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Far From Home for the Holidays

Far From Home for the Holidays

For many Bakersfield families, though everything else may remain intact, one vital piece will be missing from the Christmas festivities this year: A loved one currently serving overseas in the military.

Some are comforted by the encouraging and reassuring words of family members who’ve also served overseas.

Others continually remind themselves that their husband, son, wife or daughter know what they are doing. And yet others fill their days with activities, so as to not allow too much time to dwell on the fact that a loved one is gone.

Here are three examples of how military families are dealing with the pain – and pride – of being separated from their loved ones during the holidays:

The Felix Family While her husband Richard is off fighting in Iraq, Lupe Felix finds solace in the fact that he has nearly 24 years of experience in the military and because of this, he knows what he is doing.

“I just know that if something were to happen, somebody would contact us right away. I try to not worry about that part,” she said. “I just have faith that he knows what he’s doing.” Richard, 42, an E6-1st class in the Navy, is currently serving his second tour in Iraq as part of an engineering and construction battalion. He also served in the Gulf War.

He enlisted in the Army right after high school and switched to the Navy 14 years ago. As his wife explains it, he joined because he wasn’t sure what else he wanted to do. But once he got in, he liked the structure, he liked the opportunities it provided and he liked the chance to travel and live virtually anywhere.

He married Lupe, 41, a program tech at Worker’s Compensation, eight years ago.

Together they have one son, 7-year-old R.J. (short for Richard Felix, Jr. Or simply Junior), a second-grader at Thorner Elementary School.

One major difference between her husband’s last stint in Iraq five years ago and this one is that R.J. now has some understanding of his dad’s role overseas. It has been difficult to strike a balance between giving him too much information and keeping him completely in the dark. At the beginning, Lupe and Richard kept it to the basics, but now she leaves it to R.J. to bring up the subject and ask questions, which she tries to answer and talk through with him as best as possible. And in an effort “to not make him have anxiety or anything … I just try to keep reinforcing that his dad’s doing his job and knows what he’s doing. I just try to not elaborate on exactly what he’s doing there,” she said.

As Christmas approaches, Lupe hopes to keep everything as normal as possible for her son’s sake. They’ll still be visiting both sides of the family, and R.J. will even have presents under the Christmas tree from his dad, who managed to order gifts online.

Lupe and R.J. also bought Christmas presents for Richard, though they’ve decided to save them until he returns, so they can open the presents together.

For all special occasions, Lupe said she is trying to take as many pictures as possible, to either send to Richard or save for when he returns, and remember as many details as possible to tell Richard later.

Before he left, Lupe and Richard made a pact to not unnecessarily worry each other while separated. That means that Lupe does not tell her husband when something breaks down or about the minor, everyday problems she may encounter, “because he can’t do anything about it but will still worry about it.” And the same goes for Richard.

He doesn’t tell Lupe when he’s having a bad day or every detail of his life in Iraq, though he would tell her anything she really needed to know, like if he got hurt, for example.

More than anything, Lupe and R.J. draw their support from both Lupe’s and Richard’s large, extended families – Lupe has seven brothers and five sisters. “They’re always there, asking how we’re doing and if we need anything,” she said. Lupe even has a brother who served in the Marines and a nephew in the Air Force, both of whom served tours in Iraq, so they know firsthand what her husband is facing. Her brothers are always reassuring her that Richard knows what he is doing and he wouldn’t be there if he didn’t.

Nineteen-month-old Elizabeth looks at a photo of her father, Cameron Nowell, a CW2 in the Army currently serving in Iraq.

Though she misses him, Lupe knows that this is a commitment her duty-bound husband must complete.

“People always ask how I let him do it, and I always say, ‘I didn’t let him do it.’ I knew what he was when I met him and married him. Although he was a reservist, I knew that he could go at any time,” Lupe said. “I would have never asked him not to do it, because he believed it was his duty and he chose to do this. He never would have turned down something or even volunteered for the military if he didn’t know what he was getting into.”

The Nowell Family

It was difficult when Katie Nowell’s husband left shortly after their May 1, 2004 wedding to serve a tour in Afghanistan. As a result, Katie spent much of her time dwelling on the fact that he was gone.

Now, four years later, Cameron, 36, a CW2 in the Army, is serving a 12- to 15- month-long tour in Iraq. And this time, 27- year-old Katie is wiser.

She has learned to keep busy, filling her time with school (she just received her bachelor’s degree in history from Chaminade University, based in Honolulu, Hawaii) and volunteering (she helps out at the Kern County Museum and aids a friend who teaches sixth grade at Standard Middle School). She’s also busy caring for their 19- month-old daughter, Elizabeth.

She has also learned the importance of keeping in constant communication with her husband. He usually calls home once a week, but the 10-hour time difference makes getting in touch difficult. However, the Internet – and especially webcams – has been her saving grace. She e-mails Cameron at least twice a day to keep him up-to-date with what’s going on at home. She also “practically walks around with a camera in hand,” so that she can e-mail him pictures to keep him connected to what’s happening at home.

Christmas is going to be especially tough, though – and understandably so.

“He’s not going to be here to see her open all her presents. I’ll video record and I’ll take pictures, but it’s just not the same,” she said. “But he missed her first birthday and he’ll miss her second birthday, so I’ve already had a little bit of him not being here for certain events. I’ve dealt with that before.

“In a way, she’s still so young that she doesn’t really have a clue. But then again, she’s 19 months old; so every day she’s learning something new. That’s really hard. I just think, ‘Oh, he’s missing out on her saying this or doing that. So I think that’s the hardest part of him being gone. I look at her every day and I see him. And I see her doing stuff, and I’m like, ‘I wish your dad was here.’” This year, the family will be keeping the celebrations the same, albeit with a lot more videos and pictures than in years past. However, since it does take a few weeks to ship packages to Iraq, Katie did her Christmas shopping in October this year, which was a little weird, she said.

“It was like, here I am, wrapping stuff in Christmas paper, and it’s not even Halloween yet,” she joked.

When her husband was deployed in July, Katie decided to move back in with her parents in Bakersfield. Before he left, Cameron had been stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, but Katie couldn’t imagine staying there, because “Alaska is just so different, so cut off from the rest of the world.” Plus, she wanted the extra help in caring for Elizabeth.

Though she does have the support of her parents and sister, the biggest drawback of living in Bakersfield has been losing the constant support of other military wives and families.

“If I was in Alaska, I would have all the other wives whose husbands are gone, who understand each other,” she said. “But being in Bakersfield, there aren’t too many military families – that I know of anyway – that are around. So when I say, ‘Oh, my husband’s gone,’ it’s like no one else has had a spouse be gone for so long to understand what I’m going through.”

The Rodarte Family
Patrick Ortega had always considered joining the military, but after high school he decided to try his hand at plumbing and dishwashing and construction instead. These were OK jobs but they weren’t getting him anywhere. So he decided to go for it: He enlisted in the Marines.

Patrick is currently serving as a lance corporal in the Marine Corps; he was deployed to Iraq on Aug. 31.

Though there was no doubt from the get-go that the 24-year-old would eventually end up in either Iraq or Afghanistan, the transition has been difficult for his family and mother Patty Rodarte especially.

“There are times when I think about him, like right now, and I’ll just break down. But I’m by myself and nobody sees it,” Patty said. “(On the phone), I just keep straight. I don’t (tell him) that I’m worried. I just say, ‘I love you and I’m proud of you. Just come home safe.’ “I try to keep cool the same way that he is. He’s just very nonchalant about everything over there.

It’s just like, “Oh, by the way, we got hit.” So I try to stay cool about it and not show him that I’m fearful, to keep him in the attitude that he has, keep him OK,” Patty said.

“Adding salt to the wound,” this Christmas also marks the first since Patty’s father passed away last January from a sudden, massive heart attack.

He was in good health and had no major health problems, so it was completely unexpected. With her father’s death and Patrick now in Iraq, “it really has been a double hitter on our family,” Patty said.

She has found her strength, though, in Patrick and what he is doing. He’s even inspired her and her husband, Fernando Rodarte, to start going to the gym. “It encourages both of us to be strong.
We try to find the time to keep the deal that we made until he gets back,” Fernando said.

“We know that we’ve got to get off the couch or wherever, because we know that he’s out there, and we’re going to keep doing that.” Though he also misses his family, Patty said her son has found a real zeal in serving in Iraq.

“I think he misses being with the family, being over there. But he has an excitement to him, because he’s traveled everywhere. To me, it seems like it’s really exciting for him to do what he’s doing. I think that (overpowers) missing people here,” she said.

Fernando also has a son, Michael Rodarte, from a previous marriage currently serving a two-year stint in South Korea. He is a senior airman in the Air Force and has been on active duty for the past 10 years.

Since Michael has been in the military for several years now, Fernando said he has managed to program himself to not show a lot of worry and to keep himself from dwelling on the negative.

Because both Patrick and Michael are in different time zones from their parents and spend much of their time either working or out in the field, coordinating phone calls usually proves to be a challenge. Patty said she talks to her son about once a week, though since he works as a military police escorting convoys through Northern Iraq, it has been harder to communicate with him as he frequently leaves on missions. Fernando also tries to talk to his son regularly, though admittedly it’s much harder now that he’s stationed overseas.

“We just have to be patient and wait for them to make that call. A lot of times, when we don’t hear from them, we start wondering, and that’s when we say a little prayer and hope everything is OK,” Fernando said.

