mas magazine - december 2009

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04 | MÁS DDeecceemmbbeerr 66,, 22000099

CROSS INTO THE BLUECROSS INTO THE BLUE

RESPECT.

IT’S JUST PARTOF WHATYOU’LL EARNFOR A LIVING. Working for the U.S. Air Force has its

rewards. Respect, for one. Not to

mention a good salary, great benefits,

a quality lifestyle and the chance to

do something important with your

life. All in all it adds up to quite a

benefits package. To find out more, call

1-800-423-USAF or visit airforce.com.

Latino-style latteYour favorite Tres Leches dessert canbe transformed into latte form ... yum!

Olivia Garcia VP/Content [email protected]

Teresa Adamo Associate Editor [email protected]

Matt Muñoz Staff Writer [email protected]

Sandra Molen Staff Writer/Copy Editor [email protected]

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSNOE GARCIA, LISA KIMBLE, DENISE ORNELAS, RAY

PRUITT, DEBORAH RAMIREZ, GABRIEL RAMIREZ,

EDDIE RONQUILLO

DANIELA GARCIA, JOSEPH GOMEZ, JOHN HARTE,

TANYA X. LEONZO, JESSICA MONCRIEF, GREG

NICHOLS, SAVANNAH WOOLEY

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STAFF

ADVERTISINGJaime de los Santos Sales Manager [email protected] 716-8632

CSUB cuts updateProponents for Cal State’s LatinoStudies department are hopeful.

6

10

ON THE COVER: Condy Burdick— who is originally from Panama— teaches Zumba, exercise setto Latin tunes. In our fitness sec-tion, Burdick tells of her journeyto the U.S. and the opportunitiesthat resulted. See story, page 18.

PHOTO BY: Tanya X. Leonzo

Giving back ‘09This season of giving, we profilepeople who give from the heart.

14

Got gifts?Check out our Gift Guide for uniqueregalos with a cultural touch.

8

In stepPanamanian fitness instructor

finds zing in Zumba!

18

CONTENTSD E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9

ARTGlenn Hammett Design Editor

[email protected]

OFFICEMarisol Sorto Office Administrator

[email protected] 716-8640

DDeecceemmbbeerr 66,, 22000099 MÁS | 05

When Decemberarrives, I am oftenreminded of myabuelas, Juanita

and Sophia, both strong mujeresin their own right.

I am fortunate to have mypaternal grandmother, Sophia,in my life. My maternal grand-mother, Juanita, passed away ofcancer when I just started col-lege.

But both have influenced mein many ways.

One area: giving.They always found the means

to put others’ needs before theirown. Their doors were alwaysopen for those seeking advice, a

place to stay or a few extrabucks. They’d drop what theyhad to do in a second to helpsomeone else.

No questions asked. Nofavors in return needed.

Always positive, encouragingwomen, no matter how bad theperson’s situation seemed to be.That’s just how they werewired, and I am fortunate Icarry that in my blood.

It’s probably why I am excit-ed about this issue, which is our“Giving Back” edition.

Inside MÁS, you will readabout people who are makingimpacts through their commu-nity efforts. They include peo-

ple like local businesswomanSylvia Mendez; Manuel Car-rizalez of Stay Focused Min-istries; and Belinda and RobertSingleton of The BakersfieldBurrito Project.

Also inside this issue, we fea-ture our regular line of MÁScolumnists. Ay Mujer, aka Deb-orah Ramirez, asks what ittakes to get through heaven’sgates.

Returning contributingcolumnist Ray Pruitt gives ourreaders tips on holiday safety.

And don’t forget to catch upwith the latest of the HispanicChamber by checking out theirnewsletter that’s inside.

O L I V I A G A R C I A

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A season of giving


EDUCATION

Grad bucks cultural stereotype— Courtesy of CSUB

Growing up in a sin-gle parent house-hold and workingin the fields along-

side her mom, JasmineBanuelos learned the impor-tance of hard work early on.But in opposition to culturalbeliefs that a woman shouldremain at home cooking andcleaning, Banuelos’ motherinstilled in her a desire to goto college.

“My dad left when I was 5years old, so I think mymother knew it was impor-tant for me, as a woman, toshape my own future and bemore independent,” saidBanuelos, who received abachelor’s degree in busi-ness Nov. 30. “It was never aquestion that I would go tocollege and get an educa-tion. It was always a given.”

Despite those desires forher daughter, as sometimeshappens in the teen years,

conflict between Banuelosand her mother forcedBanuelos to move out at age17, while she was stillattending Ridgeview HighSchool. She moved in withher boyfriend, finished highschool and enrolled in Cali-fornia State University,Bakersfield’s College Assis-tance Migrant Program(CAMP).

After she came to cam-pus, Banuelos immersedherself in student life to getthe most out of her collegeexperience. She becameinvolved in MEChA and stu-dent government, workinghard to increase her respon-sibilities and build a net-work of support.

“Marina Avalos-Kegley,student activities director,and Maria Escobedo, CAMPprogram director, havementored me all along andare huge influences on mylife,” Banuelos said.

For the future, Banuelos’immediate goal is simple:

“First, I need a car. I amsaving and should haveenough by February. I havenever had my own vehicle,so I cannot wait,” Banuelossaid. “I will enroll in themaster’s program fall quar-ter and continue workingtoward my goal of impactingothers and leading by exam-ple.”

Banuelos

CSUB’s Latino Studies program getsreprieve — at least for the time beingBy Matt MuñozMÁS staff

As questions about thefuture of the CSUBModern LanguageDepartment continue,

local college educator JoseReyna remains hopeful.

This comes after colleagues,students, alumni and commu-nity members rallied lastmonth after hearing of campusdiscussions to make major cutsin some of the school’s mostpopular programs, includingLatina American Literature,Latin American Studies, andChicano Literature and Span-ish — a program that’s boasted

more than 87 majors in 2009alone.

CSUB officials continue toreview potential cuts needed tomeet an $8.3 million budgetreduction next year.

Although no official decisionhas been made as to whetherSpanish, or other programs orstaffing under the department,will be cut, Reyna said herecently attended a CSU Boardof Trustees meeting in LongBeach to share concerns.

In a letter to the community,Reyna, who is chair and pro-fessor of Spanish at Cal StateBakersfield, wrote:

Recently, “the CSU facultyunion (California Faculty Asso-

ciation) asked (Modern Lan-guage professor) Dr. JoanneSchmidt and me to attend theCSU Board of Trustees meet-ing in Long Beach yesterday tovoice our concerns.

“To paraphrase my talk, Ibegan by reminding them thatKern County is César Chávezcountry, Dolores Huerta coun-try, United Farm Workerscountry. I then emphasized thelarge percentage of Hispanicenrollments in the Kern HighSchool District—schools inBakersfield and surroundingtowns like Arvin, Delano,McFarland, Shafter, Wasco.Hispanic enrollment at ArvinHigh School, for example, is 95

percent. These schools are ourfeeder schools and to close anyuniversity program woulddeny most of these studentsaccess to the ‘comprehensiveregional university’ whichCSUB purports to be,” Reynawrote in the letter.

Since then, Reyna said he’slearned from CSUB adminis-trators that “as of this date, …it appears that our BA programwill not be cut next year—i.e.,no ‘moratorium.’”

However, the fate of theSpanish master’s programremains unclear.

— MÁS Magazine will con-tinue to follow this story as itdevelops.

The Club Latinoamericano willperform “Mi Viuda ya no meLlora” (My Widow No LongerCries For Me) at The SanctuaryTheater, 2336 Van Ness Ave. inFresno.

The play opened Dec. 4 and willcontinue Dec. 11 and 12 at 7 p.m.

This is a Spanish theater pro-duction by Roman Sarmentero,under direction of Maria Mora.

The Club Latinoamericano hasbeen producing theatrical plays inSpanish since 1999. The goalbehind its Drama Arts Committeeis to promote the Spanish theaterproductions in the Central Valley.

“Mi Viuda ya no Llora” is pro-duced in association with ArteAmericas as the main sponsor.

For more information, contactVice President Lina Contreras at(559) 836-7589 or CommitteeChairman Cesar Culqui at (559)917-4873.

Spanish theaterproduction inFresno Dec. 11-12


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EDUCATION

hopeProject 316 reaches out to at-riskyouths & sets them on a better path

By Gabriel RamirezSpecial to MÁS

When Flor Reyesstarted her fresh-man year at ArvinHigh School, she

found herself as an outcast,alone, without any sense of trustand ridiculed by her fellow stu-dents.

This soon led to what Reyesadmits was a bad attitude thatwould eventually get her kickedout of school that first year andplaced into the CommunityLearning Center.

“I thought I was going to endup in the streets or in jail,” saidReyes, now 18, who also coppedto being a “bad girl,” involved insome gang-related matters.

Reyes’ sense of lonelinesscontinued, and so did her nega-tivity on life in general — untilshe met Christine J. Gutierrez-Padilla, an educational associ-ate with the Kern County Super-intendent of Schools.

Gutierrez-Padillaapproached Reyes with anopportunity that would changeher life, though the teenagerstill wasn’t sure about the offer.

“I didn’t trust Mrs. Padilla atfirst, but she never gave up onme,” Reyes said.

