Kern County Times

This week in Kern County history.

Born May 27, 1939: Frank Bidart, Pulitzer-winning poet, Bakersfield native.

Born on May 27, 1939, Frank Bidart, a California native, gained prominence as a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet. His journey unfolded through academia, from studying at the University of California at Riverside to Harvard, where he befriended literary figures like Robert Lowell and Elizabeth Bishop. Bidart, an English professor at Wellesley College since 1972, delved into confessional poetry, addressing themes like eating disorders in works such as "Ellen West" and "Herbert White." Notable for co-editing Robert Lowell's Collected Poems, Bidart's accolades include the 2007 Bollingen Prize and the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. His impact extends beyond words, collaborating with actor-poet James Franco on the film "Herbert White" and receiving the Griffin Poetry Prize Lifetime Recognition Award in 2017.

Born in May 28, 1962 - Brandon Edwin Cruz, Bakersfield actor, musician

Born on May 28, 1962, in Bakersfield, California, Brandon Edwin Cruz is an American actor, musician, editor, and consultant. Known for portraying Eddie Corbett on "The Courtship of Eddie's Father," Cruz began his career at age five. His journey extended to guest appearances in various TV shows and a role in "The Bad News Bears." Transitioning to punk rock in the late 1970s, he performed with Dr. Know and later the Dead Kennedys. Beyond the spotlight, Cruz delved into editing, contributing to South Park and more. Awarded the Young Artist Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement, his personal life involves a marriage, divorce, and parenting. Now a consultant, Cruz embraces a Buddhist practice, with a forthcoming book capturing his life.