Eye Street Entertainment / 5 - 9 - 13 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street

Index Bakersfield Jazz Festival .................... 22-23 Arts Alive .................................................. 24 CSUB barbecue ........................................ 25 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 26 Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra............ 27 One to Watch ............................................ 32 Girls Day Out............................................ 33 Calendar .............................................. 34-35

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

CHAPTER THREE: Melody man I have to choose: Stay in bed, try to forget and go back to sleep or follow the unknown into the courtyard. A moment later, as I emerge into the courtyard, the note repeats and begins to form into a melody. I feel myself

drawn to the sound and catch a glimpse of the man at the back gate. The music seems to emanate from the figure, a strange sound that is also so familiar.

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

“(My art is) my exploration of the world around me. Photography gives me a reason to look at the landscape critically and examine my relationship with it.” — Kristopher Stallworth, photographer

My world, through a lens Photographer blends reality with art in the images he creates BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

Although this isn’t a photo finish, the artist behind Chapter Three in the Eye Gallery art series ventured a guess on how this musical story will end. “One thought is that it will turn out to be a dream,” said Kristopher Stallworth. “But the last time I participated in a show like this, I learned that there is really no way to predict what the other artist will come up with.” The 36-year-old assistant art professor at Bakersfield College offers another look at the mysterious man in the courtyard, whose story was introduced and expanded upon in the first two chapters of the “story.” Stallworth surrounds him in light in a digital C-print (chromogenic), produced when the photographer created light trails with LEDs, “painting” the image using long exposure. The bold image has a dreamy quality, something Stallworth intended to convey. “I want the viewer to put themselves in the narrator’s position. There should be a sense of waking/dreaming.” That quality also allowed a broad starting point for later artists in the series, which the photographer said was also an important consideration. “The biggest challenge for me was deciding how to continue the story and how far to push it along. I was pretty early in the process and wanted to make sure to leave it open enough for the other artist while putting my own stamp on it as well.” Stallworth’s stamp is unique as his style developed from his formative years living in Europe. Born in Charlotte, N.C., Stallworth spent his childhood in Linz, Austria, before returning to the U.S., attending high school in Kansas. Being exposed to two very different cultures played a factor in developing his art, specifically a series he created capturing the generic architecture we see across the U.S. “I do think experiencing two cultures at a young age influenced me. In the series ‘Everywhere/Nowhere,’ I was reacting to the homogenized American landscape, which was quite different from what I experienced growing up. I also think growing up in Austria, art and cultural events were more valued than in American schools.” After a brief exploration of drawing and painting, Stallworth focused on photography as a teen and stayed on track, earning his bachelor’s in photography from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and his master of fine arts from the University of Memphis. The photographer has shown his work in

About Eye Gallery The annual art series is a partnership between The Californian and the Bakersfield Museum of Art whose purpose is to put the work of local artists in the spotlight. This year we asked 10 artists to collaborate on a story, in words and pictures. Each was given 96 hours, a canvas and all the work that had been produced to that point. The story will unfold in Eye Street every Thursday through June 27, when the museum will host a reception for the artists and unveil other exhibitions.

San Francisco, Los Angeles, Memphis and Woodstock, N.Y., as well as the Bakersfield Museum of Art and BC’s Jones Gallery after moving to Bakersfield eight years ago with his wife, Carla. What does your art say about you? It’s my exploration of the world around me. Photography gives me a reason to look at the landscape critically and examine my relationship with it. When/how you knew art would be your passion: I started in photography in high school and never looked back. What drew you to photography as an art form? I think there’s something about the literal representation. Capturing something that happened in front of the camera that way. Something that is more familiar than in painting, which can be much more abstract. I’m a fairly straightforward photographer in that sense. I try to find things that I find interesting and capture them in a straightforward way. What was your process on this piece? Specifically with this piece, I wanted to do this in camera — long exposure, remote control flashes. I wanted to create a single photograph without digital manipulation. I made a 10to 20-second-long exposure and painted with LED lights to create light trails. I used an off-camera flash triggered by remote control to illuminate the figure. What work are you proudest of? My series “Everywhere/Nowhere.” I looked at the generic places that surround us regardless of where we live. Shopping mall parking lots, the back of strip malls, big box retail stores ... How hard is it to find a place to show your work publicly? It can be a challenge locally, but there are more opportunities now than when I

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Photographer Kristopher Stallworth used a long exposure to get the effect in the photo at left, his contribution to the ongoing Eye Gallery narrative. framed color print.

Next week Painter Al Mendez rides the wave of music in Chapter Four of our story.

Most supportive mentor and why: Bob Lewis. He was my thesis adviser in graduate school and taught me a lot about being an artist and a professor.

came to Bakersfield eight years ago. ... I’m open to showing work at any local galleries.

What are some other non-art passions? Cycling, basketball

Memory of the first time you sold a piece of work: As a graduate teaching assistant, one of my students bought a piece that I had shown in my thesis show. It was from the series “Everywhere/Nowhere,” a 20-by-24-inch

What kind of art speaks to you? I’m fairly traditional when it comes to photography and really appreciate unmanipulated landscapes and cityscapes. How to learn more about your work: kstallworth.com

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street

Get a move on to get your groove on Jazz Festival still the music party of the year, even at slightly higher prices

Bakersfield Jazz Festival When: 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. Saturday Where: CSUB Amphitheater, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: $60 for two-day combo tickets; $40 students; $36, $26 in advance for Friday only, $41 and $31 at the gate; $41 and $29 in advance for Saturday only, $46 and $36 at the gate. Children under 12 free on both days. Reserved tables also available. Tickets available through Vallitix.com or call 322-5200.

BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

Nailing down the lineup for the Bakersfield Jazz Festival always presents a series of challenges, but for festival talent booker Paul Perez, it’s also meant adapting to newly developed business habits. “It’s like playing a game of checkers,” said Perez of the festival — a highlight of Bakersfield’s music scene — which returns to the CSUB Amphitheater Friday and Saturday. “I have offers on different places on the board, waiting for someone to make a move. “The lineup has changed a few times. You make an offer to these artists and they have three weeks to accept or reject the offer, so I have to sit and do nothing until I hear. One artist who was on our original lineup texted me with ‘I’ll be back with some good news,’ then and hour later it’s, ‘Sorry, we just booked Japan.’” Another considerable factor in booking talent comes down to money, which means sponsorships. Though many have returned, Perez blames a noticeable jump in ticket price (up $4 to $6 from last year) on rising production costs. “Generally speaking, everything is just going up. Bringing the artists to Bakersfield alone has some big costs, depending on the size of the group and what location they’re traveling from. If you figure in travel agents, booking flights, and putting them all up, it really starts to add up. Last year, there were considerations on the table. This year, an agent is either ‘yes’ or ‘no.’” Despite those hurdles, Perez has successfully lined up a collection of artists from across the jazz genre, each with a unique style and sound. All the money raised is used to fund CSUB music scholarships. “Friday night is a party night. Saturday is more straightahead jazz and dancing. We have something for everyone.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF EUGE GROOVE

Saxophonist Steven Eugene Grove, aka Euge Groove, headlines the Bakersfield Jazz Festival on Saturday.

Friday: Robin Bramlett, Billy Vera Big Band, Roy Ayers Opening the festival main stage is Bakersfield bassist Robin Bramlett, who will be marking the occasion with the official release of her debut CD, “This Is My Life.” A funk-filled gem of contemporary jazz, “This Is My Life” kicks off with a re-worked instrumental cover of the

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Teena Marie funk classic “Square Biz.” Throughout the release, Bramlett’s melodic bass work is prominently showcased whether taking the lead voice or stepping back into the foundation of the song. Bramlett described the CD as an instrumental autobiography layered with a helping of her musical influences. “I want people to not only dig my music but to be able to spiritually connect with me after listening to my life story through my music,” said Bramlett, who will sell copies of the CD at the festival. “I’m getting many positive responses.” Bramlett will be backed Friday by Bakersfield saxophonist Darren Gholston, guitarist Darlene Moreno, bassist Nathaniel Kearney, keyboardist Andrae Alexander, and drummer Ray Moore on drums. Following Bramlett is acclaimed singer-songwriter Billy Vera, who plans to give audiences an update of the classics under the stars. After hitting the music charts with his breakup anthem “At This Moment,” the Grammy-winning artist slipped back into cruise control, staying active as a songwriter, producing and performing with his band, The Beaters. He’ll be joined by his latest project, the Billy Vera Big Band, on Friday. Starting out as a professional songwriter in the early ’60s, Vera recalled the stress of trying to craft a hit suited to each artist he wrote for. “The boss would come in and say, ‘The Shirelles are recording this week, or Tony Bennett is recording,’” said Please turn to JAZZ / 23

