Eye Street Entertainment / 8-2-12 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

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

Index Union Cemetery guided tour .................. 22 Arts Alive .................................................. 23 15th annual Lowrider Nationals .............. 24 Play: As told by children.......................... 25 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 26 Guitar Masters at Bell Tower series........ 27 Rediscovering Bakersfield’s museums.. 30 Calendar .............................................. 32-33

In luck if you love Buck Joe Nichols headlines annual Owens party BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

oe Nichols has been given some career-enhancing advice over the years, but none has stuck with him quite as much as the pearl of wisdom he got from Buck Owens during a promotional stop in Bakersfield early in his career. Fresh faced, bushy-haired and eager to strut his stuff, Nichols said he was confident he had made an impression on Owens, who didn’t always have the time to visit with artists stopping by his KUZZ radio studio or Crystal Palace. “At one point he told me, ‘Boy, I sure like ya kid, but you gotta cut Owens that dang hair.’ And of course, on my next album, I had short hair,” laughed Nichols, 35, during a phone interview. “He later wrote me this long letter that said, ‘A lot of people have taken my advice and gone a lot of places in this business, and thank you for cuttin’ that hair.’ That album happened to be one of the bigger ones, too. He was just a great, fun guy who sure knew a lot about the business of country music.” Nichols will be savoring that and other memories of his mentor when he returns to the Crystal Palace on Aug. 16 to headline Buck’s Birthday Bash. Aug. 12 is the 83nd anniversary of Owens’ birth. Nichols also performed during the 2005 outdoor concert for the unveiling of life-size bronze statues of country legends like Owens, Merle Haggard and George Jones that now stand inside the Crystal Palace (though the highlight of the occasion, arguably, was when Garth Brooks got down on one knee and popped the question to then-girlfriend Trisha Yearwood). “That was one of the most amazing evenings of my life. It’s an honor to come back and headline another special occasion.” Though he has nine best-selling CDs under his belt and a string of hit singles like “Tequila

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOE NICHOLS

Country singer Joe Nichols headlines this month’s Buck Birthday Bash on Aug. 16.

Buck’s Birthday Bash with Joe Nichols When: 7 p.m. Aug. 16 Where: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Admission: $87 to $112 Information: 328-7560 or buckowens.com

Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” “Brokenheartsville” and “What’s a Guy Gotta Do,” Nichols has had a career of mixed blessings. After a public meltdown in 2005 that he said was the result of substance abuse, Nichols admitted himself to a treatment facility. Following his stay, he returned to work, recommitted to his family, work and a healthy lifestyle. It’s a journey reflected on his latest CD, “It’s All Good.” “I’ve found that even good days aren’t so bad and how truly blessed I am after all these years.

I’ve got a beautiful new baby girl and beautiful, tolerant, loving wife. Well, moderately tolerant,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve tried to stay on a path of getting into the gym regularly, and trying to keep fair food from killing me. I don’t wanna look like one of those guys who looks like they’ve been eating corn dogs for seven years solid.” His resilient attitude has allowed him to reflect on the changes happening in the industry. No longer the new kid on the block, he’s been able to listen much more objectively to what’s going on around him. “Country radio right now sure seems directionless. It’s more of a pop format now more than ever. I don’t think country music is in trouble, because it sells. I think it’s become more of a brand-less genre. To me, it feels like top-40, adult contemporary, and all similar genres. They’re all kind of merging together. One of the coolest things about country

music to me was always the identifiable nature of it. Years ago you knew when you were listening to a country music radio station. That’s why on soundtracks and movies they use a classic country song, they never use anything that’s currently being played. It has nothing to do with how good the music is; the problem is, it’s just hard to put a label on it now.” And that’s why Nichols continues to draw inspiration from Owens and other groundbreakers. “There are a lot of good young voices out there. The big mistake a lot of us make is: Go for radio and play what radio will play. That is a very middle-of-thepack-following mentality. Be a leader and do something unique; people will remember that about you and respect that about you. “The music of Buck Owens will live on forever because of that. He’s one of the biggest figures in the history of country music, and

he did it his way all the way from California.”

Buck Bashes Bakersfield may have been Buck’s home, but it’s not the only city that still reveres his music. Chicago, Phoenix and Nashville are among cities in the country that host their own annual Buck Bashes. But apart from the Crystal Palace, no venue throws a bigger celebration than Austin’s Continental Club, whose annual celebration of Owens predates even the Bakersfield shindig. This year marks the 21st annual event, which will be held on Aug. 12, Owens’ birthday. “I can’t remember what year it was, but Buck and I once chartered a jet with guitarist Jim Lauderdale, and surprised them in Austin one year at the Continental Club,” recalled Buckaroo keyboardist and band leader Jim Shaw. “The looks on the crowd when we walked in was really Please see BASH / 29

Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Time to start thinking of fair If you want to enter, get cracking now BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

o trip to the Kern County Fair is complete without a visit to the exhibit halls, displaying feats of culinary, collecting and other eclectic wonder. This year, instead of admiring others’ hard work, put your own on display by entering one of the hundreds of events at the fair. Although fair catalogs went out early last month, there’s still plenty of time to prepare for competition. “They can still enter everything,” said Patt Sandrini, the fair’s entry department supervisor. “We sent out our books around the first of July. That’s when we encourage people to start thinking about entering.” Events run the gamut from baked items to Beanie Baby collections, cut flowers to canned goods. If you produce something you’re proud of, there’s probably a place for you at the fair. “There are 10 to 15 contests,” including sponsored Spam, potato salad, ice cream and carrot cake contests, Sandrini said. But most competition takes place in judged events, which comprise 440 divisions, further divided into classes. “I’ve never thought about how many there are. We’re in the ballpark,” she said, referring to the number of events held at other comparable-sized fairs. Contestants range in age from senior citizens down to small children. To encourage young competitors, Sandrini said most children’s exhibits are judged by Danish rules. As opposed to American rules that require the designation of a top winner, Danish judging allows for many firstplace finishers, which helps recognize good work. “We judge them against themselves, to encourage them to enter. With ribbons, there is no limit set. We try not to limit the kids at all. We’re as lenient as possible.” Along with a flurry of ranking ribbons, junior events are also eligible — as are all fair exhibits — for the CEO ribbon, Sandrini said. A tradition that preceded retired top fair executive Bill Blair, whose special ribbon was black and orange for his Harley-Davidson, will be carried on by current CEO Michael Olcott. “He went to USC, so we’re going to use the USC colors, which are red and gold. It will be totally distinctive. That’s what we’re working on right now.”

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Scott, left and Chris Johnson helped carry and steady pumpkins during the weigh-in of the biggest pumpkins at the 2011 Kern County Fair. Lori Rogers, center, with Kern County weights and measures, officially weighed the pumpkins to declare a winner.

