Eye Street Entertainment / 3-29-12

16

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail jself@bakersfield.com

Index Jerry’s Pizza and Pub 20th anniversary.. 18 Atlanta Rhythm Section .......................... 19 Arts Alive.................................................. 20 All Breed Dog Shows ................................ 21 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 22 National Poetry Month ............................ 23 Bakersfield film premiere ...................... 26 Calendar .............................................. 28-29

Anglers hooked on thrills Trout derby could put serious money in some lucky pockets

BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

T

here’s something lurking deep beneath the otherwise placid waters of Lake Isabella. It’s been hunted by thousands, yet it continually evades capture.

Don’t worry: It’s not Nessy or Jaws or anything like that. It’s simply one particularly valuable rainbow trout.

And for three days during the 23rd annual Lake Isabella Fishing Derby, that one trout could win its captor up to $40,000.

Though none of the 6,000-plus people who vied for the bigmoney fish last year managed to catch it, the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the derby, assures anglers there’s nothing fishy going on. According to Rex Emerson, communications director for the chamber, the organization does everything in its power to help ensure ambitious anglers traveling from across the country and throughout California have the opportunity to hook some prizes.

“The fish are actually raised on the lake, and we have hundreds of volunteers going out there to feed them three times a day,” said Emerson. “We stop feeding them approximately five or six days before the start of the derby, so that gives the fishermen a better chance to catch the fish. But, sometimes the big-money fish are caught, and sometimes they aren’t. That’s just how it goes.”

Even if the $20,000 fish isn’t caught (the trout doubles in value if caught by someone wearing the official 2012 Lake Isabella Fishing Derby T-shirt), there will be plenty of other prize-winning fish in the lake.

In fact, the derby, hailed as the “world’s largest amateur trout fishing derby,” boasts more than $250,000 in potential prize money. And thanks to the recent sponsorships of two national bait and tackle suppliers, Berkley and Shakespeare, each individually tagged trout is worth more than ever.

“In previous years,” said Emerson, “the lowest prize you could win was $20. But this year, the

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Tents, trailers and motorhomes were seen around the lake as fishermen threw their lines into the cool waters during the annual threeday Lake Isabella Fishing Derby in 2011. This year’s event begins Saturday.

23rd Lake Isabella Fishing Derby When: Saturday, Sunday and Monday Where: Lake Isabella Cost: $20 for individual registration; $45 for family (includes two adults, and three children 15 and under) Information: 866-578-4386; 760-379-5236 or isabellafishingderby.com Registration applications can be turned in personally at the Kern River Valley Chamber, or completed online at isabellafishingderby.com

lowest value fish will be tagged at $50. And the majority of the fish will be worth either $50 to $100.”

There will be 1,000 tagged fish, one worth the $20,000 prize, 10 worth $10,000, and all the rest ranging in value from $50 to $1,000. There’s also the added thrill of not knowing exactly how

much money you’ve won once you’ve caught one of those tagged fish.

Which is all part of the fun, according to Lake Isabella native Brett Ege, a 20-year derby veteran.

“When you pick up your registration at derby headquarters on Friday, they give you a sheet listing all of the tag numbers and their values,” he said. “But when you get a bite, all you can see is that tag, and it’s just really exciting to know that you could potentially have a lot of money at the end of your pole.”

No stranger to reeling in a winning fish, Ege casts his line into the lake sometimes as frequently as seven days a week. Last year, he returned from his weeklong fishing vacation with a respectable $500 in his pocket.

And Ege witnessed his stepfather, Larry Loudermilk, hook a top-prize $10,000 fish in 2010, one of six caught that year.

“That was a crazy experience,” he said. “When he caught the

“... when you get a bite, all you can see is that tag, and it’s just really exciting to know that you could potentially have a lot of money at the end of your pole.”

— Brett Ege, a 20-year veteran of the Lake Isabella Fishing Derby

fish, we didn’t even see the tag at first. And we didn’t know how much the fish was worth until he went to derby headquarters and opened up the envelope. He about passed out when he saw all those zeroes.”

While all the prize money functions as a decent lure for the fishermen and women out there, some might say the real value of the tournament lies in the late-

winter boost it provides to Lake Isabella’s economy.

“From a business standpoint,” Emerson said, “this event is huge.

Because it doesn’t just effect one particular market. Whether people are in the food industry or the lodging industry — whatever it is they have — it’s just a really big deal. What the derby does, it gives the whole community a financial shot in the arm that gets them through to Memorial Day and on to the rest of the summer.”

While Ege agrees the increased revenue for his hometown is nice, the real benefit for him is the time he gets to spend around the campfire with his family.

“The best part for me is watching my kids reel the fish in,” he said. “I have a 2-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl, and the whole experience is just great. This is my only one week vacation that I take from work all year, and from the campfires, to the S’mores, to the games —we like to play horseshoes — I look forward to the derby days all year.”

17

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Scott Cox CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Merle, Dwight talk that Sound T

he Bakersfield Sound exhibit, now on display in Nashville, is a sprawling, detailed tribute to the artists who not only helped put Bakersfield on the map, but changed the direction of country music forever.

Though Merle Haggard hasn’t seen it yet, he had plenty to say about Music City’s decision to honor him and his friends when I called to interview him before his two shows at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Friday and Saturday.

During the conversation, Haggard told me about a discussion he’d had with Dwight Yoakam, the exhibit’s narrator, on the humble beginnings of the twangy honky-tonk sound that the world now knows as the Bakersfield Sound. So I called Dwight and got his take on this part of music history.

Here’s most of what I learned from these two industry giants.

First off, what was the thing that really initiated the formation of the Bakersfield Sound?

Haggard: I imagine that it had a lot to do with what we were all playing in the beer joints at the time. A lot of us didn’t much care for the direction that country music was taking, so we just played what we had in our hearts, which was more of a rowdy style, more suited to hardworking folks that we all lived around. Oildale was full of people like that, and that’s what we were writing songs about. We weren’t trying to invent anything new; it just worked out that way.

Yoakam: Those songs that Buck and Merle were playing really set the stage for the future of country. When I first started listening to country music, before I ever had the chance to record any of it, I knew that was the sound I was after. For me, it wasn’t the Bakersfield Sound, it was the California sound. I came to California to follow in the footsteps of Emmylou Harris and some of the other artists who were out here at the time, and being such a huge fan of Buck Owens, I just gravitated to him, and naturally to Bakersfield. And once Buck and Merle compiled that amazing body of work, it all boiled down to what was going on in Bakersfield.

So, Merle, have you seen the exhibit yet?

Surely you got some kind of VIP tour before the opening…

Haggard: No, I haven’t

The Bakersfield Sound exhibit What: The County Music Hall of Fame is celebrating the Bakersfield Sound with a huge exhibit in Nashville that will be up through Dec. 31, 2013.

Win a trip: The Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau will fly one lucky winner to Music City to see the exhibit and attend Merle Haggard’s concert at the Ryman Auditorium on April 11. Go to visitmusiccity.com to enter.

Deadline is April 2.

Coming in The Californian: Our own Robert Price was in Nashville for the opening weekend festivities and will give readers an all-access guide to the Bakersfield Sound exhibit in Eye Street on April 15.

seen it yet, but we’re going to be playing there on the 11th, so I’m pretty sure they’ll show us around the place — I’m really looking forward to it. The next night we’re playing at the Ryman Auditorium, which I’m really excited about. It will be a great trip.

Dwight, how did you get the gig as narrator?

Yoakam: They asked me! I was so proud that they wanted me to be a part of this project. To tell you the truth, the first thing I thought of was Bonnie Owens and all her contributions to Buck’s and Merle’s music and careers. The whole history of Bakersfield’s musical scene is just so rich in history, from the great songwriters to the characters who brought it all to life. It’s been a huge part of my career, and I was just happy to give something back.

How did the Fender Telecaster fit in to that whole scene?

Haggard: It was huge! All those country songs were written with that sound in mind. You could drive past any of the local beer joints back then and know that sound before you even walked in.

That twang was the Bakersfield Sound! I gave them (the Country Music Hall of Fame) one of my Telecasters for the exhibit.

One of only two in the world. I had a spare made in case mine ever had a problem during a show, and it’s never let me down. The only

ZUMA PRESS

Merle Haggard performs at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto on Jan. 3, 2010.

Merle Haggard When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

Tickets: $69 to $83. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

person who can tell them apart is me.

Yoakam: You know how big a Buck Owens fan I am. I was well aware of the impact the Telecaster had on his music, so naturally it did on everyone else’s, mine included. I’ll always remember the first time I came out to play with Buck, and he let me play his Tele. The same one in the “Streets of Bakersfield” video. Those guitars had close to the same impact as the songs they were played on.

Where did you guys shoot that video?