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Eye Street JAZZ: CONTINUED FROM 22 Vera, 68, during a phone interview. “So, you’d try to listen to some of their records, find their range and subject matter they like to sing about. If you had a hit song, you could look forward to 10 to 20 different versions of it.” But Vera’s biggest break would come decades later in 1986 with the re-release of “At This Moment,” the song that helped reignite his career as a live performer. “Every song comes from somewhere. In this case, I had just started dating this girl and she was telling me about breaking up with her previous boyfriend. So, I wrote about the first two-third of the song from what I perceived to be his point of view but I couldn’t finish it. When she dumped me about a year later, I was able to write the end.” Recorded with a full jazz ensemble, Vera’s new CD, “Big Band Jazz,” pays tribute to the jazz masters of the 1920s through the ’40s. “Someone asked me, ‘What do you know more about than anybody else?’ So, that’s why I chose that theme. Everybody and their mothers are doing a standards album these days, so how could I make mine different? I got two bedrooms full of records. I’ve been collecting since I was 11, and I love my 45s.” Expanding the party theme of Friday night to include some vintage grooves will be legendary vibraphonist Roy Ayers. Now in his fourth decade in the music business, Ayers is an iconic figure whose talents remain in great demand. Known as the Godfather of Neo-Soul, his classic recordings from the ’70s have been sampled by some of the biggest acts in hip-hop and R&B, including singers Mary J. Blige, Erykah Badu, and rapper Ice Cube. Ayers is currently the subject of a documentary in progress called the “Roy Ayers Project.”

Saturday: Euge Groove, Avance, Lao Tizer, Clayton Cameron & the Jass Explosion and more Kern County’s best jazz students start things off, followed by Bakersfield musician Rob Hutchinson, who wrote a collection of new compositions especially for this jazz festival performance. Expect intense, playful and sophisticated grooves from this local genius and his quartet. Segueing into late afternoon is Drummer Clayton Cameron and his group, the Jass Explosion, who promise to make your toes tap with a straight-ahead jazz show in tribute to Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. The group will feature 14-year-old piano phenom Jamael Dana Dean, of Bakersfield, along with students from the Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz. At dusk will be the set by improvisational keyboardist Lao Tizer and his explosive mix of jazz, rock, classical and world rhythms. This year’s Latin jazz spotlight act features West Coast sizzling salsa sensation Avance, who plan to bring spectators to their feet. Formed by world-renowned Santana band percussionist Karl Perazzo in 1992, the group’s sound is heavy-hitting, dance-oriented Latin, embued with various traditional tropical and pop influences. “The concept of Avance has always been about experimenting with different styles that lend themselves to the Latin sound,” said Perazzo, who, due to a scheduling conflict, will not be joining Avance Saturday. “Content and genres of music have never been limited or censored. We can do

PHOTO COURTESY OF BILLY VERA

Billy Vera pays tribute to the masters of jazz on his latest album, which he’ll be performing at the festival.

something as traditional as Willie Rosario to Carlos Santana to Bobby Brown to Kool & the Gang back to Irakere.” The group features a trio of lead vocalists — Armando Cordoba, Jeff Cordoba and Jimmy Flores — along with a ninepiece Latin orchestra. “Bakersfield can expect interaction and participation from both parties involved: the band and audience,” Perazzo said. “We give 150 percent in everything we do and the energy is what people react to. Salsa, dancing and most of all, fun. You won’t be disappointed, guaranteed.” Following the annual fireworks display will be the electrifying climax of the festival, featuring saxophonist Steven Eugene Grove, aka Euge Groove. The wildly entertaining musician has a resume most musicians would die for, including appearing alongside Tina Turner, Elton John, Joe Cocker, Richard Marx, as well as stepping into the lead shoes for Tower of Power’s 1991 comeback album, “Monster on a Leash.” “Each one of them had a different lesson to teach; Tower of Power was definitely about energy and precision,” said Grove, 50, in a phone interview. “There’s no band that’s more energetic or more precise than that band. I really learned what a short, precise attack was about playing in that horn section, because if you messed up you’re all alone. Joe Cocker was all about passion. Richard Marx was about songs. I learned from him that you had to have a great song. Tina was all about class. I mean, she just exuded class. When she walked into a room, the room would just light up.” Even as a solo artist, Grove said he’ll always consider himself a product of his environment. “You can try to shape something as much as you want, but in the end, we’re all products of everything that we’ve been exposed to or have listened to our whole lives. I studied classic music all through college. I’ve listened to everything from Boots Randolph to Junior Walker and Gato Barbieri and didn’t start getting into the rock and roll stuff until the end of college. All that experience made what Euge Groove is.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Cal State pumped about oil art Gaslight cruising toward next hit?

GO & DO Angie Chau: Public Reading

ast week I had the good fortune to talk to Ernest Daetwyler about his 12-foothigh sculpture made from 24 used oil drilling pipes that will be placed near the Science III building on the Cal State Bakersfield campus. A slender fellow who sports an unusually narrow but very lengthy goatee, Daetwyler has a pixie-like humor that extends to his artwork, which is shaped like a giant double helix and weighs about 2,500 pounds. “I call it ‘All’s Well,’ — it comes from that Shakespeare line, ‘all’s well that ends well,’” he said. Then with a twinkle in his eye, he indicated it’s a play on words given the subject matter and that he really doesn’t like Shakespeare. The internationally known artist, who was born in Switzerland and immigrated to Canada in 1993 has created numerous large-scale sculptures and is noted for his multi-disciplinary approach. “I always do research online and in libraries before I start a project,” he said. “I was astounded that 60 percent of the oil in California is produced here.” About 15 CSUB students were involved in “All’s Well,” which included leading the artist on a tour of the oilfields and purchasing old pipes as well as assembling and welding the pieces to create the finished artwork. Daetwyler said he’s pleased with the placement of “All’s Well.” “The background is perfect and I like the connection to science,” he said. “It takes science for the exploration of oil and it takes a lot of science to preserve natural resources.” Art department chair Joyce Kohl expects the sculpture will be ready for public view in about a week, after it has been moved to the site and bolted down on a concrete pad.

Nostalgia at Gaslight Long before McDonald’s and other fast-food places appeared on the scene, locally owned drive-ins were popu-

When: 4 p.m. today Where: CSUB Walter Stiern Library, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: Free Information: 654-3042

“Cycles” exhibit When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday Where: Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Admission: Free Information: 323-7219

“Cruisin’ Chester” When: 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Gaslight Melodrama & Music Hall 12748 Jomani Drive Admission: $23; $21 seniors; $12 students and children under 12 Information: 587-3377

lar teen hangouts, and Bakersfield’s main drag was a happening place. Writer-director Michael Prince takes a look at that era with “Cruisin’ Chester,” which opens on Friday at the Gaslight Melodrama. I asked Prince, who’s in his early 30s, if he had ever been part of the Friday and Saturday night parade up and down the broad avenue, car radios blaring the latest rock ’n’ roll hits. Turns out he was simply a wannabe. “By the time I was in high school it had kind of died out — which was too bad, because, growing up, all of us kids were really looking forward to the day we got to cruise Chester,” he said. “Maybe this is my way of going down memory lane, only they're someone else's memories. “ His version is set in the 1950s in a place called Andre’s (a Bakersfield drive-in by that name still stands at Chester and Brundage, a popular spot where cruisers would turn around to head back north to the thick of the action). At any rate, in “Cruisin’ Chester” this Andre’s is the favorite hangout of two groups of teens, The Jets and The Sweet Ladies, whom Prince refers to as “the coolest of cool cats.” As in all melodramas, there’s a

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL PRINCE

A scene from “Cruisin’ Chester,” which opens Friday at the Gaslight Melodrama.

ALEX HORVATH / THE CALIFORNIAN

Sculptor Ernest Daetwyler checks his scaled model as CSUB student Jonny Dewitt aligns oil well pipe before welding at CSUB April 30.

villain. This time he’s an evil businessman who threatens to buy Andre’s and change it into a dry cleaners in anticipation of a population surge due to the construction of the Westside Parkway. The kids must find a way to thwart his plans. “Cruisin’ Chester” continues weekends through June 29. The cast includes Jay Stodder, Laurie Alexander, Ivan Goertzen, Austin Whitten and other members of the Gaslight company.

CSUB writer-in-residence Anyone interested in creative writing will get a taste of what’s coming this summer with an

introduction to Angie Chau, this year’s writer-in-residence at Cal State Bakersfield. Chau, author of “Quiet as They Come,” will give a reading this afternoon in the Dezember Reading Room of the Walter Stiern Library. Then on July 11 she’ll teach a one-day creative writing workshop in the library. Born in Vietnam, she is a graduate of UC Berkeley and has a master’s in English from UC Davis. Her book is a series of stories about Vietnamese immigrants living in the San Francisco area. Although today’s presentation is free, cost for Chau’s summer course is $150. To register go to www.csub.edu/library/writer2013 .shtml and download an application.