“It’s a sigh of relief when we do get those calls.” During those times when they haven’t heard from Patrick or Michael, they rely on memories of the past, “of the fun times we shared with the kids when they were here,” to keep them looking forward to the next phone call, Fernando said.

Patrick also keeps in contact with his sisters (Nicky, 35, and Christine, 34) through MySpace and e-mail, and his sisters, in turn, relay his messages to the rest of the family.

Patty and Fernando receive most of their support from her big family – a family in which everyone is constantly asking how he is doing and if they can see pictures.

She also receives a lot of support from the mother of one of her son’s friends, Ernest, himself a former soldier in Iraq. So his mom knows firsthand what Patty is going through. In fact, “she was like a second mother (to Patrick), so when he went to Iraq, she cried more than I did, I think. She’s a lot of support to us, too,” Patty said.

2008 Reflections & 2009 Projections

2008 Reflections and 2009 Projections

With 2008 coming to a close, many local leaders look back at a year full of the unexpected. From the economy to gas prices to a historic presidential election, 2008 was certainly a year of change.
The year of 2009 expects to be as unpredictable as 2008.

How will the recession affect us? Will housing bounce back? Will the giving nature of Bakersfield residents continue to keep local nonprofits alive?

Bakersfield Life spoke to 18 locals and asked what they will remember about 2008 and what they expect in 2009.It’s no surprise, the one thing in common is the new year, like the one before, is filled with uncertainty.

Harvey Hall
Mayor,
City of Bakersfield

Looking back at 2008
This year brought sudden hardship to the citizens and businesses of Bakersfield.

The uncertainty of a depressed economy is a major contributing factor. However, Bakersfield enjoys a single-digit unemployment rate thanks to the development of new commercial businesses in Bakersfield.

I am proud to say that a very positive step occurred in helping others this year, the adoption of a 10-year plan to end homelessness – a “housing first” component. This effort concluded after two years of very worthwhile contributions made by the 45- member committee in partnership with the United Way of Kern County.

Reflecting on 2008, my hat is tipped to the people of Bakersfield for making our city a better place to work and raise a family.

Looking ahead to 2009

As we begin 2009, it will require a great deal of effort to meet the many new challenges.

Local government agencies will be required to provide essential public services with budgetary restraints. Residents will be asked to modify their lifestyles. Families will have to depend on each other for emotional and financial support. Community service agencies will need to find new sources of income as community giving declines. Pride in our diversity in 2009 is a positive attitude that only contributes to our unity as a community. Embrace it!

It is my hope that the success of each business and individual will continue, and as a community, we will overcome adversity to sustain the good life that Bakersfield has always given back to its people.

Donny Youngblood
Sheriff, County of Kern

Looking back at 2008
Looking back at 2008 I see the turmoil of a perfect financial storm. I see the short path from posterity in county funds to a situation that is dramatically gloomy. The financial meltdown has caused a trickle down effect on the State of California and the County of Kern. Looking back, I see what we in the Sheriff ’s office have been able to accomplish in spite of the fi nancial issues and how we have become such a very effective team committed to serving our county.

Looking ahead to 2009

Looking forward I see opportunity.
I see the opportunity for us to become more innovative in the way we provide law enforcement services. I see the financial environment as getting worse before it gets better which allows us to begin to think outside that financial box we in government live in. How can we perform the same level of service with less money? I see us having the opportunity to do what we do better and more efficiently. As I look forward I see nothing but positives. We just have to take advantage of those positives.

Debbie Moreno
President/CEO,
Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce

Looking back at 2008
2008 has been a rocky road for business and the economy in general and this has created an opportunity for businesses to really take a second look at their companies. For many, it’s been a time for businesses to get back to basics, reassess their strengths and concentrate on what they do best. In the same way, 2008 has been a year for individuals and families to take a good hard look at spending habits and assess what’s really necessary and important in their lives.

Looking ahead to 2009
In 2009, I hope that we all will have learned something important about spending and saving, that we will have learned that we can’t sustain spending beyond our means, not as individuals, not as businesses and not as government. Then when things do turn around (I have high hopes for mid-year ’09), we will all be in a better place both personally and professionally.

Keith Brice
President,
Mid-State Development Corporation

Looking back at 2008
We entered 2008 with hopes of a bottoming out of the negative housing trend nationally and in Kern County, which, at the time, seemed to have the biggest impact on economic growth. Subsequently, not only did the housing market continue to decline, but crude oil began to rise to historic levels.

That’s a mixed blessing for our county. It’s good for the oil patch and our county tax revenue, but bad for non-oil related industries and the consumer. As a result of strong oil and agricultural sectors, our local employment has not been impacted as severely as other areas. While it’s hard not sound completely negative, a significant positive was that Americans were engaged more than ever in our political future with record voter turnout both in the primaries and general election.

Looking ahead to 2009
I’m not an economist nor do I pretend to be one, however, here are a few of my best guesses. I think housing sales will continue to pick up (we are already seeing improvement in certain markets). Crude oil will average around $80 per barrel (this is supported by local industry people). Short-term interest rates will remain low as an incentive to both the financial industry and the consumer.

I refuse to take the easy route and talk about potential negatives. What I’m hoping is that we make a strong effort to emphasize positive trends and events. That’s not only with various media outlets but as individuals. The sooner we think things are improving the better off we will be.

Richard Chapman
President & CEO,
Kern Economic Development Corporation

Looking back at 2008
In 2008, Kern EDC had one of its most successful years in its 20-year history. Successful projects included Railex (agriculture/logistics), Famous Footwear (logistics) and Rio Bravo Medical Center (healthcare). In addition, Kern County/Bakersfield was the recipient of several national best-of awards that highlighted the recent diversification and sustainability of our local economy beyond oil and agriculture and debunked prevailing beliefs about Kern County’s weak economic foundation.

Looking ahead to 2009
Although, we are facing significant statewide and national economic uncertainty, Kern County’s major industry clusters (aerospace, logistics, healthcare, energy, agriculture and business services) are forecasted to expand at a robust rate (from 5 to 10 percent annual employment gains). While the residential and retail sectors will remain weak, the office and industrial sector should experience moderate growth as companies continue to migrate out of the L.A. Basin.

Jennifer Henry

Executive Director,
Links for Life

Looking back at 2008
What I see looking back in 2008 is the wonderful community of Kern County that is extremely generous in their support of Links for Life. With this support, we were able to provide mammograms and ultrasounds to more than 1,000 women throughout Kern County.

Looking back at 2008
What I see in 2009 is the continued fight against breast cancer, and with the local support, we can continue the assistance for the women and families. Thank you to all of our supporters; it is because of you we are saving lives!

Sue Benham
Chief Development Officer,
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
City Councilmember,
City of Bakersfield

Looking back at 2008
My new position as Chief Development Officer at Memorial Hospital has been very exciting as we prepared for the opening of our new West Tower. I’m especially grateful to our community partners who helped us reach our goal. As a councilmember, I’m proud of the new Bakersfield welcome signs, the streetscape improvements downtown at 19th and Eye streets, and the new spray area at Jastro Park. Personal highlights included seeing our youngest child graduate from high school and start UC Berkeley and seeing my dear friend Wendy’s courage and grace in her fight against cancer.

Looking ahead to 2009
At Memorial, we look forward to the opening of the only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in the Southern San Joaquin Valley.

This will be a great benefit to young patients and their families in our area. In my Council role, I’m excited about the beautiful Mill Creek improvements to Central Park and the adjacent area, the Baker Street redevelopment project and the extension of Mohawk Street. Personally, I hope to stay healthy so I can enjoy life and adventures with my family and friends.

Dean Florez
State Senator,
6th District Senate Majority Leader

Looking back at 2008
Any year that I get to watch my children grow up is a great year. But the failing economy and our troops still fighting in far off lands really made the year a difficult one.

But the election at the end of the year offered hope and it showed that we can come together and find a new direction for our country.

2008 was a great year for Democrats. The election brought a great deal of hope for change in the direction of our country and I thought that this was a good thing – for our country to take a deep breath and say that we want to go in a different direction and have the ability to make such a change. America is a great country, no doubt about it.

Looking ahead to 2009
look forward to the birthday parties, summer barbecues and other celebrations. I also look forward to just seeing people in town and hearing their stories and sharing a hello. It’s small town life, but it’s the life that I enjoy.

I was recently named as the Senate Majority Leader, so I have new responsibilities and challenges at work. I hope that I can be a part of the solution to getting us through the difficult economic times we are facing.

I’m also planning on running for Lieutenant Governor, so I look forward to putting together an energetic campaign and team to help me in this endeavor.

I expect that our economy will continue to suffer for a while, but I am optimistic that we can work together to solve this situation. We’re a great country and a great state and we’ve faced similar situations and we’ve been able to come together – it just takes leadership, a strong will and a desire to make things work.

Sheryl Chalupa
President/CEO, Goodwill Industries of South Central California

Looking back at 2008
I see a year of lessons learned about running a business in challenging times.

We experienced fluctuating fuel prices, diminishing value of donated goods and significantly increased demand for jobs and services. We learned that we need to improve our ability to be nimble and react more quickly to a rapidly changing environment. Most of all, we learned that we must make optimal use of our limited resources in order to protect jobs and vital mission services.

