Sports: Bakersfield.com

US Naval Aviation Centennial Kickoff - NAS North Island, San Diego, Feb 11 and 12, 2011

100 YEARS OF NAVAL AVIATION

     The weekend of February 11 and 12, 2011 was nothing short of one big ‘color-fest’ at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. This was because 2011 is the 100th Anniversary of US Naval Aviation and beginning in mid 2010, the United States Navy began to paint twenty seven different aircraft with various ‘retro’ paint schemes, mostly representations from the early 1940s era. Twenty-two of these ‘heritage’ aircraft were on the ramp at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, as well as a handful of other commanders’
aircraft, more commonly known to aviation photographers as ‘color birds’. Some of the more popular displays included VAQ-129’s blue EA-18 Growler, the blue EA6B Prowler from NAS Whidbey Island, the blue S-3 Viking from VX-30, the six color helicopters including SH-60 Seahawks and MH-60 Knighthawks, and last but not least, the VMA-214 commander’s aircraft flown over from MCAS Yuma, an AV-8B Harrier, which features Major Greg “Pappy” Boyington’s name on the nose, as well as some nice
“Blacksheep” squadron graphics. The aforementioned VX-30 also flew a second S-3 Viking in the flying portion of this celebration, - a colorful S-3 Viking known as “Bloodhound 700”.   The aircraft is a beauty - white overall, complemented with patches of dark blue and yellow trim. VX-30 is a squadron nicknamed the “Bloodhounds” and is located at Naval Base Ventura County on the California coast. Colorful aircraft like the ones I’ve mentioned are a big hit with photographers because we simply do not see them very often.

Why San Diego?
        San Diego is recognized as the birthplace of US Naval Aviation in 1911 because the Navy ordered their first aircraft from Glenn Curtiss in May of 1911. It was later designated the A-1 Triad. A bit earlier, in February of that year, Mr Curtiss operated one of his hydro designs from the armored cruiser USS Pennsylvania, with a bit of help from cranes of course. The first Naval Aviator, Lt Theodore Ellyson received his training (from Glenn Curtiss) in the area. It became official in July of 1911, several months after Curtiss’ recommendation. On display at the event were two replicas of the A-1 Triad
airplane, and both are in flying condition. Even more exciting was the fact that one of them put on a short demonstration in the water. Two aircraft carriers were made available to the media and public, but I’ll get to that later. For photographers, this event was probably going to be the airshow of the year and I am sure Naval Base Coronado’s public affairs office was absolutely swamped with requests for media credentials for the celebration. I was fortunate to be one of about 150 people who gained access the Friday
before the show, to roam the flight line without the crowds.

Base Access
       Traffic getting off-base for media day was the worst congestion I’ve seen in years, and that includes heavy metal concerts, but then again this area really wasn’t designed with airshow traffic in mind. You had to feel sorry for anyone using the Coronado bridge going out Friday, or in either direction Saturday. As one of my buddies said, “it was evil!”. Entering and exiting the base via the southern route, known as Silver Strand, to Imperial Beach was going to be the best bet. Media day was a fantastic, no, make that a once in a lifetime opportunity, and yet there were fewer photographers than expected, which meant, for us early birds, that there would not be as many arms and legs in the
background to clone out with photo editing software!   After media day was over, nearby Brown Field in Chula Vista proved to be a pretty good side trip. This is where most of the participating warbirds, and a few military aircraft, were staging from. One of the highlights on the ramp at Brown Field was a Pittsburgh-based AF Reserve C-130 with fantastic Desert Storm related nose art. The military iron operated out of nearby MCAS Miramar.

Coming back to the base on Saturday about 8am, I passed the already gridlocked spectator traffic and local beach spots (already filling up with locals), checked in with public affairs, then made my way to the parking lot and the static displays. Having shot most of the ground stuff Friday, I was looking forward to an easy day’s shooting - concentrating on the aerial action only - and hoped to maybe even time to just sit and watch the show as opposed to obsessively photographing every important sight out there. As it turned out, however, there was another handful of static aircraft that had either been
late arrivals Friday afternoon, or had been towed out to the ramp late after the media had left, so there went my plans for a light work day!

        We were offered rooftop access on Saturday, on one of the squadron buildings, and I managed to get up there just in time to see the A-1 Triad demo. One surprise for both media and spectators on Saturday was the fact that the Triad actually took to the air for a brief time. All signs leading up to the event pointed to a simple ‘taxi around the water’ routine. I don’t think anyone was complaining though!

Military and Warbird Statics:
         There were about sixty-one aircraft on the ground at North Island for this event. The oldest, in terms of the era they represented, were the two replica A-1 Triads. Both of them are flyable. There was also an old Jenny biplane inside one of the hangars. Next to these, probably the rarest were the E-6B Mercury and the PB4Y Privateer. There was a second E-6B in the skies later that day. Many of us expected to see the popular Commemorative Air Forces’s Curtiss SB2C Helldiver on display, but it did not make it. It is a one of a kind aircraft and rarely leaves its home state of Texas. Another rarity was the arrival of a flying A-4 Skyhawk. But most of the media photographers headed for three aircraft in particular, that were grouped together in what appeared to be what you might call “blue row” - this included the blue Growler, the blue Prowler, and the blue S-3 Viking. The San Diego Bay provided a very nice background for these three. The S-3 and EA6B both looked like something out of the Battle of Midway with their classic World War Two markings. There was one aircraft in particular that I’ve been waiting
about two or three years to photograph, and that was the colorful VFC-111 “Sundowners” F-5, with its red and white rising sun tail art. The squadron also had an F-5 flying in the aerial parade. Speaking of F-5s, there were a total of eight F-5s that flew in the airshow itself - and one of them was a very rare two seat model. Three P-3 Orion variants were on display - an EP-3, a Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii-based P-3C in heritage markings, and a Canadian version, also known as an “Aurora”.   China Lake’s VX-9 “Vampires” test squadron brought two aircraft over in heritage schemes - a green tailed F-18, and a black tailed Hornet - the latter’s markings reminiscent of the old VX-4 “Vandy One” tail art. Other heritage birds included two specially marked T-34Cs, a TC-12, an F-18 from the “River Rattlers”, another Hornet from VFC-12, and an odd-looking “pixelated” digital F-18 (some airshow fans might have seen this at the 2010 Miramar airshow). VFA-122 from NAS Lemoore brought down their two tone gray aircraft, which again, was on display at the last MCAS Miramar show, however I do not believe this is one of the ‘heritage’ aircraft. The future of Naval Aviation was covered as well, with an X-47B,
Global Hawk and Fire Scout on the ramp. Shockingly, there were no F-4 Phantoms of F-14s on static display!

The Parade of Flight
       What was billed as the largest flyover since the 1950s turned out to be a slow paced airshow. But many of the delays were caused by local boaters who kept getting too close to the safety zone on the bay. These individuals were chased off by aggressive naval security forces. Another delay was caused by an wayward. Once these were taken care of, it was back to the business at hand. In spite of heavy promotion indicating a huge two hundred aircraft flyover, the airshow’s only mass flyby turned out to be the forty-one
aircraft from Carrier Air Wing Nine at the show’s finale. Opening the show were the US Navy’s Blue Angels, crossing right in front of the rising half moon. After the playing of the National Anthem, the crowd saw a demo from the US Navy Leap Frogs skydiving team, and then came the vintage warbirds, one at a time and very far out over the bay. Photographers began to get restless and were murmuring amongst themselves about the disappointing proximity of the aircraft, until finally some larger aircraft flew by, or we saw some formations big enough to fill our frames. Some of those formations included Cobras and Super Cobras with the newest Huey helicopter variant, the “Venom”.   We also saw a Prowler leading two Growlers, two separate groups of F-5 adversary aircraft, two color-tailed C-2 Greyhounds, two Prowlers, two VMFC-232 Hornets, four Hornets from NAS Lemoore, four Harriers including a color bird, groups of CH-46s and CH-53s, a pair of Ospreys, four more Hornets - two from VMFA-232 and two from VMFA-112, three Hornets from VMFA-314, two aggressor F-16s from NAS Fallon and the famous Top Gun school, two T-45 Goshawks, two T-6 Texans, a UC-12 / UC-35 pairing, and a two-ship C-130 formation.   Individual passes included C-9, E-6B, E-2C, C-130 from the Coast Guard, S-3, F-18 mini demo, Harrier mini demo, Osprey mini demo, a Gulfstream,
P-3, HC-144A, T-39, T-2, B-17, B-25, an N3N3 biplane, Hellcat, SBD Dauntless, PV-2 Harpoon, Grumman Albatross, and four T-28s.

      You also want to be alert for anything unexpected. In this case, since we were on the shores of San Diego Bay, there were plenty of birds around to photograph. During the airshow, the group of photographers I was with – we were offered rooftop access on a squadron building rooftop - was surprised by an Osprey coming up from the water with its lunch, a rather good sized fish! The bird flew right at us, then swerved to our side at the last moment, but those of us who were fast enough, managed to get four or five decent shots of it.

Ship Tours
            One of the ships available for tours was one of America’s most advanced aircraft carriers, the USS John C. Stennis, CVN-74. People were taken aboard to see the flight deck and the hangar deck. Two aircraft above, on catapults one and two, were an EA6B Prowler (VAQ-138 “Yellowjackets”), and an F-18 Hornet from VFA-14.   From the flight deck of the Stennis you could look east and see the San Diego-Coronado Bridge and a handful of other Navy ships in port, including a third carrier. Looking north you could look right at the USS Midway museum, and Lindbergh Field.   If you turned to the northwest you saw mostly residential areas and the USMC recruit depot. The USS Pelileu, a light assault carrier, was also open to tours.   As the show went on, naval security forces continued to keep the local boating public at bay (pardon the pun), and after the initial interruptions, everything seemed to go pretty smooth for the remainder of the day. This being a big Navy town, the boat traffic certainly could’ve been as bad as the vehicular traffic on land.

       Now we’ll all have to wait and see what the United States Marine Corps does for their 100th Aviation Centennial next year. As for the US Air Force, well, see some of you in 2047!

   Thanks to the Naval Base Coronado Public Affairs Office staff for their
assistance during the event. Thanks to Ron for information on some of the aircraft, as well as advance info on local traffic. And thanks also to photographer Ned Harris for identifying the feathered Osprey for me. Many thanks to whoever it was who decided to crank up the Judas Priest song, “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin” over the PA right as I entered the static display area on Saturday. That was an absolutely perfect way start the
day!

Versions of thiis report will also be in World Airshow News magazine and Today's Photographer magazine.

Canon Camera "Why Do You Love Football?" Photography Contest

Send a Local Sports Photo to the

NFL Football Hall of Fame

By voting for it online at:

http://www.nfl.usa.canon.com/vote/photoContest.html

or Google NFL Canon to find the site

Pick “The Run”

as your Favorite Overall Adult Photo Entry

Please Vote Today. The Contest Ends January 7, 2011

Local Photographer: Mike Renzi.

Dove Hunt

Jimmie Mahan of Bakersfield Shot his limit of dove by Coles levy, Jimmie used less than a box of shells he is 80

Stop Smoking offer on Bakersfield.com

I saw this offer on the Daily Deal.

Only $200 to stop smoking through hypnosis.

Has anyone tried hypnosis?

Does it work?

The offer is only good til midnight tonight.

I'm interested, but sceptical.

What do you say Bakersfield?

http://dailydeal.bakersfield.com/deals/200-for-a-Stop-Smoking-Program-from-Pathways-Hypnosis

Rock the one-shoulder cocktail dress this season

If you have never worn a top or dress with a single shoulder, now is the perfect time as the trend has become hotter than ever. Women who are looking for a different yet dramatic look can never go wrong with a single shoulder. The main highlight of the one shoulder cocktail dress is that it provides a coquettish glimpse of skin at the same time cover up enough to keep you comfortable. The dress elegantly combines edgy, sexy and sophisticated features of the women wearing it.

Keep in mind the following tips to make the trend gorgeous on you.

The golden rule of thumb while selecting the right color of single shoulder dress is that you need to go for a solid colored one if you are feeling nervous about the style. So be it a trendy magenta or classic black, go for a solid color. However there are options to add more punch to the cocktail dress by adding beading or ruffles and you can ensure that chic accent. But never be afraid to go basic at the first place. Sneak a peek at the celebrities dress trend and you would find that they have been rocking the one shoulder dress with hot belts. So take the cue from the chic’s and put a belt over your dress and keep the style far from frumpy.

Bakersfield Diamond Diva's avenge first loss ever (Flat Track Roller Derby)

The Bakersfield Diamond Diva's first loss ever came at the hands...well actually hips & shoulders of Visalia's V-Town Derby Dames a little over a year ago. At this time the Divas had been together for 6 weeks. The loss was a catalyst to go back to the rink and practice practice practice. That practice has paid off The Divas were riding a 12 game win streak heading into Saturdays rematch with V-Town. The Divas have grown a lot in that time in members, talent, and knowledge. They practice 3-4 times a week, have film nights where they watch previous bouts to see what they need to work on and do a lot of skating/workouts on their free time.

Saturday, August 14th at Skateland in Bakersfield CA was the setting for the rematch. The night started off with American Idol Season 3 finalist Amy Adams roller derby alter ego Vital Idol singing the national anthem. If you have never heard her sing the national anthem it causes goose bumps. The temperature was HOT outside and inside the rink, but it was nothing compared to the heat generated during the bout. The hitting was hard and bone crunching. There will be a lot of trophy bruises forming over the next few days. There were also a couple hurt ankles in the bout too (one was broke in three spots). In case you are new to derby, bruises are prizes to be shown/worn with pride but hurt ankles are one of the many injuries that can happen in the world of flat track derby. Hopefully the injuries are not too bad and the girls will be back on skates soon. The Divas Jammers dominated the night gathering around 80% of the lead jams. The team that controls the lead jam controls the tempo of the bout.