Gutierrez-Padilla hookedReyes up with Project 316, aprogram that reaches out to at-risk youth — who are attending

the Community Learning Cen-ter — in an attempt to placethem on a path to a successfulfuture.

Project 316 is managed byVictor Garcia — who foundedthe program in April — andRaully De La Rosa. It wasnamed after the Bible passage,John 3:16, which refers to sec-ond opportunities/chances.

“When I first met Flor, shewas alwayson thedefenseand, manytimes, feltdiscouragedby life’schallenges,”Gutierrez-Padilla said.“However,because ofthe influ-ence as a

mentor that Victor Garcia hadin conjunction with myself, shehad complete encouragement,and was able to regain her senseof hope that she could be suc-cessful ... (She) now has a differ-ent perspective of life and she isempowered with the tools sheneeds to handle the trials andtribulations that we are some-times faced with.”

The combination of thatencouragement and empower-ment motivated Reyes to return

A sense of

“I didn’ttrust Mrs.Padilla atfirst, butshe nevergave upon me.”

— Flor Reyes

Continued on page 13

HolidHolidaay Gift Guidey Gift GuideHoliday Gift Guide


Go global!This holiday season, give a regalo with a Latino twist

By Gabriel RamirezSpecial to MÁS

Yes, it is that time ofyear again, whenBlack Friday, over-crowded stores and

busy streets remind us it’sChristmas.

But to bring the true holidaycheer into our season, wespend more time withfamily, decorate ourhomes and eat tonsof tamales, verdad?

However,as muchas wewant toadmitthat swipingour debit and creditcards isn’t what theholiday season isabout, the realityof it all is that welove to buy giftsfor our familiesand friends.

Buying agift for some-one takestime andthought,unless youare going togo the route of gift cards — andhey, I am guilty of that, too.There is nothing wrong with it.

But if you are tired of thesame old scarf from thedepartment store or the nextelectronic gadget, you mightthink of trying to give some-thing that reflects your culturaor the culture of those you arebuying for.

Let this year be less aboutPrada and more about hand-made bags with the words“Danger Educated Latina” onthem. You can easily turn yourrun-of-the-mill gift into some-thing with fuego and flair.

Here to lend their opinionson what to give to your familiathis year are four local busi-nesses that specialize in giftitems with that cultural twist:

Kuka’s Folk ArtOwner: Ruth DarringtonLocation: 1609 19th St.Phone Number: 325-0000Web site: www.kukasfolkart.comHours: Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,

Saturdays

Item #1: Clay Nativity scenehand made in Ecuador byartist Michael Ayala.

Composed of 10pieces, each piece

is signed by theartist, while thegarments worn by

the figuresrepresent different

parts of Ecuador. Price: $549.99“It symbolizes whatChristmas is about. That’s

why we celebrate it,because of the birth ofChrist.”

Item #2: Milagrocrosses, which aregiven to someone whohas received a miracleor is in need of one.There are many

different kinds.They are made ofwood and iron. Price: $20-$200

“The crosses represent themiracle of the birth ofChrist.”

Item #3:Handbagshandmade inLima, Peru.The bags arehand-embroidered,very colorfuland some havetin flowers thatare hand-painted.

Price: $80-$370“For myself, I always like to buysomething I would like. The bagsare just a good gift to give.”

Casa MartinezOwner: Fernando MartinezLocation: 1609 19th St. (insideKuka’s)Phone Number: 325-0000Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,Saturdays

Item #1: Mariachi banddecorative figures. Thesemariachis are made of clay andare very colorful.Price: $28-$55“Mariachis are always involved inChristmas, and they bring joy toChristmas through their music.”

Item #2: Dining room table withsix chairs. Table and chairs arerustic and are made in Mexicoout of solid wood.Price: $1,200Quote: “It is a gift that wouldbenefit the whole family bybringing them closer together fortheir Christmas dinner.”

Crafts by AmistadOwners: Eva & Joaquin PatiñoLocation: [email protected] Number: 588-0586Web site:www.craftsamistad.com

Item #1: Poster titled “MexicanRevolution of 1910” by Gonzalo J.Plascencia. Poster includes acollage of people involved in theMexican Revolution. 24-by-36inches in color.

Price: $15“The

price is right, and it’s a great wayto commemorate the upcomingcelebration of 100 years of theMexican Revolution in 2010.”

Item #2: Poster titled “Desnuda”by Diego Rivera, colorful imageof Mexican woman’s back withwhite calla lilies in thebackground. 24-by-36 inches.Price: $15“This poster celebrates theMexican culture, done by famousMexican painter Diego Rivera.”

Item #3: Chicana/Latina blackcanvas bag with “DangerEducated Chicana” or “DangerEducated Latina” in front.Price: $15“Empowers women to education.”

Casa Bella Rustic Furniture andDécorOwners: Rosa Orozco & OliviaSanchezLocation: 6721 White LanePhone Number: 833-1800Hours: Tues-Fri, 10 a.m. to 5:30p.m.; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday;11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday.

Item #1: Rustic style potterymade in Mexico.Price: $20-$200“The pottery adds a nice accentto the house and a bit of cultureto your home décor.”

Item #2: Handmade rebozos in avariety of colors. These rebozosmade in Michoacan, Mexico canserve as scarves, sashes or tablerunners.Price: $35“They are a good price and verytraditional.”

Item #3: Hispanic-themed books,which range in topics fromcooking using tequila, how todesign Mexican-style guides andbooks about religion.Price: $15-$50“These books teach a lot aboutculture, religion, food and décor.”

— And finally, a Chicano/LatinoChristmas Bazaar event will take

place Dec. 12-13 atthe Golden StateMall. Hours: 10 a.m.to 7 p.m., Saturday;11 a.m. to 6 p.m.,Sunday.

Handmadehandbags ofPeru at Kuka’sfor $80 & up.

Milagro crosses are availableat Kuka’s for $20-$200

Mariachi fig-ures: $28-$55 at CasaMartinez

HolidHolidaay Sy SafetafetyyHoliday Safety


‘Tis the season for holiday safety tips

The holiday season is aspecial time of year. Itis a time to celebratewith family and friends,

and look forward to the NewYear.

Unfortunately, statistics showthat crime increases during theholiday season. Many peoplebecome hurried, careless andvulnerable, which increasestheir risk of becoming a crimevictim.

Please share the followingtips with family, friends andneighbors. The Kern CountySheriff’s Office wishes you asafe, happy and peaceful holi-day season.

Shopping:1. Stay alert and be aware ofyour surroundings.

2. Park in well lit areas, and

secure your vehicle.

3. Don’t leavepackages and boxesvisible in yourvehicle. Lock themin the trunk.

4. Don’t carry largeamounts of cash.Pay with checks orcredit cards.

5. Keep your purseclose to your body.Put your wallet inyour front pocket.

6. Avoid wearing expensivejewelry.

7. Be aware of strangersapproaching you for any reason.

8. Have your keys ready whenapproaching your vehicle.

9. Ask a store employee toescort you to your vehicle.

10. Use the buddysystem whenshopping, shop witha friend or relative.

Online shopping:1. Only shop withcompanies you arefamiliar with.

2. Make sure thecompany complieswith online securitystandards.

3. Do not respond torequests for your password orcredit card information.

4. Do not respond to onlinesolicitations, you initiate thetransaction.

At home:1. Always keep your homelocked and secured.

2. Leave several lights and atelevision or radio on when youare gone.

3. Do not display presents in awindow where they can be seen.

4. Never give out personalinformation over the phone.

5. Do not allow anybody youdon’t know into your home.

Children:1. If possible, leave children witha baby sitter when shopping.

2. Teach your child to go to astore clerk if they get lost.

3. Never allow children to makeunaccompanied trips to therestroom.

4. Never leave a child in avehicle unattended.

5. Teach your child to never talk

R AY P RU I T T

Ray Pruitt



Traditional Mexican Cuisine We use the freshest ingredients to create the most delicious meals you will ever have. Take a short

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HolidHolidaay Comidy ComidaaHoliday Comida

— Courtesy of Got Milk?

The holidays are just around the cornerand many of us are already thinkingabout how they can make their cele-brations unique, not only with the

dishes they serve but with the drinks as well.While alcoholic beverages are top of mind

during the holidays, two-time National BaristaChampion Heather Perry has partnered withGOT MILK? to give drink enthusiasts anotheroption to toasting the holidays with family andfriends.

Perry’s homemade latte recipes — includ-ing a Tres Leches Latte — are not only eco-nomical compared to ordering drinks fromcoffee houses. The main ingredient in the

lattes, milk, also contains the vitamins andcalcium needed for strong bones, muscles,teeth, hair and nails.

“Lattes are flavorful, festive and easy tomake,” says the 2007 and 2003 United StatesBarista Champ. “Serving lattes during the hol-idays is perfect because they bring comfort toguests as family and friends reminisce onmemories of the past year.”

Perry, a California native, says people don’tneed to spend hundreds of dollars on anespresso machine to make the perfect latte.She says making a strong brewed coffee with acoffee press or moka pot is all that latte enthu-siasts need. Plus, people can easily find thebasic latte ingredients such as coffee, choco-

Tres Leches in latteform … mmm!


National Barista ChampionHeather Perry.