‘Cycles’ at BMOA A collection of bicycles was the first thing I thought of when I heard that “Cycles” was the theme for this evening’s ArtWorks exhibit at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. But as I learned from BMOA education coordinator Liz Sherwyn, the 17 junior and senior level high school students participating in the show were much more imaginative in defining the term artistically. For instance, in a statement accompanying her watercolor, titled “Vivaldi,” BHS student Gabrielle Jordan explained that her painting portrays the changing of seasons, which can be both gentle and harsh. Jordan’s painting shows four male deer each displaying an

impressive set of antlers that, surprisingly, are sprouting flowers and greenery. “I really enjoy (painting) animals,” she said, “but adding a message behind it in a way that the onlooker has to interpret and maybe see something different than I do.” Other students chose to focus on such things as the lunar cycles, the metamorphosis of a human face as it ages, the cycles of home appliances. And, yes, even bicycles. This evening’s exhibit is a graduation of sorts for the students who have been in the BMOA program since January. Each student has at least one piece of art that was created for this exhibition and some have multiple works so there will be about 25 pieces in all. Sherwyn said participation in ArtWorks is free but not everyone qualifies; of the 30 who applied this year, only 17 were accepted. “We look for students who really have a passion for art,” she said. “There is a fairly rigorous application process, which involves portfolio presentation, essay, letters of recommendation and an interview.” The program is funded by grants from Chevron, Stantec and the Jim Burke Education Foundation as well as contributions from several local residents so there is no cost for the students. “And that’s good,” Sherwyn said, “because there are some kids who can barely pay for the gas to get here.” ArtWorks is a semester-long program that began in 2008. It consists of eight meetings from January through May. Its purpose is to focus on developing and enhancing artistic skills while providing a broad spectrum of hands-on visual arts enrichment activities. A day trip to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and lunch at a nearby restaurant is included in the instruction. “It’s been exciting for me to see them taking in the art,” said Sherwyn, who has been involved in education activities at BMOA for about seven years. Once or twice during the semester, out-of-town artists and local working artists are brought in to give students different perspectives on the field and to talk about opportunities for an artrelated career. The students’ artwork will be on display in a space behind the wall of the main gallery through June 9. Applications for the 2014 ArtWorks program will be available in August.

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

The juicy details on CSUB Barbecue Organizer looks back on how it all started, the fun and the steaks BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

hen John Giumarra Jr. organized the first Cal State Athletics Spring Barbecue in 1971, the location was the police pistol range, tickets were $7.50, the wives of committee members made all the pies, and the steaks cost $1.90 each. “So at that first little barbecue we had, we made about $1,500,” said the farmer and avid CSUB supporter. “Not a bad first year. And then, of course, every year this thing has just grown and grown and grown. Now we’ve gone from 300 people to 3,000.” Somewhere along the line, Giumarra, 72, realized that the barbecue wasn’t just a way to help CSUB athletics. It had evolved — pretty much by accident — into a tradition, one of the most anticipated annual events on the community calendar. With the help of grill masters Gary and Adam Icardo, Giumarra will be doing it all again this evening, with a twist: In addition to the meal (New York steak or chicken, beans, Mexicali salsa, breadsticks and pie), the fun quotient is being pushed to the max with the introduction of a theme: “Salute to the ’80s.” All guests are encouraged to don their best retro fashions to compete in the best ’80s ensemble costume contest. Giumarra spoke to The Californian on the history of the barbecue and what it’s been like watching a humble fundraiser develop into a full-blown community tra-

meet their friends here, and make new ones. We have a great band for dancing and for listening, and there are cocktails and beer for sale, so it’s an all-around great social occasion. Also, the food is really good. We still have the salsa from Mexicali, we have breadsticks from the Olive Garden, beans, steaks — recently, we added barbecue chicken to the menu — and Marie Callender’s provides the pies.

CSUB Athletics Spring Barbecue and Auction When: 5:30 to 9 p.m. tonight Where: CSUB, Icardo Center, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: $30 in advance, $35 at the door; $15 in advance for students; $20 at the door Info: 645-2583

dition: JOHN HARTE / THE CALIFORNIAN

How many steaks have you served in 41 years? How many steaks have we served? Oh, I don’t know — I would say we’ve probably served at least 75,000. Holy cow! This year’s theme is “Salute to the ’80s.” Will you be in costume? What will you dress up as? What I wore in the ’80s I can’t get into anymore. I like to play golf, so in the ’80s I wore a lot of golf-style clothes, even to the office. Sansabelt slacks — I had all kinds of colors. I had pink, red, purple, green; you name it. My kids still tease me about it. If I can get my body into a pair of slacks I was wearing in the ’80s, I will definitely wear them to the barbecue. Word is, this event is popular among singles. Has this event generated some “happily ever afters”? That’s very true; (the barbecue) is very popular amongst singles. In fact, back when we held this at the fairgrounds, the barbecue was supposed to end at 10

IN HONOR OF MOTHER’S DAY , MOTHERS HAVE FREE ADMISSION

Steve Rasmussen and Tom Antongiovanni remove steaks from the grill at the 2007 CSUB barbecue.

o’clock, but we could never get everybody to leave by 10 because there was such a party going it would last ’til midnight! Finally, we had to bring the police and the security guys in to escort everyone out, in a nice way, of course; everyone was having such a wonderful time. The food’s great, the weather’s great; it’s just one big party. I can’t honestly say that I know if somebody has gotten married, but I’m sure it’s probably happened — it’s just such a good spot for singles to go and meet people. What do you attribute to the barbecue’s popularity? It’s a combination of things. Number one, I think people in Bakersfield are proud to have a university here, and they want to support it. Another aspect of it — it’s just really a lot of fun. For young and for old, but particularly for the young. They

Learn

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Side By Side May 11, 2013 SATURDAY, MAY 11, 2013 11AM TO 11PM ONE DAY ONLY! ADULTS $5 (SUGGESTED DONATION) KIDS UNDER 12-FREE JOIN US FOR LIVE MUSIC, GREEK DANCERS, KIDS FUN ZONE, LOTS OF VENDORS & GREAT GREEK FOOD & DRINK!

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Each Second Saturday of the Month, BMOA opens its doors to children ages 3 to 8 accompanied by an adult for an experimental hour-long art workshop! Children engage in ?EAHF9A5%@!H%9!;D5<HI0%9!@<HF<5%"=5%?;H;!%IBFAAI0%>@IF<%<;A;!% theory, painting, drawing, sculpting, observation, and exploration. These projects are designed to be replicated at home with the child’s guardians and to promote exploration of creativity. To learn more visit bmoa.org/sidebyside

Second Saturday of the Month (),))76/((,))76 Ages 3-8, accompanied by an adult G()*?5?>5!I%#%G(8*=;=/?5?>5!I

Why have you been involved for so long? When this started, I was the first chairman. As the chairman, I bought the plates, I bought the napkins; I bought the plastic utensils — all the things that go into throwing a party. I just sort of fell in love with the idea of doing something like this: putting on a really nice event that people will really enjoy going to and are proud to support. Once things got started, five years went by, then I turn around and 20 years have gone by, and now, here we are celebrating our 41st anniversary. It’s a lot of work, but it’s a labor of love. It really is. Why else would I be here for 41 years, if I didn’t love it?

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How much money do you think you’ve raised? I would say we’ve raised a few million dollars. How many million, exactly, I’m not sure. But each year, the barbecue raises close to $100,000, and it’s been doing that for, I would say, for at least 10 years. So maybe somewhere around 3 to 4 million dollars is what we’ve raised over this 41year period, and it all goes directly to the athletic program.

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Ukulele shredder heads our way stopped asking for the old songs. They know we mean business.” Canada says Bakersfield can expect a rattlesnake bite of a show when they roll into town. “It’s going to be hard to contain ourselves. The fans there have always been great to us and my music. We got at least a good twohour set and we’re going to give it everything we’ve got.” Wednesday’s showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 to $18, plus service charge. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is located at 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 328-7560 or visit vallitix.com.