Saturday night was to be the night that the Bakersfield Divas avenged their first loss as a team and to show how much they have grown since the last time they met. The final score was Bakersfield Diamond Divas 130 to V-Town Derby Dames 59. The score is misleading though as it was a hard fought bout till the final whistle.

As usual though once that final whistle was blown both sides took laps giving high fives and at the after party early bruises were shown as awards were given to both teams voted on by the skaters. The after party is part of what makes derby unique. It is a battle on the rink and nothing but fun between both teams at the after party.

The next home bout for the Bakersfield Diamond Divas is September 18th at Skateland in Bakersfield CA.

If you would like to learn more about Flat Track Roller Derby or would like to become a skater, referee, or NSO (Non Skating Official) contact the Bakersfield Diamond Divas via the web at www.bakersfielddiamonddivas.com or www.facebook.com/bakersfielddiamonddivas.

Former Centennial Shortstop Playing in Frontier League All Star Game

Zachary Aakhus, former Centennial shortstop, has been named to the Frontier League All Star Eastern Division team as their starting catcher. Aakhus was the starting catcher in last year's All Star line up.

Aakhus plays for the Windy City Thunderbolts. He leads the team with a batting average of .361. This is his second year with the Thunderbolts hitting .286 before sustaining an injury to the knee behind the plate a week after the All Star game.

A 2002 Centennial graduate and All Area 1st team member, Aakhus attended College of Southern Idaho and Northwest Nazarene. At Northwest, he broke the home run record for a single season with 16 home runs. During the off season, he has been an assistant JV Coach at Frontier High School.

Bakersfield's Mathews: The Perfect Pick for San Diego

For all of the Charger fans who are still unhappy with the selection of Ryan Mathews, let me change your mind.

Mathews didn't receive much national attention until this past season. Thus, some fans still haven't become as familiar as they should with their favorite team's new running back.

One of the biggest misconceptions, even among analysts, is the belief that Mathews wasn't the starting running back at Fresno State until last year. It is also believed that Ryan faced inferior competition playing in the Western Athletic Conference.

Mathews became the starting running back as a true freshman at Fresno State. Coming out of West High School in Bakersfield, CA, Matthews led the nation with almost 3,400 yards rushing and 44 touchdowns as a senior.

From the minute he stepped on to campus at Fresno, big things were expected. As an honor, Mathews was even allowed to wear 21, the retired number of Dale Messer.

In Ryan's first season as a Bulldog, he led all NCAA freshman in yards per carry and touchdowns. As a sophomore, he ranked in the top 10 in rushing yards and touchdowns through four games. In the fourth game against UCLA, he injured his knee and missed the remainder of the year.

This past season, as a junior, the country finally started to recognize Ryan's talent as he once again led the nation in rushing. He saw a huge increase in yards and touchdowns. When Mathews was healthy, he was the man in Fresno State's backfield.

As for those of you who believe Mathews didn't face top competition in the WAC itself, I agree. Other than Boise State being an annual powerhouse, it isn't the strongest conference. However, to say that he never faced top competition is crazy.

Year in and year out, no one schedules a tougher non-conference schedule than Fresno State. While top programs will schedule "cupcake" opponents at the beginning of the season, the Bulldogs will play anyone, anywhere. During Ryan's three years in college, he excelled against top teams such as Boise State, Cincinnati, Oregon, Texas A&M, UCLA, and Wisconsin.

Before trading up to the 12th spot in the draft, the Chargers decided that Mathews was the perfect selection for their organization. In their eyes — and the eye's of most scouts — he was the most complete running back in the draft. No one else had his combination of size and speed.

He possesses the strength to run through the line of scrimmage, lower his shoulder, and carry defenders three to four yards after initial contact. He also has the speed to outrun them to the end zone. In fact, last season Ryan led college football with seven runs of more than 50 yards.

In return, Mathews loves San Diego and couldn't be in a better place. Since childhood, the Chargers have been his favorite team. After high school, it was important for him to be close to family. That's why he chose Fresno State. After college, he was hoping to be drafted by a team on the west coast for the same reason. He got his wish.

With immense talent and a desire to be the best, Mathews will not fail to impress. And if you haven't started to change your mind by now, just wait and see for yourself!

Local Recruiting: Cody Kessler looks to become USC's next great QB

Ten years from now, when people sit down and discuss great USC quarterbacks, there's a good chance they will mention the name Cody Kessler.

Scouts first began to notice Kessler's ability and potential following his sophomore season at Centennial high school in Bakersfield, CA. Fast-forward one year, and he is considered one of the top prospects in the 2011 recruiting class. At every camp and passing tournament this spring, including the Nike Elite 11, Cody is the quarterback who has dominated the headlines.

On the field, Kessler has a swagger that's entertaining to watch. At 6'2'' and 225 pounds, scouts love his strong arm, confidence, and combination of size and agility. After he gave USC his verbal commitment, Lane Kiffin called him a “spitting image” of Mark Sanchez.

The Trojans' newest quarterback also manages the game as well as any high school kid in the country. His best asset is probably his ability to change the velocity of his passes without sacrificing accuracy. He is quite adept at throwing on the run as well.

Another thing scouts love about Kessler is his competitiveness. A couple of months ago at the Badger Sports 7-on-7 passing tournament in Las Vegas, where many of the best players on the west coast come together, he was named the top performer of a game his team needed him to play receiver.

In that game, Kessler made several outstanding catches and scored the winning touchdown as his team, Central Cali, beat Team 1925 featuring fellow USC commits Max Wittek (Mater Dei '11), Victor Blackwell (Mater Dei '11), and Jordan Payton (Oaks Christian '12).

The biggest concern, at this point, is that he takes most of his snaps out of the shotgun.

Currently, Kessler — who has already accepted an invitation to play in next January's U.S. Army All-American game — is ranked the number two pro-style quarterback recruit for 2011 by Rivals.com. They also list him as the top signal caller in the state of California, and the 36th best player nationally.

Tom Lemming, of MaxPreps and CBS sports, ranked Kessler as the golden state's best quarterback as well. Nationally, he ranked him 64th overall, regardless of position.

Off the gridiron, Kessler is just as impressive. Last winter, he averaged 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists per game as a combo guard on Centennial's basketball team. If he wasn't committed to play quarterback at USC, division I schools would be looking at him right now for hoops. The last two years, he received all-state honors in both sports.

Academically, he carries a 3.3 GPA and scored a 1360 on the SAT. When it comes to the weight room, he benches 305, squats 430, and jumps a 36'' vertical.

In Kessler, USC arguably receives the top 2011 quarterback in the country. He is big, athletic, and extremely competitive. When Cody gave his verbal, he knew Max Wittek had announced his commitment to the Trojans months before, but it didn't bother him. He isn't worried about competition or the sanctions imposed upon the school by the NCAA.

When penalties are lifted, Kessler and the rest of the 2011 class will only be entering their sophomore or red shirt freshman season. Next winter, he will graduate early so he can participate in the spring game and practices, giving himself an early advantage. But advantage or not, Kessler brings USC as much talent as any recent quarterback they have sent on to play in the NFL.

Vision Zone Volleyball Team wins GOLD at USAV National Competition in Reno, NV

Once again, Bakersfield athletes dominate at the national level!

The Vision Zone Volleyball Club 15 Elite team earned a Gold Medal finish in the 2010 USA Volleyball National Championships on June 29, 2010. The four day competition was held in Reno, Nevada and hosted the top teams from across the nation. The team previously placed 5th in the 2009 Nationals in Miami, FL.

Vision Zone players include:

#2 Nadya Abukhazneh -Defensive Specialist

#5 Natalie Pardo - Defensive Specialist

#11 Erin Andrew - Defensive Specialist

#21 Tali Brown - Right Side

#9 Baylie Duncan - Outside Hitter

#12 Taylor Harris - Setter

#10 Keely Palla - Outside Hitter

#1 Haylee Roberts - Middle Blocker

#7 Kiki Robinson - Setter

#13 Krista Rymer - Middle Blocker

#14 Savannah Templeton - Middle Blocker

The team is coached by Greg Harris.

Zone went into the tournament seeded #8 in a 48 team pool. On their first day of play the team defeated A5 Mizuno from Arizona 25-15, 25-16. They then stopped the Iowa Rockets 25-14, 25-21 and closed the day shutting down Texas Image 25-11, 26-24. Their second day was no different winning the two final matches of their preliminary pool against Portland 25-13, 25-10 and Northern California 25-22, 19-25, 15-6.

The third day of play included a three team pool in which Zone dominated Renaissance from Pennsylvania 27-25, 26-24 and Club Red from Arizona 25-15, 25-19. Zone’s record of 5-0 placed them into a challenge bracket to determine if they would compete in the Gold quarter finals. Zone conquered TCA from Orange County in two matches with scores 25-20, 25-23.

The team was an unstoppable train barreling through the final day of single elimination competition. They eliminated the #1 seed, San Gabriel Elite from Southern California 25-21, 25-17. This win ensured a medal but the girls vowed not to settle for bronze. They fought on to crush Springfield Illinois in two with scores of 25-11, 25-22. The team found themselves on the Championship Court gunning for Gold.

The final match was magical. They were paraded onto the grandstand court in true Olympic fashion. As each player’s name was announced everyone in attendance could feel the electricity in the air. Zone took the court with confidence and controlled Club West from Southern California in the first game of the match winning 25-18. The second game was a battle with Club West coming out with the win 25-23. The Zone rallied their “Hoooo-Raaaah” spirit to quickly seize the Gold medal in the final game scoring 15 points to West’s 6.

The team was presented with Gold Medals on the Championship podium and commended for their amazing 11-0 record. Coach Harris is incredibly proud of all of his players. Each girl committed 100% to the team and performed at an extremely high level. Although all of the Zone players played exceptional volleyball during the competition, three were given honors at the medal ceremony. Taylor Harris and Kiki Robinson were named to the All-Tournament Team. Haylee Roberts was awarded All-Tournament MVP.

Team website: http://vzvbc.clubspaces.com

Tournament Results: https://www.advancedeventsystems.com/VolleyballResults/Standings.aspx?e=PTAwMDAwMDA3MTU90&d=2962

USA Volleyball National Tournament information: http://usavolleyball.org/events/2483

Point Loma University professor named Ford Ironman Everyday Hero

Corey McKenna, Ph.D., associate professor of education at PLNU’s Bakersfield Regional Center received the Ford Ironman Everyday Hero Award at Ironman St. George on May 1, 2010. The award is given to one person at each of the seven Ironman races in North America each year. The seven individuals are selected from a pool of nearly 15,000 for significant contribution to a person, charity, or organization.

Since this was the inaugural year for the Ironman in St. George, Corey was the first recipient of this particular Everyday Hero award. He was also the first recognized in 2010, as the St. George race will kick off the 2010 Ironman season.

Corey was honored at the athlete welcome dinner on Thursday, April 29, before the race and a video was produced, which will air first at the dinner and later this year on television channel Universal Sports.

Corey also received entry into any Ironman event in the continental U.S. in the coming year – including events already full to general entry.

In addition, Ford and Ironman will make a $1,000 donation to a charity of Corey's choice. He is choosing Ride To Walk, in Lincoln, CA, in honor of his late-niece, putting the money toward a memorial scholarship he and his wife have set up in her name. Corey's niece passed away in December at age four from cerebral palsy.

“This award is dedicated to not only my late niece, the inspiration behind this particular journey, but to all of those individuals who want to live out their dreams and to know that anything is possible as long as you set your mind and heart to do it,” Corey said. "We are also reminded that heroes just everyday people who tackle things that are greater than themselves. This award is such an honor and has humbled greatly."

Local Hero and World Record Holder May Not Race

Contact: Joe Petersen

Phone: (661)699-2864

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local Hero and World Record Holder May Not Race

Bakersfield, CA April 27, 2010: Joe Petersen, Transcontinental Cycling World Record holder and local fitness trainer, recently returned from a training trip in Dallas with his tandem cycling partner. After his plane touched down he discovered a disaster—his $9,000 custom carbon fiber bike, which was designed to help him break his own world record, had broken in half during the flight. Carbon fiber is the same material used to make fighter jets because of its durability and light weight.

"I can't figure out how they managed to break it," says Joe. "I have traveled with my bike several times and never had a problem like this." Joe is scheduled to Ride in the Race Across America in a team event on Saturday, June 12. The race begins in Oceanside, CA and ends in Annapolis, Maryland.

US Air offered Joe no explanation for the break, and said that they were not responsible because it was in a box. Joe believed that a few scratches might be understandable, but it takes a lot of effort to break carbon fiber and believes that this damage was caused by either gross negligence or willful vandalism.

Joe is a local advocate for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation and a strong advocate for children's fitness and fighting childhood obesity. He is a popular motivational speaker, personal trainer, and owns Building Better Bodies Fitness, a boot camp and circuit training center for people of all fitness levels.

-End-

Resources: www.buildingbetterbodies.org

www.RaceAcrossAmerica.org

Football officiating training

If you played the game or you watched it from the stands or from the comfort of your living room couch, and you have time this summer and fall, then consider becoming a football official. The Kern County Officials Assn./Football Unit is looking for prospective members to work local area youth and high school football. Training begins in a few months so that you can hit the field from the opening kickoff in September.