As for what will claim the coveted honor, that’s Olcott’s call. “It’s totally up to him. There are no criteria, no time frame. Whatever strikes his fancy.” What may catch his eye are a couple of new events under the 4-H division, open to the hundreds of Kern County youth in local clubs. Young bakers will take part in Harvest Hall Cupcake Wars, which Sandrini described as a “mini version of the ‘Cupcake Wars’ on TV.” Not a cook-off, children will bring themed treats, which can be from a box mix or made from scratch, with the option of presenting a dozen on a display stand. And kids shouldn’t put those beaters down if they want to take part in the other new 4-H dessert event. The contest, sponsored by Capistrano Roasting Co., challenges contestants to come up with a nonrefrigerated dessert using coffee.

Judge’s take Although this is the first year for the coffee dessert competition, the judging will be experienced, courtesy of longtime fair judge Char Hill. Judging assignments are made closer to the actual events, but Hill knows she’s got this one since her company is sponsoring it. Hill has judged local fair contests for about 10 years, teaming up with her mother, Pauline Best. “We wrote a cookbook. We know the criteria,” Hill said of the baked contests — including canned fruits and vegetables, breads and salsas — which comprise most of their assignments. Hill has some advice for brand-

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Sherrie Perez won first prize in the Albertsons Cake Mix Tricks Contest at last year’s Kern County Fair. Although there are 10 to 15 listed contests, there are hundreds of competitive events held at the fair each year, including a large variety of baked goods.

new competitors as well as seasoned contestants. First off, follow the rules. “The fair puts out a nice handbook. Do exactly what the rules say because that’s what we have to judge on. If the jar (in a canned good competition) is dirty or filled low, it affects the score.” With the 4-H events judged under the Danish style, following the rules usually leads to recognition. While looking through the rules, Hill recommends those considering competing choose the best class to suit the entry. For many events, she said, “there is a category for first-time entries.” And when you know the field is packed with contestants, consider your options. “If there are a lot of people competing in a category, alter the recipe and enter in another category.” To that end, Hill mentioned the variety of jellies competing under preserved foods. “Strawberry is common. Apricot, apricot-pineapple, grape, peach. Pomegranate is getting to be pretty common.” If you want to impress the judges, Hill recommended loganberry, boysenberry (a common local fruit that doesn’t often end

CATEGORY DEADLINES Aug. 10: Fine art, photography Aug. 17: Baked, decorative painting, hobby and models, needle art, preserved foods Aug. 24: Ceramics, creative arts, dolls, gems and minerals, mini structures Aug. 31: Agriculture/horticulture; author’s corner; communi-

up in jelly competitions) and kiwi. Hill said a jalapeno kiwi jelly at a past event definitely left an impression. In fact, thinking outside the box is crucial to make entries stand out. “Being creative is good because some of the most creative things draw our attention.” Hill recalled a hot yeast bread with a lemon cream cheese filling that grabbed the judges’ attention and led to a rookie judging mistake: “We ate too much of it.” Although the filling put the entry into the winner’s circle, the bread also excelled due to a key factor: temperature. “It was warm. We like warm bread. You bring warm bread to a judge, you have a good chance of placing.” Timing can be tricky, with

ty exhibits; environmental exhibits; 4-H, FHA and FFA; 4-H dog show; FFA ag projects; junior feature exhibits; wool fleece Entry prices vary. To register, visit the fairgrounds entry office, mail in your form or fill out online at kerncountyfair.com. For more information, call 833-4914.

baked items judged on the Saturday and Sunday before the fair starts. Hill said many make items on that Friday but should reconsider if they can. “If it’s fresh, it will make a big difference.” Along with avoiding mixing mishaps (Hill remembers biting into a cookie tasting of baking soda), focus on appearance and quality. “It may taste delicious, but if it doesn’t look good, it will lose some points. And make sure it is the best quality. The quality is what is going to make the flavor,” which is about half of the criteria. Amid all the cupcakes and cookies, Hill is hoping for one more C to make its way to the judges’ table this year. “We like cinnamon rolls, but we don’t see many of those because it takes effort.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

Eye Street

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Local history is reborn at Union Cemetery BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI

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raipsing around Union Cemetery might not be your idea of a hot time, but if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in local history, the final resting place on Potomac Avenue could be your ultimate destination. Bakersfield. Jewetta Avenue. Brundage Lane. Chester Avenue. Jastro Park. Those names werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just picked out of thin air; they belong to real people, the founders and pioneers of Kern County. And they are all buried at Union Cemetery, along with veterans of the Civil War, lawmen and gunslingers, farmers and business owners, grandparents and infants who settled, lived and died in what would become Bakersfield. Genealogist John Codd will be taking visitors through the â&#x20AC;&#x153;pioneer sectionsâ&#x20AC;? of Union Cemetery from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday in what is the first publicized guided tour of the park. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more history (in Bakersfield) than people realize,â&#x20AC;? Codd said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This was the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Old West.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Codd, who is associated with the Kern County Genealogical Society and Kern County Historical Society, has focused his research on the old, often forgotten burial sites that dot the county. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The small stuff that gets lost, the small sites, the lone graves,â&#x20AC;? Codd said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You get into these peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives.â&#x20AC;? Codd said this first tour will include the grave of city namesake Colonel Thomas Baker, the first person buried at Union Cemetery in 1872. Visitors will also see the grave of Captain Elisha Stephens, who led the first immigrant wagon train over the Sierra Nevadas (ahead of the ill-fated Donner party), and eventually settled in Bakersfield, where he died in 1887. Other famous graves include those of deputy sheriff William Tibbet (father of world-famous opera baritone Lawrence Tibbet), and outlaw James McKinney, both killed in the 1903 shootout at the Joss House at L and 22nd streets. Codd said visitors will view the gravesite of George Chester, Bakersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first postmaster, and the section of the cemetery dedicated to Civil War veterans â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Union and Confederate soldiers. Codd said his study of the graves showed that many residents died not only from violence but also epidemics, train wrecks and accidents â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all sorts of events that impacted the life of Bakersfield. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like notes left behind,â&#x20AC;? Codd said. Union Cemetery is a nonprofit memorial park and has been managed by the Union Cemetery Association since 1904. Operations manager Jose Leyva said the park has almost

CALIFORNIAN FILE

Tim Lemucchi, left, and John Codd tour Union Cemetery in 2010.

Union Cemetery guided tour When: 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday Where: Union Cemetery, 730 E. Potomac Ave. Admission: Free Information: 324-9648, or email info@UC1872.com

become a forgotten site over the decades, overshadowed by the advertising of the newer parks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a lot of heritage,â&#x20AC;? Leyva said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Of course, our pioneers are here, and we just want to let the town know weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still here.â&#x20AC;? Leyva said Union Cemetery has been conducting tours for some years, primarily for schools, but is experimenting with publicized tours, a revamped website, even recruiting volunteers to act as docents to establish the park as a historical site. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one thing that separates us from the other cemeteries,â&#x20AC;? said Leyva, who noted that the association is applying for status as a federal, state and county historical landmark. The association has even hired a marketing and public relations company, for what is described as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;rebrandingâ&#x20AC;? of the Union Cemetery name. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Union Cemetery has been around for 140 years,â&#x20AC;? said Dan Katz of LA Ads: A Marketing Company, located in Northridge. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are positioning the cemetery as a historical treasure of Bakersfield.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Union Cemetery felt it was impor-

PHOTO COURTESY KERN COUNTY MUSEUM

James McKinney, who along with deputy sheriff William Tibbet was killed in the 1903 shootout at the Joss House at L and 22nd streets, is buried at Union Cemetery.

tant to express the value of the cemetery, not only for burials but also as a historic destination for people to visit,â&#x20AC;? Katz said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you think of the builders and founders who are there, you think of (the cemetery) very differently,â&#x20AC;? Katz said. Codd, Leyva and Katz all said they hope to see a series of guided tours for the general public, dependent on the success of this one. One of the things to work out is how many visitors can be handled in a single tour. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People have to be able to see the gravesite,â&#x20AC;? Codd said.

Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

A river runs through his mind Artist captures Kern’s imagery on canvas

GO & DO Jim Bates exhibit

5 to 9 p.m. Friday BAA Art Center, 1817 Eye St. Admission: Free Information: 869-2320

he Kern River, a natural resource that’s close to the hearts of many people in our community, is the subject of many paintings in Jim Bates’ First Friday exhibit at the Art Center. I find Bates’ work notable for his ability to capture the various moods of the river as it flows down from the mountains, sometimes swift and roiling, other times deceptively calm and peaceful. A major part of the exhibit is a series of watercolor and oil paintings the Bakersfield native has been working on for the past few years. At present, the Kern River series is a work in progress. When completed, it will include 15 to 20 different views of the river from Gordon’s Ferry near Hart Park to the High Sierra. Most the artist’s work is highly realistic, and he enjoys the challenge of replicating nature in his paintings. He first photographs the scene, then returns to his studio to do the painting. For example “Still Water Runs Deep,” one of the newer pieces in the exhibit, depicts a popular site below the dam at Isabella Lake. “The photo was taken from the south side of the river probably one to two miles below the dam,” Bates said. “There was a campground where I took the photo, so it would be a place that would be recognized by a lot of people.” Another new painting, “Welcome to Kern River Canyon,” contrasts the linear rows of crops and orchards in the foreground with the rugged ridges of the foothills in the background. A panoramic piece, it is intersected by the path of Highway 178 as it winds its way eastward into the canyon. “Traveling around Kern County and observing the beauty that surrounds us, I am truly amazed at the number of paintings that I can visualize and want to be able to paint,” he said. “The lack of ideas is not a problem and I am enjoying being a full-time artist for the first time in my

‘Apple Core’ 5 to 9 p.m. Friday The Foundry, 1602 20th St. Admission: Free Information: 388-0278 PHOTO COURTESY OF JIM BATES

‘Funds for Families’ benefit

“Welcome to the Kern River Canyon,” above, and “Still Water Runs Deep,” below, by local artist Jim Bates, will be featured for First Friday at the Bakersfield Art Association’s Art Center.

Dinner, 6 p.m., show 7 p.m. Saturday Stars Restaurant Theater, 1930 Chester Ave. Admission: $100 Information: 325-6100

Robert MacNeil, a Shafter native who now lives in Los Angeles. “I am going to be singing (if you can call what I do singing) and I have a few moves!,” Harrison said in an email. “It will be a lot of fun, and the administration and cast of Stars MacNeil are amazing to donate their times and talents.” The priest also explained the origin of Funds for Families and how the show came to be. “Judge Collette Humphrey’s daughter battled cancer and beat it and knowing how much a family had to go through, she and her husband, Kyle, started a fund to help families in Kern County that have to deal with catastrophic and cancer-related illness,” he said. “The fund has grown and we have helped a number of families. Collette has been involved with Stars and is a supporter and so am I, and when they heard we were trying to raise some funds, Stars volunteered to help and the event was born.” Since the cost of the event is being paid for by several underwriters, Harrison said all proceeds — 100 percent of the ticket price — will be given to the fund. The organization provides money to help a family in various ways, such as transportation to doctors, out-of-town hotel stays, medicine and related needs. Bruce Saathoff, Stars artistic director, said the show will feature a number of Broadway songs. Others scheduled to perform are Frank Sierra, Amber O’Reilly, Bethany Rowlee, Erika Kern, Jennifer Prow, Ali Dougherty, Adam Rateliff and Kevin Trueblood. Mark Price is master of ceremonies.

life.” Bates, who majored in art and history at Fresno State, spent 35 years in the field of education and served as district superintendent in Lamont at the time of his retirement. His work has appeared at the Bakersfield Museum of Art as part of The Californian’s annual Eye Gallery series, and he was the featured artist in the Wasco Rose Festival. Recently, three of his original watercolors of the Kern Canyon were purchased by the Kaiser Permanente Foundation for its pediatrics facility. Bates’ show includes a number of finely detailed drawings of historic ruins reflecting his recent travels to Spain and Portugal. The exhibit can be seen at the gallery, which is sponsored by the Bakersfield Art Association, through Aug. 31.

Benefit show at Stars A special $100-per-person dinner and show at Stars on Saturday will benefit a local charity called Funds for Families, which helps people who are dealing with serious illnesses. Monsignor Craig Harrison of Harrison St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church is one of the chief organizers and will be a member of the cast, along with internationally known tenor

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

Solo show at The Foundry Iconic images and symbols

mean different things to different people. And Chad Dupraw’s First Friday solo show at The Foundry represents his idea of sin in American Society. His compositions are complex and incorporate a number of elements, ranging from serpents and skeletons, to apples hanging from a tree. One called “American Bald Eagle,” for instance, shows the skull of an eagle superimposed over an American flag. In its prominent beak, the bird holds a scrap of paper with the phrase “We the people,” the words at the beginning of the United States Constitution. Christina Sweet, director of The

Foundry, supplied this statement from the artist. “I've always thought in a visual manner, whether it’s a logical process, or an emotional one,” Dupraw says. “My ideas and thought process are laden with connectivity through imagery. I think this is why I'm drawn to religious and tattoo art; they are filled with imagery that tell stories, show devotion, display belonging and express ideals, all without the heavy use of words. Thought process through imagery.” Following the opening reception Friday evening, the exhibit can be seen by appointment through Aug. 29.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

Eye Street

Low and slow is way to go Lovers of lowriders gather for car show at the fairgrounds BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

he Lowrider Nationals is a Bakersfield urban car culture classic that’s celebrating a major milestone Sunday with a very big 15th birthday — being touted as “La Quinceanera.” “This is a really important year,” said Rick Munoz, producer and director of the event, which he has watched grow from a baby. “La Quinceanera is a big part of our Latino culture and heritage. And this year is the first year that we will be sanctioned by Lowrider Magazine. So it's perfect.” Lowrider Magazine is one of the premier publications for fans of urban car culture. It graces the shelves of convenience stores from coast to coast and is a staple in the garage of any lowrider enthusiast. For Munoz it’s an opportunity to put Kern County’s gear-heads on the map. “Now we are one of their car tour stops. So you have to come to Bakersfield to win points for the magazine’s big show in Las Vegas in the fall.” The Lowrider Super Show is held every October in Sin City and is the car season’s grand finale, with big prizes and steep competition. Car builders will travel hundreds of miles to compete for the top awards but before many of