Texas band promises barn burner at Palace

cclaimed South African bassist Bakithi Kumalo will make a rare appearance in Bakersfield on Tuesday and Thursday for a series of music clinics focusing on the other instrument he loves: the ukulele. Panama-Buena Vista educator Kevin Birkbeck, who also teaches ukulele classes, is arranging the visit by Kumalo, perhaps best known for his work on Paul Simon’s “Graceland” album. Still active on the touring and studio circuit, Kumalo discovered the UBass five years ago, which opened new doors of opportunity for him, including the role of ukulele clinician. “I’m so glad the instrument is coming back and taking over, because it’s an old tradition,” said Kumalo, 57, during a phone interview from his home on Long Island. “Every family in America used to have a ukulele in their home.” Able to produce the same pitches as a standard bass instrument, the size of the U-Bass is relatively close to the average ukulele. “When I first saw the instrument, I thought it looked cool. I thought it was a toy, but then when I started playing it, I didn’t stop for hours. I just couldn’t believe the sound that was coming out of the bass. There’s always been ukulele, but never a bass ukulele like this. I play it all the time now.” Birkbeck pitched the idea of having the bassist share his experiences with Bakersfield students after meeting Kumalo at a music merchants convention. Kumalo agreed, even paying for the trip himself. “I’ll do some bass solos and tell stories about growing up in South Africa, our music along with some videos about the making of the ‘Graceland’ album. The kids can ask questions.” Recalling the making of the classic album, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of its release last year, Kumalo said the experience

From rock to country

PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKITHI KUMALO

Famed South African bassist Bakithi Kumalo, known for his work with Paul Simon, appears in Bakersfield May 14 and 16.

ultimately altered the course of his career on a global scale. “Somebody had sent Paul some tapes of South African music and he loved it. He flew to South Africa and we put the band together. We had no idea what he was looking for. The music was so complicated for him and difficult for him to follow at first. But, you know, he’s a musician, a writer, so it’s easy for him to come up with something. I was just really playing for fun, and then it took off. I had no idea it would have turned out like this.” Kumalo still tours regularly with Simon, in addition to treks with keyboardist Herbie Hancock and guitarist Derek Trucks among many others. “I’m a student as well. Just because I play with the great players doesn’t mean I know everything. I learn every day, and being around these musicians, it helps me to become a great player. I’m glad we were able to put this together and looking forward to visiting Bakersfield.” Kumalo will appear at 1:45 p.m., 2:20 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday at Berkshire Elementary, 3900 Berkshire Road, and on Thursday at 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at Hart Elementary, 9501 Ridge Oak

PHOTO COURTESY OF CODY CANADA

Cody Canada & The Departed appear at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace Wednesday.

Drive. The public is invited and both shows are free. For more information, call Birkbeck at 4969514.

The Departed It’s been two years since Texas alt-country rockers Cody Canada & The Departed have been to California, but that doesn’t mean 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.

restless band has been sitting around getting rusty. “I have to be out on the road,” said singer/songwriter Cody Canada, who promises a rip-roaring show at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Wednesday. “It’s always been that way for me. I started out touring when I was 18. I wanted to conquer every state, city by city.” Canada and bassist/compadre Jeremy Plato took some time after the demise of their previous Oklahoma country band, Cross Canadian Ragweed, to shed their skin and make way for a new identity as The Departed. The pair also relocated to Texas to be reintroduced on new musical turf. “It was hard at first,” Canada said. “We started out with a cover record of Oklahoma songs, which reminded people of our Ragweed sound, but we didn’t want to rush a new record the first six to seven month we were together.” Following the release of their latest record, “Adventus,” Canada and the rest of the band are finally at home with their new direction. Canada’s signature sound has carried over to the present on a collection of solid country-laced rock originals. “I’ve noticed that since we put the record out, fans have finally

KVMX-FM (MAX 92.1) in Bakersfield has changed formats, leaving behind classic rock for country. The new station, owned by Lotus Communications, is being rebranded “KIX Country, 92.1.” An item on the industry website Radio Online, said the lineup features syndicated personality Bobby Bones from 5 to 10 a.m. weekdays, and his “Country’s Top 30 Countdown” on Sundays from 8 a.m. to noon. Some disc jockeys from KVMX have been retained for the new format, including Anne Kelly, a voice on the local radio scene for more than 20 years. The Radio Online item quoted Greg Holcomb, the station’s general manager, as saying: “Country music is one of those formats that crosses all demographics. With our impressive talent line up, we look forward to satisfying our new listeners.”

Matt’s pick KSVG Benefit Show at Narducci’s Cafe, 622 E. 21st St., 2 p.m. Saturday. $5. 324-2961. Bakersfield’s only nonprofit community terrestrial radio station, 89.7FM KSVG Savage Radio, has organized this marathon concert in Old Town Kern to help with the bills, and all at a very punk-rock admission price. Bands appearing live include local and visiting acts: Micah Newton & Kasey Culp, Tanked, Country Deluxe, Dreadful Selfish Crime, The Dharma Bums, Leksure, Artificial Euphoria, Love Lush, The Nature, Redadare, The Volume, and Choirs. There will also be raffles throughout the day, with all funds going to benefit KSVG Radio. More info at facebook.com/ksvgradio.

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

BSO’s season finale Pianist returns as coda to ambitious year BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

Pianist Roberto Plano returns to perform with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra in its final concert of the 2012-13 season Saturday. It’s been an ambitious year for the orchestra, with a harmonica concerto, a photo-choreography presentation, world premieres and bicentennial celebrations for Richard Wagner and Giuseppe Verdi, a daring, explosive choral masterwork. To cap such a season, the orchestra will perform the U.S. premiere of the Fanfare for Orchestra by Estonian violinist and composer Mihkel Kerem; the “Four Sea Interludes” from the opera “Peter Grimes” by Benjamin Britten; and the Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major by Johannes Brahms, featuring Plano. “He’s a wonderful pianist,” said conductor John Farrer. “I think I first heard him at the 2005 Van Cliburn competition — he’s a great pianist and a great artist.” The Italian Plano has been lauded as much for his engaging personality as for his performances, making him a favorite with audiences and in interviews, documentaries and master classes. Farrer’s travels also led him to choosing Kerem’s work. Kerem has served as concertmaster in

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra When: 8 p.m. Saturday; lecture by Jerome Kleinsasser at 7 p.m. Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $34 to $50; available at the Rabobank Theater box office or at Ticketmaster

Coming Saturday Concertmaster Rebecca Brooks leaves symphony on a high note.

several performances for Farrer while he was conducting in England. “Somewhere along the line I picked up on the fact that he is a composer as well,” Farrer said. “I asked him to send me some of his work and I really liked this fanfare.” Farrer noted that fanfares are typically written for brass instruments, but Kerem’s is written for the entire orchestra. “It’s accessible; it’s not some wild piece, even though it was written in 2010,” Farrer said. Britten’s “Peter Grimes” was one of the most important musical events following World War II — the composer’s first opera, “Peter Grimes” was an immediate triumph, and re-established English opera as an important part of the repertoire.

“It’s the work of a master,” Farrer said. “It’s original; it doesn’t sound like anyone else. It’s technically perfect.” “Peter Grimes” is the story of a man who is trying to make a prominent place for himself in a close-knit fishing village in Suffolk in England. In his drive and ambition, Grimes abuses and ultimately causes the death of the two boys who are apprenticed to him. Organized into a prologue and three acts, the major sections of the opera are connected by orchestral music. Britten extracted these orchestral interludes into a separate concert work. Though separated from the dramatic production, the interludes are still evocative of the various times of day and scenes they link: “Dawn,” which connects the opera’s prologue with the first act; “Sunday Morning,” which sets the scene of the villagers attending church; “Moonlight,” which leads into the final act; and “Storm,” which conveys Grimes’ own inner turmoil as his own end draws near. The concert will close with the Brahms concerto. Written in the composer’s mature period, this concerto has four movements, instead of the more common three movements for concertos. Although rooted in tradition, especially with regard to form, Brahms was also an innovator, which can be heard in this work in its melodic invention, harmonic variations, and its technical demands on the soloist and the orchestra.

Memoirists to share life stories at event BY NICK BELARDES Contributing writer

Memoirs & Margaritas: Readings From “Invisible Memoirs” is a literary fiesta featuring not only free drinks for the first 30 or so guests, but readings from a dozen writers — mostly from Bakersfield — who are all published in Memoir Journal’s first anthology: “Invisible Memoirs: I Speak From My Palms” (2013). These memoirists come from all walks of life. Mothers, daughters, widows, a barber, a billboard saleswoman, a correctional officer, a bookkeeper, a retired college professor, a doctor, an elementary school teacher and more. All tell raw, real, uncensored stories. “Memoir Journal is thrilled about the writing coming out of Bakersfield and the rest of the Central Valley,” says Rachel Reynolds, director of programming for Memoir Journal. “As a region of California, we’d wanted to run workshops there for a while and are so grateful that the James Irvine Foundation has supported us.” Memoir Journal, which published “Invisible Memoirs” from its home office in Emeryville, advances the art of memoir by publishing established and emerging authors and artists and by providing community outreach and education. Ann Cook of Lake Isabella, whose humorous collection of

Memoirs & Margaritas: Readings From ‘Invisible Memoirs’ When: Noon Saturday Where: Camino Real restaurant, 3500 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $5; first 30 guests will receive a free margarita

stories, “Happy Acres Trailer Park,” was published in the anthology, says writing the stories transported her back in time. “Now I take readers along for the ride, showing them what it was like to be me.” She added that her stories are filled with quirky humor. “I make fun of myself as only I can.” Headlining the event will be professor Ruth Nolan of the College of the Desert, whose memoir students wrote about issues regarding suicide. Indie rock band Burn the Ships will perform prior to the event. Cost is $5. The first 30 adult guests will get tickets for free margaritas, and attendees can purchase lunch. Russo’s Books will be on hand to sell copies of “Invisible Memoirs.” Those interested in pursuing memoir writing or graphic memoir can go to randomwritersworkshop. com and sign up for sessions being offered through July.

