Eye Street Entertainment / 5-24-12 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

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

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

For his untitled Eye Gallery piece, Joshua Cain stretched canvas over hardwood flooring that he had found on the side of the road and repurposed. He diluted his acrylics with salt water, which he said helps the paint bleed a bit and become softer to the eye. Of thinning paint, he said, “It took me a long time to figure out my own technique with this. I’m not sure if this technique is commonly used, but I know that it works for me.”

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street “As the artist I am, I feel that I should be using everything around me to create.”

COMING SUNDAY: THE CALIFORNIAN SALUTES THE CLASS OF 2012

— Joshua Cain, Eye Gallery artist

Trash is his treasure Artist finds inspiration from discarded items BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

lthough you won’t find him on the front lines of a Big Oil protest or handing out pamphlets on the environment, Joshua Cain Burns is an activist, at least artistically. The 25-year-old Starbucks barista and artist (who creates work under the name Joshua Cain) was moved by a recent experience at a monster truck rally. “I went with (my girlfriend) Laura and (her son) Aidan to see the monster trucks. It was enjoyable, but when I saw the huge gas tanks behind on these things, it made me sick that I had bought a ticket for this. “I’m not super pro-alternative fuels, not saying I go out and protest. (But) I feel strongly that if we don’t go out and find better ways to do things, we won’t be around to figure out where it went wrong. That’s why I use things around me to make art.” Cain has turned recycling into an art form, canvassing the alleys and neighborhoods near his home in the heart of Oildale, looking for pieces he can use as-is or repurpose. “I did make eyeglasses out of a piece of plywood that I found down the street from my house. It was pretty challenging. It was my first try at epoxy resin, which I’m finding more uses for as I create. I took wood-working in high school for about two to three years, and find it was very useful in what I do now, in creating things from trash wood. “When I see trash wood, I see potential for that wood to live again. Turning ugly things into things that are beautiful or just have a use. Everything has its purpose. (It’s a chance) to give everything meaning in your life, even if it isn’t deep meaning, even if it’s a pencil holder.” Wood also serves as a canvas for Cain, including his Eye Gallery piece, an untitled work he said was inspired by the hospitality he encountered on a recent trip to Honolulu. “When we went to Oahu, we rented scooters. We weren’t honked at, we weren’t cussed at. We weren’t looked down upon. I ride a scooter here (in Bakersfield), I get people honking at me, cussing at me. It’s every part of town, from Oildale to Rosedale. “I found that in Oahu, that people were really respectful of their land, took pride in their community, their lands. “The painting resembles in the background the roads that tighten in the city of Honolulu. The flowers coming out of the middle are out of this harsh landscape of business and society, with nature still

About Eye Gallery Every year, The Californian and the Bakersfield Museum of Art ask local artists to create original works for Eye Gallery, a series that runs in the paper over the course of several weeks. The idea is to give our readers a glimpse of the amazing work being produced by the many talented artists in Kern County. We gave this year’s participants a theme — “A Day in the Life” — and several weeks to complete their work. After all the art has been featured in The Californian, a reception will be held at the museum on June 14, and everyone is invited to come meet the artists and experience the works. All the works are available for purchase.

prevailing through it.” The Eye Gallery exhibit will be Cain’s first at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, but not his first gallery show. Last February, he helped open the Cabinet of Curiosities. Cain envisioned the small space on East 18th Street as a tattoo shop with art exhibits and musical performances, but eventually shut its down as finances and artistic support proved problematic. Although the Cabinet has closed, Cain plans to continue pursuing tattooing, saving up toward a license and working on one day opening a shop. For now, he focuses on his paintings and developing his voice as an artist. He shared more about his work in an interview. Some of your pieces incorporate shadow boxes, clock works and found materials. Do you find inspiration in unconventional items? I love clocks, and not necessarily the function of a clock as a measurement of time. The clock is more a measurement of experience in life along with what you pursue in it. We remember things by time and date. I think time is very important as a whole if not for everyone. As the artist I am, I feel that I should be using everything around me to create. I think if we as artists or even creative people can use what we have around us, it would take not only trash or debris off the streets, it would turn eyesores into something useful, or beautiful to look at. This is my way to recycle and give back something beautiful to people who see the beauty made out of nothing. Based on your body of work, you are drawn to contemplative portraits. Why is that? Most of the people in my portraits I find to be tormented souls in one or many ways. I find comfort in that feeling. I think that people in distress can either force themselves to become great, or they

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Joshua Cain said people who want to experience art should take artists to dinner, see what makes them tick, rather than just buy something “to put on their mother-in-law’s wall.”

can destroy themselves with all the hate and pain they feel at times. I’m drawn to that personally. A lot of my friends … and I can be self-loathing. Not to say I’m that way all the time. We all have those feelings some time or another. I think there’s something real about that. You can see the real person through everything. I wanted to get away from people smiling. That’s what we’re “supposed to do.” Grab somebody around the shoulder and smile. I think smiles are a blank wall. They get boring after awhile. Who are your favorite artists? One of my favorite artists as of now would have to be a man named Beau Stanton, who I’ve been watching rise to become a great visual force. As far as locally in Bakersfield, I have much respect for a photographer named David Karnowski, also two great painters by the names of Andrew Dutton and Jeremy White. You wrote that you have always known art would be your profession. How has your work changed since you were a child? My work has changed from crayon and pencil to paint, wood, pen, oil, tattoo. I’m just getting more advanced and more technical. In my opinion, I’m sure that I can do anything I put my mind to artistically. And I won’t let anything or anyone get in my way of personal success.

Coming next Thursday Gary Sutherland’s ode to a loved one

With one important milestone down, graduating seniors from across the country are saying goodbye to high school and hello to college. Local students have been accepted to some of the finest universities in the country, while others plan to stay close to home by attending Bakersfield College or Cal State. This Sunday, more than 600 Kern County seniors will be honored in our 12-page college-bound seniors section, one of The Californian’s most anticipated features of the year.