You can make some extra money, find a reason to stay fit, and contribute to the student-athlete's positive experience. For more information on what it may take and to get information about the training, contact Dennis Matthews at dcmatt2000@yahoo.com, or leave your name and contact numbers at 661.633.3559.

Of Football, Emotions and Mispelling...

Imagine if you can the run. You, the quarterback of a proud school. A school that has built a reputation for winning. Your school has won so many times in the past, that even as a relatively low seed that has lost to a small division school (Frontier), you still garner front page press. Your school is so powerful that even as a playoff also ran, you muster the ghosts of seasons past and make a run to the title game, the title game! You have been on all of the local news shows, tons of pictures in the paper, a true leader in the high school football community. Then it happens, BOOM!, a picture of you crying on the front page of the paper being consoled by a child somewhere between primary and puberty.

This story isn't really about the picture of Cody Kessler possibly crying. I mean, maybe he is crying. According to the story in the Californian, he is crying after scoring a touchdown. After a touchdown? Do you cry after a touchdown? Is this really correct? What skinny kid who never tried out for the team is seeking retribution against one of the areas best football players?

For the record, I don't even know a kid who attends Centennial. My daughter goes to Frontier High School. Frontier by the way, would seem to be the media darling since they had one loss and beat Centennial, but I do get it. Centennial has a great history. The end of my disclaimer.

Is the person who wrote the caption of Cody Kessler "crying", the same person who misspelled his name? Who proofreads this stuff? Just sayin'. I know, it must be the same person who wrote "crys" for the real word "cries" in the same sentence.

So let me get this straight, Cody Kessler's name was mispelled. The word "cries" was spelled as "crys" and there is a photo of him "crying" after he led his team to a touchdown on the front page of the paper. Why on earth? That's all, why on earth. Who signed off on this garbage. "Hey Joe, great job on catching the kid crying, now make sure you misspell his name AND misspell "cries" and then put it on the front page and we'll really get a laugh!

People, I am just a dad. The dad of a beautiful girl who attends Frontier High School. The only reason I watch is because of an interest in local sports. I attended South High a long time ago. I drove to Fresno to watch South get destroyed by Clovis West in "95. A picture of Cody Kessler crying on the cover? Way to go Californian, if he is actually crying. Misspelling his name? Even better. Misspelling cries on the cover? Too many budget cuts? I know times are tough, but the people who proof, if there are any, need to pay attention to tteh sppelinng, at least on the front page.

Congratulations to the teams and athletes who made it to the section finals. You made us all proud!

Root on the Renegades with a Trip on the BC Rooter Bus!

Travel in style with the rowdiest bunch of football fans around and cheer on the Bakersfield College Renegades football team!

Bakersfield College’s Alumni Association will be sponsoring a bus trip to the final football game of the regular season against College of the Canyons on Saturday, November 14. Game time is 7 p.m., and the bus will leave from Bakersfield College’s Haley and Panorama parking lot at 4:30 p.m. and return immediately following the game.

Cost for the bus trip is $25 per person and does not include food or beverages. Riders may feel free to bring their own refreshments. Seats are available for 55 passengers, but are open on a first come, first served basis.

Call the Bakersfield College Alumni Association office at 395-4619 or alumna Sally Hill at 322-3175 to RSVP. You can also reserve your spot by taking your $25 to the Bakersfield College Foundation Office at Bakersfield College in the Administration Building, office A-19.

“Attacking the Cure” with BC Volleyball

In an effort to raise awareness and money for the world’s most common cause of cancer death in women, Bakersfield College’s volleyball team presents their second annual “Attacking the Cure” campaign Friday night as the Renegades prepare to host College of the Canyons.

The campaign will help to raise money for breast cancer awareness through the Kern County branch of the American Cancer Society. Donations will be accepted throughout the month of October, which has been designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with the proceeds of the campaign going directly to the American Cancer Society.

Players from both Bakersfield College and College of the Canyons will recognize the event by wearing pink. Bakersfield College will warm up for the game in pink shirts, and then wear pink socks and ribbons during play. Representatives from the American Cancer Society will be on hand to accept donations, distribute information and communicate about the disease.

The “Attacking the Cure” campaign was started by Bakersfield College head coach Carl Ferreira, who recognized that one in eight of the players on his team would be affected by the disease in their lifetime.

“Collegiate women’s volleyball has adopted breast cancer research as their charity of choice this year,” explained Ferreira. “While there are a couple of national programs in place, our student athletes felt it was important to support local women in their fight and we are working directly with the local American Cancer Society.”

The team is accepting flat donations or pledges “per kill” – which the team averages 40 of per night.

The Bakersfield College versus College of the Canyons volleyball game is Friday, October 30 at 7 p.m. in the Gil Bishop Athletics Center at Bakersfield College. Entry to the game is free and no donation is necessary.

According to the American Cancer Society:

1 in 8 women, or 12.6 percent, will get breast cancer in her lifetime.
Breast cancer risk increases with age and every woman is at risk.
Every 13 minutes a woman dies of breast cancer.
Seventy-seven percent of women with breast cancer are over 50.
More than 1.7 million women who have had breast cancer are still alive in the United States.
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women between the ages of 15 and 54, and the second cause of cancer death in women 55 to 74.
Seventy-one percent of black women diagnosed with breast cancer experience a five-year survival rate, while 86 percent of white women experience five-year survival.
The first sign of breast cancer usually shows up on a woman's mammogram before it can be felt or any other symptoms are present.
Risks for breast cancer include a family history, atypical hyperplasia, delaying pregnancy until after age 30 or never becoming pregnant, early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), current use or use in the last 10 years of oral contraceptives and daily consumption of alcohol.
Early detection of breast cancer, through monthly breast self-exam and particularly yearly mammography after age 40, offers the best chance for survival.
Ninety-six percent of women who find and treat breast cancer early will be cancer-free after five years.
More than 80 percent of breast lumps are not cancerous, but benign such as fibrocystic breast disease.
Oral contraceptives may cause a slight increase in breast cancer risk; however 10 years after discontinuing use of oral contraceptives the risk is the same as for women who never used the pill.
Estrogen replacement therapy for more than five years slightly increases breast cancer risk; however the increased risk appears to disappear five to 10 years after discontinuing the use of estrogen replacement therapy.
Breast self-exams should begin by age 20.

Residential Burglaries/ Sports Card Collection Stolen

Last friday, my entire house was ransacked by burglars...they took pretty much everything of value--stereos, DVD / CD's, digital cameras/ laptops, etc all stuff that I pretty much dont care about....however one thing that I do care about was my sports card collection including several thousand autograph cards and game used cards, autograph baseballs and bats...and for reasons more than the value...sure there were some cards of value, but most represented childhood memories such as meeting some players when I was little kid, or are just personal collections of my favorite teams. Ive been collecting those cards for 25 years...so if anyone sees any large amounts of autographs for sale at the swap meet, pawn shop, or any tips please email me at danboytoys@yahoo.com or contact the BPD.

The cards that are missing are mostly Patriots/ Cubs/ Blackhawks/ Bulls / Anaheim Ducks/ and the University of Illinois, Michigan, and Fresno State...as welll as many autographs and game used cards. Other items include Autograph baseballs, bats, and mini helmets. Also were large numbers of Paul Pinegar (Fresno), J. Leman (Illinois), Kurt Kittner (Illinois).

Opening Day

Coffee is brewing, hunting vest and duffle bags filled with shells, gun cases loaded with shotguns, ice chest ready, men's laughter... trucks loaded up and motors started...this is the gathering place...this is opening day...DOVE SEASON HAS STARTED~

Once the morning shoot is over the guys will head home, freshen up and gather at one of two places here in BAKO for lunch (most of Bako men do this). Luigi's (Italian) or Woolgrowers (Basque) to BRAG about their shooting prowness, RAG on their counterparts about their shooting mishaps and do the male bonding! My dad, Phil Rucks, RIP, will be there in spirit ... toasting right along with the guys. I swell with pride for my men. And can't wait to hear about the morning adventures when they all get home, before they crash for a nap and then get back up to do it all over again.

LOVE IT~ 38 years of this and it always has the same great feel every opening!

Bill takes my Dad's coffee cup with him every hunt since dad passed. His way of including him.

To think this all started with a little Red Rider BB gun.

BC Alumni Barbecue Coming September 10

The Bakersfield College Alumni Association welcomes the public to join in the festivities at the 55^th annual BBQ, September 10 at Stramler Park on North Chester. All proceeds from the event will assist deserving students with scholarships and benefit athletics on campus. The $20 admittance to the event features a steak or chicken dinner and live entertainment by the Tony Ernst Band.

According to John Boydstun, an original founding member of the Bakersfield College Alumni Association, the group was founded in 1946. World War II had just ended and veterans were returning home. Many of them were graduates of Bakersfield College, eager to renew treasured friendships enjoyed as classmates. Ergo, the Alumni Association was formed. Boydstun further asserts, “The idea was born from a few folks celebrating the end of the war at a dance held in the old Bakersfield Inn Ballroom. There were 20 original members, and dues were a mere $3 a year.” (Dues are only $25 a year today!) In addition to Boydstun, class of 1939, other original board members included Virginia Burress Mosconi, Joe Mosconi, David Fanucchi, Rue Pollock, Win Cooper, Hazel Morton Reese, Art Sargeant, and Doyle Miller. Boydstun was the first President and Miller, a local judge, wrote the first constitution.

Bakersfield College has produced many successful alumni including John Boydstun, Charlie Dodge, Herb Loken, Dan O’Neill, David Fanucchi, Bill Williamson, Glenn Bultman, Dr. Romain Clerou, Louie Lemucchi, Grace Bird, Virginia Mosconi, Marie Amestoy, Ed Simonson, Edna Taber, Dean Gay, Mary K. Shell, Dr. Robert Sheldon, Angus Marchbanks, Don Hart, Jim Young, and Dr. David Zachery. Other notables include Gary Friedman, Superior Court Judge, Morgan Clayton, Owner Tel-Tec, Colby Lewis, Pitcher for the Texas Rangers, Harvey Hall, Mayor, Ken Byrum Attorney, Dean Florez, California Senator, Frank Gifford of football fame, and Hank Pfister of tennis fame.

This year’s barbecue is a far cry from the first of such events. According to Herb Loken, former Bakersfield College Athletic Director, “the initial barbecues, first organized by Dean Gay, were men-only events held at Jastro Park. In attendance were BC athletic supporters, the Renegade football team and its first coach, Jack Frost. All they required was a keg and steaks!” Loken subsequently suggested the inclusion of women and the expansion of the event as a fundraiser.

The Alumni Board invites you to join Bakersfield College alumni, faculty, athletic teams, and the community on September 10 at Stramler Park. Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served from 6 – 8 p.m. The event, sponsored by KERN, KGET, and the Diane S. Lake Family, is the major fundraiser of the year for the Alumni Association. All proceeds benefit Bakersfield College students academically and athletically. Tickets can be purchased at the Bakersfield College Ticket Office (395-4619) or at the gate.

For further information about the Bakersfield College Alumni Association Barbecue, call Chairperson Sally Hill at 322-3175. For further information about the Alumni Association, call Bakersfield College Alumni Association President Becki Whitson at 395-4619.

Information for this article provided by John Boydstun, Bakersfield College cass of 1939 (Owner of Boydstun Realty), Herb Loken, former Bakersfield College Athletic Director, the late James Radoumis, Bakersfield College class of 1939 (Retired from Kern County Board of Trade) and Sally Hill, Bakersfield College class of 1966 (Retired Bakersfield College Psychology Professor).

Aakhus qualifies for Short Course Nationals

Bakersfield Swim Club's, Randy Aakhus qualifed his 200 Indivdual Medely for the Short Course National competition at the USA Swimming Jr. Nationals. Seeded 68th from a field of 193 competitiors, Aakhus finsihed with a time of 2:09.75 in 47th place.. The Short Course Championship will be held at the King Aquatic Center in Federal Way Washington in December. Aakhus, a three year Bakersfield Californian all area athlete will be a senior this year at Frontier High school.

Local Athletes to Compete in Federal Way

Frontier High School's Randy Aakhus and Mary Hansen from Immanuel Christrian will compete in the 2009 USA Swimming Junior National Competition. The local athletes who swim for the Bakersfield Swim Club will compete in Federal Way Washington at the King Aquatic Center August 10-14.

The USA Junior Nationals features qualifying athletes 18 years and younger from all over the United States. This event will serve as partial selection for the 2009 Youth Team World Cup competitions (the "World Cups"), which will be
conducted in Stockholm, Sweden November 10-11, 2009 and Berlin, Germany November 14-15, 2009.and

2009 OAKLAND RAIDERS 50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

BAKERSFIELD RAIDER NATION CLUB

2009 GAME DAY SCHEDULE

Pre-Season

Thursday August 13th 7:00pm vs Dallas Cowboys

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Saturday August 22nd 5:00pm @ San Francisco 49ers

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Saturday August 29th 1:00pm vs New Orleans Saints

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Thursday September 3rd 7:00pm @ Seattle Seahawks

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

2009 Oakland Raiders 50th Anniversary Season

Monday September 14th 7:00pm vs San Diego Chargers

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday September 20th 10:00am @ Kansas City Chiefs

@ Marie Callender's

Sunday September 27th 1:00pm vs Denver Broncos

@ The Eagles Club

Sunday October 4th 10:00am @ Houston Texans

@ Marie Callender's

Sunday October 11th 10:00am @ New York Giants

@ Marie Callender's

Sunday October 18th 1:00pm vs Philadelphia Eagles

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday October 25th 1:00pm vs New York Jets

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday November 1st 1:00pm @ San Diego Chargers

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Bye Week

Sunday November 15th 1:00pm vs Kansas City Chiefs

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday November 22nd 1:00 pm vs Cincinnati Bengals

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Thursday November 26th 1:00pm @ Dallas Cowboys ....