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to strangers, or go anywherewith a stranger, and to tell you ifa stranger bothers them.

6. Teach your child their fullname, address and phonenumber.

Hosting a party:1. Have non-alcoholic beveragesavailable for guests.

2. Serve food.

3. Arrange alternativetransportation for guests who

are drinking.

4. As the host, drink responsibly.

5. Do not allow guests to drive ifthey are intoxicated.

— Ray Pruitt is the CrimePrevention Coordinator for theKern County Sheriff ’s Office. Ifyou would like further informa-tion on holiday safety tips, orare interested in other crimeprevention topics, please con-tact the Kern County Sheriff ’sOffice Crime Prevention Unitat 661-391-7559.

Continued from page 07

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to her regular high school.“I knew I wanted to go back to

high school after talking to Vic-tor,” Reyes said. “Mrs. Padillaand Victor were very supportiveand helped me return to highschool and reach my goal ofgraduating.”

Perhaps the most importantpiece of advice Reyes receivedfrom Victor was to never letanyone pull her down, she said.

Reyes took that advice, and asa result, is now looking into amilitary career with the AirForce.

Also, as a way to “pay it for-ward,” Reyes is using the sup-port she got from Project 316 toensure her nephews stay out oftrouble, too.

Reyes is just one of the manyindividuals that have beentouched and helped by Project316.

It’s hoped that such successstories will continue to spreadthe word of Project 316’s powerto change troubled kids into pro-ductive members of our com-munity.

“I love kids that society callsa challenge,” Garcia said. “Iwanted to provide an atmos-phere where change couldoccur through training, mentor-ing and creating opportunity forhope to grow.”

It’s an opportunity that Gar-cia didn’t receive as a youngperson, though it could havemade the difference for him.

Garcia grew up in east Bak-ersfield and spent nearly halfhis life in prison.

“Every decision seemed tohave a negative effect on all mychoices — then one day, a prisonguard told me that God loved meand gave me a Bible in a prison

cell,” Garcia said. “I read a por-tion that jumped out the pagesthat read (John 14:1-6) ‘Let notyour heart be troubled: believein God, believe also in me. In myFather’s house are many man-sions; if it were not so, I wouldhave told you. And if I go andprepare a place for you, I comeagain, and will receive you untomyself; that where I am, thereye may be also. And whither Igo, ye know the way. Thomassaith unto him, Lord, we knownot wither thou goest; how knowwe the way? Jesus said untohim, I am the way, and the truth,and the life: no one cometh untothe Father, but by me.”

Garcia said the passagechanged the course of his life,and since then, he has commit-ted his life to loving others andhelping others avoid the wrongway.

Helping him on this missionis De La Rosa, project coordina-tor.

“I have always had a passionfor working with at-risk youth,”De La Rosa said.

De La Rosa hopes to see the

program change lives and showpeople that just because theyhave been in trouble, doesn’tmean they can’t change theirpath.

Gutierrez-Padilla is thankfulfor Project 316. She believesthat if programs like it didn’texist, many students would falloff the radar.

“I believe what I do is trulyhelping out children of our soci-ety first and foremost, providinga safe and trusting environment,which leads to establishing atrusting rapport with our stu-dents, Gutierrez-Padilla said. “Ihave worked with many stu-dents in the past three years,and must say that there aresome students who have trulybeen able to see the light, thatthere is hope.”

— If you would like to helpProject 316, you can do so byvolunteering services, spread-ing the word in the communityabout 316 or making a smallcontribution to sustain the pro-gram. For more information,661-872-1184, 661-444-9248 or e-mail: [email protected].

Continued from page 07 “I wanted to providean atmosphere wherechange could occurthrough training,mentoring andcreating opportunityfor hope to grow.”

— Victor Garcia

By Olivia GarciaMÁS staff

There were innocent moments butenough to tremble the world ofSylvia Mendez.

The local businesswoman had put on anice-skating benefit last December to raisemoney for abused and neglected childrenwho were part of the CASA program andJamison’s Children Center. About 300children, separated from their familiesduring the holiday season, were able tospend time with each other and ice skatefor a day.

But the turning moment came whenMendez saw an 8-year-old who spotted herbrother in the crowd. She hadn’t seen himin four months as they had been placed indifferent foster homes with no way to con-tact each other.

Overwhelmed, the little girl rushed overto hug her brother tight, unsure when shewould see him again.

Then, another child tried returning ajacket to Judge John Brownlee after hefinished ice-skating. The boy thanked thejudge for letting him borrow the coat.

No, it’s yours to keep, donated throughthe fundraiser, Brownlee explained.

“Really? I’ve been praying for a jacket,”said the humble boy, who didn’t have ajacket to call his own.

Now he did.And in a way, Mendez now had some-

thing to call her own: It was a mission toexpand this little ice-skating benefit intosomething bigger and grander this year.On Saturday, Dec. 12 at the RabobankArena, Mendez hopes she will be able toreach about 2,800 court-dependent chil-dren. The plan is for them to ice skate fora day, learn from mentors, watch a Con-dors game and just be a kid.

“When you look at it in the largerscheme of things, we only touched 300 kidslast year. That’s not enough when there’salmost 3,000 kids in the system,” Mendezsaid. “I had to raise the bar. (Me and myhusband) believe in mentoring, in makinga difference.You have to inspire.”

As part of her inspiration, she hasformed the new nonprofit group, ChildrenJoining Children for Success in partner-ship with the Condors.

She’s even “recruited” her husband,well-known criminal defense attorneyH.A. (Beto) Sala (well, his free time, if hehas any), and she has enlisted volunteerboard members Dr. Rebecca Rivera, Dr.Dennis Martinez, attorney Silva Lopez,Kern County Deputy District AttorneyWendy Avila and Dee Slade of the African-American Network.

There are three things she needs toaccomplish right away, she says, and sheneeds the community’s help.

First, Mendez is looking for 28 mentorswho overcame a troubled childhood.

The second item off Mendez’s checklistis tracking down owners of the RabobankArena suites. Mendez said she’d like to askif some, or all, of them could donate theirspace Dec. 12, so the mentors can meetwith the children in 20-minute sessions.

Mendez said her childhood — she grewup in a violent home with an alcoholicfather — motivated her for this effort.

“When I was 10, I used to drive mybrothers and sister to the bus stop to get toschool, which was out in the country inDelano,” Mendez said. “My mother wouldleave early to go pick grapes at 5 a.m. and

we would have to fend for ourselves.“Our lives were nothing like the privi-

leged life our children have today,” saidMendez, referring to her daughters. “Myhusband and I have made a pledge that ourchildren will learn to have compassion,tolerance, and be there for children whoneed help.”

The third item is, of course, findingsponsors and selling tickets to the hockeygame. Ticket prices are $10 and $16.

She is currently working with schools,such as Downtown Elementary, Our Ladyof Perpetual Help, and high school foren-sic teams, including Bakersfield Christian,Centennial, Bakersfield, East, Ridgeview,Garces Memorial and South.

“Although the CASA program and Jami-son Center stand to benefit, the participat-ing schools and children’s organizationswill receive a percentage of the proceedsthey raise in ticket sales to help them sup-port their own school programs ...,”Mendez said.

A junior board of the Children JoiningChildren for Success consisting of youthfrom the high school forensic teams, CASAand Jamison Center will be formed. Thegoal is to get the youth to mentor court-dependent children. It’s hoped to create“leadership among our academically suc-cessful youth,” Mendez said.

Meanwhile, Sala says he’s never seenhis wife so determined and focused onhelping children caught in our system.

“You just don’t know when you impact achild,” Sala said.

But you do know when a child impactsyou.

— For more information, e-mail SylviaMendez at:

sylviamendez@ cjcfs.org.Or call 631-2904. The Web site is:

www.cjcfs.org.


GIVING BACK IN 2009

Sylvia Mendez: Turning momentinspires nonprofit group for youths

PHOTO BY CASEY CHRISTIE

H.A. Sala, and his wife, Sylvia Mendez.

GOALS FOR 2010• Expand the nonprofit group, ChildrenJoining Children For Success

• Establish the Junior Board, made upof local youth, for the group

• Count on an even bigger andsuccessful benefit for 2010


Manuel Carrizalez: Focused on saving kidsBy Lisa KimbleSpecial to MÁS

Few in Bakersfield know the depths ofdespair that young people, caught in themenacing grip of gangs and drugs, feel theway Manuel Carrizalez does.

Before the founder of Stay Focused Min-istries turned his life around and surren-dered to his faith, he served hard timebehind bars for what he thought was a lifeon Easy Street — but was actually the meanstreets of drugs and violence.

Hell-bent on not becoming another statis-tic, Carrizalez put his faith into action 19years ago and has saved countless livesalong the way with his renowned ministrythat provides a safety net for youngsters inKern County and across the country. It’s hisway of giving back.

The hallmark of the Stay Focused pro-gram has been its rallies that lure thousandsof at-risk kids. With a captive audience, animpassioned Carrizalez scares themstraight while promising them a faith-woven safety net of hope.

For these kids, Carrizalez knows thattrust is everything.

“We don’t ever break that trust,” he said. Stay Focused has also never left the area.“We are always in the mix of the mad-

ness,” he added. “We have stayed in the

trenches and we haven’t changed. We havestayed true to everything we have said wewould do.”