COMING IN EYE

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

The Fig Marmalade Burger at Eureka! Gourmet Burgers & Craft Beer. Sunday: Restaurant critic Pete Tittl made it to Eureka! Burger to sample one of the city’s newest restaurants. Judging by crowds alone, the upscale burger and bourbon joint seems to be a hit. But does the food live up to the hype? Tittl makes his ruling Sunday.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

Eye Street

Spotlight still down but not out Theater tries to overcome period of ‘mismanagement’

Spotlight Yard Sale When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 2 Where: 21st and G streets Admission: Free Information: 872-2040

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer

espite rumors to the contrary, Spotlight Theatre is still alive and its board seems determined to keep a tighter rein on the financial side of the business. Without sharing many specifics, Peggy Darling, vice president of the Spotlight Foundation board of directors, is candid in saying the theater at 1622 19th St. went through a period of mismanagement in the latter half of 2011 and earlier this year. “Now we have a business plan in place and we’re going to have a business manager,” she said. “I know it will work if everybody does their role like they are supposed to.” One thing Darling is adamant about is sticking to a budget. “We hope to do two shows in the fall,” she said. “But we if don’t have the money, we don’t do anything.” The position of business manager had not been filled as of Monday. However, Jarred Clowes will continue as artistic director. Clowes’ wife, Kat, who has a professional background in costume design, is the daughter of Joanne Brinkley, current president of the foundation. Brinkley underscored Darling’s

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remarks and said the board is “aggressively pursuing underwriting” for the musical “9 to 5,” which Spotlight hopes to produce in late September or early October. So far, no director has been assigned to the show. Advance funding, as well as the success of the musical’s box office, will have an impact on the future of main stage shows. “Getting underwriting and good ticket sales for ‘9 to 5,’ that would be pivotal,” Brinkley said. “But the school is definitely happening.” The school, officially named the Spotlight Academy of the Arts, is set to open on June 11. It is being funded by a $12,000 grant Spotlight received earlier this year

from the Bakersfield Californian Foundation. Ashten Smith is the school’s director and Ron Steinman, a retired high school teacher, is handling the educational components. Steinman, recently named treasurer of the Spotlight board, has been a prominent figure in local theater for about 40 years. He was one of the founders of Bakersfield Civic Light Opera, now known as Bakersfield Music Theatre and the umbrella organization for Stars Restaurant Theatre. Smith said both she and Steinman are actively recruiting enrollment of students ages 6 to 13. “It’s very exciting to be involved in the instructional part,” she said. “It’s very fulfilling and rewarding to see the kids grow and develop, and then put on a show.” Students’ five weeks of instruction will culminate with three performances of Disney’s “Little Mermaid” July 13 to 15. Classes will take place in a building adjacent to the theater, but the show will be presented on Spotlight’s main stage. Smith, who gives private voice lessons, has participated in a number of the theater’s productions, including “The Producers,” “Into the Woods” and “Next to Normal.” Her assistants at the school include dancer and choreographer Marvin Ramey, cos-

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Brinkley said “the landlords” are paying for the repair work, one of whom is Darling. An ardent supporter of Spotlight since its founding 14 years ago, Darling is co-owner of the building that houses the theater and includes offices that are leased to other tenants. Meanwhile, the board is getting ready for what Brinkley calls a “gigantic yard sale,” on June 2. It will be held in a warehouse owned by Darling, which is behind the Fox Theater at 21st and G streets.

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Carolyn Fox as Cinderella and Bryce Rankins as the prince appear earlier this year in Spotlight Theatre’s production of “Into the Woods.”

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tumer Alexis Skaggs and Bryce Rankins, graphic designer. For the last three or four years the Spotlight Theater has been considered a key element of the downtown arts district, but upheaval, both on the board and among staff, has thrown in its future into doubt. Hal Friedman, who had served as Spotlight’s artistic director for five years, announced his resignation in August for personal reasons. Then Clowes, his successor, announced in January that the season, which was supposed to end in July, would be curtailed. As it turned out, the season ended the first week of March with the final performance of “Dangerous Liaisons.” Today, it may look as if there’s nothing happening at the theater but Brinkley, the board president, said there’s a lot going on inside in terms of refurbishment. “It’s an old building, you know, built in 1895,” Brinkley said. “We’re bringing the sound and lighting systems up to date — that’s being done right now.” Structural and technical renovations are being done by professional craftsmen. In addition, a number of volunteers are engaged in sprucing up the interior. Many of the helpers are season-ticket holders who turned down the board’s offer of a cash refund because of the shortened season and want to see the theater continue in operation.

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Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

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FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Jon Whitener, left, and his father, James, are owners of the new downtown club On the Rocks, which will welcome customers with a soft opening today. Drinks will be served, but the kitchen won’t be open until next week.

Rocks ready to roll: Downtown venue opens Drinks, food, live music return to Fishlips’ old site BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

he symphony of power saws, hammers and drills that’s been playing non-stop for months will make way for a more melodious sound this weekend when the building that formerly housed rockin’ venue Fishlips once again reverberates with music. On the Rocks Bar & Grill, downtown’s newest nightspot, will welcome customers with a soft opening this afternoon. The owners, father-and-son team James and Jon Whitener, have been busy for five months working toward their goal of opening before the arrival of summer. The weekend’s opening is the culmination of an ambitious project to combine their adjoining Riverwalk Café with a full dinner menu, live entertainment and late-night partying inside one multiuse venue. “We’re ready to start having fun,” said James Whitener, 48. “We know people have been waiting for us, but it all came down to do we hurry up and do an OK job or do we wait and do a great job? I really want everyone to be proud.”

On The Rocks Bar & Grill 1517 18th St. 327-7685 Hours: 3 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Monday through Saturday

The Whiteners hatched the idea of expanding downtown just months after opening the original Riverwalk Cafe, on Stockdale Highway, in 2010. “We knew just one was not going to be enough,” the elder Whitener said. “My passion has always been cooking, but I also loved the idea of a nightclub. It was just a matter of getting the ideas out of my head and on the canvas. A lot of people said I was crazy to do this. I kept asking myself, ‘Can I make this work?’ Then after a few months when the changes were showing, I’d have 20 to 30 people a day walking up saying, ‘I can’t believe it looks like this.’ Lots of positive feedback after I gave them a tour of the progress.”

Drinks and vibe There are few remnants left of the former tenant. The exterior of the building has been painted and a snazzy sign installed. Once inside, it’s striking how much remodeling has been done since January, a month after the Whiteners took ownership. During a tour Monday, work was still

being done on some back areas of the club but inside the main hall, the new music stage stood ready for use. Located in the northeast corner, the carpeted stage measures 19 feet wide and 16 feet front to back, and features a drum riser and rear sound-absorbing panels. The space is large enough for a standard four- to five-piece ensemble, and some strategic maneuvering could accommodate larger groups. There were no tables arranged on the dance floor during our visit, but chairs were stacked near the retractable wall separating the Riverwalk Café and the club. For events that require extra room, the wall will be opened for a combined capacity of 299. Wide-screen televisions hang along the walls and will be used to showcase the live entertainment, courtesy of the two cameras placed near the martini-shaped beams in front of the stage. At other times, the screens will be tuned to sporting events. At the center of it all is the glitzy, fully stocked bar. Designed with a metropolitan flair, the illuminated outer section features the club’s logo, designed by Bakersfield artist and musician Dane Forst. The club’s unique blue color was developed following a lengthy visit to the local Dunn-Edwards Paints. Please see ROCKS / 28

