Eye Street Entertainment / 5 - 23 - 13

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

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

Index Craft Beer Festival.................................... 22 Big change at East Hills theater.............. 23 Scott Cox .................................................. 25 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 26 Korn on personal mission........................ 26 Masterworks Chorale .............................. 28 Hobo Breakfast........................................ 29 Calendar .............................................. 34-35

CHAPTER FIVE: Seeking answers You see, this is a recurring puzzle. Like the sense of having words on the tip of your tongue but no ability to form them.

You know the answer will come when you least expect it. Until next time, my late night visitor, I will hum the tune and ponder.

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Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

“My work shows that I think outside the box. I don't paint in traditional colors and lines.

I am not professionally trained, so my art is raw.”

— Christina Sweet

A protagonist steps to the fore Sweet brings pensive woman into our story

BY MATT MUNOZ Californian staff writer mmunoz@bakersfield.com

F

ive chapters in to the story about a mysterious figure in a courtyard, we finally have a protagonist: a woman staring pensively into space.

“I sat to write my segment of the story first,” said artist Christina Sweet of her Eye Gallery assignment. “I wanted to move the story along, closing one chapter, and leave it wide open for the next artist. I also introduced the main character as a woman.

While applying the paint, I kept the layers light and watered down to allow the wood grain to be exposed. I feel it gives it an additional textural look.”

Sweet, like the artists who came before her, was given 96 hours and, for reference, the chapters and artwork created to that point. Last week’s installment, by artist Al Mendez, was a striking painting of a wave, but it did represent a bit of a visual departure from the series so far, creating an opportunity for Sweet.

“The biggest challenge was trying not to be too influenced by the painting just before mine, and to create something that would fit as a whole with all the preceding works.

“I love a challenge. This body of work is interesting to me in that it is progressive. It could take a turn at any time.”

As artist, curator and founder of The Foundry art gallery, Sweet, 34, has become a prominent voice in the local art scene in just a few short years. Sweet’s work and role at The Foundry have become a driving engine of the First Friday art walk, and she’s used her influence to help encourage the careers of the gallery’s 80-plus members while nurturing future talents, including her three young daughters: Shelby, Emily and Audrey.

“It is my life's passion to encourage arts to children. At The Foundry, we are starting art education workshops to help facilitate that this summer. I'm also strongly driven to expose up-andcoming artists and help them learn how to succeed in their craft.”

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.

Adding to her list of art-related accolades, Sweet was named The Californian’s breakout artist of 2012.

“I enjoy colorful art. Artworks that tell a story all within itself speak to me most. On the other hand, I most enjoy creating art that is more representational but in an abstract style and color palette.”

How long you’ve been painting: Since the age of 10.

Memory of the first time you sold a piece of work: Age 14. I painted 23 characters over two walls in a baby's nursery.

What were hoping to convey to the viewer with this piece: An emotion. The character is left confused and anxious, but this feeling is familiar to her and she has to move on.

Favorite artists: I’d have to say my favorite artist of all time is Andy Warhol. I love his bold presentation. I can’t say I have an absolute local favorite. I enjoy the works of so many local artists, for many different reasons.

When did art become a passion: I found my niche here in town just four to five years ago. I've always practiced. My mother kept me very busy as a child and teen painting murals in the house and canvas pieces. I knew from the first wall mural I did at age 10 that it was my passion. I just didn't know how to drive it.

The work I'm proudest of: My piece titled “RUN!,” that was exhibited at Metro Galleries for last year’s Latination art show.

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

As artist, curator and founder of The Foundry art gallery, Christina Sweet, 34, has become a prominent voice in the local art scene in just a few short years.

Next week Our late-night visitor returns in Chapter Six, but artist Byron Rhodes senses his intentions are good.

I feel it opened a gateway for me and my new style.

Your most supportive mentor: As far as biggest supporter goes, I’d have to say my team at

The Foundry. Our members are always so helpful. They truly cheer us on and make it all worth it for me. Foundry aside, I would say Don Martin of Metro Galleries. He is encouraging and has the know-how to help or give advice at every turn. He is a hardworking arts community pioneer in my eyes.

What your art says about you: My work shows that I think outside the box. I don't paint in

traditional colors and lines. I am not professionally trained, so my art is raw.

Some of your non-art passions: I love to bake and cook. I enjoy time in the kitchen most while home. I love trying new recipes.

Feeding my family makes my heart happy.

How to learn more about my work: csweetart.com and bakersfieldfoundry.com

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street Welcomes

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lthough Budweiser bills itself as the “King of Beers,” it’s no match for a god. Coming down from the heavens (of Lengthwise Brewery), Zeus Imperial IPA will make its debut Saturday as part of the firstever Bakersfield Craft Beer Festival.

And by now, it may take divine intervention to land a ticket.

The VIP tables are gone and only a few dozen tickets remained as of Tuesday for the unique event, the brainchild of three local businesses known for their support of craft brewing: Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, Eureka! Gourmet Burgers & Craft Beer and Moo Creamery.

“At the other beer events in Bakersfield, there is really no focus on craft beer at all,” said James Brown, Eureka assistant general manager. “It’s a location for people to go and drink as much as they can. This (festival) is going to be only craft beer. We’re trying to make it a classy event. ... Beer tasting rather than beer drinking.”

More than 20 breweries from California and beyond will staff their booths with representatives wellversed in the seasonal and other brews they will serve.

“We wanted it (the festival) to be about education and exposure,” said Tamera Dobbs, co-owner of Imbibe.

“I think the most significant difference (from local beer events) is having reps from the breweries on site.

It’s not just go fill up your glass.

They’re talking about the beers and

THE CALIFORNIAN

Kern River Brewing Company is among the brewers that will offer their best at the inaugural Craft Beer Festival.

Craft Beer Festival When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday (early admission 12:30 p.m.)

Where: CSUB Amphitheater, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: $35; $50, early admission. Limited tickets available at Imbibe, Eureka!, Moo Creamery and Lengthwise Brewery.

Information: bakersfieldcraftbeer festival.com

the brewery’s philosophy. That ability to ask questions to someone that knows the answers, compare styles from one brewery to another.”

When asked what beers she’s interested in tasting, Dobbs named the

offerings from Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. out of Fresno and Hangar 24 from Redlands, Chasin’ Freshies IPA from Oregon’s Deschutes Brewery and, of course, the newest Lengthwise brew.

“I love them all, but I really love the local guys.”

Zeus Imperial IPA — an India pale ale with a Centennial Ale base brewed primarily with Zeus and Citra hops — makes quite an impression, said Lengthwise co-owner Jeff Williams.

“It came out at 10 percent alcohol by volume. It’s balanced really well. It’s deceiving, smoother than you would think a 10 percent beer would be. The Citra lends a passion fruit and citrus overtone to it, (which) overwhelms the beer at first and finishes very smooth.”

Along with Zeus, Lengthwise will Please see BEER / 32

East Hills to begin showing latest blockbusters THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

East Bakersfield residents no longer will need to schlep downtown or farther west to see the latest Hollywood releases now that Regency Theatres has converted its East Hills complex to a first-run movie house.