Looking ahead to 2009
We know this economic downturn will continue and perhaps worsen, budgets will be cut, demands on services will escalate, fuel and energy costs will be unpredictable and there will be no short-term solutions. There is a range of possible outcomes to this scenario and we must work together with our generous donors and community partners to exercise the strategic leadership needed to guide our way through these events, turning them to our advantage. We must be fiscally sound today and grow in the future to fulfill our mission.

Gaurdie E. Banister Jr.
President & CEO,
Aera Energy LLC

Looking back at 2008

Our family had a nice return to Bakersfield. We renewed old acquaintances and met new friends. I am pleased that I have been able to connect with most of the people in my company and understand what is on their minds. The business has been on quite a roller coaster with record high prices and unprecedented volatility. I am fortunate to have come into a very strong company with great people and a well-earned reputation in the community. It has been good to get back into the Bakersfield community to help continue that tradition of involvement. The donation to the Grossman Burn Center at San Joaquin Community Hospital was one of many highlights.

Looking ahead to 2009
I will be viewing the energy business from a global, long-term perspective and I look forward to helping people understand the balance between the short and long term. I expect the times will remain volatile and the discussions difficult as various legislative and regulatory proposals challenge the economic viability of the business. I remain committed to ensure that everyone goes home alive and well every day and that we are responsible stewards of the environment in which we operate.

Ed Jagels

Kern County District Attorney

Looking back at 2008
I watched my nine-year-old mature into a little man. He began to be interested in adult things and will even occasionally watch the Dodgers and the Lakers with me. I’ll remember 2008 as the year we really became proactive in combating gang violence. We started our Target Gang List and did our first compliance sweep. The gangsters have started worrying about what will happen next.

Looking ahead to 2009
I hope 2009 will be a great year because my son is finally old enough to go fishing with minimal assistance. I’m planning various fishing trips to great locations. I’m really looking forward to him becoming a great angler.

Our goal is to have every Target gangster on our list in custody by July 1, thus letting the gangsters know that if you get on our list, jail or prison is an absolute certainty. It will be a very challenging year, as everyone in law enforcement – including me – will have to work overtime to prevent the administration and the legislature from using the budget crisis as an excuse to release thousands of felons from state prison.

Dr. Greg Chamberlain
President, Bakersfield College

Looking back at 2008
2008 was the 95th year of Bakersfield College and we had the most students in our history – 17,898 – seeking higher education. Our staff and faculty are working diligently to provide quality programs and services to meet the demand.

Personally, 2008 meant a return to the community college I love and the place where my daughter graduated, and I am working to ensure our students have every chance of meeting their educational goals.

Looking ahead to 2009
2009 promises to be a challenging year for Bakersfield College and the entire state of California. Significant budget cuts will slice away at the very core of programs and services that our students truly need. Each student unable to attend Bakersfield College is another dream lost in an already challenged higher education society. Bakersfield College is poised to do all possible, in the face of these challenges, to provide quality education to all who seek it.

Bill Rector
Chief of Police, City of Bakersfield

Looking back at 2008
Looking back in 2008, the most significant event was Officer Dennis Eddy getting shot. Fortunately, he survived and is on the road to recovery. The department was awarded the prestigious Helen Putnam Public Safety Award for the “A Life Interrupted” Program. This was a great honor for department staff and, of course, the mothers and families involved in this important prevention program.

Looking ahead to 2009
The economy will be on the forefront of thought. We are entering some very challenging times for the police department due to the state of the economy. However, we have some very creative department staff members who are dedicated to the community and we will get past these challenging times. Department staff along with other county law enforcement agencies will create a countywide data sharing system. This will enable law enforcement officers to easily check data from other police agencies, aiding in investigations.

Rudy Carvajal
Athletic Director,
CSU Bakersfield

Looking back at 2008
Thanks to the vision of President Horace Mitchell, it was exciting to lead the way to Bakersfield becoming a Division I city as we played our first full NCAA Division I schedules in 2008. Providing our student-athletes the opportunity to compete and to represent the university and the city of Bakersfield at the highest level of collegiate athletics is the culmination of the dreams of many people and something we will look back on with tremendous pride. In addition, there will be long term benefits for this region, since a Division I university represents important institutional associations, relationships, image and perception that will help define our university for future generations.

Looking ahead to 2009
We look ahead eagerly to the new adventures awaiting us in 2009. While the economy weighs heavily in so many endeavors, it won’t deter us in our mission to provide quality, comprehensive educational and athletic opportunities to the deserving young men and women who represent CSUB and Bakersfield across the nation so well and with such pride.

Megan Langenfeld
Softball player attending UCLA
Centennial High School graduate

Looking back at 2008
Looking back on 2008, I saw a tremendous amount of success, both on and off the softball field. The UCLA Bruins got back to the Women’s College World Series after not getting out of regionals the previous year. The school year was difficult but I got through it and am now one step closer to completing my degree in mathematics. The summer was full of fun times with teammates, school and softball. I learned how to speak Romanian with five of my teammates and also played summer ball with another teammate. I got to see Niagara Falls and win Women’s Open Nationals.
It was an amazing year and I am hoping next year will be even better.

Looking ahead to 2009
What I see in 2009 is two words – national championship! The UCLA Bruins got to feel what it was like to be at the “big show” and unfortunately did not get it done. Luckily, with the majority of the team returning, we have more fire in our guts to get it done in 2009. We have one thought in our heads – to win a national championship. I see the Bruins coming out on top of the softball world!

Russell Judd
President, Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield

Looking back at 2008
Mercy had a busy 2008. We celebrated patient satisfaction scores at all-time highs and were recognized nationally for our outstanding achievement for the second year in a row. We received recognition for the successful quality improvement methods developed here. In addition, we continued to build creative solutions for staffing challenges with partners like BC and CSUB.Mercy continued to add programs like hospice and the Lactation Support Center and we provided hundreds of health screenings for our community.

Looking ahead to 2009
More growth is in store for Mercy in
2009. As our community continues to grow, we need to grow too. The expansion of the Florence R. Wheeler Cancer Center is starting and will be near completion in 2009.Plans for a patient tower at our Southwest Campus are moving along as well. Expect to see Mercy continue to excel in patient satisfaction and quality as the efforts to provide access to quality care never stop.

Della Hodson
President and Chief Professional Officer, United Way of Kern County

Looking back at 2008
I will remember 2008 as the year I was forced to admit I am a grown-up. Once you turn 50 and put the word president after your name, there’s no more denying it. It was also a year in which our United Way forged relationships with new donors, volunteers and nonprofit partners to tackle some of the most critical issues facing our community.

Looking ahead to 2009

Looking ahead to 2009, I am especially excited about the work we are doing to help hard-working Kern County families become financially stable. With our strong network of partners, we will help more families claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and establish personal savings. In spite of current economic uncertainty, I am confi dent the caring people of Kern County will continue to support efforts to build a strong, healthy community.

Chris Thompson
Managing Editor, Bakersfield Life magazine

Looking back at 2008
As I look back on 2008, I see that we all have been affected by hard times in one way or another. The downturn in our economy was more than expected; everyone has felt the effects. At home, I watched my daughter Victoria and son Christopher enter into high school and junior high, bringing new opportunities for them to learn. In the office, I have had the opportunity to work with the most dedicated staff of professionals that have the readers of this magazine in mind every day.

Looking ahead to 2009
In 2009, as we continue to work through our hardships, I see Bakersfield residents continuing to come together to help those who need. I am excited to welcome a new addition to our household as Kelly and I have been blessed with a little girl due in May. For Bakersfield Life magazine, there are so many plans in the works to take your city magazine to the next level. Our thanks go out to all of those who have been part of this publication in the last year. From those featured in stories, to our writers and advertisers, and especially you, our readers, we thank you for being part of the ever-growing Bakersfield Life family. From all of us, we wish you a happy 2009.

Hide and Go Seek

Bakersfield wine enthusiasts have options when it comes to purchasing their drink of choice, but many times the drop-off point on the way home from work for an exquisite bottle results in a stop at the grocery store. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that in itself, but the selection is limited and a thirst for something a bit more special simply can’t be quenched.

The Gourmet Shoppe offers another level of quality and Costco even has some top-notch wines, but sometimes these stores aren’t convenient. There are small shops and hidden gems that might be unknown to many that offer that next level of wine throughout Bakersfield, most likely within a couple of miles from pretty much everyone inside the city limits.

We take this opportunity to introduce you to them, from the exceptional selection on the Eastside to the Downtown dynamo; from the Northwest newbie to the true hidden gem in the Southwest; and don’t forget about the shop on Ming Avenue known for its sandwiches, not its wine. After this, these somewhat unknowns should turn into regular stopping points for wine lovers throughout Bakersfield.

Country Club Liquors
3737 Columbus St.

A hidden Eastside gem, Country Club Liquors might be out of the way for many to head to for a quick wine run. But for those who live in Northeast Bakersfield, and for those who find themselves on the Eastside, a stop at Country Club Liquors is a must for one of the most diverse wine selections in the city.

Owner Jack Waters actually believes that his business would thrive in other parts of Bakersfield. “We’d do great if we were in the Southwest or the Northwest, but we do OK up here, too,” Waters said. “We’d boom out there, but we like the rent up here better.”