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

A farce to be reckoned with French comedy pours on the silliness

ven though Cal State Bakersfield’s “Hotel Paradiso” is set in Paris, you won’t hear any of the actors speaking with a French accent. “In the original piece, they would be native speakers of French and wouldn’t have an accent, so they don’t need the differentiation when it plays in English,” said Mandy Rees, director of the play, which opens this evening in the Dore Theatre. Of course a foreigner to France would have an accent, which is the case with one of the characters, the hotel manager. His lines are written in what Rees calls “cliché Italian,” an exaggerated comic version of an Italian accent. And it’s exaggerations of that kind that make a farce, well, a farce. Typically, this theatrical genre is a broad form of comedy notable for its hilarity, improbable situations, horseplay — some of it a bit naughty — mistaken identities and complex plots. “Hotel Paradiso” was written in the early 1900s by Georges Feydeau and Maurice Desvallieres, who are considered masters of farce. “Working on this show is both delightful and draining; it takes a lot of work and attention to details, more than the cast originally thought, and they have all risen to the occasion,” the director said. “Farce speeds by at a lightning quick pace, and demands considerable energy and concentration.” In preparation for the show, Rees invited Leonard Pronko, one of her former professors at Pomona College, to give a lecture to her students. Pronko, she said, is an expert in French farce. “He (Pronko) warned us that when Feydeau is done properly, by the end of the show, actors are exhausted,” she said. “So we must be doing something right.” “Hotel Paradiso” tells the story of Boniface, a wandering husband played by

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANDY REES

Angelique, played by DeNae Brown, confronts Boniface, her adulterous husband portrayed by Miguel Torres in the CSUB production of “Hotel Paradiso.”

GO & DO ‘Hotel Paradiso’ When: 8 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday Where: CSUB Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: $10; $8 seniors, faculty and staff; $5 students Information: 654-2240

‘The Last Romance’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Stars Restaurant Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. Admission: $50 to $54; $30 students Information: 325-6100

Arts Grants Applications Deadline: May 31 Where: Kern Community Foundation, 3300 Truxtun Ave., Suite 220 Information: 616-2605

Miguel Torres, who covets Marcelle, his neighbor’s wife, portrayed by Cristina Goeyneche. The couple steals away for a private tryst at the run-down “Hotel Paradiso,” knowing that no one of their acquaintance could possibly be staying there. True to the play’s farcical nature, the result is opposite to what they had hoped and what

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

follows is a series of non-stop complications, interruptions and escapades. Because of its complexity, Rees said, the play presents a number of technical challenges. “Farce is known for requiring a number of doors so characters can hide, storm off, sneak in and other such mischievous things,” she said. “Our show has seven actual doors, plus three other entrances. We move between two locations, we have to have seven beds on stage as well as a fireplace, a second-story window, multiple lit candles, and a host of other props. So it is complicated.” Other members of the cast are DeNae Brown as Angelique, wife of the errant Boniface; Mitchell Hochstetter as the cuckolded husband; the maid Victoire, played by Linda Lara; and Maxime, the student, played by Alex Garcia. CSUB student Jessica Boles will give a pre-show talk about Feydeau, farce and elements of the production, starting 45 minutes before each of the six performances. Boles plans to pursue dramaturgy as a career. “Hotel Paradiso” continues at 8 p.m. May 31 and June 1-2, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on June 3. Tickets will be sold at the box office before each performance.

Romantic comedy at Stars A comedy about an elderly widower’s new-found love opens Friday evening at Stars. It was written by Joe DiPietro, a Tony Award-winning playwright. Bruce Saathoff, the director,

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BECKMAN

Kathleen Shaffer as Carol and Virginia Lenneman as Rose appear in a scene from the Stars Restaurant Theatre production of “The Last Romance.”

said the response to Stars’ previous presentation of another show by DiPietro, “Over the River and Through the Woods,” influenced his choosing the current show. “We did (‘Over the River’) a few years ago and people really liked it,” he said. “This (‘Last Romance’) was written by the same person and it’s in the same kind of vein. It’s kind of poignant but it’s balanced.” Jim Fillbrandt has the role of Ralph, a widower who lives with his sister Rose, played by Virginia Lenneman. The scene opens in a park where Carol, played by Kathleen Shaffer, has lost her little dog. And, yes, it’s a real dog of an indeterminate breed but Saathoff said it appears only in the first act. Ralph finds the pup, whose name is Slammer, and returns it to her. From then on the romance develops over the objections of Ralph’s sister. Fourth member of the cast is Fred Cremer, who plays the part of Ralph as a young man. Cremer reveals, through a series of flashbacks, Ralph’s unfulfilled dream of becoming an opera singer. Performances continue weekends through June 16.

Arts grants available The Kern Community Foundation is accepting grant proposals from local arts and cultural

organizations through May 31. Megan Boynton, manager of nonprofit outreach, said in a news release the purpose of the grants is to help such organizations operate a more effective business and for sustainability. For details, go to kernfoundation.org. Since its establishment in 1999, the foundation has grown to hold more than 100 charitable funds with assets of more than $13 million, according to the release. It has awarded more than $8 million in grants to improve Kern County’s quality of life.

Upcoming BMT musicals Bakersfield Music Theatre’s only production during the summer months will be “Bye Bye, Birdie.” It will be performed by members of the teen workshop of BMT’s School of the Performing Arts. Bruce Saathoff, artistic director, said exact dates haven’t been determined but he expects the musical will be presented in August or September. BMT is the parent organization of the school and Stars Restaurant Theatre. In November, BMT will present a second edition of “Wrinkles,” a musical revue featuring local people who are older than 55. For more information about the workshops, call the school at 716-0316.

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

No passport needed for trip Choir to take listeners on journey to Paris BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

ou might not think fine French cuisine when you think Hodel’s, but the Bakersfield Masterworks Chorale promises to deliver “An Evening in Paris” with a concert and fundraiser at the northside restaurant famous for fried chicken. “Our spring concert is always a fun night: a fun night of music, a fun night of food, and this year it’s going to be particularly exciting,” said first soprano and event chairwoman Susan Guerard. “The French theme and the menu is a first for us, and we’re very anxious to see how that all turns out.” Event planners worked closely with head chef Don Hodel to develop a menu full of items sure to please any gourmand, including: fruit and fine cheeses, Burgundy beef tips, garlic roasted chicken (sorry, guys — it’s French, not fried), rosemary roasted potatoes, individually caramelized crème brulees, and plenty of wine and champagne. While the Bakersfield community choir is best known for its annual Christmas performance of

‘An Evening in Paris’ benefit for Bakersfield Masterworks Chorale When: 5:30 p.m. June 2 Where: Hodel’s Country Dining, Liberty Room, 5197 Knudsen Drive Admission: $50 Information: 324-8857

Handel’s “Messiah” (this December will mark the group’s 80th performance), the spring soiree features much lighter fare, such as the songs of Cole Porter. “We will have close to 57 members performing, and it’s definitely going to a very entertaining performance,” Guerard said. “Specifically for the spring concert, we like to perform lighter music, more pop music. Some of our songs will be in English, and we’ve got one in Spanish, and of course, we’ve got one in French; there’s just a lot of variety. This is definitely something people can come and sit back and enjoy, even if they’ve never been to one of our performances before. It’s not as overwhelming as seeing, say, a requiem.” When audience members have finished savoring their supper and the Masterworks Chorale is

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra

CALIFORNIAN FILE

The Bakersfield Masterworks Chorale along with members of the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra perform Handel’s “Messiah” at the Olive Drive Church in December.

done singing for theirs, there will be plenty of time left to browse through close to 70 silent auction items, such as season tickets for two to the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra; a United States flag flown over the Capitol, donated by U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy; a catered dinner for six at Cricklewood Nursery; and more.