Masterworks Birthday Celebration 10:30am 1 0 : 3 0 a m Health H e a l t h Fair Fa i r 12:00 1 2 : 0 0 Fashion Fa s h i o n Show Sh ow 12:20 1 2 : 2 0 The T h e Princess Pr i n c e s s Bride Bri d e

June 1, 2013 5:30 pm Liberty Hall at Hodelʼs

Come join us as we celebrate our 80th Birthday with festive music under the direction of Robert Provencio. Special guest appearances by former directors Phillip E. Witmer, Jerome Kleinsasser and Phillip Dodson. Tickets $50. Call 391-8465 Deadline for reservations: May 21 No tickets will be sold at the door.

Benefactors: Phillip & Jean Dodson, Jim & Anne Marino, Marvin & Nadene Steinert & San Joaquin Community Hospital TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE FOX THEATER BOX OFFICE, RUSSO’S BOOKS AT THE MARKETPLACE, EMPORIUM WESTERN STORE 661-322-5200 888-825-5484 - FOXTHEATERONLINE.COM - VALLITIX.COM

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Jason Carrillo helps with the cooking during the Greek Food Festival in 2010.

Opa! Bring Mom to Greek festival BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

f you fondly remember a childhood of home-cooked meals made with love by Mom, consider this weekend time to return the favor. The hardworking families from St. George Greek Orthodox Church are ready to help you earn some brownie points at the second annual Spring Greek Food Festival on Saturday. “Bring your mothers!” organizer Danny Andrews said. Along with good food and fun, mothers have the added bonus of free admission, Andrews said. That decision is an effort to encourage attendance to the festival amid Mother’s Day and other activities. “This spring we had a difficult choice to make because our celebration of Easter in the Orthodox calendar differed from the Catholics. There is fasting. We celebrated last week and we weren’t able to host the event until after we celebrated. It’s a little later than we wanted the event.” Despite the delay, the spring festival comes at the right time in the year to address the community’s desire for gyros, spanakopita and all things Greek. “The community was so pleased that we offered the second festival (in the spring). People said, ‘I don’t have to wait a whole year for Greek food.’” Sadly, they will have to wait for feta fries, the popular dish of fresh potato chips topped with feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, which won’t be back until the festival in September. But organizers will keep things interesting with a new dish: baklava sundaes. “The family that has been running the (feta fries) booth, they’re the ones that suggested the baklava sundae. ... We’ve seen it done at some other Greek church festivals and it seemed to be a good hit.” Rich with chopped nuts and honey, the home-baked baklava will be broken up and served over vanilla ice cream, with

Spring Greek Food Festival When: noon to 11 p.m. Saturday Where: St. George Greek Orthodox, 401 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $5; free for mothers and children under 12 Information: 325-8694

chocolate sauce optional — “we’ll leave that up to the guest.” It will sell for $4. “It should be a big seller, especially if it’s going to be warm. We’re going to buy a freezer to keep the ice cream cold.” Plain baklava and other pastries will be for sale as well as the popular loukomades (doughnut balls dipped in honey). At the barbecue booth, lemon chicken and pork shish kabobs will served as plates ($15) that include salad, rice, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) and sliced Pyrenees bread, specially made by the bakery for the event. Other options include gyros, falafel sandwiches, hot dogs and savory pastries. About a dozen vendors will sell women’s apparel and accessories, bed sheets and towels and something unique for the kids. “One vendor wants to sell illuminated toys to play at night. I’m curious to see what those are.” There will be traditional music by Long Beach band Synthesi, Greek folk dancing, bounce houses and face painting by church teens. While its fall food festival covers everyday costs, St. George is using its spring event to put away money for repairs, capital improvements and savings in case the church ever relocates. In an effort to give back, the church also makes a donation to a local organization. This spring’s recipient will be the Kern County Boys & Girls Club. “We want to support the community and give thanks. That’s part of our calling, not just to think about ourselves.”

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street

Portrait of achievement South High senior wins congressional art contest BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer gavinarts@aol.com

South High senior Jose Valadez was speechless upon learning his painting, “Sergeant Underwood,” had won first place in this year’s Congressional Art Competition for the 21st District. Ceremony “I was honoring like shocked,” Jose Valadez he said. “I When: 3:30 just stood p.m. Friday there — Where: South didn’t High School, know what 1101 Planz Road to say.” Valadez Admission: got the Free news a Information: couple of 332-1258 weeks ago from his art teacher, Hank Washington, who was informed of his student’s success in an email from U.S. Rep. David G. Valadao’s office in Hanford. Official recognition will come on Friday, when Valadao will be at South High to personally congratulate the youth. “I am honored that I had the opportunity to host this competition and display the great work of our high school students here in the Central Valley,” Valadao said in

Another big win at South He’s been teaching at South High for 38 years, but instead of winding down, Hank Washington just seems to keep getting better. In addition to mentoring student Jose Valadez to a win in the Congressional Art Competition, Washington just got word earlier this week that another of his students, Davie Tith, has won a statewide honor for a stunning piece of work titled “Paper Monks.” Washington and Tith will head to New York sometime later this year to collect the award, which is bestowed by the National Art Edu-

a media release. “Jose’s work will be honored in Congress and strongly represent our district in Washington.” Valadez’s work will hang in the U.S. Capitol for an entire year and, if he chooses to, he can go there to see it in person. His award includes a round-trip ticket to Washington, courtesy of Southwest Airlines. Washington said his student worked hard on completing the painting of Underwood, the ROTC officer on campus, staying after school and coming in early for about two weeks. “Jose was in the beginners’ art class but I felt I could move him up because he is very talented,” he said. “I told him I thought he could win this.” Although Washington suggested Underwood as the subject for the painting, Valadez did have a connection with the officer. In his freshman year the student was in

cation Association. Another of Washington’s students won the same award a couple of years ago. “I consider myself as a teacher/artist when I’m at work,” Washington said via email. “When I’m not working and enjoying my leisure time, I consider myself an artist/teacher. “Whenever I am creating my own work, I’m learning and thinking about how I can incorporate this knowledge in my classroom. As I work with my students helping them to solve their many visual problems, I am also learning new solutions for my own work.”

the South High ROTC unit. “I believe my responsibility is to give (students) some guidance, to help them choose wisely,” the art teacher said. “A rock band, for instance, is not suitable for a congressional art show — that’s why it’s military.” Of course Valadez did all of the actual work on the painting, which included taking a photo of Underwood, transferring the image to a canvas, painting it in black and white except for the officer’s service stripes, which are in gold, and then going online to find the 35 service patches he incorporated into the artwork’s 48-square grid. This is the second time a student of Washington’s has won such an award. A year ago, Sarah Fanucchi took first place in a similar contest sponsored by Congressman Jim Costa of Fresno, whose district at the time includ-

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANK WASHINGTON

South High art student Jose Valadez with his prize-winning portrait. ed parts of Kern County just as — as an artist and as a teacher — Valadao’s does now. a person who believes in giving In 2010, another student, his students that extra push that Andrew Frausto won the top state young people sometimes need. award from the California Art His teaching methods are cenEducators Association, an honor tered on the individual. The that included a weekend in New approach he takes with each stuYork City for the student, his dent is different, because he recbrother and his teacher. ognizes that each one comes to And last year Washington got a class with a different set of skills. prestigious award himself by get“I kind of like to raise the bar for ting second place in an internakids and tell them what I expect tional competition sponsored by of them,” he said. “Once they Artist’s Magazine. His pop-art gain self-confidence and come to portrait of his son J.R. was also believe in themselves it becomes published in the magazine. a little easier for them to see some It seems obvious that Washingof the things I’m asking them to ton is dedicated to his profession do are beginning to make sense.”

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Michele Waugh

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street “You say cherry and people say, ‘Where are they?’ …” — Abel Varela, produce supervisor at Murray Family Farms

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER SMITH

A pie-eating contest at last year’s Cherry Festival at Murray Family Farms.