Yoakam: In Delano! We wanted to do it in Bakersfield, but we needed a street to do it without too much traffic. Somebody suggested we drive up to Delano, and we found a great place to film.

Does the Bakersfield Sound have a future?

Haggard: There’s a lot of talented musicians out there capable of playing the Bakersfield style of music, but who knows if

they’ll want to? Modern country has pretty much turned its back on what we all wrote and played back then, so I guess we’ll just have to see what happens next.

I’m really proud of the songs I’ve written and happy that they’re still being played today.

Yoakam: Of course these songs will live forever. We live in a new era, not just in country music but in all music. It’s not just about what’s in the record stores anymore. If you want really great music, you can get it anytime you want. If you don’t like what’s on the radio, you can get all the Buck and Merle songs you like without much effort. As long as there are real country fans, these songs will be around. And all of us singers and songwriters have been influenced by the Bakersfield Sound.

It will be around as long as I am.

If a bunch of musicians were sitting around talking about the greatest songwriters of all time, Buck and Merle’s names would come up pretty quickly. Is that a fair statement?

Haggard: There’s no doubt that Buck Owens was one of the greatest ever. If people want to mention me along with him, because we’re both from Bakersfield or whatever, I’ll take that.

And don’t forget, there were plenty of other great songwriters from Bakersfield. But if you’re calling

ZUMA PRESS

Dwight Yoakam performs during the Pozo Stampede at the rustic Pozo Saloon in Santa Margarita in April 2011.

me the best ever, you’re crazy.

Yoakam: Buck Owens changed the music world forever with all those songs. All you have to do is look at the artists who sang them over the years, from the Beatles to Johnny Rivers to Creedence — that says it all.

And if you don’t think that Merle Haggard is not just one of the best songwriters of his time, if not all time, just ask Bob Dylan.

He’ll tell you about the genius of Merle Haggard.

18

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street

The kids are all right at Jerry’s Mecca for youth culture officially out of its teens

Jerry’s Pizza and Pub 20th Anniversary DBA Mixer

BY MATT MUNOZ

When: 5 p.m. Tuesday Where: Jerry’s Pizza and Pub, 1817 Chester Ave. Admission: $3 DBA Members / $5 Non Members Information: 633-1000 or jerryspizza.com

Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

T

hough it can be argued that a generation of young music lovers owe a debt of gratitude to Jerry Baranowski, the Polish immigrant can’t, in good conscience, take credit for the idea that would transform his humble pizza restaurant into the Bakersfield headquarters of youth culture.

That seed was planted by local musician Andy Zepeda, who, at the time was a member of the popular ’90s band 2 Lazy 2 Steal.

“Andy walked in and said, ‘We wanna throw a gig here.’ I had no idea what he was talking about.

My English slang was not good.”

With some explanation and a little convincing, the two struck a deal and the first official Jerry’s Pizza concert was held to a full house, in the dining area.

“We were over capacity for that show,” Baranowski recalled.

“There was a line of people out-

Jerry’s Pizza Anniversary week events: Wednesday: comedy night Friday: acoustic music / open mic Saturday: Club Heat dance party

side. We tried it again, and the bands kept coming.”

It’s been nearly two decades, and the bands are still coming, as they will next week when Baranowski extends his thanks to customers for a truly special milestone: 20 years in business at the same Chester Avenue location.

“I had no clue what was going

to happen when we first opened, but it happened,” he laughed.

“Imagine that — a Polish guy in America making pizza!”

During an interview last week at his restaurant, whose walls are lined with concert posters and the many framed accolades he’s received over the years, Baranowski reflected on his life, business, and rough start in America.

“I didn’t want to unpack. I wanted to go home,” recalled Baranowski, 58, who followed his wife, Jolanda, to Bakersfield after arriving in New York in 1985.

Despite having studied political science in Warsaw, Baranowski was forced to start over, taking English classes at Bakersfield Adult School.

“You think you know a lot, but with a language barrier, you are going to be held back. You either learn or give up.”

Baranowski took a job at Mountain Mike’s Pizza in 1989, where he worked for two years before opening his own restaurant.

“Downtown at the time was very vacant,” he recalled. “About 50 percent of the commercial buildings were vacant and sealed

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Jerry and Daniel Baranowski of Jerry’s Pizza.

with plywood.”

He settled on a building that had been vacant for seven years and, after three months of cleanup and business preparation, Jerry’s Pizza and Deli opened in April 1992. Response was positive from the start.

“We were surprised. This was way before the Internet. We opened with no advertising. Business was good,” he said.

‘Delightful chaos’ The following year, Zepeda came forward with his proposition, and the entertainment portion of Baranowski’s business was born. The bands initially played upstairs in the dining area before Baranowski opened the cavernous basement to music.

“Whoever wanted to book or promote a show, they could. I was committed to preparing the

venue and cleaning up afterwards on the weekends. We had all different crowds and music. I was older than everyone else, but my age was a reasonable difference. I became part of the scene, too.”

Among the local and out-oftown music promoters who saw potential in the venue was Nate Berg, who booked many shows exclusively at Jerry’s from 1998 to 2006. Berg managed to attract sizable crowds to his shows and, as word spread, Jerry’s stage became a sought-after spot for many big names.

“It was always important for me to be ahead of the curve when a new genre would come out,” said Berg, 39, during a recent telephone interview from his home in Toronto. “I went from one gig a week to turning it into a business, two to three shows a week. We Please see JERRY’S / 26

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19

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street “I’ve read a lot of convoluted things about this band. You got people dying, members quitting, you got record producers that do great. Hell, it’s a mess. I guess it’s like a marriage. You don’t go through it or life unscathed.”

— Rodney Justo, lead vocalist of Atlanta Rhythm Section

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION

The Atlanta Rhythm Section appears at Bright House Networks Amphitheatre on Saturday.

ARS: No jam band can jam like they can, man Atlanta Rhythm Section as fresh as they were in the ’70s

BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

T

he Summer of Love’s psychedelic grip on music loosened by 1969, making way for the groove-infused decade to come. And few bands are as associated with that loose, ’70s jam vibe than the Atlanta Rhythm Section.

Transitioning from a heavy-hitting guitar-based sound to tuneful pop, the band is responsible for studio game changers like “So Into You,” “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight” and “Champagne Jam,” to name a few. Combining elements of their Southern roots with rock purity, they were a best-selling live arena act whose members loved showing off their technical skills in extended jams.

After 15 albums and soap opera-like lineup changes, ARS bandmates continue performing for crowds with the enthusiasm of a band half their age. They aim to prove they’ve still got it when they make a rare appearance at the Bright House Networks Amphitheatre Saturday.

Lead vocalist Rodney Justo, who has spent ample time with the band since its formation, isn’t shy about the group’s past exploits. The ’70s were mellow, but not for these wild-eyed Southern boys.

“When we got started, we had it better than the other bands. Our manager, writer and producer owned a recording studio,” said Justo, 67. “He would try to get other artists to come over and make records.

Atlanta Rhythm Section When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, 11200 Stockdale Highway Admission: $10 plus service charge Information: 852-7777 or ticketmaster.com

From ’68 to ’73, if you heard a record that came out from B.J. Thomas, Joe South or Tommy Roe, or Billy Joe Royal, that was us playing on it. So, we could make a living, even though we started the band in 1970.”

Like Motown’s legendary Funk Brothers, who provided studio backing for all of that label’s stars and hits, ARS played a similar role in the Atlanta area.

“When artists would come and ask which band they were going to use, the studio would say, ‘You’re using the Atlanta rhythm section.’ That’s just who we were.”

But unlike their Detroit comrades, Justo said the band was reluctant about using its working name.

“We hated it. Because of the type of musicians we were, I wanted to call the band Gift Horse, that was my suggestion.

Our manager was like, ‘No way man, that’s too much like Crazy Horse.’ I’ve had people say our name, then ask where we were from.”

But as fate would have it, the name didn’t hinder the group’s progress and ability to attract a revolving door of multitalented members, including Buddy Buie, Dean Daughtry and J.R. Cobb, who Please see ARS / 25

20

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Artist’s creation is a real hoot Music program aimed at youngsters

I

n a true tale of how the right kind of trash can become a treasure, Betty Younger has turned several abandoned pieces of metal into a 5-by-5-foot sculpture of a great horned owl.

And she’s given it to CALM, where it will be dedicated on Tuesday.

“I bought these three huge pieces of pipe in a junkyard,” she explained. “One (became) the Jesus sculpture I did on commission for the Rescue Mission; the other two were for the owl.”

From the moment she first looked at the other two pipes, what she saw in her mind’s eye was the image of an owl’s head.

“Two of these pipes were hinged together and they almost looked like the eyes of an owl — you know, as you move it (seems) as if the owl’s eyes are moving,” Younger said. “That’s what I saw, anyway.”

