejiZgh Hd[ilVgZ ;^gZlddY ;jgc^ijgZ AVlc <VgYZc Eddah! HeVh Hjeea^Zh Hedgi^c\ <ddYh VcY bdgZ###
4W`Se]]R
:O\RaQO^W\U A^`W\YZS`a 1UALITY 3PRINKLER 2EPAIR &AST !FFORDABLE
,IC *AVIS ,ANDSCAPE TIMERS 3PRINKLERS VALVES NON LIC OR
;]dW\U 6OcZW\U -OVERS^2EASONABLE RATES #AL 4 05# CALL
>Zc[PW\U AS`dWQSa %D 4HE 0LUMBER 3RVC 2EPAIR YRS ,IC -# 6ISA $IS
Di]Zg 6gZVh 0UBLIC .OTICE 9ARD 3ALES OR 'ARAGE 3ALES ARE PERMITTED TWICE A YEAR PER ADDRESS AND EACH SALE IS LIMITED TO TWO CONSECUTIVE DAYS /NE ON SITE AND ONE OFF SITE YARD SALE OR GARAGE SALE SIGN PER RESIDENCE ARE PERMITTED 4HE "AKERSlELD -UNICIPAL #ODE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITS ANYONE FROM PLACING THE OFF SITE SIGN WITHIN A CITY OR PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY AND SHALL NOT BE AFlXED TO ANY UTILITY POLE STREET SIGN FENCE TRAFlC CONTROL BOXES ETC 6IOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO lNES
GddÒc\ 5cbbS`a
/W` 1]\R 6SObW\U
350%2)/2 2//&).' 3PECIALIZING IN TILE COMP ROOF CERTS "EST PRICES IN TOWN #ALL FOR FREE EST LIC
2AYS -OBILE SAME DAY SERVICE REPAIR INCREASE 2//& 2%0!)23 "EST YOUR SYSTEM S EFFICIENCY 0RICES 3ERVICE YRS NON LIC 2OOFING 2EPAIRS 7INTERIZE YOUR HOME .ON LIC
-/6%3 9/5 ). &2%% 2ENT 'AS 'IFT ,OFT BDRMS 3TUDIO 0ACIFIC 4ERRACE 1 3T 3ECT OK .O $EPOSIT 2EQUIRED /N 3PACIOUS "DRM AT "DRM AT -AS 'IVES 9OUR -ORE
3!6%
,G BDRM 4WNHMS U !TTACHED 'ARAGES U 7 $ (KUPS U 0RIVAVE "ACK 9ARD U 0RIVATE %NTERANCE U 3PARKLING 0OOL 3PA
$%0
-OVES 9OU )N #!,,
/&&
-/.4(3 2%.4 &2%% #!",% 46 "DRMS FROM "DRMS FROM
#ASA 2EAL !PT 3O 2EAL 2D
>Sba O\R /\W[OZa 8Vih 9d\h EZi Hjeea^Zh VcY bdgZ###
@SOZ 3abObS @S\bOZa AOZSa $PNNFSDJBM 6eVgibZcih $POEPT 5PXOIPNFT 8dcYdh $ Idlc]dbZh /FX )PNFT Bjai^"eaZmZh 3F 4BMF )PNFT =djhZh .BOVGBDUVSFE 7jh^cZhh EgdeZgin 7BDBUJPO KVXVi^dc BOE NPSF VcY bdgZ###
/^O`b[S\ba Jc[jgc^h]ZY
(AVE A NEED AND LITTLE CASH #HECK THE -AS #LASSIlEDS 9OU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU MAY lND
! !LMOND /AK $29 (ARD SOFT BUNDLES TOO &2%% DELIVERY -# 6)3! 3AVE ! #ORP
,ET COMFORT AIR PUT THE COMFORT BACK IN YOUR HOME
7V`ZghÒZaY VcY bdgZ###
2!9 3 -AINT 0LUMB ING #ARPENTRY RENTALS
KITCHEN BATH REMODELS
,IC
0caW\Saa =^^a
GO`R AOZSa
(-/6% ). 30%#)!,( %XCEPTIONAL 1UALITY 37 3TUDIO ,OFTS
"DRMS #ALL
#!,, &/2 -/6% ). 30%#)!,3 &EATURING "DRM !PTS 0OOLS
3PA 4ENNIS #OURTS
#LUBHOUSE 'YM .O ,AURELGLEN
,ACEY 6ILLA