And the theater — which made the shift Wednesday — is already off to a “Fast & Furious” start.

“A large part of our customer base have been requesting we bring in new films,” said Heidi Garcia, of the Calabasas Hills-based theater chain, in an email to The Californian.

New movies slated for screening at the East Hills theater are potential blockbusters “Fast & Furious 6,” starring Vin Diesel; the children’s movie

“Epic”; and “The Hangover Part III,” the last in the boozy trilogy that was shot in part in the Tehachapi area late last summer.

Several older releases, like “Oz: The Great and Powerful” and “Identity Thief,” are still being shown, but soon all 10 screens will feature only new films, said Garcia, who noted the theater will be converted to digital projection.

She declined to say when the upgrade will be made.

Regency bought the theater from United Artists in 2010 and has been showing second-run movies at discounted admission prices since.

With the conversion to first-run features, admission prices will

increase, though they will be lower than they are at Bakersfield’s newer movie theaters, which boast stadium seating and other amenities the 20year-old East Hills complex doesn’t have.

General admission before 6 p.m. is $5, and $7 after. Admission for children and seniors is $5 all day.

Garcia said traffic to the theater has been “strong,” even with the problems East Hills Mall has had over the years attracting tenants and customers.

“Theaters are usually one of the main traffic drivers in a shopping center,” she said. “East Hills is a great trade area and access to the East Hills theater is at the entrance to the mall.”

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

‘Love Chekhov or hate him’ CSUB students take on play by profound playwright

O

ne reason I admire the Russian writer Anton Chekhov is his ability to present life as it is, not as we might wish it to be.

In “The Cherry Orchard,” which opens this evening in Cal State Bakersfield’s Doré Theater, Chekhov is masterful in the way he presents his characters’ actions — or inactions — when they are faced with addressing a problem that affects the future of them all.

The play is set in 1904 during an era when great changes were taking place in Russia’s economic and social structure.

The aristocratic families were crumbling, forced to sell their vast estates to maintain their standard of living while the peasant class, having been released from virtual slavery some years before, was rising.

I asked the director, Maria-Tania Becerra, to comment on ways her students related to some of the themes in the play, such as the family's financial loss and social changes of the time.

“I don't know if the students can relate to the financial loss as the characters lose the estate due to their lack of action,” Becerra said. “I think they can instead relate to the fear the characters have of change.”

Acknowledging that doing Chekhov is a challenge, she said “The Cherry Orchard” has been an excellent learning experience for the student cast.

“To master such a literary genius takes years,” she wrote in an email. “And though I can't say our students have yet mastered him, they have certainly achieved extraordinary leaps in their understanding of the humanity he was trying to express by his plays.”

In this particular play an enormous cherry orchard that is talked about but never seen on stage is the symbol of the Ranevsky family’s wealth and past grandeur.

“It is often said that audiences either love Chekhov or hate him,” Becerra said. “I think that is because he depicts our conversations in a way that really happen; sometimes in circles, sometimes seeming too long, sometimes waiting for something to happen, that never does ... this is life ... and if one understands that, one can see the genius behind the work of Anton Chekhov.”

As the play opens, the matriarch, Lyuba Ranevsky, played by Emily Candia, has just returned from Paris where she has resided for the past five years with a lover

GO & DO ‘The Cherry Orchard’ When: 8 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday Where: CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway.

Admission: $10; $8 seniors (60+) and CSUB faculty/staff; $5 students with ID. Information: 654-3150

‘Magsimula Ibda Comience (Begin Begin Begin)’ Graduating seniors’ art exhibit When: Opening reception, 6-8 p.m. today Where: CSUB Todd Madigan Gallery, 9001 Stockdale Highway.

Information: 654-2238

Artist John Williams lecture When: 4:30 p.m. Tuesday Where: CSUB Albertson Room, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: Free Information: 654-2238

who helped her spend most of her fortune.

She is so caught up in the past with pleasant memories of her childhood, she can't see the future and wants no changes.

On the other hand, a neighbor, Yermolay Lopakhin, portrayed by Miguel Torres, is eager for change.

A former peasant who had a miserable childhood, he is now wealthy and offers to buy the estate.

After much discussion between the main characters and others — the cast includes about 15 actors — Lopakhin ends up buying the estate. Thus the orchard, the symbol of the past, will be destroyed to make way for low-cost cottages for homeowners whose fortunes are rising.

“The Cherry Orchard” continues next weekend with evening performances at 8 p.m. on May 30-31 and June 1 and a matinee at 2 p.m. on June 2.

Graduating seniors show “Magsimula Ibda Comience (Begin Begin Begin).” That’s the title of the CSUB senior art students exhibition whose reception is this evening at the Todd Madigan Gallery.

And upon reading it, I was intrigued with what it might mean. So, not being a linguist, I asked Madigan Gallery curator Joey Kotting to explain it.

Here’s what he said.

“Magsimula means ‘begin’ in Tagalog, which is a language spoken by about a quarter of the Philippine population; idba

Camille Gavin’s “Arts Alive” column appears on Thursday.

Write to her via e-mail at gavinarts@aol.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANDY REES

Miguel Torres, left, and Hudson Sanders appear in CSUB’s “The Cherry Orchard.”

means ‘begin’ in Arabic; and comience means ‘begin’ in Spanish. Hence, begin, begin, begin.

“These are the four languages spoken by our graduating students,” Kotting said.

“Not that all the students are all proficient in these languages, but at least one of the students uses the language.”

The cultural history of each student is quite often reflected in their work, he added, which coincides with the goals of the art department faculty to help those majoring in art to think of their personal background as an asset as they go forward into the ever-expanding global culture.

Thirty students are participating in the show, which includes installation art, animation, performance art, sculpture and painting, as well drawing and video. The exhibit can be seen during the gallery’s usual hours, 1-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, through June 14.

Los Angeles-based contemporary artist John Williams has been asked to judge the student exhibit and will present the best of show award, The George, named for the late George Ketterl, a professor of painting at CSUB. Williams will present the award as part of a lecture on his own work and practice at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the Albertson Room, adjacent to the gallery.

BCT’s plans for 2013-14 Kenneth Whitchard, artistic director of Bakersfield Community Theatre, has announced the playhouse’s 2013-14 season, which is made up of four main stage shows and three youth theater productions.

The selections were approved by Edward French, executive director, and members of the board: Drew Hallum, Christian Frederickson, Karynn Whitchard, Jessica Aleman, Janice French, Pat Kerley and Bruce

Tisler. At present, only the month each show will be performed is available. Specific run dates will be announced later, Whitchard said.

August: 26th Annual One Acts Festival Short plays written by Tammy Lynde, Porter Jamison, Mike Bedard, Jeannie Hart, Norman Colwell and Christian Frederickson.

October: “Holka Polka,” a good witch sets out to save “Fairy Tale Land” with the help of the Big Bad Wolf and Cinderella.

November: “BCT Live: The Variety of Bakersfield” Highlights the talent of some of Kern County’s finest performers — vocal, dramatic, dance and instrumental.