The ministry’s outreach into the commu-nity is on both small and grand scales.Weekly events and school assemblies areheld to empower youngsters to make posi-tive life choices.

Among the four large outreaches heldeach year was September’s One By Oneevent. An estimated 6,000 people attendedthe event, where 2,500 hot meals werehanded out and 20 tons of groceries weredistributed.

Just three years old, Stay Focused’sReach 4 Greatness mentoring program —kids with one or more incarcerated parent

are matched with a student mentor — nowserves 300 youths, ages 5 to 18 — kids whomight otherwise begin to fall through thecracks.

For Carrizalez and Stay Focused Min-istries, 2009 was another year of making adifference, one life at a time.

For more information, contact StayFocused Ministries at 322-HOPE (4673).

GOALS FOR 2010• Strengthen and build on what hasalready been accomplished inneighborhoods

• Help more kids stay in school

• Continue to do four or more weeklyoutreaches in at least four different areas

• Expand school rallies and Reach 4Greatness program & Thinking 4 Change(T4C) classes

Harley-Davidson riders send-off recruits with style & patriotismBy Joseph Mendez IIISpecial to MÁS

On Nov. 1, several young menand one young girl from differ-ent branches of the armedforces met at the recruiting sta-tion on Panama Lane.

Ben Patton and his ex-mili-tary, Harley-Davidson riding“Band of Brothers/Sisters”arrived to escort these braveyoung recruits. Patton calledeveryone to prayer and madesure that these young men andwomen knew that they were notalone, and their actions to enterservice to protect freedom andthe liberty of all Americans was

much appreciated by Bakers-field residents.

It was a very moving and sadmoment for the parents, grand-parents, sisters and brotherssending their loved ones off totheir respective military bases.We thank Ben Patton and hisHarley-Davidson riders, whomade this sad time into a verypatriotic moment that liftedeveryone’s spirits.

The family of James Vil-laloboz (Marine Corp) wish tothank all the ex-militaryHarley-Davidson riders for giv-ing their time to make theseyoung people and their parentsfeel special and very proud to be

an American. We know our fam-ily — John and Leah Villaloboz— speaks for all the familiesthat were present.

— If you have a homecomingor recruit send-off and want Ben

Patton and his organization toextend a military welcome orescort, you can reach him at theHarley-Davidson dealership ofBakersfield, 661-325-3644.

PHOTO BY JOSEPH GOMEZ

COURTESY PHOTO

From left: Ben Patton and James Villaloboz.


GIVING BACK IN 2009

The Singletons: Burritos for the homeless fill stomachs & soulsBy Matt MuñozMÁS staff

Belinda and Robert Singletonare out to help Bakersfield’shomeless, one burrito at a time.

As the founders of The Bak-ersfield Burrito Project, theirpassion for giving back is a partof everyday life. Formerlyinvolved with another localhomeless food project, Food NotBombs, the Singletons set out tostart a new Sunday mission.

“I’ve been feeding homelesspeople for the past two years,”said Belinda. “It’s like secondnature to me now. I found outabout the ‘LA Burrito Project,’and thought it would be good forBakersfield, too. We have noagenda, religious or politicalaffiliations. We just want to feedpeople.”

This local Burrito Projectbegan in July and the distribu-tion usually begins at Central

Park, though volunteers nowalso venture to areas wherelocal homeless people live andhide from the public.

The Singletons accept publicdonations of uncooked pintobeans, rice and other staplefoods. Busily preparing theingredients on Saturday nights,Sunday mornings are all aboutthe “burrito assembly line,”building the meals for free dis-tribution.

Tortillas and foil wrap are thegroup’s only small, out-of-pock-

et expense.“We do have volunteers who

help,” she explained. “We’vehad two, four, up to 20 peoplefill and wrap burritos before wehead out.”

After their transports are full,it’s off to sections of the city toset up shop: a portable table andIgloo drink container filled withiced tea.

Meeting with regulars andanyone in need of a meal, thecouple — along with theirhelpers — know the importanceof keeping bellies full.

Humbled by what they’ve col-lectively experienced, the Sin-gletons plan to keep the freeoperation going strong.

“Everyone gets hungry,” saidRobert. “It doesn’t matter whythey’re homeless to us. It’s allabout giving.”

— For more information, goto: www.myspace.com/bakers-fieldburritoproject

GOALS FOR 2010• Expand the project toinclude free clothing whenavailable

• Grow the team ofvolunteers

• Continue the mission ofgiving

Mike Vallejo: Gardener cultivates kindnessBy Deborah RamirezSpecial to MÁS

It’s seven o’clock on a Christ-mas morning and you’ll findMike Vallejo, his family andclose friends on the corner ofBaker and Sumner streets — notdue to circumstance, butbecause it’s his gift to those lessfortunate.

For 14 years, and at his ownexpense, Mike, his family andfriends have provided breakfastfor the homeless, having servedsome 3,500 people over theyears.

“It started with me and JessieSepulveda just wanting make anice Christmas for people nothaving the same as us. Now, it’smy family’s tradition. Everyone(local community) helps out, butno one’s doing anything onChristmas morning. Before my

family opens our presents, wegather a traditional Christmasmorning — Mexican breakfast,clothes, toys, and candy to taketo give away. We don’t adver-tise; we just show up to feed andgive to people,” said Mike, afather of seven and grandfatherof seven.

He’s a man who doesn’tmince words and shies awayfrom accolades. He owns a locallandscape and gardening busi-ness with a long list of clientswho appreciate his commit-ment, hard work and some-times, even his humor.

In 2006, he was diagnosedwith liver cancer.

“You know, it’s been hard, butnot as hard as others have it, soit’s not that bad,” Mike said.

In 2009, he’s most proud thathe battled his cancer to the pointof being healthy enough to

marry his longtime love, Moni-ca, alongside many belovedfamily and friends as well as hisloyal and spoiled dogs, Bowserand Pixie.

In 2010, his goal is to main-tain his health and to take careof his family.

“I got what I need. I don’tneed any more than that,” hesaid.

— For anyone wishing to helpwith the Vallejo Family BakerStreet Christmas Morning Break-fast for the Homeless, you cancontact Mike at (661) 979-3049.

GOALS FOR 2010• Stay healthy

• Take care of his family

• Continue feeding thehomeless

PHOTO BY SAVANNAH WOOLEY

PHOTO BY JESSICA MONCRIEF


Jose Arredondo: Charity workimmune to tough economyBy Lisa KimbleSpecial to MÁS

2009 has not been a banneryear for giving back in somesectors of Kern’s businesscommunities.

So no one would blame localauto dealers like Jose Arredon-do of Delano Family Motors fordrastically scaling back theirgiving during an economyespecially challenging for cardealerships across the country.

But despite tough times thathave tightened belts communi-ty-wide, for Arredondo — alongwith his brother, Sergio andsister, Laura, co-owners ofDelano Family Motors anddealerships in Bakersfield —charity work is business asusual, just as it has been for 17years.

From scholarships to foodgiveaways, though supply anddemand have never been moreout of sync, the family businesshas not strayed from its singu-lar philanthropic goal of givingback.

In homage to their Mexicanroots, the Arredondos againthis year provided weeklylunches to Delano and McFar-land farmworkers from Maythrough October. Every week,hundreds would line up to passunder a small canopy andreceive food provided by theArredondos and their dealer-ship.

The family members, whohail from Coalcomán, Michoa-can, Mexico, easily recall thepangs of hunger that poverty intheir native Mexico brought —a memory that serves as moti-vation to help others.

The Arredondos’ Thanksgiv-ing dinners and annual harvestcelebrations in the North KernCounty community alsoextended their commitment tohelping farmworkers as theydid years ago in the San Fer-nando Valley, when they col-

lectively vowed to earn enoughmoney to retire their motherfrom cleaning houses.

“In the end, just being therefor others and being able tomake a difference in their livesis what all this is about,” JoseArredondo said.

Equally gratifying and satis-fying to Arredondo was thisyear’s gun-return programwith the Delano Police Depart-ment. The gun-cash exchangeprogram back in January rangup a $20,000 tab Arredondosays he was more than glad tocover.

After 17 years of giving backto the community, not a weekgoes by that Arredondo doesn’tencounter someone whose lifehas been affected by his gen-erosity.

“It is so gratifying to hearhow I have impacted their livesthrough the scholarships wehave given out over the years,”he said. “We are going to con-tinue to contribute in everyway possible, on any level tothose less fortunate.”

GOALS FOR 2010• Continue SummerHarvest lunches

• Continue & expand gun-return program

• Expand outreachprograms in Delano

By Matt MuñozMÁS staff

When it comes to education,Maria Delgado’s motherlyinstincts shine brightly.

As a Founding Mother andCampus Adviser for CSUB’sTheta Sigma Chi Latina Sorori-ty, communication is her key tobeing an effective teacher.

But overseeing a tight-knitgroup of intelligent young Lati-nas is just one part of Delgado’smission in helping to keepthose seeking higher knowl-edge on the right path — on andoff the campus.

“We’re not your traditionalsorority,” explained Delgado ofTheta Sigma Chi’s functionaway from the national univer-sity set. “We do a lot of differ-ent types of activities, but keepeverything inside our commu-nity.”