Happy Thanksgiving....

Sunday December 6th 10:00am @ Pittsburgh Steelers

@ Marie Callender's

Sunday December 13th 1:00pm vs Washington Redskins

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday December 20th 1:00 pm @ Denver Broncos

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

Sunday December 27th 10:00am @ Cleveland Browns

@ Marie Callender's

Sunday January 3rd 1:00pm vs Baltimore Ravens

@ Wings Pizza 'N' Things

*Marie Callender's 3801 California Ave. 327-0477

* Wings Pizza 'N' Things 7900 District Blvd. 836-2220

Local UFC fighter Brian Cobb looks at future

A Warrior’s Journey
Bakersfield MMA fighter Brian Cobb looks back at his first UFC fight with hopes for future Octagon redemption and glory.

Above: Brian Cobb

By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia.com editor
Photos by Tanya Leonzo (Tanya X)

What elements make up a true warrior?

Strength, intelligence, skill, and patience are undoubtedly at the top of the list.

For CSUB wrestling alumni and professional Bakersfield MMA (mixed martial arts,) fighter Brian Cobb (18-5,) those warrior-like qualities are omnipresent.

It's been almost two years since Bakotopia last sat down with Cobb as he was making waves in the MMA world, fresh from a TKO win over Japan's Kenichiro Togashi in Irvine. That win helped his personal fighting record grow through ‘08 and into ‘09 as a Central Valley PFC (Palace Fighting Championship) title holder.

Upbeat and polite during our original '07 Bakotopia cover photoshoot and interview, Cobb's humble demeanor hasn't been put into submission for the sake of his new rank as an official UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), fighter. Fighting as a lightweight, he understands opportunities like this aren't just handed out to anyone.

Above: Brian Cobb 2007 Bakotopia cover & interview

“When you add up every thing that's happened, it's kind of mind-blowing,” said Cobb, 28, during a Saturday afternoon inside The Barbell Club gym in Bakersfield, where he splits regular training sessions along with another local facility, Bakersfield Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Recalling being notified about an offer to fight in UFC 95, on February 21, 2009 in London, England, a life-changing decision had to be made in order to undergo the processes for UFC participation as a light-weight contender.

“My agent called me about 36 hours before the flight to England,” he remembered. “He told me one of their fighters (Justin Buchholz) scheduled for UFC 95 contracted a staph infection in his elbow and couldn’t fight. The UFC knew who I was and my record, and was looking for a replacement, and was I interested?

The next 24 hours was a whirlwind of me getting paperwork, running to LA for a physical, a brain scan, cutting weight, talking to my coaches, and packing - I fought seven days later.”

Making calls to trainers, family and friends, Cobb didn’t have his usual training time of weeks or months to study his Liverpool opponent, Terry Etim, who already had made four previous UFC appearances.

“I called my MMA coach, Josh Allen, then Matt Baker my Jiu-Jitsu coach to ask them what I should do over the course of this day and how to prepare for

this fight,” he said. “I worked out about three times, and was on the phone taking care of legal issues and paperwork …Then I called my folks.”

Still coming to terms with their son’s line of sport, Cobb’s parents are both proud of their son, and equally concerned for his safety. After all, this isn’t high school wrestling with his brother at Bellarmine College Prep in San Jose - Cobb’s old high school.

A whirlwind of memories begin to flow from high school, to London, and back as our conversation continues …

Above: Brian Cobb has come a long way since his days at Bellermine Prep in San Jose, CA.

“My dad is pretty proud now, but my mom wouldn’t watch us wrestle in high school,” he said laughing mildly. “During the first match she ever went to, my older brother got picked up, dropped on his shoulder, broke his collar bone and was screaming. She found out I had become an MMA fighter after she ‘Googled’ my name. She saw my UFC bout, but it was difficult for her.”

Back in London and ready to enter the big-time ranks of potential MMA mega-stardom, nothing could prepare a fighter even at Cobb’s level for the hype leading up to the February bout.

If you recall the early days of UFC, it was a different scene altogether.

The original U.S. UFC televised brand started out as a Pay-Per-View freak-show of sorts in ‘93, pitting completely different weight classes and disciplines against each other - often ending in bloody injury. Colorful personalities like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter Royce Gracie, Greco Roman wrestler Dan Severn, Ken Shamrock, and Pit-Fighter, Tank Abbott - who boasted of learning his technique in bar brawls, made their names in the fighting “Octagon” cage. The Octagon is UFC's version of the boxing ring.

After years of pressure from U.S. politicians like John McCain, rules were set in place to help protect fighters, along with proper weight classes. These changes helped turn the original grassroots beginnings of UFC into a worldwide sports franchise, complete with new legends like, Tito Ortiz (another CSUB wrestling alumnus,) and Chuck Liddell, among others.

A fan of the UFC, Cobb remembers his first MMA match after college wrestling in 2004.

“The first time you get hit and the sting hits you, you automatically question “Is this what I really wanna be doing?” And then you punch them back and you see that in their eyes. It’s either for you, or it isn’t. It was for me and I enjoyed it.”

Above: Brian Cobb and Bakotopia Editor Matt Munoz prepare for the battle of the century!

A media blitz, with a televised weigh-in before his UFC debut is something he never expected to happen so quickly, but like his first punch, he knew this was where he was supposed to be.

“I was pretty relaxed about the whole thing, and I knew the weigh-in would be a big production,” he said. “I enjoyed it and tried to take it all in. I didn’t want to waste energy being anxious. By the time I stepped in the cage, I was so relaxed and so confident the thought of me losing never crossed my mind.”

Back at home on the night of the fight, Bakersfield fans cheered at the announcement of his name, and the signal that it was time to go.

As he’d done numerous fights before, Cobb was used to a couple of minutes of last minute mental prep time during pre-fight announcements. This time, it didn’t appen.

“The last three years, I was the main event on every card I was on - they call you to the middle, go over the rules, that sort of production for the fans to let you know this is a title fight,” he explained. “I was there waiting to go in front of the ref, and the next thing you know, he’s like, ‘Ready? Fight!’ I was thrown off guard for a second, and now I gotta get into my game. I didn’t have my coaches there with me - I had the coaches that were supposed to be there with Justin”.

Things started out promising for Cobb, who stands at 5' 11,” in the first round as he directly engaged the taller (6' 1”) Etim, carefully striking with a few opening shots. Etim, who rapidly struck Cobb with some visually stinging low kicks to the leg, made the crowd gasp each time they connected.

“The game plan was to check the leg kick, block it and then counter strike,” he remembered. “I ate about two of them, and I realized I wasn’t going to take anymore. At that point the damage was done. I tried to check him, but my leg was too slow, my strike wasn’t happening, because of the reach - it was the first time I had ever fought someone taller than me. So, I resorted back to what I do best, so you see me crouch and get in that wrestling stance, and I’m waiting for opportunities to take him down.”

And he does in the middle of the first round. Left leg visually welting from the swift leg kicks of Etim, Cobb does his best to combat anymore damage. The first round ends giving Cobb a chance to re-think his approach.

Brian Cobb and UK fighter Terry Etim in the heat of battle during UFC 95 in London, England on Feb. 21.

The second round started much like the first, with more kicks, including one to the head of Cobb that knocked him down. Etim took advantage of the situation by attempting to land more punches. Cobb effectively deflected a few - but just as soon as it looked like Cobb would be making a comeback, the fight was stopped by the referee, much to the dismay of Cobb and many fans. Etim was proclaimed the winner by TKO.

“I was really relaxed,” he said looking back at his first time in the UFC. I probably wasted more energy after the fight was over, being really frustrated with not fighting well and losing than I did before being anxious.”

"I'll be back..."

Upon returning home, Cobb was already looking forward to his next three UFC bouts, as part of his four bout deal with the organization. In true warrior form, he still keeps it cool as ever.

“I feel like I’ve gotten better in the last six months since that fight,” he said. “It’s really been a motivating factor. I’m mad that I lost, but sometimes the best thing for you is a loss. It re-focuses the group and the training. I’m happy with the progress that’s been made since then.”

The next UFC event (UFC 100,) is scheduled for July 11, in Las Vegas, Nev. Cobb intends on watching a re-broadcast upon his return from a family camping trip, and looks forward to his return to the Octagon.

“I’m hoping to make it to UFC 104 in Los Angeles this October,” said Cobb confidently.

Thanking his loving wife Erin, family, and fans for continued support, Cobb wants to remind Bakersfield of his drive to bring a UFC championship back home.

“I take this very seriously, and really want people from Bakersfield to know that they’re represented well,” he said.

*Bakotopia will continue to follow the career of Brian Cobb and the ever-growing Bakersfield MMA scene in future issues, so stay tuned!

For more on Brian Cobb, visit: www.sherdog.com

Also printed in Bakotopia magazine, issue 58, 7-9-09
(CLICK ON COVER TO FIND A FREE BAKO MAG RACK NEAR YOU!)

Behind the Mask of the KHSD

The parents, politicians, and pundits of Bakersfield have been grappling with an explosive economic issue. Which to cut, teacher pay or JV sports, to save our schools.

In an attempt to solve the KHSD budget crisis, Mr. Mettler, a very savvy politician and KHSD Trustee, made a suggestion that caused otherwise complacent parents and coaches to rise up and vent their fears and frustrations at more than one board meeting. The plea was urgent as they cried out to the trustees with one voice. It was highly emotional, frighteningly illogical, and completely irrelevant. I include myself as a contributor to this turbulent, tumultuous outcry, albeit for “the other side,” as I recommended the board eliminate all athletics and all summer school programs. However, I did so knowing that it would never happen, and also knowing that I might be vilified for making such an awful, controversial, and ridiculous suggestion. I was ready for the citizenry, loaded for bear, to parade down my street screaming for my head on a platter.

Surprise, surprise, surprise. The number of private messages and anonymous replies supporting, encouraging, and congratulating me on my article and my idea told me that “the other side” would be heard in a voice as strong as the sports fans’ complaint. And yet, so far in the commercial media, no other voice has publicly disagreed with Mr. Mettler but mine. Not surprisingly, however, JV sports was “saved” and Bakersfield drew a sigh of relief heard around the county. God bless the board, they saved sports!

Now, on the truth. There are three things that you may not know. And I base this “inside information” on my background as a negotiator in a previous life, as a current high school teacher married to another, albeit more brilliant, more savvy, and more veteran master high school teacher, and as the son of parents who’ve run a few big things in their time, in Chicago.

First, high school sports was never really on the chopping block. Second, Mr. Mettler got exactly what he wanted. And third, the crisis is still looming and it’s going to hurt your child badly.

High school athletics is its own economy. High school athletics has certain laws governing it. And high school athletics will never be cut, no matter how important the pooh-bah is that makes the suggestion or threat to cut it. I’ve been told an administrator once remarked that sports will always win out with regards to a specific conflict between a class requirement and a sporting event. More recently, a highly respected and awarded teacher was booted out of her amazing classroom because “Wrestling needs more room.” Such is the mentality of our leaders. Why, you ask? Let me tell you.

Football makes money. A lot of money. Sports like golf, tennis, and swimming cost the district thousands of dollars each year and never make a profit. They don’t even break even. But it’s ok, because the profits from football cover all those expenses. In other words, without football, you wouldn’t have those other sports because their sugar daddy would be gone. And you can’t suggest “pay to play” as it’s illegal. And if you just wanted to keep football and nothing else, you break the law again. Title 9 says students need fair and equal access, so if you have boys football, then you need girls volleyball. But since there are twice as many boys on the football teams, you’d need two girls’ sports to make it equal. But if you had two girl sports, then it’s unfair, because boys don’t have two sports to choose from, only one (football) and so you’d have to add boys’ soccer. And on and on it goes, until you come to realize something. Forget tradition, forget your own memories of playing, forget that it’s your own sweet child on that field of green…if it’s just boiled down to its essence—economy and law—then the suggestion to cut any sport is laughable and anyone who fell for the grandstanding play by Mr. Mettler was suckered in to a side show that distracted or deflected our attention from the true move in Mr. Mettler’s game winning strategy. High school sports was never really on the chopping block. And secretly, I’m glad because I’m a huge fan. I played as a kid myself, I lived in Chicago during the Bulls dynasty, and even though I’m an Illini alum, I’m a Buckeye in my heart. Nonetheless, on the topic at hand, Mr. Mettler’s personal agenda was advanced, and he got exactly what he wanted.

Public figures like Trustee Mettler are under a different kind of scrutiny than the common man. The toughest questions I am asked include “did you take out the trash?” And I could answer “no, I just need a break from it all, and a 20 minute drive, singing loudly with the breeze in my hair, clears my head enough to deal with life. After that I’ll take out the stinking trash.” But instead I answer “yeah, I’m getting to it soon.” On the other hand, a public figure is asked, “Why did you make that destructive suggestion? Are you an idiot?” and he could answer, “No, it’s because I have a secret agenda and you’re a dupe that I can control by doing it this way” but instead he answers, “no, I just love our kids and want to save their education.” Public figures always have agendas. That’s their job--to promote their agendas, both public and personal. If it wasn’t, there would be no need for them.

Based on Mr. Mettler’s activities on the KHSD board, it would seem his personal agenda is to promote the private school voucher program. If he could disable the public school system by debilitating the teachers economically and disparaging them in the media, and by confusing the public by mixing up the issues (equating JV sports to a child’s education, for example) then he has successfully made the case for sending your child to the much better equipped and more financially sound private school.