December: “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” In this comic Christmas tale a couple struggling to put on a church Christmas pageant are faced with casting the Herdman kids — probably the most inventively awful kids in history.

February: “Four Little Girls: Birmingham 1963” BCT’s annual salute to Black History Month, this is the story of four children who attended the 16th Street Baptist Church and how they share their hopes and dreams against the backdrop of the civil rights movement.

March: “Steel Magnolias” Set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, La., where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. A memorable play filled with hilarity to balance the inevitable reality of our mortality.

July: “The Weird Wild and Wonderful Days of School” Every day young adults are dealing with the challenge of growing up. This story follows young people as they tackle the everyday challenges of who they were, are and will become.

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Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Scott Cox CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

This hungry judge ready for seconds A lot more than eating goes into being an expert

I

am a huge barbecue fan, and I’ve eaten well more than my share of it at smokehouses all over the country.

But last weekend, during my debut as a certified Kansas City Barbecue judge at Bakersfield’s Biggest, Baddest BBQ competition, there was more on the line than just filling my belly. There were prizes and pride on the line, which meant I needed to really taste the food and not just let it rocket down my gullet. Teams came from all over the country and spent a weekend preparing world-class food that I got to take one or two bites of.

Instead of sitting down to a plate of food, I sat down with 60 other judges, and they brought the food to us. We’d get six or seven pieces of chicken, then ribs, then pork, and finally brisket. It was like speed dating with food. I met some really cool people, ate some truly great food, and learned a lot. It doesn’t pay anything, but you get to take home all the food you tasted — which means I have a bunch of plastic bags full of pieces of meat with bites out of them. Cold ribs

Bakersfield’s Biggest Baddest barbecuer is ... ... Dave Malone from Valencia, crowned grand champion at the contest on Saturday, according to Mike George, who coordinates the event.

Malone, who took home a check for $2,500, has won the top prize three out of the five years of the local competition, George said.

The top local finishers were: Jeff Pollock, of My Smokin’ Grillfriend, who took seventh in pork.

Curtis Trigueiro, of Ridge Route Boys BBQ, who took seventh in brisket.

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

The food is the star at the Biggest, Baddest BBQ competition.

for lunch the day after they're made are fantastic, and so is brisket chili.

I had such a good time, I went so far as sending an email to an event organizer on the Central Coast to see if they need judges while I’m on vacation there. I highly recommend you consider taking a class to become a certified judge, which comes with the bonus of allowing you to be totally snooty the next time your

friends invite you to their barbecues. (I'm pretty sure everyone looks forward to a scathing critique of their cooking.)

I’m so hooked that if anyone out there has a food contest coming up and you need a judge, I’m your huckleberry.

end in May at the American Music Jam at Gruene Hall in New Braunfels, Texas, but since we just started this “First Look” show, vacations were off the table. As one would expect, I was dreading the weekend, and the 6,000 texts and emails from my Texas pals weren't helping. But then Cody hit the stage with a blistering set at the Crystal Palace. I cannot thank Jerry Hufford over there enough for booking these Americana bands. I got through the weekend, and I'll be back in New Braunfels next year, mainly to hang out backstage and lobby bands to put Bakersfield on their touring schedules. I have found the best trick is to sell them on our town as an escape from the oppressive Texas humidity. Once they get here, I ply them with Dewar's. It's worked pretty well so far.

Canada to the rescue Cody Canada & The Departed rolled into town last week, snatching me from the pit of despair. See, I generally spend the third week-

Dad was right all along I don't know why it is that we all wait until geniuses die before we really seek out their art, but that’s what I’ve been doing lately, borrowing quite a few George Jones records from my dad. I had a few on vinyl myself,

but the old man is a proper collector. I've spent more than a few hours sitting on my living room floor playing those rare masterpieces. George Jones was one tremendous singer, and I wish I’d gotten these records sooner.

I also wish I’d listened to my dad about music earlier in life. It took awhile to figure out that the old guy was right about most of this stuff all along. Mostly all this George Jones music has made me really miss country music, the real stuff.

But I take solace in the fact that there's a huge amount of the real thing out there that I haven't heard yet. Who knows: Maybe there are some Waylon Jennings bootlegs I can get my hands on.

I'll keep looking. Last week I found a CD copy of Ray Charles' “Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music” at Goodwill.com for $2. I highly recommend that you all keep your eyes peeled for the good stuff too.

If you ever run across a copy of George Jones’ “My Very Special Guests,” grab it, regardless of the price. It's got George singing with everybody from Emmylou Harris to Elvis Costello. If nothing else, you can sell it to me. I'm pretty sure Pop is going to want his back pretty soon.

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26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Artists work it out at Rabobank Rehearsal space a draw for cost, proximity to LA

L

ast week’s visit by Latin singer Juanes was no average tour stop.

The Grammy-winning artist, who kicked off his “Loud & Unplugged” tour before a full house at Rabobank Theater on Friday, spent a number of days rehearsing and doing press below the radar.

But Juanes isn’t the only megastar attracted to Bakersfield.

“Rehearsal requests are about one to two times a year,” said Ed Dorsey, Rabobank Arena assistant general manager, of the frequency of inquiries into renting the venue.

“Whether they happen or not depends on venue availability.

There are other venues that do a lot more than we do. We have hosted Elton John, Jewel, Trey Anastasio from Phish, Neil Diamond, Korn, Britney Spears, Incubus (twice), Journey, Foo Fighters (twice) and Juanes. We have also hosted two-week rehearsal periods with Disney On Ice.” A number of factors account for the city’s appeal, Dorsey said.

“One reason is Bakersfield is close to Los Angeles, but not too close. Neil Diamond and Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) stayed in Los Angeles and commuted up each day to rehearse. The other — and more important — reason is because we are reasonably priced and they can get their work done,” said Dorsey of the rehearsal fee, which starts at $1,500

a day.

“We provide what they need and leave them alone. They usually have a lot to do in a very short period of time.”

While most artists have a tight schedule, others block out personal time to explore the city, Dorsey said. During Foo Fighters’ last visit, Grohl was spotted shopping at the Valley Plaza, with fans posting photos online as proof.

“If they want to see or do something, we will provide options. Most frequent requests are setting up a golf outing or going to the Crystal Palace. Some people know about Bakersfield and what we have to offer. I have a production friend who every time he comes through, he has to go to Wool Growers, period. And then there are others who couldn’t care less.”

In addition to rehearsing and meeting with press from around the globe last Thursday, Juanes made time for several lucky members of the United Farm Workers of America, who were treated to an hourlong rehearsal performance and meet-and-greet with the performers at Rabobank.

Cali Roots Festival The award for coolest gig of the year — so far — goes to Bakersfield reggae rock trio Dub Seeds.

The easygoing brethren of allthings-irie are headed to the soldout California Roots Music Festival this weekend in Monterey, considered the Woodstock of the state’s reggae scene.

Dub Seeds guitarist and vocalist Chris Taylor said he and bassist Gary Rink and drummer Anthony “Gizmo” Rodriguez have been savoring every moment since being notified by festival organizers.

