MAS Magazine - August 2010!

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August 1, 2010 MÁS | 03

Turn family time into Extremo Time!Extremo Pac from Bright House Networks.

» More than 140 channels in English and Spanish – for the whole family.

» 22 FREE On Demand channels that features Lo Mejor – offering 50 hours of sports, news, movies and entertainment from Univision, TeleFutura and Galavisión. Watch on your schedule.

» Plus FREE HD channels like Univision HD, Telefutura HD and more!

» Exclusive channels such as Sports En Espanol, Bakersfield On Demand, KCAL, KVPT and KCOP – that you can’t get with the satellite or phone companies.

» Now featuring StartOverTM – a new Digital TV feature that lets your restart certain live TV shows from the very beginning.

Limited time offer. Not all services available in all areas. After promotional period, retail rates apply. Other restrictions may apply. Call Bright House Networks for complete offer details.

Bright House Networks honors the Mexican culture and proudly supports Hispanic events year-round, in Kern County:

»Cuadrilla de la Semana continues through the summer! Be sure to look for us every Friday as we partner with El Gallito radio to bring lunch and entertainment to those who work in the fields. Then tune in and watch Cuadrilla de la Semana on Bakersfield on Demand Channel 300.

»Bright House Networks is also sponsoring the Los Lonely Boys, coming to the Fox Theater in Bakersfield on Wednesday, August 4th. For more information go to www.brighthouse.com

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Where has the time gone? Itfeels as if the summer breakjust started a few weeksago.

Yes, August has arrived. Meanwhilemany of us may find ourselves wrappingup last-minute vacation and travelingplans. We are in that group.

And as painful as it might be to hear, backto school might not be the first thing on themind of many of our youths. My boys willagree. For them, it’s all about sleeping in,swimming, hanging out with friends andcousins, going to the beach, and playingfootball.

But no worries. We are here to help.In this isue of MAS, we put the focus on

education. Writer Gabriel Ramirez talks to several

educators at different grade levels, includ-ing college, to provide us with thoughts onthe current state of education in thesetough economic times as well as hopes forthe future. Kern County Superintendent of

Schools Christine Lizardi Frazier hasshares some insight.

In addition, a few other educators pro-vide some important back-to-school tipsto prepare your student, whether he or sheis in elementary, middle school or highschool or college.

And you can’t have an education issuewithout highlighting a teacher and stu-dents who are making a difference.

We profile music teacher Nick Olmoswho has been challenging students tohone their musical talent and skills. We alsofeature the volunteer efforts of CentennialHigh School student Anthony Baca andBakersfield College student ElizabethNava.

Among other things, writer Luz Peña tellsus all about vaccinations for the variousage groups. Columnist Noe G. fills us in onhappenings for the month.

Luz also spends time with Grupo Aztlan,a well-known local popular band that iscelebrating 35 years in existence. Felici-dades.

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

EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s back-to-school time

04 | MÁS August 1, 2010

Educators hablanLocal educators discuss successesand challenges they face during hardeconomic times.

5

CONTENTSAU G UST 2 0 1 0

Olivia Garcia Editor [email protected] 395-7487

Matt Muñoz Staff Writer [email protected]

Sandi Molen Copy Editor [email protected]

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSGABRIEL RAMIREZ, LISA KIMBLE,

NOE GARCIA, JAY TAMSI

LUZ PEÑA

MICHAEL LOPEZ, JOSE TREVIÑO,

TANYA X. LEONZO, JOHN ORNELAS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STAFF

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

ON THE COVER: Local music teacherNick Olmos helps student reach fortheir musical aspirations.

Photo by Rodney Thornburg

ART DIRECTIONGlenn Hammett Design Editor

[email protected]

Kent Kuehl [email protected]

OFFICE

Marisol Sorto Office Administrator [email protected] 716-8640

ADVERTISING ARTISTROBERTO NUNEZ

Ready for school?Tips to make sure you ace the firstday of clase.

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ImmunizationsAugust is National ImmunizationMonth. Make sure your hijo isvaccinated.

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With every notaCollege Heights music teacherinspires students to listen to theirhearts.

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Hispanic ChamberIt’s been a busy summer for the KernCounty Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

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Latinas on the moveLatinas honored for their leadership andcommunity activism.

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PHOTOS BY JOHN ORNELAS

Educators Matthew Regpala, Jesse L. Acebedo, Christine Lizardi Frazier, Marisol Alvarez-Walker, Griselda Elizalde, and Octavio C. Patino.

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AAuugguusstt 11,, 22001100 MÁS | 05

EDUCATION

Educators speak upabout the future of

By Gabriel RamirezSpecial to MÁS

While the national and state economiesattempt to recover from what manynow call “The Great Recession,” Cal-ifornia’s education system continues

to suffer from an ongoing onslaught of cutbacksacross the board.

Despite an increasing student population,many local districts have had to continue to domore with a whole lot less.

MÁS sat down with a few educators, adminis-trators and school board members to talk tothem about why education is their passion, theirview on the changing face of education and theirhopes and thoughts for the future of the Califor-nia education system.

Marisol Alvarez-WalkerPosition: First-grade teacher

School: Buttonwillow Elementary School

District: Buttonwillow Union School District

Q: What got you interested in working in education?

A: In high school, I was a student aide in a kindergartenclassroom and absolutely loved working with students.Since then the burning desire to one day have my ownclassroom never ceased.

Q: What do you think has been your greatest accom-

plishment in your field?

A: The greatest accomplishment thus far for me hasbeen having progressed in my education and going furtherbeyond achieving a B.A. in Child Development and havingobtained a M.A. in Education at the mere age of 25.

Q: How has the education system changed in the past

five years?

A: The educational system has changed in many ways.

education in California

Continued on page 06


Educators Matthew Regpala, Jesse L. Acebedo, Christine Lizardi Frazier, Marisol Alvarez-Walker, Griselda Elizalde, and Octavio C. Patino.

06 | MÁS AAuugguusstt 11,, 22001100

First, the main focus is now on LanguageArts and Math in a self-contained class-room, primarily in the primary grades.Science and Social Studies are not giventhat big of a priority today — and mostclassrooms have very little focus on thesetwo subjects. Second, the lessons are alsovery state standard oriented and teachersare required to post the main objectivewhere it is clearly visible to the students.If a lesson plan is constructed, it must bealigned to a state standard for the givengrade and it must be accompanied by anobjective.

Q: Despite cutbacks in education

across the board, what are you doing to

ensure student success?

A: I am taking one day at a time. Asharsh as the cuts are becoming, the onlyway to ensure student success is to be ascreative with the limited resources avail-able within the district and classroom. Asa teacher, one learns to be very flexible inorder to meet all student needs. Keeping apositive outlook, creativity and makinglearning fun on a daily basis are importantfactors in order to ensure academic suc-cess.

I may not be able to change the world,but I can make a huge impact on the 20students I have during the school year.

Q: What is the biggest problem with

our education system?

A: The biggest problem with our educa-tion system today is low funding but theteacher and curriculum expectations areon the rise. Low funding limits the pro-grams that are implemented in our schoolsand decreases class reduction in many dis-tricts. Tenure also becomes an issue, whena teacher fails to conduct their job as ahighly qualified teacher. Not only are theyfailing their students and their families,but also our community.

Q: What would you say is the biggest

roadblock preventing the success of His-

panic students, if any?

A: A language barrier between teacherand students exist that can hinder a stu-dent’s understanding of the concepts beingtaught in some or all major subject areas.The student may not speak the Englishlanguage and due to the small number ofbilingual teachers that exist in the educa-tion field, we have a clash in the classroomatmosphere and it can lead to failure inacademics.

Q: What is the best thing about the

education system?

A: For the most part, those who chooseteaching as their profession have a strongdesire to give back to their communities.These are the same people who truly dohave the patience and care about the fami-lies they work with. The best part aboutthe education system is that it is free forall families.

Q: If they could do one thing, what

would be the most important thing par-

ents could do to ensure the success of

their children in school?

A: Parents should be involved in theirchild’s education by visiting their child’sclassroom to stay informed on what isbeing taught to their children and to build

a partnership not only with their child’steacher, but also with the school. Constantcommunication is key to ensure their chil-dren are successful in their academics.

Q: What changes do you see in educa-

tion in the next 10 years?

A: I hope in 10 years the education sys-tem grants more funding and allows allschools to return to class reduction in eachgrade. Perhaps in 10 years the decisionsmade on behalf of education will be bal-anced between the funding available andthe expectations for teaching. Hopefully,the goals set by the state will be reason-able and realistic. Teachers should also beheld responsible for the quality of teach-ing conducted in their classroom and dis-missed if the expectations are not met.

