McCarthy: Congress needs to wake up and curtail spending

  Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) gives us his weekly update from Capitol Hill. Disagree with him? Post a blog comment. 
  "This is my first 'Beene Blog' for 2010, and I would first like to thank Richard for allowing me to regularly keep you updated with what's happening in Congress through weekly updates over the past year. Second, I hope everyone had a good Christmas break and a happy New Year.

 "Congress comes back into session next week and our highest priority should be jobs, especially after Washington’s disconnect with creating jobs over the past year. While unemployment is at a record high in states like ours and at a double-digit rate nationally, Congress has continued to put forward big spending measures that drive up the debt and kill jobs. Congress needs to wake up.  Americans don't want partisan solutions - we want common-sense workable solutions that will help produce a job-creating environment.That is why my colleagues and I are advocating a "no cost jobs plan" that removes burdensome and credit-killing regulations, eliminates upcoming tax increases, increases exports by approving pending free trade agreements, freezes out-of-control Washington spending, and reforms financial regulations to get credit flowing, all without increasing Washington spending and debt.

 "This week, I traveled throughout our communities. It was nice to see and hear from many of you.

 "On Tuesday, I joined local officials from around the county and unveiled H.R. 4352, a bill that I authored that will help level the playing field for small communities that compete with larger cities for critical wastewater infrastructure funds. This common sense reform would help address the systemic funding problem that shortchanges many small communities from obtaining financing for wastewater infrastructure facilities so they can comply with various state and Federal mandates.

 "On Wednesday, I met with the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary (a lively group for early in the morning) and discussed the economic challenges facing our nation. Following my meeting with the Rotary, I met with local small business owners, and toured the M.D. Manufacturing plant in Bakersfield. After meeting with our local businesses, it could not be clearer that Congress needs to stop new credit-killing regulations and start working to provide a vibrant market where small businesses can prosper.

 "As Congress reconvenes next week, there will once again be a lot of attention towards health care reform. As you know, the Senate passed their version of the government takeover just before Christmas through a shady practice of giveaways and backroom deals. Continuing Chicago-style politics, instead of the usual open and transparent conference committee process to reconcile differences, Democratic Congressional leaders and the President have all chosen to make their final changes behind closed doors. During his campaign, then-Senator Obama promised eight times that all negotiations on health care would be televised live and recently C-SPAN even formally asked Congressional leaders to keep the President’s promise; unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi laughed off this idea and has continued to move forward with her costly and secretive agenda. Americans continue to express opposition to legislation that will raise health care costs, raise taxes, and increase federal spending. Health care reform will affect one-sixth of our nation’s economy, and every American deserves to know what direction their representatives are going to take when it comes to future reform. That is why I have joined my colleagues in pressing for more transparency and will continue the fight to prevent this bad health care bill from becoming law.

 "I hope you all have a good week."

Bolthouse Properties makes big donation to Houchin Blood Bank, and Bako Buckeyes Unite

 *  ... GOOD NEWS FOR HOUCHIN: Houchin Blood Bank had some big news Thursday when it announced that Bolthouse Properties was donating five acres of vacant land for a new blood facility off Buena Vista Road. This is just the latest example of the generosity of the Bolthouse family, which has helped fund many causes through the years. Houchin CEO Greg Gallion told me he was overwhelmed by the donation, which will allow the blood bank to build a completely new and expanded facility across from St. John's Lutheran Church. Gallion sees that area of the Southwest as the epicenter of our city's growth, and a prime location for a new blood facility. Bolthouse Properties is no longer affiliated with Bolthouse Farms, the huge carrot producer, instead holding and developing commercial and agricultural properties located mainly in Southern California. Bakersfield attorney Tony Leggio is president of  Bolthouse Properties and said the donation was consistent with "the Bolthouse Family legacy in giving back to the community."

 * ... BAKO BUCKEYES UNITE: I received a strong response from an earlier post wondering how many Ohio State Buckeye alumni or fans live here locally. Reader Sunny Kapoor had emailed me to get in a dig at all those Oregon fans after the Ducks lost in the Rose Bowl. A sampling of the responses:

 - Louis Sun, wastewater superintendent for the city of Bakersfield, graduated from Ohio State in 1997 and said he too "bleeds scarlet and gray." He was at the Rose Bowl game said his expectations for the Buckeyes next year are "sky high."
 - Dianne Hoover, director of our city recreation and parks department, told me that she grew up in central Ohio and though she didn't attend Ohio State, is a fan by birthright.