After learning that CALM is the home of 24 great horned owls, she decided that’s where the finished piece belonged.

The zoo, in its role as a wildlife rehabilitation center, received the baby birds, called owlets, about two years ago after they were knocked out of their nests by high winds.

“I wanted to do (the sculpture) to honor CALM and the children of Kern County,” Younger said.

Now, after months of welding and painting in her home studio, the artist has completed the piece. And it’s quite impressive, especially its penetrating eyes — black orbs that stand out even more, circled as they are by bright yellow rings and divided by a prominent hooked nose.

While not an exact replica of an owl’s head, it is much more representational than other public art sculptures Younger has

PHOTO COURTESY OF DON RICHARDSON PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBY HAND

Susie Glaze and the HiLonesome Band will appear at 7 p.m. Saturday at Fiddlers Crossing in Tehachapi.

done, such as the modernistic spherical shapes that can be seen in downtown Bakersfield outside the Bank of America building.

At CALM, the sculpted bird towers over a part of the zoo that until now has been occupied only by a metal dinosaur and a ramp leading to the starting point of the zoo’s small train, said Steve Sanders, chief of staff at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools.

“We put it (the owl) in the children’s railroad area so they can see it as they go by, riding the train,” Sanders said. “The area is kind of barren right now but the (plan) calls for developing it over time, and we’ll have more animal exhibits there.”

One of the new exhibits, he said, will be a breeding herd of bighorn sheep, which are expected to arrive during the summer months.

Younger and her husband, attorney Milt Younger, paid for the transportation and installation of the 1,200-pound sculpture. Now standing on a concrete base studded with rounded stones, it rises about eight feet above the ground.

Meanwhile, a “Name the Owl” contest will be held in conjunction with the dedication and CALM’s Spring Fling week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday through April 7.

Camille Gavin’s “Arts Alive” column appears on Thursday. Write to her via e-mail at gavinarts@aol.com

“We’ll ask the kids to suggest a name and write it on a piece of paper,” Sanders said. “And then we’ll let Betty choose the winner.”

Bluegrass band in Tehachapi Fiddlers Crossing in Tehachapi will feature singer and recording artist Susie Glaze and the HiLonesome Band on Saturday evening.

“A native Tennessean, Susie grew up in the shadow of the Grand Ole Opry, learning the craft of country and bluegrass by regular immersion in the music of Flatt & Scruggs, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn and others,” said Debby Hand, owner of the coffee house.

Glaze also appeared on Broadway in the original production of the musical “Big River.” She later moved to Southern California and joined the Eight Hand String Band, a bluegrass group.

In 1999, Hand said, the singer was the winner of the Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival for Traditional Singing held annually in Agoura Hills.

In 2003, she and her husband, mandolin player Steve Rankin, formed the HiLonesome Band.

The group also features songwriter Rob Carlson on guitar and dobro, Fred Sanders on bas, and Mark Indictor on fiddle.

During February the band toured Northern California, where, as Glaze wrote in her blog: “We shared some awesome shows with Houston Jones, Joe Craven and the Kathy Kallick

This great horned owl, a sculpture by Betty Younger, will be dedicated on Tuesday at CALM.

band.” The band also traveled to Memphis for the Folk Alliance International Conference.

Music for young children A new business designed to help parents encourage the musical ability of their children, especially very young ones, will offer its first classes starting on Monday.

Called the Music Together Center, it offers a research-based early childhood program that’s been in existence since 1987 and is headquartered in Princeton, N.J. Local residents Pyper and Eric Von Normann are the owners.

Pyper, director of the center, said the curriculum is taught in 10week cycles.

“Music Together believes that every child is born musical,” she said.

“And if it’s fostered, there’s a better chance they’ll do even more with it later on.”

The first class is in a mixed-age format, she said. It’s open to parents or caregivers of children — infants up to 5 years of age — who will participate and interact with the youngsters in lessons involving music, rhythm and movement. Instruments used by both adults and children in the classes include triangles, sticks, bells and drums.

The center occupies rented space on the lower floor of a twostory yellow house at 17th and F streets. The Von Normanns, who have a 14-month-old daughter, spent the past two months painting and refurbishing the area.

GO & DO Susie Glaze and the HiLonesome Band When: 7 p.m. Saturday Where: Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St., Tehachapi Cost: $20 Information: 823-9994

Parent-Child Music Classes Opening: 3:30-4:15 p.m.

Monday Where: Music Together Center, 1905 17th St. Cost: $195 for 10-week series Information: 979-0157

Spring Fling When: 10 a.m. Tuesday Where: CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway Cost: $9; $7 senior; free to children up to age 12 Information: 872-2256

“We’ve put down a large multicolor rug so the seating is comfortable, and we have a nursing area for moms,” Pyper said.

“We’ve made it very family friendly.”

Regarding her personal background in music, the director said she took piano lessons for 10 years and also played the flute.

Upon becoming a Music Together licensee, she had “three days of intensive training” in Santa Cruz.

21

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Let weekend go to the dogs offer advice to families looking for dogs. Of course, Blake, who exhibits golden and Labrador retrievers, has a suggestion.

“When I’m asked, and of course my opinion is biased, for one of the best family dogs, I don’t think you can beat the Labrador retriever or the golden retriever.”

For current dog owners, vendors are on hand to tempt with their wares.

“There is such a variety of things to buy. We’re all suckers for a bargain or a thing we don’t know much

Kennel Club show a fun family event

BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

It’s Vegas or bust for some show dogs this weekend. That’s a doggone shame for the Kern County Kennel Club’s Back to Back All Breed Dog Shows, which take place this weekend at the fairgrounds.

“This year, we’re a little down in entries,” said Marjorie Blake, the local club’s publicity chairwoman.

“The Las Vegas shows (booked) after we got our dates with the American Kennel Club. They are competing the same weekend.

A lot of our exhibitors are showing there.”

But what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, so on to Bakersfield, where 1,100 dogs will compete over two days in show, rally or obedience.

Although most competitors feature purebreds, mixed breeds are permitted in obedience trials, something that was not allowed by the AKC before 2010.

“With mixed breeds, it’s only been the last two years. As each year goes by, it’s becoming more popular and more recognized.

It’s growing, and I’m glad for it.

“It gives people who do not have a purebred to still show their dog exhibit skills. To say, ‘Hey, look at my dog do its stuff.’”

That stuff includes displays of sit, stay, heel and stay down (for three- and five-minute stints).

The utility contest poses an athletic challenge — jumping a hurdle — as well as a sensory one — scent discrimination.

“You put your scent on a dumbbell, then put it on the pile with other dumbbells and send your dog to retrieve your dumbbell.”

Obedience is judged on a variety of levels.

“Different exercises for different levels of competing. And you see the most faithful exhibits of training.

Trust between the dog and the owner.”

On with the show Although some spectators enjoy seeing dogs go through the paces, many

about. It is really rather a lot of fun.”

Leashes (show and walking) and toys are well-represented, but there’s much more, including photographers, sweatshirts with dogs, jewelry and “all manner of equipment,” from pooper-scoopers to shampoos and conditioners.

It’s not hard to go overboard with pet-related items, but that’s the peril of being a devoted owner.

“People get soft and emotional about their pets, and I am one of them.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARJORIE BLAKE

Marjorie Blake, right, and her dog Brei, who won best in show bred by exhibitor at the 2008 Back to Back All Breed Dog Shows. At left is an unidentified judge.

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attendees are drawn to the show.

“Show versus obedience — we’re two different breeds. When you’re showing your dog in the confirmation ring, you’re looking at No. 1 in the country.”

Owners and professional handlers keep their eyes on the prize to rack up AKC points, depending on the number of competing canines in their breed.

With 180 breeds set to compete, there will be a selection of lesser-known breeds, along with beloved Irish setters, and golden and Labrador retrievers.

“It’s growing every year,” Blake said of the number of

competing varieties. “Some of the miscellaneous breeds we’ve had in the past are now accepted by the American Kennel Club.”

Among the newest are the Xoloitzcuintli, a working breed also known as a Mexican hairless dog; the Dogue De Bordeaux, a muscular working breed also called a French mastiff; Spinone Italiano, a wirycoated sporting dog; and the redbone coonhound, the breed featured in the children’s book “Where the Red Fern Grows.”

Judged in eight groups — herding, hounds, miscellaneous, nonsporting, sporting, terriers, toys and working — winning show dogs will have a shot at best in show.

In addition to that prize, top awards will go to best in show bred by exhibitor and best puppy.

Fun for the family Speaking of puppies (and who doesn’t love a good pup talk?), there should be quite a display on Saturday.

Following the awarding of best in show, the Mojave Golden Retriever Club returns with its all breed fun match.

For the main event, pup-

pies must be at least 6 months old to qualify, but the club’s fun match allows slightly younger dogs.

“They do this annually.