“We want to support this show, and Bakersfield car clubs are big supporters of our events. We all have to come together to keep this sport alive.” — Joe Ray, editor of Lowrider Magazine

them get that far, they’ll make an appearance at the fairgrounds for points that will get them closer to the goal. And though out-of-towners are expected to bring stiff competition, local builders can more than hold their own, said Joe Ray, editor of Lowrider Magazine. “The dedication that people in Bakersfield have for lowriders matches the dedication seen around the country. I remember going out there as far back as the ’80s, and the people always are very welcoming, and they have put on some winning shows.” Perfectly exemplifying what local car enthusiasts have to offer is Junior Gonzalez, a car show veteran who has been building cars for decades, going all the way back to his teens in McFarland. This Sunday he’ll be showing his 1957 Chevy Bel Air, a car he has owned and lovingly restored over 20 years. “Doing all of this stuff to a car costs money, so I would just

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Junior Gonzalez with his immaculate 1957 Chevy Bel Air is ready for the Lowrider Nationals.

15th Annual Lowrider Nationals When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 P St. Admission: $17, advance; $20 day of; $7 for children 7 to 11; free for children under 6; tickets can be purchased in advance at www.lowridernationals.com or at 7-Eleven and Fastrip stores

throw $20 or $40 or $50 in the bank every week. At the end of the summer I’d have $900 or $1,000 saved up and I’d think to myself, ‘What am I going to do?’” He's been showing the baby blue and pearl Chevy for years, long before he was able to add the bumper-to-bumper chrome, engraving and pin-striping. Gon-

zalez’s ultimate goal was to be showcased in Lowrider Magazine, and he knew it would be a dream that could take years to achieve. “I would take (the car) out and ask people what should I do, what should I add? I would talk to judges and see what they’d say, then I would work on it in the off season.” Eventually Gonzalez’s Bel Air caught the eye of a Lowrider Magazine photographer. When Gonzalez asked him who to talk to about getting a photo shoot, the photographer told him he was talking to the right man. “He called me up a couple of weeks later and I took it over to a neighborhood by South High School, and that’s where they took the pictures,” said Munoz about the shoot that led to his car being featured in the magazine, about three years ago. “It was hard but it was worth it;

it’s what I had been working for." Lowriders won’t be the only heavy machinery on display during the event. The 15th Annual Lowrider Nationals caters to import car owners, bicycles, motorcycles, trucks, SUVs and more. Entertainment includes the Hot Model Contest, Hopper Contest and a concert by hip-hop veteran Warren G. Vendors offering everything from clothing and jewelry to the latest car accessories will be on hand, and kids are welcome. One participant already signed up, with engine revving, is Lowrider Magazine’s Ray. “You have to pour your heart and soul into these shows. It’s the only way they still exist,” he said. “We want to support this show, and Bakersfield car clubs are big supporters of our events. We all have to come together to keep this sport alive.”

Film shot in town gets red-carpet treatment BY NICK BELARDES Contributing writer

Trailers for “The Lackey,” a grindhouse throwback filmed almost entirely in Bakersfield, have been generating buzz among local YouTubers for months. And now other film fans can get in on the excitement at a screening of the film Friday at the Fox Theater. Though not rated, filmmakers say the movie falls into the R category for its graphic violence, fight scenes and brief nudity. IMDB.com offers this synopsis: “Jude St. Clere discovers he has a daughter by his junkie ex-girlfriend. He vows to take care of her and leave his shadowed past behind him. Completely broke and with his daughter starving, he reluctantly takes on one last job which quickly entwines him dead smack in the middle of a bloody mob war. Knowing that his

‘The Lackey’ film premiere When: Red carpet arrival starts and doors open at 7 p.m., film at 8 p.m. Friday Where: Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Admission: $10, advance; $12 at the door Information: 324-1369 or vallitix.com

chances of making it out alive are slim, he plunges in guns blazing — because sometimes the only way out is to go all in.” The movie, portions of which were filmed in Old Town Kern, downtown alleyways and Sandrini’s underground bar on 20th and Eye streets, features local and Southland talent. Hollywood and Australian movie star

Vernon Wells, whose credits include the red-mohawked villain in “Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior” (1981), plays a villain named Mr. Dechlan. “They did a great job, made a really great movie. It all comes down to the people you’re working with and their attitude. It’s got to be a combination of everything. When we shot ‘Mad Max,’ everybody was so bloody enthusiastic. They wanted to make it. ‘The Lackey’ was the same. Everybody wanted to be there. That carries into the product.” Starring as downtrodden gangster Jude St. Clere is Hollywood videogame actor Shaun Piccinino, who directed and cowrote the movie. Piccinino said the movie is being shown at the SoCal Film Festival in Huntington Beach in September. “I think it’s the action and the grittiness to it” that appealed to festival organizers,

Piccinino said. The film also features Rickey Bird of Hectic Films in Bakersfield. “This has been my dream since I’ve started Hectic Films around 2002. We’re closing the gap between Hollywood and Bakersfield,” he said. Bird plays Sonny Fingers, one of many thugs in the film. “He was written for me by Shaun (Piccinino). He said I reminded him of some guy who could get out of any sticky situation. “It will definitely be a moment for local film history,” Bird said. Bird said the first 100 moviegoers can expect free posters, as well as Hectic Films movie trailers for “Border Brothers,” “Home Free: The Movie,” and “Phase Two.” — Bakersfield writer Nick Belardes has a cameo in “The Lackey”

Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Through the eyes of youth Migrant experience is focus of play BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer gavinarts@aol.com

“Flor,” a unique bilingual play that tells the story of migrants past and present through the eyes of children, opens this evening at Arvin High School. Eight months in the making, it is based on experiences of current residents of Arvin, Lamont and Bakersfield — those who were called Okies when they first came here, starting during the Dust Bowl days of the 1930s, and migrant workers who came from Mexico in more recent years. A production of Cornerstone Theater Company of Los Angeles, the cast of 38 includes both professional actors and local residents. “It’s told in the voices of young people in two different time periods — and how they are similar and different,” said Will MacAdams, who wrote the play after meeting with and listening to the personal stories of residents. One of those he spoke with is Monica Martinez, 22. Later, when

The play follows the path of a mysterious traveler named Flor who appears in a field of California wildflowers overlooking the land immortalized by Steinbeck’s “Grapes of Wrath.” As generations of migrants from the Dust Bowl to the present day appear beside her, a story about the community’s deep-rooted history emerges. the director Mark Valdez chose the cast, she was given the part of a shy teenager named Marta. “She (Marta) holds her feelings inside,” Martinez said in describing her character. “When a boy in her class starts yelling about ‘you illegals’ — telling them to ‘get out of here’ — she runs out of the classroom.” Marta, she explained, is in the country illegally and doesn’t want to bring attention to herself.