 "Most of my family still lives in Ohio so I return for holidays and get the football fever all over again. My brother has an entire room dedicated to Ohio State football and yes, he did graduate from there. I bring 'buckeyes' to share with co-workers after a big win, or sometimes before one. A  real buckeye comes from the nut of the buckeye tree, which can't be eaten by humans since it is poison to us when consumed, but not to touch. ... The buckeyes, the tree's way of reproducing itself, have a thorny outer shell but when they fall off the tree, the shell splits open and the remaining nut looks like the eye of a buck; hence the buckeye."

  - Bill Allison, corporate sales manager for the Bakersfield Condors, chimed in that he grew up just south of Dayton, Ohio, in Centerville, the home of former Buckeyes and current NFL players Mike Nugent and A.J. Hawk. "I wear my scarlet and gray proudly in the Condors office and can't wait for next season. Go Bucks!"
 - And finally there is Frank Colatruglio, vice president of UBS Financial Services in Bakersfield, who grew up in Tiffin, Ohio, attended Bowling Green State University for three years before transferring to Cal State Bakersfield and falling in love with our community. He's been here 30 years but still roots for the Buckeyes. "Growing up in Ohio where it is like Iceland this time of year, it always seemed the Rose Bowl was playing in some faraway land of perpetual sunshine and 72-degree temperatures." 

 * ... SERVICES FOR CLAUDE FIDDLER: The funeral service for longtime Chevron oilman Claude Fiddler has been set for Thursday, January 28 at 2 p.m. at Greenlawn Mortuary and Cemetery. Expect a huge crowd as the community expresses its respect for both Claude, who died last week at 77, and his late wife Shirley Ann, who died just about a month ago.

 * ... DANNY MAITIA'S FAREWELL: Bakersfield always reserves a special send-off for its most beloved citizens, which explains why the service the Danny Maitia came as close as we have here to a state funeral. Danny was the former co-owner and head bartender of the popular Woolgrower's Basque restaurant, founded by his mother, Mayie Maitia.  He died of brain cancer after a two-year battle. He was 55. The service, held at St. Francis Church and officiated by Monsignor Craig Harrison, drew a standing room only crowd. The wake was held at the Basque Club, catered by Luigis Restaurant and Delicatessen and again drew an overflow crowd. Farewell Danny.

Meet Chloe Walker Kiser

There is absolutely no reason for this post other than to show off Chloe, the sweet yellow lab puppy owned by Tracy Walker Kiser and Brian Kiser. These pictures were taken at H. Walker's Men Clothing - owned by Tracy - in downtown Bakersfield. Who doesn't love a puppy picture?

Is Fessler a replacement for Carvajal? And an Ohio State Buckeye seeks same in Bako

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* ... RAINING DOGS AND CATS: I had a chance to catch up with the folks over at the local SPCA on Gibson Street the other day when I was dropping off some books, left over by two daughters who have since moved out of town via college and both unlikely to return. The books will be sold during the SPCA's annual late March-early April book sale to raise money. Local spokesman Chuck Nordstrom says donations have remained steady but  the facility is overwhelmed with owner relinquished animals being dropped off by folks who have lost their jobs, their homes or are moving out of town. The facility is now "at capacity," meaning it has more than 300 dogs and cats. The SPCA will only take unwanted pets when  it has room. In the meantime, it always has a need for old sheets and towels for the strays, so open your hearts (and your pocketbooks) to this local worthy cause.

 * ... LONELY  BUCKEYE SEEKS SAME: Received a humorous email from Sunny Kapoor, finance manager of the West Kern Water District, who noted that he was a "Buckeye transplant" from Ohio and had the chance to take in the Rose Bowl game against Oregon (sorry Ducks, Ohio State was impressive in this one). Said Kapoor: "Sitting in the Ohio State section brought back a ton of memories of watching games at the ole 'Horseshoe' and listening to the 'Best Damn Band in the Land.' I am aware of a lot of Oregon Duck alumni in Bako, but I wonder how many Buckeyes live here?" With apologies to the Ducks and the PAC-10, any Buckeyes out there?


 * ... BAKO BITS: I spotted cancer survivor Wendy Wayne out for a morning run near Jastro Park the other day. She was bundled up, had an impressive gait and looked great. What a difference a few months make. Just a short time ago she was down in Los Angeles for some very tough treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and now she's back running. Great to have you back, Wendy. We're also waiting word on the funeral service for Claude Fiddler, the 77-year-old local oil engineer who died last week, just two weeks after his wife Shirley Ann passed away. This will be a standing-room only service as the community pays last respects to this remarkable man. More on this as it develops.