Waters has been in the liquor business for 48 years and was one of several people who were in on the beginning of the wine movement in Bakersfield. His selection of 500 wines shows exactly that. While Waters sells plenty of Silver Oak – like everyone else in town – look for some lesser-known but high-quality wines that Country Club Liquors features, such as the 1998 Paoletti Non Plus Ultra, which is a steal at $96.50.

Also look for Hanzell Vineyards’ excellent 1998 chardonnay ($49.50) or the 2004 Beaulieu Vineyard Private Reserve cabernet sauvignon that received a score of 95 from Wine Enthusiast ($96.50). Or check out the variety of imports such as the 1998 Chateau Petit Village Pomerol ($64.50), or one of a pair of stars from Italy’s Ruffino: a 1999 Brunello di Montalcino Greppone Mazzi sangiovese ($72.50) or the 2000 Modus ($75.95).

In addition to wine, Country Club also offers some of the best sandwiches in Bakersfield – be sure to try the White Cadillac – as well as a huge beer selection.

It’s About The Wine
9500 Brimhall Road

The new kid on the wine block is It’s About The Wine, and it seems to have just about everything that a specialty wine shop could ask for: location, selection and value. From its Northwest Bakersfield location in Brimhall Square – the same shopping center that houses Action Sports, Prime Cut and The Orchid – to its nearly 300 wines in stock, It’s About The Wine seems to have it all despite being open just nine months.

But the key selling point for It’s About The Wine is the ease in which a person can browse each wine selection. The entire store is arranged according to varietal and price point, which makes finding the perfect wine at the perfect price a cinch. “I wanted to make it easy to see things,” owner Mike Hefner said. “And I wanted to emphasize food pairings, which enhances the overall enjoyment of wine, which includes food and friends.”

Hefner is very particular about which wines to stock, and It’s About The Wine carries some wines that simply can’t be found anywhere else in Bakersfield. Try one of the best pinot noirs available in Bakersfield, the 2005 Goldeneye Anderson Valley ($54.99), or a rare Dominus 2004 Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon ($137.99) from the brilliant mind of Christian Moueix.

It’s About The Wine also carries great wines from such wineries as Far Niente, Silver Oak, Madorom, Caymus Vineyards, The Hess Collection and Star Lane Vineyard, and many more.

A Cellar Above
4711 Wilson Road

If you haven’t heard of A Cellar Above, or even noticed the sign while driving along Wilson Road, don’t feel bad. First and foremost, there is no sign that reads “A Cellar Above” in front of the store. Secondly, this little store where Stine Road dead ends into Wilson is probably better known for being a post office instead of a wine store.

But those who are in the know have been treated to owner Ron Bierman’s special collection of amazing wines from throughout California, many of which can’t be found anywhere else in Bakersfield. “I bring in the wines that I like,” Bierman said. “I like small, handcrafted wineries. I like to bring in wines with numbers; the ones that have rated well with Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator. I also like to bring in wines with aging potential.”

The result is a spectacular wine shop in a most unsuspecting location. The tiny shop crams hundreds of bottles in a confined space along with the post office section that shares the store. The odd combination originated when Bierman owned and operated Southside Pharmacy in the same location and had the post office inside. The pharmacy is gone, but the post office remains.

So when the need arises to ship a package before a dinner at home, kill two birds with one stone by selecting first class shipping before picking up a bottle of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 2002 Estate cabernet sauvignon ($152.99) or any other of Bierman’s impressive collection of hard-to-find and delicious wines from around California.

Brinks Deli
3803 Ming Ave.

Brinks might be just a tiny store that is known mainly for its excellent sandwiches and a crowded seating area at lunch in a large strip mall on Ming Avenue. And while some might notice the northwest corner of the store that is crowded with wines, few think of Brinks as one of Bakersfield’s premier shops for wine.

Unlike some of the other stores listed here, Brinks has a much smaller selection to choose from. But there’s no such thing as a bad wine at Brinks, even though they might not be from the most well known wineries in California. “I like to have unique and hard-to-find wines here,” Brinks owner Guy Ceresa said. “And we have more from Central California than ever before. It used to be all Napa and Sonoma.”

With selections of wine from Silver Oak Cellars, Eberle Winery, Opolo Vineyards and Twomey Cellars among others, it’s amazing that Brinks isn’t better known for its wine selection. But according to Ceresa, that’s exactly the case. “Most of our business comes from people who are here for lunch and take a bottle home for dinner.” But when the Brinks secret gets out, don’t expect that to be the case for long.

Westchester Liquors
2408 F St.

“You hunt for wines, that’s what you do.” It was just a simple statement made in passing by Bill Taylor, owner of Westchester Liquors since 1951, but it couldn’t ring more true for this Downtown Bakersfield hot spot for fine wines – or any wine for that matter. Taylor was discussing the importance of individuals finding wines that they enjoy, not what others deem to be quality. But in doing so, he touched on the exact reason why Westchester Liquors is such a treat.

Part of the fun of going to Westchester Liquors is to hunt around the wine room that is connected to the main liquor store for the treasures that might be lurking. But if searching for that hidden special bottle doesn’t sound appealing, there are plenty in plain view that are worth stopping by for.

Westchester Liquors has an impressive selection of all varietals, but a look at its variety of cabernet sauvignon is amazing. The crown jewel cab is the 2005 Caymus Vineyards Special Selection ($179.99), but the so-called high-end wines in this section continues with selections from such wineries as Far Niente, Heitz Cellar, Silver Oak, Duckhorn Vineyards, Vina Almaviva and Cakebread Cellars.

But this is just the start at Westchester Liquors. Go for champagne, dessert wines or anything between. And don’t be afraid to hunt for wines. Just like Taylor says, that’s what you do.

From Uptown To Downtown

From Uptown To Downtown
The latest looks in fall fashion
Story by Melissa Palmer
Photos by Holly Carlyle

When French first lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy made an entrance last March at a London luncheon dressed in a double-breasted, violet Dior trench worn over a gray wool pantsuit, fashionistas the world over swooned in a heliotrope-induced haze. Fast forward to today, and the color purple – from the palest lilac to an intense, velvety plum – is the hottest color of the season.

“Berry colors are everywhere for fall,” says Britt McQuire, manager at downtown’s upscale boutique Bellissima. “Especially purples; they look just beautiful with traditional fall colors like gray and brown.”

Temperatures may still seem summery in Bakersfield, but fall fabrics and shapes are already appearing in the most fashionable stores in town. Lori Malkin, owner of sister boutiques Christine’s and LoLo’s in the Stockdale Fashion Plaza, agrees that vibrant, rich colors paired with classic neutrals will define the season’s most popular trends. Malkin pulls out a Michael Kors glen plaid wool sheath in charcoal that, with its simple lines and tailored proportions, “looks like something Jackie Kennedy might have worn.” Paired with a satiny vermilion cropped jacket with tabbed bubble sleeves by Teri Jon’s JON Sportswear ($294), the look is sleek, professional and thoroughly modern.

From simple shapes to elaborate layering techniques, the juxtaposition of style trends from past and present will be popping up on this season’s snappiest dressers. “Think glamorous – like satiny fabrics with beautiful detailing – like you might have seen in Hollywood in the ‘40s and ‘50s,” says Miss Holiday owner Shelly Palla. She pulls out a grey Nu Collective v-neck top with bow ($169) that has a silver sheen in the diffused light of her Hageman Road boutique. “You can wear this under a jacket during the day and change into a pair of straight-legged Joe’s Jeans ($169) and some satin heels at night.”

As the weather begins to cool, fall coats in every color and shape will make an appearance, and this season you’ll be seeing a lot of fitted, cropped blazers, edgy black biker jackets, and stylish, belted trenches. Palla believes that jackets lend polish to an outfit and a softer, more feminine silhouette can make it easier to transition your look from casual to work wear. She loves Rebecca Taylor’s inky blue wool and angora peplum jacket ($425), which is detailed with unique pyramid-shaped buttons on the placket and cuffs. Another favorite look is a Nanette Lepore ruched pencil skirt in black ($295) with a Rebecca Taylor white chiffon blouse ($250) that balances the roomier top with a high waist and narrow streamlined profile below.

Over at Christine’s, Malkin is also carrying coats that make a statement, including belted animal print trenches from People Like Frank ($482) and Think Tank ($170). “Tucking boots into jeans is definitely a hot look for fall, so with a great pair of David Kahn dark wash trouser jeans ($160) and a sexy pair of high heeled boots, bold jackets like these really let you carry off a fun, sophisticated look,” she says.

McQuire mentions that there is one piece that just cannot be overlooked. “Don’t forget sweater dresses,” she says, pulling out 525 America’s chunky popcorn knee-length knit in oatmeal ($118). She suggests dressing it up with tights and boots, or contrasting leggings and a ballet flat. “The 1980s are back!” McQuire says with a laugh.

Denim is a seasonless trend for both men and women, particularly in a jeans-friendly city like Bakersfield. Although premium denim is difficult to find locally for men, Guilty, an upscale men’s boutique located inside House of Moseley on Chester Avenue, carries brands like 7 Diamonds, 7 For All Mankind and Paper Denim & Cloth for Bakersfield’s young and fashion-conscious guys. Owner Alexis Valpredo says that she’s keeping shirt colors light for fall – olive greens, lighter blues – as well as the more traditional colors like black and chocolate brown.