Griselda ElizaldePosition: Special Education Teacher

School: Stiern Middle School

District: Bakersfield City School District

Q: What got you interested in working

in education?

A: In 2003, I received an A.A. in LiberalArts but wasn’t sure what major to pick atCal State. I took a year off from school andbegan working different jobs. I thenbecame a special education aide in 2004and worked that job for a year. I found thatI could work well with students that havelearning disabilities and decided to contin-ue in this field.

Q: What do you think has been your

greatest accomplishment in your field?

A: Completing the credential programhas been my greatest accomplishment. Iwas hired as an intern during a time whenspecial education teachers were greatlyneeded. I am currently working on my lasttwo classes of the credential program and


Marisol Alvarez-Walker

Continued from page 05

Griselda Elizalde


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will soon start working on myMasters in Education.

Q: How has the education

system changed in the past

five years?

A: There have been manypositive and negative changes.Teachers are now faced withmany more challenges. Forexample, the delivery ofinstruction/structure of curricu-lum to make learning accessi-ble, high-stake tests and the rig-ors of administration — but I amsure these are all meant to cre-ate a positive change. Negativechanges have been mainlycaused by funding and budgetcuts, increased class sizes andlimited resources.

Q: Despite cutbacks in edu-

cation across the board, what

are you doing to ensure stu-

dent success?

A: I try not to look at the nega-tive things. Despite the fact thatmy students are in special edu-cation, I work very hard to cre-ate a positive learning environ-ment and always set highexpectations.

Q: What is the biggest prob-

lem with our education sys-

tem?

A: Currently, the biggestproblem is the state budgetingissue. This problem hurts themost innocent — our students.

Q: What would you say is the

biggest roadblock preventing

the success of Hispanic stu-

dents, if any?

A: Not being well informed.Even with this highly revolu-tionized world of the Internet, Istill see many families not beingwell informed of the opportuni-ties and programs out there thatare geared toward the Latinopopulation.

Q: What is the best thing

about the education system?

A: Accountability. Manymore teachers are now joiningtogether to plan, to share and tothink of creative strategiesbecause we are held account-able for our students’ learning.

Q: If they could do one thing,

what would be the most impor-

tant thing parents could do to

ensure the success of their

children in school?

A: I think that the mostimportant thing that parents cando is participate in any way theycan. It can be a simple phonecall to a teacher, a letter or a

quick visit. Even if they areextremely busy, it only takesfive minutes to show their chil-dren that they care. I know itworked for me. I grew up withboth of my parents working longhours to raise six children. Itonly took about five minutes aweek to keep me on track.

Q: What changes do you see

in education in the next 10

years?

A: I am an optimist. I am hop-ing that the budget crisis is oververy soon! I see students mov-ing up in scores and I see manymore resources made availableto students, parents and teach-ers.

Matthew RegpalaPosition: Math Teacher

School: Arvin High School

District: Kern High School

District

Q: What got you interested

in working in education?

A: I became interested ineducation after having had somany great math teachersmyself. Teachers like Mr. Shup-pert, Mr. Robles, Mr. Tuckerand Mrs. Cameron really mademath seem so fun and interest-ing that I wanted to do what theywere doing.

Q: What do you think has

been your greatest accom-

plishment in your field?

A: I don’t know about greatestaccomplishments. I’m more intothe smaller accomplishmentslike each time I help a student tobecome a little better at maththan they thought they were. Orthe times when I’m able to con-vince students that math is funand worthwhile. The small onesthat happen each day are actual-ly the great ones.

Q: How has the education

system changed in the past

five years?

A: I think the educational sys-tem has taken a turn for theworse in the past five years. Theemphasis on testing and scoreshas transformed each studentand school into a number. Evenworse, only the numbers in cer-tain subject areas seem to mat-ter to the powers that be, so welose fine arts programs andtechnical programs. There is nofocus on the whole student any-more.

In an educated society, musi-



cians are just as important as mathematicians.Our country has sacrificed creativity and inno-vation in the name of higher test scores.

Q: Despite cutbacks in education across the

board, what are you doing to ensure student

success?

A: My job is to stay positive about what stu-dents can learn in my class and teach them, nomatter what I have available to me. With that inmind, I think the best way to deal with cutbacks is to not dwell on them, and to be thankfulfor what I do have in my classroom, and to workwith what I have. This is not a unique perspec-tive. Many teachers believe the same way.

Q: What is the biggest problem with our

education system?

A: The biggest problem with our system isthe emphasis on testing rather than learningthat has been placed on us.

Q: What would you say is the biggest road-

block preventing the success of Hispanic stu-

dents, if any?

A: I think the biggest roadblock preventingsuccess is a mental one. Many of my studentsbelieve themselves to be less than they are. Byshowing them the truth — that they belong onthe same playing field as everyone else — andthat they are not less than anyone, we can helpremove that roadblock.

Q: What is the best thing about the educa-

tion system?

A: The best thing about the education system


Matthew RegpalaContinued on page 16


As the end of summerdraws near and thebeginning of a newschool year approach-

es, many parents find them-selves unsure about how toprepare their children forschool.

Whether your child is goingto school for the first time orheaded far away to college,sending them out on their ownisn’t easy. MÁS talked to a few

counselors, kindergartenthrough college, and receivedsome tips for parents whomight be a little nervous aboutthe next step in their child’seducation.

Tips for Elementary School

Anita FergusonBrowning Road ElementarySchool

1. Three to five days prior tothe first day of school, get yourchild back into a routine —including consistent bedtime

and wake-up time.

2. Kindergarten is a bigadjustment for a child. Beginhaving positive conversationswith your child and discusshow exciting school will be andother positive experiences likemaking new friends andlearning new things.

3. Read, read, read.Encourage you child to readanywhere from 15 to 30minutes per day. Read to yourchild and have your child readout loud or visit the locallibrary for story time.

4. Buy basic school suppliesand uniforms — this includesbackpack, pencils, erasers andpaper. You will receive a moredetailed supply list from theteacher the first few days ofschool. If you need help buyingthese items, ask your schoolfor referrals or resources onorganizations that help provideassistance to parents.

5. Do something fun andsmall to remind your child howspecial they are and how proudyou are of them. Leave a noteor something special in theirbackpack, desk or lunchbox onthe first day of school.

Tips for Middle School

Teresa SilvasKern County Association of

School Counselors President1. Organization of your

child’s day is key for them toget through their eventful day.Some schools will give yourchild a daily calendar so thatthey may write down whentheir assignments are due.Some students use a binderwith dividers for each subject.Others need a folder for eachsubject.

2. Do not hesitate tocommunicate with your child’steachers throughout the schoolyear. Most teacherscommunicate through email. Be

aware when report cards arescheduled to be mailed home.Report cards are usually notsent home for you to sign andreturn as they were inelementary school. Somemiddle schools will sendprogress grades half waythrough the quarter. This is agreat opportunity to see inwhat areas your child may bestruggling in. Some middleschools also offer a weeklyprogress report.

3. Middle school is also atime where your child makesnew friends. Being accepted bytheir peers is important to yourchild. Talking to your childabout what qualities they wantto see in friends they hang outwith is just as important asyour child knowing whatfriendship qualities theypossess. There are manyopportunities to meet peoplewith similar interests if yourchild is involved in sports,school clubs, communityorganizations and church orfaith-based activities.

4. Most middle schools tendto begin the day earlier thanelementary schools. Make sureyour child gets plenty of sleep.Preparing their belongings thenight before so that they arenot rushing in the morningtrying to find shoes orbackpacks will cut down on themorning stress.

5. Your child will experiencemany memories during themiddle school years. Continueto communicate regularly withyour child during these years. Ifthe need arises, don’t hesitateto contact the school to makean appointment with someoneto discuss your concerns.

Tips for High School

Lydia CaceresShafter High School1. At least two weeks before

school starts help students

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ANTLERANTLER

EDUCATION

Educators share tips on howbest to prepare children forback to school

Class preparation

August 1, 2010 MÁS | 11

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wind down early so theirevening routine is as close tothe routine that needs to be inplace when school starts.

2. For first time freshmen, besure to visit their future schoolbefore summer school is over totake a quick tour. Ask for a mapof the school; familiarizeyourself with the location of therestrooms, the lockers, thebuildings and room numbers,and the location of the gym andthe library. If you plan ahead,you may even get a tour from astudent aide during the summer!

3. Be ready for the first day ofschool. Buy a backpack to carrybooks, invest in a planner towrite down assignments, buyfive to six separate notebooks(one per subject) and alwayshave a pen, pencil and eraserhandy.

4. Plan to attend a freshmanorientation if your child’s schooloffers them. Your child will havea lot of fun and can familiarizethemselves with staff membersand other freshmen.

