mas magazine - january 2010

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Comida del MundoThis month, we take our comidarecipes to an international level!

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

FELIX ADAMO, DANIELA GARCIA,

JEREMY GONZALEZ, JOHN HARTE,

TANYA X. LEONZO, RODNEY THORNBURG

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

STAFF

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

Granting wishesA Kern County office for Make-A-Wishgroup returns to help sick children.

6

12

ON THE COVER: CarlosChavez, a real estate agent, isone of several local businesspeople to participate in our Business Outlook 2010 issue.Each person reflects on 2009and previews what may be instore for 2010. See the Q & A’s,starting on page 14.

PHOTO BY: Tanya X. Leonzo

Business OutlookLocal business people reflect on2009 & prepare for a brighter 2010.

14

Bless the childrenVolunteers reflect on the impact of anice skating event for foster children.

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Ready to rock!Ceci Bastida looks to break throughmusical barriers & rock on!

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CONTENTSJA N UA RY 2 0 1 0

ARTGlenn Hammett Design Editor

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It’s the start of the año nuevo, anddefinitely a time of hope and opti-mism.

In 2009, the recession took a hiton many fronts. As I think back to thispast year, I can hear the voices of mylate abuelos: “Hay que tener fe.”

You have to have faith.You have to believe.For that, I have lots of hope and faith

that 2010 will move us forward.In this issue, we asked local success-

ful business professionals to share theiroutlook for 2010.

Many of them are thinking positive,but agree it will require our owninvolvement, creativity and desire toadelantar.

MÁS Magazine is excited about 2010,too, and we plan to kick it off by hostinga mixer with Kern County Hispanic

Chamber of Commerce in February.To stay tuned, make sure you have

signed up to receive our newsletteralerts through our Web site. Moredetails to come as it will definitely be amuch-celebrated, signature MÁS event.

Also, read inside of stories by localcommunity members who recently vol-unteered and mentored foster children.

I’ll share one excerpt from Dee Slade,an amazing local woman who continuesto inspire many:

“It felt good to share an afternoonwith my future leaders. To let the chil-dren know I accept them as they are; itwas my pleasure to give encouragement,extend respect, structure, order, uncon-ditional love, and endorse patience andtolerance in reaching for their goals inlife.”

Now that’s hope.

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

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COMMUNITY NOTICIAS

Local office of Make-A-Wish makes returnBy Lisa KimbleSpecial to MÁS

As Pinocchio’s JiminyCricket sings in theDisney classic, if onlymaking dreams come

true was as easy as wishingupon a star.

Until that time, the Make-A-Wish Foundation — the largestwish-granting charity in theworld — continues to serve as amagic wand, turning dreamsinto reality for thousands ofchildren struggling with life-threatening conditions.

And now, the group has re-opened a local office.

Since 1980, the premier wish-granting organization hashelped illuminate the lights ofhope for youngsters, whether itbe a new guitar or a game ofcatch with a New York Yankee.

“Many times the wish grant-ed to them is part of the restora-tive, healing process,” saidAngene Griff, a Kern Countyvolunteer with the Make-a-WishFoundation of Central Califor-nia.

“Our mission is a pure andsimple one, to grant the wishesof children with life-threateningillnesses or medical conditions,ages 2 to 18, to give them hope,strength and joy,” said Cather-ine Anspach, Kern County’sMake-A-Wish community direc-tor.

Until last September, KernCounty hadn’t had a Bakersfieldoffice since it closed in 2004.Overwhelming local support ledto the re-opening of a satelliteoffice here.

The return of a Kern chapterwas certainly needed. Of the 88wishes granted in the CentralValley last year, 41 percentwere in Kern County, accordingto Anspach.

“Our pure, simple mission —coupled with the unique envi-ronment of Kern County wherepeople are so giving — is thereason Make-A-Wish has been

so successful here, despite nothaving an office here for severalyears,” she added. “This touch-es people.”

The Central California Fres-no office of the Make-A-WishFoundation serves nine countiesin the central part of the state,from Merced to the Grapevineand Kern County, where thehighest number of wishes aregranted.

There are four types of wish-es: To go, to be, to meet and tohave, Anspach said. Thoseenriching experiences haveincluded trips to Disneyland,being a policeman for a day,meeting Miley Cyrus and ashopping spree.

And not all the dreamers arebattling life-threatening condi-tions that are terminal, Anspachsaid.

For example, one little boynamed Logan, 3, has Rhab-domyosarcoma and wishes foran outdoor play structure. Anto-nio, 5, needs a liver transplantand wishes for a Disney Carsthemed bedroom. Fifteen-year-old Emmie has heart diseaseand wishes to be featured inSeventeen Magazine.

The average cost of wishgranting is $5,000. Since theorganization’s humble begin-ning, more than 170,000 wisheshave been granted. The pricetag of the dreams is covered by

“Our mission is a pureand simple one, togrant the wishes ofchildren with life-

threatening illnessesor medical conditions,ages 2 to 18, to givethem hope, strength

and joy”Catherine Anspach, Kern CountyMake-A-Wish community director


COMMUNITY NOTICIAS

On Jan. 30, the AutismSociety Chapter-KernAutism Network willpresent “Lanterman

Fair Hearing,” a workshop forparents, teachers and anyoneworking with autistic individu-als. The workshop will be heldat the Kern County Superinten-dent of Schools office, 130017th St., Room 1B, in Bakers-field, from 8:30 a.m. until noon.

“Through regional centersand other agencies, the State ofCalifornia provides valuableservices to people with devel-opmental disabilities. Theseservices are coordinated by thestate Department of Develop-mental Services and authorizedby the Lanterman Develop-mental Disabilities ServicesAct.

To qualify for state funding,a regional center or develop-

mental center (also called aservice agency) must ensurethat its decisions are fair and inthe recipient’s best interest.When a recipient is dissatisfiedwith a center’s decision, theAct permits the recipient to filea request for a fair hearing.”

For details on the Lanter-man Act Fair Hearing Processby the State of CaliforniaOffice of Administrative Hear-ings (OAH), go to:http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/oah/forms/Fair%20Hear-ing%20Brochure%202003-11-19.pdf

This workshop will addresswhat is the Lanterman FairHearing, define the LantermanAct, then review this process.Jeff Popkin, Associate Directorof Kern Regional Center, willbe the presenter.

Join other parents and pro-

fessionals in learning why thislaw is important to families ofthose with disabilities and howit can empower people withinformation to assist in helpingan autistic child reach his high-est level of self-sufficiency.

Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. Thisworkshop is free. Seating islimited to 60 and reservationsare required.

To register to attend, contactRamona Puget at 661-588-4235or e-mail:[email protected].

Autism Society Chapter-Kern Autism Network providessupport, awareness, informa-tion and education to families,professionals and the publicthroughout Kern County.

For more information, go to:www.kernautism.org.

Autism workshop set for Jan. 30armies of volunteers like Griffhelping stage fundraisers attheir local level.

This year’s Second annual“Evening of Wishes” Make-A-Wish Dinner Dance set for Jan.30 in Bakersfield is sold out. Butthose wishing to make the wish-es of others come true can stillhelp in a variety of ways, Griffadded.