“It feels amazing, like this is a peaking moment as a band,” said Taylor of landing the coveted

PHOTO BY JORGE GUILLEN

Latin singer Juanes performs for a group of lucky members of the United Farmer Workers of America at Rabobank Arena on May 16.

spot, determined by an online voting contest. “We’ve been trying to get in the past two years.

We finally got in touch with one of the organizers, who said he might be able to get us in. About six months ago, we were put into the contest, and our fans voted us in.”

The lineup of the three-day outdoor festival, which kicks off on Friday, features a who’s who of the genre, including: Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, Dirty Heads, Expendables, Matisyahu, and others who’ve helped expand the hybrid reggae, rock and punk sound from a niche audience into a wildly popular musical subculture. Dub Seeds will take the festival stage on Sunday afternoon.

“We have a 45-minute set, so we’ve been practicing. Most of it

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.

Amy Grant July 24th

PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA MONCRIEF

Dub Seeds is headed to the California Roots Music Festival, which is considered the Woodstock of the state’s reggae scene.

is a lot of mental preparation.

We’re playing the same day as Matisyahu, so we wanna make sure we bring our A game. Everyone that’s everyone is going to be there.”

Rink and Rodriguez, along with

a posse of friends who’ve been planning to attend for months, will head up today to set up camp. Taylor will take off for Monterey Saturday morning.

“Just to be invited to play is Please see LOWDOWN / 31

July 31st

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE FOX THEATER BOX OFFICE, RUSSO’S BOOKS AT THE MARKETPLACE, EMPORIUM WESTERN STORE – 661-322-5200 – 888-825-5484 – Vallitix.com

27

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Colorful, traditional American Indian clothing is worn by many at the annual Standing Bear Powwow.

Honoring tradition means not forgetting Powwow celebrates ‘so many tribes’ this weekend

BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

A

ll weekend long, everything associated with native culture will be celebrated: silvery jewelry, storytelling, dancing, art and ... popcorn?

“People don't realize that a lot of the food that we eat is native,” said Gene Albitre, coordinator of the 17th annual Standing Bear Powwow.

“Potatoes aren’t from Ireland. Jerky and popcorn, that’s all from here. Even tomatoes are native foods.”

Dancers, artisans and other presenters will converge on the fairgrounds for the event, which gives attendees a first-hand look at the art and mysticism behind America's first inhabitants.

“This area has such an influx of so many tribes,” Albitre said. “A lot of them were sent to Oklahoma and then they moved here. We also have a lot of local tribes. So this is an intertribal event, and it's really a benefit."

The powwow moved from its longtime home at Bakersfield College to the fairgrounds two years ago, a decision that resulted in making the event more affordable for out-of-town artisans.

“Let’s face it: If you want to bring in really good artists, a lot of them are not making big bucks. So many dancers, drummers and vendors come from so far away they can now actually camp at the fairgrounds.

It gives them a chance to travel farther and show people what they do.”

Performers and craftsmen from as far away as New Mexico and Arizona will be making the trip to Kern County and with them comes the traditional ceremonies, artisan offerings and demonstrations.

Singers and drummers will perform ancestral music, displaying the vastly different styles that evolved in tribes living hun-

17th Annual Standing Bear Powwow When: 5 to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 So. P St. Admission: $6; children 10 and under free Information: 589-3181

dreds of miles apart. Fur pelts, silver jewelry, clothing and embroidery will be available for purchase as well as traditional American Indian foods.

Attendees also will have the opportunity to learn about the food they may overlook in their own backyards.

“We will have presentations on the herbs and plants that are local, so people can get a better understanding of these plants and what they mean.”

In addition to presentations on local and native foods, an obsidian expert will be on hand demonstrating the importance of the black volcanic rock that American Indians transformed into arrow heads, knives and scrapers. For those looking for a more artistic educational experience, a group of basket weavers will giving folks the opportunity to see another invaluable American Indian skill put to work.

It’s the educational aspect of the weekend that is most important to Albitre, not only for attendees but for the families of performers and artists who carry on the decades old traditions.

“It’s not uncommon to see five generations of dancers in a circle,” Albitre said.

“That is when I know that we are doing a good thing. It's important to pass these traditions on to our children and not lose sight of them. When we lose our traditions, we lose our thoughts, caring and our communication.”

28

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

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Conductors converge for 80th anniversary of chorale

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

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T

he Bakersfield Masterworks Chorale celebrates its 80th birthday with a look at its past and an eye to the future.

The chorale will mark the event during their annual fundraiser dinner and concert Saturday, June 1.

“We are celebrating with a set of music that recognizes birthdays,” said choral director Robert Provencio.

The program will include a birthday cantata by English Baroque composer Henry Purcell, plus music by three composers with big birthdays this year: “Va pensiero,” from the opera “Nabucco,” by Giuseppe Verdi, and the Bridal Chorus from the opera “Lohengrin,” by Richard Wagner, both born 200 years ago this year; and the “Te Deum” in C Major by English composer Benjamin Britten, who was born in 1913.

As this is first and foremost a landmark birthday celebration for the chorale, the occasion will be marked with the return of three of four former conductors: Phil Witmer, Jerome Kleinsasser and Phil Dodson, who led the chorale from 1962 to 1991.

“When I came, it was still the Messiah Chorus because that’s all they sang,” Dodson said.

Dodson said he was responsible for the name change and the broadening of the chorale’s repertoire.

“It seemed like a great idea to change the name and do other chorale masterworks,” Dodson said.

Dodson said he also persuaded the

Masterworks Chorale “Sounds of Celebration” dinner concert When: 5:30 p.m. champagne and silent auction, 6:30 dinner, 7:30 live auction and concert, June 1.

Where: Hodel’s Country Dining Liberty Hall, 5917 Knudsen Drive.

Admission: $50. Deadline May 28. Available from any chorale member or by calling Brenda Russell, 391-8465. No tickets will be sold at the door.

chorale to move from its church performing venue (originally the First Baptist Church on Truxtun Avenue) to Harvey Auditorium and later the Civic Auditorium, now known as the Rabobank Theater.

One other change Dodson was able to make: using a full orchestra instead of just the organ for the annual “Messiah” performances.

“These people were full of tradition and I was this new kid on the block — I had to wonder if they would accept the change,” Dodson said. “And they did; they were very supportive.”

Dodson said when he retired, he also recommended the chorale link with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra to expand their performing opportunities — the chorale now performs annually with the orchestra.

Provencio said each of the guest conductors has chosen a piece to perform with the chorale: Dodson will

conduct a chorus from Mendelssohn’s oratorio “Elijah,” Kleinssaser will conduct Mozart’s motet “Ave verum corpus” and Witmer will conduct “O, my luve’s like a red, red rose,” by Rene Clausen. The rest of the program includes a set of sacred songs that also celebrate music, and closes with a medley of Broadway hits by Rodgers and Hammerstein. All the soloists are members of the chorale; Liz Cervantes is the accompanist for the program.

Provencio said the chorale has an annual budget of about $60,000, and is entirely self-funded.

“The chorale functions with no external financial support,” Provencio said. “Our income stream comes from dues and ticket sales and very generous donations from lovers of beauty in Bakersfield.”