Atop the list of the list of“giving back” activities is thesorority’s annual Latina YouthConference. Held each springat CSUB, the conference fea-tures inspirational guest speak-ers from all over the nation.

“We talk about issues rang-ing from health, volunteering,to communication, amongother important topics relevant

in the Latino community,” Del-gado said.

Since the successful confer-ence requires funding to organ-ize, Delgado and the sistersraise money the old-fashionedway: selling tamales.

“Our annual tamale sellingdrive helps us to make moneyfor yearly activities,” she said.“A lot of hardworking peopleand effort goes into keepingthings going, plus we havefun.”

Delgado stresses thatalthough they don’t discrimi-nate against gender for confer-ence attendees, she knows thatLatinas often face the biggestbarriers. She believes thisproblem is due, in part, to mis-communication between par-ent and child — the value of acollege education may not becompletely comprehended.

It is through the annual con-ference Delgado hopes tobreak down traditions detri-mental to their sisterhood, sothat they can one day give backto this community as well.

“As educators, it’s often hardto reach a student,” sheexplained. “Parents need tounderstand the message, toensure the importance of high-er education is passed on.”

Maria Delgado: KeepingLatinas on the right path

GOALS FOR2010• Develop newway to reachstudents in need

• More sororityrecruiting efforts

• Spread LatinaYouth Conferenceawareness PHOTO BY SAVANNAH WOOLEY

PHOTO BY HENRY A. BARRIOS

&By Deborah RamirezSpecial to MÁS

On an early Saturday morning, theline begins to form 30 minutesbefore class.

As time nears the start of class, thereare so many waiting to get in, you can’tmove across the room without bumpinginto someone.

“Good morning, good morning, I have anew CD for you today. You’re going to loveit,” says the energetic, petite-sized Zumbainstructor, Condy Burdick.

Zumba markets itself as, “Ditch theworkout, join the party!” and has become apopular fitness craze.

Zumba began purely by accident in thelate 1990s, when celebrity fitness trainer“Beto” Perez showed up to teach aerobicswithout his exercise music so he grabbedwhat he played in his car — Latin dancemusic.

For class that day, Beto combined avariety of Latin dance steps with his regu-lar exercise routine and his students lovedit so much, Zumba was born.

Currently, there are more than 30,000certified trainers in 35 countries and wehave one of the best right here in our ownbackyard — Burdick, a charming 38-year-old Latina mother of three, who knowshow to energize her students.

Her students couldn’t agree more.“I’ve never seen her with no energy or

not want to help someone improve them-selves,” said Monica Cantu.

Angelica Moreno, a regular Zumbaclass attendee and soon-to-become Zumba

instructor, added:“She has it so together. I don’t know how

she does. I just hope to be like her oneday.”

Originally from Panama City, Panama,Burdick arrived in the U.S. at the age of17, shortly after Operation Just Cause, theUnited States invasion of Panama.

As the youngest child of a large familia,she was sent to live with a sister in Mary-land because “ the (Panamanian) govern-ment closed my school.”

She recalls that the invasion “wasn’t agood thing but necessary.”

Burdick goes on to say that Panamani-ans remember the U.S. invasion withmemorials and media coverage recountingthe historical day, much like the U.S.recounts historical days that changed the

lives of the country’s people. One good thing that came out of the

invasion was that former general and themilitary dictator, Manuel Noriega went tojail, but “now, the bad is he’s getting out,”she said.

Not long after arriving in Maryland, shemoved with her sister’s family to Hawaii,where she completed high school andearned a full ride scholarship to BrighamYoung University, Hawaii, graduating witha bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.

“When I came to the U.S., I didn’t speakany English. I had to learn quickly,” shesaid.

Learning English allowed her to pursueher passion, fitness.

“I get so much energy from helping oth-ers get out of their comfort zones and


FITNESS

Fitfabuloso!

Panamanian Zumbainstructor grateful foropportunities here in

Bakersfield

PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO

Condy Burdick’s passion is fitness. She has a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology.


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3 different styles of chow mein:

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achieve their fitness goals,” shesaid. “I want to help other peo-ple feel good about themselvesand teaching fitness is the bestway.”

While in college, she met herhusband and after having theirfirst child, they moved to Cali-fornia, where she used herdegree to work as a lactationcounselor assisting breast-feed-ing moms.

“This was the best job for mebecause after having my secondchild, who was severely autistic,I was able to work at home whilestill doing what I liked to do —help people,” she said.

In 2007, Burdick and her fam-ily — now three boys, Aaron,Anthony, and Austin — movedto Bakersfield because itoffered the benefits of nearbyfamily and good programs forchildren with autism.

“It was stressful to have threeyoung children, one withautism, and no help around. Iwas stretched to my limit. Iknew this wasn’t a good situa-tion for my family. I needed tofind a good program for Antho-

ny, good schools for Aaron andAustin, and be able to work out-side of my home. Bakersfieldhad this for me, and you don’tunderstand how thankful I am,”she said.

Burdick’s motivation comesfrom the inspiration she getsfrom her 81-year-old motherand 85-year-old father, who stillreside in Panama.

“Honestly, I don’t have ener-gy for doing laundry, but Ialways have energy for fitness,family and friends,” she said.

Not too long ago, she lost oneof her three brothers to lungcancer and one of her nine sis-ters just had a heart transplantand will soon have a kidneytransplant.

In December, Burdick plansto have a two-hour Zumbafundraiser to help her sister payfor the cost of her organ trans-plants.

“I don’t want her to worryabout the money; I want her toget well,” she said. “My sistermeans so much to me. I’m hop-ing my community will comeout and help me.”

A goal for 2010 is to have herown workout studio.

Until then, she works inde-pendently as a personal trainer,a Zumba and spin instructor intown and has started a pay-as-you-go Zumba class on Thurs-day mornings at Studio 9 onEaston Drive.

She also gives a 45-minutecardio only class for low-incomewomen Friday mornings atStiern Park.

“They pay what they can andthat’s usually a dollar, but that’sOK because I’m helping, andthey’re feeling better aboutthemselves,” she said.

PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO

Burdick leads an energetic Zumba session.

ZO


The

NetworkKern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce December 2009www.kchcc.org

SAVETHE DATE

DEC. 9Kern CountyHispanic Chamberof Commerce

Holiday MembershipAppreciation Mixer

@ The Nile

1721 19th St.

5:30 -7:30 p.m.

(661) 633-5495

DEC. 25Merry Christmas

Chamber officeclosed

DEC. 31New Year’s Eve

Please drivecarefully

JAN. 1, 2010HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Chamber officeclosed

FEB. 6,2010KCHCC Installation& Awards Banquet

DoubleTree Hotel

3100 Camino DelRio Ct.

6 p.m. Cocktail Hour

7 p.m. Dinner

8 p.m. Awards andDance

— Courtesy of the KCHCC

It was all fun and golf, asthe popular Kern Coun-ty Hispanic Chamber ofCommerce Golf Tour-

nament returned this year.The event was held at the

Sundale Country Club andover 25 teams participated.Everyone had a great time,food and drinks were excel-lent and the weather couldn’thave been better. Proceedsfrom the tournament gotoward the business andmembership services of thechamber.

The Hole-In-One wassponsored by the FamilyAutomotive, other tee-spon-

sors included First Mort-gage, Chevron, Dreyer’sGrand Ice Cream, GoldenWest Casino, Edward Jones,Gotta-Go-Bailbonds, GemCare, Ranch Market, Hill-crest, State Farm, KBAK,Kern Schools Federal CreditUnion, the Margarita Man,Anthem Blue Cross, andMiragrafx.

Event sponsors were:Wells Fargo Bank, MÁSMagazine, KERO23,AZTECA 42, KGET 17, Tele-mundo KKEY 11, Univision39, Chevron, State Farm,AT&T, Golden West Casino,Tejon Ranch, Brighthouse,Los Molcajetes, and BillLee’s Bamboo Chopsticks.

All fun & sun at greatKCHCC golf tourney!

First Place — Univision: Robert Mendez, Jim Valencia,William Garfield, Mike Carfet

Second Place — Blue Cross: AnthonyMorales, Andrea Franco, Paul Ochoa,Cameron Harper

Third Place — George Chavez, RobertZuniga Sr., Raul Castillo, Pepe Morales

PHOTO BY JOE SERRANO




09

KERN COUNTY HISPANICCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Dear Members and Friends,

Are you all ready for tamales, posole and greatmemories? Well, that’s what comes with theHoliday Season around my familia and I surelook forward to all of it!

Our November Mixer was hosted by the DoubleTreeand what a turnout we had! Thank you goes to ToddSimons, Josie Martin and their team at the DoubleTreefor doing an outstanding job and making it a great event!

In case you missed the mixer, weannounced our 2010 Board ofDirectors. Congratulations to allthose coming aboard!

Coming up in December, youwill all want to mark your calen-dars for our holiday memberappreciation mixer at The Nile.You won’t want to miss that one!And right around the corner,after the first of the year, we willbe back at the DoubleTree for our2010 Board Installation Dinner.The theme will be in honor of our

25th Anniversary ... that’s right, 25 years! Our Chamberwas established in 1985, and we are all looking forward tocelebrating our milestone with all of you, so get ready fora great evening of fun and excitement. Sponsorship infor-mation and table reservations will soon be out.