The fundraiser is but oneevent of many Make-A-Wishways to help make a dreamcome true.

“There are so many differentways, from the grassroots levelto the sophisticated,” she said.

One of the ways, organizerssay, is to adopt a wish.

“It touches so many differentkinds of families and children.Make-A-Wish allows people togive these children a piece of anormal life that they don’thave,” said Griff.

— For more informationand/or to donate to Make-A-


COMMUNITY

Young girlleaves lastingimpression

This event provided a tremen-dous opportunity to speak to thechildren who are often over-whelmed by the court process.Many did not understand whathappens in a courtroom, or felt thatthey did not have a voice, and somesadly felt the decisions made wereunfair.

My hope is that speaking to thechildren uncloaked the courtprocess. I conveyed to them to feelsafe in a courtroom, to let some-body — the CASA volunteer or ajudge — know how they feel. I alsosaid that judges try to make deci-sions in their best interests. Duringmy discussions with the children, Iwore my robe and at the end ofeach chat, I unzipped it, took it offand revealed that I was a personjust like them. It appeared the sim-ple gesture worked; based on thereactions I received.

One young girl left me with awonderful memory. I asked eachchild what they would like to do asan adult. Some said that they didnot know, I replied they had plentyof time to figure that out. The girl,though, told me she wanted to be alawyer or a surgeon. She said prob-ably be a lawyer because the sightof blood made her queasy. Ithought that was cute.

Later, as my wife, Debbie, a vol-unteer, was getting children seatedfor the magic show, I saw the samegirl. She saw Debbie and calledout, “Hey judge, is that your wife?”I said yes and took a seat behindthe girl for the magic show. Sheturned and said I was lucky to havea nice wife.

Again, she talked about her hopeto become a lawyer or a surgeon.Her comment about my wifetouched me because I realized howeach child yearned to have a nor-mal family life and how hard itmust be for them. The girl obvious-ly valued just seeing a husband andwife together.

I will always remember thisyoung girl and my experience.

— Judge Steven Katz

At the holidays, thephrase, “It’s better togive than to receive” isused quite frequently.

On Dec. 12, ChildrenJoining Children For Success putthat saying into action.

The effort is all about the kids,foster kids. And the primary goalof CJCS is to plant a positive seedin these children that will one daygrow into success as an adult.

Although the event centeredaround a day of free ice skating,there were many instances ofhopeful moments that warmed

hearts of the children whoreceived the positive reinforce-ment and the volunteers who gavethose encouraging messages.

Here at MÁS, we’ve assembleda collection of thoughts written bysome of the people who partici-pated in the event. They expectedto be the givers — only to findthemselves receiving the kinds ofgifts that are truly priceless.

— For details on CJCS, call 631-2904 or go to: www.cjcfs.org. E-mail: [email protected] are encouraged to partici-pate as well — contact CJCS.

The act of giving

Clock-wise, fromtop left.Linda Quiñones-Vaughan, AdelaGomez, AnissaGomez, and SylviaMendez-Sala. Sandra Serrano,president of theKern CommunityCollege District.Luis Aguilar (ownerof El Pueblo Restau-rant in Lamont)helps serve freemeals to the kids.

PHOTOS BY TANYA X.LEONZO


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Festival of goodwillTouching children’s lives in a

meaningful manner can beaccomplished in an infinitenumber of ways. A hug, a com-pliment, a pat on the shoulder, afree warm meal, fishing at amountain stream or enjoying anice skating experience canimpact a child’s psyche in wayswe can only imagine.

Many of us who haveachieved a modest modicum ofsuccess can recall a specialmoment with a special personthat inspired us to pursue loftygoals and to believe in our-selves. Making the effort to cre-ate these special moments forfoster children is always impor-tant. Just participating in theprocess of reaching these spe-cial children and reaffirmingtheir humanity is beneficial toboth the mentor and mentee.

I enjoyed talking with the fos-

ter parents and stand in awe oftheir commitment. The storiesthe mentors shared with thechildren were moving. I sharedmy camera with the children,allowing them to take photos offamilies and friends andencouraging them to nurturetheir creative side. I appreciat-ed the questions posed to me bythe children about being a judgeand felt they sensed my concernfor their well-being with mypresence and responses.

Whether I impacted a child’slife in a positive way last Satur-day is beyond my grasp. What Ido know is that the entire eventwas an orchestration of love andonly good can result from suchan endeavor.

Thank you for the opportuni-ty to partake in that festival ofgoodwill.

— Judge Robert Tafoya

Being a part of the ChildrenJoining Children for Success(CJCFS) event was a rewardingexperience. I am 19 years old,busy with school and work, andI have never had the opportuni-ty to take time to help give backto my community.

My experience with CJCFSwas exciting. I was waiting inone of the donated arena suitesfor the youth I was to mentor.While waiting, I was lookingdown at the children ice skating.It really made me feel good thatI was a part of helping these stu-dents. I realized I didn’t want tostay in the suite all day — Iwanted to help teach these chil-dren to ice skate!

I don’t even remember howquickly I went from sitting togathering a group of children,putting on skates, and off intothe rink we went. I had a groupof three young girls. They allheld me close. It was sad to

imagine where they were com-ing from. But these girls had bigdreams. The youngest was 5,and wanted to be “the lady thathelps the animals when they’rereally sick.” The other was 6,she wanted to be an ice skater,and the oldest was 10, she want-ed to write books.

It is my belief anything is pos-sible for these girls. At such ayoung age, it surprised me thedrive each had deep withinthem. A drive stronger thanmost college students of my agehave today. Even I learnedsomething from them; not totake anything for granted and tokeep going until you reach yourgoal. I am grateful SylviaMendez and my grandmotherbrought me on board to experi-ence this event. This event wasgood, I hope future events growand are better!

— Jesika Hicks, student vol-unteer

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It was a brisk Saturdaymorning. The heartfelt enthu-siasm and commitment of eachvolunteer sent energy throughthe arena foyer. Hundreds ofchildren waited outside withhope. Countless racing towardthe best line that would allowthem immediate access intowhat many had never experi-enced; an opportunity to meetwith leaders to speak abouttheir future, enjoy a simplemeal and ice skate with Santa.

Some may ask, what madethis moment special?

I’d simply respond, thesechildren struggle daily withtolerance issues, adversity andbelieving in themselves. Yet,for this one moment, they notonly had hope for the day, buthope for their future. Onecould not help but fully engage

in this event. Volunteers andcoordinators — comprised ofjudges, doctors, lawyers, edu-cators and business leaders —were present to invest theirtime. Many of these individu-als have had their own person-al challenges during theirchildhood.

The spirit was infectious.The day was filled with opti-mism and yet there weremoments of heartbreak andanguish, such as when the chil-dren did not want to end theirday. The warmth of a smileand an embrace from someonewho cared, or the simplepleasure of easy conversationwas evident in their eyes;many struggled to walk away.