&REE #ABLE 46
BDRM W YARD CARPORT
POOL STORAGE LNDRY FACILITY .O 0ETS ,ACEY 3T
#LOSED 3UNDAYS
-/6%3 9/5 ). #!-%,,)! '!2$%.3 3PACIOUS "DRMS U %NERGY %FFICIENT !PPLI U 3PACIOUS #LOSETS U 2EC #ENTER WITH $AILY !CTIVITIES #ALL .OW /2 6ISIT US AT #HEATHAM !VE %8%#54)6% 02/0%249 -'-4 "DRMS 3ECT OK EXECUTIVEMGT COM (UGE X WITH HKUPS
#ALIF NEAR -IMI S #ALL FOR 3PECIAL
&OOTHILL 6ISTA !PTS "D "A MO "D "A MO 0LEASE CALL
3%.)/23
-OVES 9OU )N #!-%,,)! 4%22!#% 3ENIOR #OMMUNITY 3PACIOUS BDRMS 3TARTING !T ,NDRY 2OOMS 3OCIAL 3ERVICES
#ALL .OW /2 VISIT US AT #HEATHAM !VE
MONTHS RENT
TOWN %YE 3T #ALL - &
,IGHTED TENNIS COURTS
VOLLEYBALL BAKSETBALL COURTS ,RG PLAYGROUND AREA /LYMPIC SIZE POOL
SPA REC ROOM
MO NO DEPOSIT
NICE BEDROOM BATH #ALL 0ATRICK
BDRMS FROM BDRMS FROM 0ARKWOOD !PTS #ALL 4ODAY 7IBLE
( &2%% 2%.4 ( OFF ST -O BDRM
RANGE FRIG ! # CARPORTS -O !-#!0 -GR
-/6% ). 30%#)!,
-/6% 9/5 ). &2%% 2%.4 OAC & 3T BD BA
W D HUPS
/&& ST -ONTH &REE CREDIT CHK TO QUAL ,NDRY RM COV D PARKING
0//, -ANOR 'ARDENS !PTS -T 6ERNON !VE 34 #,!)2 02/0%24)%3 /&& 34 -/ 2%.4 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ #OLUMBUS 3T .% BD ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 4AYLOR 3T 37 BD ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 37 BDRM (UNTER !VE 3TCLAIRHOUSING COM 2EAD -AS %VERY &RIDAY
/FF ST -O 2ENT
$EP -OVE IN SPCL PATIOS POOL .O SECT VISIT APARTMENTS USAOL US 1 3T #ALL TWNHSE CLEAN QUIET NO PETS /ILDALE
TO 3TUDIOS BDRM TWNHSE 0//, LAUNDRY FACILITY
.% /RANGE $R #ALL 30%#)!, /!# #HRISTMAS 4REE !# 0//, NO PETS
&ROM
/&&
ND RD -ONTHS 2ENT ( &REE #ABLE 46 ( ( "DRM W PATIO ( 0OOLS SPA ( 3MALL 0ETS O K 0!2+ 6),,! !043 7HITE ,ANE
3TATE 2OAD ! "DRM "A $ "DRM "A 4AKE . TO /LIVE $R EXIT 'O STRAIGHT TO STOP SIGN TURN ,
$EP
0EERLESS !VE 7 $ HKUPS
-OVE IN 3PECIAL .% SF X GAR FP
HKUPS MO TO MO #ABLE PAID
$EP BD BATH SINGLE STORY # 7ILSON !VE /ILDALE OR
STCLAIRHOUSING COM
"EST -OVE )N 3PECIAL /&& ST -/.4( ON "DRM OAC 4EHACHAPI
-/6%3 9/5 ). ST -ONTH &REE OAC #ALIFORNIA !VENUE &2%% #!",%
5P ./ $%0/3)4 3OUTH ( 3T #ALL .ORA
37 ,ABOR OUGH ! ,RG CAR W ONR FP STORY
2EAD -AS %VERY &RIDAY
$EP 1UIET 'ATED 'REENBRIER LOTS MORE
(6),,! $ /2 3TAY #OOL #LOSE TO 0OOL BDRM FIREPLACE LARGE PRIVATE PATIO CARPORT
LAUNDRY FACILITIES 2EAL 2D #LOSED 3UNDAY 4EAL 3T DPLX 4EAL !# NO PETS
'!2!'%
WITH (OOK 5PS /&& -/3 2%.4 "DRMS 0OOL 2EAL 2OAD #LOSED 3UNDAY