The money covers expenses such as performance venue rentals and music. The cost of the music for this concert alone is between $50 and $60 per singer, Provencio said.

In addition to the three regularly scheduled concerts during the year, the chorale also provides scholarships for students, which are paid for by the members themselves, a young artist development program for recent college graduates, and a children’s choir that was started this year. Provencio said the chorale provides a “community service.”

“The hope is we’ll provide an artistic product that people will find inspring,” Provencio said. “And make them smile for an evening.”

“Women know what Women want.”

Korn on mission to find cure for diabetes THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Call the gals from Blue River Cabinetry to design your new kitchen or bath from start to finish.

Annette Mercado General Contractor, C.K.D. License # 865925

Michele Waugh

The members of Grammy-winning hometown heroes Korn will be preparing to head overseas for the European leg of their current concert tour when the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation holds a wine and food event in Bakersfield June 1.

But they will be there in spirit and, better yet, a piece of history that has huge significance to any Korn fan will go home with the highest bidder: the guitar played by Brian Welch at the recent concert marking his return to the band after an absence of eight years.

“And all four of the original band members — my brother, Brian, Reggie (Arvizu) and James (Shaffer) — signed it,” said Alyssa Davis, who has a small role in planning the event for a very compelling reason: Zeppelin Davis, her 6-year-old nephew, who has Type 1 diabetes.

Zeppelin is the son of Korn frontman Jonathan Davis and his wife, Deven,

whose lives changed instantly upon learning of the diagnosis, said Alyssa Davis.

“They’re really trying to raise money to help find a cure for these kids, who are being diagnosed so young,” she said. “It’s a life changer. I had no idea that for a child going through it, what it entails. You change everything.”

Beyond the dietary changes and other lifestyle accommodations, their son’s struggle has prompted the Davises to become deeply involved in raising funds for research, as they’re doing with the 2013 Summer Wine Fest on June 1.

The evening promises to be a delight for food and wine lovers, with hors d’oeuvres and desserts served by Luigi’s Restaurant, the Padre, J&M Cafe, Dewar’s, Chef’s Choice Noodle Bar, Borda Petite Catering, Mexicali, The Mark, Cafe Med, Sweet Surrender, Lassen’s and new-to-Bakersfield restaurant Wiki’s Wine Dive & Grill.

Participating vineyards and breweries include Marchesi Antinori, Constellation Brands, the Estates Group, Epic Wines, Mastro Scheidt Family Cellars, Stella Artois Beer and more.

Entertainment will be provided by Grammy-winning R&B performer Tony Rich, whose biggest hit is the 1996 single “Nobody Knows.” Also performing will be Bakersfield-based band Mystic Red. In addition to the signed Korn guitar, interesting auction items include lunch with U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy in Washington, D.C., and a “wild pig hunt” donated by Tejon Ranch. All proceeds will be donated to research for a cure for Type 1 diabetes and for local support groups that help children and teens.

Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. Space is limited at the event, which runs from 6 to 11 p.m. at Fleur De Lis, 424 24th St. For information or to buy tickets, call 636-1305 or visit jdrfla.org.

29

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Omelet cooked in a bag: Not as weird as it sounds Italian heritage group serving up a mouth-watering breakfast

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

I

f the phrase “hobo breakfast” has you thinking of a Chaplin-esque tramp boiling a shoe or drinking a hearty libation, well, you’re not completely off. The Italian Heritage Dante Association’s Sunday fundraiser will involve boiling food and a cocktail, but it’s much tastier than it sounds.

This hobo breakfast will offer a bloody Mary or mimosa as well as a full meal whose main element features a cooking method that’s a campout favorite: boiling the eggs.

“It’s a very healthy and easy way to cook an omelet,” said Glenn Holland, who will serve as chef for Sunday’s event. “You take a boilable bag, two eggs and any products that you would have in an omelet. Fill it half the way full, push out the air. Boil it 15 minutes. About 10 minutes in, you pull the bag out with rubber-tipped tongs, squeeze it together a bit. The key is taking the air out of it. Because of the shape of the bag, it comes out looking like a regular omelet.”

Holland first saw the cooking method at the Moose Lodge in Pismo Beach.

“After I saw it once before several years ago, I did it at the Moose Lodge in Bakersfield here. I’ve done it several times since. ... I’ve introduced some friends to it, and they have a reunion and they do it now.”

Holland has been a member of the Italian association for about 15 years and also belongs to the local Moose Lodge, both of which benefit from his love of cooking.

“I periodically cook breakfast and dinner to help them out and raise money.”

As a senior loan officer for Prime Lending, Holland said the extent of his culinary training is “standing over a stove and just enjoying the heck out of it.”

Much of the joy he derives from cooking comes from pleasing the hungry masses, so he’s offering a variety of fillings this weekend.

“We’re going to have bacon, sausage, ham, mushroom, green onion, regular onion, a couple different types of cheese.

We do popcorn shrimp, nice and small.

They give you the flavor without the moisture. And we’ll have imitation crab.”

The breakfast includes country-fried potatoes with onions and bell peppers as well as biscuits and gravy. Along with the aforementioned cocktails, beverage choices include orange juice, milk and coffee.

The Italian Heritage Dante Association is

Hobo Breakfast What: Omelet breakfast with all the trimmings When: 8 a.m. to noon Sunday Where: Italian Heritage Hall, 4415 Wilson Road Cost: $10 Information: 831-0867

hoping for a good turnout and that starts at the top with the group’s president, Mike Brancato.

“This is the first time that I personally am going to attend his (Holland’s) breakfast,” Brancato said. “I’ve missed the last two. But I cut my vacation short to be here; I was going to be in Idaho.”

Brancato assumed office just this year, so he said he’s focusing on getting the word out on what the group offers to the community. Along with breakfasts and dinners open to the public, the organization staffs a concessions booth at the Kern County Fair, and holds an annual golf tournament and picnic, which this year has moved from May to October and is now branded the Fall Festival. Also new this year are classes promoting Italian language and culture, open to anyone.

“We’re offering Italian language classes.

We just started it. Looking for a good showing for the fall semester. I’m hoping it will be a continuing education.”

Speaking of education, fundraisers like Sunday’s breakfast help the group fund scholarships for local college-bound students of Italian heritage.

“The more we get, the more we can give.

At all of our different functions, we allocate a percentage we pull throughout the year to put money into scholarships. ... Any leftover money helps rebuild the club, promote our language and our heritage.”

Brancato said it’s tough to gauge the need for the awards, which range from a $2,000 top scholarship to several $1,000 honors.

“Some years we don’t have enough kids applying. It's disappointing that the kids don’t apply. The schools are emailed the scholarship application, so the counselors have them on file. Or they can go on our website. ... When there were only four or five schools in town, it was easy.”

Although this year’s scholarships will be awarded at the association’s next monthly dinner, students can plan ahead by checking out the details on italian-heritage.com.

The website also has information on how to become a member of the Italian association.