Cherry Festival worth a pit stop Enjoy all things cherry with treats, contests, entertainment BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

ith so much going on this weekend, you really need to cherrypick your activities. Luckily, Murray Family Farms makes that easy with its second annual Cherry Festival. “(Cherries are) something that everybody is drawn to,” said Abel Varela, produce supervisor at Murray Family Farms. “You say cherry and people say, ‘Where are they?’ … Cherries remind them of their childhood.” On Saturday, prepare to celebrate all things cherry with a variety of fruit and sweets, a seed-spitting contest, entertainment and more. The only thing you won’t be able to do is pick your own cherries — but they’re working on it. “On our property, we bring cherries in (from our other location on Copus Road). We’re growing trees to pick. It’ll be about another year to mature. They’re 2-year-old trees; it’s a minimum three years (to maturity).” Like those trees, the festival is continuing to grow, with organizers moving it up to reflect the season. “Cherries came into season about a week and half ago. Last year we had it later, in late May. We want to have it earlier (this year), bring in more people. We wanted to get people excited about cherries.”

Cherry Festival When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Murray Family Farms, 6700 General Beale Road Admission: $7.99; children 3 and under admitted free Information: 330-0100

Even later in the season, last year’s turnout was impressive, according to media coordinator Jennifer Smith, who counted 1,000 attendees. A variety of cherries will be offered for tastings, including Minnie Royal, Royal Rainier, Flavor Giant, Champagne Coral, Brooks, Tulare, Sequoia and GG1. To further tempt visitors, the Cal-Okie Kitchen will serve a sweet selection of cherry dishes: brownies, pies, cobblers, muffins, scones, cake, nut fudge, ice cream and cherry lemonade smoothies. The bounty extends to the entertainment with employee Andrew Carrillo performing acoustic folk music as Andrew’s Royalties. Murray tour guide and resident artist Mimi Ramos will also perform along with her Latin dance group. Regular farm fun will also be in full effect with the giant jumping pillow, hayrides, kids’ play area and petting zoo. If you want to help provide the entertainment, join the seed-spitting contest, which was a popular show last year. “The winner of last year’s (contest) spit 18 to 20 feet,” Varela said. “We had a 12foot marker and they spit way over that.”

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street This Week’s Obsessions

Hitting the hotel jackpot in Vegas Stratosphere may not be on the Strip, but visitors won’t mind

ust got back from my buddy’s wedding in Las Vegas, where I discovered that all is not lost if you happen to be exiled — as we were — from staying on the Strip. When I called to book a room, all the hotels on the Strip were full for the Mayweather fight Saturday night. I'm one of those people who likes to get the best deal on rooms, but I also like to stay close to all the stuff I want to do while I’m in town. The people (computers? robots?) at Hotwire.com offered us a killer deal at the Stratosphere, so we took it. It's pretty far from the Strip, so we were a little apprehensive. Guess what? It was pretty great. The

rooms were clean and spacious, the service was really good, and the restaurants were a lot better than we expected. The wait at the Top of the World was longer than we thought we could survive after the marathon drive, so they steered us to McCall's Heartland Grill, and it was fantastic. Really great food and drinks, and mercifully not overpriced. We spent a fair amount of time up on the observation deck, which hotel guests get to enjoy for free. All others pay $18. There's a selection of four wacky/terrifying rides up there if you're not acrophobic. If you are, I suggest seeking your entertainment elsewhere. So if you have a trip to Vegas in your future and you don't mind a five-minute drive to downtown, give the Stratosphere a look. And when you go, get out of town before noon if you don't want to spend seven hours on I-15. And you don't.

Scott Cox, who hosts “First Look with Scott Cox” on KERN-1180 and Bakersfield.com from 7 to 10 a.m. weekdays, is a regular contributor to the Eye Street section.

Promising new singer Between my radio job and my music magazine review gig, I get sent a lot of CDs. I mean stacks and stacks of them. Some days they show up at the station and other days they fill up my mailbox. I try to listen to them all, which is usually pretty easy if the albums are from bands that I’m familiar with. Trickier are the ones that are from newcomers, people who frequently haven't made names for themselves in the biz yet. But I play those too because I figure that somebody went to all the trouble to get them to me, so it's the least I can do. Well a friend of mine recently sent a CD to me, professing to want nothing more than my unvarnished opinion, which is pretty daring, considering I'm not known as much of an opinion varnisher. The album is by a girl from Paso Robles, of all places, named Cheyenne McDonald. I was not too keen on another CD by another teen country wannabe, but I gave the thing a spin anyway. As it turns out, she can sing! In a world where aspiring teenage girl singers are worth considerably less than a dime a

dozen, this kid stands out. She's obviously got pipes, but — more impressive — she has just enough grit in that velvety voice to keep you listening. Still, she’s not quite where she needs to be yet. She'll need to get out in the world and sing live. A lot. But this kid — she’s only 16 — has a versatility that defies her age. And while she's out there playing and singing, she'll live a lot more life, which will add body and character to her songwriting. Learn more about her at cheyennemcdonald.com.

‘Iran Man 3’ in IMAX Anyone who’s as much of a comic book nerd as I am has already seen “Iron Man 3” by now. (Two sentence review: The character-driven movie is a lot more Tony Stark and a lot less Iron Man. Ben Kingsley, as the baddie, totally steals the show.) But even if you’ve seen the movie, you haven’t really seen it until you watch it in an IMAX theater in 3D, as we did on our recent Vegas trip. The sound and visuals jumped off the screen. It's a state-of-theart production in every way. These are Scott Cox’s opinions, not necessarily those of The Californian.

One To Watch: Sequoia Whitten

Understudy makes a splash in ‘Mermaid Jr.’ musical BY JENNIFER SELF Californian lifestyles editor jself@bakersfield.com

hey both learn their lines, hit their marks, rehearse with the cast and hope for the best. But there’s one key difference between a star and an understudy: Applause. The star, if she’s good, basks in it while the understudy listens wistfully backstage. But it was the understudy who took her well-deserved bow last weekend at The Empty Space, where the children’s theater workshop known as Tonicism mounted a spirited rendition of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” I was there for all three performances to see my daughter, who had a small role in the undersea chorus. But when my eyes weren’t on my own child, I, like every other parent in the audience, was captivated by star-in-the-making Sequoia Whitten, who gave a luminous performance in two of the shows after a scheduling conflict and then another mishap sidelined

the original Ariel for all but the Saturday performance. The bright-eyed Whitten, who turned 13 Monday, perfectly captured the restless mermaid’s questing spirit and the eternal push-pull of excitement and anxiety that all teens feel at the prospect of venturing out into the world. She even nailed the gangly elegance required to play Ariel, perhaps the most typically adolescent and awkward of all the Disney princesses. But it was when the young actress sang her show-stopping number, “Part of Your World” — unleashing a voice soaring and pure — that she seemed to transcend the rest of the proceedings, prompting a nearby audience member to whisper in disbelief: “She’s the understudy?” And that’s nothing against Gigi Killebrew, originally cast as Ariel, who did a fine job herself in the Saturday performance. Other standouts were Lexi Cabral as Ursula and Gracie Darling and Josephine Dethlefson as her minions; Whitney Bacon as Sebastian, Elleigh Davis as Scuttle and in his first stage performance, Diego

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIMBERLY DINSDALE

Diego Rodriquez, Griffin Hall, Sequoia Whitten, Kenna Dinsdale and Whitney Bacon (under the table) perform in Tonicism Productions’ presentation of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid Jr.” at The Empty Space.

Rodriguez as Grimsby; the kid has an undeniable spark. One to Watch is an occasional feature whose purpose is to highlight people in our

community doing worthwhile things. If you’d like to nominate someone for the feature, email Lifestyles Editor Jennifer Self at jself@bakersfield.com.

Materials must be emailed, dropped off or postmarked by May 13. Photos will not be returned. Email collegebound@bakersfield.com; drop off at

The Californian, 1707 Eye St.; or mail to College Bound Seniors, The Bakersfield Californian, P.O. Bin 440, Bakersfield, CA 93302.

COLLEGE-BOUND SENIORS The Californian will salute students in our college-bound seniors issue in May. We need the student’s full name, photo,

high school, name of college, submitter’s name and phone number (which will not be published). Email is preferred.