As I wrap-up, all I can say right now is ... what a year!Thank you all for your support, your generosity and par-ticipation with the KCHCC in 2009. I can’t begin to tellyou how much it is appreciated! We have one moremonth in the year, so why don’t we finish it off the way westarted it ... together with friends and strong to the end!

So let’s toast in 2010 and all of the new challenges andopportunities it may bring to all of us. Merry Christmasand Happy New Year!

Joe JimenezChairman of the BoardKern County Hispanic Chamber of CommerceChain | Cohn | Stiles

Letter from the chairman

Anthem Blue CrossContact: Shirley Franco11308 Champion AvenueBakersfield, CA 93312(661) 829-2642 (888) 370-1421

BakersfieldCarriages/Maryann’s CountryContact: Maryann 18940 Palm AvenueBakersfield, CA 93314(661) 589-4435

Christy’s Brundage Florist,LLC Contact: Ompaul Dosanjh 3050 Brundage LaneBakersfield, CA 93304(661) 323-7924

J.J. Leon Construction, Inc.Contact: Johnny Leon

P.O. Box 118Grover Beach, CA 93483 (805) 489-8925

Marty Paaren InsuranceServices, Inc.Contact: Marty Paaren327 Chester AvenueBakersfield, CA 93301 (661) 324-6368Toll free (866) 577-2566

Plaza Iglesia CristianaContact: Cesar Salazar2600 Wilson RoadBakersfield, CA 93304(661) 374-4415

TeleNetworksContact: Michael Fisher6551 Lowry StreetBakersfield, CA 93307 (661) 472-8278

Thank you to our membership renewalsand welcome to our newest members.We appreciate your support.

• Alzheimer’s Disease Association

• California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

• Chevron Corporation

• Oasis Air Conditioning

• Mercado Nuevo (MÁS Magazine)

• Mid State Development Corporation

• Terrio Therapy

• WestCare California

RENEWALSThank you for renewing your membership!

NEW MEMBERS JULY 2009

For moreinformation

visit: www.kchcc.orgor call the KernCounty HispanicChamber ofCommerce office at 633-5495.

KCHCC BOARD

Mission Statement:

To create, promote and enhancebusiness opportunities for ourmembership and providebusiness, cultural and resourcelinkages with emphasis on theHispanic community.

2009 Executive Board

CHAIRMAN: Joe Jimenez

VICE-CHAIR: Jay Tamsi

TREASURER: Jesse Bonales

SECRETARY: Jan Bans

CHAIR-ELECT: Ramona Herrera

PAST-CHAIR: Fernando Aguirre

Adam Alvidrez

Adriana Lopez

Chris Bernal

David Alanis

Donna Hermann

Fran Trevino

Hilary Baird

Joe Serrano

Michael Urioste

Ruben Gonzales

2009 Board of Directors


— Courtesy of KCHCC

Nearly 100 people attended thechamber’s annual General Mem-bership meeting and businessmixer in November. The meeting

was held at the DoubleTree Hotel located at3100 Camino Del Rio Court. An excellentpresentation of a variety of appetizers,desserts and refreshments were served allcatered by the DoubleTree.

Chairman of the Board, Joe Jimenez,facilitated the meeting and extended awarm welcome to everyone. He introducedthe members of the Board of Directors thatwere present, and introduced Todd Simons,Director of Sales and Marketing of Double-Tree. Simons also welcomed everyone,introduced his staff, and spoke of theirmany hotel accommodations and services.Jimenez then introduced Ramona Herrera,the incoming Chair for 2010 who, in turn,announced the Board of Directors for 2010.

In accordance with the chamber bylaws,a General Membership meeting is heldonce a year in November to report to themembers and announce the ExecutiveBoard and Board of Directors for next year.We encourage everyone to save the date —Saturday, Feb. 6 for the 2010 Installationand Business Awards Banquet at the Dou-bleTree Hotel.

DoubleTree Hotel Bakersfield HistoryIn October 1983, the property opened as

the Red Lion Hotel Bakersfield. A privatelyheld Hotel Company, Red Lion owned andmanaged 53 properties in the Northwesternregion of the United States. Red Lionbrought to Bakersfield a new standard inhotel and dining unlike any hotel in the city.The first full-service hotel to open in sometime, the Red Lion offered 262 oversizedrooms, two restaurants (Lobby Bar, Misty’sLounge) and the largest banquet facilitiesin the city.

In 1996, Red Lion took the hotel publicand ventured in the Stock Exchange to raisecapital and build the brand. This didn’t lastlong, for DoubleTree Hotels recognized thevalue in the Red Lion Brand and acquiredthe hotel chain, bringing DoubleTree tohave properties from ‘Coast to Coast.’ Thistoo was short lived for, in 1997, PromusHotel Corporation, with property flags toinclude the Harrison Conference Centers,Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, HamptonInn & Suites, Homewood Suites acquiredthe DoubleTree Hotels. In 1999, Hilton

acquires Promus Hotel Corporation,expanding its portfolio to nearly 1,700hotels in the United States. The Hilton Fam-ily of brands includes Hilton Hotels, Con-rad Hotels, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites,Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inns, HiltonGrand Vacations, Homewood Suites byHilton and the Waldorf Astoria Collection.

On July 29, 2004, Hilton Hotels Corpora-tion sold the DoubleTree Hotel Bakersfieldto Integrated Capital, LLC. Integrated Capi-tal contracted with Hilton Hotels Corpora-tion to manage the property.

In 2005, Integrated Capital added manyfeatures to the property during the first of amulti-phase renovation project. With aninvestment of $4 million, this phase includ-ed high-speed Internet access in all of ourguest rooms, Sweet Dreams® by Double-Tree Sleep Experience which in addition toStandard amenities also feature extendedwork desk with task lighting, refrigerators,deluxe bath amenities and alarm clock withMP3 connectivity. Guests can enjoy world-class entertainment and information withtheir new Lodgenet system. Expanded tele-vision lineup features two CNN channels,three ESPN channels, TNT, USA, HBO,interactive games and more.

In 2007 Integrated Capital invested anadditional $1 million dollars to renovatetheir public meeting space. The Double-Tree Ballroom is 7,560 square feet and canaccommodate up to 1,000 attendees. Thisroom can be divided into three equal parts

and be arranged to fit any meeting configu-ration. Their public space also features upto six, breakout rooms. The hotel has aunique “Courtyard Gazebo,” which is usedprimarily for wedding ceremonies.

Bed and Breakfast OfferA dreamy getaway is yours with their

Bed and Breakfast offer. Upon arrival, youwill be welcomed with a warm chocolatechip cookie from their attentive staff.Guests will enjoy their refreshing Double-Tree experience throughout their stay —plus a delicious breakfast each morning.

Sweet Romance GetawayThere’s no time like the present to rekin-

dle romance. Escape to breakfast in bed,sparkling wine on ice and deluxe accommo-dations with this romantic weekend get-away package from DoubleTree.

Weddings at DoubleTreeWith Doubletree, planning your wedding

is simple and stress free. From booking ablock of guest rooms to creating the ceremo-ny of your dreams, DoubleTree is dedicatedto providing you with personalized attentionand superior service. Relax and enjoy yourfairy tale wedding. DoubleTree vows to helpmake it perfect. Learn more about planningyour wedding at Doubletree.

Book your next wedding, celebration,event or a comforting room at the Double-Tree Hotel by contacting 323-7111 or visittheir Web site at: www.doubletree.com.

DoubleTree Mixer a hit!


DoubleTree Executive Staff




By Fernando AguirreKCHCC Past Chair

East BakersfieldCommunity Col-laborative is a

grassroots collaborativemade up of residents,business owners, non-profits, churches, law-enforcement personneland schools workingtogether to improve theEast Bakersfield Com-munity.

One of the main collab-orative events each yearis to help provide aThanksgiving dinner toresidents in the commu-nity during the Thanks-giving Holiday. From itsfirst year, the event hasprovided meals to hun-dreds of residents eachyear with 600 mealsserved last year.

Six years ago, theRotary Club of Bakers-field East provided thefunding for all the mealsserved and has continuedits support of the eventeach year since.

This year, the KernCounty Hispanic Cham-ber of Commerce joinedthe East BakersfieldCommunity Collabora-tive and its many commu-nity partners in makingthis a successful event.The event was on Nov. 21the Boys and Girls Clublocated at 801 Niles St.

The chamber was hon-ored to be a part of thiscollaborative effort.

Year-end planningfor business ownersBy Jose GuerreroKCHCC member

It is not uncommon for business owners tofrantically call their accountants and attor-neys the week between Christmas and NewYear’s in an effort to minimize their tax

burden for the current taxable year. Unfortu-nately, this is often a call placed too late.

While business and tax planning should bedone periodically year-round, the beginning ofthe fourth quarter is not a bad place to begin. So,what should you do?

Good dataIt starts in your own accounting department.

It is critical to have good systems and processesin place to quickly and accurately deliver reli-able information to your accountant. Too often, abusiness owner will deliver the proverbial “shoebox” of receipts, and that simply will not beenough. The more accurate the informationdelivered, the better the advice you will get.