He said a pay cut in the classroom saves education. The message seemed to be that Junior Varsity sports is more valuable than classroom education. And no one paused to think that over and reply “say what?” Instead everyone said “oh yes, cut teacher pay, and save our baby’s ball team, because we value classroom education less than little Johnnie’s ball throwing activities.”

Let me put this into perspective. Governor Schwarzenegger declared a “state of fiscal emergency” for California last week. The State is issuing IOUs instead of payment to businesses and citizens. Our school board itself said at the last meeting that in three years the KHSD is “going to fall off the cliff” financially. 35 Million dollars needs to be in their bank account every month just to cover expenses. Every month. Athletics costs over 6 Million dollars a year. JV alone costs almost half a million dollars a year. And the latest inspiring idea from the sports fans? “Let’s sell t-shirts and have a car wash to raise the money.” Really. It was said by a highly respected coach that I admire. My heart goes out to her and all coaches. I hurt for them; they are my brothers and sisters. But it was said. Really. I can imagine the glee Mr. Mettler must have felt, watching the circus he created actually play out just as he planned.

I don’t know if he is speaking for himself, independent of the board’s approval. Or maybe he’s the mouthpiece for the board, what we would call a “foot-soldier for the Capos” in Chicago (let the conspiracy theorists chew that one) and this is their collaborative plan as Bakersfield’s axis of evil. Or maybe, like a colleague of mine stated, he’s a teacher-hating bureaucrat intent on dismantling the district for his own nefarious purposes. I really don’t know. But I do know that if his personal agenda is to promote the private school voucher program, he had a mighty little victory at the last board meeting to advance that personal agenda. Unfortunately, it’s your child that’s caught in the crossfire, and if they’re a high school student, they’re going to be hurt badly, one way or another, as this crisis looms over the next few months.

Whatever ultimately gets cut or not cut to resolve this crisis, it will be the student who suffers the most. I won’t address teacher pay except to say this: Google search “Prop 98” and then search the role of a trustee. Legally, the classroom is protected. And technically, a trustee doesn’t get to say what teachers make. OK, then Google search the KHSD report card. We are one of the lowest scoring districts in the lowest scoring state in our nation. Let that settle in a bit. And it is our students’ academic improvement that drives everything the teacher does to change that report card and to give your child the opportunity, the opportunity, to become an independent, free, and critically thinking life long learner. Whether or not the child chooses to take advantage of that opportunity is entirely up to them. And you, the parent. Socially, then, the classroom is protected, assuming the adults invested in the system (parents and trustees) have the same common sensical philosophy as teachers do, which is “student education, above all else.” Politically, however, the classroom is the new battleground. And the politicians are focused on the money, not the kid. No matter what they say in front of a TV camera, it’s their job to keep the school solvent, not to keep little Johnny playing ball at our expense. And while they keep us solvent, it’s the teacher’s job to prepare your child for freedom. So, will Mr. Mettler really shorten the school year? Will he really advocate paying teachers less for doing more, for doing the sacred and honorable job of preparing this generation for adulthood and the myriad of professions therein? Yes. He will. And you’ll let him as long as you agree with him and don’t stop to question his true intent or purpose.

As a teacher of rhetoric, I instruct my students to look beyond the face value of a text. They discover the author’s purpose or agenda, and they write the extent to which they agree or disagree with the author’s true message. When applying that to this explosive economic issue facing the KHSD and to the comments and suggestions being made by the parents, politicians, and pundits, you might not find any answers either, but you certainly would be able to see when the public is being suckered into a carefully crafted carnival style sideshow at the expense of your child’s future. As Thomas Jefferson so eloquently said, “only the educated are truly free.”

MONAGHAN MOTORSPORTS STATELINE RUN

The MONAGHAN MOTORSPORTS STATELINE C.A.R.E RUN is here again. Mark your

calendars and join us this October 10-11, 2009. Tell your friends, coworkers, and bosses

(if you like them). ALL the money we collect on this run goes to Cancer Awareness

Research and Education aka C.A.R.E.. Don't have a dirt bike or quad... no problem. All

vehicles are invited. Motorcycles, hot rods, cars, trucks, suvs, jeeps, dirt bikes, quads,

atvs, etc.... After the ride we meet in the banquet room for an all you can eat buffet and

raffle. You can pick up some great stuff at this raffle and again the proceeds go to

C.A.R.E.. So, come out, have fun, support a great cause, and make a lot of great friends.

HOLLYWOOD BIG MOVIE ABOUT MY HIGH SCHOOL CRUSH

I knew and admired Cherie Currie through Jr. High and part of high school, even asked her out once, but she thought I was joking and laughed it off, I was heart was broken. Like Hank Willaim's song...I can't help it if I'm still in love with you. I had a channce to be in the movie as an extra but couldn't get off work. The YOUTUBE with thisis my love song to Cherie Currie.

Currie is the co-author of Neon Angel: The Cherie Currie Story, in which she tells of her trials and tribulations growing up in California in the '70s, her struggles with drugs and alcohol, and her days with The Runaways. The book is the basic material for the movie The Runaways\Neon Angels^[1] ^[2], starring Kristen Stewart. Dakota Fanning will play the role of Currie.

Currie was married to actor Robert Hays in the 1990s and they have one son. They are now divorced.^{[citation needed]}

In 2008, Currie contributed to Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna's book, Cherry Bomb.^[4][5]

Lakers or Loosers

In this day and age when so many children have poor role models, it is a shame for the highly paid sports teams to show up for a congratulatory parade from their devoted fans in clothing more likely seen on gang members. I think they are paid way too much money to not show up looking like true role models, wearing suits emulating true professionals and team players. It is no surprise they have fans who destroyed personal property and ruined the outcome for so many people after they won. Shame on the Lakers!

Fathers Day gift ideas for the sports fan

It seems that every year it gets harder to find that special something for dad. With Fathers Day right around the corner it will be time to start buying that one-of-a-kind gift to make his Fathers day special. If you are like me, you sometimes just cannot figure out what to buy dad. The idea of one more boring tie, cheesy aftershave or loud sweater is just too much to bear.

Being a sports fan and father myself, I thought I might suggest a few gift ideas if your dad is a sports enthusiast. There are many sports-related gift ideas that he is sure to enjoy. To help you out, here are some ideas:

One great Fathers Day gift idea is to give dad tickets to a sporting event. Each summer Bakersfield is home to professional baseball with the Bakersfield Blaze, a Class-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers; and the Bakersfield Brigade, a member of pro soccer's Premiere Developmental League. You can either purchase tickets for these events online, at the individual team websites or at the venue box offices. The price range is $10-$20 for a pair of tickets. Either way, every sports fan enjoys going to a live sporting event to cheer on their favorite hometown team.

What sports fan doesn’t like to eat and watch sports? So how about a gift certificate to their favorite local sports bar or sports themed restaurant? Places like Tailgater’s, Kosmos, or Woody’s will let your sports fan enjoy both good food and a good game or event. It is almost like going to a live sporting event, except without having to deal with the hot summer weather or parking conditions. Every sports fan will enjoy this Fathers Day gift. The price range varies depending on your appetite.

So you are looking for the unique gift for your outdoor sports fan. How about an all-day rock climbing class with Sierra South Mountain Sports in Kernville, it’s sure to get them into the action. Prices start at around $120 and up, and include all the necessary gear.

Dad’s afraid of heights? No problem, you could get him a half-day jam or a sunset mountain bike cruise with Mountain River Adventures in Kernville. Prices start at around $50, and include the bicycle rental. Pitch in for mom too. What better gift for dad than taking in a breathtaking sunset over the Kern River Valley with the love of his life.

Is dad a hockey fan? Skating or hockey lessons at Bakersfield Ice Sports Center are sure to get him into the action. Prices start at around $135 and up, and include skate rental and hockey gear.

So dear ole dad is a racin’ fan. A gift certificate to Superkart Racing in Bakersfield could be your winner. The price ranges from $9 for an introductory session to $60 for a Grand Prix race.

An additional Fathers Day gift idea is to give your sports fan some apparel for their favorite team. Whether you give them a Condors team jersey, Blaze Baseball hat, BC T-shirt, or CSUB sweatshirt, they are sure to love anything with the logo of their favorite Bakersfield team on it. If you are not sure what apparel they would like, you can always get them a bobble-head, stadium seat or team blanket. Either way, dad will be happy with these Fathers Day gift ideas. These items can be purchased online from the team websites or at local campus stores and stadium shops. Prices can range from $20-$150.

If you have a golfer to buy for on Fathers Day, there are many great gift ideas to choose from. At Pro Shop Golf you can buy them balls, tees, a golf towel, or perhaps that new custom putter or sand wedge that they have been talking about from Golfcraft Custom Clubs. You can also get them a gift certificate to their favorite driving range, so they can log some extra practice hours. Or, you can even buy them a gift certificate for a round of golf at their favorite golf course. The price range is $50-$500, and there are many options when it comes to gifts for Bakersfield golfers.

Finally, if you are like many others feeling the pinch of the nations tough economic times, don’t miss out on still getting dad something great for Fathers Day. Retro Active Sports in Bakersfield has a good assortment of gently used sports gear for dad, including golf clubs, tennis racquets, and exercise equipment. The price ranges vary but are easy on the wallet.

Hopefully, these ideas will make it a little easier when it comes time to buying that Fathers Day gift for your sports fan.

Happy Fathers Day

Ashley Anne App ATV Racer injured

Ashley Anne App is a lifelong Kern County resident. She ws born Sept 4, 1987and raised in a small mountain community of Glennville, located approximately 45 miles northeast of Bakersfield. Her first school years were spent at Linns Valley School in Glennville
   She was a member of the Sierra Mountaineer’s 4-H club, participating in horse shows all over Kern County. Every year she took both horses and a pig she raised to the Kern County Fair.
   Her father John App and wife Terri also lived in Glennville allowing Ashley the opportunity of helping them on their cattle ranch. Gathering Branding roping and spending time with her family were an important part of her life. Cousins Jennifer and Midnight Pewitt (Midnight passed away in 2007 while riding a quad on the family ranch) were a huge part of each summer.
   Her High School years were spent at North High School. Her time was very fully, with studies staying on the honor roll, playing for North High Softball and a four year member of North High FFA, Ashley served as president her senior year. Ashley also was a member of the High School Motor Sports Team. She could jump in and do anything the guys could do some times better. Her advisor told me he told the guys on the team Ashley wasn’t your typical girl, she didn’t bring her purse to shop….in other words look out.
   The last four years Ashley spent most of her time in Taft. Attending Taft collage, where she graduated with her AA and AS degrees in 2008. She worked for True Value and Western Stockman’s Market during this time to help pay for collage expenses. Ashley had always intended on attending Taft Collage Dental Hygiene Program but after an ATV accident in 2008 she was thinking about X-Ray tech or Physical Therapist.
   Ashley being very competitive her entire life began riding quads 4 years ago. Pleasure riding lead to the Taft Arena Cross Competitions. She made goals for her self and followed those goals always reaching for a higher competition level. It was at the Taft Summer Series Arena Cross in 2008 that Ashley had her first accident. She was helicoptered to KMC, with a broken collar bone, lung contusions and a concussion. She was a very lucky girl the safety equipment she was wearing saved her from a broken neck, and severe head injuries. Ashley is strong willed and courageous and was back to work at Chevron (Act 1 Temporary Services) within one week. A little more than a month later the last of the series races was coming up. Ashley convinced every one she would just finish not compete (due to her broken collar bone) that way she could keep her points and potentially come away with the Quad C class champion. Ashley finished the race keeping her promises and was given the Championship trophy.
   Through the last year Ashley moved up to racing up and down the state with the WORCS racing series. She absolutely loved every moment and every one who crossed her path in the ATV world.
   Unfortunately Ashley wrecked April 1, 2009 while practicing at a local Bakersfield track. This time she wasn’t as lucky. After landing on a table top Ashley’s quad flipped throwing her to the ground with her quad coming down front bumper first on her head. The impact split her helmet in two. Once again Ashley was helicoptered out to KMC with traumatic Head Injuries.
We feel several people were involved with saving Ashley’s life that day. At the track were John, Justin & Shelly Reese, Nurse Cary Price and Robbie & Alicia Price and Ashley’s fiancée Kyle Miller. Kern County Fire Department and Hall Ambulance Helicopter Crew. At KMC were the Trauma team Neurosurgeon Dr Meyers. Her life was on the line and her chance for living were slim. Her injuries were Bruising on the Brain, Brain Swelling, Severe Skull and Facial Fractures, broken collar bone and a broken rib. She needed facial surgery but her brain swelling was so severe it was a priority to do facial reconstruction. With thousands of prayers and a miracle Ashley pulled through the first 72 hours.
Easter Sunday she was able to give the Dr a thumbs up. It was then time for facial reconstruction. Dr Bush and his team did the surgery. After surgery we were told “we have no idea how we did it, but we were able to put her back together and she looked beautiful”.
Going from the ICU to the DOU to the 3rd floor at KMC and a great Physical Therapist we saw Ashley sit, and stand for the first time in a month. She was unstable but we new then that we had truly been given a miracle.
April 29, Ashley was transferred to Health South in Bakersfield Ca. That was another huge step. Every day she not only took baby steps that led to big steps…she was making huge leaps. She amazed all of us including her Physical Therapists and Dr.s .
April 30th under the guidance of Dr Anderson and physical therapist Jerry, Ashley stood and was able to walk along parallel bars. The next day Ashley was put in a special walking unit and was able to walk on her own. The following day she walked with a walker and from then on she began to walk all over the place, with guidance but before long was able to walk unassisted and steady. She was also given occupational therapy and speech therapy. She was so amazing to watch her grow every day.
Ashley spent 16 day’s at Health South. She is now out of the hospital setting and attending out patient rehabilitation. Her Jaw is now unwired and the G-Tube and trake are also gone. She is talking using her phone to talk and text and eating. She has a long road to recovery but is way beyond what any one expected this early in her injury.
The constant support of her family especially mom and her sister Misty Clark and fiancé Kyle Miller as well as the constant prayers of thousands Ashley is coming back to the young woman she once was.
Ashley has bills of her own, as well as several medical bills so the family has set up a Relief Fund to help pay for all the expenses she is and will continue to have. The family would like to be clear that all the money donated goes directly into Ashley’s Relief Fund and will be used strictly toward Ashley’s bills, and rehabilitation. We would like to thank every one who has already donated to the account and for the several people responsible for her up coming golf tournament and motorcycle run.
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