SHELBY MACK / THE CALIFORNIAN

Penny Hernandez-Perez, center, rehearses for the play “Flor” at Arvin High School Auditorium. Hernandez-Perez is an Arvin resident and this is the first time she has been in a play.

‘Flor’ When: 8:30 p.m. this evening, Friday and Saturday Where: Arvin High School Auditorium, 900 Varsity Drive in Arvin Admission: Free; donations welcome Information: 800-578-1335

Eventually, her character evolves into a person who has more confidence in her ability to express herself.

Martinez, who now attends Cal State Bakersfield, came to Arvin from Mexico with her mother and brother when she was 2. “My dad came here in the ’80s,” she said. “When he got the papers and everything, he sent for us. That was in 1992. To this day, they still work in the fields, but they never wanted us to.” Martinez feels lucky to be in the play and is pleased about what Cornerstone has accomplished in the time it’s been in Arvin. “To see things presented in

such a positive way, to look at others not as different but to look at the way we are,” she said. “It makes me very excited, and I think it’s going to be a blast.” “Flor” is a production that Cornerstone refers to as a community-collaborative play. Nine years ago the nonprofit company worked with residents of Lost Hills in producing a similar type of play. “The people in Lost Hills, and at the Arts Council (of Kern), too, were so warm and welcoming Please see FLOR / 28

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

It’s not punk — it’s ‘newgrass’ Hip-hop duo brings beats to Bakersfield

s much of a music geek as I am, there’s always a chance I may show up a little late to the party. Blame my tardiness on the musician in me, but once I do get around to arriving, bet on me to be one of the more wildly enthusiastic guests, dancing on your sofa when my favorite tune comes on. Kind of like my mood when I discovered for the first time San Fernando-based alternative bluegrass riot starters Old Man Markley. The band describes itself on its website as “what would happen if Social Distortion’s Mike Ness woke up drunk in a bed with the guys in Old Crow Medicine Show and decided to just make a record rather than do the walk of shame.” It’s a fitting description for the seven-piece group with deep Southern California punk rock ties, whose roots are displayed clearly on their latest release, “Guts n’ Teeth.” The band appears Friday at B Ryder’s. “There were a few bands involved prior to this collaboration,” said lead vocalist John Carey during a phone call from a recent tour stop. “Most of us were in the punk scene. When we had this idea to start Old Man Markley, we weren’t really doing anything.” Old Man Markley could be an American cousin to the Irish sounds of The Pogues and Flogging Molly. In the

case of OMM, much of the instrumentation is the same, but with a true bluegrass influence. Formed in late 2007, the original 11-piece group played its memorable first show the following year at a bar in Pasadena called the Old Towne Pub to a near-riotous crowd and since then has continued carrying the torch for a sound known as “newgrass.” “When we first came out we’re sure people probably thought, ‘Oh, here we go, another Flogging Molly,’ because they see the fiddle and banjo. People didn’t know what to make of us really. What I love about bluegrass is it’s so focused on amazing singers. I started listening to Old Crow Medicine Show and Devil Makes Three, and coming from punk rock, I was really able to identify to this music. To me it was so similar, yet different at the same time.” Joining Carey is Annie DeTemple, autoharp; Jeff Fuller, drums; Joey Garibaldi, bass; Ryan Markley, washboard; John Rosen, banjo; and Katie Weed, fiddle. I’ve only had a day to absorb a portion of Old Man Markley’s music, but if my initial reaction is any indication, you’ll be hearing me rave about this group for a while. “We have a lot of energy onstage and the kids usually get drawn in right away. They can feel if it’s not legit and sincere. I like seeing their reactions when we bring out the washtub bass.” Friday’s show is all-ages. Admission is $10. Showtime is 8 p.m. Also appearing is Danny Garone and friends, plus Kenny Reeves and The Clones. B Ryder’s is located at 7401 White Lane. 397-7304.

Beatnuts at Jerry’s On Saturday night, underground rap duo The Beatnuts

PHOTO COURTESY OF PHILIP AUSTIN

Members of alternative bluegrass rockers Old Man Markley appear Friday at B Ryder’s.

returns to Bakersfield, this time in the downstairs crawlspace of the Jerry’s Pizza basement. Members Jerry “Juju” Tineo and Lester “Psycho Les” Fernandez grew up in different communities in Queens, N.Y., rocking underground parties in the mid’80s. Their style was in line with many of the street sounds of the day: sample-heavy grooves taken from vintage jazz and funk records. Hip-hop music was heading into wide-open territory with socially conscious themes in the music just before the gangster rap takeover in the decade to follow. According to their bio, while searching for vintage vinyl, both Tineo and Fernandez ran into hip-hop godfather Afrika Bambaataa, credited for putting New York on the music map with the

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.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BEATNUTS

New York underground hip-hop duo The Beatnuts appear at Jerry’s Pizza on Saturday.

breakdance anthem, “Planet Rock.” Bambaataa took them under his wing, introducing them to the Native Tongues music collective that featured members of rap groups De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest and the Jungle

Brothers. At that time, the two were DJing parties under the alias Beat Kings. The Jungle Brothers claimed that they were “not kings, but rather two nuts” for their comical nature and the fact Please see LOWDOWN / 29

Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Bell Tower rings up guitar-master shows BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

he historic Bakersfield Bell Tower Club downtown will be showcasing the building’s pristine acoustics when it hosts a trio of intimate concerts. Titled Guitar Masters at the Bell Tower, the summer-to-fall music series will feature acclaimed guitarists Peppino D’Agostino, Doyle Dykes and Laurence Juber. The Bakersfield series opens Aug. 9 with D’Agostino. Bakersfield promoter and show organizer Rick Kreiser said he was inspired to produce the shows after seeing Juber last year at a house concert down south. “I heard about these house concerts with about 30 to 40 people in a person’s living room or backyard, and that’s exactly what it was,” said Kreiser, president of Carney’s Business Technology. “When I got to the location, it was a little tract home in Thousand Oaks.” Following the show, Kreiser said he contacted Juber and asked about the possibility of bringing a similar type of event to Bakersfield. “I don’t have a living room like (the hosts in Thousand Oaks), but I probably knew more people that may enjoy this type of presentation. I always support local events like the jazz festival and blues festival, so why not add something like this to the list?” Kreiser stumbled on the Bell Tower Club and after a successful pitch to management, scheduled his first show last fall, featuring Juber, which attracted 135 paid attendees. “The Bell Tower was all over it,” he said. “It was a unique situation for them since they’re normally only open to members at lunch. There’s very little overhead involved. They dress up the place, set up the chairs and handle the food. I provide the sound, dim the lights, do a little intro and off we go.” Bell Tower general manager Amy Lewis said the restaurant is always open to new ideas about how to bring attention to the venue. “I’m willing to try everything once, and it’s really nice to offer something new. We have weddings and special receptions all year long. The shows are really intimate, very entertaining. Rick has done a great job.” All shows are $30, which includes heavy gourmet appetizers and desserts provided by the Bell Tower, a no-host bar, and two generous sets of music with a break. No pre-sale tickets or reservations are involved, and all shows are open to the public. Limited seating is theater-style, at a capacity of 160. “If we sold tickets, it changes the

PHOTO BY JONATHAN BERKOMPAS

Peppino D’Agostino, hailed as one of the best multi-dimensional guitarists in world music, appears Aug. 9 in the Guitar Masters at the Bell Tower series.

