Q: I have a question for “Ask the Californian.” What happened to the rocket that was on top of the Padre Hotel? Is it in storage at the Kern County Museum (where it should be), or in someone’s garage? Just curious. I’ve done a little nosing around on the Internet, but couldn’t find an answer. It’s a Bakersfield landmark and should be preserved, in my opinion. Thanks!
— Roger Taylor

A: The Californian called Brett Miller, one of the new owners of the Padre Hotel. This is what he had to say:
“We have the rocket in safe keeping. It is a real piece of Bakersfield history. If it does not find a home at the Padre, we will consider lending it to the Bakersfield Historical Society.
“There are rumors of many things in the basement. Most everything of curious nature has been moved so that they are kept safe.
 “We plan to use as much of the culture of the Padre in our designs. For those that live in Bakersfield and know the stories behind (late former owner Milton “Spartacus” Miller) we hope will find it amusing and tastefully done.”