All funds raised from both ticket sales and the auction will go directly to the nonprofit choir, one of the few (the only, according to Guerard) adult community choirs in Kern County. The majority of the money will go toward the costs of the choir’s “Messiah” performance, but most importantly for Guerard, the

evening helps keep her love of music and her choir in full bloom. “If we didn’t have music in our lives, just as if we didn’t have art, if we didn’t have flowers — all of these forms of natural beauty — if we didn’t have those things, just think how dull and void our lives would be.”

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Laughs, yes; Shaq, not so much Mexican rockers headline jubilee

f you plan on checking out Shaquille O’Neal’s All Star Comedy Jam when it rolls into the Fox on Saturday, don’t be surprised when the big man himself doesn’t walk onstage. According to promoter Erroll Jackson, whom I spoke with briefly on the phone, although Shaq’s name and likeness does appear on the advertisements, he will not be accompanying comedians Corey Holcomb (who is hilarious), Capone, recurring “Saturday Night Live” performer Finesse Mitchell and Robert Powell. The information was also confirmed by the Fox. In doing some sleuthing, I found there is an official website for the tour at shaqallstarcomedyjam.com. There you’ll find a promotional video, which, when clicked, pops up with the message, “This video is private.” There’s another video on a jump page featuring Gloria Govan of VH1’s “Basketball Wives” hosting a backstage soiree for a show at Oakland’s Paramount Theatre back in January. After that, I gave up. Let’s face it: The NBA playoffs are in full swing, and I doubt Shaq would jeopardize leaving his position as a commentator for TNT to pop into the Fox. Not that it wouldn’t be cool; just don’t kid yourselves, folks. Saturday’s show time is at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $40.50 to $63. The Fox Theater is located at 2001 H St. For more information visit vallitix.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF JON HILL

Comedian Corey Holcomb appears Saturday at the Fox as part of “Shaquille O’Neal’s All Star Comedy Jam.”

or call 322-5200. PHOTO COURTESY OF NACIONAL RECORDS

Silver Lake Jubilee

Mexican alternative rock quintet Kinky appears at this weekend’s Silver Lake Jubilee in Los Angeles.

As much as I love Bako, even I need a getaway to re-energize. The Silver Lake area of Los Angeles is one of my favorite out-oftown getaways and, this Memorial weekend, I plan on enjoying the festivities at the Silver Lake Jubilee on Saturday and Sunday, beginning at noon both days. Both a street fair and music festival, the event has drawn a line-up of eclectic musical tribes. Headliners range from rising soul singer/rapper Aloe Blacc, to Santa Barbara indie heroes The Black Watch, and current scenesters like The Soft Pack, La Santa Cecilia, Abe Vigoda, as well as comedy and local bands on six stages. While many blossoming music festivals get overrun with corporate meddling or suffer from mismanagement (as was the case at last year’s Sunset Junction), the Jubilee has managed to retain its indie spirit, showcasing loads of undiscovered talent. It’s a delicate balance that organizers and critics are monitoring closely as the festival heads into its third year.

Mexican Latin alternative rockers Kinky, who perform on the festival’s Sunset Stage at 10 p.m. Saturday, emerged in 2002 in the wake of the Latin music explosion with a danceable electronic rock mix. Formed in the Mexican city of Monterrey, they’ve remained on the radars of listeners, singing both in Spanish and English. Now residing in Los Angeles, keyboardist and accordion player Ulises Lozano said the band’s sound remains a direct reflection of their regional roots and early experimental interests. “Back in the mid-’90s there was a place in downtown Monterrey called ‘Barrio Antiguo,’ where many bands began experimenting with sounds. We were hearing heavy metal, rap, electronic and traditional Spanish music together. It was a very exciting time for us, because we stood apart from the crowd. Now, this new generation, they all find it very normal to listen to Los Tigres del Norte, then Iron Maiden.” The music of Kinky has been

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.

heard everywhere from TV shows to scores of video games. With four full-length releases to their credit, they return July 15 with “Sueño de la Maquina,” on Nacional Records, an album that Lozano hopes will continue to expand their crossover fan base. Joining Lozano are members Gilberto Cerezo, vocals; Carlos Chairez, guitar; Omar Góngora, percussion; and Cesar Pliego, bass. “We will continue our making music based on our interests and things we’ve always been drawn to. We like to entertain people onstage, and not just be forgotten about during the music. Everyone will be dancing with us on Saturday.” Tickets for the Silver Lake Jubilee are $20 to $35. For more info, visit: jubilee.is.

Weezer tribute encore In classic farewell fashion, last week’s Weezer tribute show at B Ryder’s returns for an encore presentation, this time at Sandrini’s. According to band members, they became overwhelmed with requests for another chance to catch the show from friends and fans who missed it again — like

me. Bless their hipster hearts. Friday’s downbeat is 9 p.m. Sandrini’s is located at 1918 Eye St.

Matt’s picks The Riverboat Gamblers at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 8 p.m. Friday, $10, 397-7304. Straight outta Denton, Texas, punk rock quintet The Riverboat Gamblers are every bit as potent as they were when they hit the scene in 2001 with their classic double-sided 7-inch “Mean Motormachine/Jenna (Is a No Show.)” It was loud and rowdy, and in complete contrast to the downer feel of emo. I’ve caught them opening up for Flogging Molly, onstage at the KRAB Free 4 All, and on the Vans Warped Tour. They’ve killed it every time. Highly recommended. The Mothership DJ Night at Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 10 p.m. Saturday, 322-8900. This popular monthly gathering of vinyl junkies and Serato heads returns to the underground intimacy of Sandrini’s downtown. House DJ reps — Sabretooth (one of the few local lady DJs), Chito, OMS, Qwiz and others spin everything from underground rap to rare groove and beyond.