Seek the advice of a professionalIn the age of TurboTax and other self-help

resources, it is easy to attempt to navigate thisprocess on your own. However, this year is par-ticularly confusing in terms of what tax benefitsthe legislators are enacting, extending or sun-setting. Seeking the assistance of a qualified taxadviser is important.

Before you arrive at your adviser’s office,develop a list of questions and issues you wouldlike considered. For example, are you thinkingabout buying another business to help you grow,or merging with a competitor in an effort to sur-vive? These questions should be part of your dis-cussions since the answers will certainly havetax implications for your business.

Take advantage of generous 2009business tax breaks

Several favorable business tax provisionshave a limited shelf-life requiring action takenbetween now and year-end. The following areexamples that may be relevant to you:

• Larger Section 179 Deduction. Your busi-ness may be eligible for the temporarilyincreased Section 179 deduction. Under Section179, an eligible business may be able to claimfirst-year depreciation write-offs for the entirecost of new and used equipment and softwarepurchases. For tax years beginning in 2009, the

maximum deduction is $250,000. Unless Con-gress takes further action, this benefit may notbe available in 2010. Note that various limita-tions and exceptions apply to the Section 179deduction privilege.

• Fifty Percent First-year Bonus Deprecia-tion. Your business may also be able to claimfirst-year bonus depreciation equal to 50 per-cent of the cost of most new (not used) equip-ment and software acquired and placed in serv-ice by the end of 2009. This bonus depreciationbenefit is scheduled to expire at year-end unlessCongress takes further action.

More traditional tax planning strategies maybe used in any given year

• Defer Income. Depending on your circum-stances, it may be wise to defer some taxableincome from this year into next, especially if youexpect to be in a lower tax bracket in 2010. Forexample, if you are in business for yourself and acash-method taxpayer, you can postpone taxableincome by waiting until late in the year to sendout some client invoices. That way, you won’treceive payment for them until early 2010.

• Prepay Expenses. You can also postponetaxable income by accelerating some deductiblebusiness expenditures into this year. For exam-ple, businesses may be able to prepay some orall of its 2010 rent, workers’ compensation pre-miums and other expenses. Be careful with thisstrategy because not all prepaid expenses quali-fy for full deduction in 2009.

• Charitable Contributions. If you give to aneligible charity (i.e. a 501(c) (3) organization),your contribution will be 100 percent deductiblefrom state and federal taxable income.

The last thing anyone wants is an unexpectedtax bill. Being proactive will help you avoid thisproblem and allow you and your advisors time tothink through the potential ramifications of yourdecisions, also giving you the opportunity toenjoy that week between Christmas and NewYear’s!

— José A. Guerrero is a partner with the lawfirm of Klein, DeNatale, Goldner, Cooper, Rosen-lieb & Kimball, LLP. His practice focuses on busi-ness counseling and transactions for clients inthe California Central Valley. Mr. Guerrero is amember of KCHCC and speaks Spanish fluently.

Note: The information provided in this articleis for informational purposes only and is notintended to replace the advice of a qualified taxadviser.

KCHCC joinsThanksgivingmeal event


LA VIDA

A promise fulfilled to La Virgen de GuadalupeBy Vicki AdameSpecial to MÁS

There’s a saying, undicho, in Mexico:

“Si no crees en la Vir-gen de Guadalupe, no

eres en realidad Mexicano.” (Ifyou don’t believe in the Virginof Guadalupe, you aren’t trulyMexican.)

Last year I fulfilled unamanda, a promise I had made toLa Morenita. I had promised herI would thank in her person ifshe would intercede on mybehalf. I had asked her help sothat someone I knew would begranted a work visa so he couldleave his country. I made mypetition with a novena inNovember 2006. And on Dec. 30,2006 he was aboard a plane, exitvisa in hand.

So, now I had a promise tofulfill, which I did, although it

took me two years due tounforeseen circumstances.

I arrived in El Distrito FederalDec. 10, following an overnightflight from San Francisco. I hadintended to visit the BasilicaDec. 12, the anniversary of themiracle of Tepeyac, but aftertalking with a couple I met at theGuadalajara airport while wait-ing for a connecting flight, Idecided to go on the 11th.

Good thing, too, for what Iencountered at the Basilica wasbeyond anything I could haveimagined.

With the streets surroundingthe Basilica closed to vehicletraffic, the taxi driver droppedme off a few blocks away. Iwalked the four or so blocks tothe Basilica.

I made my way among thecountless souvenir stands,which sold everything fromrosaries to T-shirts to images,

both painted and sculpted, of LaVirgencita.

Finally, I emerged from thestands and joined the throngs ofpeople slowly winding their wayup the road to the main entranceof Tepeyac, the hill on which theBasilica was built.

When I finally steppedthrough the open gates I wasawestruck, everywhere my gazefell were peregrinos. The major-ity carried paintings or statuesof La Morenita.

I made my way into the cathe-dral that is home to JuanDiego’s tilma with the image ofla Virgen de Guadalupe,patroness of Mexico and all theAmericas.

The church was packed. Tak-ing a spot in the back, I decidedto stay for the Mass. During thistime of year, Masses are heldevery hour. Young girls walkaround with baskets filled withsmall cards bearing the imageof the La Virgen, which are soldfor 10 pesos.

When the Mass ended, Ijoined the never-ending sea ofhumanity that shuffled towardthe front of the church to payhomage to La Virgen.

It took more than an hour to

reach the front of the church,which was covered in red roses— gifts brought by the faithful.Before I knew it, I was gettingready to step onto one of five orso people-movers that slowlypass in front of the image of LaVirgen with the Mexican flagdraped below it.

As I gazed up at her, I could-n’t help but remember how myPapa Nato would send money tothe Basilica every December.He would also send a “gift”whenever he asked for herintervention.

I silently thanked her for allshe has done for me, and toldher this would not be my lastvisit. I snapped a few photosbefore stepping off the people-mover.

I spent the entire day on thegrounds of the Basilica de SantaMaria de Guadalupe. Tepeyac ishome to the new Basilica, laBasilica Antigua — which, dur-ing my visit, was undergoingrenovation and shrouded in scaf-folding — and numerous otherchapels as well as numerousstatues. All of it awe-inspiring.

But what struck me mostwere the people. The majority

PHOTO BY VICKI ADAME

A people-mover vehicle passes slow enough in front of the image ofLa Virgen that you can get a photo of her and the Mexican flag.



KING LEOS SPECIAL Purchase Any Extra Large Pizza At Regular Price And Receive A Large Pizza With One Topping For Just

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Ay Mujer, you don’t getinto heaven for beingstupid and that’s on goodauthority. I was fortu-

nate to teach in a Catholicschool and also attend aCatholic university, so I wasprivileged to have opportunitiesto speak with men of the cloth,women of devotion, and thosecommitted to the writings,philosophies, and beliefs of theBible. I’ve often struggled withGod’s reasons and truthfully,while having to accept His wis-dom because in remaining sanethat’s all I’m left to do, I’ve oftenbeen disappointed in God. Yes, aconfession on my part, but it’snot a sin to be disappointed inGod, or I don’t think so ...

What I do know in all of myconversations with those whoknow much more than I on the

topic of God is that you don’tneed to be a rocket scientist toget through heaven’s gates, butyou do need enough smarts toknow when you’ve done some-

thing wrong. I was once asked ifI know what I’m going to saywhen I reach the Pearly Gates.At the time and age, I could onlythink to say, “I’m sorry.” Butnow, I’ve prepared a disserta-tion on the reasons why I shouldbe allowed through the gates.And so, as we enter Jesus is theReason for the Season, I beganto wonder about those who justdon’t “get it.” Where do they go— hell, purgatory, limbo —exactly where? Maybe I shouldqualify “those” — they’re peo-ple who use the Bible to thumpother people over the head whenthey believe you’re actingimmoral, but then use God tojustify their own poor behavior.Stupid!

When this happens, CarlosMencia goes off in my head, say-ing “I’m not stupid too?” Maybe

I’m just overly influenced by myWelita because she’d tell methat there are more people sit-ting in the pews on Sundaymorning that are hypocritesthan true followers. She basedher observation on the fact thatshe came from a very smallTexas town where many of thetown’s people would go out thenight before to smoke, drink,gamble and carouse, then showup at Mass the next morning,acting as though they hadn’tdone a thing wrong just hoursbefore.

But strangely, I’ve come torealize that Jesus was a Capital-ist. Capital is not just measuredin monetary value, capital is amatter of your full worth, ver-dad? During his time, Jesus wasbountiful with very little. Jesus

AY MUJER

“Ay Mujer” is written byDeborah Ramirez, a proudChicana de Bakersfield.

How do you get into heaven?

D E B O R A H R A M I R E Z



First Annual Children Joining Children for

Success Benefit At the

Rabobank Arena • Saturday, Dec. 12. Ribbon-cutting starts at noon for a Private Session with Mentors, CASA and Jamison Center Children with Condors Game at 7pm.

Admission: $10 and $16 By Purchase or Donating a $10 Ticket You Have an Opportunity

To Make A Difference in a Child’s Life. (Tax Deductible) The Benefit will raise money to help court-dependent children of the CASA program and Jamison’s Center.