Guitar Masters at the Bell Tower series Aug. 9: Peppino D’Agostino Sept. 20: Doyle Dykes Oct. 25: Laurence Juber Doors for all shows open at 6:30 p.m. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Where: Bell Tower, 1200 Truxtun Ave. (Truxtun & L Streets) Admission: $30 includes heavy appetizers, dessert, no host bar. Information and reservations: 204-7685

whole economics of the event. This is purely to offer something different to people that I happen to know, and people that like music. In keeping with the house concert concept, I make no money from these shows. All door revenue goes towards the artists with the exception of a small fee to cover use of the facilities. Another nice thing is there’s never an entourage. It’s just the artist.” First up, on Aug. 9, is D’Agostino, hailed as one of the best multidimensional guitarists in world music. D’Agostino’s blend of Brazilian, Irish, country, blues, ragtime, and classical styles have taken him around the globe. Often described as a master of the “fingerstyle” technique, his highly technical methods include hammering on and pulling off with the guitar fretting hand, and using the body of the guitar percussively. Over the course of his career, D’Agostino has released eight critically acclaimed solo albums and instructional guitar books and videos. D’Agostino is a featured guitarist in the United Guitar Ensemble, a group

composed of seven of the world’s top classical guitarists and D’Agostino on steel string. On Sept. 20 the series continues with American acoustic artist Doyle Dykes. Cited along with guitarists like Australia’s Tommy Emmanuel as among the best finger-style guitarists in the world, he also is known for his capability of playing proficiently with a wide range of different guitar tunings. Dykes has released eight fulllength albums. Among some of his best-known works and inspirational interpretations are “Wabash Canonball,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” and “Amazing Grace.” In 2011 he also released “The Lights of Marfa,” a semi-autobiographical book documenting his spiritual travels as a devout Baptist. Rounding out the trio of shows will be Laurence Juber, who returns Oct. 25. As a young working musician in London in the 1970s, Juber got an lifechanging break when Paul McCartney handpicked him to become the lead guitarist for Wings in 1978. Juber’s playing can be heard on the group’s final album “Back to the Egg,” a performance that also earned him a Grammy for the instrumental single, “Rockestra Theme.” After Wings folded in 1981, Juber embarked on a career as a solo artist, composer and arranger, and developed a reputation as a guitar virtuoso, voted No. 1 by Fingerstyle Guitar magazine. He has released 20 solo albums and has been heard on numerous TV and film soundtracks. “I do this to just look out over the audience and make my friends smile,” said Kreiser. “These guys aren’t household names, but you look at some of the players they’ve played with, it’s just phenomenal. I’d like to continue this series.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

Eye Street FLOR: CONTINUED FROM 25

when we were here before, we wanted to return,” said Ann-Sophie Morrissette, spokeswoman for the company. The current production, however, is focused strictly on the Arvin-LamontWeedpatch area. It follows the path of a mysterious traveler named Flor who appears in a field of California wildflowers overlooking the land immortalized by Steinbeck’s “Grapes of Wrath.” As generations of migrants from the Dust Bowl to the present day appear beside her, a story about the community’s deep-rooted history emerges. MacAdams, who is based in New York City, said he is somewhat familiar with farming communities, having recently written plays related to farms in upstate New York. But until now he’s never been in Kern County. “All I knew about it was ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ and the UFW (United Farmer Workers),” he said in a recent phone conversation. Since coming to Arvin and living there for several months, he’s learned a lot from people he’s visited, including Jim Young, retired chancellor of Kern Community College District, and others who grew up in the area. “Jim Young was very involved and he’s a friend of the production,” MacAdams said. “He and a group of men who have known one another since childhood were helpful in answering questions about historical accuracy.” MacAdams’ interaction with both Dust Bowl migrants and people who originally came from Mexico has left him with some

strong impressions that informed his scriptwriting. “The pride of both groups and their sacrifices — and the love of family — are the core thread of the play,” he said. “My whole lens is on the eyes of the children.” Although “Flor” is not a musical, sequences that emphasize the presence of the wind, an important element in the play, are enhanced with music. In fact there’s even a character called The Wind. “There are no songs, per se, but I wrote the words spoken by The Wind, which is set to music and dance, and is lyrical,” MacAdams said. “The music for it was written by John Nobori, who is the sound designer. Jeanette Flores is the choreographer.” Compared to most local shows, “Flor” has a short running time of a little over an hour — 75 minutes to be specific. It also has what some consider a late starting time, 8:30 p.m. But MacAdams said that was done intentionally because it’s expected that many of those who attend will be field workers, who work late. Arvin resident Gabriel Garcia, a recent graduate of CSUB, is the assistant director. He is a student in a program called the Cornerstone Theater Institute Summer Residency, now in its ninth year. Each summer Cornerstone creates a play with a different California community by living within that community for approximately four weeks, according to Morrissette. She also said “Flor” was produced with assistance from Arvin High School, the City of Arvin and South Kern Sol, a publication staffed by youths

SHELBY MACK / THE CALIFORNIAN

Sheila McClure, a former Arvin drama teacher, rehearses a scene in “Flor” with Peter Howard, an ensemble member of the Conerstone Institute. The cast members consist of Cornerstone students and members as well as residents of Arvin.

between the ages of 14 to 24 from the areas of Greenfield, Arvin, Lamont and Weedpatch. Cornerstone Theater Company is a multi-ethnic, ensemble-based theater company, according to a press release. It commissions and produces new plays,

which combine the artistry of professional and community collaborators. By making theater with and for people of many ages, cultures and levels of theatrical experience, Cornerstone builds bridges between and within diverse communities in Los Angeles and other parts of the country.

Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street LOWDOWN: CONTINUED FROM 26

Jackson brother calls for peace Family’s feud has spilled into public eye BY ANTHONY MCCARTNEY AP Entertainment Writer

Jermaine Jackson called Wednesday for an end to the feud that has embroiled his family for more than a week, saying issues over the care of his mother and with late brother Michael’s estate should be handled privately. Jackson wrote in a statement first released to The Associated Press that he regrets the public turmoil that resulted from his mother Katherine’s 10-day trip to an Arizona spa. The trip sparked a missing person’s report and a driveway confrontation between relatives at the home of Katherine Jackson before a judge stripped her of guardianship duties. “Mistakes have been made and irrational things have been said on both sides in a highly charged emotional environment,” Jermaine Jackson wrote. “It is time for us all to draw a line in the sand and move towards peace, co-operation, love and healing.” The Jackson family is still

raw from the death of the pop superstar three years ago, Jermaine Jackson wrote, and his mother has endured incredible stress and pressures since then. He said he remains concerned about his brother’s estate but is dropping support for a letter leaked two weeks ago that called on executors of the estate to resign. Jermaine Jackson said his statement was prompted after his son asked if he could no longer visit Katherine Jackson at her suburban Calabasas home. “After much soul-searching, it is clearly time for us to live by Michael’s words about love not war,” he wrote. At the request of an attorney for TJ Jackson, temporary guardian of Michael Jackson’s children, the estate has acknowledged it has blocked certain relatives from visiting the home. The family members were not named. Attorneys are still trying to untangle some of the issues that the family dispute has created. Katherine Jackson’s attorney Perry Sanders Jr. said attorneys will return to court today to