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

KERN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS 1142 South “P” Street

It’s Morrissey madness One fan’s love of singer immortalized on YouTube

May 25 • 5pm-10pm May 26 • 10am-10pm May 27 • 10am-6pm All Drums & Dancers Welcome! Native American: Inter-Tribal Dancing • Arts & Crafts Family Fun • Cultural Awareness • Native Food

ADMISSION: $6 KIDS 10 & UNDER FREE! For info: Gene Albitre 589-3181 Email: standingbearpowwow@yahoo.com

BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

hat is it about the songs of Brit pop singer Morrissey and his former band, The Smiths, that keeps faithful listeners in peculiar states of fan worship? Could it be just the music — a mix of pop, folk, rock and country with humorously dramatic lyrics about depression, doomed relationships, and the pain of home life? Or maybe it’s the dark baritone and romantic falsetto of dapper singer Morrissey, who returns to Rabobank Theater on Friday. When it comes to extreme fandom, few are as daring as Noelia Citialin, who, during Morrissey’s last Bakersfield appearance in 2007, went to great lengths to get up close and personal with her idol, onstage. “In his videos there is always someone jumping up onstage giving him flowers and hugs. When I found out he was coming to my town, right then I had it set in my mind I was going to do the same.” The pint-sized Citialin, 37, recruited the help of her then-boyfriend to play a key role in helping to execute her amorous attack, from her seat at the far reaches of the venue. “I gave my purse to my friends, and told Jose it was time. He said, ‘OK, let’s go,’ she recalled. “I figured we’d better try towards the end of the show, just in case. He was the decoy for security, but there was only so far he could go. I kept moving closer. When I got near the stage, I told some random guy what I wanted to do and if he could please give me a push when I said go. You have to have some serious adrenaline, because you don’t know what’s gonna happen. I ran over and got to hug Morrissey. I had no intention of kissing him, I just wanted to give him a hug. I was surprised security just put me back out in the audience.” That precious moment for Citialin is literally unforgettable, considering she and the rest of the world can relive it on YouTube. For local fan Marisol Arias, 38, Morrissey’s music offers an opportunity to recall simpler times. “Listening to The Smiths and Morrissey just brings back memories of hanging out with my friends from high school in the ’90s. We didn’t have a lot of money, but we used to go to house parties all the time wearing our Dickies, halter tops, and Doc Martens. Their music was always playing. For us it was a different sound than what many of our parents were listening to, which was a lot of Spanish music. They used to think it was weird.” This will be Arias’ second time catching the singer live and, believe it or not, only her third major concert.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOSE CITIALIN

Noelia Citialin managed to get onstage with her idol once. Why not again?

Morrissey When: 8 p.m. Friday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $64.50 to $79.50 Information: 852-7777 or Ticketmaster.com

Like so many other hardcore fans, she personalizes her admiration for the singer through fashion accessories, including her homemade Morrissey hair clips, which she sells through her online store, High Drama Boutique. “I never get tired of his music, but my husband is. My kids always say, ‘Do you have to put Morrissey on again?’ My favorite songs are ‘Suedehead,’ ‘Big Mouth Strikes Again’ and ‘There Is a Light That Never Goes Out.’ I’ll be taking a friend who couldn’t make it to the last show I went to in November.” Citialin has been to several Morrissey shows, though it’s the one she missed that still haunts her. “I’ve been a fan since 1987, when they were just about to end. I’ve seen him six times on solo tours. It should have been seven times, but my mom grounded me once, even after my friends drove all the way from Los Angeles to pick me up. Worse ground-

ALEX HORVATH / THE CALIFORNIAN

Devoted Morrissey fan Marisol Arias is ready for the upcoming concert at Rabobank Theater.

ing ever,” said Citialin, who boasts a large collection of memorabilia and hard-to-find import releases by the singer. On Friday she plans on attending the concert once again with Jose, who’s now her husband. So, can we expect to see Citialin fly across the stage? “I have every intention of trying again. Hopefully someone won’t beat me this time and ruin it,” she laughed.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

Eye Street

Weekend of indigenous culture Annual powwow moves to Kern County Fairgrounds this year BY GENE GARAYGORDOBIL Contributing writer

ene Albitre’s Native-American cultural and spiritual awakening occurred as a teenager. He learned the lost art of rawhide work and other customs from a neighbor who was a ranch hand. Today, Albitre tries to carry on what he’s learned to another generation as coordinator of the annual Standing Bear Powwow, which takes place this weekend at the Kern County Fairgrounds. He said he hopes young and older Native Americans, who may have lost their way, can rediscover their culture, traditions and spirituality. Albitre, 57, runs the powwow with his son, who thought up the event after starting a Native-American campus club while a student at Bakersfield College. Albitre set up the nonprofit Native American Heritage Preservation Council of Kern County to find sponsors for the event. And along with his son and the campus group, he created the first-ever Standing Bear Powwow in Bakersfield. The three-day event features intertribal dancing, native arts and crafts, cultural awareness, native foods and overall family fun. Everyone is welcome to attend,

Standing Bear Powwow When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 South P St. Admission: $6; children under 10 years old are free Information: 589-3181 or email standingbearpowwow@yahoo.com

whether they possess a drop of American Indian blood or not. The event brings together local tribes, with others from across the nation, including Arizona, New Mexico, Washington and Chicago, for dancing and drumming competitions. Still, Albitre doesn’t consider the gathering an entertainment event. “It is more spiritual, as our circle of life, which is very prominent in our culture,” he said. “We have tribes in bright outfits, which are a sample of what our culture was back then.” “It helps us teach our kids the culture, and we can also promote it and our practices to our community. A lot of our people were denied their culture in the past. And this is our way to bring that culture back to them.” Albitre said none of the dancers, drummers or other performers are professionals. “No one is getting paid to perform, and

no monetary prizes are being given,” said Albitre, who works as the Native-American spiritual leader at North Kern State Prison in Delano. The coordinator said that powwows are a starting point for many Native Americans seeking cultural identity. “We have a lot of people who come and say, ‘Well my grandmother was Native American, but I’m not,’” Albitre said. “It really gives them an opportunity to learn about our culture and become part of it. “Because not long ago, Native Americans didn’t have religious rights,” he said. “It takes a big understanding to learn what was lost and denied.” Profits from the powwow go back to the council, he said, and are used for various cultural teachings throughout the year. “We’ll do nature walks or hikes along the Kern River, where we explain native plants and their medicinal value, how they work,” Albitre said. He remembers being taught to do rawhide at age 13 by his neighbor, a hand at Tejon Ranch. “I learned to braid and tie, all that stuff.” In turn, he passed the tradition to his son, while he was in the Boy Scouts. “I was working with what was a lost art for quite a few years now,” he said. This year’s show will offer a few firsts for the powwow. It will be at the Kern County Fairgrounds instead of the Bakersfield College campus, home to the previous 15

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Nolan Morris-Yazzie, left, and his father, Chilito Valenzuela, wear their Northern Traditional Dance attire at the Standing Bear Powwow in 2011.

events. Also, it will be during Memorial Day weekend. In years past, it was always the first weekend in June. Still, Albitre expects about 8,000 to attend. “It depends on the weather,” he said. “It is Memorial Day weekend, too. But it kind of fits because we are giving respect to the elders who passed on before us.”