A final word of seasonable advice for fashionistas? Forget the rules that define what colors are wearable together. Go ahead and put those mustard leggings under that gorgeous purple dress, and throw on a killer pair of forest green high-heeled oxfords to boot. Why not? Style is about finding what makes you feel good, and color – in the rich, satiny fabrics of fall – can make you feel like a million bucks. As “What Not To Wear’s” Stacy London says, “they don’t match. They go.”

On The Red Couch - September

Think Pink
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it was only fitting for Bakersfield’s Life’s “On The Red Couch” feature to take a look at how breast cancer has affected women in Bakersfield and how we can unite as a community in support of those diagnosed and battling the disease.
Photos by Michael and Esther Duffy, Summit Photography

Sylvia Cariker
19-year survivor of breast cancer

Natalie Grumet
1-year survivor of breast cancer

Joann Nunn
8-year and 6-month survivor of breast cancer

Stana Bright
17-year survivor, recently diagnosed with breast cancer again

Q: What advice would you give other women regarding breast cancer?

Sylvia Cariker - Get your screening mammogram and then continue to get mammograms annually. If you don’t have insurance to pay for these there are a variety of local programs to help the underinsured and the uninsured. No excuses! Contact Links for Life or the American Cancer Society. They’ll hook you up.

Natalie Grumet - I would say to be vigilant about your health. To be your own advocate, listen to your body and to have a doctor that you trust. If I had listened to the first few doctors who told me I was perfectly fine it would have cost me my life. Breast cancer has no boundaries, so no matter your age or background, get the proper screenings and stay on top of your health. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and speak up!

Joann Nunn - You must have faith and believe that you will get through it. You must remember that this too shall pass.

Stana Bright - I would advise other women facing breast cancer to research their options before making a decision on treatment. Find a doctor that you trust and work together. Each patient is different and you can’t compare your case to another.

Q: What aspects of your life have changed since you were diagnosed?

Sylvia Cariker - I know for a fact that I experienced an enhanced spirituality. I do a lot of public speaking on the topic of survivorship and I’m not shy about telling everyone that if you think you can get through your cancer diagnosis and treatment without a belief in a higher power or some kind of faith base, think again. So, in addition to basking in the glow of the incredible love from family and friends and the unexpected compassion of strangers, my faith became stronger.

Natalie Grumet - Having cancer has made me more grateful for life. I have always been optimistic and I am glad that getting cancer hasn’t tainted that part of me. I read somewhere that cancer doesn’t change you, it just amplifies the person you have always been, while some opinions believe that cancer changes a person from the core. I think I go between the two thoughts depending on my mood. I guess the optimist in me would like to believe that any change I have experienced has been for the good. I am definitely more aware of all the positive things in my life and make a conscious effort to focus on those things.

Joann Nunn - Since experiencing cancer I feel my life is richer, friendships are stronger, thoughts are deeper and I have more patience. I don’t sweat the small stuff.

Stana Bright - I do not feel like my life has changed that much. Certain times have been hard, but it has also been the opening to many blessings. Cancer has certainly taught me many lessons and you truly learn to focus on the important things in life. In our support group, we sometimes talk about the gifts of cancer; you have to take the time to see the gifts and know them.

Q: Tell us about your battle and how it has affected you.

Sylvia Cariker - I was diagnosed with breast cancer after finding a lump while showering. Even though I was a volunteer with our local American Cancer Society, I was still terrified. When a doctor says the word cancer to you, it’s hard not to be afraid. I call mine “Cancer Light” because after my mastectomy, no follow-up therapy was recommended: no chemo, no radiation, just a whole lot of doctor’s visits for the next 10 years and a burning passion to find a cure for cancer and to help strengthen those cancer patients who are feeling a little lost. I know that right now many of us are finding it hard to donate to our favorite causes but giving someone else hope -doesn’t cost you a dime.

Natalie Grumet - I was diagnosed with breast cancer one year ago. I had just turned 27 years old. I had unusual pain in my breast that turned into a palpable lump. Between the onset of my symptoms and actual diagnosis was five months, so it was a long road just trying to find out what was wrong. When I found out I had breast cancer I was scared and felt lost. I started chemotherapy and then had a bilateral mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. I have recently finished my treatment and major surgeries. I am trying to get back into a normal kind of life, but of course, my life will never be the same. I don’t know if the fear of the cancer coming back or spreading ever goes away. I do believe I am a stronger person for what I have gone through. I remember I used to worry about leaving the house without makeup or doing my hair. But when you go through chemotherapy and have no hair, eyebrows, eyelashes and look white as a ghost, makeup and hair become a luxury. I have learned to become more confident in myself; going out bald will definitely help anyone with confidence.

Joann Nunn - I was diagnosed in 1999 the first time. I had noticed the lump but never thought it could be breast cancer. A doctor had previously told me if the lump wasn’t painful and I could move it around not to worry about it. I didn’t. Some years later after a routine mammogram I was told that I had a tumor. A biopsy was done and the results came back as malignant. I thought malignant, benign, malignant, benign. Which one is the bad one? The doctor then said it is cancer. I realized that it’s the bad one. I told him what a doctor in my past had told me about the lump. He told me, “All lumps should be taken out and analyzed.” Eight simple words, but so powerful. I have since adopted his statement as my response when someone tells me they have a lump. I remember thinking, why me? But if not me, then who? My mother, daughter, sister, niece? Later, I was strong enough to thank God for blessing me with this. Why not me?

Stana Bright - My cancer journey began in May 1991 when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. I had a mastectomy followed by several months of chemotherapy. Then in May of this year, 17 years to the day, I was diagnosed again. I had another mastectomy and I am currently on chemotherapy treatments again. It was a shock after all these years, but because of my previous experience, I have been able to stay strong and positive.

Q: What gives you hope? What is your inspiration?

Sylvia Cariker - My hope and inspiration can be summed up in one event: the survivor’s lap at the Bakersfield Relay For Life. To see more than a thousand cancer survivors, in various stages of their survivorship, holding hands and walking the track with several thousand cheering them on is not only awe-inspiring but reminds me how far we’ve come in the fight and how much farther we need to go.

Natalie Grumet - Meeting others who are fighting cancer gives me hope and inspiration. I am inspired by the strong spirit of those fighting cancer and their will to never give up. I hope that we find a cure for cancer and improve the ways we can detect cancer to treat it at earlier stages. I am inspired by all the amazing people who are committed to this same hope, many who don’t have cancer but are compassionate and want to be a part of raising awareness as well as funds for research.

Joann Nunn - My hope and inspiration comes from my belief that a cure for cancer is in the very near future.

Stana Bright - My faith gives me hope as it has been strengthened through this experience. My husband, children, family and friends have been beside me and their support makes all the difference. My inspiration is continuing to meet other survivors. I have met women whose faith, courage and humor will stay with me always.

Dining Divas September

Every month, Bakersfield Life sends the Dining Divas out to get the story of a local dining establishment. Lydia Rowles, Katie Kirschenmann, Penny Rafferty and Tracy Walker Kiser have brought you everything from wonderful local dishes to their own home-cooked meals. This month, we combine two of Bakersfield’s favorites pastimes: pizza and football. Donning jerseys from Garces, Centennial, Stockdale and Bakersfield high schools, the ladies enjoyed pizzas from three local restaurants. In a new format, we present a summary of their evening.

Introduction
There’s something about fall in Bakersfield. This time of year, locals find themselves hankering for a fairground fried corn dog and start listening for the sound of high school marching bands on still-balmy Friday nights.
Yep, it’s September and the start of another football season. With this in mind, Bakersfield Life thought it was a perfect time to sample some of Bakersfield’s best pizzas. We put on our favorite high-school football jerseys and headed over to Tracy’s for a football inspired pizza-fest.

In the interest of time, budget and calorie control, we limited our taste testing to three of our favorite pizza joints – Plumberry’s, Cataldo’s and Rosa’s.
As our pizzas arrived, the first thing that struck us was how incredibly different they all were. You’d think being crafted from the same fundamental ingredients would mean the pizzas would look and taste pretty similar. To the contrary, we found that the overall taste and experience of each pizza was distinctly different.

Plumberry’s
Plumberry’s delivered the pizzas that won the highest marks for overall presentation and dramatic flair. Plumberry’s pizzas aren’t so much topped as they are stacked, piled and heaped. The toppings are laid on so thick, it’s hard to tell if there is even a crust hiding under there. And somehow, Plumberry’s manages to craft a surprisingly bright and colorful pizza. It might sound weird, but their pizzas are actually strikingly pretty. At more than $22 per large combo, this might not be the pizza to pick up for the high school team post-practice feed, but if you’re looking for a pizza to impress or something just a little on the side of indulgent, give Plumberry’s a ring and give it a try.

The Colossal Plumberry and Barbecue Chicken were the pizzas we tried. The Colossal is their version of a combination packed thickly with pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, Italian sausage, bell peppers and onions. It was spicy, juicy and very filling served on a crispy crust. The slice tasted better than it looked. Each bite contains a little bit of everything.

What we enjoyed about the Colossal was the freshness of the green bell pepper and onion so that when we took a bite, we got a great crunch along with the crust. With this one slice of pizza, Plumberry’s has found a new group of fans.

The first reaction to the Plumberry’s Barbecue Chicken pizza was wow! The pizza was outstanding with many different tastes and textures. The crust was not soggy despite the enormous amount of ingredients. Sweet barbecue sauce was the base that supported the over-sized chunks of moist, tasty chicken. Sharing the spotlight were crunchy green peppers, snappy white and red onions and sweet pineapple. Penny loved the barbecue chicken pizza and said, “This was by far the best I have had. Usually, on a barbecue chicken pizza you can count the pieces of chicken because there are so few of them. There was no counting here; the pizza was covered in sweet barbecue chicken chunks. This pizza for me won the most flavorful contest.”