FIRST LOOK Join the Eye Street crew from 9 to 10 a.m. this morning on bakersfield.com for “First Look with Scott Cox.” We’ll be rounding up all the exciting things to do this weekend, including the

Craft Beer Festival and Standing Bear Powwow. And don’t miss your chance to win tickets to the June 30th Summerland Music Fest, featuring Everclear, Live, Filter and Sponge.

THE CHANCE TO TRAVEL Could be the small change that makes a big difference in your life.

30

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street

PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKERSFIELD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

About 150 student trombonists at Sequoia Middle School perform in October with Fullerton College trombone professor Robert Soto.

Districts’ music focus wins national praise

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

K

ern County’s two largest school districts have been nationally recognized for their commitment to music education, but will it help them keep their music programs intact?

Bakersfield City School District and Panama-Buena Vista School District were among 307 districts and schools nationwide that received the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation’s “Best Communities for Music Education” award for 2013, awarded this spring.

NAMM represents all aspects of the music industry — from manufacturers to retailers — and historically has maintained an enormous commitment to music education at all levels. The award is based on how well a school or school district demonstrates its commitment to music education as measured by: faculty-to-student ratio; funding for music education; commitment to standards; and access to music education.

Participation in the award program is voluntary — districts and schools complete a survey examining the criteria.

According to the NAMM foundation, nearly 2,000 schools and districts participated this year.

“We have 25 full-time music teachers who work with the schools in the district,” said Amy McGuire, administrator of visual and performing arts for the PanamaBuena Vista school district.

McGuire said students in grades three through eight have equal access to music education, starting with general music instruction, and then through chorus, band and orchestra. McGuire said some of the teachers are stationed at a single school while others travel among campuses. But in all cases, each teacher works only in his or her specialty.

Mike Stone, McGuire’s counterpart at Bakersfield City School District, has seen “tremendous growth” in the music program since 2004, when Stone began track-

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEASLEY’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Panama-Buena Vista School District won the Best Communities for Music Education Award 2013.

ing it. Part of the expansion can be attributed to a one-time $2.1 million state block grant to invest in the music program.

BCSD spent the bulk of the money — $1.7 million — on musical instruments and related equipment.

“We are able to meet the needs of any child regardless of their ability to purchase a musical instrument,” Stone said.

Because of that investment, Stone said student participation in music programs throughout the BCSD has increased 54 percent.

The district also has made an overt commitment to excellence through events such as its Standards Festival — a music event with outside adjudicators, in which all schools adhere to agreed-upon music standards.

Both McGuire and Stone noted they have the support of their district boards and community, another important criterion in earning the NAMM recognition.

While the recognition is nice to have, NAMM asserts that the award actually can protect music programs; the recognition attracts more support and motivates school districts to maintain the standards that earned the award in the first place.

“I’ve already seen the impact,” Stone said. “If you walk into any school office, you can see the award to our district and our schools.”

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street LOWDOWN: CONTINUED FROM 26

kind of like a pinnacle for us. Anything that comes out of it, a few more fans or more gigs, is icing on the cake. This is the biggest show we’ve ever been a part of and has already given us a lot of new exposure.”

The festival is sold out; however, fans can stream the show live all weekend at californiarootsfestival.com.

Upcoming local shows Add this pair of shows to your calendar: Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett appears with his country side project, the Dead Peasants, at a free show at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on June 13. Shiflett, who formed the idea for the band while on tour for the Foo Fighters’ album “Wasting Light,” learned as many classic honky-tonk songs as he could. He already has made a number of live appearances with his honky-tonk sextet, most recently at the Stagecoach music festival in Indio. The group’s new CD, “All Hat Shiflett and No Cattle,” is a collection of some of his favorite country classics, including Buck Owens’ “King of Fools,” Merle Haggard’s “Skid Row,” Waylon Jennings’ “Are you Sure Hank Done It This Way,” Don Rich’s “Guitar Pickin’ Man,” and others. The album won’t be released until July, but fans can download two free tracks at chrisshiflettmusic.com.

The show is free, and space is limited.

For more information, call Buck Owens’

Crystal Palace at 328-7560.

Also coming up: Former Mars Volta lead vocalist Cedric Bixler-Zavala will be bringing his new band, Zavalaz, to Elements Venue on June 26. After parting ways with longtime Mars Volta partner Omar Rodriguez Lopez, Bixler-Zavala remains his eclectic self, posting cryptic messages online as to the nature of their music.

According to the Zavalaz Facebook page, the all-star band will feature various BixlerZavala on vocals and guitar, Mars Volt bassist Juan Alderete de la Peña and other notable musical comrades. Tickets for the all ages show are $13 and on sale now through timgardeapresents.com. Elements Venue is located at 3401 Chester Ave.

Matt’s picks Monty Byrom and the Road Pilots at Julie’s Branding Iron, 1807 N. Chester, Saturday, 9:30 p.m., free, 399-3237. After disbanding his Zen Road Pilots, Bakersfield singer-songwriter and honorary Buckaroo Monty Byrom has assembled a loose new group of all-star jammers. You never know what Byrom will pull out of his ax when he hits the stage, but I can guarantee the place will be a crash course in rock, blues, country — even reggae.

The Aviators at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. Saturday, $5, 397-7304.

This rowdy pack of young classic rockers have been really pulling them in lately.

Mixing covers of Led Zeppelin, AC/DC and more plus their own originals this show is poised to be the ideal after party for the Bakersfield Craft Beer Festival crowd.

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32

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street

They’re (still) playing our song at Beale Park

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

N Coming Saturday

05.25.13 Inside The Californian

Inside this issue: Sensational Seniors Bakersfield Life highlights 27 of the most outstanding graduating high school seniors from Kern County.

Get to know them now — one day they may change the world.

Nut Festival The first-ever Kern County Nut Festival promises to be “nuttin’ but fun.” See our complete guide that includes an event map, a Q&A with the co-chairwomen, schedule

of events, loads of nut facts, and a few of the dozens of nut-inspired dishes being featured by local restaurants at the festival.

Travel Ready for a summer getaway? Explore the best of the Central Coast using our handy guide. Or if surf, sun and sand isn’t your thing, take a journey to a California desert, mountain or metropolitan area highlighted here.

othing, save a soft breeze, makes a Bakersfield evening more tolerable than spreading out a picnic blanket under the trees of one of Bakersfield’s oldest parks and listening to a band concert of show tunes, movie themes and big-band favorites.

And thanks to local donors, the concerts — a tradition in the city for decades — will return to Beale Park in June.

Four concerts are scheduled for June 9, 16, 23 and 30, starting at 8 p.m. Local performing groups will provide entertainment starting around 7 p.m., and people are invited to come even earlier with a picnic and find a spot in the park.

Directed by Frontier High School band director Doug Kelly, the concert band will perform what has to be the most crowdpleasing summer band programs possible: show tunes, movie themes, big-band hits, classic wind ensemble pieces, and lots of marches, including by John Philip Sousa.

Admission is free.

The summer band concerts have been on shaky ground since the city of Bakersfield cut its funding four years ago. Since that time, band member Cyndi Hicks has been able to raise enough money to pay for four concerts each June.