It’s for registered purebreds. If you have a puppy that is 4 to 5 months old.

It’s a social thing to have fun with your dog.

Although it’s fun, you can’t win any AKC points if you win.”

With such youth on display, it’s no surprise that the show is a draw for children and families.

“I encourage people to bring young children. It’s a fun day out. There are lots of food concessions. Or you can take the children a little picnic, as there are places to eat.”

Also sure to attract crowds are demonstrations by the Kern County Sheriff's Department and Bakersfield Police Department K9 units, and the Kern County Firefighters Search & Rescue.

“I think it gives the residents of our fair city and Kern County — if they don’t have the opportunity to see how these units work — an opportunity to talk to them. They are there to help and inform.”

Also helpful are breeders and exhibitors, who can

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22

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

A real-life ‘School of Rock’ ‘Band-Aid’ to benefit budding guitarists

B

akersfield guitarist Ray Vargas believes in the power of rock ’n’ roll.

Standing in front of a full class of bright-eyed future shredders during his after-school guitar class at Washington Middle School, he knows exactly how to hold their attention: keep it interesting, timely and avoid sounding too old.

It’s a lesson learned 18 years ago as a beginning student of music, holding his bright, shiny axe with glistening strings. Vargas is eager to share his musical knowledge with his students, but there always seems to be one problem at every class: not enough guitars. To help his school of young rockers get going, Vargas has enlisted several local bands for “Band-Aid,” a daylong benefit concert Saturday at B Ryder’s.

Vargas’ idea for the afterschool program came to him at the end of 2010, while working at Washington as a campus activities team leader for programs sponsored through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bakersfield. Unable to get his vision off the ground due to lack of funds, he found an ally in site coordinator and Washington staffer Norma Berisha, who helped secure enough money to purchase a set of five new guitars.

The following January, Vargas debuted his first guitar class to a group of 30 kids.

“She (Berisha) is really artistic and helped get things done,” Vargas said. “She was always the one to say,

PHOTO BY ROBERT BEJIL

Students from the Washington Middle School guitar program, top row, from left: Christopher Luna, Dylan Parada, Daniel Alvarez, instructor Ray Vargas, Camelia Gonzalez, Chris Edwards. Bottom row: Andrew Tecione, Zach Parada, Yesenia Tirada, Adrian Estrada.

‘We need more art for these kids.’”

Vargas’ lack of instruments required that all students share in 10-minute intervals, which taught them patience. He said he modeled many of his techniques after the film “School of Rock,” starring Jack Black. In the film, Black uses classic rock, not classical music during lessons.

Instead of Andres Segovia, he uses Kurt Cobain and Rivers Cuomo as his foundation.

“I don’t wanna sit here and bore them with music theory. I wanted to show them chords and scales they can use. When they call out ‘Sweater Song’ by Weezer, I say, ‘OK, here’s G, C, D.’ From there I show them songs that relate within that structure. I try to tell them to focus on something that’s going to get them somewhere. They have to practice, too. I don’t believe in naturals. They may be inclined to have rhythm in their fingers, but you don’t become Eddie Van

Halen overnight.”

Vargas described an example of how he demonstrates the seamless nature of many iconic rock songs.

“The first couple of weeks of class is just about chords. I’ll show them basics like G, C, D mi, on the fretboard, and finger placement,” he said. “I’ll then show them that with G, C, F, you have ‘La Bamba.’”

“La Bamba”?

“You’ll be surprised at the songs they want to learn, they want the real guitar jams,” he added. “Turn the Page” by Bob Seger, “Sweet Child of Mine” by Guns N’ Roses” and “About a Girl” by Nirvana.

Vargas credits the popularity of videogames like “Guitar Hero” and “Rock Band” with introducing kids to most of the songs before they signed up for the 90minute class.

“They all really like ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’ by Bon Jovi. Kids are even asking me if I like Slayer.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

I thought they’d wanna play Paramore.”

To demonstrate to parents and teachers the significant progress of the students, Vargas introduced the class during a nighttime concert in front of parents and teachers. Playing the role of back-up band along with fellow musicians Kris Borbon on drums and Bryant Borbon on bass, he said the reaction was phenomenal.

“It’s cool for them to see and experience. One of the things a lot of music teachers do is not teach kids how to be in a band: how to give cues, taking the lead, and about the camaraderie that comes with it. They love the big rock endings.”

After a year of constant playing, Vargas said the wear and tear on the instruments is becoming more noticeable, but securing repair funds isn’t easy.

“If the kids get passionate about something like this it could become something very positive in their lives. It’s really important to support them.”

What better way than with a mammoth rock spectacle? Saturday’s line-up includes 15 acts from every genre and sub-genre currently making local heads bounce, rock and skank: Memoirs of a Blackened Sky, Less Weight for Atlas, Vlad Arthur, Nada Rasta, Crooked Folk, The Ease, Kenny Reeves and the Clones, With My Resent, The Easy In, Kelli Aparicio, The Aviators, Never See Death, Ticking Time Bombs, Kalladium, plus Vargas’ band, Vanity Avenue.

In addition to the music, there will be a gear drive, where musicians are welcome to stop by and drop off any slightly used, working guitars, strings and accessories to be donated to the Washington Middle School Guitar Program.

“It’s going to be a day of giving back to music and the arts, and a great way to see bands you haven’t seen before. I’d like to get a total of at least five to six new

PHOTO COURTESY OF MACEO PARKER

Headlining Friday’s lineup for the 26th annual Bakersfield Jazz Festival is legendary saxophonist Maceo Parker.

guitars, plus a bass and drum set to form a complete student school band. That’s my main goal.”

Jazz fest lineup announced The 26th annual Bakersfield Jazz Festival lineup has just been announced, with famed James Brown band saxophonist Maceo Parker headlining on Friday, May 11, along with Steve Cole and The R & B Bombers. Performing on the festival’s entry stage will be local Latin rockers Velorio. On Saturday, former Tower of Power saxophonist and smooth jazzer Richard Elliot will cap off a day that also features pianist Amina Figarova, drummer Alphonse Mouzon, Cuban percussionist Melena, Ray Zepeda with Jamael Dana Dean, the Jim Scully 4tet, the Kern County Honor Jazz Band, plus the big fireworks display and more.

Friday’s showtime is 7 p.m., and Saturday’s show starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now.

Prices and packages vary with senior and student discounts available. For more information, visit Bakersfieldjazz.com or call Vallitix at 322-5200.

23

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Rhyme and reason to celebrate poetry

BY CAMILLE GAVIN

POETRY MONTH KICKOFF

Contributing writer

A

s its name implies, National Poetry Month is meant to be observed across the country. But here in Bakersfield, it’s strictly local.

What else could it be with folks as celebrated as poet Don Thompson and author Gerald Haslam featured at the kickoff Sunday afternoon at Russo’s Books?

True, Thompson lives on a farm in Buttonwillow and Haslam, who grew up in Oildale, now makes his home in Northern California. But you get my drift. If you’re anything like me, you appreciate the really good stuff these two write. And it’s nearly all about this rich, fertile valley we love so well. Well, most of us do — love it, that is.

A few days ago I talked to Thompson about the early stages of his writing career and was surprised to learn that Haslam recognized the poet’s talents even then.

“I’m grateful to Gerald Haslam,” Thompson said. “He contacted me in the ’70s and put two of my poems in a book he was writing at the time, ‘California Heartland.’

Meant a lot to me, gave me a sense of validation.”

The anthology, co-authored by Haslam and James D. Houston, is subtitled: “Writing from the Great Central Valley.” Haslam has since published several fiction and nonfiction books relating to California and the West. His latest is “In Thought and Acton: The Enigmat-

PHOTO COURTESY OF DON THOMPSON

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANICE HASLAM

ic Life of S.I. Hayakawa,” a biography of the San Francisco State professor who became famous for his controversial role in the protest movement of the 1960s.

It’s expected that Haslam will read from or discuss the Hayakawa book on Sunday at Russo’s. And who knows? He may draw upon a few others, such as the second edition of “Workin’ Man Blues: Country Music in California,” or “The Great Tejon Club Jubilee.”

Thompson, who now has six books to his credit, will read from “Everything Barren Will Be Blessed,” his most recent published volume of poetry. Like most of his other work, the poems are inspired by the area surrounding his home, a farm that has been owned by three generations of his wife’s family.

“I’m not an urban man. I wouldn’t be able to write and live

Writer Gerald Haslam, left, and poet Don Thompson will appear at the Poetry Month kickoff on Sunday at Russo’s Books.

in an urban environment,” he said. “I belong in a rural environment.”

Poetry Month grows This marks the third year local writers have come together to celebrate poetry. The program was founded by several local poets as a tribute to two colleagues, Lee McCarthy and Helen Shanley, who had died a few months before the inaugural event.