Caltado’s
While we were taking pictures, it was decided that we should each hold a piece of pizza for the group photo. Penny chose the garlic chicken pizza called The Queens from Cataldo’s. After holding it for shot after shot and smelling the aromatic garlic, she could not stop herself from taking a bite. The white sauce was light and garlic based and not heavy as expected. The grilled chicken breast was moist and tender, the mushrooms were chewy and the red onion not only added color, but a pop of flavor. The crust was brushed with butter, garlic and sprinkled with salt.

Katie mentions that out of all the pizzas, Cataldo’s looked the most handmade. The crust was rustic and crunchy and the ingredients were piled on. The Queens packed quite a garlicky punch. The chicken tasted wonderfully marinated.

Cataldo’s was definitely not shy with the garlic – it was strewn throughout the pizza – but it didn’t taste bitter like other garlicky pizzas. This garlic tasted sweet, almost caramelized. Between the generous pieces of chicken and garlic, the pizza was dotted with red onion and mushrooms.

The price for this 16-inch specialty pizza was $22.99; they also have other specialty pizzas called The Bronx, The Brooklyn, The New York City and The Manhattan.
Cataldo’s is one of Lydia’s favorite pizzerias. She says that while the toppings are impressive, Cataldo’s is all about the crust. Not only do they hand-toss their crust in the old-style New York City kind of way – and bake it in a brick oven for dense, chewy crispiness – they take it over the top when they finish by brushing it with a garlicky butter concoction that, according to Lydia, “slays me every time.”

Rosa’s
If Plumberry’s had the prettiest pizza, Rosa’s had the best tasting tomato sauce. The sauce is full of herbs and garlic without overpowering the other ingredients. We ordered the Rosa’s Special that contained mushroom, salami, sausage, pepperoni, green pepper, onion and black olive.

The sauce was spicy and the crust was thick with the ingredients almost baked into it. Rosa’s Special was substantial and the sausage they used had great flavor. This pizza would be the perfect choice for a Super Bowl party; it is very filling, full of flavor and a superb value. It’s the kind of pizza that pleases a crowd.

Growing up on the Eastside, Rosa’s was one of Tracy’s favorite places for pizza. Rosa’s pizza is more about the crust than the toppings. Its crust is chewy and thick which makes it stand apart from their competition. Rosa’s uses the perfect amount of sauce and the toppings are fresh. The combination from Rosa’s was less messy but filling because of the chewy crust. The sauce was light to let the toppings and crust stand out. The pizzas are not greasy at Rosa’s because the toppings and the dough are all fresh.

It says a lot that Rosa’s has no chicken specialty pizza. This is a serious we-offer-anchovies-and-so-what-about-it old-school kind of place. The pizza is a classic through and through. The toppings are abundant enough to be hearty but leave enough room to give the sauce and crust equal billing.
If you like your crust crispy, Rosa’s is your place. And at $17.95 for a large combo, you might even be able to afford to feed the defensive linemen.

Impressions
So as the Friday night lights power on and the Monday Night pool grids fill out, consider it an opportunity to mix up your pizza routine. Give a holler to some of our local Bakersfield pizza joints and try something a little different than your usual pizza.

Who's Next!

Who's Next?

Bakersfield’s community leaders have certainly been impressive over the past several decades. They have developed the city from a small town into a bustling municipality that might not be perfect, but is good enough for hordes of people from across the nation to want to move here. But as time goes by, these same leaders step down, one by one, allowing someone else to take over their place in local government, business or the nonprofit world.
There are plenty of these new leaders in their own right throughout the city, but Bakersfield Life sat down with nine of these future leaders to look at what currently drives them and what they see for themselves and the city in the future.
What we found shows that Bakersfield is in good hands. This group is young, bright, intelligent, and most of all, eager to give back to the city that has given them so much. Bakersfield Life takes this time to recognize and highlight the next generation of leaders in Bakersfield. These are the people to watch in the next several decades. See them here now, and watch them grow into our leaders in the future.

Tory Brandt
Executive National Vice President
Arbonne

Tory Brandt isn’t a typical community leader. Sure, she is an active member of the Junior League and is involved at Stockdale Country Club, but this 41-year-old mother of two helps the community in a much different way than most – she helps them become successful.
Brandt is an impressive Executive National Vice President for Arbonne, an international health and beauty products company. Brandt’s job is simply to help other Arbonne consultants be successful. “I’m always looking around for more people in Bakersfield I can help and change their lives,” Brandt said. “I give people the opportunity to have a multi-million dollar company but be a stay-at-home mom or dad at the same time.”
Involvement in Junior League has been key for Brandt. Sitting on the board over the past year as membership co-director has continued her love of giving back, whether to other Arbonne consultants or to Bakersfield in general. “I love giving back to the community,” Brandt said. “The women are amazing there and the connections and friendships I’ve made are amazing, too.”
Brandt is currently in Montana for the summer with her husband Dave and two boys Jack Henry and Hayden, but when she returns, it will be back to assisting others in helping their dreams come true through Arbonne while helping the community improve overall through Junior League.

Joe Hay
Commercial Sales Manager
Jim Burke Ford

At just 29 years old, the knowledge of running one of Bakersfield’s most well-respected businesses might be overwhelming, but Joe Hay takes that current position at Jim Burke Ford in stride. The Notre Dame graduate moved back to Bakersfield three years ago to get involved in running the business.
With his most recent experience coming straight out of college at the Ford Motor Company, Hay understands the auto business well. But the amount of work involved in making Jim Burke Ford run every day was still a bit surprising. “I hate to say it, but making this place run well takes a lot of work,” Hay said.
Preparing to run a business isn’t the only thing that Hay has interest in. The Bakersfield High graduate came home with an intention to stay in Bakersfield permanently and make the city the best it can be. “As the city expands, I want to help serve the needs of the community,” Hay said. “I like to pick something and see it moving forward. My dad and grandpa did a lot in that regard as well.”
Hay isn’t just talking, either. His commitment to the city includes recently joining the board for the Bakersfield Museum of Art Foundation, and he volunteers at Franklin School in a Kern County Superintendent of Schools reading program. He also recently graduated from the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Bakersfield program.

Rick Peace
Founder/President
White Wolf Land Services

Rick Peace might be the senior member of this group, but he might also be the most young-at-heart. Peace’s late run into a key leadership role in Bakersfield came because of a late return to college, but there might not be a person more involved in helping the city more than the 52-year old Peace.
“There are international problems and so much of our efforts go there,” Peace said. “Those are certainly worthy causes, but gosh, we have problems in our own backyard to take care of. I was born and raised here and I’m not going to change. I love Westchester Bakersfield and I’m here for the long haul.”
The long haul for Peace means not only continuing to run White Wolf Land Services, his land consultant business, but also continue to organize the annual Brews in the Village to benefit his nonprofit organization, Children’s Advocates Resource Endowment. Peace also organized the first Relay for Life in California and has served as an officer and volunteer for the Bakersfield Association of Professional Landmen since 1998 and has been its president, vice president of activities and events, vice president of memberships and meetings, and secretary.
Truly a role model for anyone seeking involvement in the community, Peace was able to sum up his future in one sentence: “I think I’m just going to continue to stay involved everywhere I can; maybe even get more involved.”
If that’s the case, the city of Bakersfield will certainly benefit.

David Blaine
Partner
Klein, DeNatale, Goldner, Cooper, Rosenlieb & Kimball, LLP

At just 43 years of age, David Blaine has combined his legal and human resources expertise to run KDG Human Resource Solutions, a division of the Klein, DeNatale, Goldner, Cooper, Rosenlieb & Kimball, LLP law firm. That combination of being an employment lawyer and having human resources experience at a bank gives him unique experience in solving complex employment issues.
But there’s a lot more to Blaine than just his work. He’s involved with Black Gold Productions, the Bakersfield Business Network, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce labor and employment committee, and SHRM, a society for human resource management. He even coaches soccer for the YMCA.
This Garces High graduate left Bakersfield to earn his bachelor’s degree at Cal Poly and his law degree at the University of San Francisco School of Law. But he returned to Bakersfield for a single reason. “It’s changed since I grew up. Instead of people going away and not coming back, people are going away and bringing back well-educated spouses. It’s really making Bakersfield a well-rounded city. We have all of the things that are necessary to make Bakersfield a wonderful place to live. We have the raw materials, we just need to focus and refine.”

Jeff Giumarra
Assistant Controller
Giumarra Vineyards Corporation

When Jeff Giumarra moved away to attend college at Claremont McKenna, he stayed in Los Angeles for work. But he always knew in the back of his mind that he would be moving back to Bakersfield to run his family’s impressive business. The business, which grows everything from table grapes to potatoes, citrus and more, has always been where his heart is.
“I always had an intention of moving back, it was just a matter of when,” Giumarra said. “The opportunity presented itself and I took it. It was a good time.”
The 32-year old Bakersfield High graduate is quick to point out that the business will not be exclusively his in the future. Anyone who has spent any time in the area knows that the Giumarra family is a big one. The business is currently run by the second generation of Giumarras – Jeff’s father and his cousins – and at some point that will transition to Jeff and his cousins.
He is looking to balance involvement in the community, involvement in the family business and involvement with his family for the foreseeable future, while getting involved in other areas as more time presents itself. Giumarra’s current involvement away from the business and family might seem like not very much to him, but it is impressive on its own. He is on the board for the Kern County Economic Development Corporation and his wife is involved in the Junior League.
“Between two young boys, work and my running regimen, it doesn’t leave a lot of time,” Giumarra said. “But I’m on the board for the Kern EDC. I’d like to see our economy grow and get better and keep raising the bar. This is one way I can help see that happen.”