BASH: CONTINUED FROM 20

something. Austin is just chock-full of musicians. Everyone shows up, does one Buck song onstage and just keep going.” For Bakersfield’s Aug. 16 celebration, Shaw will be joined onstage at the Crystal Palace by Owens’ sons Buddy and John, guitarists Monty Byrom and Chuck Seaton, drummer Dave Wulfekuehler, vocalists Kim McAbee and Jennifer Keel, and bassist Billy Haynes. Performing together and in different variations, they’ll kick off the evening with many of Owens’ most beloved tunes. “We’re not reinventing the wheel; everyone comes out to hear the classics and enjoy themselves, then we hand it over to our special guests,” Shaw said. Noticeably absent will be the signature steel guitar sound of Buckaroo Terry Christoffersen, who left the group last year. Shaw, who stays in touch with Christoffersen, said the group has never been able to find a full-time replacement. “Terry’s doing all right. We’ve been friends since we were teenagers. The last time we played was the Jim Burke Ford picnic a few months ago. The steel guitar is a very complex and difficult instrument, and as far as I know there isn’t anyone in Bakersfield that can play it the way we need it.” Meanwhile, Shaw said there’s been talk

ZUMA PRESS

Michael Jackson’s children, from left, Blanket, Paris and Prince, are seen with the grandmother Katherine at an appearance in January.

present an agreement to restore his client as a guardian. The agreement would also call for TJ Jackson to remain a co-guardian, with control over the staff and day-to-day operations of the home where Katherine Jackson and her grandchildren Prince, Paris and Blanket currently live. Sanders has said the arrangement will allow Katherine Jackson to focus on the children’s upbringing and not on other financial or logistics issues. The co-guardianship arrangement would also allow either Katherine Jackson, 82, or TJ Jackson, 34, to serve as sole guardian if the other were no longer able to serve. Jermaine Jackson’s statement offers a detailed account of why he, brother

of expanding the Owens celebration from a concert into a daylong community event, but once the reality check of summer heat sets in, they’d much rather stay inside. “We’ve always thought about having another parking lot event like we did when we unveiled the statues, but it is in August and really hot. It could be a killer day. For now, we’ll probably keep it in the club, where Buck always held court for his birthday.” Guitarist Byrom is looking forward to carrying on the tradition with Shaw and the Owens family with some added twists brought to the stage by Haynes, who’s also well-versed in funk and jazz bass style. Together with Seaton’s unique guitar sound, Byrom anticipates a tribute unlike no other. “It’s gonna be a little crazier this year, because I’m pushing the boundaries of this group. I do miss Doyle (Curtsinger on bass) and Terry Christoffersen, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard Jim sound better. Those guys are his friends for life, but a little new blood and kick in the butt is good for you. Buck just didn’t listen to country. He was into The Beatles, Ray Charles, Creedence Clearwater Revival. He influenced not just country music, but all kinds of rock and roll artists.” Also appearing will be country newcomer Jon Pardi.

Randy and sisters Janet and Rebbie felt it was necessary to isolate their mother. “We simply worried that a call home would first entail, or lead to, conversations with individuals we are in dispute with and that would, therefore, increase pressure on Mother — and pressure was what a doctor said she didn’t need,” he wrote. He said by the time of the confrontation on July 23, “it was clear that mutual suspicions had allowed events to spiral out of control.”

that they were crazy enough to carry hundreds of records to every show they played. Soon their name changed to Beatnuts, and it stuck. Over the years they began producing and became known for their remixing, working with the likes of Mos Def, Cypress Hill and a host of others. They’re revered in hip-hop circles as Latino rap pioneers, but also as one of the few lasting groups that has never stopped working and representing their brand of hardcore rap and inyour-face performance style. Much of their musical catalog has been used by a host of singers over the years, including on Jennifer Lopez’s “Jenny from the Block,” that features a sample of The Beatnuts’ 1999 hit, “Watch Out Now,” as the song’s foundation. I have to tip my hat to Bakersfield promoter Chuck “Tha Butcher” Arias, who has been hitting the pavement, passing out promo compilations to hype the show for over a month. Packaged in both jewel cases and slip covers, the 10track CD also comes with a flier about the show. It’s rare you see this type of dedicated street promotion rather than the usual Facebook invite, and very much in the original spirit of hip-hop culture. Saturday’s all-ages show starts at 9 p.m. Admission is $15 pre-sale and $25 at the door. Also appearing is Gob Goblin. Jerry’s Pizza is located at 1817 Chester Ave. 6331000. Highly recommended.

ZZ Top sells out Fox If you’ve been procrastinating about buying tickets to see legendary Texas-rock trio ZZ Top at the Fox on Aug. 14, you’re out of luck. According to the Fox Theater, the show sold out almost as quickly as it was announced, with only a few final seats released for ZZ Top fan club members this earlier this week. There’s always a chance the Fox may release any unsold seats to the public on the day of the show. For inquiries, call the Fox box office at 324-1369.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 2, 2012

Eye Street

Culture, history on the cheap Museums band together for August admission break BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer gavinarts@aol.com

f you love clipping coupons, four local museums are offering one that may be just what you need to make the dog days of August more inviting. The invitation comes in the form of a buy-one-get-one free coupon good for adult admissions — except for special events from now through Aug. 31. It’s called the Re-Discovery of Bakersfield’s Major Attractions and it can be downloaded from the website of each participating organization: Bakersfield Museum of Art, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, California Living Museum (CALM), and the Kern County Museum. Representatives of all four museums got together at a brainstorming session and decided to collaborate on the coupon idea. All are candid about saying that August is one of the slowest months of the year attendance-wise, and they would like to see more visitors. “There’s a lot to discover and sometimes rediscover in Bakersfield,” said Jason Gutierrez of the art museum. “These four organizations each have something different to offer visually but have a united mission to inspire and educate the communi-

Re-Discovery of Bakersfield’s Major Attractions All four museums in the Bakersfield area are offering special events and programs during August. In addition to downloading the free coupon, you can keep current with what’s going on at each one and get information about hours of opening, log on to each organization’s website. Bakersfield Museum of Art: bmoa.org Buena Vista Museum of Natural History: sharktoothhill.org CALM: calmzoo.org Kern County Museum: kcmuseum.org

ty.” Kern residents shouldn’t feel like they have to leave the area for a fun and educational experience, he added, when they have an art museum, a zoo, a natural history museum, and a general history museum right in their backyard. At least two — CALM and Buena Vista Natural History Museum — have new exhibits to pique visitors’ interest. “Our shorebird exhibit is new (opened in late spring) and it was built by the staff and dedicated volunteers,” said Lana Fain, zoo manager at CALM. “It has really turned out to be quite lovely and so peaceful. It is located next to the waterfowl pond.” About 10 days ago, a great blue heron, a