5. Help your student setgoals. Help them decide if theywant to improve their GPA,make the football team, get an Ain math or whatever they needto improve on. Choosing it,writing it, and posting it in theirlocker will help accomplish thatgoal!

Tips for College

Frank RamirezUC, MercedSouthern Region Outreach

and Recruitment Coordinator1. Help Meet Deadlines: There

are many deadlines for variousentities within a college campus— housing, financial aid,admissions — so it’s importantto know what they are and theirpurpose. Not meeting deadlinescan result in delays in thedisbursement of financial aidfunds, cancellation of classes ormany other unfortunate issues.Most college campuses willcommunicate with students viaemail or a campus portal.Parents should remind theirstudents to stay updated withthese messages.

2. Teach Budgeting Skills: Nomatter how a student will bepaying for college, students

need to understand how tobudget their money to make itlast the entire semester/quarter.Students need to set up a basicbudget of how they are planningto cover their books, classsupplies, printing costs, livingexpenses and any otherexpenses needed to help themsurvive. If they are planning towork, they can start estimatinghow many hours they will needto work in order to meet theirestimated expenses. TheFinancial Aid office usually hasestimates of how much studentsspend and the types of expensesstudent have, so they can helpgive parents information to getthis conversation started.

3. Explore Campus StudentServices: Every campus has aStudent Service Departmentaimed at helping studentssucceed in college. Parentsshould explore these optionswith their student andencourage them to utilize theseservices. They can explore theseoptions via the campus website,new student orientation or acampus visit.

4. Make a Check List:Whether your student is stayinglocal or leaving town, it’simportant to start a check list ofitems they will need for the firstday of school. Most officesupply, electronics anddepartment stores will have anextra inventory of “back toschool” supplies this time ofyear, but their inventory quicklygets depleted as we approachthe month of September. Itemslike dorm room refrigerators andcomputers start disappearing atmost stores as September nears,so it’s recommended to startcollecting these items beforeyou end up with very fewoptions.

5. Teach Independent LivingFundamentals: For manystudents, this will be their firsttime living independently.Parents should consider walkingthem through theresponsibilities of livingindependently. Fundamentalssuch as how to do laundry,clean, time management, cookand maintain themselves areoften overlooked. This could bea tough activity because it’s amoment when a parent realizesthat their little boy/girl is ontheir way to becoming an adult.

By Luz PeñaSpecial to MÁS

August is NationalImmunization Monthand the Kern CountyDepartment of Public

Health wants to make sure allyour children — infants to teens— are vaccinated.

Like most parents, you madesure to get your hijos theirimmunizations as infants andtoddlers, but what about nowthat they’re entering middleschool or high school? KernCounty Department of PublicHealth and pediatriciansremind parents that older chil-dren need to be protected too.

“It is very important that ado-lescents are up to date on theirimmunizations to help preventan outbreak,” said Ann Walker,Immunizations Coordinator forthe Kern County Department ofPublic Health. “We are current-ly seeing lots of whooping coughcases. Everyone needs to be vac-cinated to keep everyone safe.”

According to the Kern CountyDepartment of Public Healthwebsite in mid-July, there were140 reported cases of whoopingcough in Kern County.

Walker said many parentsdrop off their children’s immu-nizations after they reachkindergarten.

“Some parents are very goodat getting the ‘First 5’ immuniza-tions, but once the kids get olderthey forget or slack off,” Walkersaid. “Parents should get theirchildren an annual physical andask their doctor what immuniza-tions, if any, are needed.”

Some of the recommendedvaccinations for pre-teen andand teens are the Meningococ-cal Vaccine, which helps protectagainst meningitis or otherrelated infections; a TetanusBooster, which protects againstwhooping cough; and HPV,which protects against cervical

cancer and genital warts. “The HPV vaccine is given

now to both boys and girls overthe age of 9. It helps preventcervical cancer,” said Walker.“Some will say ‘I don’t need toworry about that now, I plan tostay a virgin until I’m married.’OK, but what if, when you getmarried and your partner hasthe virus without you knowing itand you get it from them? It’sbetter to stay safe than sorry.”

Other recommended vaccinesare an annual flu vaccine,Hepatitis A and B shot.

Dr. Hasmukh Amin fromRiverwalk Pediatrics saidimmunizations are another wayof protecting children from pre-ventible diseases.

“It’s important to vaccinateolder kids because they’re moresusceptible to diseases likewhooping cough,” Amin said.“The reason they’re not gettingtheir immunizations is becauseof the lack of knowledge by theparents. Educating parents andraising awareness is the onlyway parents will know they needto be vaccinated.”

To make the immunizationprocess more efficient, KernCounty is among the other coun-ties in the Central Valley that hasImmunization Registry whichkeeps track of your immuniza-tions records. If you forget orlose your immunizations card,the healthcare provider can easi-ly look up your information onthe database. Many pediatriciansin Kern County are participantsin the registry, but if not, you canrequest they add you through thePublic Health Department.

Parents can get their childrenvaccinated by their pediatricianor at the Public Health Depart-ment on 1800 Mt. Vernon Ave.,Monday through Friday between8 a.m. and 4 p.m. In August, theoffice will have extended hours.For more information pleasecall: 868-0306.


HEALTH

August is National Immunization Month

Infants and Toddlers:

• Hepatitis B — 3 doses

• DTaP (Diphteria, Tetanus,and Pertussis) — 4 doses

• Polio — 3 doses

• Hib (Haemophilusinfluenzae type B) — 4doses

• Pneumococcal conjugatevaccine — 4 doses

• Rotavirus — 3 doses

• MMR (Measles, Mumps,Rubella and Varicella) —1 dose

• Chickenpox vaccine —1dose

• Hepatitis A — 1 dose

Before enteringkindergarten:

• Chickenpox Vaccine —second dose

• Hepatitis — a seconddose

• DTaP* — fifth dose

• MMR* — second dose

• Influenza (Flu) Vaccine —annually

*Required for California School Entry,based on California School Law

11 and 12 Year Olds andTeens:

• MCV4 (MeningococcalVaccine) — protectsagainst meningitis andother related infections

• Tdap (Tenanus Booster)— protects againstwhooping cough

• Second ChickenpoxVaccine — if they neverhad chickenpox diseaseand only received onedose previously

• HPV (HumanPapillomavirus)* —protects against cervicalcancer and genital warts

• Influenza (Flu Vaccine) —annually

• Hepatitis A and B

*Recommended for age 9 and older

VACCINATION RECOMMENDATIONS

Is your hijo protected?

©2010. M

onterey B

ay Aq

uarium F

ound

ation. D

erechos reservad

os.

Existemagia en el agua.

Existemagia en el agua.

14 | MÁS August 1, 2010

COVER STORY

NickOlmosNick

Olmos

By Lisa KimbleSpecial to MÁS

At a time when funding for the arts and music isimperiled, the prevalence of music programs inlocal schools is not only reassuring, but a testamentto their instructors like College Heights Elemen-tary’s Nick Olmos, who is helping make a differencein the lives and futures of students, one chord at a

time. Next month, Olmos, who is a traveling elementary instru-mental music teacher for the Bakersfield City School District,will begin his seventh year at College Heights, where he hastaken his advanced orchestra to musical heights few other ele-mentary level bands have gone.

One listen to the polished-beyond-their-years, 42-memberorchestra comprised of 10, 11 and 12-year-olds, and it is easy tobelieve one is listening to a much older and more experiencedgroup. There is a sparkle that permeates their performances. Itis as if the cymbals leap out of their hands, and the horns arelaughing with the strings and percussion. And it comes as no sur-prise that the group gave a total of 10 performances this pastschool year, well beyond the two they are required to produce.“It is rare for elementary schools to do as many performances aswe do,” Olmos said. The orchestra’s extended concert seriesincluded the plumb invitation of opening for the BakersfieldCommunity Concert Association’s featured artist and a perform-

ance at Disneyland’sMagic Music Days.“To see their faces andexperience somethinglike Disneyland for thevery first time is price-less to me,” Olmosadded. “It is very spe-cial to me because alarge number of mystudents in my orches-tra have never been toDisneyland, and wouldnot be going if itweren’t for the musicprogram and thisopportunity.”

College Heights Ele-mentary straddlesHighway 178 in East

Bakersfield and finds itself at cultural and socio-economic cross-roads. Members of the advanced orchestra must either rent orpurchase their instrument, which might seem improbable. Theyreward their youthful and passionate instructor with his pluckyeffervescence over every single note and crescendo, by attendingpractice religiously in their makeshift concert hall - room #22, asmany as four mornings each week before the start of school. “Thekids are very dedicated to music, and it makes it fun to teachwhen the kids are so motivated,” said Olmos. “Nick has an innatesense of how to relate with young people and instruct them,” saidMichael Stone, Coordinator of the Bakersfield City School Dis-trict’s Visual and Performing Arts Department. “He engages with

Teacher striking rightchords with students

PHOTO BY RODNEY THORNBURG


“…I try to show them respect at alltimes and they treat me with thesame.” Says Olmos of his students.