I witnessed children beingmoved by not only the simplegestures of those who were

helping them to experiencethis moment, but by the gen-uine interest that every persontook in their future. We can allremember a time when wewere motivated by someone’sencouragement. Imagine whatcould happen if our communi-ty as a whole could offer thissense of interest and commit-ment to these children.

My personal gratitude isextended to the volunteers fortheir countless hours of work,to the Event Chair SylviaMendez-Sala, for her unwa-vering vision, and to those inthis community who are mak-ing a daily difference for chil-dren who need a voice, a gen-tle hand and hope to help themachieve.

— Linda Quiñones-Vaughan, co-chair

Hopeful moments abound

Attorney H.A. Sala, aka “SantaClaus,” spent five hours on theice, skating with foster children.


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COMMUNITY

H.A. Sala’s testimonial:Santa’s ‘nice list’ grows,thanks to acts of kindness

I spent approximately fivehours skating as Santa Clauswith hundreds of children. Theinattention to physical hygiene,lack of nurturing, sadness and,at times, despair on their faceswas evident. However, as theymet Santa and got on the ice toskate, the sadness was replacedwith brimming smiles.

Most of the children hadnever ice skated before, andmany asked Santa to teach themhow to skate. One 7-year old lit-tle girl, who ice skated for thefirst time, bragged to herfriends that Santa taught her toskate. When asked by Santawhat she wanted for Christmas,she humbly replied, “A couchwould be nice.”

As the children giggled andlaughed as they skated aroundthe rink, they set aside theirtroubled little lives — and forthat day, they experienced thejoy and wonder of Christmas.

The opportunity for the figureskaters to assist the childrenwith learning how to skate,many of whom were the sameage as the court-dependent chil-dren, brought out compassion,kindness and a true sense ofnurturing in the figure skaters.The figure skaters embracedthe children with tender words,held their hands, smotheredthem with hugs and demonstrat-ed to each of the children theyencountered that they were wel-comed, that they were impor-tant and that they were loved.

Everywhere one could hearthe figure skaters asking thechildren, “What’s your name?Do you need help?” making thecourt-dependent children feeltruly welcomed. For the firsttime, the cycle of rejection wasbroken. No longer did they feelrejected, but they felt that theywere wanted and welcomed byother children their ages and by

the compassionate adult volun-teers.

This event demonstrated tothe figure skaters how truly for-tunate they are and was aninvaluable experience for them.Humanity, kindness and com-passion were demonstratedthrough the act of childrentoward other children in need.The figure skaters’ interactionwith the court-dependent chil-dren demonstrated the coreobjective of Children JoiningChildren For Success, of notonly helping the figure skatersto become better human beings,but also helping the court-dependent children in realizingthe they are important and thatthere are others who believe intheir potential to overcome theirpersonal obstacles.

It is difficult, if not impossi-ble, to strive for and attain suc-cess if one experiences constantrejection and a lack of self-esteem. This event replacedrejection with acceptance andelevated the self-esteem of eachof these children to levels wemay never know. Only thefuture will tell. However, whatis clear is that events such asthis one should continue andnever be abandoned.

My wife, Sylvia, came acrossa 10-year-old young boy whohad attended the event past yearat Bakersfield Ice Sports Cen-ter. He said to Sylvia, “Ma’am,do you remember me?” Sylviastated, “Of course, I do. I am sohappy you are back again,” asshe gave him a big hug. Thevery caring foster group parentstated to Sylvia, “He has beenwaiting for this event all yearlong and has worked very hardin school and at home to be ableto attend. Thank you so muchfor your kindness.”

— H.A. Sala, attorney

SOPA DE PLATANOS/PLANTAIN SOUP(Puerto Rico)

Shredded plantains and freshcilantro combine in a refreshingPuerto Rican soup.

Ingredients:3 green plantains, peeled (see Tip)

1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup finely chopped freshcilantro, divided

8 cups reduced-sodium chickenbroth

1 1/2 cups water

1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

8 teaspoons finely shreddedParmesan cheese

8 lime wedges

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 25-30 minutes

Serves: 8 servings, about 1 cupeach

Directions:1. Shred plantains using thelarge holes of a box grater.

2. Heat oil in a large saucepanover medium heat. Add garlicand 1/4 cup cilantro; cook,stirring, until the garlic issoftened, 1 to 2 minutes. Addbroth and water and bring to aboil. Stir in plantains and reduceheat to a simmer. Simmer untilthe plantains are tender and thesoup is thickened, 25 to 30minutes. Stir in the remaining1/4 cup cilantro and season withsalt and pepper. Sprinkle eachserving with 1 teaspoonParmesan cheese and garnishwith a lime wedge.

Tip:Plantains are usually soldunderripe with green-yellow skin— just what you’ll need for thisrecipe. (A ripe plantain, withblack-yellow skin, should not beused instead.) Find them atlarge supermarkets or Hispanicmarkets. To peel an unripeplantain, slice off both ends andcut into 3-inch lengths. Usingthe tip of a paring knife, cut 4lengthwise slits along eachpiece. Soak in ice waterfor 3 to 5minutes toloosentheskin.

Remove from the water andpeel.

Nutritional Value Per Serving:121 calories; 2 g fat (1 g sat, 1 gmono); 6 mg cholesterol; 23 gcarbohydrates; 6 g protein; 2 gfiber; 315 mg sodium; 346 mgpotassium.

Source: EatingWell.com


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CEVICHE DEVERDURAS/VEGETARIAN CEVICHESALAD(South America)The exciting flavors of aceviche marinade work just aswell for vegetables as they dofor seafood, and it would be ashame for those who don’t likeseafood to miss out on them!Fresh mozzarella cheesereplaces the raw fish in thishealthy salad, which also hasthe traditional marinatedonions, hot chile peppers,Andean choclo corn and othercolorful vegetables.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Serves: Serves 2 as a maincourse, or 4 as a side dish orappetizer.

Ingredients:1/2 red onion

3 limes

1 red pepper

1/2 cup cooked corn (choclo ifavailable)

1 avocado

1 /2 aji amarillo chile pepper,or other hot pepper

8 ounces fresh mozzarellacheese

1/4 cup cilantro leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:1. Slice the onion very thinlyinto half-moon slices and placethem in a bowl of salt water.Add the juice of 1 lime andleave them to marinate for atleast 20 minutes.

2. Chop the red pepper andplace in a bowl with the corn.

3. Finely chop the chile pepperand toss with the vegetables.

4. Chop the avocado andmozzarella cheese into small(1/2 inch) cubes and add to thebowl.

5. Drain the onions and add tothe other vegetables. Toss the

salad gently with the juice ofthe 2 remaining limes, andseason with salt and pepperto taste.

6. Marinate salad in therefrigerator for 15 minutes,covered with saran wrap.

7. Coarsely chop the cilantroand toss the salad gentlyonce more, incorporating thechopped cilantro.

8. Serve immediately.

Source:southamericanfood.about.com


BUSINESS OUTLOOK 2010

Name: Ruth DarringtonTitle: Owner of Kuka’s Folk Art

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: It was scary at the beginning of the year, and then it started

to look a little bit better. Now, I can see that it has bottomedout and seems to be moving up.