-O 2IO "RAVO
GATED SQ FT
CAR LG PATIO
37 (AHN HKUPS
CAR ATTACHED GAR POOL
NO PETS SMOKE
;cZbW >ZSfSa 3HASTA #HESTER ,N <RX NQRZ \RX ZDQW 0DV
DEP ,ANSING $R BD BA CAR GAR LIV DEP 0ANAMA ,ANE # (UGE ING ROOMS 4OWNHOUSE BDRM % " BATH CAR GAR A C D W % " (KUPS GARAGE 3ECT /+ OR PM -ON &RI
/FF ND RD BED APT $OWN
&2%% #ABLE 46
%" BDRM PATIO
HKUPS OR HABLO ESPANOL
-O
ST -/.4( 2%.4 &2%% V 'REAT 37 ,OCATION V .EAR 'OOD 3CHOOLS V 7ALK TO 3HOPPING V "D "A "D "A V #AR 'ARAGE V #LEAN 3AFE .EIGBRHD V &RIENDLY /NSITE -GR
6]caSa C\Tc`\WaVSR DEP %LYSIUM BEDRM BATH
(KUPS GARAGE NEW CAR PET PAINT 3ECT /+ <RX NQRZ \RX ZDQW 0DV $EP 37
BONUS RM
GARB GDNR WATER PAID
7ESTERN $R
37 TRIPLEX LIV RM W FRPLC DIN RM NEW CRPT TILE LNDRY HKUPS
FNCD YD GAR 7HITE ,N "
DEP A C
GARDNER INCL #HINA 'RADE AREA 3TAR
7%%+3 &2%% 37 HKUPS
GAR NEXT TO SHOPPING
NO 3EC #ASTLE FORD 3T
+ $EP 37 CAR GRDNR INCL 2OCKCASTLE
$EP "EAUTIFUL
37 FRPLC WET BAR
1UAILRIDGE 37 GDNR INCL CAR ATTACH OPNR LAUNDRY 3HARP -AS 'IVES 9OUR -ORE
$EP ALMOST NEW CAR GAR
SINGLE LEVEL HKUPS
IN 2IVER,AKES 7HITESQUALL ,ANE
AVAIL NOW $EP ALMOST NEW CAR GAR
SINGLE LEVEL HKUPS
ACROSS FROM ,IBERTY 0ARK
2EDDICK ,N
AVAIL NOW ,G "DRM !PT POOL FRPLC GARAGE
.)#% 3TOCKDALE (WY !SHE $EP &RPLC CAR GAR HUPS 0ATIO 7HITE 2OCK 6ISIT APART MENTS USAOL US WHITEROCK #ALL
$EP 37
NEAR ALL SCHOOLS 3ECTION OK CALL $EP 3ILVER #REEK 3IERRA #AVES
GDRNR INCL $EP "$ "! #AMINO -AJORCA .EAR 3TOCKDALE (IGH 4URN 3O ON "UENA 6ISTA 7HITE ,ANE , ON 3OLTI ERRA , ON 6IA #AMPANA /PEN $AILY .O 3ECT $EP
"$ "! #AMPUS 0ARK 4ILYARD #T $EP !DORABLE /LEANDER AREA CAR GAR GDNR INCL
September 2009
MÁS | 31
+ Comprehensive Cardiac Diabetes Screening + Complete Physicals; DMV, Immigrations + Weight Reduction + Skin Rejuvenation + Physiotherapy + Industrial & Auto Injuries + Hypertension & Cholesterol Management
Arun Softa, M.D. Internal Medicine
+ Dermatology/ Skin Care + Back Pain Evaluation + Neck Pain + Headache + Rehabilitation + Pain Management + Echocardiogram + Physiotherapy Suite + Lab, X-rays & Chiropractor Services Available On Site + Multi-Lingual Staff
Ambika Softa, M.D. Suzan Sterner, D.C. Amy Becerra, P.A.-C Internal Medicine
Chiropractor
Family Practice
Se Habla Espa単ol
PrimeCare Physicians Your Complete Healthcare and Wellness Team
661-716-2600 2005 17th Street, Bakersfield, 93301
Saturday Appts. Available www.doctorsofta.com