As the celebration has evolved, it’s become more inclusive and now features participants performing in various formats, such as a theater, an art gallery, an independent book store and a church.

There will be eight events this year. All are free and open to the public, with the exception of the Poetry SLAM on April 13 at The Empty Space, where donations in support of the theater will be accepted.

Familyed Own

What: Presentations and book-signings by poet Don Thompson and writer Gerald Haslam When: 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday Where: Russo’s Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Cost: Free Information: 717-1346

Schedule of events 1 to 4 p.m. April 7 at The Foundry, 1602 20th St.: Free workshop on the power of concentrated expression and performance strategies in preparation for the Spoken Word Event & SLAM Competition, hosted by Kevin Shah.

Instructors include Nick Belardes and Tony O’Brien.

6:45 to 8 p.m. April 12 at Russo’s Books. Featuring James Meetze, author of “Dayglow,” winner of the 2010 Sawtooth Poetry Prize. His reading will be followed by open mic, with signups beginning at 6:45. Free. All poems need to be family-friendly, and prose is welcome.

7:30 to 10 p.m. April 13 at The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. A spoken-word event followed by SLAM competition.

To sign up, contact Kevin Shah at 809-3784 or themela-

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7 to 8:30 p.m. April 14 at Russo’s. Free workshop on poetry writing and performance for poets of all levels, taught by Nancy Edwards and LisaAnn LoBasso. All ages.

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 20 at Russo’s. Students of all ages are welcome to read. Limit of two family-friendly poems per student. Free.

1 to 3 p.m. April 22 at Bakersfield Center for Spiritual Living, 222 Eureka St. Free workshop on poetry and healing. Participants are encouraged to bring their poems and songs and share with the group. Taught by Portia Choi.

6 to 8:30 p.m. April 28 at Russo’s. Poets and writers from the community will present two poems or short prose pieces each on a previously assigned theme. The poets and writers have been preselected and invited to participate. Free and open to the public.

For more details, visit tinyurl.com/april-poetry or call Choi at 717-1346or Edwards at 831-1067.

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24

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street

Italian feast invites all to dinner table Best part: Your family doesn’t have to be from the Boot

BY GENE GARAYGORDOBIL Contributing writer

I

talians are famous for making people feel at home.

And what better way for the Italian Catholic Federation Branch 281 to do that than offering up its annual Pasta and Meatball Dinner — a Palm Sunday tradition — at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Bakersfield?

“We are looking to open the event up this year,” said Leonard Zasoski, chairman of the event and current president of the benevolent organization.

So what’s a guy with a last name like Zasoski doing as head of an Italian cultural organization?

“Best thing about it is that you don’t have to be Italian to belong,” said Zasoski, whose family is of Polish and German descent.

“As a matter of fact, my parents were charter members of the local group that has been around about 39 years.”

Considering how tempting the penne regatta meal sounds, many Bakersfield residents are expected to follow Zasoski’s lead and become Italian for a day, no matter their actual lineage.

And no authentic Italian meal would be complete without a secret sauce handed down through the generations. Though he couldn’t be induced to give away too much information, Zasoski said the recipe includes pork ribs, secret spices and goodsized meatballs.

“My godfather, who recently passed away — it was his grandmother’s meat sauce recipe,” Zasoski said. “He would tell me that he would always sneak a little sugar in the recipe because back then, tomatoes had more acidity, making them more tart. So, he would always dump a little sugar in it to sweeten it up.”

The cost for the fundraiser is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

“It’s a huge plate of food,” he said. “We know the last four years have been tough, and we are trying to keep it affordable so you can bring the entire family. So we keep the cost down as much as we can.”

The meal includes salad, French rolls, various beverages, including coffee, and homemade desserts.

“Any kind of cake that you can imagine will be there,” he said. “And almost all of them are homemade.”

Also on the menu are pies, cupcakes, cookies and other treats, all of which are donated to feed the approximately 400 people who attend. Italian music is played throughout the event.

The Italian Catholic Federation was started about 80 years ago in San Francisco, Zasoski said. Its mission: To bring back into the fold Italian Catholics who have drifted away from the church.

Branches, mainly in California, extend as far as Nevada and Arizona, with some in Illinois. There are about 11,000 members

Italian Catholic Federation's Pasta and Meatball Dinner, Branch 281 When: 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday Where: Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Parish Hall, 124 Columbus St. Admission: $10; $5, children

total.

“The federation runs within the Catholic parishes as a charitable organization,” Zasoski explained, “helping keep the spiritual side alive within members.”

There are about 140 local members, who put on several events each year like the Pasta and Meatball Dinner, whose proceeds benefit several local charities.

“We are mainly a family organization within the church trying to create community within,” he said. “Every year, we have different people coming to us, seeking donations. And we try to do the best we can.”

In the past, the pasta feed has made a profit of about $2,800. But Zasoski would like to beat that figure and with that goal in mind, it was decided to “open it up more, and get the word out.”

“We are already doing all that cooking, so why not have as many people as possible attend (including those outside the parish and Catholic faith)?” he said. “It might be strange to some that I’m not Italian. But I am here for the organization and what they do. Italians treat you like family, so everyone should come out.”

In the past few years, Zasoski said the event has fallen on Palm Sunday, the week before Easter.

“Over the years, we’ve had it on different times, but we moved it to Palm Sunday because we always have a pretty good turnout at church,” he said. “So, it became a staple for that day and a good community gathering.”

That pasta meal is not the only event the federation puts together.

Members also put on four pancake breakfasts — two in the spring, and two in the fall; a bocce ball tournament in May; and a horse race event, in which people can buy horses and even “bet” on videotaped races.

“That’s one of our bigger events,” he said.

Zasoski has been a member of the organization for 26 years and has chaired the pasta event about 10 to 12 times.

“When I first became involved, I wanted to make sure these wonderful recipes would not die out,” he said, “because everyone talked about this great sauce.

Everyone raved about it.”

And becoming chairman allowed Zasoski to finally get involved in the “sauce process.”

“I love to cook, and I got to help with it,” he said. “Now I really understand that recipe. And we use several people to make it. Because we want to pass it on from generation to generation, and not let it die off.”

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Family-friendly events get kids, adults on spring kick

BY ALLIE CASTRO

Underwater EggStravaganza

Contributing writer

I

f you’re itching to get outdoors to enjoy the mild spring weather, there are a couple of outings that should fit the bill for family fun.

McMurtrey Aquatic Center is hosting the sixth annual Underwater EggStravaganza, which gives swimmers 12 and under the opportunity to hunt for both weighted and floating eggs, and offers a bag of goodies for their efforts. Little swimmers and their parents can search for eggs in the activity pool and beach entry while older kids can dive into the Olympic pool.

After the 6,000 eggs have been hunted, swimmers may stay and play in the 80degree pool, where the water slides will be offering a preview of the summer fun at McMurtrey. Parents should be sure to bring their cameras, as the Easter Bunny will be available for pictures.

“It’s definitely a really fun family activity, and it’s something different than your traditional egg hunt,” said Bakersfield Recreation Supervisor David Strickland. “We have people that come back each year to do it.”

There is no preregistration, so families are encouraged to show up early, and swimmers 5 and under will require a parent to be within arm’s reach while in the pool.

Spring Fest Murray Family Farms and Lightwave Education are partnering to host the first of what they hope will become an annual Spring Fest. Families will have the opportunity to pick fresh fruit, take a hayride, get their faces painted, play in the petting zoo, make their way through the ant maze, participate in the seed-spitting contest and get

ARS: CONTINUED FROM 19

brought with them a trio of hit songs: “Spooky,” “Stormy” and “Traces.”

“We all had different influences: jazz, country, rock, everything. You’re always better off if you can influence each other, as opposed to a bunch of guys trying to be the same. You won’t get very creative,” said Justo, who left the group following the release of the band’s self-titled debut.

Enter vocalist Ronnie Hammond, who would become the voice of the band during its chart-topping heyday. Justo returned for a brief stint in the ’80s, and again in 2009.

Reflecting on his own turbulent relationship with the band, he maintains a sense of humor, deepened with respect for his fallen friends like Hammond, who passed away last year from heart failure.

“Start watchin’ a soap opera, one that’s been running for 40-something years and you’ll have an idea of what it’s like being in this band. I’ve read a lot of convoluted things about this band. You got people dying, members quitting, you got record producers that do great. Hell, it’s a mess. I guess it’s like a marriage. You don’t go through it or life unscathed. If 80 percent of the things I read from you are accurate, I’ll start calling you Bob Woodward.”

The present-day Atlanta Rhythm Section features original members Justo, vocals; Dean Daughtry, keyboard; Paul Goddard,

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday Where: McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. Admission: $5 to hunt eggs, $10 for Tshirt. Registration is the morning of the event.

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Spring Fest When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Murray Family Farms, 6700 General Beale Road Admission: $15 advance, $20 at the door, food available for purchase.