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

A day just for the girls (and moms) we love Block party, movie set for Saturday at Fox Theater BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

A date with mom for only $1? As you wish. On Saturday — Mother’s Day Eve — the folks at the Fox Theater Foundation along with sponsors Dignity Health are hosting their first-ever Girls Day Out, an afternoon of fun activities for the ladies (and their men), culminating with a screening of the classic tale of true love, “The Princess Bride.” “We just want people to come out and enjoy themselves,” said Rick Davis, president of the foundation, “and give moms and daughters and grandmas a day to be together.” This event is the first in the Fox’s summer movie series, which will continue throughout June and July. Davis is hoping repeat visits to the downtown landmark will help “bring people back in touch with their fond memories of the Fox Theater.” The day begins at 10:30 a.m., with a healthy living “block party.” The area of 20th Street outside the theater will be shut down, and Dignity Health, in an attempt to promote awareness of women’s health issues, will provide

Girls Day Out When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday Where: The Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Admission: Block party, free; movie tickets, $1. Can be bought in advance or on the day of the show, cash only. Information: 324-1369

free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, as well as heart health assessments. Seamus Finn-Chandler, owner of the new downtown cooking club, Sustenance 101, will offer tips on how to cook and eat healthier and a personal trainer will give pointers on how to maximize your workouts and stay in tip-top shape. You may want to listen, too, considering the concession stand will be cooking up hot dogs and fresh popcorn for, you guessed it, only $1 each. “I guess that’s what you’d call an oxymoron,” laughed Davis. “All this talk about health and healthy living, then you come inside and we’re gonna sell you popcorn, sodas and hot dogs for a buck apiece!” And a complimentary rose will be handed to the first 200 mothers who

walk through the door by a handsome Bakersfield firefighter. At noon, local boutique Fashionista will put on a fashion show. “The theater in its day hosted lots of fashion shows,” Davis said. “It was a very popular function in the ’60s and ’70s. At our show, we’re going to have anywhere from seven to 10 models — all volunteers — and it’s going to be a lot of fun. It’s a great way for girls and ladies to see the new clothes for sale at Fashionista.” The movie will begin immediately following the fashion show, which Davis estimates will be somewhere around 12:20 p.m. The day’s sponsors, responsible for keeping the ticket prices so low, picked the flick — a pitch-perfect tale of a farm boy’s quest to rescue his love from the clutches of an evil prince. All proceeds from the day go directly into the theater’s restoration fund. “I remember going to the Fox Theater with my mom and dad,” said Davis. “There are people in the community who have longtime memories of coming to the Fox. Our goal is to provide inexpensive events, and a place to bring the family together for a positive experience. We’re promoting a part of Bakersfield and American history.”

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 9, 2013

Eye Street Go & Do Today CSUB Athletics Spring Barbecue, (More on Page 25) Miranda Lambert: Locked & ReLoaded Tour, featuring Dierks Bentley, Randy Houser, Joanna Smith, 8 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $27 to $51. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Stuff the Tent Cash for Camp, fundraiser for disabled children to attend Camp Blue Jay program, drive in to stuff the tent with monetary donations, 7 a.m. to noon, Keller Williams Realty, 5351 Olive Drive or 1100 Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Society for Disabled Children, 1819 Brundage Lane. 322-5595. Bingo, warmups 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. South Valley Sound Chorus Acapella Practice Night, 7 p.m., ClearView Baptist Church, 203 S. H St. Visit southvalleysound.org or 346-6190.

Friday 99th Commencement Ceremony, 7 p.m., Bakersfield College, Memorial Stadium, 1801 Panorama Drive. Free. 395-4256. “A Mother’s Heart” Shopping & Luncheon, vendors, 11:30 a.m., The Petroleum Club, 5060 California Ave., 12th floor. $20. 27th annual Bakersfield Jazz Festival, (More on Page 22). Bakersfield Blaze vs. Modesto Nuts, 7:30 Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sam Lynn Ball Park, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. 2013 Congressional Art Competition Reception (More on Page 30) CSUB Alumni Party in the Park, featuring wine tasting, micro brews, food and silent auction, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., CSUB, Alumni Park, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $45 before May 9; $55 day of the event. 654-3211. Driller Football Hall of Fame Banquet, dinner, silent auction, 6 p.m., Marriott Hotel, 801 Truxtun Ave. $125. 393-4027. FLICS International Cinema Society, presents “Nobody Else but You,” 7:30 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. flics.org or call 428-0354.

Saturday 15th annual Crawfish Festival, music by Bonne Musique Zydeco, The Aviators, Foster & Friends, bounce house, face painting, games, noon to 6 p.m., The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road. $50 presale; $55 day of event; $15 children 12 and under. 831-1413. 2013 Concert Series, with Hotel California — the Eagles Experience, 8 p.m., Bright House Networks Amphitheatre, 11200 Stockdale Highway. $10.

ticketmaster.com or all Ticketmaster outlets or by calling 800-7453000. Spring Greek Food Festival, (More on Page 28). “Artful Care” Mother's Day Inspirational Art Exhibit & Book Signing, with author Aliza McCracken, 1 to 3 p.m., Russo's Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Bakersfield Koi & Water Garden Society Club, meets 10 to 11 a.m., at various locations in Bakersfield. Details, email president@bkwgs.com. Bakersfield Speedway, Modifieds, Sport Modifieds, Street Stocks, Mini Stocks, 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. Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra Concert (More on Page 27). Cherry Festival, (More on Page 31). Democratic Women of Kern Monthly Meeting, Jane Tucker from Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking will speak about current legislation and human trafficking, 9 a.m., The Garden Spot, 3320 Truxtun Ave. $5 members; guests are free. Visit demwomenofkern.com. Free Electronic Waste Recycling Event, 9 a.m. to noon, Bakersfield Veterans Center, 1110 Golden State Highway. nlagness@yahoo.com or 8734011. Girls Day Out, (More on Page 33). Kern Audubon Society Field Trip to Paradise Valley Road in Tehachapi, meet at 6:45 a.m., Park ‘n’ Ride, Stockdale Highway between Real Road and Highway 99. Bring water, snacks and binoculars. kernaudubonsociety.org or 805-0232, 821-7702. Madness over Minter Air Show, (More on Page 5). Model Train Display & Open House, view Central California’s largest model railroad display, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1534 19th St. (entrance to the clubhouse is to the rear and in the alley of Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar). Free. National Train Day Model Train Exhibit, featuring a portable model train display, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Amtrak Station, 601 Truxtun Ave. Free. Nationaltrainday.com. Pet Adoptions, cats from The Cat People, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Petco, 8220 Rosedale Highway. $65 includes spay/neuter, vaccines and leukemia testing. 3274706; pets from the Shafter Animal Shelter; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., PetSmart, 4100 Ming Ave. $75, includes spay/neuter and vaccines. 746-2140. Pyle’s Boys Camp BBQ, with $10,000 in prizes, barbecue tri-tip, noon to 5 p.m., RM Pyles Boys Camp Picnic Area, near Lake Ming. $15 adults; kids under 12 are free. 805-5766 or 703-7663.

Sanctus Real, 7:30 p.m., Olive Knolls Church of the Nazarene, Cafeteria, 6201 Fruitvale Ave. $20 general; $25 gold circle; $35 VIP. Visit jesusshack.com or 324-0638. Shafter Community Coffee with Rep. David Valadao, 8 to 10 a.m., Shafter City Hall, 336 Pacific Ave., Shafter. Free. Visit valadao.house.gov or 559-5825526. St. Jude Dream Home, open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, 14604 Henderson Ave. stjudedreamhome.org or 1-800-3859134. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10859, Rosedale & Ladies Auxiliary, 9:30 a.m., Norris Road Veterans Hall, 400 Norris Road. 5885865.

Sunday CALM’s Mother’s Day Special, mothers and grandmothers will be admitted for Mother’s Day for half price, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. You’ll have a chance to win a free CALM family membership. calmzoo.org or 872-2256. Mother’s Day Brunch, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Valentien Restaurant, 3310 Truxtun Ave., #160. $6 to $34. 864-0397. Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Elks Lodge, 1616 30th St. $10 per person. 323-7535. Mother’s Day Music Fest, noon to 7 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 P St. Free admission and parking. 327-9711. Mother’s Day Painting Party, 11 a.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $25 studio fee plus cost of pieces painted. Includes fruit and pastry buffet. Visit bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366.

THEATER “Cruisin’ Chester” The Musical, (More on Page 24). “Mother Knows Best,” adultthemed comedy show, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-PLAY. “Great Songs from American Musicals,” 6 p.m. Saturday; 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $55. 325-6100. Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Advancement, 8 p.m. Fridays, JC’s Place, 1901 Chester Ave. $5. 322-8209. Major League Improv, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $10. 327-PLAY.

ART Art Exhibit, by Carol Bradshaw, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320. Art Exhibit “Spring — A Breath

of Fresh Air,” by Linda Brown, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806. Exhibits on Display, “Architectural Models, Drawings & Images by Randall Stout,” “Vacancy: Paintings by Matt Condron,” “the Whey (way) n: to center: Drawings by Amie T. Rangel” and “Harry Wilson: The Museum Set,” Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. bmoa.org or 323-7219. 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 Avenue and A Street. Visit mercybakersfield.org/art or to register, 632-5357. Side by Side, for children ages 38, (More on Page 24). The Art Shop Club, a quiet place to paint, 9 a.m. to noon each Thursday, Friday and Saturday, The Art Shop, 1221 20th St. All mediums. New members and guests welcome. 322-0544 or 832-8845. Art Classes, in drawing, watercolor, oils, color theory, for beginners and advanced, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

MUSIC Acoustic Kern River Brewing Company, 13415 Sierra Highway, Kernville, 760-376-2337; Slideways with Tom Corbett, 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Blues Wine Me Up, 3900 Coffee Road, Suite 2, 588-8556; Candace Freeman, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday. Free. Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday, Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517.