Q: How did you deal with any challenges in your business thislast year?

A: I was really careful about the amount of inventory I was car-rying. I also asked my suppliers for their best bargains.

Q: What did you learn about your business and yourself thislast year?

A: I learned that my business is going to be around for a longtime. I found myself being really thankful for the people whoare loyal to us.

Q: What does it take for a small retail business to stand outand bring in the customers?

A: They have to absolutely have a unique product. They have toknow who their competition is — and the most importantthing is service. We have to give the best service.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: You know, I see 2010 as the light at the end of the tunnel. I

think 2010 will be the year we get outside of the tunnel.

— Compiled by Gabriel Ramirez/Special to MÁS

Ruth Darrington: Thelight shines bright

Local business leaders talk aboutthe past year & what lies ahead

Michael Guerra: Don’ttake things for grantedName: Michael GuerraTitle: Controller/Fourth-Generation Partner, Mexicali Restau-

rants

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: The restaurant business has slowed down. We have a lot of our

regular customers who kept us going. We experienced a littlebit of a slow down, but not to the extent of others. Even thoughthings were slower than last year, our name, reputation andgood service helped.

Q: How did you deal withany challenges in yourbusiness this last year?A: When it came to suppli-ers and merchandise, wehad to be tougher with ourvendors and products. Weshopped around more inorder to be able to controlour food costs and tightenup on excesses.

Q: What did you learnabout your business andyourself this last year?A: I learned that eventhough you have a goodname and solid business,you can’t take it for grant-ed. I learned you need toexpand the way you thinkabout how you approachthings. One of the biggestthings I learned was to

keep employees motivated. They got hit, too.

Q: Why do you think you and other restaurants have survivedwhen others in the industry did not?

A: We have learned to not get too far ahead of ourselves. Ratherthan expand and expand, as so many have suggested, wedecided to manage and improve what we have and stay withour core consistency and keeping good employees.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: I still see a challenge comparable to 2009. If commodity prices

don’t go up too high, we’ll be OK. I think 2010 will be about thesame, as long as we can keep the prices down.

— Compiled by Lisa Kimble/Special to MÁS


Name: Art CarbajalTitle: General Manager, Red Lion Inn

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: It is very bleak right now. We are at the industry standard,

which is a 5 percent to 10 percent loss in business becausepeople are not traveling right now.

Q: How did you deal with any challenges in your business thislast year?

A: We tried to be more creative in the ways we use our staff. Ifwe lost a staffmember, insteadof hiring back areplacement, wespread that job toexisting staff whomight be asked todo several jobs.This year, insteadof bringing some-one in to trim ourChristmas trees,the staff decoratedthem. They weremore invested andbought into thefact that things areslow and theymight be asked todo things outsidetheir job descrip-tion. We also foundcreative ways to

reach out to the community.


A: Initially, we were courting heavily the Hispanic market. Ilearned that it is all the same market. If you make peopleaware … that the Red Lion Inn wants everyone’s business ...it all becomes the same market. Every event is a good eventto have. Since becoming general manager last year, therewere a trillion tiny things that I have had to learn and trainmy brain to multi-task.

Q: Do you expect a boon in visitors, conferences and book-ings in the coming months for you and the local hotelindustry?

A: We are doing really well booking into next year. Our cityand event planners are doing a great job!

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: I’m a positive person, so I hope it will be a better year. If you

streamline and get creative, you will get better at what youdo.


Art Carbajal:Streamline, get creative

Name: Luis AguilarTitle: Owner of El Pueblo Restaurant

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: Very tough. I see a lot of my friends and a lot of different owners

going through hard times. It is very tough!

Q: How did you deal with any challenges in your business this lastyear?

A: Well, a good business in my personal opinion means just takingcare of customers, taking care of service and offering quality. Ihave not had to lay-off people, but I have had to cut back hours. Ithink I have been very lucky.

Q: What did you learn about your business and yourself this lastyear?

A: I learned that to keep a good business you have to work hard,take care of the customers and take care of the business.

Q: What effect will next year’s economy have on your fundraisingefforts?

A: Well, this year, we are feeding the homeless for Christmas Eve.We open the doors of the restaurant to all of the homeless and weanticipate having a lot more walk-ins this year. Next year, theway things are going, perhaps we will have even more.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: I think by six months it will start picking up, but it will be a very

slow journey. There are still a lot of people still losing their jobs,but I have a feeling it will get better. It cannot get worse. I wishall my neighbors good luck.


Luis Aguilar: El Puebloowner counts blessings



Carlos Chavez: Gettingreal on real estateName: Carlos Osvaldo Chavez Title: Real estate agent

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: Home inventory was low and most of those homes were

owned by banks, who Ibelieve decided to release afew at a time to minimize thedecline of home values.There was also a consider-ably large number of buy-ers—in great part because ofthe stimulus credit of $8,000that the government offered.There was little, to no, appre-ciation on most houses thisyear. Overall, it was anunstable real estate econo-my.

Q: How did you deal with anychallenges in your businessthis last year?A: It was an unstable market

in great part due to the considerably large amount of buyers,who when making an offer had to face competition with otherbuyers and multiple offers. In some cases, offers rose as highas $30,000 to $40,000 above asking price. This created frus-tration among buyers, who, in some cases, had to make mul-tiple offers just to get a little piece of the pie.


A: What I learned the most about last year is that educatingyourself with the latest updates and laws in real estate couldhave an advantage in providing the best tools and tips to yourbuyers and sellers. Clientele deserve to be stress free andhave peace of mind.

Q: What can people look forward to next year in the housingmarket?

A: It all depends on the interest rates, the inventory and theunemployment rate. I personally believe we will finally hitthe bottom for good and stability in the market will be notice-able. My advice is to purchase, now that prices and interestrates are at record lows. Also keep in mind that the tax creditwas extended until April 30, 2010.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: The market repeats itself like a rollercoaster. Things will get

back to normal very soon — at least we hope. We are at thebottom of the rollercoaster, with the potential of sky rocket-ing again in the future. It may take three, four or five years,but one thing for sure is that real estate is still the bestinvestment for a more secure future.



Manuel Arriola:Change is possibleName: Manuel ArriolaTitle: Allstate Insurance Agent/Hispanic Chamber Founda-

tion Member

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: The economy was brutal. That pretty much summarizes it.

Q: How did you deal with any challenges in your businessthis last year?

A: By being sympathetic and empathetic. You try to listen toyour clients and make adjustments in accordance with whatthey are saying.


A: I learned to have a better attitude and to be thankful withwhat you have and not taking things for granted.

Q: How do you think the insurance industry will rebound inthe months ahead?

A: It will be difficult. The challenge for the industry will be tobalance the issue of cost and value of service. For the con-sumer, it is all about the ability to get value for the leastamount of cost.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: We all want the best for all of us, our families and the com-

munity. Hopefully, people won’t assume you can’t do any-thing about bringing about change, whether through educa-tion ... change economically … health.




Victor Portillo: New, moreemployers forecast for 2010

Name: Victor Portillo Title: Program support supervisor at Career Services Center

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: We are all aware of the economic issues facing our country.