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moving with a barn dance hosted by a DJ. After working up an appetite, participants will have the chance to purchase a variety of healthy items, including roasted corn, grilled asparagus, and veggie and turkey burgers, among other treats.

Entertainment will be provided by the South High Folk dancers, the Bakersfield Youth Orchestra, dancers from Penn Point Dance Academy, and Bakersfield Music Theater. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding the second summer session of The Freedom School, a six-week summer program that describes itself on its website as “a summer literacy and leadership program that guides children to discover their personal gifts and talents and inspires them to fully express [themselves] as caring and contributing community members.” The full-day program is free to participants.

bass; and newer bandmates Steve Stone and David Anderson, guitars; and Jim Keeling, drums.

“We’ve been very lucky. The songs of the Atlanta Rhythm Section have been really big copyright songs. I mean, these songs would go on even if we didn’t show up.

That’s what kept us together. I don’t wanna brag, but the band had a lot of hits.”

Justo said the band will stray from the regular set into some obscure fan pleasers at some point on Saturday.

“I love a song called ‘Dog Days’ and a song called ‘Red Tape.’ The songs are a little more rockin’. Paul has what Rolling Stone has called, ‘The greatest bass solo ever put on record.’ It’s a song called ‘Another Man’s Woman.’ We’ll do a reworked version, not the original 14minute version. You know, we are probably the only band on earth where the bass player is the most known guy in the band.

You mention the ARS, they always ask about him — ‘the big guy.’”

He also promised no more lineup changes before the show.

“We’ll do all our songs with what people are looking for — integrity. We show up and give the people what they deserve, the best. The first thing people say when I say we’re playing Bakersfield is, ‘Ah, Buck Owens style.’”

25

26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street JERRY’S: FROM 18

Bakersfield rolls out red carpet for film

BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

When Bakersfield emergency care physician Kevin Schmidt tells friends his film production company is releasing a movie, he usually gets a skeptical reaction.

“They’re like, ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Who’s in it?’

“I say, ‘Val Kilmer and Ving Rhames.’ “‘Oh, really.’ And then they get interested.”

So interested, in fact, that tonight’s Bakersfield premiere of the company’s latest film, “7 Below,” is sold out — and that’s without the star power of Kilmer and Rhames, who are unable to attend.

“We’ll have the red carpet there, a professional photographer and a Q&A session after the movie with some of the actors,” Schmidt said. “I don’t know if you’ll see too many limos pull up, though.”

The idea to debut the film at Maya Cinemas was hatched by Schmidt and his fellow investors in Efish Entertainment, a Los Angeles-based feature film production firm. Three of the five investors, including Schmidt, live in Bakersfield.

“We thought it would be fun to bring a little Hollywood up here and do a movie premiere,” Schmidt said in a telephone interview Wednesday.

“We’re hoping to bring more movie productions into Kern County, which

has a tremendous amount of variability in the terrain.”

“7 Below,” which Schmidt describes as “sort of a ghost story,” was filmed near Cincinnati, in part because attractive financial incentives were offered. The national film premiere is scheduled for April 5 in that city, and the Cincinnati Reds have signed on to help promote it.

Schmidt said the film should make its way back to Bakersfield in late April or early May. Their involvement in the film world, which began around 2009, has been a heady experience for Schmidt and his two Bakersfield business partners, fellow emergency care physician Tom Reilly and health care management consultant Terry Hilliard.

“We’ve been winding down our medical practice and were looking to invest in something, and Tom came up with this,” Schmidt said. “From a business model, there is a little risk, but it’s kind of sexy and we decided, let’s give it a shot.

“The lowest part of society is in the emergency room, seeing people sick and dying, and then you have the other side — the glamour of Hollywood and talking with and mingling with stars like Val Kilmer and Ving Rhames and the movie premieres, the lights and seeing something you helped make on film.”

Judging by the upcoming films Efish Entertainment has a hand in,

EFISH ENTERTAINMENT

Tonight’s Bakersfield premiere of “7 Below” at Maya Cinemas is sold out, but the film will return later in the spring.

the stars will only get bigger: Paul Walker of the “Fast and the Furious” franchise is filming “Vehicle 19,” and Jeremy Irons and screen legend Vanessa Redgrave are attached to “Night Train to Lisbon,” based on the best-selling book of the same name.

“We’re investors, but we have input in greenlighting films,” Schmidt said. “If a film comes to us, you’re offered an interest in the movie and if it looks like something you want to do, you bring in other investors.”

But for now, Schmidt’s focus is on “7 Below,” which will mark his first movie premiere despite the release of another film by the company a few years ago.

“Last time, I had to cover for Tom, working in the ER. It was like, don’t quit your day job just yet.”

Hungry for cinema? Head to Valentien THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Known for indulgent dishes, Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar offers a cinematic treat with the return of its Movies on the Patio.

Starting with “Rebel Without a Cause” on April 14, the restaurant will host movies on Saturdays through the spring and summer, ending on Aug. 18 with “Stand by Me.” Held on the patio starting around sundown, the

MOVIES ON THE PATIO April 14: “Rebel Without a Cause” April 21: “High Noon” April 28: “Swingers” May 5: “The French Connection” May 12: “Like Water For Chocolate” May 19: “Easy Rider”

screenings will get a boost from a new projector.

May 26: “Dr. No” June 2: “The Maltese Falcon” June 9: “Little Miss Sunshine” June 16: “Say Anything” June 23: “National Lampoon’s Vacation” June 30: “Grease”

Viewing is free of charge, but dinner is available for

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July 7: “Midnight In Paris” July 14: “Amelie” July 21: “Dr. Strangelove” July 28: “Yojimbo” Aug. 4: “Fistful of Dollars” Aug. 11: “Breaking Away” Aug. 18: “Stand by Me”

purchase. Some film nights will have a food tie-in — a “Movie and Dinner” prix fixe special with thematic elements to the menu — but the details were not confirmed as of press time.

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helped introduce the changing of the guard in hardcore and pop punk, and rap rock, which was still big in town. Jerry let us rent at a very fair price.”

Some of Berg’s biggest shows featured acts just beginning to blow up in the alt-rock, metal, and hardcore scene: Cursive, Chiodos, Bleeding Through and others. For older punk rock fans, Jerry’s hosted acts like Youth Brigade, The Business and D.O.A. The scene downstairs reflected the hardcore mayhem on stage: sweaty, energetic, aggressive and in some rare cases, violent.

“The music scene was delightful chaos,” Berg said.

“Kids will be kids.

“We always had to be on guard in order to not jeopardize the goodwill of the venue. We got treated very well by the city and in a positive light. We had a bad reputation with a lot of people, but the place was always packed. That’s always been the appeal of rebel music. Everything goes. We also did a lot of Christian bands and raves.

The venue reflected an open mind. The only line in the sand was criminal activity.”

During that time Jerry’s DIY reputation spread nationally, becoming a destination for many major label acts like Buckcherry and Weezer, whose careers had stalled. For those old enough to remember and fortunate enough to have scored a ticket, the Weezer basement concert of 2000 has become a legendary entry in the annals of local music lore.

Bakersfield guitarist Salvador Galindo, with his band Johnny Shock, had the privilege of opening for Weezer.

“Every local band wanted to be on that show and had been bugging Nate,” recalled Galindo, who was 19 at the time. “All we did was show up in the alley with our instruments. He peeked out and asked, ‘You guys got your gear? You’re on in an hour.’ All of us were just super-excited. We all high-fived and squeezed ourselves through.

“There were people just neck and neck, and the mic kept hitting me in the face. I had friends stand in front so my teeth wouldn’t get chipped. An amazing experience.”

Berg, who now works in advertising, has fond memories of those wild years at Jerry’s and praised Bara-

nowski for his efforts.

“My favorite shows were when the local bands all delivered. Watching bands blossom through a lot of friendly competition and cross pollination in the scene. It ran counter to the predictability. It’s one of those adages of life: You don’t know what you got until it’s gone. I have a greater appreciation of it now. The place has a life of its own.”

Helping to carry on that legacy today is Baranowski’s 22-year-old son Daniel, who will be stepping up to share in many daily responsibilities at the family business.

“When I was young I used to watch my dad work, tearing down walls and painting,” he said. “I would get a hammer and ask to help, then go play with my soccer ball in the basement.

I’m really happy to have the opportunity to do this myself now.”

Daniel added that since he and his brother, Kamil, grew up working for their father as young pizza makers, cashiers, janitors and assisting with show production, the transition feels natural.

“I’ve been around here since the beginning. I’ll be making more decisions, trying to spice the place up, cleaning, more remodeling.

I also plan on adding more items to the menu, with more beers on tap, too.”

If you’d like to book a show, just stop in and pitch your gig idea.