Gino Valpredo
Owner/Manager
Luigi’s

Gino Valpredo has seemingly done it all. He was a local football star at Garces High and went on to play for Pac-10 power Arizona State in college. And after graduation, his thoughts were miles away from Bakersfield while living a great life in Santa Barbara. But, life called an audible at the line of scrimmage to bring Valpredo home.
“My dad called me and asked me to come home and run the business,” Valpredo said. “I hadn’t planned on it. I never thought I’d be in it. But my mom and dad asked me to come home and help and see if I like it, so here I am.”
The 38-year old is now running a Bakersfield legend that is known as much for its historical décor as it is for its ½ & ½. While he wasn’t planning on coming back home while living in Santa Barbara, he’s not planning on leaving Luigi’s at all now. His plans for the future are to keep the restaurant at the same quality level as it always has been and not change too much, but also keep it as updated as possible. He would also like to acquire the building next door to house a bigger kitchen and make more room for private parties at night.
Valpredo is involved in the community by furnishing food for charities from the restaurant, and he certainly knows the restaurant’s legendary status in the city. “I tell everybody every day that I’m blessed,” Valpredo said. “This place has been here since 1910. My grandfather started something special here. I count my blessings every day. This is a great business to have.”

Vincent Fong
District Representative
Congressman Kevin McCarthy

Despite being raised by parents who he described as “apolitical,” 28-year-old Vincent Fong has jumped into the political arena headfirst and is finding more ways to be involved. As District Representative to Congressman Kevin McCarthy, Fong is McCarthy’s eyes and ears in the district, as well as being McCarthy’s spokesman at times while helping to coordinate district events and activities.
Those apolitical parents were key to Fong’s political involvement. The West High graduate was attending UCLA and desired a summer at home, but his parents wouldn’t allow it unless he had a job. “It just happened that Bill Thomas sent out a press release about internships, so I got an internship and worked in the Bakersfield office doing constituent casework.”
He’s been hooked ever since, working in Washington D.C. on the Ways and Means Committee for Thomas before returning to Bakersfield to eventually work for McCarthy. He was also recently elected to the Kern County Republican Central Committee.
Fong’s future is uncertain. In fact, a UCLA professor told him to plan his next five years on a piece of paper, then crumple it up and throw it away because it’s never going to happen as expected. He’s enjoying working with McCarthy, but he isn’t ruling out the possibility of entering public service.
“If I was fortunate enough for something like that to present itself, that would be great, but I’m perfectly happy doing what I do now,” Fong said. “If there are other opportunities to serve the community, though, I’d entertain that.”

Michael Rubio
Fifth District Supervisor
Kern County

There might not be anyone at 30 years old in Bakersfield who is more involved in the community than Shafter High graduate Michael Rubio, but that’s hardly surprising considered his life in public service as Kern County Fifth District Supervisor.
He credits his parents for his interest in public service. “My parents raised me and instilled in me the importance of participating in government to make it work better and to make the world a better place,” he said.
Rubio’s resume is already impressive. He was selected to work for the Department of Justice under President Clinton before returning to Kern County to work under Senator Dean Florez. He was then elected as Kern County’s Fifth District Supervisor at 26 years old and has used a hands-on approach to represent his constituents ever since.
His affiliations are numerous, including chairman of the Joint City/County Standing Committee to Combat Gang Violence and the San Joaquin Valley Regional Planning Agencies Policy Council. And if it is up to the voters, Rubio is planning to serve the community well into the future.
“There is no greater service than public service,” Rubio said. “I will continue to work my hardest to do what I believe is right as a public servant. By tackling local government issues with my core principles of access, accountability and action, I truly hope that I earn the great honor to represent the people of Kern County in another area of service, be that the State Assembly, Senate or U.S. Congress.”

Adam Icardo
Supervisor/Manager
Gary Icardo Farms

Adam Icardo’s entire life has been in his family’s business at Gary Icardo Farms. During summers he worked the harvest, then developed into the harvest manager. The 34-year old Garces graduate then went to Cal Poly to study agribusiness and has now returned to learn how the business is run.
“I came back here and just started learning,” Icardo said. “Every day I keep learning. My dad’s slowly turning certain things over to me, but he keeps a watch on me.”
Gary Icardo Farms handles mostly vegetables and fruit, from onions and peppers to carrots and melons, and also produces some almonds among other things. While the farming industry gets more difficult every day with rising costs, Icardo is looking to do things more efficiently and is learning the political side of farming to better understand the decisions that lawmakers make and how they effect him.
In fact, Icardo is learning about every facet of the business. “I’m learning the farming end of it, but I’m also concentrating on other things that affect our lives also,” Icardo said. “Agriculture is a worldwide business now, it’s not a fruit stand on the side of the road anymore.”
Icardo is staying on top of local business as well. He is on the Kern County Farm Bureau board as well as the Calcot board, and he is also part of the Cal Ag Leadership Program. He also gives time back to Garces High, local churches and the CSU Bakersfield athletics barbecues. His wife is also involved in Junior League, but it appears that Garces is his favorite thing to give back to. “Garces is dear to my heart,” he said. “I’m involved in things happening there. I want to help the next generation of Garces students.”

On The Red Couch - July

Getting Away

Summer means many things – heat, kids out of school, and most of all, vacations. Bakersfield Life gathered four local women who know how to vacation in style to ask them about their summer gatherings. These women have been around the world and their responses are fascinating.

Q: If money were no object, what would be your dream vacation?

Colleen McGauley – I’d return to the Amalfi Coast of Italy, rent a large villa for several months and have family and friends visit as they could. We’d cook local foods, explore, work on relaxing, take cooking classes and enjoy the local regions.

Joanne Briones – I’d like to rent a villa in Tuscany for a month. I love the romance, food and culture of Italy. I like the idea of taking a month because my ideal vacation includes immersing myself in the culture and understanding the people.

Debrah Dutton – A European shopping trip would be a great vacation. As an interior designer, my clients often travel with me to buy furnishings and to gather architectural details and design ideas for their projects. This allows me to travel and work and at the same time do what I love.

Mary Christenson – I’m so boring! I love Santa Barbara, check in at the most luxurious spa for a couple of weeks of exercise, pampering, golf, romantic dining with my hubby, shopping – all with no cell phone.

Q: What’s the best trip you’ve been on in your life?

Colleen McGauley – I was blessed with a two-week vacation aboard a sailing yacht. Athens to Rome … for my 50th birthday, no less!

Joanne Briones – My favorite trip was when my husband and I took a cruise through Tahiti. The islands are gorgeous, the water and beaches are unbelievably spectacular and our yacht for the cruise was something like you’d see in a James Bond movie. Everything was first class, but my favorite experience was in Bora Bora. We went to church in a simple open-air sanctuary on lush grounds where we experienced the most moving service. I still remember the singing from that congregation, it sounded like angels.

Debrah Dutton – A few years ago, I spent a month in France and Italy where we explored the gastronomic regions of Lyon and Dijon, France. The experience of fine French cooking and wine tasting in this Burgundy district made this area of France unforgettable. My favorite place to vacation in Italy was at Lake Como near Milan. The landscape of the Swiss Alps as a backdrop to the shimmering lake is something I will never forget. The lake is surrounded by many villas that house beautiful gardens, art and architecture that are unforgettable. I would go back in a minute.

Mary Christenson – A Carribean cruise with my closest girlfriends when I was much younger! What fun! Good memories of all of us working so hard to be in great shape. Also a family trip to Europe – Paris, Scotland, London – three years ago.

Q: Are you more of an adventurer or a homebody?

Colleen McGauley – Adventurer – without a doubt!

Joanne Briones – This may sound odd for someone in my business, but I’m a homebody. I’ve lived in Bakersfield my whole life and I have a fantastic (and large) family and great friends. I like to work on my house.

Debrah Dutton – I am definitely an adventurer.

Mary Christenson – A little of both. I love to scout out villages, museums, fabric and trim shops, local sites and shop! I also like pool time, relaxing with good books, a little golf, just unwinding as well as dinners with my hubby and friends.

Q: Where are you going on
your next vacation?

Colleen McGauley – I leave next week for seven days at the Mendocino Farmhouse. A lovely Bed and Breakfast owned by a friend. Lots of great golf, relaxation and connecting with a dear friend.

Joanne Briones – This fall I’ll go to San Francisco for the USC vs. Stanford game and my husband will fit in golf at Pebble Beach. Next spring we’ll go to Hawaii and I’m excited about staying at the Four Seasons in Maui. My main focus, though, is a group cruise I’m working on for the fall of 2009 to the Western Mediterranean.

Debrah Dutton – I am going to Las Vegas in a few weeks for a furniture marketing vacation.

Mary Christenson – I’m going to Atlantis, Paradise Island in The Bahamas in July for a national real estate awards conference and I’m taking my family.