 * ... THE BUZZ: The real story behind the departure of Roger Fessler from general manager of American General Media to Cal State Bakersfield is how soon Athletic Director Rudy Carvajal will retire. You have to think Fessler would be the likely candidate to succeed Carvajal, who has served in the post since 1972 and should be nearing retirement. No one is talking but keep your eye on this one. Fessler's move was the latest to rock the local radio business, which has been in a funk during this recession. Just a few weeks ago Mike Allen, who worked at the local Spanish radio group for more than 30 years, left the company and is currently out of work. I'm not sure there is a connection here -  the Fessler move was a personal decision to follow his passion - but it represents a huge change on the local radio scene. Rogers Brandon , president of the AGM Group, indicated Fessler would not be replaced and he would be picking up some of his duties, at least temporarily. And I don't think we've heard the last of Mike Allen.

Local oil engineer Claude Fiddler dies, two weeks after his wife passes away

* ... RIP CLAUDE FIDDLER: Two weeks ago I reported that Shirley Ann Fiddler, a longtime Bakersfield resident, had died after a lengthy illness. And now I learn that husband Claude Fiddler passed away late  last week. Claude was a retired Chevron oil manager and he and his wife spent a career in some of the most exotic locales (Hong Kong, Madagascar, Paris and Taft among other places) but they loved Bakersfield and called it home. (read the previous post on Shirley Ann here) I was not aware Claude had any health problems; in fact he was the picture of a robust soul: striking silver hair combed back, thin waist, firm  handshake. It's always curious and odd to me how long-time married couples will often die within weeks of each other, and this was one couple who shared a long and close marriage. Claude served as president of the downtown Rotary Club and was a long time board member at the Golden Empire Gleaners. According to a story in Inside CSUB, a publication of  Cal State Bakersfield, the Fiddlers established two scholarships at the university, both fully endowed to the tune of $100,000. They have two children, Linda and David, both of whom earned master's degrees from CSUB. (photo courtesy of CSUB)

 * ... ETCHEVERRY OFF TO AFRICA: I also learned the other day that Jeffrey Etcheverry was headed off to South Africa to inspect some grape packaging equipment. Jeff works for David Sabovich, president of Fresh Look Brokers, a company that handles some of the Central Valley's table grape brokerage and packaging. Apparently the new equipment in South Africa shows great promise in making the process more efficient.


 * ... KUDOS FOR THE MUSEUM: Local community activist Sheryl Barbich shared some accolades that came to the Bakersfield Museum of  Art concerning its recent show featuring the work of artist James McMillan. Apparently the New York attorney who loaned the art, Patrick Bradford, was so impressed with the show that he donated $2,500 to the museum. Bradford's note: 

 "You and your colleagues have a real national treasure in the Bakersfield museum. Over the past decade I have served on many, many non-profit boards and I must say that the enthusiasm from your museum's patrons and supports was inspiring. Again, thank you for presenting Mr. McMillan's work in such a highly professional manner."

 McMillan's work was part of the Harlem Renaissance show and he also has come art in the current exhibit.  

 * ... THE BUZZ: It looks like the plaintiffs law firm of Chain, Cohn and Stiles has stolen the marketing director away from the Kern Schools Federal Credit Union. The firm convinced Marlene Morales to give up nine years at the credit union to run the marketing program for the law firm. Morales also served as marketing manager for San Joaquin Valley College. She's a native of Bakersfield, a Foothill High grad, and went on to Bakersfield College and Cal State Bakersfield where she earned her bachelor's in English/Communication.

Two local kids make an investment in Bako's emerging downtown arts district, and Macey Kibbee plans a homecoming

 * ... YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS: The long-term success of any city depends on young entrepreneurs who bring their energy and creativity to the local business scene, often seeing opportunity in midtown areas where others see capital risk. That's why it was so nice to hear from Yvonne Cavanagh, who along with Vikki Cruz owns and runs The Surface Gallery art studio at 1703 20th Street. The Surface Gallery is part of the downtown renaissance and emerging "art district" surrounding the historic Fox Theater. Yvonne told me Surface Gallery will feature photos of the historic Padre Hotel taken by Felix Adamo at the First Friday celebrations set for Feb. 5. Adamo is a longtime Californian photographer who has documented our community in stunning artwork for years. The Adamo show will coincide with the reopening of the old Padre Hotel, at least the new restaurants and bars. I asked Yvonne to tell me something about herself. In her words:

 "I graduated from Bakersfield High in 1997 (where I have now taught for 7 years)! I never thought I would teach at the very high school I attended. I then when to BC for two years and then off to San Francisco State graduating in 2002. I returned and earned my credential and then my MA in Education from La Verne in 2009.  My business partner Vikki Cruz went to Garces then BC then graduated from Berkeley in 2002.  Even though we have a lot in common including our close birthdays (mine is Dec. 25th and hers Dec. 23rd), we didn't meet until 2008 when we opened Surface Gallery. We wanted to be a part of the Arts District and thought of no better spot to open Surface than downtown. "

Wish these young entrepreneurs well in 2010. (photo is of Vikki Cruz on left and Yvonne Cavanagh on right, courtesy of Yvonne's Facebook page)

 * ... HE SWORE HE'D NEVER RETURN: Joel Young, who wrote me earlier how Bakersfield can grow on you like an ugly dog, shared his own story on his circuitous route home. Said Joel:
"I came to Bako in 1976 at the age of five. Left to go to school at Washington State University in 1993.  My future wife, born and raised in Bako, followed me to WSU in 1994. We moved to LA after school in 1998.  Moved back to Bako in 2002 to raise our family. We swore that we would never come back, yet here we are.  Despite the poor air quality and sweltering summers, it is a great place to raise a family."