August 1, 2010 MÁS | 15

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.

Grimmway is always looking for qualified candidates to join our growing family. Visit our website to see available career opportunites:www.grimmway.com/careeropportunities 661-854-6205

them at a pace that there is never a wasted moment, and there is anice demeanor and gentleness that students feel is encouraging andkids really respond to.”

Striking the right chord comes naturally for the 30-year-oldOlmos, who has been playing music since he was 3 — when hisfather gave him a pocket trumpet. “He would sit down and playMozart, then two weeks later he would sit down and play someBach,” said Olmos’ first music teacher, Bea Barmann, during aninterview with Valley Public Radio. By age 11, Nick Olmos hadjoined his father’s mariachi group. In high school he was twiceselected for the State Honor Band, and was a soloist with the Bak-ersfield Youth Symphony. Nick received a degree in Music Perfor-mance from Cal State Northridge, and returned to Bakersfield,where he would resume following in his father’s footsteps. WhenNicanor Olmos retired after 29 years of teaching music in the dis-trict, Nick took over his schools - something he says his studentsthought was really ‘cool’. “It seemed like the right thing to do.”

Olmos also teaches at Eissler Junior High and Munsey Elemen-tary. The College Heights Orchestra and Mariachi had 101 studentsparticipating this past year, the highest amongst the 31 schools inthe district. College Heights is one of only two schools in the districtto have a Mariachi group. Last spring, the advanced orchestraauditioned and was selected to be the featured young artists onKVPR’s spotlight on young musicians in the southern San JoaquinValley. It was a feather in the cap of their conductor and an acclaimfor the program that relies heavily on community donations.Nicanor Olmos helps out with the orchestra’s fundraisers and con-certs, while Nick’s mother is in the kitchen cooking for the dona-tions concert. Nick’s wife’s first grade classroom at Eissler doublesas his music room when he’s on that campus. “I wouldn’t be able todo it without them,” Nick said, referring to his family support of hislove for the job that well exceeds his paycheck.

“Nick is one of the most dedicated music teachers I have everknown,” Stone added. “The students perform at a level much high-er than their ages.”

For Nick Olmos, who has no children, his students are a gift. “Ifeel very lucky. I truly enjoy it,” he said. “These students are likemy children. I am very close to them and that is one reason we areable to do so much, because I try to show them respect at all timesand they treat me with the same.”

That level of mutual respect and admiration is what Olmosbelieves has allowed him to get the most out of his ensembles andhelp them rise to their highest potential, and even wider audiencesand adulation.


Nick Olmos, right, with his parents.


is that when it is running properly, it pro-vides opportunity for people to be whatthey want to be if they take initiative.





A: The most important thing parentscan do is to emphasize the importance ofacademic achievement in the home bymaking their children complete homeworkand study for the class.



A: As an optimist, I believe that the pow-ers that be will see that all this testing,with the exception of the Exit Exam, is abunch of nonsense. I have hopes that theywill bring innovation and creativity backto our classrooms and to our country.

Octavio C. PatinoPosition: Assistant Principal of Instruction

School: Shafter High

District: Kern High School District


in education?

A: My mother and father were bothteachers. I saw the positive influence theyhad on thousands of students and I wantedto offer the same.



A: Helping teachers and students fulfilltheir goals.

Q: How has the education system

changed in the past five years?

A: Money —we are asking our teachersto do more with fewer resources. And theyare doing a fantastic job.




A: We are trying to give our teachers asmuch support as we can. The teachers aredealing with large class sizes and so we doour best to help them with whatever wecan and encouraging the PLC (Profession-al Learning Community) mentality. It’sgoing to take everyone’s effort at ourschool to ensure student success.



A: I think there are many people outsideof the school system who do not under-stand the positive impact our schools aremaking. Education is an easy target forcriticism. If those who criticize could walkin teachers’ shoes for a week, they wouldadmire what teachers do every day.


education system?

A: Diplomas — watching a freshmancome to Shafter High and four years laterwalk across the graduation stage is thebest thing.





A: Get involved with their students’ edu-cation.



A: Every school becoming a Profession-al Learning Community, where students,teachers, parents, counselors and admin-istrators work together on common goalsof student success.

Jesse L. AcebedoPosition: Board Member

District: Wasco Union High School


in education?

A: I got interested in education when mykids were young. I started with parent club

activities then the school board of theparochial school my kids were attending.One thing led to another. Then I went tothe high school board, county board andback to the high school board, where I’mcurrently a member.



A: As a board member I would have tosay that the passage of our bond measure acouple of years ago was a key accomplish-ment. Especially in light of the morerecent budget cuts. Without this bondmoney we would not have been able toimprove our campus with additional class-rooms, improve technology, upgradeexisting classrooms and a new sports com-plex. Now we are in the process of buildinga new cafeteria and upgrading our library.



A: There is so much more new andadvanced technology, not just in running aschool, but also in the classroom as teach-ing aids, such as the Smart Board. Kids aremore sophisticated and their scope of


Octavio C. Patino


Jesse L. Acebedo



knowledge extends beyond their communi-ty.




A: So far, we haven’t had to lay off anyteachers, and have kept elimination of non-core programs to a minimum. I know that ifthe budget crisis continues we may have tolook at further cuts. But student success isour primary focus in making those toughdecisions.



A: I think that tenure is one thing that

needs to be revisited to ensure the best-qualified teachers stick around to keep stu-dents motivated. I believe tenure is one ofthe reasons we lose young, energetic,bright teachers — especially when districtshave to cut staff.




A: I don’t think the roadblocks for His-panics are much different than for anyother ethnic group, except perhaps some ofthe traditions of the Hispanic culture likethe idea that girls do not need a collegeeducation. There is also the socioeconomic

factor. But again, you can find this in otherethnic groups.

Q: What is the best thing about the edu-

cation system?

A: When you compare it to other coun-tries, it is virtually free. And everyone hasthe same opportunity to take it or leave it.





A: Stay involved. Not just going to theirfootball game, but also knowing what it isthey do in all aspects of their school days.Visit their school, talk to their teachers andknow who their friends are. In other words,keep tabs on them.



A: Changes are dependent on state fund-ing, whether it’s a positive or a negativechange. If we don’t have more funding,California will fall further behind in educa-tion. Our legislators need to spend moremoney on education and less on the crimi-nal element.

Christine Lizardi FrazierPosition: Kern County Superintendent of

Schools


in education?

A: After visiting a school for specialneeds students and working with them fora semester I realized the difference I couldmake in their lives and they in mine if I justknew what I was doing. I changed mymajor at Arizona State University frominternational studies to elementary educa-tion. I have never looked back.



A: Obtaining my doctorate in education-al leadership with an emphasis on schoolfinance was quite challenging but a veryworthwhile accomplishment. To be at thetop of my field requires that I also be up todate in the research and development thatwill be shaping the changes in the comingyears.

Q: How has the educational system


A: The use of technology in the class-room has exploded in the last few years.Students are accustomed to operating in acyber world and the schools are beginningto utilize this interest to deliver lessons inthe classroom as well as in offering on-lineclasses. Also, resources for teachers, suchas the Learning Village being implementedby the Bakersfield City School District, areproviding teachers with electronicresources that assist them in providing upto date, timely lessons to students.





Christine Lizardi Frazier



A: In making sure that cuts were notmade to core subjects, school districts areprioritizing their offerings and focusing onthose elements that deliver the most impacton student achievement. Some programs,while very beneficial, are being reconsid-ered in terms of direct impact on studentlearning. Hopefully, when times get betterfinancially, school districts will be betterprepared to utilize the increase in fundingto enhance these identified programs.



A: The system of funding for schools isarchaic. The expectations for students’achievement are well within the range ofaccomplishment; however, the funding forschools continues to lag behind the nation.Money doesn’t solve every issue but ade-quate funding goes a long way in providingaccess and equity to all students in orderto compete in a global society.




A: Expectations. It begins with parents;they must have the expectation that theirchildren will be successful in school andbeyond. Teachers must hold high expecta-tions for all students. Educational systemsmust not only hold high expectations forall students but must develop processesthat ensure that all students meet orexceed these expectations.


education system?

A: The students. I am amazed everytime I visit a school at the high level of per-formance of our students. We forget thatwe have greatly increased the difficultylevel at each grade level up to and includ-ing the senior year of high school. Weshould be very proud of this but also weshould give our students, teachers andparents praise for meeting this higherlevel of achievement.





A: Be there to help, encourage, support,redirect, discipline, provide a shoulder tocry on, to praise and be there to parent.