Here in Kern County, we have felt the effects of the economicdownturn, however, we still are seeing employers that are

hiring. Through theCareer Services Centers,we continue to provideno-fee services to KernCounty residents andemployers with the goalof preparing our job seek-ers with the tools to findemployment, while offer-ing employers qualifiedand job ready candidatesfor employment.

Q: How did you deal withany challenges in yourbusiness this last year?A: Through (federal)stimulus money that wehave received, the CareerServices Centers andEmployers’ TrainingResource have been ableto expand services by

opening a new CSC in Oildale and expanding training andemployment opportunities.


A: I learned that during this recession, our business became amore valuable asset in the community. As a supervisor, Iwore many hats to ensure awareness and delivery of servic-es. I became more flexible and readily available by promot-ing our services through increased presentations and com-munity outreach activities.

Q: What can people look forward to next year in the job mar-ket?

A: The CSC and ETR will continue to work closely with KernEDC and Tejon Ranch with the goal of bringing new busi-nesses to Kern County. Indications are that the economy isslowly turning around allowing for more job seekers to findemployment.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: We maintain a strong belief that 2010 will bring new employ-

ers to Kern County, that we will see business expansion andas the economy continues to improve, that businesses willstart hiring more employees.


Humberto Quiroz: Livewithin your meansName: Humberto QuirozTitle: Vice-President, Bill Ray Tile

Q: What is your perspective on the economy of 2009?A: It was a tough year and harder than the year before. Even

though it was a good year for us, it was not a great year, but wetried to stay afloat. We kept all of our employees, raises andbonuses. We didn’t lose money.

Q: How did you deal with any challenges in your business this lastyear?

A: By keeping up with our bills and paying our suppliers right away.Everything is paid and that really helped … not having to borrowmoney. It also helped by having a lot of inventory. We don’t haveto borrow money to boost our inventory.

Q: What did you learn about your business and yourself this lastyear?

A: I have learned so much from Bill Ray. You have to adjust your-self to your income and to the times, and find ways to make it withwhat you are making, even if you may be selling less. Spendingand living within your means is how we have done business in thepast, and it has served us well in these tough times.

Q: What do you think the local building industry will need to do tosurvive?

A: If there are more incentives for people to buy homes, that willhelp. Right now, it is hard for the industry to stay afloat withbanks not lending money, and with so many homes on the market.

Q: What do you think 2010 will bring to our economy?A: I think 2010 is going to be a lot harder than 2009, especially the

first few months. A lot more people will lose their jobs becausegovernment is not doing anything to create jobs.



ENTERTAINMENT

By Matt Muñoz/MÁS staff

Ceci Bastida’s new year prom-ises to be quite a viaje.

A familiar face to fans ofearly Latin rock or roc enespañol — if you prefer, askeyboardist and vocalist to

Tijuana, Mexico ska / punk music legends,Tijuana No!, Bastida is ready to show offher new solo-prowess to the world.

Indiscriminate music fans shouldalready know Bastida’s place in thegenre’s history.

Singing lead on two of Tijuana No!’s sig-nature tunes, “Pobre De Ti,”and an Eng-lish cover of The Clash’s “SpanishBombs,” she also traveled the globe, tour-ing with critically acclaimed artist andfriend, Julieta Venegas.

Now solo, Bastida is preparing to makeher own waves in 2010 with a new, full-length release coming in March.

MÁS spent some time with Bastida viatelephone from her LA residence Dec. 10,a few hours before her final show of ‘09 atEast LA’s Eastside Luv club to talk abouthistory, her future and capricious Ameri-can music fans.

Q: You’ve been a fixture on the Latinalternative music scene since the ‘90swith Tijuana No! How does it feel to bethe “First Lady of Roc en español?”

A: I’ve never thought of myself that way,honestly, and I’m not trying to be humbleor anything.

I started when I was very young, and Ithink wasn’t aware of a lot of things. I wasjust playing because I wanted to, and I waskind of unaware of promoters or the busi-ness aspect of the whole thing, or the pub-licity and stuff like that. So, you know …To me, I was just playing and I was excitedthat we had a record out and the peoplecame to the show, so that was pretty coolfor me.

Q: Tijuana No!’s lyrics included topicslike the EZLN (Zapatista Army of National

Liberation — anarmed liberationgroup based out ofChiapas, Mexico),years before Subco-mandante Marcosand Che’ Guevarashirts becamefashionable.How was itreceived?

A: 1994 wasa very impor-tant year withthe Zapatistamovementand NAFTA(NationalFree TradeAgreement),and also thispoliticianwho waskilled in TJ.

When thewhole Marcosthing started, westarted singingabout it, and put in on the cover of our sec-ond record in ‘94. There were so manythings that were hard not to talk about, andthere was this longing for people toexpress themselves.

It was an important thing to put outthere, questioning our government. Plus,it was so evident to everybody of the unfairthings going on in Mexico. There was thisbig community and cities that were livingin extreme poverty.

I think the political thing also camefrom us living across the border, seeingundocumented people crossing the borderevery single day. We would see the borderpatrol every single day of our lives, so itbecame a part of life for people in TJ. Peo-ple were interested and intrigued by it,and some people were turned off by it.

There were events we weren’t invited tobecause people didn’t want us to talk aboutthese things. But in the end, people werevery accepting and supportive of what wewere doing.

Q: New fans were introduced to youperforming alongside Julieta Venegas foryears — how did your friendship becomea working relationship after Tijuana No!disbanded?

A: Julieta and I have been friends since

we met and have always been close.She was playing in a band when she was

in high school. I was a freshman, and shewas a senior. I used to go see her band, andwe became friends. I then started withTijuana No! and, after about a year or so,her band broke-up. She joined us forawhile. Then, she moved to Mexico Cityfor what seemed like many years.

One day she called me in TJ and said,“I’m going to go play in LA and my key-board player doesn’t have a Visa, couldyou do it?” That was in 2000, when her sec-ond record, “Bueninvento” was out.

I agreed, learned the songs, played withher and had so much fun. After the show,she asked me to stay.

When she recorded her third record andshe started getting more popular, that’swhen I decided to move to Mexico City,because everyone was based from there. Iended up playing with her band until 2008.

Q: When did you decide it was time toleave her band?

A: I think a little over a year before I lefther band.

With Julieta, it was a lot of fun, but itwas also her music. I just played whateverwas recorded and added a few things. WithTijuana No!, I was very involved in the

Ceci Bastida:No Borders

Latin alternative musiclegend is ready to breakbarriers with hot, new solocareer in 2010

Continued on page 25

PHOTO BY MARIA MADRIGAL


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Hey, homies, it’s beentwo months since I’vewritten my columnthat you so love to

read. Ha-ha, j/k!Let’s just say that I’ve been

really busy with a plate full ofboth sadness and a lot of worry-ing. But life must move on andjust make it the best you can, queno? Drink a beer, lol! Shouts tomy brother Hime, may he rest inpeace, the coolest dude around!