Activities include Condors hockey game, ice skating and mentoring for the children.

Sponsorships are still available! Please contact Sylvia Mendez, founder of the nonprofit Children Joining Children for Success, at 631-2904 or e-mail [email protected] For a complete list of our sponsors, please visit www.cjcfs.org

Want to mentor or be a part of the group? Make a difference by signing up to be a mentor at the event. Own a Rabobank Suite? Make a difference by donating your suite for the day so mentors can speak to the children

On-the-Job Training Program...reimbursing up to 50% of an employees

wages for up to 6 months, based on a negotiated period.

325-HIRE1.800.203.2623

TDD 661.336.6839

A Workforce Investment Act Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

WE PAY YOUTO HIRE!

GENTE GALLERIES

FLOREZ FOR LIEUTENANTGOVERNOR 2010November 5, 2009

Held at Joey and Christy Porter’s home

Photos by Greg Nichols

Curtis Floyd, Sylvia Lopez, Kurt Thomas(back), ClaytonMack, and Jennifer Floyd. Wendy Wayne, Tiffany Rau, Jordan Feilders, and George Minter

Manuel and Danielle Monsibais with Aaron Flores

was generous and in generosity— wealth and wellnessoccurred not just for Him, butothers around Him. Isn’t thatthe foundation of Capitalism,make more out of little and inhaving more, wellness occursfor you?

I don’t understand how tak-ing care of others isn’t benefi-cial to all. I don’t understandhow being kind can’t be bounti-ful. Maybe that’s Catholicschool naïveté, idealism and

optimism all wrapped up intome. Pero, I’d rather believe inthe goodness of others than bedepressed by selfishness andnarcissism. What I do know isthat I’m good with God andwhen I get to the Pearly Gates,I’ll hand Him my dissertationand say, “I’m sorry.” Sorry, notfor the length of my disserta-tion, but for all that I’ve donewrong because, in the end, it’sbetween me and Him. It’s myspirituality that carries me, notmy religion.

had traveled untold miles byfoot, others by bicycle, somecame on their knees, still otherswith large paintings of La Vir-gen strapped to their back.

There was the man dressed inthe white shirt and pants, remi-niscent of a peasant from abygone era who was on his

knees and blindfolded, aided bywomen on either side who guid-ed his every step.

These words cannot do justiceto the feelings and emotions thatI experienced while there. I doknow I’ll never forget that visit.

And as I told La Virgencita, itwas only my first of what I hopewill be many visits.


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www.lawtorres.com Visa, MasterCard accepted

GENTE GALLERIES

From left: Vicky Camacho and Gracie Camacho

COMIC CONNovember 8, 2009

Held at Double Tree Hotel

Photo by John Harte




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GENTE GALLERIES

ALTARES DE FAMILIANovember 1, 2009Held at Bakersfield Museum of Art

Photos by Tanya X. Leonzo

LA GUELAGETZA CELEBRATIONOctober 18, 2009

Held at Bakersfield Sports Arena

Photos by Daniela Garcia

From left: Ursula Ybarra, Julio Alvarez, Victor E. Alvarez, ArmindaAlvarez, Dimas Obed Alvarez, and Dimas Alvarez Sr.

Ana, Esmeralda, Aristeo and Irineo Cruz.

Ballet Folklorico dances La Guelaguetza.

Ericca Chavez and Heather Lucero with an altar for Ricky Montoya.


ABOGADOSACCIDENTES DE AUTO ACCIDENTES DE AUTO

RESBALONES Y CAIDAS ACCIDENTES DE MOTOCICLETAS

MORDIDAS DE PERRO LASTIMADURAS DE PEATON ACCIDENTES DE BICICLETAS

NO GANAMOS NO GANAMOSNO COBRAMOS NO COBRAMOS Oficinas Legales de Richard Sadeddin

661-377-2156 1-877-203-8482 4900 California Ave. Tower B210

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Segunda Opinion Segunda OpinionEn Caso Existente En Caso Existente

SI NO TIENE SEGURO DE AUTO NO IMPORTA Si usted es pasajero, T ambién tiene derecho VAMOS A SU CASA, TRABAJO

ó AL HOSPITAL Tratamiento medico de Immediato

GENTE GALLERIES

J.R. RODRIGUEZ RETIREMENTCELEBRATIONNovember 21, 2009Held at C.H.P 420 Squad Club

Photos by Savannah Woolsey

Felix Vasquez, JR Rodriguez, Robin Vasquez

JR Rodriguez Jr., daughter in-law Martha, daughter Kelsi, grand-son Jimmy (baby), JR Rodriguez, wife Norma.

JR Rodriguez (second from left) with co-workers and friends.


late, and of course, milk in theirkitchens.

Available exclusively onwww.gotmilk.com/recipes,Perry shares her favorite holi-day latte recipes, whichinclude:

• Tres Leches Latte — Perryturns a popular Latin cake intoa delectable latte. Mix steamedmilk, condensed milk, espressoor strong brewed coffee and topwith whipped cream, powderedsugar and maraschino cherryfor a sweet holiday treat.

• Pumpkin Spice Latte — Acombination of milk, espressoor strong brewed coffee andpumpkin pie mix brings com-fort to those who enjoy flavorsof nutmeg and cinnamon intheir drink.

• Peppermint Mocha Marti-ni — This non-alcoholic bever-age is made of milk, espresso orstrong brewed coffee andchocolate syrup all shaken in amartini shaker with ice. Dipthe rim of a martini glass incrushed peppermint candy andyou have an elegant drink toserve to guests.

• Holiday Frozen Hot Choco-late — No holiday celebration iscomplete without a chocolateydrink. This chocolate lover’sdream is made with milk, non-dairy creamer, powderedchocolate and ice all combinedtogether until smooth in ablender and topped withwhipped cream and sprinkles.

“Perry’s festive, calcium-rich lattes are the perfect wayto cap off a holiday celebrationor to enjoy as a comforting win-ter treat,” says Steve James,executive director of the Cali-fornia Milk Processor Board(CMPB), the creator of GOTMILK? “Through her recipes,Perry shows how milk can bepart of the season’s festivitieswith family and friends.”

— To learn more aboutPerry’s holiday latte recipes,visit:www.gotmilk.com/recipes.

Peppermint Mocha Martini

Pumpkin Spice Latte



Occupying approximately 80 acres, our beautiful facility offers a comforting environment featuring rolling hills, numerous trees, variety of flowers, beautiful and peaceful ponds and fountains offering a serene and calm setting; spacious chapel; several memorials, monuments and personalized benches. We are the only memorial park in Bakersfield area to offer Private Family Estates Gardens. Private Estates offer intimate exclusivity where customization and custom landscapes provide a highly personal resting place. Our Private Estates and Cremation Gardens are adjacent to our Chapel Mausoleum and our newly created Pavilion staging area where families may have their services as well as private family receptions. We also pride ourselves in honoring our active duty and veterans by assisting families and the armed forces with our expertise in traditional military honors throughout the entire process. We have beautiful spaces all throughout our location but specifically have our Hill of Valor to honor our veterans, armed forces and their family and friends. To further assist our families, we provide the

convenience of both funeral and burial services in one location and a highly professional staff with Spanish and Portuguese-speaking capabilities. As a Dignity Memorial provider we are committed to helping families of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds create memorial services that will be long remembered for the manner in which they pay respect to the unique lives that have meant so much to their family and friends. Being a Dignity Memorial provider we’re able to assist our families with several benefits such as, updated facilities and equipment- cars, ability to assist with transit of one’s loved one to or from our funeral home from another Dignity Memorial provider since we are a national network, we offer transportation from your home to tour and visit our funeral home at any time, 24 hours visitations available, personalized everlasting memorial videos to capture the

life celebrated by one’s loved one, we also assist families with bereavement travel, compassion grief support and assistance with estate-financial planning through our Aftercare Planners. We are closely located

to our affiliated funeral home with a crematory, for all of our cremation needs. Our memorial park and funeral home is also pleased of our relationship with the local and national hospices. We compassionately serve our community and our families by inviting everyone to our

annual Easter Sunrise and Memorial Day services and our annual Candlelight Service of Remembrance in December honoring the loss of a loved one.

The staff at Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary will warmly greet and assist you and your family through a difficult grieving process, as well as assist you with personal customized pre-planning of your own funeral or the funeral of someone close to you. We offer a Personal Planning Guide for your final arrangements, which is a precious gift to those you love. It’s important to create a detailed, personalized blueprint to ensure your wishes are known and to remove that burden from your loved ones. That’s why we offer a FREE Personal Planning Guide. For your FREE copy, please contact us at 661-366-5766.

(About Us)

24 hour visitations available • Full Pre-Planning Arrangements Available for Cemetery & Funeral Home FREE CONSULTATIONS •ÿSe Habla Español • Fala Se Portugués

(661) 366-5766 FAX (661) 873-2543 • 9101 Kern Canyon Rd., Bakersfield, CA 93306 www.dignitymemorial.com

Welcome to Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary

FD#1162

Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary has served Bakersfield and its surrounding area families since its founding in 1962. As a proud member of the Dignity Memorial national network, we are devoted to exceeding expectations and providing a standard of service that is 100 percent guaranteed.

mas magazine - december 2009

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