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street “If we’re going to be Christlike people, we have to step up in the community and help people with special needs.” — Joe Strickland, president of the Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry

Sabbath Keepers ride for the kids Fundraising road trip helps group’s charitable ministry BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

or most of his life on two wheels, Joe Strickland was a stereotypical biker: rough, mouthy and up to no good. “I was a hell-raiser when I was kid and spent a lot of time in juvenile hall,” he said. “I’ve never been to prison, but did my share of jail time.” He got so wild, he said, that even his wife refused to ride with him. But then he confronted his demons, addressed his various addictions, returned to the church and realized that the straight and narrow was the path for him. He was reborn to be mild. And through the Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry, he’s able to indulge his passion for his Yamaha Road Star with a pursuit he finds even more meaningful: spreading the Gospel and helping those who need it. He’ll be doing the latter on Saturday with a ride and barbecue the ministry has organized to benefit H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection, an organization that provides support for children with disabilities and their families. “If we’re going to be Christlike people, we have to step up in the community and help people with special needs,” said Strickland, president of the local Sabbath Keepers chapter. The approximately 90-mile ride, which departs the H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection parking lot at 9:30 a.m., is open to anyone with a motorcycle. Riders are headed for Bakersfield National Cemetery, where they will

Motorcycle ride and barbecue Ride: Registration for the ride starts at 8 a.m. Saturday; the 90-mile ride starts at 9:30 a.m. and departs from H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection, 3101 N. Sillect Ave., Ste. 115. Cost is $25 to $35. For more, call 303-6341, 201-6649 or 3319560 Barbecue: Starts between noon and 12:30 at Fruitvale-Norris Park, 6221 Norris Road. Cost is $8 or $5 for children 12 and under.

stop for refreshments and a brief presentation before heading back for a chicken barbecue at Fruitvale-Norris Park. The entire community is invited and, beyond the food, activities include face-painting, raffles and a silent auction. Proceeds from the bike run and barbecue will benefit H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection and League of Dreams, a sports program for disabled children. Strickland estimates there are about 24 Christian motorcycle ministries in town, including Sabbath Keepers, which requires that members be Seventh-day Adventists. Still, Strickland said motorcyclists who don’t attend the church are welcome to ride with the group, which has about 22 members in Bakersfield. There are 17 Sabbath Keepers chapters nationwide, he said. “We try to minister to other motorcycle groups. We pray for people who request prayer. I have a special ministry where I minister to veterans only. “We have people in our ministry who don’t even have motorcycles. We have some in wheelchairs and they ride the GET bus.”

CSUB seeks college grads for documentary Cal State Bakersfield is seeking participants to interview for a documentary about first-generation college graduates who come from a migrant labor background. The project, called “Camp to Campus,” will offer insights about how people choose to leave the fields behind and attain higher education — and, more broadly, how first-generation college students negotiate different worlds. The project is funded by Cal Humanities’ Community Stories Fund and CSUB. For more information, visit csub.edu/camptocampus. To be considered for a role in the documentary, take the online survey by May 31.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

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Eye Street

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FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

“I want a place where you can be yourself,” said Jon Whitener, above, who co-owns On the Rocks with his dad, James Whitener. ROCKS: CONTINUED FROM 21

Bakersfield Smile Design (661) 323-8585 1919 G. Street Bakersfield CA, 93301 www.BakersfieldSmileDesign.com Dr. Krauss, his wife and their wonderful children.

“Every small detail was done and redone until it was right,” James Whitener said. “The special paint mix is even called On the Rocks blue. If you’re gonna have a place like this, you have to have the wow factor. A lot of my inspiration comes from Vegas and Mexico nightclubs I’ve visited over the years.” Taking a break from his new-hire orientation, bar manager and musician Nate Antwine, 30, showed off the bar’s specialty drink menu, featuring original mixes with names like the Miami Vice, the Long John Island, the Chuck Norris — all $8 — and the Crème Brulee Martini, $7. “I’m really happy to be a part of something new,” Antwine said. “We have some really excited, personable employees ready to serve. I’ve learned from other venues I’ve worked at over the years, so when we don’t have bands, we’ll create a lounge feel where you can relax.” As the youngest member of the team, co-owner Jon Whitener, 25, who oversees much of Riverwalk Café’s daily business, is looking forward to creating an ambience fit for people of all walks of life. “I want a place where you can be yourself. I like wearing shorts and T-shirts, that’s me. You can also dress up if you like, have a great meal, and enjoy a great live show. Our city has a lot of people. We’ll be offering another option to have a good time.” Among the other upgrades are new bathrooms, decorative lights in the shape of ice cubes throughout, the downstairs green room and VIP section still under construction, which will offer wine storage, and the front and rear fenced patio areas, where patrons can enjoy beverages and meals. As I continued my stroll in an around the venue, James Whitener pointed out more plans, including free cab rides for patrons who’ve had too much to drink and safe overnight parking on the property’s west lot. “We’d like to give people extra incentive to come on out. If I have to make a little less money for you to have fun, that’s just fine,” the elder Whitener said. Former Fishlips co-owner Shawna Haddad-Byers, who recently met James Whitener, has yet to revisit her old stomping grounds but had only good things to say about her new business neighbors.

“He put a lot of love in that place. He’s a lovely man and I wish them the best of luck. Welcome to the neighborhood,” she said adding that her new lounge, Muertos, located in Wall Street Alley, will be opening for a business in a few weeks.

What’s for dinner? The On the Rocks kitchen, which functions separately from Riverwalk Café, will be serving dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday beginning next week, with appetizers continuing later into the late night, depending on demand. The menu features American cuisine with a decidely down-home spin, courtesy of James Whitener, who will be manning the grill with former R.J.’s chef Dan Phillips. “Its Southern-style cooking with a twist,” said James Whitener. “I’m a good ol’ boy that loves to cook.” The 11 appetizers range from $6.95 to $10.95, and there are a variety of sandwiches, burgers, soups and salads on the menu. Entrees start at $10.95 for the beerbattered fish and chips, and go to $24.95 for the 16-ounce rib-eye. A kids menu is available, with all items priced at $6.95, and there are five items for dessert, including pina colada cake ($5.95) and fudge cake brownie sundae ($5.95), which uses Dewar’s vanilla ice cream. Bakersfield promoter Tim Gardea is handling booking and promotion for the venue. The owners said outside promoters are welcome to plan shows when there are openings, and bands are encouraged to drop off demos for booking consideration. The state-of-the art in-house system was designed by Pacific West Sound of Bakersfield. Children are welcome at the restaurant, though some concerts are expected to have age restrictions. “We still have to get a feel for what styles of music we’ll be comfortable with, and we’ll try to consider everything that comes in,” said James Whitener. “I want everyone to have a chance to play.” There is no entertainment scheduled tonight but on Friday the club will host local bands The Bird Channel, Crooked Folk and DJ Josex, beginning at 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, Vanity Avenue and The Aviators will appear at 9 p.m. For more information on upcoming shows, visit the On The Rocks Facebook page or iloveontherocks.com, which is coming soon.