Thanks to the people whoshowed love at The Bistrolounge for my b-day. Recordingartist Tino rolled through anddid an awesome performance.Comedian/DJ Cooch rolledthrough the Nile with his come-dy crew and made you laugh.Eric V. of the Baka Boyzdropped a set at The Bistro.

Well, it’s official. Bakersfieldis cluttered with DJ’s, and everybar in town has “VIP” services,but everyone in town is stuck,waiting for the next big so-called “club” to open.

Do we really have a clubscene? It seems to me thateveryone just follows each otheraround, they don’t seem to carefor the entertainment and goodentertainment that some pro-moters bring to town.

And half the time, Bakers-field doesn’t support, they’reused to the same old thing! Butthen you hear people say, “Thistown is boring,” well, maybe ifyou support good quality events,some of the entertainers would-n’t mind coming back for anoth-er appearance.

So gente, support the goodquality events and try doingsomething different once inawhile, it wouldn’t hurt you,believe me! Alright, enoughyapping, lol! And let’s get In theMixx and find out what’s hap-pening for the month of January...

Fluffy’s back!The homies at Icon Concerts

welcome comedian Gabriel Igle-

sias to the Fox Theater, 2001 HSt., for “The Fluffy Shop Tour.”Yeah, that’s right — the fluffyguy returns Thursday, Jan.14.The cool part is that a secondshow has been added. Ticketsare $41.50 at: vallitix.com or call661-322-5200. Doors open at 6p.m., showtime is at 7, secondshow starts at 10 p.m.

Time to get old-schooledFor all the old schoolers, The

Fox will also present “Voices ofLatin Rock,” with some of thegreatest recording artists likeMalo, Jorge Santana, Karl Per-azzo, Lydia Pence, LennyWilliams and Lester Chambers.Get your tickets at: vallitix.comor call 661-322-5200. Tickets are$23-$38. Doors open at 7 p.m.More info at 661-324-1369.

Mickey’s in the house!This one’s for the little

mocosos — the Rabobank Arena1001 Truxtun Ave. welcomes

NO E G.

IN THE MIXX

By NOE G. | Contributing ColumnistDo you know of acomedy show, play,nightclub or other eventthat you want to sharewith MÁS magazine? E-mail it to: [email protected] [email protected]

Noe G‘Mixx’ itup with

Continued on page 25

ADRIGAL


The

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

SAVETHE DATE

JAN. 13, 2010Business Mixer hosted byFirst MortgageCorporation4630 California Ave.5:30 - 7:30 p.m.For info., contact 321-3300.

FEB. 6, 2010KCHCC Installation &Awards BanquetDoubleTree Hotel6 p.m., Cocktail Hour7 p.m., Dinner

FEB. 10, 2010Business Mixer Hosted by MÁS MagazineTBD5:30 - 7:30 p.m.For info., contact 395-7487.

By Jay TamsiVice-Chair KCHCC

The Kern County Hispanic Chamber ofCommerce will carry out 25 years ofservice, with its annual installation ban-quet and business awards.

The event, scheduled for Sat., Feb. 6 at theDoubleTree Hotel starting at 6 p.m., will revealthe new board members and business awardrecipients who contribute to the success of thechamber and make a difference in the communi-ty.

More than 300 people are expected to attendthe annual event. The Honorable, Judge RobertTafoya, is scheduled to conduct the installationof the new board members, while Maria Hernan-dez from Univision will be the emcee for theevening.

The new executive board includes RamonaHerrera, chairperson; Jesse Bonales, chair-elect; Jay Tamsi, vice-chair; David Alanis, sec-retary; Jan Bans, treasurer; Joe Jimenez, pastchair.

The Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Com-

merce, considered one of the largest in the state,has also benefited from Latino businesses’growth and non-Latino businesses that cater toHispanics. The chamber continues to be one ofthe prominent and fastest growing civic organi-zations in Kern, and currently has over 500members.

“I am extremely excited about this year’sboard,” said Ramona Herrera, Chair of theBoard. “2009 presented unique economic chal-lenges to businesses, however, I believe 2010offers Hispanic Businesses a unique opportunityto recover and prosper. The goals of our Board ofDirectors are to assist Chamber members to takeadvantage of those opportunities.”

The chamber will unveil their annual businessawards at the banquet. The awards are one of themany highlights of the evening for local businessowners.

2009 Hispanic Chamber Awards will be givenin the following categories: Business Man of theYear; Business Woman of the Year; Large Busi-ness of the Year; Small Business of the Year;Corporation of the Year; Community ServiceAward; Chairperson’s Recognition Award.

Celebrating 25 years of success

COURTESY PHOTO

This photo is of the 2009 Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce officers being installed.

HISPANIC CHAMBER


10

Dear Members and Friends,

Happy New Year! May the New Yearbring each and every one of our mem-bers a year filled with new expectations,

growth and direction.As your 2010 Chair, I am proud to serve the

needs of our membership. Our 2010 Board ofDirectors are eager to roll up their sleeves andwork towards our goals of increased membership,business services, monthly mixers, annual eventplanning for our Spring Social, Menudo Cook-Off,

Business TradeShow and our GolfTournament. Iencourage you tobe a part of a plan-ning committee, it’sa great way to formnew relationships,network and have agreat time.

As a small busi-ness owner, Iunderstand thechallenges andobstacles that maychange the direc-tion of our initialcourse. Many of us

have experienced those challenges and changes inthe last couple of years. Various financial analystsare predicting a slow economic recovery period.However, in my office, my team and I look forwardto meeting our goals in 2010 with enthusiasm and apositive outlook.

We hope to see all of you at the Installation Din-ner scheduled for Sat., Feb. 6, at the DoubleTreeHotel. It promises to be a great event, and we willbe celebrating the Kern County Hispanic Cham-ber’s 25th anniversary.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity tothank Past Chair and Interim CEO Joe Jimenez forhis vision and direction in 2009.

It is my plan and goal to continue to focus onmembership services to better your businesses.

Wishing you and your family a prosperous andhealthy 2010.

Sincerely,

Ramona HerreraChairKern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce State Farm Insurance Agent

BakersfieldCarriages/Maryanns Country Maryann Ronk 18940 Palm Ave.Bakersfield, CA 93314(661) 589-4435

DB & Company David Bass2001 “G” St.Bakersfield, CA 93301(661) 324-2222

Dr. Rock & Latin Rock, Inc.Dr. Bernardo D. Gonzalez2720 24th St.San Francisco, CA 94110(415) 285-7719

Dynamic Real EstateRichard C. Guzman1301 So. “H” St.Bakersfield, CA 93304(661) 201-2600

Residence Inn by MarriottAdriana Lopez4241 Chester LaneBakersfield, CA 93309(661) 321-9800

Medrano RoofingTeo Medrano

219 Chester Ave.


(661) 395-0147

ServiceMaster at BakersfieldJulian Herrera

217 Daniels Lane


(661) 324-4063

Thompson LawLutie Thompson

1109 Chester Ave.


(661) 322-8899

United Security BankDoug Oelke

3404 Coffee Road


(661) 588-2265

Xcel Data Mike Moreno

5880 District Blvd. #5


(661) 836-4065

Chairwoman’sletter

KERN COUNTY HISPANICCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

• Bakersfield Blaze Baseball

• Junior Achievement ofBakersfield

• KVS Transportation, Inc.