To celebrate the milestone, Jerry’s will offer food and drink discounts all next week. On Tuesday, the Downtown Business Association will host a special mixer to honor Baranowski, and Mayor Harvey Hall will present him with a special proclamation. The rest of the week’s events include Comedy Night on Wednesday followed by acoustic music night on Friday and a special dance DJ event on Saturday.

“My dad’s an icon with his accent and personality,” Daniel said. “I realize how much work he’s done and it makes me think that much more highly of him. We’re gonna work on things together as far as business. I don’t expect him to go home and be a couch potato, but I think he deserves a break.”

As far as retiring someday, Baranowski said you can forget it.

“No retirement. You expect me not to be here?” he laughed.

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

27

28

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 29, 2012

Eye Street Go & Do Today “7 Below” Movie Premiere, pre-party at 6 p.m., premiere at 6:30 p.m., Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. After the movie ends, the director and actors from the film will be available for a Q&A. Free. Limited seating. For tickets, visit bakersfield7below.com/.

“Ancient Land, Enduring People, Future Hope,” with speaker John Winchester of Christians United for Israel, 7 p.m., CSUB, Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free.

Business After Hours Spring Trade Show Mixer, 5:30 to 8 p.m., Marriott Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. $5. 327-4421.

Kelly Clarkson: Stronger Tour 2012, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $40.60-$81.45. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.

Organ Recital, with Joseph Simms, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 2216 17th Street & B. 861-6020.

Friday Merle Haggard, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $69-$83. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Condors vs. Utah Grizzlies, Kern County 4-H Condors Fundraiser, first 2,000 children 12 and under will receive a Condors street hockey stick and puck set, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $10-$15, tickets must be purchased in advance from a 4-H club or member, prices will not be honored at the box office.

324-7825.

Fish Fry for Life, sit down or take out available, 4 to 8 p.m., St. Francis of Assisi Church, Parish Hall, 900 H St. $10. 864-7508.

FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “Beginners,” 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org or call 4280354.

Master Songwriting Session, with world class writers Randy Sharp, Steve Dorff and Maia Sharp, performing their hit songs, special appearance by Justine Dorsey, 7 p.m., American Sound Recording Studios, 2231 R St. $20.

Visit asrstudios.com or 864-1701.

Saturday 2012 Concert Series, with Atlanta Rhythm Section, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $10. ticketmaster.com or all Ticketmaster outlets or by calling 800-745-3000.

23rd annual Isabella Lake Fishing Derby, fishing derby contest with $250,000 in prizes, Saturday through Monday, Lake Isabella. isabellafishingderby.com or 760379-5236.

CALM’s Spring Fling, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, through April 7, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway.

GO & DO

JASON MOORE / ZUMA PRESS

Singer Kelly Clarkson performs on Jan. 31 at her 2012 tour’s stop at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

Kelly Clarkson: Stronger Tour 2012, 7:30 p.m. tonight, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $40.60-$81.45. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Children ages 3-12 are free with a paid adult admission. calmzoo.org or 872-2256.

Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 3274706.

Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road.

Condors v. Utah Grizzlies, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825.

Eighth annual Chili Cook-Off, judging begins at 3 p.m.; dinner at 4 p.m., Salvation Army Community Center, 4417 Wilson Road. $7 adults; $2.50 children ages 4-10; $10 per entry to compete. Proceeds benefit The Salvation Army’s “World Services” program.

836-8487.

First annual Find a Cure Benefit Dance, bounce houses, live entertainment, food and drink specials, prizes, 4 p.m., Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178. $10; $2 children 13 and under. 871-1342.

Green Frog 100th Concert Celebration, music by Paula Einstein, Abbey Road, The Patterson’s, Limited Edition, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Green Frog Market, 258 Bernard St. Free concert, barbecue meal, $5.99. 322-8420.

Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, 1 to 3 p.m., Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. 5784570 or 327-7507.

Kern County Kennel Club All Breed Dog Show, gates open at 7:30 a.m., event from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $4 adults; $3 seniors; $2 children ages 10-16; free for children

under 10. kerncountykennelclubinc.com or 397-7514 or 303-1920.

Master Songwriting Clinic, amateur writers will get a Q&A session, have your songs critiqued, evaluated by world class writers Randy Sharp, Steve Dorff and Maia Sharp, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., American Sound Recording Studios, 2231 R St. Visit asrstudios.com or 864-1701.

Optimal Hospice annual Team Roping Competition, ropers will compete for cash prizes and buckles, two saddles will be given to top winners of the day; registration 8 a.m.; competition 8:45 a.m., Thunderhead Ranch, 30791 Orange St., Shafter. Free admission. 716-8000.

Relay for Life Bunco Party, 2 to 6 p.m., 13511 Providence Place. $20. 873-8569 or 303-2544.

Spring Craft & Vendor Faire, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Olive Branch Community Church, 12000 Olive Drive.

Free.

Spring Fest 2012, with family activities, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Murray Family Farms, 6700 General Beale Road. $15 advanced; $20 at the door; ages 5 and under are free.

Texas Hold’em Night, presented

by Kern County Law Enforcement Foundation; with barbecue dinner at 5 p.m., poker tournament at 6 p.m., 420 Club, 3910 Alfred Harrell Highway. $100 donation; $30 dinner only (non-players). 342-1532.

Underwater EGGStravaganza, for egg hunters 12 and under, of all swimming abilities, who will have the opportunity to collect weighted eggs and receive a goody for their efforts, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. $5 to hunt eggs; $10 for Tshirt. 865-6291.

Sunday The Quadraphonne Saxophone Quartet, 4 to 6 p.m., Dagny's Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. Free. 6340806.

Pasta & Meatball Dinner, hosted by Italian Catholic Federation, Branch 281; 4 to 7 p.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 124 Columbus St. $10 adults; $5 children under 12. Visit olphbakersfield.org.

National Poetry Month featuring writers, Gerald Haslam and Don Thompson, Q&A, book signing, 3:30 to 6 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686.

THEATER “Go! Condors,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23.

587-3377.

Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Advancement, 8 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Ice House, 3401 Chester Ave., Suite M. Adults: $5, children under 12 are $1. ciacomedy.com.

Major League Improv, improvi-

sational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted.

327-PLAY. “[title of show],” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through April 7, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Suggested donation of $15; $10, students and seniors. esonline.org or 327-7529

ART Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Art for Healing program, classes that alleviate stress, resulting from illness, or grief. All classes are free but some suggest a donation and are held at Mercy Hospital, Truxtun Campus, Truxtun and A St. Visit mercybaakersfield.org/ art or to register, 632-5357.

Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, offers stained glass classes, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. For times and dates call 327-7507.

The Art Shop Club, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Art Shop, 1221 20th St. All mediums. 322-0544, 5897463 or 496-5153.

MUSIC Acoustic Kern River Brewing Company, 13415 Sierra Highway, Kernville, 760-376-2337; Mike Fleming and Ray Sadolsky, 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Bluegrass Fiddlers Crossing, 206 E. F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; Susie Glaze & the HiLonesome band, 7 p.m. Saturday. $20.

Classic rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; No Limit, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Open Range Band, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday.

Comedy Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Improv Tuesday Live comedy with DJ after party, 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Country Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Token Okies, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Vince Galindo, 9 p.m.

Wednesdays.

Dancing Bakersfield Rounders, ballroom (cued) transition class levels two and three, 7 p.m. Tuesdays, South Bakersfield Veteran’s Hall, 1905

Wilson Road. $10 per couple. 7477921.

Beginner Belly Dance Lessons, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays, Centre Stage Studio, 1710 Chester Ave. 323-5215. $45 regular session; $65 combo session. bakersfieldbellydance.biz.

Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all ages, 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. $22 per month for beginners; $25 per month for advance dancers. 833-8790.

Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Dr., offers ballroom dance, East Coast swing (jitterbug) and Argentine Tango dance classes; $35, $45 for nonmembers. 322-5765 or 201-2105.

Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 399-3658.

Pairs and Spares Dance, with Western Connection, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $7; $9 nonmembers. 399-3575.

Whirlaways Square Dance Club, has workshops every first, third, fourth and fifth Mondays, Park Stockdale Civic Association Community Center, 205 Rio Bravo Drive. whirlaways.org or 213-3105.

DJ Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; with DJ Casey Overstreet, 9 p.m. Fridays.

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; DJ Brian, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesday.

DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111; live in the mix: old school, ’80s, & ’90s music, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Saturday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; with DJ Chill in the Mixx, 5 p.m. every Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; DJ James, 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Free.

The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; with Meg, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Jazz Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway., 834-4433; Richie Perez, 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633WINE; live music & wine bar with featuring local artist and Jazz Connection, along with 24 wines, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

King Tut, 10606 Hageman Road; live instrumental and vocal Jazz, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Friday and Saturday. Free.