“The same people keep supporting it,” Hicks said. “But this year, a lot of people dropped out and didn’t give for whatever reason.

“Others stepped up and doubled or tripled their gift,” Hicks said. “The musicians are just really grateful for the opportunity to play.”

Hicks and veteran band member Randy Fendrick also went to the city in the hopes of restoring financial support.

“We went to the city three or four weeks ago,” Fendrick said. “The City Council said they would like to do this, supposedly, and they turned it over to the city recreation department.”

City Parks and Recreation Department

BEER: CONTINUED FROM 22

have three other experimental beers, which use the brewery’s Centennial Ale as a base and branch out with distinct aromatic hops.

“We hopped them at a level you can tell what hop we used,” Williams said. “Sorachi Ace uses a Japanese hop with unique tones of lemon and dill, melon and pepper too.

Nelson Sauvin, a New Zealand hop, (adds) a wine-like element to both the aroma and the taste. Motueka, a New Zealand hop as well, has hints of passion fruit ... overwhelming aroma and tastes a little earthy as well.”

Other breweries serving their craft beers on tap include Kern River Brewing, Bear Republic Brewing Co., Lost Coast Brewery, Clown Shoes and Firestone Walker Brewing Co., which is serving its 805 ale.

“Their 805 blonde ale is really delicious,” Brown said. “Really crisp and clean flavor, perfect for summertime. A really good one

director Dianne Hoover said she’s waiting for the City Council to finish its fiscal planning.

“We’re in the process right now of setting budgets,” said Hoover, who added she has no idea what might happen, including whether any money allocated to the concerts would be for the current fiscal year or for the next one, which begins in July.

“It would be general fund at this point, and I can’t speak to general fund at this time because the City Council hasn’t approved it yet,” Hoover said.

Hicks asked “for anything they could help us with” and submitted the program’s budget for the past four years. The tally amounted to $2,200 per concert, Hicks said.

“I understand what they’re going through,” she said. “You’ve got boots on the ground (police officers and firefighters) or musicians in the park.”

The Beale Park band concerts have survived financial troubles before. Fendrick, who is marking his 51st year with the band this summer, is writing a history of the concerts, which started over a century ago.

“The Beale Park band started as a (musicians’) union band in 1906, and they started playing at the corner of 19th and Chester, which was the center of town,” Fendrick said.

Fendrick said the concerts were held intermittently until 1947 and became a steady event in 1953, with funding from the musicians’ union music performance trust fund. That source of funding dried up in the mid-1990s.

“That’s when the musicians’ union died in Bakersfield,” Fendrick said.

The city of Bakersfield picked up the funding at that point, but due to its own budget problems, cut that funding four years ago. Now the concerts rely solely on community support. Hicks is hoping for another kind of community support — audience turnout for each of the concerts.

“That really sends a message to the city that these concerts are important and people like them,” Hicks said.

to start off with.”

Firestone will host a booth exclusively open to VIPs, who will be seated in an area near the stage. That will give them the best vantage point for enjoying musical acts like bluesy rocker Trey Tosh as well as Velorio and Soulajar.

VIPs will be served a dinner of Original Eureka burgers and chips. The burgers will be sold in the general area as will sliders, french fries and ice cream from Moo. With such a lineup, it’s not surprising that tickets are almost gone. Dobbs, who was handling the earlier online ticket sales, recommends people check at Imbibe for any remaining tickets. (Eureka, Moo and Lengthwise Brewery also have limited tickets for sale.)

She also had some advice for future festival attendees, whom she encourages to buck the Bakersfield trend of waiting until the last minute: “Buy your tickets early next year.”

33

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2013

Eye Street Go & Do Today Optimal Cares Wine Tasting & Concert, music by Lisa Lynne and Aryeh Frankfurter, hors d’oeuvres, 5:30 to 9 p.m., Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $75. Proceeds benefit Optimal Hospice Foundation. 716-8000.

Bakersfield Blaze vs. Stockton Ports, 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Sam Lynn Ballpark, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS. SPCA Book Sale, daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today through Saturday (half-price day Saturday), near the old Michael’s store near East Hills Mall, 3501 Mall View Road, Suites 113-114. bakersfieldspca.org or 323-8353.

Friday 17th annual Standing Bear Powwow, Native American dancing, drumming, arts and crafts, food, demonstrations, 5 to 10 p.m.

Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $6; children under 10 are free.

589-3181.

An Evening of Art Song & Aria Voice Recital, 7:30 p.m., Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 1900 Baker St. $10 adults; $5 seniors and students; CSUB students with ID are free. 654-3093.

Goldenaires Choir Spring Concert, 7 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, 900 Day Ave. Free; refreshments following concert.

871-0927.

Saturday HOT 94.1 & HITS presents High School Dance Party, presented

by HOT 94.1 and HITS; 6:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater & Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $8. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000.

Bakersfield Speedway, Sports Modifieds, Mini Stocks, Hard Tops, Mini Dwarfs, 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.

Book Signings, with author Robb Fulcher “The Snake Who Would Not Bend,” 1 to 3 p.m., and Estella Aguilar of “My Absolute Fragile Essence,” 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 6654686.

Above the Clouds Derrick Buff Memorial Barbecue, tri-tip, rice, beans, salad, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, City in the Hills Park, City in the Hills Drive and Canteria Drive. $10. 637-9312.

Memorial Day events, placing flags on each gravesite for Memorial Day weekend, 8 a.m. Saturday; memorial day service, with keynote speaker Samuel Van Kopp, 9 a.m. Sunday, Bakersfield National Cemetery, 30338 E. Bear Mountain Boulevard, Arvin. Free.

867-2250.

CSUB Jazz Coffeehouse, 7:30 p.m., CSUB, Music Building, Room 127, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10 adults; $5 seniors; students with ID are free. 654-3093.

Fashion Show & Luncheon, hosted by the Stars United Club of the Order of the Eastern Star; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hodel’s Country Dining, 5917 Knudsen Drive. $30 adults; $15 children. Proceeds benefit the youth scholarship program. Email santajoaquinachapter14@yahoo.com or 348-4155.

Monthly Writing Workshops, join writers and college instructors for a series of workshops, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Tejon Room, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 868-0701.

NASCAR, CITGO Lubricants Late Models 50, Legends, Bandoleros, 6 p.m., Kern County Raceway Park, 13500 Raceway Blvd. $8$45. Email sblakesley@kernraceway.com or 835-1264.

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.

Ridge Route Run Car Show, with food, music, arts and crafts, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in downtown Frazier Park. $20 pre-registration; $30 car entry fee day of show.

Free to attend. Visit ridgerouterun.com or 245-0150.

St. Jude Dream Home, open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, now through June 16, 14604 Henderson Ave. stjudedreamhome.org or 1-800-385-9134.

Kids Free Day, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. 872-2256.

Sunday Hobo Breakfast Fundraiser, omelet breakfast with all the trimmings, 8 a.m. to noon, Italian Heritage Hall, 4415 Wilson Road. $10.

Proceeds to benefit scholarships of the Italian Heritage Dante Association. 831-0867.