• Luis Esparza Services, Inc.

• Mish Funeral Home

• Non Stop Sound - ManuelGutierrez

• The Kerber Insurance Agency,LLC

• UC Merced

• UC Merced Bakersfield

RENEWALSThank you for renewing your membership!

TO

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS



Happiness & holidays in themix for mixer at The Nile— Contributed by KCHCC

It was a wonderful evening withchamber friends and members, asthe Kern County Hispanic Cham-ber of Commerce hosted a member-

ship appreciation business mixer at TheNile during the holiday season.

As KCHCC has done in the years past,gifts at the door were collected in aneffort to bring holiday spirit to the lessfortunate children in our community.Numerous toys were donated by the

membership and monetary donationsexceeded the chambers expectations.The toys and donations were distributedequally to the organizations in the com-munity who hosted toy drives. Thankyou to our membership for their contri-butions.

The holiday event was attended byover 100 business professionals. Guestsenjoyed food catered by La Mina Canti-na and enjoyed music by Xtreme MobileDJ. A large raffle and 50/50 drawingtook place, and a slideshow was present-

ed to the membership from past busi-ness mixers and events. Thank you toMichael Urioste and Joe Serrano forcoordinating the presentation.

Thank you to Klarke Garl, owner ofthe Nile, and his staff for providing theholiday mixer venue and hospitality.The Nile is located at 1721 19th St.Hours of operation are Thursdaythrough Sunday, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

For event information or VIP service,contact 363-3179 or visit: www.thenile-barandgrill.com

PHOTO BY JEREMY GONZALEZ

Left top right: Klarke Garl (The Nile), Jay Tamsi (Chamber vice-chair), Joe Jimenez (Past Chamber Chair and Interim CEO), ElvaMartinez, Tony Martinez, Jesse Bonales (Chamber Treasurer, Wells Fargo).



— Contributed by KCHCCMember

Zumba Fitness wasfounded in 1996 byBeto Perez. Angela isa licensed Zumba®

instructor who teachesZumba Fitness, which is acombination of Latin andinternational rhythms. Sheoffers private classes, groupinstruction, corporate fit-ness, as well as Zumba par-ties!

Angela is now licensed forZumba® Gold, which is forthe active older adult, begin-ners and people who mayhave issues with hips orknees. It is basically a slow-er paced workout. Great forthe baby boomers, who aresuch a large part of the com-munity. Angela will be offer-ing this class in Januarythrough the Parks and

Recreation Department atSilver Creek.

Angela is the first one inKern County to have theZumbAtomic certification.This is Zumba for KIDS.Zumba realizes that kids aremore obese now than everand wanted to address thishealth issue.

The kids program isbrand new; it launched inSeptember at the Orlandoconvention that Angelaattended. In addition to hav-ing the ZumbAtomic classesat her own location, she isworking on partnering withsome schools to get the kidsmoving!http://www.zumbatomic.com

— For more informationon Zumba, contact Angela at703-0791, or go to:ZumbaFitnesswithAngela.com

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.

2010 Executive Board

CHAIR- Ramona Herrera

VICE-CHAIR- Jay Tamsi

TREASURER - Jan Bans

SECRETARY- David Alanis

CHAIR-ELECT- Jesse Bonales

PAST-CHAIR - Joe Jimenez

Adam Alvidrez

Adriana Lopez

Chris Bernal

Donna Hermann

Fran Trevino

Hilary Baird

Joe Serrano

Michael Urioste

Ruben Gonzales

AdministrativeAssistantCyndi Imperial

2009 Board of Directors

ZumbaFitness withAngela


Wow! I cannot believe it is2010! I can remember not beingable to wait for it to be 1999, so Icould dance to the Prince song“We’re Gonna Party Like It’s1999!”

I know everybody is singingthat song right now in their headwith the exception of mycomadre Nikki, who probablyjust broke out her entire Princewardrobe and is busting all hermoves ... lol! Sorry, Nikki!

Speaking about breaking outthe right wardrobe — it is thebeginning of the year again andtime for everyone to evaluate ifthey are happy with their cur-rent jobs or not. This is also oftenthe time of year when everyoneis coming into the shop wanting a“new look” or a “change,” forone reason or another.

The most common question is

“Denise, what do you think Ishould wear for my interview?”Well, it depends. Are you goingto an interview for The Bakers-field Californian or for our newlocal Hooters (stop cheering,BOYS!)?

If you are interviewing for aposition that is on the conserva-tive side, then you probablywant to watch your p’s and q’ssuch as — make sure your hairis nice and neat (maybe a simpleupdo), you want your makeup tobe natural looking with moreearthy tones (not your Fridaynight Cindy Lauper look) andyour clothing to look nice andneat (without anything hangingout of the wrong places).

If you are interviewing for ajob that is not so conservative,the same rules apply with theexception of the hair — still

have it neat, but maybe some-thing less formal like half up,half down with a few curls ...aww ha! You naughty girlsthought I was going to say lessclothes, more make-up and bigsexy hair! Ummmm, NO —always keep an interview asprofessional as you can, andmake sure not to forget yourbest personality.

Please DO NOT try waking up20 minutes before you have theinterview and expect to get thejob with last night’s make-upand your pink sweats outfit fromVictoria’s Secreto!

Well, good luck job hunters! Ihope my advice helps a little —and Nikki, “Turn the vinylPrince album off and stoprolling around on the floor!!!”

Stay Beautiful,Denise

Denise Ornelas, a formerMiss Teen Kern CountyLatina, is a local beautysalon owner. Send yourquestion for Denise to: [email protected] leave your question at:395-7487

BEAUTY ADVICED E N I S E O R N E L A S

New year, new look, perhaps a new job?

Ay Mujer, I was recently asked, “Do youwant to pay taxes on the seed or the har-vest?” Not a trick question, either.

In reality we don’t want to pay any taxes,but then we’d look like a Third Worldnation, so taxes don’t look that bad whenyou consider the alternative.

We all benefit from paying taxes, whetheryou believe so or not. Most every part of ourlife is subsidized and/or regulated by ourgovernment — safety, education, trans-portation, roads, justice, communications,fire, water, even plain ol’ dirt. Don’t believeme about the dirt? So, consider where youcan and cannot dump dirt, then pop off.

Shh, don’t tell anybody, though we mightall break out in a riot and start calling peo-ple names for not letting us dump dirt wher-ever the “h, e, double-l” we want.

So, why not health care? Guess what,mujer? It’s already regulated and subsi-dized, so why not let the rest of us benefitfrom what we pay into? We all benefit froma healthy, educated, safe, non-polluted soci-ety — just consider the alternative.

But, fear not mujer, this isn’t a conversa-tion about health care, it’s a conversation

about TAXES! Inanswer to thequestion: I’drather pay taxeson the seed thanthe harvestbecause the har-vest is always big-ger than the seed.