PHOTO COURTESY OF KORAL HANCHARIK

California's Changing Water is on display at the Buena Vista Natural History Museum.

black crowned night heron and coots were added about to the species that already inhabit the area, which include a great egret, a pelican, a Canada goose and several mallards “By mid-August, we should have our bighorn sheep exhibit open with three ewes and one ram,” she said. “CALM has never exhibited this species and we are quite excited.” Fain also reported an upsurge in attendance for the 2011-12 fiscal year, which ended June 30. The total figure was 126,549, which she estimates is an increase of about 6,000 over the previous year. Koral Hancharik, director of the Buena Vista museum, is excited about two muse-

um-related events coming up soon. One is the museum’s exposure in the Discovery Channel’s “Sharkzilla” show scheduled to air at 10 p.m. on Aug. 13. The other is “California’s Changing Water,” a display designed by the state water resources department in place now at the museum in downtown Bakersfield. A program from 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 15 will feature Jeanine Jones who is with the state agency that deals with California’s water and climate changes. Also new at Buena Vista is a mineral display that can be seen on the upper floor. The director said David Hamilton recently gave the florescent mineral room a face-lift as an Eagle Scout project.

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Thursday, August 2, 2012 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

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Sushi & Sweets

Go & Do Today Concerts by The Fountain, great blues with Fat Daddy Blues Band, 7 to 9 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. Booksellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book Group, 7 p.m., Barnes & Noble, in the cafe, 4001 California Ave. 631-2575. Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market, 4 to 7 p.m., Tehachapi Blvd. and Robinson St., in downtown Tehachapi. 822-6519. Guitar Class, taught by Mark Albert, for individuals or a group, Julianaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. call 578-4570 or 327-7507 for class details. Taft Certified Farmers Market, 5 to 8 p.m., 5th St. Plaza, Taft. 765-2165. Voice Lessons, learn to improve your vocal range and breathing, one hour lessons for six weeks, Julianaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $150. 889-5625. Accordion Lessons, one hour per person for 6 weeks. Learn beginnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s techniques and several different styles of music such as Polka, Italian, and Mariachi music, off of a 124 bass accordion with keyboard at 501 18th St. 889-5625. 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 Movies in the Park, presents â&#x20AC;&#x153;African Cats,â&#x20AC;? begins at dusk, Lowell Park, 800 4th St. Free. 326-3866. Lantern Light Tour & Ghost Hunt, 9 p.m., Silver City Ghost Town, 3829 Lake Isabella Boulevard, Bodfish. $12. 760-379-5146. River Rhythms Concert Series, 7 to 9 p.m., Riverside Park, 10 Kern River Drive, Kernville. Free. Visit facebook.com/acousticriver.music. The Lackey film screening, 8 p.m., Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $8 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200. First Friday Downtown, featuring live music, art, etc. 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Arts District. Email don@themetrogalleries.com or info@themetrogalleries.com. Wine & Beer Tasting, enjoy wine and beer tasting along with appetizers, 5 to 7 p.m., Steak and Grape Restaurant, 4420 Coffee Rd., $20. 588-9463.

Saturday Bakersfield Speedway, Modifieds, Hobby Stocks, Mini Stocks, American Stocks, NMRA, gates open at 4 p.m.; races begin at 6 p.m., Bakersfield Speedway, 5001 N. Chester Ave. $10; $5 ages 6-12; under 5 free. bakersfieldspeedway.com or call 393-3373. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fistful of Dollarsâ&#x20AC;? Cinema Saturday, begins at sundown, Valentien Restaurant & Wine Bar, 1310 Truxtun Ave., Suite 160. 8640397. Sixth annual Tehachapi Food & Wine Festival, food from local restaurants and wineries, fine arts, chef demonstration, live music, VIP gates open at 5:30 p.m., regular admission 6 to 10 p.m., E and Green St., Tehachapi. $40 general; $100 VIP. Tehachapifoodandwine.com, 374-0395. Howlinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at the Moon Fun Run, night-time run, 2K starts at 8 p.m.; 5K and 10K start at 8:30 p.m., the Park at Riverwalk, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $30 on-site registration. Proceeds benefit the BPD K9 Unit. 3263685. Joan Sebastian, 8 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $40 to $125 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Historic Cemetery Tour, meet in front of the cemetery at 8:45 a.m., tour from 9 to 10 a.m., Historic Union Cemetery, 730 Potomac Ave. Email info@uc1872.com or visit unioncemetery1872.com. Cat Adoptions, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointments, Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 327-4706. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road, and 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. Free Electronic Waste Recycling Event, bring all unwanted electronic waste, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Care Pharmacy, parking lot, 9805 Stockdale Highway, Suite 130. Free. 873-4011. 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. 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. 324-6350. Kern Humane Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spay/Neuter Assistance, offers discount coupons to the public on the first Saturday of every month, 325-2589. Sierra Club-Buena Vista Group Program & Brunch, guest speaker Deanna Hornback will be showing videos on the Adopt-a-Highway program, 10 a.m., Camino Real Restaurant, 3500 Truxtun Ave. 323-5569. Twilight at CALM, bring a picnic dinner and dine with the animals, 5:30 to 8 p.m., CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. $9 adults; $7 seniors; children under 3 are free; CALM members are free. No Twilight at the zoo Aug. 18. calmzoo.org or 8722256.

Sunday 15th annual Lowrider Nationals, dubs, euros, imports, motorcycles, bicycles, hoppers, entertainment, hot model contest, bikini contest, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $20 adults; children 5 and under are free. lowridernationals.com or 818-671-4771. Optimal Hospice Foundation 19th annual Kids Camp, for ages 8-18 who have suffered the loss of an immediate family member, Sunday through Friday, Gergen Ranch, 10658 Round Mountain Road. Free. 7168000. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kaiser Permanente, 8800 Ming Ave. 877-524-7373.

THEATER â&#x20AC;&#x153;Flor,â&#x20AC;? 8:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Arvin High School, 900 Varsity Road, Arvin. $10 suggested donation, reservations are recommended. 800-578-1335. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Real Housewives of Oildale,â&#x20AC;? 2 p.m. Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23. 587-3377. *The Friday and Saturday night showing of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Real Housewives of Oildaleâ&#x20AC;? is SOLD OUT. We have seats available for the Sunday show. Box office opens at 11 a.m. 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. Please see GO & DO / 32

Wednesday, August 8th, 6-8pm

Throw your own sushi party at home with these delicious recipes from Hejune, sushi chef from Enso & Toro Sushi Bars. Finish the party off with sushi-inspired sweets from Chef Steph, the sweets expert at Gimmee Some Sugar!

As always, these classes are free, but seating is limited. Please call 396-8400 today to reserve your free seat! Located at