A: It will be amazing. Schools will be ade-quately funded, communities will be intri-cately involved in the schools and business-es will be partners to the fullest extent.Students will be learning in environmentsthat we can’t even imagine. Technology willplay a larger role, but teachers will stillplay the greatest role of all.

Gonzalo SantosPosition: Professor of Sociology

School: California State University,

Bakersfield


in education?

A: I have been interested in teaching allmy life since I was an undergrad. I got achance to teach a calculus course as anundergrad and loved it.



A: Probably the graduates I haveencouraged to become very productive cit-izens of this country.



A: It’s becoming McDonalized. Thereare two things putting tremendous pres-sure on down grading the standards ofeducation. The first is the drive to increasethe volume of students that go throughhigher education at the expense of thequality of education. I am talking of maxi-mizing enrollment in an era of limitedstate commitment to education. Californiais the poster boy for defunding higher edu-cation. Institutions are being asked to domore with less. Number two is the pres-sure of technology to create alternativemethods to deliver education that does notnecessary meet the high standards of truelearning. This obsession with empiricalinformation at the expense of criticalthinking and quality of analytical skillsyields unthinking graduate students.

Q: Despite cut backs in education



A: I am putting in a lot of voluntary hours— unpaid work. If I charge students thatdesperately need my help the same way alawyer does I would be a millionaire today.A whole lot of us did not take the mandatoryfurlough days but taught for free instead. Iwas not about to let students pay the pricefor the irresponsibility of the state.



A: Higher education is being defunded. Q: What would you say is the biggest



A: Hispanic students are succeeding.The statistics show that there is a problemto do with language acquisition. The prob-lem we are having across the board deeplyaffecting all students is that they are notbeing given the chance to go to college.There is also an undeclared war againstmale youth of color. Our youths are beingtargeted to fill up jails and increase theprofit for prisons. The number one prob-lem for the success of Latino males is thatthey are literally being targets in an unde-clared war.


education system?

A: It creates avenues of opportunity forpeople of our working classes to experi-ence upward social mobility for the bene-fit of our society. A healthy democracyrelies on an informed educated citizenry.





A: Fight for them against the schoolbureaucracy to make sure young men arenot punitively kicked out and stand up forthem. Also encourage their daughters togo to college and to not stop supportingthem.



A: If we don’t change course we aregoing to go in the direction of further pri-vatization, and the downgrading of Ameri-ca’s crown jewel to the level of a thirdworld country.

Gonzalo Santos



SUNDAY 8/113th annual LowriderNationals, featuring dubs, euros,

imports, motorcycles, bicycles

and hoppers and more, 11 a.m. to

5 p.m. Sunday, Kern County

Fairgrounds. $25 adults; children 7

to 11 are $5; children 6 and under

are free. lowridernationals.com or

323-352-8384.

Kern County Military FamiliesUnited, for current military

members, veterans, and

immediate families only, with

food and entertainment, 6 to 8

p.m. Sunday, National Guard

Armory Building, 2800 Gateway

Ave. Free. 978-7782.

MONDAY 8/2Recreational Swim Team, for

ages 5 to 18, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

or 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday

through Thursday, Bakersfield

College, 1801 Panorama Drive.

Open enrollment. 395-4663.

TUESDAY 8/3Farmers market, 4 to 7 p.m.

Tuesdays, now through

November, Central Park at Mill

Creek, 21st and R streets.

WEDNESDAY 8/4Los Lonely Boys, with special

guest, doors open at 7 p.m., show

at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Fox Theater,

2001 H St. $29.50 to $49.50.

vallitix.com or 324-1369.

THURSDAY 8/5Networking Mixer, hosted by

the CSUB Young Alumni Program,

with appetizers, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Lengthwise Brewery,

6720 Schirra Ct. First 50 people in

attendance will get a free beer

ticket & a Lengthwise pint glass.

654-2726.

The Nappy Roots, with special

guests, 9 p.m. Thursday, Fishlips

Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $12 plus

fee; 21 & over only. vallitix.com or

322-5200.

FRIDAY 8/6Darren Gholston, with special

guest L. Young, 7:30 p.m. Friday,

Nile Theater, 1721 19th St. $22

plus fee; 21 and over only.


First Friday Downtown,featuring live music, art openings,

specialty shops, galleries and

boutiques, artists will set up their

artwork, 5 to 9 p.m. Friday,

Downtown Arts District.

SATURDAY 8/75K Memorial Run/1 MileWalk/Run, hosted by Leukemia

& Lymphoma Society’s Team in

Training, 7:30 a.m. Beach Park.

$20 advance entry fee; $25 late

fee. bakersfieldtrackclub.com or

665-9503.

Bakersfield Rescue MissionBack to School Supply Drive,donations of school supplies,

including paper, pencils, pens,

glue, notebooks, and more can be

brought to seven different

locations, now through Aug. 10:

KAXL 88.3 FM, 110 S. Montclair

St., Suite 205; Hope Christian

Store (two locations), 7850 White

Lane or 3000 Mall View Road

(East Hills Mall); Kern Security

Systems, 2701 Fruitvale Ave.;

Dream Maker Bath & Kitchen,

5880 District Blvd.; Marcy

Parmley Farmers Insurance

Agency, 3612 Coffee Road;

Bakersfield Rescue Mission, 816 E.

21st St.; Color Me Mine, 9000

Ming Ave. and Account Control

Technology Inc., 5531 Business

Park South. 325-0863, ext. 219.

WEDNESDAY 8/11Buck Owens Birthday Bash,featuring Darryl Worley, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Buck Owens Crystal

Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

$71.50-$101.50 plus fee, includes

dinner. vallitix.com or call 322-

5200.

Food & Wine Pairing Seminars,featuring 6 six wines paired with

a plate of small bites tied

together for a delicious tasting

theme, learn how food interacts

with wine, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, now until Aug. 11,

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant,

4140 Truxtun Ave. $25 per

person, per seminar. 633-WINE.

THURSDAY 8/12Splish Splash Summer FunDay, learn about and play in

water (wear your bathing suit), 9

a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Kern

AUGUST EVENTS


20 | MÁS August 1, 2010

The

NetworkKern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce August 2010www.kchcc.org

Contributed by KCHCC

It was an evening full of businessnetworking and mingling at theJune business mixer, which washosted by Walters & Associates Real-

tors. Appetizers and refreshments wereprovided to all guests in attendance.The event was well attended by busi-ness professionals in all capacities.

Walters & Associates is an exceptionalcollection of Realtors who are dedicatedto taking care of our customers. Realtor

Blodgie Rodriguez is one of the agentsand a member of the Kern County His-panic Chamber of Commerce. Walters &Associates Realtors offer more than 50years of real estate brokerage experi-ence covering nearly half a billion dol-lars of properties.

Leslie Walters is a lifelong Bakersfieldresident and has created an identity inthe marketplace for taking care of hercustomers through the entire transac-tion. Her industry has recognized her asboth Salesperson of the Year and Broker

of the Year. She has been very active involunteering her time both inside andoutside her industry in efforts to makeher community a better place. All ofthese attributes form the philosophy ofher company and her sales agents andemployees.

For listings or more information,contact Walters & Associates at 716-2300 or visit them at 2026 21st Street.They can help you with your real estategoals.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KCHCC

Several board of directors gather with Realtors Leslie Walters and Blodgie Rodriguez during the business mixer.

Walters & Associates Realtorsdeliver successful mixer

August 1, 2010 MÁS | 21

0

SAVE THE DATE

Wednesday, August 11Business Mixer Hosted byAltaOne Credit Union6501 Ming Avenue5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.For info., contact 397-2555

Thursday, August 12Grand Opening & RibbonCutting The Padre Hotel1708 18th Street5:30 p.m.For info., contact 633-5495

Wednesday, August 15KCHCC Trade Show &Business Expo1142 South P St.For info., contact 633-5495

-- Have an event you wouldlike us to mention in ourCalendar section? Pleasecontact the KCHCC office at633-5495.

Dear Members and Friends,Here we are, it’s August, and

the warm summer days arequickly sailing by. We are Back toSchool in a few weeks, returningour children andteachers to theclassroom for thestart of anotherschool year. Amaz-ing, I’m sure youwill agree.

Here is a list ofour August calen-dar.

We will start themonth with ourBusiness Mixerhosted by Alta OneCredit Union,scheduled forWednesday, August11, located at 6501 Ming Ave.from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. It will be agreat networking opportunity.Please call 397-2555 for furtherinformation.

Mark your calendars for ourBusiness Trade Show, which isscheduled for Sunday, August 15at the Kern County Fairgroundsfrom 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

I encourage you to reserveyour booth early. It’s a perfectway to showcase your business.