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Smokin’ and chokin’: BBQ results are in Winner, who scored upset, headed to world finals

Winners of Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest BBQ Grand champion: Big B’s Down-nDirty BBQ (Bill Souza, Pacifica) Reserve champion: Who’s Smokin Now (Raymond Porter, Banning) Pork: Big B’s Down-n-Dirty BBQ Ribs: My Smokin Grillfriend (Jeff Pollock, Bakersfield) Brisket: Pelletheads.com (Larry Hill, Hanford) Chicken: Woodhouse Barbecue (John Anderson, St. Helena) Tri-tip: Karnivorous (Kris Almquist, Arizona)

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

fter the grill cooled, the kings of Q were crowned at Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest BBQ, held last weekend at the Kern County Fairgrounds. Perhaps the biggest upset involved the grand champion. For two years running, David Malone with All Sauced Up of Valencia has taken the top honor. But this year, with a guaranteed shot at the World Barbecue Championship, Bill Souza of Big B’s Down-n-Dirty BBQ turned the heat up and took top honors. This was the first time the Pacifica team competed in Bakersfield, but it may not be the last. Who’s Smokin Now, led by Raymond Porter of Banning, also edged out a twoyear champion, taking the reserve grand spot from Matt Dalton and Left Coast Q. The results disappointed the two reigning champs, according to event organizer Mike George, who said both are “very, very competitive.” (All Sauced Up ranked eighth overall and Left Coast Q was fourth.) Not content to leave the competition to the adults, the Kids Q took off, with 20 children between the ages of 8 and 15 picking up a spatula to compete in a hamburgergrilling competition. “Last year it was the first time, so this year it was dialed in. We supplied everything: grills, two patties of hamburger meat, grilling utensils, buns — typical condiments. They could bring their own condiments as well, but parents could not help.”

On the judging Forty-four teams competed this year, out of 48 that registered. With so many teams competing, that meant a lot of barbecue-tasting for the 48 judges, including me. Though I had taken a course designed to teach judges what to look for, I learned a lot from fellow judges

Walter Margetich from Morgan Hill and Linda Greer from Lake Balboa. The pair, who were competing as well, pointed out what meat was poorly cut, seemed underdone or seasoned well (Linda and I both agreed we liked the spicy ones). Walter also pointed out to this rookie judge — after we’d already gone through the first round (sorry, chicken category!) — that you shouldn’t be afraid to score high if you like it or fill out a comment card to help the teams improve. I did write two: One for a rib that failed the bite test — and was tough to tear into at all — and one for brisket that was clearly overdone, although the flavor was good. Thanks also to table captain Scott Kuklin, a certified master judge from Simi Valley who kept us entertained and on track — no easy task with check-ins every halfhour. When he spotted me scribbling away, he told me I could make the check out to him, then spelled his name. Lesson for next time — and there will be a next time: bring a cooler. While I wouldn’t be able to take it all home, nor would I want to, samples are yours to do with as you wish once judging is complete. I was able to get a spare Styrofoam container from organizers for my brisket, including a Flintstones-sized piece that took up two spots on my judging plate.

Coming Saturday

05.26.12 Inside The Californian

Bakersﬁeld’s premier city magazine is delivered on the last Saturday of every month. Inside this issue:

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’

Dining Divas

Join Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self and entertainment writer Matt Munoz this morning on “Californian Radio.” We’ll be chatting with the folks from On the Rocks Bar & Grill, a new restaurant and live music venue, which opens today. The guys will come bearing gift cards, which we’ll give away to a lucky listener. We’ll also give away two books: “Scribbles at an Exhibition: Baby Blues Scrapbook” and, for political junkies, “Scorpions for Breakfast,” the memoir of conservative Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer. Just listen for your cue to call for prizes: 842-KERN. “Californian Radio” airs from 9 to 10 a.m. on KERN-AM, 1180.

The Divas ventured to one of Bakersfield’s iconic eateries — Wool Growers — where you’re bound to see someone you know. Guess who they spotted?

Central Coast Wine & Travel Who doesn’t love wine and a day at the coast? Visit any of these 18 standout

wineries (some with local ties). Or closer to home, stop by local spots for a nice selection of fine wines. Cheers!

College-bound seniors With diplomas in hand, 20 collegebound seniors look to bright and promising futures. We share in their past achievements and upcoming goals.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 24, 2012

Eye Street Go & Do Today Bakersfield Blaze vs. San Jose Giants, 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. Fallen Heroes, wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, raffle, jazz music, patriotic art show, 5:30 to 7:30 pm., Cafe Med, 4809 Stockdale Highway. $50 advance; $60 at the door. Visit kernvets.org or 343-3333. Freedom Week A Military Blood Drive, donate blood and you can enter a trip for two, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Houchin Blood Bank, 5901 Truxtun Ave. 323-4222. Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. call 578-4570 or 3277507 for class details. League of Women Voters, annual meeting with Dr. Christopher Meyers, 5:45 p.m., The Petroleum Club, 12th floor, 5060 California Ave. $25 includes dinner; no charge for program only. Email patti.jepsen.ak8b@statefarm.com or 634-3773. SPCA Book Sale, daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today through Saturday; now through Saturday, near the old Michael’s store near East Hills Mall, 3501 Mall View Road Suite 113-114. bakersfieldspca.org or 323-8353. St. Jude Dream Home, open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, now through June 10, 13501 Da Vinci Drive. stjudedreamhome.org or 1800-385-9134. Taft Certified Farmers Market, 5 to 8 p.m., 5th St. Plaza, Taft. 765-2165. Bingo, warm ups start at 5 p.m., with early birds at 6 p.m., regular games at 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Center of Kern County, 2801 F St. From $20 buy-in to “the works”. 395-9787.

Friday 16th annual Standing Bear Powwow, Native American dancing, drumming, arts and crafts, food, demonstrations, 5 to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $6; children under 10 are free. 589-3181. Goldenaires Choir Spring Concert, 7 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, 900 Day Ave. Free; refreshments following concert. 871-0927. Kids Night Out “Father’s Day Surprise,” for ages 7 and up, pizza, dessert and a movie, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $25; $19 for additional siblings. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366. Morrissey, with special guest Kristeen Young, 8 p.m., Rabobank

Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12 (Monday $1). bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kaiser Permanente, 8800 Ming Ave. 877-524-7373. Memorial Day Program, honoring veterans, 9 a.m. Sunday, Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 East Bear Mountain Blvd., Arvin; and 10 a.m. Monday, South Kern Cemetery District, 15543 S. Vineland Road; Free. 867-2250 or 845-2540.

GO & DO

THEATER

CALIFORNIAN FILE

Flags were placed at Hillcrest Memorial Park by the Boy Scouts in honor of those who served in the military as part of a past Memorial Day celebration. Annual Memorial Day Celebration, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday, Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road. Free. 3665766. Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $39.50 to $79.50 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.