Classic rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Blonde Faith, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; Diver Duo, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday. Que Pasa Mexican Cafe, 2701 Ming Ave., 832-5011; Elevation 406, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Thursday. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, Suite 100, 831-1413; Odie Crabtree, 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday; with Blonde Faith, 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Comedy Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; Improv Tuesday — Live comedy with DJ after party, 9 p.m. Tuesdays. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; 7:45 p.m. Thursday. $5. Visit facebook.com/ontherocksbakersfield.

Country Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Wild Blue Rose, 7 to 11 p.m. Friday; Lil Gritty, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday. Fiddlers Crossing, 206 E. F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; Juni Fisher, 7 p.m. Saturday. $20. Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive, 3922010; The Pals Band, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday (except the third Wednesday). Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane, 392-2030; The Pals Band, 10:30 a.m. to noon every Thursday (except the third Thursday). Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Vince Galindo, 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Trout’s & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; Red Simpson, 7 p.m. Monday; Steve Woods, 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays. Free.

Dancing 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. DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court, 323-7111; learn Salsa, Cumbia or West Coast Swing, 4 to 7 p.m. every Sunday. $5 per person per lesson. 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 Drive, offers ballroom dance, East Coast swing (jitterbug) and Argentine Tango dance classes; $35, $45 for nonmembers. 322-5765 or 201-2105. Joaquin Squares, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Rasmussen Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5. 324-1390, 325-3086 or 399-3658. Mavericks Singles, ballroom and country dancing with music by Country George and his Band, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $7 member; $9 guest. 831-9241. Studio 9 Dance, 4000 Easton Drive, Suite 9, 333-3178; basic West Coast swing, 7 p.m. Wednesday. Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; two-step, West Coast swing, line dance lessons, 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays; West Coast swing, 6 p.m. Fridays. $5.

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

Thursday, May 9, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 3237111; 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. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; DJ Chuck One, 9 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday. Free. 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; Ken Bausano, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday; Terry Huston, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday; Jay Parson, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; Mark Meyer and Steve Eisen, 6 to 8:30 p.m.; Joe’s Ten Revival, 6 to 8:30 p.m. 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. The Nile, Jazz Music, 6 p.m. every Sunday. Cost $10 at 1721 19th St. 364-2620.

Karaoke Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fridays. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursdays and Sundays. Best Western, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; The Junction with host Mac Clanahan, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Big Daddy Pizza, 6417 Ming Ave., 396-7499; 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday; 8 to 11 p.m. every Friday. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; A to Z Karaoke, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays. 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. Don Perico Restaurant, 2660 Oswell St., Suite 133, 871-2001; 7

to 11 p.m. Thursdays. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court; 3237111, 8 p.m. to midnight Tuesdays. El Torito Restaurant, 4646 California Ave., 395-3035, Karaoke with Irish Monkey Entertainment, 8 p.m. Saturdays. Elevation Lounge, 818 Real Road, 325-6864; 9 p.m. 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. Lone Oak Inn, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 10612 Rosedale Highway. 589-0412. Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; 9:30 p.m. Friday to 1:30 a.m. Saturday. Long Branch Saloon, 907 N. Chester Ave., 399-8484; 8 p.m. every Wednesday. 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. 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; Joey Zaza’s Karaoke and Stuff, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, 836-2700; 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Round Table Pizza, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Rusty’s Pizza, 5430 Olive Drive, 392-1482; 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; 6 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Sky Bar and Lounge, 4208 Rosedale Highway, 633-1116, Karaoke with Ben Lara, 7 to 11 p.m. Tuesdays. 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.

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 Lounge, 2915 Taft Highway; 397-3599; 7 to 10 p.m. Sundays. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; hosted by Ed Loverr, 9 p.m. to midnight Friday. The Regent, 2814 Niles St., 8714140; 8:30 p.m. Fridays. The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. every Thursday. Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, 1440 Weedpatch Highway. 363-5102. 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.

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

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

Open mic Poetry Open Mic, featuring poet Estella Aguilar of “My Absolute Fragile Essence,” others are welcome to bring a poem to read, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. today, Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686. Fiddlers Crossing, 206 E. F St., Tehachapi, 823-9994; 7 p.m. Wednesdays. $5. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; musicians, spoken word, poets, comedians, 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Free.

Pop On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; Therese & the Sweetness, Kenny & The Clones, 9 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday. $5.

Reggae On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; Amity Flow, 9 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday. $10.

Rock KC Steakhouse, 2515 F St., 3229910; Jimmy Gaines, 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; Jimmy Gaines, Bobby O and Mike Hall, 6:30 to 11:30 p.m., featuring Glenda Robles, 8 to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. B. Ryder's Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Meditated Assault, 9 p.m. Friday, $5. 21 and over only; Rearview Mirror, Mother Puncher, Rauch, 9 p.m. Saturday. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday.

Soft rock Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, 588-9463; 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Free.

Songwriters The Bistro, 5105 California Ave., 323-3905; Brent Brown, 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays.

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. On the Rocks, 1517 18th St., 3277625; 8 to 10 p.m. Monday. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Variety Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., 872-2037, Joe Loco Duet, 2 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 323-0053; Mike Montano, 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday. Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; The Blackboard Playboys, 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $5 after 8 p.m.

class, includes snack and art supplies. 869-2320 or 330-2676. Project Linus Community Blanket Day, we provide blankets for local children who are ill or traumatized, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Strawberry Patches, 6433 Ming Ave. Visit projectlinusbakersfield.com or 589-1854.

Wednesday 5/15 Cody Canada & The Departed, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $11.50-$14.50. vallitix.com or 3225200. Giulio Cesare Encore Opera Concert Live Satellite, provided by the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, 6:30 p.m., Edwards Cinema, 9000 Ming Ave. $18. 6633042. Greater World Gift, with jewelry, baskets, gift items from Third World countries; 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays; and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays, First Congregational Church, 5 Real Road. 327-1609. Kern Audubon Society Bike Ride, meet at 8 a.m., at Manor Drive and Denise Avenue parking lot. Bring water, snacks, and binoculars. Visit kernaudubonsociety.org or 805-0232. Ride of Silence, in memory of those bicyclists who have died while riding their bikes, join us for a casual nine-mile ride, 6:30 p.m., meet in the Town and Country parking lot, near Bagels and Blenders, 8200 Stockdale Highway. Helmets mandatory, lights recommended. Visit bikebakersfield.org, email brad@bikebakersfield.org, or 321-9247.

Thursday 5/16 Third Thursdays Faire in the Park, entertainment, barbecue, arts and crafts, games, contests, farmer’s market, 5:30 p.m., Central Park at Mill Creek, 21st and R streets. 325-5892.

Friday 5/17

Upcoming Events Monday 5/13 Children’s Art Class: Birds, with artist Charlotte White, for ages 4 to 5, includes drawing, sculpture, collage, crafts, color theory, blending, value scale, perspective, printing and painting with acrylics, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. $10 per class, includes snack and art supplies. 869-2320 or 330-2676. Ice McDonald in “Celebrities Of Magic,” part of Ron Saylor’s show, 7:30 p.m., Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $20. 587-3377.

R&B

Tuesday 5/14

Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; Rebecca Aguilar, Lost Vinyl, 9 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday. Señor Pepe, 8450 Granite Falls Drive, 588-0385, Rebecca Aguilar and Lost Vinyl, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday.

Children’s Art Class: Birds, with artist Charlotte White, for grades seventh through ninth, includes drawing, sculpture, collage, crafts, color theory, blending, value scale, perspective, printing and painting with acrylics, 4 to 6 p.m., Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. $20 per

“Cruisin’ Chester” 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. “The Nerd,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15; $10 students and seniors. 327-PLAY. 10-Year Celebration & Dinner Banquet, come join us as we celebrate serving foster children and former foster youth in Kern County, hear stories filled with hope, 6:30 p.m., The Bridge Bible Church, 12225 Stockdale Highway. $75. Call Scott at 829-6999. Fifth annual Bakersfield Biggest Baddest BBQ, food, music by Mento Buru, vendors, 5 to 9 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. Free admission on Friday; $10 adults; children 12 and under are free (Saturday). Includes barbecue tasting ticket. Proceeds benefit and JJ’s Legacy and Mendiburu Magic Foundation. bakobbq.com or 331-3900.