Please call the Chamber officeearly to reserve your space.There will be food and enter-tainment for the whole family.Attendee admission is free.

Our appreciationgoes to Walters andAssociates for host-ing our July 14Business Mixer. Itwas well attendedby members andfriends.

A warm welcometo our new Cham-ber members, andwe thank ourrenewing mem-bers. We appreciateyour continuedsupport.

For further infor-mation, please call our Chamberoffice at 633-5495 or visit ourweb site at www.kchcc.org.Wishing all of you continuedsuccess. Until the next time.

Sincerely,

Ramona Herrera ChairKern County HispanicChamber of CommerceState Farm Insurance

A letter fromChair Herrera

KERN COUNTY HISPANICCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Thank you to our membership renewals andwelcome to our newest members. Weappreciate your support.

Donna Hermann

Mary Cruz Realty

Girl Scouts of Central California

Executive Business Service

RENEWALSFor renewing their memberships, the KCHCC thanks:

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS

For more informationvisit: www.kchcc.org or callthe Kern County HispanicChamber of Commerce officeat 633-5495.

KCHCC BOARDMission Statement:To create, promote and enhance business opportunities forour membership and provide business, cultural and resourcelinkages with emphasis on the Hispanic community.

2010 Executive BoardCHAIR- Ramona Herrera CHAIR-ELECT - Jay TamsiVICE-CHAIR - Donna HermannSECRETARY- David AlanisTREASURER - Jan Bans

Adam AlvidrezChris BernalDonna HollingsworthFran TrevinoHilary BairdJoe SerranoMichael UriosteRuben GonzalesRisto Rubio

Office AdministratorCyndi Imperial

Board of Directors

Bob’s Big Boy Restaurant3939 Ming AvenueBakersfield, CA 93309(661) 833-0780

Cherished MemoriesMemorial ChapelContact: Cecil Martin701 34th StreetBakersfield, CA 93301(661) 619-1995

Mercy Hospitals ofBakersfield2215 Truxtun AvenueBakersfield, CA 93301(661) 632-5000

Bakersfield Rubber StampContact: Peggy Snow825 19th StreetBakersfield, CA 93301(661) 327-8102

For more information, visit: www.kchcc.org or call KernCounty Hispanic Chamber of Commerce office at 633-5495.

22 | MÁS August 1, 2010



On July 1, the Kern County HispanicChamber of Commerce held a rib-bon-cutting and grand opening forEl Ranchito Restaurante y Pupuse-

ria. The restaurant is located on 1601 PanamaLane #110 in the Vallarta shopping center. It isowned and operated by Jose Bonilla and hisfamily. This is their second location in Bakers-field

El Ranchitocelebrates itsgrand opening


Jose Bonilla, owner of El Ranchito, and board of directors get together during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for therestaurant’s second location in Bakersfield.


Bonilla and a staff member cooking an assortment of delicious food for their cus-tomers.

August 1, 2010 MÁS | 23


On July 9, the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce host-ed a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for Fallas Dis-count Stores, which opened their doors in April of this year.Ramona Herrera, chair of the chamber, acknowledged the Board

of Directors present and welcomed those in attendance. Herrera led theribbon-cutting ceremony and recognized Bill Spence, Regional Managerfor Fallas Discount Stores. He introduced the management team, RudyLopez, District Manager, and Rick Rhodes, Store Manager. Spence gaveattendees a brief overview of the discount store.

Fallas Discount Store is located in the former Wal-Mart on the corner ofWhite Lane and Hughes Lane. The store carries an array of discounteditems, including women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, accessories, toys,and more. The parent company, National Stores Inc., also manages severalFactory 2-U stores in Kern County.

KCHCC is delighted to have Fallas Discount Store as a new member. Thestore has brought more jobs to Kern County, which is great during thiseconomy. For great deals and low prices, we encourage you to visit FallasDiscount Store, which is located at 2300 White Lane.

Fallas Discount Store on amission to deliver qualityservice

Jim Barbo joins Golden West Casino as GMContributed by KCHCC

For several years, the Golden WestCasino has been a very supportiveand active member of the Kern Coun-ty Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

The casino has arranged and provided thevenue for the successful KCHCC SpringSocial and Casino Night, as well as the spon-sorship of our annual installation and busi-ness awards banquet and Menudo cook-off,among other events. In this edition of theHispanic newsletter, the Golden West Casinois excited to announce their acquisition ofJim Barbo as General Manager.

He will be responsible for the operationalactivities and initiatives of the casino,including player development, employeerelations and marketing.

Barbo has made his mark in the gamingindustry for the past 30 years. Most recently,he has held the positions of Chief OperatingOfficer at Jacksonville Greyhound Racingand Poker, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida andGeneral Manager of Soboba Casino in SanJacinto, California. However, it was duringhis 20 years with Commerce Casino, a majorLos Angeles-based poker room, that Barbo

established his respected reputation in thegaming industry by focusing on customerservice, business development, and a com-mitment to community partnerships.

Barbo stated, “I have always been a publicrelations person. I love people from all walksof life. I don’t mind being in the center of itall whether it is handling a dispute, enter-taining a celebrity or mentoring an employ-ee. Many of the values and lessons that Ihave learned from friends, family and grow-ing up in the Valley (Mon Valley, Pennsylva-nia) are constantly influencing my manage-ment skills today. Having an excellenteducation foundation gets me through theday-to-day business demands.”

He added, “I feel most fortunate for thepath that my life has taken. I am blessedwith a beautiful wife, Riki, and two wonder-ful sons, Cody a college junior, and Ty, a highschool senior and a great snowboarder.”

Barbo would like to say hello to the com-munity of Bakersfield. He welcomes theopportunity to meet you, please stop by andsay hello. The Golden West Casino is locatedat 1001 S. Union Ave or you can contact 324-6936.



Rick Rhodes, store manager, and board members celebratethe grand opening of Fallas Discount Stores.


Jim Barbo

24 | MÁS August 1, 2010

EDUCATION

On a mission to helpTwo local students volunteer to make world a little betterBy Lisa KimbleSpecial to MÁS

Anyone who thinkstoday’s youth, the Mil-lennial Generation, isa self-absorbed and

self-indulgent lot, obviouslyhas not met Elizabeth Nava orAnthony Baca.

These local students, whoare giving back by paying itforward in the midst of scarcejobs and an even tighter moneysupply, validate studies sug-gesting that people bornbetween 1982 and 2000 arelikely to be more civic-minded.

While most kids luckyenough to find a job are pocket-ing their seasonal earnings, 16-year-old Baca has been spend-ing his wages helping thehomeless. This past winter heworked for his parents doingodd jobs. The money he raisedwent into a large jug he used tosave up in order to buy capsand gloves for the homeless.He estimates he was able toprovide 523 pairs of gloves forthe needy.

“A lot of people don’t knowhow good they have it today,”said Baca, who will be a juniorat Centennial High School nextmonth. “They take so much forgranted. A lot of these peoplein shelters are grateful forwhat they can get.”

Baca was also able to raisemoney through yard sales, ask-ing for donations from familyand friends, car washes andbake sales. He used that moneyto purchase food for the home-less.

This young man began hisvolunteerism early in hisfreshman year of high schoolwhile enrolled in CCD classesat his church, Christ The King.A church-sponsored trip tofeed the homeless triggered

something within him. “We try to do what we can to

make their lives (the homeless)a little better,” Baca said.

Halfway through his highschool years, Baca has alreadygiven back more than many ofhis peers. He is also involved inthe Angel Food Ministries,Centennial’s Interact Club andProject Linus, which providessecurity blankets for the needy.

“We were able to collectover 1,800 blankets this year,”he said.

Baca, while part of a grow-ing trend of young philanthro-pists, is still somewhat atypicalof most high school students.Despite the occasional teasingfrom his peers, he sees a clearpath for his mission to helpothers less fortunate than he.

“I feel happier when I givethan when I receive,” he said.“A lot of my peers are ungrate-

ful and want things like biggerwardrobes, and that made methink that these people are justhappy with what they have.Things could be so muchworse.”

Like Baca, Bakersfield Col-lege student Nava, has felt thestrong pull to help others sinceshe was in high school. Whileat Bakersfield High School,Nava was involved in the His-panic Menudo Cook-offs, theKern Veteran’s Memorial andRelay for Life, for which sheand others were honored witha Beautiful Bakersfield Award.

“To be able to help, even forone day, it should be to makeyour world a little better,”Nava said. “We are such ablessed generation, but wehave gotten so sidetracked inthinking ‘me-me-me.’ It is niceto give back and be grateful forwhat we have and don’t have.”