Saturday “A Night with Sentimental Journey,” deep pit beef dinner, 6 to 10 p.m., Minter Field Air Museum, 401 Vultee Ave., Shafter. $20 per person; 10 and under are free. Visit minterfieldairmuseum.com or 393-0291. “Dr. No” Cinema Saturday, begins at sundown, Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160. 864-0397. Barbecue Fundraiser, benefitting South Fork Preschool, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Masonic Lodge, 652 James Road, Kernville. $6 adults; $4 children 12 and under. 760-376-4400. Book Signing, with author and 2012 Presidential Candidate for President Dennis Andrew Ball of “America 2000: Foundations For Generations,” noon, Barnes & Noble, 4001 California Ave. For more visit online ball2012.net or 631-2575. Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays; 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays, Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706. 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. Electronic Waste Recycling Event, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Police Activities League, 301 E. 4th St. Free. Email nlagness@yahoo.com or 873-4011. Kids Free Day, last Saturday of every month, CALM, 10500 Alfred

Harrell Highway. 872-2256. Legend Inx’s Running Xrew Invite, fun run, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Panorama Park, 100 Westbluff Court. $35. Register online at legendinx.com, active.com, email legendinx@gmail.com or 368-2332. Movie Magic, learn how to make fake blood and fake scars, 10 a.m. to noon, Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $10 adults; $9 seniors/students (13-17); $8 students (6-12); $7 (3-5); children under 3 and members are free. 868-8425. Rider’s Ride and BBQ, registration 8 a.m.; kick stands up 9:30 a.m., H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection, 3101 N. Sillect Ave., Ste. 115. $25 to $35. 303-6341, 201-6649 or 331-9560. Ridge Route Run Car Show, with food, music, arts and crafts, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in downtown Frazier Park. $30 car entry fee. Free to attend. 245-0150. Shaquille O’Neal’s Allstar Comedy Jam, doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $40.50-$61. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Silver City Ghost 20th Anniversary, celebrating with “The Groat Family Wild West Show,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Silver City Ghost Town, 3829 Lake Isabella Boulevard, Bodfish. $5.50; $3.50 kids ages 6 to 12; free for kids under 5. 760-3795146. Star Party with Kern Astronomical Society, 8 to 10 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 487-2519.

Sunday Bakersfield Blaze vs. Inland Empire 66ers, 1:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday,

“Avenue Q,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15 general admission and $10 students and seniors; $25 reserved special seating. 327-PLAY. “Hotel Paradiso,” pre-show lecture at 7:15 p.m. (in the Albertson Room); 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. $10, $8 seniors/CSUB faculty and staff; $5 students with ID. For more information, call the Box Office at 6543150. “Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Bakersfield Community Theater, 2400 S. Chester Ave. $15 adults; $12 seniors/students/military. 831-8114. “The Last Romance,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $45 to $55; showonly tickets $35; matinee $45 to $50. 325-6100. “Trouts” The Musical, 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, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted. 327-PLAY. RAT: Royal Association of Thespians, present “The Silence of Clams,” 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-PLAY.

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. Beginning Drawing Class, for high schoolers, 5 to 7 p.m. Thurs-

day, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. $15 per session. 869-2320. 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 Classic Rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Sunday Snake Oil, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The Skybar Lounge, 4208 Rosedale Highway, 633-1116; No Limit, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday. Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Open Range Band, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday. T-Bones Steakhouse,, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; Tex Pistols, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

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

Country B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Tex Pistols, 9 p.m. Thursday. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Noah Claunch, 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 non-members. 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. Mavericks Singles, with music by Country George, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $7 member; $9 guest. 831-9241.

Thursday, May 24, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

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

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 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. 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. Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, 588-9463; 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Free. The Nile, Jazz Music, 6 p.m. every Sunday. Cost $10 at 1721 19th St. 364-2620.

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. 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., 8691451; 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays. Pizzeria, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 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 Dis-

trict Blvd., 398-1300; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays. 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 Playhouse Lounge, 7 to 10 p.m. every Sunday at 2915 Taft Highway. 397-3599. 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. The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. every Thursday. 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

Open Mic Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m. Wednesdays. $5.

Rock B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Riverboat Gamblers & Biters, 8 p.m. Friday. $10, all ages; UFC 143 and Members Only, 5 p.m. Saturday. $10. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday.

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 5/28 Annual Memorial Day Celebration, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road. Free. 366-5766. Linda Larma Academe of Dance Recital, doors open at 6:15 p.m., begins at 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $17. 3225200. Senior Discovery Days, for seniors 60 and older receive 50 percent off admission, 10 percent discount in the gift store; military personnel get in free w/proof of ID, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256. St. Jude Dream Home, open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, now through June 10, 13501 Da Vinci Drive. stjudedreamhome.org or 1800-385-9134.

Tuesday 5/29

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

Sierra Club Conditioning Hikes, three to five miles, 7 p.m., meet at corner of Highways 178 and 184. 872-2432 or 873-8107.

Music showcase

Wednesday 5/30

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

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.

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

Old school Jacalito Grill, 4803 Panama Lane, 8347-5834, Prisoners of Love, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday. 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.

Thursday 5/31 California Reads: Community Book Discussions, theme “Disaster & Democracy,” 1 to 2 p.m., CSUB, Walter Stiern Library, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. 6543231.

Friday 6/1 Art Laboe Freestyle Explosion, with Stevie B., Lisa Lisa, Debbie Deb, Shannon, Trinere and others, 8 p.m. Friday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $36.80 to $48.50. ticketmaster.com or 800745-3000.

TICKET ROUNDUP Bakersfield Fox Theater 2001 H St. vallitix.com or 322-5200. Saturday: Shaquille O’Neal’s Allstar Comedy Jam, doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., $40.50-$61. June 4-6: Linda Larma Academe of Dance Recital, doors open at 6:15 p.m., begins at 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, $17. June 19: Kris Kristofferson with Los Lobos, 8 p.m., $25$100. Aug. 11: Moonwalker: The Michael Jackson Concert Experience, 7:30 p.m., $34.50 to $74.50. Oct. 21: Josh Turner, 7:30 p.m., $30-$65.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. vallitix.com or call 3225200. June 14: Collin Raye, 7 p.m., 22.50-$30.50 plus fee. June 27: Desert Rose Band, 7 p.m., $35-$44 plus fee. Nov. 1: Colt Ford, 7 p.m., $26-$34 plus fee.

Kern County Fairgrounds 1142 S. P St. 833-4900. June 3: 14th annual Latin Food Festival & Menudo Cook-Off, with food booths, live entertainment, vendor booths, children’s entertainment, jalapeño-eating contest, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., $8 advance; $10 at the door; children 5 and under are free. 633-5495 or kchcc.org.

Rabobank Convention Center 1001 Truxtun Ave. ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000. Friday: Morrissey, with special guest Kristeen Young, 8 p.m., $39.50 to $79.50 plus fee. June 1: Art Laboe Freestyle Explosion, with Stevie B., Lisa Lisa, Debbie Deb, Shannon, Trinere and others, 8 p.m., $36.80 to $48.50. June 12-13: Sesame Street Live "Elmo Makes Music", 7 p.m. Tuesday; 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, $10-$33. June 28: Trace Adkins, 8 p.m., $41.35 to $62.25. July 7: Roller Derby for Heroes, 5 p.m., $18 plus fee. July 15: Demi Lovato, 7 p.m., $29.50 to $69.50 plus fee. July 17: Yanni, 7:30 p.m., $56.15 to $164.90. Oct. 18: Carrie Underwood, 7:30 p.m., $41.50 to $61.50 plus fee.