Q: Do you vacation every summer?

Colleen McGauley – Not necessarily. I squeeze vacations in and around my annual schedule. I prefer traveling at off-peak times when the crowds are a bit diminished. I don’t mind weather changes, so that’s a plus. It doesn’t ruin my world if it rains or even snows!

Joanne Briones – Yes, I do get to travel extensively. But like most people I don’t take a long, expensive trip all the time. I like to visit the coast and take some long weekends closer to home. I do think it’s important to get away, get refreshed and come home re-energized.

Debrah Dutton – Not necessarily. I travel all through the year and some locations are so overcrowded in the summer months that I prefer smaller trips within California as destinations each summer. Favorite summer locations are Laguna Beach, Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Francisco.

Mary Christenson – Yes! We’ve always done a family vacation to Door County Wisconsin – Sturgeon Bay – every year to visit my husband’s parents and family. I love the long walks around the island, sailing, sunbathing, reading, enjoying homemade cherry pie, rich cherry fudge, fresh salmon, corn on the cob and watching the gorgeous sunsets over the water.

What's new in local medical

It wasn’t long ago when many Bakersfield residents sped to Los Angeles, Santa Barbara or the Bay area for medical treatments in the belief that the local medical community couldn’t handle the problem. Times have most definitely changed.

   “That was when the community had a small number of primary care services and a limited number of specialty services. That era has slowly started disappearing,” says Dr. Ravi Patel, Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center’s medical director and a clinical professor at UCLA. “There are a host of sophisticated modalities which patients can access once you give them an understanding that you can get sophisticated care here. A lot of things done outside of Kern County are now being done right here.”
   Along with the population explosion in Kern County, local hospitals and medical facilities have upped the game over the last decade with high-tech equipment, increased specialty staffing, cutting-edge procedures and state-of-the-art services that now offer just about any kind of medical care a resident might need.
   “I think in most cases, it’s from a lack of education about what our physicians and surgeons have the capability to do,” says Ken Keller, vice president of physician and business development at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. “It’s the attractiveness of an academic center, a name...but most of our physicians and surgeons trained at places like UCLA.”
     Here’s a look at just some of the medical care now available locally or coming soon.

San Joaquin Community Hospital
     San Joaquin Community Hospital Associate Vice President Jarrod McNaughton says the hospital’s new 64-slice CT (computerized tomography) scanner has carved the standard chest scan time from 30 minutes down to about 20 seconds, making it particularly useful for diagnoses of traumas and strokes.
     The scanner also does a CT angiography, enabling physicians to get a noninvasive, 3-dimensional picture of arteries of the heart without poking a probe into the patient for several hours to find clogging and detect heart disease.
The scanner is particularly helpful in making a diagnosis on heavier patients, an increasing problem says Dr. Raymond Zurcher, medical director for the emergency department of SJCH.
     “We can get much better definition and do studies more rapidly on heavier patients that previously could not be done,” he says.
     In January 2008, SJCH opened The Stroke Center, a totally coordinated stroke program with a team of dedicated neurologists, nurses and radiology lab technicians – all on call specifically for stroke cases.
     “That’s important with a stroke because the faster people can get the right medications, the more likely they are to have better outcomes,” McNaughton says.
SJCH is also scheduled to begin building its new burn unit later this year with a 6-bed inpatient ICU and a 2-bed outpatient treatment center. There is currently no burn facility in Kern County geared to handle serious burns and victims are typically flown out of the area for treatment. The burn center will be affiliated with a burn center in Los Angeles and physicians will be trained there.
     “These are tremendous steps for the community, especially the burn center,” says Zurcher. “There has been a great need.”

Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
     Set to improve a new vascular service soon, Keller says BMH’s vascular surgeons are able to insert catheters through small incisions in the patient’s legs to make repairs on aortic aneurisms, malformations of arteries and veins, treatment of peripheral vascular and peripheral artery disease and other conditions. Previously, surgeons would have to cut the patient open from belly to sternum to perform these repairs and what used to be a three or four day stay in the hospital is now sometimes just overnight.
     “Our lead vascular surgeon took six months off, went back and took a mini-fellowship at Stanford...and then had a new vascular surgeon join him and the two can do a tremendous amount of things that were not done and were not available here before,” Keller says.
     BMH also has a hyperbaric and wound-care clinic dedicated to treating and curing long-term wounds. Diabetic patients benefit in particular from this service as do patients experiencing bone infections, the bends, tissue loss, burn poisonings, bed sores or very deep wounds.
     The hyperbaric treatment involves forcing pure oxygen into the wound while the patient is encased in a chamber, speeding up the healing process.
It can also be used for aiding in healing after plastic or reconstructive surgeries says Dr. Vipul Dev, a plastics and reconstruction surgeon who is medical director for BMH’s wound care facility. He says 40-60 percent of his practice involves reconstructive surgeries.
     Dev says he is exceedingly proud that he’s part of offering something that was previously unavailable here.
     “I think it is perhaps particularly rewarding to see that this is what I’m working so hard for...to leave a legacy to this town,” Dev says.
     One of the biggest missing pieces of the Bakersfield medical foundation is about to be put in place. A comprehensive pediatrics program with 24 general beds and 8 pediatric ICU beds is set to launch at BMH next year. Children with complicated medical conditions currently must go to Fresno or another children’s hospital out of the area.

Bakersfield Heart Hospital
     Opening in 1999, Bakersfield Heart Hospital is focused on all things to do with heart health, although the facility does handle other types of medical cases. Over the last several years, the Heart Hospital has incorporated several new procedures to aid those in cardiac difficulty.
     According to Roger Sadberry, marketing and physician relations coordinator, patients with atrial fibrillation can now be treated with a new ablation procedure which utilizes a special device put into the patient via a catheter that maps the heart. This provides a 3-dimensional view that enables physicians to isolate the problem area and restore normal rhythm to the heart.
     “This has been around but hasn’t been popular in Bakersfield until the last year,” he says. “The growth here is phenomenal.”
     Bakersfield patients with heart trouble can now also receive a biventricular pacemaker that is for patients in congestive heart failure. This new type of pacemaker stimulates both sides of the heart, giving it a squeeze. Sadberry said Heart Hospital doctors have been using this device for about one year.
     “Our physicians have been very proactive in implanting these devices,” he says. The device is highly effective at eliminating congestive heart failure.
     Heart Hospital doctors are also now implanting automatic defibrillators. This shocks the heart from the inside, converting it back to a regular rhythm. It is inserted similar to the way a pacemaker is implanted.

Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center
     Bakersfield residents faced with a cancer diagnosis used to flock to Los Angeles medical facilities for treatment, especially if they wanted to be part of a clinical trial that could yield a new cure. But the CBCC’s state-of-the-art medical care makes that unnecessary. Patel says chemotherapy, radiation and imaging, as well as an association with UCLA’s clinical trial program offer everything cancer patients need.
     “We have all the modalities in one single location,” says Patel. “Now they don’t have to go to UCLA. We were the first site UCLA established in the research network.”
     Since about 2003, CBCC has offered stereotactic radiosurgery that precisely targets very deep seated tumors in the brain and can even be done as outpatient surgery. Previously, this type of precision surgery was not available in Bakersfield and now the center does about 15 per year.
     A very sophisticated CT/PET scanner is also utilized now at CBCC which can detect cancer much more effectively, but also takes images and merges it with radiation therapy equipment to more precisely deliver treatment to a tumor.
     “This can be used with most types of cancers – lungs, brain, pancreatic cancers,” says Patel. “It’s a very accurate overlay that allows us to very definitively treat a particular area by not treating a normal tissue and targeting a cancerous area.”

Mercy Hospitals of Bakersfield
     A brand new procedure just rolled out in the past month at Mercy to treat stroke victims. Thrombectomy, a process of threading a type of snare attached to a wire into the head and pulling out a blood clot, will be highly beneficial to stroke victims says Arthur Fontaine, M.D., director of radiology at Mercy Truxtun and Mercy Southwest hospitals.
     The procedure was being done at UCLA but Mercy just did its first thrombectomy this spring and had a successful outcome. Previously, a medicine would have been injected into the brain to dissolve the clot but the victim only had six hours after the stroke in order for that procedure to work. The thrombectomy offers much more time.
      “With the new device you have up to 24 hours,” says Fontaine. “It gives us more options. Sometimes people don’t realize they’ve had a stroke. It may have occurred at night in their sleep.”
     Mercy has also begun to treat cancer patients with an RF ablator, which is a method of “cooking” a tumor inside a body without opening up the body cavity. A small incision is made and a needle, guided with the help of a CT scanner, is inserted into a tumor. The needle is then heated, causing the tumor to virtually cook and burn.
     “This happens with a millimeter needle hole in the patient versus a foot-long scar,” says Fontaine.
     Mercy is also conducting interventional radiology as part of an effort to do minimally invasive surgeries. One such procedure is vertebroplasty, used on compression fractures. A glue is put into the patient’s injury which helps rid them of pain and helps them move again, especially useful in elderly patients with compression fractures from osteoporosis.
     “It helps mobilize them and get them going,” Fontaine says.
Medical experts mentioned organ or bone marrow transplants as one area that Bakersfield does not have the medical ability to perform. Many agree there are still other needs, but overall, medical care in Bakersfield is top notch, making a trip to Los Angeles mostly unnecessary.