Nava, 20, is working on herAssociate in Arts degrees inDeaf Studies and History andwill be taking her volunteerismskills to Romania. She and 16other students from KernCounty will be working withthe Children to Love Interna-tional program, a Christianorganization that aims to reachabandoned and orphaned chil-dren around the world with thegospel of Christ.

“We will be spending timewith these orphans who wantour time and touch,” Nava said.

Nava and her fellow volun-teers had to raise an estimated$2,600 each to cover trans-portation, meals and lodging.She did so by selling packagesof cinnamon rolls.

“I really had to ask myself ifI am really strong enough forthe work behind this,” saidNava, whose only trip outsidethe U.S. was to Ensenada on acruise. “I’m so grateful for thisopportunity. Together we aregoing to make an awesometeam.”

The student missionarieswill stay in the capitol ofBucharest where they will visittwo orphanages and work withdisabled children. That iswhen Nava expects the gravityof the experience to hit her.

“I want to go over there andgive them so much love and letthem know that we do careabout them,” she said. “I ampreparing to be affected bywhat I experience. I know thisis going to be a life-changingexperience and I am ready forit.”

Nava knows she will returnhome a changed person.

“I feel I am at a time in mylife where big things are start-ing to happen to make me intothe person I am supposed tobe,” she said.

PHOTO BY TANYA X. LEONZO

Anthony Baca and Elizabeth Nava


Taft College Science, Technology, Engineering

and Math (STEM) education prepares and

inspires learners of all ages to contribute to the

advancement of the global community. The

Taft College STEM activities and resources are

aimed at supporting improvement in quality

STEM education.

Taft CollegeScience • Technology • Engineering • Mathmatics

29 Emmons Park DriveTaft, CA 93268661-763-7700

County Museum, 3801 Chester

Ave. $2; members free. Additional

game/ride tickets, 50 cents; $3

hot dog lunch. Reservations

requested. www.kcmuseum.org

or call 852-5050.

FRIDAY 8/13Bakersfield Blaze vs. VisaliaRawhide, 7:15 p.m. Friday

through Sunday, Sam Lynn Ball

Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $5-$9.

bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS.

SATURDAY 8/14Spanish Storytime, with Clara

Castillo, 3 p.m. Saturday, Barnes

and Noble, 4001 California Ave.

631-2575.

Twilight at CALM, with a

wildlife presentation, scavenger

hunt, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday,

CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell

Highway. Regular admission

prices apply; CALM members are

free. calmzoo.org or 872-2256.

SUNDAY 8/15River Rafting for M.A.R.E.,fundraising event, departure time

10 a.m. Sunday (more runs as

needed), River’s End Rafting &

Adventure Co., 15701 Hwy 178.

$25 per person (must mention

M.A.R.E. to get rate), children

ages 6 and up encouraged to

attend. 866-360-7238.

TUESDAY 8/17Faire in the Park, with food

booths, arts and crafts,

entertainment, peddler’s faire,

children’s corner and more, 6 to 9

p.m. Tuesday, Central Park at Mill

Creek, 21st and R streets. 325-

5892.

WWE Smackdown Live, with

The Undertaker, Rey Mysterio,

Jack Swagger, Matt Hardy, Kofi

Kingston and more, 6:45 p.m.

Tuesday, Rabobank Convention

Center. $15-$60. ticketmaster.com

or call 800-745-3000.

THURSDAY 8/19Concerts by The Fountain, old

school and funk with Truce, 7 to 9

p.m. Thursday, The Marketplace,

9000 Ming Ave.

SATURDAY 8/2125th annual “The Rockin’ Ridefor Life” Poker Run, benefitting

Muscular Dystrophy in Kern

County; with music, food, prizes,

bounce house, face painting, bike

show, 50/50 raffle, registration at

8 a.m., ride leaves at 10 a.m.,

event until 4 p.m., Bakersfield

Harley Davidson, 35089 Merle

Haggard Drive. $25 per

motorcycle; $40 w/two riders.

Email [email protected]

or 325-3644.

ANRA Summer Nationals,Saturday and Sunday, Famoso

Raceway, 33559 Famoso Road,

McFarland.

autoclubfamosoraceway.com or

667-0030.

Bud Light Comedy Jam withDarren Carter & Joe Medina, 8

p.m. Saturday, Fox Theater, 2001

H St. $20, $30 plus fee.


Kids Discover Music, classically

trained musician performs, reads

a story and lets the kids learn up

close and personally about the

music and the instrument, 11 a.m.

to noon Saturday, Russo’s, 9000

Ming Ave. 665-4686.

THURSDAY 8/26Concerts by The Fountain, ska,

rock and funk with Mento Buru, 7

to 9 p.m. Thursday, The

Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave.

SATURDAY 8/28Kids Free Day, last Saturday of

every month, CALM, 10500 Alfred

Harrell Highway. 872-2256.


River R afting for M.A.R.E., Sunday, Aug. 15.

26 | MÁS August 1, 2010

‘Mixx’ it up with Noe G


On July 17 three local business-women were honored by the Lati-na Leaders of Kern County fortheir contributions to the commu-

nity and the example they set for otherLatinas.

The Latinas Leading the Way recogni-tion ceremony, which was held at the FourPoints Sheraton honored Mary AmeliaCavazos-Reyna, a playwright, director,actor, businesswomen, author, reverend,motivational speaker and soon to be film-maker; Ramona Herrera, owner of a StateFarm insurance and financial servicesagency in Shafter; and, Kathryn Lomely,an academic advisor and lecturer at theUniversity of La Verne.

The three women were among ninenominees who where narrowed downbased on professional accomplishmentand community service.

“The ceremony is about recognizing thecontributions and achievements of localLatinas,” said Magda Menendez, a LatinaLeaders of Kern County founding boardmember.

Menendez said that the mission of theLatina Leaders of Kern County is to identi-fy, position and influence key issuesaffecting Latinas in the areas of business,education and government.

The philosophy of the group is todemonstrate compassion, open-minded-ness and inclusiveness while looking foropportunities that develop and supportLatina leadership.

“The board members spend timeencouraging young women to excel andplace a high value on fostering the nextgeneration of women,” Lomely said. “Tobe honored by women whose work youadmire is a very meaningful experience.”

Lomely said that among her greatestaccomplishments are starting and finish-ing coursework for her doctorate in publicadministration — and having someoneexpress to her that what she had to sayreally helped them and had an impact on

their life.Herrera said that being recognized by

the group of Latinas was humbling andoverwhelming.

“I am honored and flattered,” Herrerasaid. “The Latina Leaders are a group ofwomen that do so much for the communi-ty.”

Herrera said her greatest accomplish-ment is helping families, one family at atime.

Cavazos-Reyna said she has always hadthe support of the Latina Leaders of KernCounty.

“Receiving the prestigious LatinasLeading the Way Award is an incrediblehonor on both a personal and professionallevel, and especially esteemed because itis a tribute from my peers,” Cavazos-Reyna said. “Latina Leaders of KernCounty have always supported my endeav-ors. When my book ‘Love Thyself: a LifeGuide for Women’ was published, theyasked me to speak at various events, host-ed a reading and book signing party for meand they bought my book.”

Cavazos-Reyna said her greatestaccomplishment has been being able tojump-start her 11-year-old daughter,Madalynn’s, career.

“As Chef Maddie, she is teaching otherkids how to make nutritious and deliciousmeals and after school snacks for them-selves and their families,” Cavazos-Reynasaid. “Because of her, I now have a fewnew titles: agent, manager, co-host andchief bottle washer!”

Along with the three honorees, 30 par-ticipants of the Hispanas Organized for

Political Equality (HOPE) program wererecognized. The program is a nonprofitleadership/training program dedicated toeconomic and political empowerment ofLatinas. The trainees are recruited fromthroughout the state.

The three honored businesswomen hadsome advice for these future Latina lead-ers.

“My best advice is to give it your whole-heart, challenge yourself and share,”Lomely said. “You can accomplish any-thing if your whole heart is in it. Anythingless would be cheating yourself and peoplewill know the difference.

“Do not waste time surfing the net forgossip this summer, but challenge yourselfto learn something new or polish a skillyou already possess. Lastly, share yourgifts and talents with others. I guaranteethat you will learn something valuablefrom them as they learn something valu-able from you.”

Herrera suggested these up and comingLatinas set out to become who they weremeant to be with determination, hard workand persistence.

“My advice to young Latinas in theHOPE program — as well as to youngwomen everywhere — is to contact profes-sionals and leaders in their community tofind out what it took for them to arrive attheir career destination,” Cavazos-Reynasaid.

“Hearing how others have overcomeobstacles to succeed in their particularfield can provide our youth with positivementoring along with a wealth of informa-tion on career choices.”

COMMUNITY

Outstanding Latinaleaders honored bytheir peers

Leadership recognized


Linda Quiñones-Vaughan, Magda Menendez, Wendy Avila, Esther Torres and Nicole Parra.