 * ...  MACEY HOMEWARD BOUND: I was happy to hear that Macey Kibbee, the college sophomore at Long Beach State who was critically injured in a car-pedestrian accident earlier this month, will be heading home in a week or so. I have been following the 19-year-old's amazing recovery from traumatic brain injuries on the family blog (read the latest post here). Macey was hit by a car while jogging in Long Beach and has been at Long Beach Memorial ever since. When she comes home, she'll face a long rehabilitation at the Centre for Neuro Skills in Bakersfield, which has mended many of our young people over the years. Here's to a fast recovery and a wonderful 2010 for this former Stockdale High School Mustang.

 * ... HAPPY NEW YEAR: I view 2009 a bit like the uninvited guests who came for a weekend and stayed a month. By the time they leave, you've grown so weary you never want to see them again. Besides the dismal economy - and it will eventually recover, if not this year then next - I know far too many people who have encountered personal crises of health, family, relationships or employment. So let's all take a deep breath and take a moment to appreciate all the blessings we do have. My warmest wishes to everyone for a prosperous 2010, and let's never lose sight of what is really important and where we all derive our strength and purpose. Onward.

Padre Hotel restaurants will open in January and some tips for staying off the roads on New Year's Eve

 * ... MORE ON THE PADRE: I ran into Steve Uricchio this week and got a run-down on the plans to reopen the old Padre Hotel downtown. Construction delays prevented the much anticipated New Year's celebration, but Steve now says there will be a "soft opening" on Wednesday, Jan. 20. Steve is the hotel's food and beverage director and says there will be three restaurants and two bars, including a bar on the second floor which will also house a banquet facility. The ground floor facilities include a casual dining restaurant and a more formal restaurant along with two bars. He promises the hotel will be "stunning" and says the new executive chef, Darrell Jensen, has a proven track record in the Colorado mountain resort communities. There will be ample parking with the Padre striking a deal with the city for using the garage next door, plus there will be valet parking. The hotel rooms, according to Steve, will not open until February, a bit later than the bars and restaurants. Meanwhile the old Padre is getting some new awnings as workers rush to meet the new deadline. Stay tuned.

 * .. HOME DEFAULTS: While we are looking for good news, I heard that the Office of Thrift Supervision reported that second quarter "re-default" rate on modified mortgages - that means at least 60 days delinquent and three months past restructuring - fell from 30 percent to 19 percent. Good news? Let's hope so. The past year has been a nightmare in the local real estate market, with the lion's share of sales (70-plus percent) coming  in properties in some form of foreclosure. Let's all hope for a better 2010.

 * ... BAKO OR BAKERSFIELD? Local reader Stephen Montgomery wrote me about his friend who now lives in Fresno. "He regularly calls Bakersfield 'Backwardsfield,' a term that makes me grit my teeth. While I often call it Bako, as a member of the city's Keep Bakersfield Beautiful and active in pubic issues usually related to urban planning, I'm more interested in making Bakersfield a better place to live rather than dismiss it for its faults. Needless to say I took pleasure in referring to Fresno as 'Frezburg.' John didn't comment but if I think of something better he'll hear it."

 * ... THE BUZZ: With New Year's eve approaching, we all need to be diligent while driving, particularly if we have had anything to drink. If you are out and want to be safe, keep in mind a company called Designated Driver of Bakersfield Inc. that offers a terrific new service locally. Give them a call and they will not only pick you up and take you home, but also have someone drive your car as well. The base costs start at $45 but the company also offers "memberships" in which you get some rides free and others at discounted prices. Check out the company website here. It's worth considering.

JP Morgan's takover of Washington Mutual. What does this tell us about other bank takeovers

 A friend sent me a link to an amazing insider's story from the Puget Sound Business Journal of how JPMorgan Chase took over the failing Washington Mutual financial empire. A key part of the story: apparently JPMorgan executives had insider knowledge about a liquidity run on the bank, allowing them to buy WaMu for pennies on the dollar. (read the entire post here) If this is true, it makes once wonder about the deals federal and state regulators are cutting with the institutions taking over the hundreds of banks that have failed this year. It's worth the read.