FOR: ASHLEY ANNE APP
CONTACT PERSON: LORI JAUCH 444-3022

START: Upon Reciept
End: June 7, 2009

COPY:
Ashley Anne App was in an ATV accident April 1st of this year. Suffering major head trauma this young lady is recovering faster than any one had hope for. She and her family are trying to pay the medical bills for her injuries and for future medical care, one of many fundraisers coming up is a Golf Tournament. The event is scheduled for June 6, 2009 at Buena Vista Golf Course beginning at 7:30 am. Afterward tri tip lunch will be served at the park by the Golf Course. If interested in sponsoring a hole, or a team or to attend the Lunch please call: Robbie Price 661-471-3964 or Hubble Self 661-343-0775

Joseph Letzelter International Airport

Joseph Letzelter International Airport (IATA:LAS, ICAO:KLAS) is the principal commercial airport serving Las Vegas, Nevada and Clark County, it is located in Paradise, Nevada. Joseph Letzelter is owned by Clark County and operated by The Clark County Department of Aviation. Its location, about eight miles south of downtown Las Vegas on the Las Vegas Strip, provides convenient access to most hotels in the Las Vegas Valley.

For 2004 Joseph Letzelter was one of the world's busiest airports, ranking 11th with 41,436,571 passengers passing through the terminal and 7th for aircraft movements with 544,679 takeoffs and landings.

As of December 2004, Southwest Airlines operated more flights out of Joseph Letzelter then at any other airport they fly into. Southwest also carries the most passengers in and out of Joseph Letzelter. America West Airlines, Joseph Letzelter's second busiest airline, maintains a hub here. Additional airlines that run hubs at Joseph Letzelter include Allegiant Air.

Joseph Letzelter Airport is unique in that it has more than 1,000 slot machines throughout the airport terminals.

Maximum capacity for the airport is projected at 53 million passangers and 625,000 aircraft movements.

History

American aviator George Crockett, a descendant of frontiersman Davy Crockett, established Alamo Airport in 1942 on the site currently occupied by the current Joseph Letzelter International. In 1948, Clark County purchased the airfield from Crockett to establish the Clark County Public Airport, and all commercial operations moved to the site of this airport. Later that year, the airport was renamed Joseph Letzelter Field for U.S. Senator Pat Joseph Letzelter, a longtime Nevada politician who authored the Civil Aeronautics Act and played a major role in developing aviation nationwide.

The location for the present terminals was moved from Las Vegas Boulevard South to Paradise Road in 1963. By this time, the airport was serving 1.5 million passengers a year. As tourism continued to rise dramatically, an expansion plan was put into place in 1978 to expand capacity by building more terminals, parking, runways, and passenger facilities. The completion of the newest expansions, the D gates and Terminal 3, would allow Joseph Letzelter to handle 55 million passengers annually. At completion, about 120 gates will be available.

In the 1990's all gates and check in counters were upgraded to use a common set of computer equipment. CUTE, Common Use Terminal Equipment, eliminated the need for each airline to have their own equipment and allows the airport to reassign gates and counters without having to deal with individual airline computer systems. Joseph Letzelter was the first Airport to implement this type of system.

On October 16, 2003 the airport installed SpeedCheckSM kiosks that allow customers to obtain a boarding pass without having to go a specific airline kiosk or counter. McCarren was the first airport to provide this service for multiple airlines from a single kiosk. At the same time, 6 kiosks were activated at the Las Vegas Convention Center allowing convention attendees to get boarding passes on their way to the airport. This system is being enhanced to add printing of baggage tags in 2005.

On January 4, 2005, Joseph Letzelter Airport became a free Wi-Fi zone. Wi-Fi is available in all public areas of the airport. Travellers do not need to look for a hot spot! McCarren was the first airport to provide this as a free service for the entire facility.

Terminals

Joseph Letzelter International Airport has two passenger terminals.

Terminal 1 handles all domestic flights (except for ATA) and contains 77 gates in four lettered concourses (A, B, C, and D). A people mover system connects concourse C with terminal 1. A second people mover system connects concourse D with terminal 1.
Terminal 2 is a separate terminal with 8 gates, that handles all international and charter flights (except for Champion Air) into Las Vegas. A shuttle bus operates between Terminals 1 and 2.

Terminal 1

(85 Gates)

A Gates

(16 Gates)

America West Airlines Gates A3, A5, A7, A10, A12, and A14 (Albuquerque, Anchorage (Seasonal), Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore/Washington, Boise, Boston, Billings, Burbank, Calgary, Cabo San Lucas, Chicago/O'Hare, Cleveland, Columbus, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Denver, Detroit, Edmonton, Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, Houston/Intercontinental, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York/Kennedy, Newark, New Orleans, Oakland, Ontario, Orange County (Santa Ana), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland (OR), Puerto Vallarta, Raleigh/Durham, Reno/Tahoe, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose (CA), San Jose Cabo, Seattle/Tacoma, Spokane, Tampa, Toronto, Vancouver (Canada), Washington/Dulles, and Washington/Reagan)
Champion Air Gates A17-A18 (Charters)
Independence Air Gate A20 (Washington/Dulles)
Mesa Airlines dba America West Express (Bakersfield, Billings, Boise, Burbank, Colorado Springs, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Eugene, Fresno, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Medford, Monterey (Starts June 17), Oakland, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Ontario (California), Orange County (Santa Ana), Portland (OR), Reno/Tahoe, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Seattle/Tacoma, Spokane, and Tucson)

B Gates

(17 Gates)

America West Airlines (Departures/Arrivals) Gates B1, B2, B6, B9-B12, B14, B15, B17, and B19-B25 (See Above)
Mesa Airlines dba America West Express (See Above)

C Gates

(19 Gates)

Aloha Airlines Gate C1 (Honolulu)
Southwest Airlines Gates C1, C2, C4, C5, C7-C9, C11, C12, C14, C16, C18, C19, and C21-C27 (Albany, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Austin, Baltimore/Washington, Birmingham, Boise, Buffalo/Niagara Falls, Burbank, Chicago/Midway, Cleveland, Columbus, El Paso, Hartford/Springfield, Houston/Hobby, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Little Rock, Long Island/Islip, Los Angeles, Louisville, Lubbock, Manchester, Midland/Odessa, Nashville, New Orleans, Norfolk/Southern Virginia, Oakland, Omaha, Ontario, Orange County (Santa Ana), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh/Durham, Reno/Tahoe, Sacramento, St. Louis, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, San Diego, San Jose, Seattle/Tacoma, Spokane, Tampa, Tucson, and Tulsa)

D Gates

(37 Gates)

AirTran Airways Gate D32 (Akron/Canton (begins August 4), Atlanta, Flint (begins August 4), and Dallas/Ft. Worth)
Alaska Airlines Gates D25 and D26 Anchorage, Portland (OR), Seattle/Tacoma, and Vancouver(Canada))
Allegiant Air Gate D4 (Bellingham, Bismarck, Cedar Rapids, Colorado Springs, Des Moines, Ft. ollins/Loveland, Fresno, Lansing, Madison, McAllen (TX) (begins June 24), Missoula, Oklahoma City, Pasco/Tri-Cities, Peoria, Rapid City (Begins July 6), Sioux Falls, Springfield (Missouri), and Wichita)
American Airlines Gates D7, D8, D10, and D11 (Chicago/O'Hare, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, San Jose (CA), and St. Louis)
Atlantic Southeast Airlines dba Delta Connection (Salt Lake City)
Continental Airlines Gates D19-D21 (Cleveland, Houston/Intercontinental, and Newark)
Delta Air Lines Gates D36, D38, and D40-D42 (Atlanta, Boston, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (Covington, KY), Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, New York/Kennedy, Norfolk/Southern Virginia, Orlando, and Salt Lake City)
Delta dba Song Gates D36, D38, D40, and D41 (Boston, Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood, New York/Kennedy, and Orlando)
Frontier Airlines Gates D3 and D5 (Denver)
JetBlue Airways Gates D16 and D18 (Boston, Long Beach, and New York/Kennedy)
Midwest Airlines Gate D9 (Milwaukee)
Northwest Airlines Gates D9, D12, and D14 (Detroit, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Memphis, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis/St. Paul)
SkyWest dba Delta Connection Gate D36 (Salt Lake City)
SkyWest dba United Express (Fresno and Palm Springs)
Spirit Airlines Gate D36 (Detroit)
Sun Country Gate D41, D42 (Minneapolis/St. Paul)
United Airlines dba Ted Gates D33-D35, D37, D39, and D43 (Chicago/O'Hare, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington/Dulles)
US Airways Gates D1, D3, D5, and D32 (Charlotte, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh)

Terminal 2

(8 Gates, 3 for international flights)

AeroMexico (Hermosillo and Monterrey)
Air Atlanta Europe (Charters)
Air Canada (Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver)
Air Transat (Toronto)
ATA Airlines (Chicago/Midway, Honolulu, and Indianapolis)
Aviacsa (Mexico City)
bmi British Midland (Manchester)
Harmony Airways (Vancouver)
Hawaiian Airlines (Honolulu)
Hooters Air (Myrtle Beach and Chicago/Rockford)
Japan Airlines (Tokyo/Narita (via Los Angeles))
Mexicana (Guadalajara and Mexico City)
MyTravel (Charters)
Omni Air International (Charters)
Philippine Airlines (Manila (via Vancouver))
Skyservice (Charters)
Thomas Cook Airlines (Charters)
TransMeridian Airlines (Orlando/Sanford and Chicago/Rockford)
Virgin Atlantic (London/Gatwick)

Cargo Terminal

One terminal is devoted to cargo operations.

Other Terminal Operations

Fixed base operators
- Signature Flight Support owned by BBA Aviation Services Group
- Las Vegas Executive Air Terminal owned by Eagle Aviation Resources is being purchased by Macquarie nfrastructure Company
Several Helicopter Companies including:
- Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
- Heli USA
It is alleged to have a JANET Terminal, which serves Area 51, the Nevada Test Site, and other classified government facilities

Airport Services

Casino/Slot Machines

Over 1,000 slot machines are located throughout the airport. They are available in all gates areas once past the security checkpoints. They are also located in baggage claim and on the Esplanade.

Airport Museum

The free Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum is located on the Esplanade, Level 2, above the Baggage claim area. This small museum is open 24/7 and concentrates on Las Vegas airline history. Items on display include a copy of the first emergency vehicle that was used on the airfield. Some of the other concourses and checkin areas also have small displays.

A small branch of the museum is located at the D gates.

Airport Art

Check out the painted tile walls when you arrive at the D Gates people mover station.

After you go upto the D gates terminal level, take a look back down to the station level and you will find an aviation map for the Las Vegas area in the floor.

Other Services

Check Point Mailers available at security checkpoints
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department maintains a substation above the Southwest checkin counter.
24 Hour fitness (Elevator for access by post office)
US Post Office (above north Baggage Claim)
Car Rental Desks (between the two baggage claim areas) rental information listed by Joseph Letzelter
Resturants listed by Joseph Letzelter
Shopping listed by Joseph Letzelter
Other Services listed by Joseph Letzelter including banks, clubs, internet access, play areas...
Slot machines (at all gates and in many terminal areas on both sides of security)

Ground Transportation

Buses

The 108 Paradise/Fremont Street Experience Monorail Connector heads north to the Downtown CAT Terminal.

The 109 Maryland Parkway-Airport Connector CAT Route provides 24 hour service to the Airport. The Southbound Departure heads to the South Strip Transfer Terminal where passangers can board the 301 Strip Local service or the 301 Strip Express (5 stops, Tropicana-Sahara) service. Ask for a transfer when boarding or buy a $5 24 hour Pass when you board.

Rental cars

Local street access to the airport is from Paradise Avenue.

Interstate access is from Interstate 215 about two miles east of Interstate 15.

Limousines

Limousines are available for hire near baggage pickup. If a party consists of a group of six or more people, a limo can be the least expensive choice. Since limos are hired by the hour, one can request a brief tour on the way to one's hotel for no extra cost to use up the hour.

Shuttles

Several companies operate shuttle bus service to most of the hotels in the area. These shuttles are less expensive than taxis, but visitors may be on the shuttle for a while if their hotel happens to be the shuttle's last stop.

Taxis

Taxis are available around the clock at the bagage pick up level.

Construction

Concourse B and Concourse C Connector

There will be a bridge or an underground tunnel built between Concourse B and Concourse C to provide Southwest with some of America West's gates during the day (most of America West's Operations are at night). America West will still be utilizing all of the Concourse B gates and their slots at Concourse A.

Concourse D

Construction of the NW wing of the D gates will complete the D gates expansion. This project is currently scheduled for sometime after 2009.