Greater World Gift, with jewelry, baskets, gift items from Third World countries; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sundays, and 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, First Congregational Church, 5 Real Road. 327-1609.

THEATER “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. 5873377.

“The Cherry Orchard,” 8 p.m. today through Saturday, CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10 adults; $8 seniors/CSUB faculty/staff; $5 students with ID. 654-3093.

“Rocky Horror Picture Show,” presented by The Velvet Darkness, doors open at 11 p.m., show at midnight Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $10.

327-PLAY. “The Nerd,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15; $10 students and seniors. 327-PLAY. 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 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,” now through June 9, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. bmoa.org or 323-7219.

“Paint Me A Story,” for toddlers and preschoolers, first we read the story and then you and your child complete a hand-print dinner plate project together, 10 a.m. Saturday, Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $15. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 664-7366.

Art Exhibit, by Carol Bradshaw, now on display through May, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Art Exhibit “Spring — A Breath of Fresh Air,” by Linda Brown, now on display through May, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806.

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

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

Art: ABLE Art Education Workshop Series, six classes for people with disabilities, with art mentor and artist Nicole Saint-John, 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, now until May 30, Independent Living Center, 5151 Office Park Drive, Suite 200. 325-1063.

Art: ABLE Wheelchair Mural Workshops, for people who use wheelchairs, three sessions for youth and adults, with art mentor and artist Nicole Saint-John, 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Independent Living Center, 5151 Office Park Drive, Suite 200. 325-1063.

Experimental Watercolor and

Mixed Media Art Class, with Phyllis Oliver, 9 a.m. to noon today, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. $25 each class. 348-4717 or pegoliver@ix.netcom.com.

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.

MUSIC Classic rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Really Big Midgetz, 9 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday; Lost Vinyl, 9 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday.

Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; John Hollins band, 9 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday.

The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Deedra Patrick, Chris Neufeld and students, 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday.

Classic soul The Mark Restaurant, 1623 19th St., 322-7665; Mr. Trimble and Unique Soul, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday.

Comedy Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Convicts of Comedy, 7 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, $3.

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 Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Monty Byrom and the Buckeroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $5.

Ethel’s Old Corral, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; The Bluetooth Cowboys, noon to 4 p.m. Monday.

Ethel’s Old Corral Cafe, 4310 Alfred Harrell Highway, 873-7613; Open Range, 7 p.m. Friday; CRS Riders, 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday.

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., 399-6700; 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.

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.

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

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.

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 Steve Woods, 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, 619-1003; basic West Coast swing, 7 p.m.

Wednesdays, ballroom, country, two-step, 7 and 8 p.m. Thursdays.

Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700; 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, 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.

35

Thursday, May 23, 2013 The Bakersfield Californian

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

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

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633WINE; live music with Mark Meyer and Steve Eisen, 6 to 8:30 p.m. today; Lonely Ave., 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday; Deedra Patrick and Chris Neufeld, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Saturday; Paul Cierley and Rick Lincoln, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday; Melissa Lucas and Chris Lawhon, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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., 871-

4140; 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 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.

Reggae/ska B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Mento Buru & DJ Mikey, 9 p.m.

Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday. $5. 21 and over.

R&B Lone Oak Lounge, 10612 Rosedale Highway, 589-0412; Mystic Red, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday.

Señor Pepe, 8450 Granite Falls Drive, 588-0385, Rebecca Aguilar and Lost Vinyl, 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday.

Rock B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; UFC Fight 6 p.m. with music by Aviators, 9 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m.

Sunday. $10 includes dinner. All ages for fight; 21 and over for music.

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.

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

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.

Phil Vassar, 7 p.m., Buck Owens Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $30.50-$38.50. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

Variety

“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. 5873377.

“My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. Adults dinner/show: $54-$59; $38 show only; students dinner/show: $39; $23 show only.

325-6100.

“The Nerd,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15; $10 students and seniors. 327-PLAY. RAT: Offensive Comedy, 11 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327-PLAY.

Golden State Mall, 3201 F St., 872-2037, Joe Loco Duet, 2 to 5 p.m. Sundays.

La Mina Cantina, 8020 District Blvd., 831-2777; Prisoners of Love, 7 to 11 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.

Wine Me Up, 3900 Coffee Road, 588-8556; Mark Meyer and Steve Eisen, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 5/27 Memorial Day Service, with guest speakers, concluding with a release of balloons symbolizing the ascent of the spirits of our fallen heroes, 9 a.m., Historic Union Cemetery, 730 Potomac Ave. Free. 324-9648.

Memorial Day Celebration, guest speakers Congressman Kevin McCarthy and Assemblywoman Shannon Grove, refreshments, 11:30 a.m., Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary, 9101 Kern Canyon Road. Free. 366-5766.

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.

Spring Splash!, 1 to 5 p.m., McMurtrey Aquatic Center, 1325 Q St. $3 per person; $10 for groups of 4 to 6. 326-3866.

Tuesday 5/28 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 class, includes snack and art supplies. 869-2320 or 330-2676.

Soft rock

Thursday 5/30

Steak and Grape, 4420 Coffee Road, 588-9463; 7 to 10 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday. Free.

“The Cherry Orchard,” 8 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday, 2 p.m.

Sunday, CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10 adults; $8 seniors/CSUB faculty/staff; $5 students with ID. 654-3093.

Bakersfield Blaze vs. Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Sam Lynn Ballpark, 4009 Chester Ave. $7-$12. bakersfieldblaze.com or 716-HITS.

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;

Friday 5/31

Saturday 6/1 “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. 5873377.

80th Birthday “Sounds of Celebration,” concert with guest appearances by Phillip E. Witmer, Jerome Kleinsasser and Phillip Dodson, dinner, live and silent auction, raffle, 5:30 p.m., Hodel’s Country Dining, Liberty Hall, 5917 Knudsen Drive. $50 and will not be sold at the door. Visit bakersfieldmasterworks.org or 391-8465.

Auditions, for “The Role I Was(n’t) Born to Play” and “A Midsummer Nights Dream,” noon to 4 p.m., The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free. Email simplyksal@gmail.com to schedule an appointment time for the first play, email bobk90039@yahoo.com to schedule an appointment for the second play. 327-PLAY. Bakersfield Speedway, Modifieds, Hobby Stocks, Ford Focus, Mini Dwarf, American Stocks, gates open at 4 p.m.; races begin at 6 p.m., Bakersfield Speedway, 5001 N. Chester Ave. $12; $6 ages 6-12; under 5 free. bakersfieldspeedway.com or call 393-3373.

Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Banquet, with reception at 5:30 p.m., dinner banquet 6 p.m., televised awards 7 p.m., DoubleTree Hotel, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. $45 per person. 327-4421.

CSUB Chamber Music Concert, 7:30 p.m., Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 1900 Baker St. $10 adults; $5 seniors/students; CSUB students with ID are free. 654-3093.

Emergency Service Festival & Health Fair, child immunizations, vendors, kids’ area, 1 to 4 p.m., Sam Lynn Ballpark, 4009 Chester Ave. Free but a hot dog lunch will be available for $5. Visit centralcaltypeone.org.