The “trick” ispara hacer su tra-bajo de dinero

para ti in the best,most optimal situa-tion under this reg-ulated systemunder which ourmoney flows to,

away, and back to us. Many of us have goneon the deferred comp. bandwagon, but thenwe saw the green-eyed monster pull the rugright out from under us! Then we lost a sub-stantial amount of the money we were count-ing on to be there later in life.

But, like I said mujer, fear not becausethere’s a little known “government” regula-tion that allows us to put away without los-

ing our principal, while benefiting from themoney we put away to enjoy while we’restill alive. Oh no, don’t tell me the govern-ment did something for us! Yep, it’s called a7702(a) Private Plan and my good friend,Erik Serda at Stockdale Insurance sold meon it with that question he asked me afterfirst asking, “How much deferred comp. didyou lose when the market fell?”

Had I put my money in a properly struc-tured 7702(a), I wouldn’t have lost themoney and I’ll pay less in the end, becausemy harvest — while becoming smaller whenthe stock market fell — is still larger thanmy seed.

Don’t forget mujer, you may not pay taxeson the deferred comp. you’re putting awaynow, but when you pull out your harvest,you’re going to pay taxes and you’re payingmore taxes because your seed grew.¿Entiendes?

Be smart mujer, don’t ever let anyonetake more from you than you benefit. Whenyou get right down to it, it’s all economics —a cost/benefit analysis. So, just out smart‘em and you’ll get to enjoy your harvest.

And, may it be plentiful!

AY MUJER

“Ay Mujer” iswritten by DeborahRamirez, a proudChicana deBakersfield.

Don’t let taxes become taxing experience

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


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writing of the songs, and all of asudden, I was just this musicianwho was just playing someoneelse’s music. The idea of leavingthat and starting my own thing,not knowing what’s going tohappen is kind of scary at first.But I think I did the right thing.

Q: Latin alternative musichad a swell of potentialcrossover popularity in themid-’90s, now it’s back tobeing a niche sound for coolcollege kids. Where do you seethe sound heading in terms ofits place in pop music?

A: I don’t know what exactlyis going on.

I can tell you my experiencenow living in this country isvery different than when I wasliving in Mexico. Right now, forexample, even putting out myalbum, the indie labels that haveheard it are like, “Oh, I like it alot … I just don’t know what todo with someone who sings inSpanish.”

I think the language thing isstill an issue here, even thoughthere are so many Latinos here.A lot of these people don’t seethat there’s this whole gigantic

world of people who could beinto the music that a lot of bandsare doing.

Q: And you don’t have toknow Spanish to appreciategood music, right?

A: That’s also what I say. Growing up, I didn’t speak

English until later in life. I lis-tened to music in English, knewa lot of people who didn’t speakany English, and listened toeverything. It wasn’t an issue.You would sing along, inventwords or whatever, because youwere so into the songs. It’s sodifferent here in the U.S. A lot ofpeople need for music to besung in English, otherwisethey’ll dismiss it.

I also think that there’s some-thing about the Spanish languagethat is not particularly attractiveto a lot of people. I think that if Iwas singing in French or Por-tuguese, people would say, “Oh,how chic and exotic.”

But I think Spanish remindspeople of “all those people thatlive here,” or “Oh, I think mygardener might know yourmusic.” I’ve heard those kindsof comments a lot. I don’t thinkthey mean to be negative, but

that’s how people tend to viewit. That’s just my opinion.

Q: Mexican alternativeartists like El Gran Silencio,Molotov, and Julieta havereceived such overwhelmingcrowd responses at the annualCoachella in front of a mixedcrowd …

A: True, and I don’t thinkmusic fans here get enoughcredit for that.

I went to Coachella, and sawCafé Tacuba perform. It waspacked, and not with just abunch of Mexicans.

A lot of people are intriguedby it and know that there is goodmusic to discover. They justdon’t have as much access to seethe bands who don’t often cometo play in the states.

Q: When can fans expectyour new CD?

A: I hope to release it inMarch of 2010.

Hear more of Matt Muñoz’sinterview with Ceci Bastida onBakotunes Podcast, Episode 62at:www.bakotopia.com/blogs/bakotunes

Ceci Bastida online:www.cecibastida.comwww.myspace.com/cecibastida

Continued from page 18 Continued from page 19“DisneyLive! Rockin’ RoadShow. Join Mickey and hispals Sunday, Jan. 17 for twoshows, 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.Tickets are on sale now at:Ticketmaster.com or theRabobank arena box office.Tickets are $18-$45. For moreinfo, call 661-852-7777.

Shouts to: Lupe Cisneros(Happy B-Day); my BrotherHime Garcia & NephewMatthew Romero — may youboth Rest In Peace, we loveand will always miss you;Linda Castro (Thanks foreverything).

Hime Garcia


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Marcos Reyes in concertDec. 17, 2009

Held at the Maria Bonita Restaurant

Photos by Rodney Thornburg

Tina Casteneda, Christina Velasquez and Irene Salas.

Ramiro Amador, Marcos Reyes and Victor Bejarano.

Louis Vegas, Gloria Guerra and Julian Morales.

Rosario Reyes, Toby Pena, Josh Lopez and Ali Rosas.


GENTE GALLERY

Kern County Latina Leaders Social Dec. 22, 2009

Held at the home of Wendy Avila

Photos by Tanya X. Leonzo

Amanda Nobregas, Carmen Mercado, Brenda Lopez, Litzalla Bonellie-Yoakum, MariaCarmona, and Marta Muhsen.

Blodgie Rodriguez, Luz Acosta, Debbie Simpson, Wendy Avila, Elena Acosta and MagdaMenendez.

Magda Menendez, Wendy Avila, and BlodgieRodriguez.

Marta Muhsen, Wendy Avila and Brenda Lopezsharing and looking at pictures.

Luz Acosta and Debbie Simpson.


The Kern County Hispanic Chamber of CommerceAnnual Installation Banquetand Business Awards

Installation of 2010 Board Members

Mariachi - Oro y PlataDancing to Music by "Prisoners of Love"

(Entertainment sponsored by Budweiser)

SaturdayFebruary 6, 2010No Host Cocktails 6:00pm

Dinner and Program 7:00pmDance 9:00pm

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GENTE GALLERY

Hispanic Chamber of CommerceMember Appreciation MixerDec. 9, 2009

Held at the Nile Bar and Grill

Photos by Jeremy Gonzalez

Donna Hermann(Chamber board of directors) and ChuckSmith (CAL Golden Empire RETC).

MichaelUrioste, JayTamsi andOmar Ruiz.

RobertoOrazco, CarmenAcevedo,Martin Guerrero.


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Jesse Bonales, Rick Hylton and Omar Ruiz.

Mario Soria, Charlotte Mac Kelvey and Julian Herrera.

Diane Monsibais andDonna Hermann.

Ken Powell , LisaCalles and ChuckSmith.


I ate nothing but junk food allweekend and still lost more thana half ton of SUV in two daysthanks to The Bakersfield Californian.You too can lose your unwantedweight fast and affordably by sellingyour vehicle.

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