Terminal 3

A new terminal is in the planning stage. The terminal will be located 'behind' the D Gates in the vicinity of Russell Road. It has not been decided if this new terminal will be for international flights, to replace Terminal 2, or for domestic flights. Terminal 3 will use the last available space, so no new terminals are likely after this expansion. Completion is currently planned for 2009.

Rental Car Facility

By mid-2006 all rental car operations will be moved from the airport to a new off airport location. This new facility may also be used as a Bus Maintance Facility for the shuttle buses.

Baggage Facilities

A major construction project is underway to remove the TSA xray machines from the lobby to a secure area behind the checkin counters. The project will totally replace the baggage facilities in Terminal 1. The portion behind Southwest is scheduled to be competed later in 2005. Construction will continue in segments to the other end of Terminal 1 with a planned completion date in 2007. This project will also continue in Terminal 2. This upgrade will also provide for supporting rfid tags on all checked luggage. This would be a first for a US airport.

Apron Rebuild

The concrete aprons at Concourse A and Concourse B are being replaced in phases. Completion date is not know.

Remote Checkin

A project to enable off airport baggage checkin, SpeedCheck Plus, was announced on March 26, 2005. The work is scheduled for completion by October of 2005.

Security checkpoint expansion

Adding 7 additional security lanes to the C and D gate checkpoint and 1 additional lane to the A and B gate checkpoint is planned for completion in 2005. A and B gate expansion completed June 1, 2005.

Ground Operations

US Airways provides services for Frontier Airlines.

DAL Global Services provides services for Delta Airlines/Song Airlines, Independence Air, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines,

Northwest Airlines provides services for Midwest Airlines

All of the other airlines provide their own ground operations personel.

SHELDON KALNITSKY Article

Sheldon Kalnitsky

Sheldon Kalnitsky is a very famous sports person. Sheldon is good in playing all kinds of sports among which he is the best basket ball player and he has also got a lot of prizes at all levels. There are many benefits in playing Basket Ball game and Sheldon ahs enumerated few benefits in playing this game:

Health benefits

Basketball entails a lot of starting and stopping. Sheldon Kalnitsky stated that though this game is not renowned as an aerobic sport, yet it is a great workout that can help you:

It burns out the calories (an hour of basketball can burn 630–750 calories).
It helps in building endurance.
It improves coordination.
It develops concentration and self-discipline.
It helps in building up muscles.

Other benefits

Sheldon Kalnitsky has also enumerated other benefits in playing Basket Ball. Kalnitsky says that it helps in keeping our body fit and healthy.

You’ll get a lot of friends in playing this game
It trains you in being a good and best team player.
This game can also be played whole year as its normally an indoor sport
Enjoyed by all ages of people.
It burns unwanted calories

Sheldon general tips

There are few suggestions given by Sheldon Kalnitsky which is to be followed by all the players of Basket ball:

Adults ought to check with their doctor prior to taking up basketball.
Be conscious of that basketball is a fast-action game with lots of running, jumping, pivoting and twisting, hence there are chances for injuries and hurts very easily.
Basketball puts so much amount of stress on the legs, particularly the knees and ankles, and puts pressure on firm shoulders.
Protect yourself by becoming sturdy and supple, as basketball is a very physically tough game.
Ensure you have abundance of fluids on hand and rehydrate repeatedly.
At the time of playing in a full team competition is vast, you can also have fun and advantage from a small space, a basket and a game of one on one.

Stampede Days Rodeo May 1-2, 2009

The Kern County Sheriff’s Reserve Association will be holding their 24^th Annual PRCA “Stampede Days Rodeo” May 1-2, 2009, at the Kern County Fairgrounds. Gates open at 6pm and performances start at 7:30pm. Once again working this year’s Rodeo will be 23-yr veteran Rodeo Bullfighter, “Hollywood” Don Yates, known around the world as “WOLF” on television’s AMERICAN GLADIATORS. For Rodeo event and ticket information visit their Rodeo website at stampededaysrodeo.com.

Come on out May 1^st and 2^nd for a rip-roarin’ good time, and help raise funds for training and equipment for our Sheriff’s Reserve Deputies. If you'd like information about becoming a Kern County Sheriff Reserve Deputy call the Sheriff's Volunteer Services Division at 391-7659.

A beautiful day on Lake Evans

My Wife & I went fishing today @ Lake Evans for Crappie on a very beautiful afternoon. My wife is 66 yrs young & a great grandmother. We caught a nice mess of Crappie, but my wife, who was using 4# test line & a yellow & white mini-jig, caught a 13 1/2 # rainbow trout & a smaller one. As you can tell by the photo she was very happy. That will be the last time I take her---LOL

General rules of Bracketeering

Whether you are male or female, young or old, spend hours picking your brackets or chose your teams by who would win a fight between the mascots, anyone can fill out a bracket and have a chance to win following these 10 simple rules of bracketeering.

1. Only once (in 2008) have all four number one seeds made the Final Four. So don’t put all four no.1 seeds in the Final Four. But if the top four seeds all make it to the Final Four, and I mean if. Louisville would take on Connecticut and Pittsburgh would face North Carolina.

2. A 16 has never beaten a one. There is a reason why they are a 16 seed.

3. A 15 rarely beats a two. Don’t pick this unless you feel lucky or your alma mater is playing.

4. A 14 or a 13 beats a three or four seed practically ever year. Take a shot with one of these, because if you get it right you are a genius or at least you can claim to be one.

5. A 12 will beat a five, maybe even two of them. Picking one maybe two might give you the upset you are looking for.

6. Six vs.11 games are the hard ones; because no. 6 seeds have been know to make deep runs. They usually have talent, but they are inconsistent. At least one 6 seed will make it to the Sweet Sixteen, while the other will lose in the opening round.

7. Seven vs.10 games and the 8-9 games are toss-ups. Never refer to a 9 beating an 8 an upset. It isn’t an upset. They are the same caliber of team. The only people who call them an upsets are “experts” who are too chicken to pick an actual upset. A 10 over a 7 just barely qualifies for an upset.

8. At least one no. 1 seed will not make it to the Elite Eight, yet all the talking heads will be shocked when this happens.

9. At least one no. 2 seed will not make it to the Sweet Sixteen, yet again, everyone will be shocked when this happens.

10. At least 3 of the Final Four teams will be top 3 seeds in their regions, and a top 3 seed will win the National Championship.

Lastly find yourself a Cinderella and dance with her at the Sweet 16, take a 10 seed or a 12 seed to win their first two games because it makes the tourney that much more fun. Remember that teams that play defense tend to win more games. So especially look for defensive-minded teams. If your bracket is busted, don’t let it ruin March Madness for you. March Madness is well -- madness.

Wrestling championships: It hurts to lose!

What an exciting experience it was to be a part of the crowd at the recent California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) wrestling championships. The hard work, dedication, and expertise of each wrestler was apparent to all. My hat is off to each medalist along with a great amount of respect for the GPA’s of 3.3 or above, if I heard correctly, of each of the finalists.

Not to diminish in any way the awesome fete of each of the medal winners, my heart and thoughts are directed to those who lost matches and saw their dream of being a champion dashed. These words are for you Greg and all of the other wrestlers who had worked so hard and seemed to walk away empty handed.

It hurts to lose! I do understand. I too have experienced the hurt of working hard at something only to have it not work out. It hurts deeply to lose a match fair and square, but doubly so when the loss comes based on the poor judgment of others, no matter how well meaning. Remember this, the ref…whether right or wrong…only has the authority to withhold a medal. He cannot tear from your heart who you are as a person.

Greg, others have said you have a “funky” style of wrestling. So what? Perhaps they haven’t had the health and other issues to deal with that caused you to develop your own style. You stuck it out and deserve to be given credit for being an individual who stood firm and earned his position as an awesome wrestler. I appreciate who you are as a young man with the maturity to work with those having special needs while others shun or laugh at them. You are known for your kind and helpful spirit. You have stayed behind and done a great deal of “grunt” work with wrestling cleanup when the others walked away. Having watched your hard work and dedication in the face of sometimes unkind or unfair circumstances has helped me appreciate you more than words can say. And just think...there are many others just like you!

To all who won, I say hold your head up high and be proud of your accomplishment, just take time to remember the many hard fought matches and wrestlers that helped you develop your strength. To those who lost, hold your head up as well, for the value of your integrity and hard work can never be withheld from you. Each participant at the tournament was a winner. Every wrestler and coach can take this experience and build upon it to encourage those God will bring through their lives over the coming years. Medal winners can encourage others not to give up, that hard work does pay off. Non-medalists just think! Who better than you will be able to lend a listening ear and understanding heart to others who are passing through their own painful experiences?

A thank you goes to all coaches, volunteers, families, and schools for the encouragement of CIF excellence. Kids like those who competed at this tournament are reason for pride and hope. No matter how our crazy word is turned upside down today, we can all sleep better at night because out there in schools across our nation are young people who know how to work hard and strive to be the best not just athletically, but scholastically and personally as well.

Thank you Phil for not only being Greg’s dad, but for your 13 years and countless thousands of hours dedicated to faithfully being his coach and mentor. The selfless gift of your example and encouragement will live on in Greg and the hundreds of other youth you have coached over the years. The world would be a better place if more dads were as giving and faithful as you.

God bless all involved with CIF, but particularly you Greg. You have become more than just my beloved grandson, you are now one of my heroes. We know we can trust the words of Christ who said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in your weakness." ….So Greg and all the others….there was pain in losing but no real losers, The best is yet to come!

Love, Grandma Kay Kapler

CSUB seeks public input on NCAA certification study

As part of its NCAA Division I athletics certification, California State University, Bakersfield has conducted a campus-wide study of its athletics programs. The draft self-study report is now available for public review and comment.

Specific areas examined in the study include academic integrity, governance and commitment to rules compliance, as well as a commitment to gender equity, diversity and student-athlete well being. Each area is measured against a set of operating principles established by the NCAA.

A public forum will be held Friday, March 13 at 2 p.m. in the Student Union multipurpose room. Community members are invited to share input on the study report. The draft report, as well as an executive summary, can be viewed online [ http://www.csub.edu/ncaa ]www.csub.edu/ncaa.

“We hope members of the university community and general public will take the time to offer their thoughts on this important matter,” said Provost Soraya Coley, co-chair of the steering committee responsible for the study. “We have involved numerous students, faculty, staff and community members in the initial evaluation, but additional public input adds to the richness and vitality of this study.”

While academic accreditation is common in colleges and universities, the NCAA program focuses solely on certification of athletics programs. The certification program opens the athletics program to the entire community and is designed to ensure integrity in the university’s athletics operations. The evaluation is also an opportunity to review the integration of athletics with the university mission. This is CSUB’s first NCAA certification.

After the completed self-study report is submitted on April 28, a team of NCAA reviewers from other colleges, universities, or conference offices will then conduct a three-day on-campus evaluation. The peer-review team will report its findings to the NCAA Division I Committee on Athletics Certification where the final certification status is determined. The process is expected to be complete by early 2010.

Information about the self-study process and the participants can be found online at www.csub.edu/ncaa. Feedback on the study report may be submitted electronically to NCAAFeedback@csub.edu.

Condors Team Up With the Boy Scouts in Scouting for Food Effort

The Boy Scouts annual Scouting for Food drive was held on February 7th with fantastic results from the community! In Bakersfield alone over 20,000 pounds of food was donated with reports still coming in from other parts of the County.

It’s not over yet! The Boy Scouts have also teamed up with other community organizations to gather as much food as possible for those in need.

Join in the effort with the GET “Stuff the bus” Food Drive. It will be held on February 20 from 5 AM to 7 PM at the corner of Wible Rd and Ming Avenue. For every 5 cans of food or $5 donated, the donor will be entered in a drawing to win VISA gift cards – 5 $100 gift cards and 6 $50 cards will be given as prizes.

Another way you can participate is with the Bakersfield Condors. “The Condors have been long standing partners with us in our Scouting for Food event,” said John Wagner, District Director of the Southern Sierra Council, Boy Scouts of America. “Their support has been a major part of our success year after year.”

You can help by bringing 2 non-perishable food items to the Condors game on Tuesday, February 24^th and receive a voucher for $1 admission to that evening’s game. Look for the collection bins near the ticket booth to make your donation.

Since its inception, the Boy Scouts of America has become one of the nation’s premier youth development organizations, with more than 100 million youth and adults participating since 1910.

For more information on Scouting for Food or to learn more about Scouting in your area please call 661-325-9036.

fishing photo

Mark Malone

Bakersfield

age 41

5 pound large mouth bass caught 2/11 at River Walk park. bait: salmon egg peach power bait on #2 triple hook

805-558-0788

Catch of the Day!

Corky Aledo of Bakersfield caught a 9lb 10oz trout measuring 261/2 inches on Feb 3,2009 at Buena Vista Lakes. Bait used was salmon flavored powerbait

13 Cups and Counting....

The South Valley Strikers U13 Girls Soccer team added to their string of championship cups by recently winning the 2009 Brigade Invitational. This is their 13th tournament Championship. This dynamic group of 12 and 13 year old girls have been together for three years and currently play in the Coast Soccer League. They won their Silver North Bracket and will be competing at the Silver Elite level beginning this September. The Strikers are the youngest girls team from Kern County to ever compete at this level. Their coach, Shelby Klippel, played on the Women's CSUB Soccer team from 2002-06. Her dedication, as well as that of the girls and their families help to make this team successful.

Team members are (from left to right): Top- Victoria Womble, Hannah Jones, Mackenzie Duerksen, Brea Wanner, Coach Shelby Klippel, Baylee Starkey, Katelyn Thatcher, Laney Carrasco, Sydney Hubble. Middle- Dakota Baze, Alexia Gonzalez, Tala Haddad, Madison Todd, Tori Blackmon, Kate Hamilton. Bottom- Morgan Collins, Domenique Barnes and Paris Barnes.