August 1, 2010 MÁS | 27

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Wow, four moremonths and it’sChristmas, lol. Bigups to recording

artist Sean Kingston and TheNew Boyz for coming throughtown for a Hot 94.1 meet &greet. Asher Roth also camethrough and hung out withnighttime jock, Flawless. IceCube and Snoop Dog broughttheir “How The West WasWon” Tour to the Fox Theaterand rocked the house.

Congrats to Kathy Lomelyfor being honored at thisyear's “Latina's Leading theWay” annual awards banquet.Special birthday shout-out toNico & Casey Garcia.

Had a chance to visitAudrey's Café, 1641 UnionAve., and I give it two thumbsup. The place is great, and thefood is made with lots of love,taste really homemade. Try it.

Latina iconBirthday shout-out to

Dolores Huerta who turns 80this month. In fact, the humanrights activist will celebrateher birthday with “WeavingMovements Together,” a ben-efit concert featuring leg-endary Carlos Santana Aug.13 at the Greek Theater in LA.Tickets start at $35 at ticket-master.com. This party is co-hosted by actors Martin Sheenand Benjamin Pratt, MayorAntonio Villaraigosa and Cul-ture Clash. Also performing

Pete Escovedos Band and rap-per-activist Zack de la Rocha.

Lowrider timeA shout-out to Alex Garza

whose sweet 1977 Monte Car-lo made the cover of Lowridermagazine! Very nice, bro.Speaking of lowriders, beready for the LowriderNationals Smoking SummerSlam 2010 car show 11 a.m. to5 p.m. today at the Kern Coun-ty Fairgrounds. Hitting theBudweiser Pavilion stage isWest Coast recording artistDJ Quik, Baby Bash, the 123guy recording artist BobbyBracken, Brown Boy, TinoCochino, JuneBug Slim, localartist Geek'd Up and more.Tickets are $25 at Metro PCS,Tacos de Huicho and La Can-tina or at the gate. Visit

lowridernationals.com

How far is heavenGet ready for Los Lonely

Boys with special guest, TheDelgado Brothers, Aug. 4, atFox Theater. You don't wannamiss it. Tickets are $25-$45 atvallitix.com or call 322-5200 &ask for La Josie. See youthere.

Comedy timeBud Light Comedy Jam &

Icon Concerts welcomes "“TheParty Starter” comedians JoeMedina and Darren Carter tothe Fox Theater 7 p.m. Aug.21. Tickets are $20-$30 at val-litix.com. DJ Cooch will hostthis show so make plans tolaugh your nalgas off.

Rock the houseAlso at 7 p.m. Aug. 21, the

Laser Tag Tour, featuringrecording group, Far EastMovement, will rock thehouse with special guests,

Hypercrush and The Cataracsand Dev at the Nile. Ticketsare $20-$25. Call Julius at669-3226. DJ Virman will bein the mix with hosts Flawlessand Dirty Sanchez. This one ishooked up by MiragrafxMedia & 66one.com.

All right, my peeps, makesure you show love at theseevents. If you are out on Fri-day, visit me at The MarriottHotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. in theLounge. Be ready for some oldschool, cumbias, classics andmore. No cover.

Remember don’t drink anddrive and don’t be hating.

Peace out and much love,

Noe G!Shout-outs to: Buck Owens

— Happy Birthday Buck! Otis@ Groove, the homie, DJDamage, Rudy Sanchez andthe party crew. Thanks for thesupport!

NO E G.

IN THE MIXX

By NOE G.Contributing ColumnistHave an event you want toshare with MÁS? E-mail: [email protected]

‘Mixx’ it up with Noe G

PHOTO COURTESY

Bakersfield’s Alex Garza was proud to have his Monte Carlo appearon the cover of Lowrider magazine.

By Luz PeñaSpecial to MÁS

It’s the love of music,friendship and the familybonds that keeps localcover band Grupo Aztlan

jamming together for the past35 years. You’ve probably seenor heard them at yourcomadre’s wedding or at some-one’s Quinceañera or anothermonumental occasion. Mostrecently, they’ve graced St.Francis Church’s YMI groupwith their smooth sounds.

“Sometimes people willcome up to me and say ‘Hey, doyou remember me? You playedat my wedding,’” said FredSubia, the group’s vocalist andtrumpet player. “It’s great thatthey remember you. Rightnow, it feels good that we’rehelping out St. Francis.”

Grupo Aztlan was formed bySubia, his cousin Phillip Cas-taneda and Tom Rey. At thetime, Subia’s band ‘Thin Ice’had broken up and he was look-ing for another band to per-form with. Rey had the sameproblema.

“I was part of a band called‘The Elites.’ We broke up, Imet Fred and we became a newgroup,” said Rey, who singsand plays keyboards and trum-pet. “We’ve been playingtogether every since then.”

At a recent random practicesession at Rey’s house thegrupo sat down and reminiscedabout old times like they wereat a family reunion. The grouphas no set schedule for practice,unless it’s time for an upcominggig. As they like to say “wepractice when we feel like it.”

“What makes this bandwork is we don’t see this as ajob, but as a hobby or a way tohave fun,” said Subia. “We’veall had other jobs and this issomething we just do on theside. A lot of other bands dothis as a job and that’s why a lot

of them don’t last.”Grupo Aztlan members

range from 21 to 67 years inage. Second generation mem-bers include vocalist CatherineRey, the daughter of Tom, anddrummer Gilbert Subia Jr., theson of former member GilbertSubia.

“I remember as a little girlhearing them perform and Iwould say ‘That’s cockroachmusic,’” said Catherine, with alaugh. “Little did I know,they’d be dragging me in too.”

Practice began with Subia’ssoulful rendition of ‘Confessinga Feeling’ by Sly, Slick and theWicked.

Despite health complica-tions from diabetes, Subia putall his heart and energy intothe song. He said he’d be play-ing until he can’t sing anymore.Some members are retiredwhile others work in the oilfields, as teachers or in com-puter technology.

To keep the crowds happy,the group plays an array ofmusic — old school, oldies,Spanish ballads, cumbiasincluding songs from la Reinade Tex Mex Selena.

“We play standards, corri-

dos and trios,” Subia said. “Weplay songs like ‘New York, NewYork.” Added Rey, “We enter-tain those who are two to 102(years old).”

The next song at practicewas Catherine singing “ComoLa Flor” by Selena, althoughthe band was divided onwhether to practice “Como LaFlor” or “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom.”

Catherine danced while shebelted out the cumbia classic,then quickly moved to standand sing by her dad’s side, ashe skillfully played the key-board without missing a beat.Steve Ornelas rocked out with

his “girls” Mary and Cindy —his guitars. Other members,Nino Macias on guitar andRudy Hernandez on bass, keptup with Gilbert’s drum solo.

By their laughter, it was agood practice. Although thegroup has had changes in itslineup over the years becauseof death or members leaving topursue other interests, it hasalways been a band of six orseven members.

“The beauty of this is we nev-er did this for the fame or forthe money, but to have a goodtime,” said Subia. “Oooh, whatgood times we’re having.”

28 | MÁS August 1, 2010

ENTERTAINMENT

Grupo Aztlan Still drumming up ‘goodtimes’ 35 years later


The talented Grupo Aztlan: Rudy Hernandez, Fred Subia, Tom Rey, Catherine Rey, Steve Ornelas,Gilbert Subia, and Nino Macias.


Drummer Gilbert Subia is part of the second-generation mem-bers to join the group.

August 1, 2010 MÁS |29

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If only everything in life were this easy.

WE’RE ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT YOU

Keeping a community happy and healthy isn’t easy. We know that.

And we know it takes more than a hospital to do it. It takes partners who care as much about the welfare of Kern County as we do.

That’s why Bakersfield Memorial Hospital seeks out great organizations that help us help you. Like Children’s Miracle Network, which raises millions for the kids who come to us for medical care. Kohl’s Cares for Kids, which donates profits from merchandise to programs that help young people avoid injuries,

diabetes, asthma and obesity. And Ronald McDonald House Charities, which offers families a nice place to stay on campus when their children are hospitalized.

This community built our hospital back in the 1950s—and you can rest assured that we’ll always be here for you. Building partnerships to help us serve the community we all live in….every minute, every day.

So, if you’ve got concerns, ideas, or plans for the well-being of the community we all love...It’s OK. We want to hear from you.

KNOW GOOD HEALTH? Play the “Memorial Game of Life” atwww.ItsOKBakersfield.com You could win some great prizes!

420 34th Street Bakersfield, CA 93301(661) 327- 4647 | www.BakersfieldMemorial.org Become a fan on Facebook

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Documents

MAS Magazine - August 2010!