29

Thursday, March 29, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Bakersfield Jazz Workshop, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Wednesday.

Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Jazz Invasion, 9 to 10 p.m. every Saturday.

The Nile, Jazz Music, 6 p.m. every Sunday. Cost $10 at 1721 19th St. 364-2620.

Wine Me Up, 3900 Coffee Road, 588-8559; Mauro and Rico Velazquez, 7 p.m. Saturday.

Karaoke B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; 8 p.m.

Thursdays and Tuesdays.

Banacek’s Lounge, 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday at 4601 State Road. 387-9224.

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays and Sundays.

Big Daddy Pizza, 6417 Ming Ave., 396-7499; 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday; 8 to 11 p.m. every Friday.

Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 4200 New Stine Road, 397-5000; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

Cataldo’s Pizzeria, 6111 Niles St., 363-7200; 6:15 to 10:15 p.m. Tuesdays.

Chateau Lounge, 2100 S. Chester Ave., 835-1550; 9 p.m. every Saturday.

City Slickers, 1001 W. Tehachapi Blvd., 822-4939; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Corona’s Cantina, 9817 S. Union Ave., 345-8463; 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays.

Del Rio Cocktail Lounge, 5840 State Road, 393-0262; 8 p.m. every Saturday.

Don Perico Restaurant, 2660 Oswell St., Suite 133, 871-2001; 7 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court; 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays.

Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

Iron Horse Saloon, 1821 S. Chester Ave., 831-1315; 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., 6 to 10 p.m. every Friday.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays.

Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 10612 Rosedale Hwy. 589-0412.

Magoo’s Pizza, 1129 Olive Drive, 399-7800; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant, 10701 Highway 178, 3663261, 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays. All ages.

McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Sports Bar, 14 Monterey St., 869-1451; 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays.

SUMMER CAMP LISTINGS Do you offer activities for children over the summer? Send us your information and we will run a free listing in The Californian. Information is due by April 20.

Email your event to summercamps@bakersfield.com and include the following: Pizzeria, 4200 Gosford Road, 3971111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

Pour House, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 4041 Fruitvale Ave. 589-9300.

Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 323-0053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays.

Replay Sports Lounge & Grill, 4500 Buck Owens Blvd., 3243300; 8 p.m. every Wednesday.

Rocket Shop Cafe, 2000 S. Union Ave., 832-4800; 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; 8 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays.

Rocky’s Pizza & Arcade, 2858 Niles St., 873-1900; 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, 836-2700; 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Round Table Pizza, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; The Junction with host Mac Clanahan, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays.

Round Table Pizza, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays.

Rusty’s Pizza, 5430 Olive Drive, 392-1482; 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

Sports & Spirits, 6633 Ming Ave., 398-7077; 9 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays.

Syndicate Lounge, 1818 Eye St., 327-0070; with Alisa Spencer, 9 p.m. every Wednesday.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; with Juan, 7 to 11 p.m. Thursday.

Tejon Club, 6 to 10 p.m. every Saturday at 117 El Tejon Ave. 3921747.

The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; 7 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Junction Lounge, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; 8:30 p.m. every Thursday.

The Playhouse, 2915 Taft Highway; 397-3599; 7 to 10 p.m. Sundays.

The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; hosted by Ed Loverr, 9 p.m. to midnight Friday.

The Regent, 2814 Niles St., 8714140; 8:30 p.m. every other Friday.

The Wrecking Yard, 9817 S. Union Ave., 827-9192; 7 to 10 p.m.

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Name of camp; address of camp; contact information (phone number, email and website of organization); dates of all sessions being offered (beginning date through end date); registration deadline; theme; age range of participants; activities; and cost.

Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 1440 Weedpatch Hwy. 3635102.

Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., 496-2502, 7 p.m.

Thursdays. 21 and over.

Latin/salsa DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court, 633-1949; various levels, 3 to 9 p.m. every Sunday. $5 per person, per lesson.

Mariachi Camino Real Restaurant, 6 to 9 p.m. every Sunday at 3500 Truxtun Ave. 852-0493.

Music showcase The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; featuring local artists, 7 to 10 p.m. every Wednesday.

Oldies KC Steakhouse, 2515 F St., 3229910; Jimmy Gaines, Bobby O and Mike Halls, 6:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Old school Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Al Garcia & the Rhythm Kings, 8 to 11 p.m. every Thursday.

Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; The Press, 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $5 per night.

Open mic Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m.

Wednesdays. $5.

The Canna Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Friday, East Hills Mall, Food Court, 3000 Mallview Road.

Rock B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill,, B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Black Water Soul, 9 p.m. Thursday; Therese Muller and Travis Byler, 9 p.m. Friday. $5 Friday only.

Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday.

The Gate, 2010 O St., 323-4162; The Great Commission, Leaders, Reliance, From Untold Beginnings,

Of Athena and more, 6 p.m. Friday. $10 advance; $12. Visit facebook.com/thegaterocks.

The Underground, inside Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., 633-9800; Of Mice and Men, 6 p.m. Friday, $10 Friday; Design the Skyline, The Browning, From Atlantis, 6 p.m.

Saturday. rock. timgardeapresents.com.

Trivia night Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 7 p.m. Tuesdays.

Chuy’s, 2500 New Stine Road, 833-3469; 7 p.m. every Tuesday. trivia night.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 4/02 CALM’s Spring Fling, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, through April 7, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway.

Children ages 3-12 are free with a paid adult admission. calmzoo.org or 872-2256.

Kern County Rose Society Meeting, 7 p.m., Calvary Bible Church, 48 Manor St. 327-3228 Senior Discovery Days, for seniors 60 and older receive 50 percent off admission, 10 percent discount in the gift store, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 8722256.

Tuesday 4/03 Bakersfield Kids Club, enjoy a visit from the Easter Bunny, craft projects, 10 a.m., Valley Plaza Mall, 2701 Ming Ave. Free. 832-2436.

DBA Mix & Mingle Mixer, mixer 5 p.m., dedication by Mayor Harvey Hall 5:30 p.m., mixer 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jerry’s 20th anniversary celebration 7:30 to 9 p.m., Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave. $3 DBA members; $5 nonmembers. 3255892.

Sierra Club Conditioning Hikes, three to five miles, 7 p.m., meet at corner of Highways 178 and 184.

872-2432 or 873-8107.

Wednesday 4/04 CASA Volunteer Orientation, learn how to make a difference in the life of an abused, abandoned or neglected child, noon to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m., CASA, 2000 24th St. kerncasa.org or 631-2272.

Film Club, with Cody Meek, 7 p.m., Barnes and Noble, 4001 California Ave. 631-2575.

First Wednesday, special events and refreshments, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $4 non members. 323-7219.

Titanic Exhibition, featuring photographs, live music and local business, 11 a.m., 3:45 and 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Friday, Edwards Cinema, 9000 Ming Ave. 663-3042.

Thursday 4/05 Bookseller’s Book Group, 7 p.m. first, Barnes and Noble, in the cafe,

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’ Join the Eye Street crew — Jennifer Self, Stefani Dias and Matt Munoz — on “Californian Radio” this morning and you could win tickets to the Atlanta Rhythm Section concert on Saturday or the Kelly Clarkson show tonight. Just listen for your cue to call and dial 842-KERN. We'll also round up all the exciting events taking place around town in the next week and preview what's to come in Eye Street this weekend.

“Californian Radio” broadcasts from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday through Friday on KERNAM, 1180.

4001 California Ave. 631-2575.

Chris Isaak, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $40.50 to $65.50. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Edans Edge, 7 p.m. Thursday, Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Free. Reservations, 328-7560.

Titanic Exhibition, featuring photographs, live music and local business, 11 a.m., 3:45 and 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Friday, Edwards Cinema, 9000 Ming Ave. 663-3042.

Friday 4/06 First Friday Downtown, featuring live music, art openings, specialty shops, galleries and boutiques, artists will set up their artwork, 5 to 9 p.m., Downtown Arts District. Email don@themetrogalleries.com or 634-9598.

Saturday 4/07 “Friends of Autism” Dinner, with author John Hall of “Am I Still Autistic,” 6 to 11 p.m., Doubletree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $90 per person; $500 table of eight. 617-6440.

“Geology of Yosemite National Park,” with geologist Tim Elam, 3 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. $7; free for members. 324-6350.

Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706.

FACT Open House, 1 to 4 p.m., CSUB, Environmental Studies Area, 9001 Stockdale Highway. 6543167.

Garden Project Community Meeting, learn how to plant your own vegetable garden, 10 to noon a.m., St. Luke Anglican Church, 2730 Mall View Road. 332-3204.

Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, 1 to 3 p.m., Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. 578-4570 or 327-7507.

Just for Kids, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. $7 adults; $5 students w/ID, seniors; $4 for children under 18; 5 and under are free. Members are free.