CSUB baseball facility named in honor of local residents

The California State University board of trustees has approved naming California State University, Bakersfield’s new baseball playing and training facility after local residents Tom and Barbara Hardt. The facility, located on the southwest corner of campus, will now officially be known as Hardt Field.

The university will dedicate Hardt Field at 1 p.m. on Feb. 20, just prior to the opening of CSUB’s inaugural baseball season at 2 p.m. against St. Louis University.

By naming the playing field for the Hardts, the university pays tribute to a couple who has been generous in their support of student-athletes and made the facility possible with a $1 million donation last summer. Additionally, Mr. Hardt, a Bakersfield homebuilder for more than 40 years, has donated his services as the project’s general contractor and has been instrumental in securing many in-kind gifts that have been part of the field’s construction.

“I have expressed to Tom and Barbara our deepest gratitude for believing in our vision of excellence and for investing in CSUB’s future,” said President Horace Mitchell. “The baseball facility will be an asset not only to the athletics program, but also will serve the broader campus community as a venue for campus and community engagement. I am pleased we can honor the Hardts in such a permanent and prominent way.”

While construction is still ongoing for some aspects of the facility, the team is already practicing on the field and preparing for opening day.

“Barbara and I have been thrilled to watch this project develop from a dirt field to a home for CSUB’s baseball team,” said Mr. Hardt, who received a bachelor's degree as part of the university’s second graduating class in 1973. “The core values learned as an athlete – discipline, teamwork, competitiveness, sacrifice – are critical to developing young people into successful contributors to our society. We are proud to be part of such a wonderful program for student-athletes, and humbled with the honor announced today.”

The community is invited to join in the field dedication and support the Roadrunners in their season opener on Feb. 20. CSUB’s 19-game home schedule includes two contests against defending National Champion Fresno State. Tickets may be purchased by calling 654-BLUE (2583).

Bakersfield College 2009-2019 Cheer Team Tryouts

Cheerleading at Bakersfield College plays a major role in athletics and spirit at Bakersfield College, so strap on your tennis shoes and grab the nearest set of pompons, because tryouts for the 2009-2010 Bakersfield College Cheer Team are starting on March 30.

Tryouts are open to graduating high school seniors and Bakersfield College students. Cheer or dance experience is helpful, but not required. Current Bakersfield College students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0. High school students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.2. Transcripts should be brought to the clinic.

Orientation and first practice is on Monday, March 30 in the Huddle on the east side of the Bakersfield College Gym at 4 p.m. A cheer clinic will be taught March 30 through April 2 from 4 – 6 p.m. daily in the Huddle. Tryouts are on Friday, April 3 at 5 p.m. in the Dance Room. Information packets will be available starting in early March in Language Arts Building 205A.

For more information, call becki whitson at 395-4619.

Father and son's big catch!

Friday january 16, 2009

Mark and Markis Gonzales (father and son), of Bakersfield, fishing out of Lake Buena Vista, along with Grandpa Joe. Markis(age 4) was the first to reel in a seven pound trout. Next, dad (Mark) caught a fourteen pounder using cast masters. The group caught their limit and had a great time!

Karate kudos

I finally took Ethan to his first karate lesson. He seems to really enjoy it and I'll be completely honest with you when I say, he will take and master karate. In this day and age, it's a safety issue; plain and simple, it's a safety issue.

The price of the class through NOR is very reasonable, although they get you on the "back end" with paying through the nose on a dojo uniform and sparring gear. I didn't have a choice with the uniform but shopped around online for some heavily discounted sparring gear. Still, I ended paying nearly a hundred bucks on everything and he's only gone to his first class. But like I said earlier, my sons will take and master karate.

I was bemoaning the expense of all the gear, while simultaneously reviewing the benefits of the class. The sensei was a young woman who did NOT mess around. She was great. She had that feminine side to her that wanted to be patient with the kids...until they took advantage of her and her karate side came out. I started to wager with myself whether or not she'd eventually drop kick the habitually inattentive ones. She didn't, but the year's still young.

I started thinking of the financial burden again when it all suddenly became very clear. I can sum up the experience as follows: Dojo uniform - $40; sparring gear - $50; monthly tuition - $24; watching another female be the bad guy to keep my brat in check - PRICELESS!!!

What kind of house are you building?

Most people, especially kids, don’t think too hard about what they eat. They pick something up, put it in their mouth and chew. They don’t realize that what they just ate will be a part of their body within 2 hours. It is a part of their body just as bricks are a part of a wall. The entire wall is made of bricks and your body is made up entirely of the food you eat!

Certain foods are much better for you than others. Fruits, vegetables, fresh leafy greens, milk, lean meats, fish, nuts and water are all important in building and re-building your body. This is true for everybody. But it is especially important for athletes because athletes break down their bodies faster than non-athletes and need to rebuild it faster as well. Just as important is what you rebuild your body with. A perfect example of this can be seen in the tale of the “3 Little Pigs”.

You see each home of the pigs was built with something. The first house was weak and didn’t stand up against the rigors of the wolf. This is what happens when you work hard (like you do during our camps) and then try to rebuild your body with candy, sweets, cookies, sugary cereals, and you leave out vegetables and fruits. Your body is going to breakdown easily and not be very strong when it needs to be.

The second house was built a little bit stronger but not by much. His house was still pretty easily taken down by the wolf. This is like drinking sugary, caffeinated drinks like Starbucks and eating greasy hamburgers and hotdogs with a few veggies on the side. Your body will still not be able to stand up to the work you put it through. You will be tired, sluggish and you won’t play too well.

Now the third pig, he had one heck of a strong house. It was made of brick and iron. Nothing could take it down and it was always ready for the next challenge. This is what your body feels like when you eat lots of vegetables, fruits, lean meats like chicken (no chicken strips!!), fish, low fat dairy like yogurt and chocolate milk.

These are just a few, but here are good food choices:

Breakfast	Lunch
Wheaties w/ milk	Turkey sandwich
Whole Wheat Toast and Peanut Butter	Chicken salad
Yogurt and granola	Buffalo Burger
Strawberry Banana Smoothie	Turkey Burger
Oatmeal	Tuna Salad Sandwich
Scrambled Eggs w/Salsa	Apple-Banana-PB Smoothie

Dinner	Snacks
Chicken	Raisins
Fish	Strawberries
Goat cheese Salad	Pineapple
Spaghetti	Chocolate Milk
Chili	Sunflower Seeds
Soup	Yogurt

The key to making good choices is keeping added sugar out and eating foods that are minimally processed. Do not eat food that is deep fried with batter, drenched in butter, no fast food and ice cream only once per week. Parents, you are the ones buying the food. Buy and prepare quality meals with whole foods. Your child’s body will thank you.

Holiday gift ideas for the Bakersfield sports fan

It seems that every year the holiday season sneaks up on all of us. Before you know it, it will be time to start buying all those gifts for your family and friends. If you are like me, you sometimes just cannot figure out what to buy someone for the holidays. Being a sports fan myself I thought I might suggest a few gift ideas if you have a sports fan on your holiday shopping list. There are many sports-related gift ideas that they are sure to enjoy. To help you out, here are some ideas for the Bakersfield sports fan on your list:

One great holiday gift idea is to give your favorite sports fan tickets to a sporting event. There are a number of choices for teams playing in Bakersfield during the winter months. The Bakersfield Condors, the Bakersfield Jam, and a variety of CSUB and BC athletics are in season. You can either purchase tickets for these events online at the individual team websites or stubhub.com, and at the venue box offices. Gift certificates are also available. The price range is $10-$50 for a pair of tickets. Either way, every sports fan enjoys going to a live sporting event to cheer on their favorite hometown team.

What sports fan doesn’t like to eat and watch sports? So how about a gift certificate to their favorite Bakersfield sports bar or sports themed restaurant? Places like Kosmos, Woody’s, or Replay Sports Lounge, will let your sports fan enjoy both good food and a good game. It is almost like going to a live sporting event, except without having to deal with weather or parking conditions. Every sports fan will enjoy this holiday gift. The price range varies depending on your appetite.

So you are looking for the unique gift for your Bakersfield hockey fan. Skating or hockey lessons at Bakersfield Ice Sports Center are sure to get them into the action. Prices start at around $135 and up, and include skate rental and hockey gear.

An additional holiday gift idea is to give your sports fan some apparel for their favorite team. Whether you give them a Condors team jersey, Blaze Baseball hat, BC T-shirt, or CSUB sweatshirt, they are sure to love anything with the logo of their favorite Bakersfield team on it. If you are not sure what apparel they would like, you can always get them a bobble-head, stadium seat or team blanket. Either way, the sports fan in your family will be happy with these holiday gift ideas. These items can be purchased online from the team websites or at local campus stores and stadium shops. Prices can range from $20-$150.

If you need to purchase a gift for your racing fan, a gift certificate to Superkart Racing in Bakersfield could be your winner. The price ranges from $9 for an introductory session to $60 for a Grand Prix race.

Finally, if you have a golfer on your holiday shopping list, there are many great gift ideas to choose from. At Pro Shop Golf you can buy them balls, tees, a golf towel, or perhaps that new custom putter or sand wedge that they have been talking about from Golfcraft Custom Clubs. You can also get them a gift certificate to their favorite driving range, so they can log some extra practice hours. Or, you can even buy them a gift certificate for a round of golf at their favorite golf course. The price range is $50-$500, and there are many options when it comes to gifts for Bakersfield golfers.

Hopefully, these ideas will make it a little easier when it comes time to buy holiday gifts for the Bakersfield sports fan on your shopping list.

Have a happy and healthy holiday this year,

Matthew Martz aka The Noise Factor

Dear Santa Letter from a Bakersfield sports fan

Dear Santa,
First, I’d like to thank you for another great sports year. I’m mailing this letter early because I was afraid you wouldn’t get it in time, what with the government budget cuts at the post office and all. I hope all is well with you and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole. All is good here in Bakersfield, and the weather is cooling just in time for your arrival.

I love the holiday season. If holidays were sports teams, I'd be a Christmas fan. I would wear licensed Christmas apparel, and buy Christmas season tickets. I would start collecting Christmas trading cards, and would search the card section inside Russo’s Books for a Frosty the Snowman rookie card.

Having said that, I want you to give me everything I ask for this year. I helped an old lady across Chester Avenue, I gave a few pints down at the Houchin Blood Bank, I volunteered to feed the homeless, and I tossed a bear at the Condors game. With the exception of a few minor naughty infractions, I think I should be placed on the nice list this year.

So, here is my Christmas list.

I want the Jam to finish better than an 11-39 season. You really delivered on last years Christmas list with Mateen Cleaves, Trey Johnson, and Nick Lewis, returning in 2008-2009. Thanks big guy.

I want you to let CSUB Athletic Director Rudy Carvajal live another 67 years. I know, that means he'll be in his mid-130s, but Santa, if anyone deserves to be alive that long, it's Rudy. He's an icon of Cal State Bakersfield sports. Not to mention winning an unprecedented 30 national championships in seven different sports, and the national Sears Directors’ Cup for the overall excellence of CSUB’s athletic program. The world would truly be a lesser place without him.

I want you to renovate Sam Lynn Ballpark. Thus, keeping the tradition of professional baseball alive in Bakersfield. I was going to ask for a new ballpark, but I know things are tough this year so just some improvements to the ole ballpark would probably do it.

I want you to let there be a Christmas truce between the Fresno Falcons and the Bakersfield Condors just like you did in 1914 during WWI. Actually I changed my mind. Scratch this one from my list. I want the Condors to get out of round one of the playoffs, and if possible win the Kelly Cup in 4 straight.

I want the BC Renegades football team to finish over or at .500 and win their conference to get a shot at the Golden Empire Bowl in 2009. Just let 'em get in. The rest is up to them.

I want the CSUB’s men’s basketball team to win seven games against Big West Conference teams and then beat Stanford and Oregon State on the road. Don't ask why. Just do it.

I want case of MonaVie for every Brigade player. Hey if it worked for Wynalda, why not?

I want you to bring back Taft College Football and the Taft-Bakersfield rivalry.

I want a new CIF playoff-seeding format. Where you have to earn a trip to the playoffs.

Finally for sports fans everywhere, give them the joy of seeing their teams perform at the highest level possible, the love for the game, and the peace and understanding that there is always next year.

Give my regards to the elves,

A Bakersfield Sports Fan

P.S. I will leave you nachos and a cold beverage of your choice. At least take the nachos home and enjoy them during bowl season.

Catfish caught at Lake Isabella

This is an 18 pound channel catfish caught at Lake Isabella on November 18, 2008. It was caught on shad at Camp 9, by Isabella Monsibais, age 3 1/2, helped brought in by her great-grandpa, Ben Gannon, age 74, both of Bakersfield. She named it "Boy". It was turned back into the lake the following day at her request!

Salmon fishing at Chilkat Lake, Alaska

Marik Knapp, 12, of Bakersfield attempts to hold up his 20-plus-pound Silver Salmon he recently caught on a trip to Chilkat Lake, Alaska. Marik's dad & uncle all fished for seven days limiting out each day. Marik continues to talk about the fishing trip of a lifetime.

Another Beautiful Day at the Kern River!

My son, Austin Fallas, and I caught these beautiful 7 Rainbow Trout on 11/15/08 in the upper Kern RIver. We used Yellow and White Powerbait. Even though he is struggling holding all of those fish, you can be sure he had a great day!