Eye Street Entertainment / 11-10-11

26

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

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

Index Stephen David Austin .............................. 27 Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra............ 28 County Music Museum show .................. 29 Arts Alive .................................................. 30 Bakersfield Veterans Day Parade ............ 31 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 32 Spamalot.................................................. 36 Calendar .............................................. 39-41

Hungry? Let’s get cookin’ Our city top stop for Taste of Home, but you can still get in

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

A

lthough it will come as no surprise to anyone, Bakersfield loves food. But nowhere is that fact more evident than at the annual Taste of Home Cooking School, coming to Rabobank Arena on Tuesday.

“Bakersfield is still the largest show on the West Coast!” said Kristi Larson, the show’s culinary specialist. “There were about 1,450 people at the show last year.”

Connecting with those people, either the VIPs, who are given backstage tours, or the crowd watching the cooking demonstration of 10 dishes, is something that keeps Larson coming back.

“I think my favorite part (of the show) is getting the chance to share some new recipes, ideas and techniques with the audience.”

That’s good news for home cooks, who are growing in number and getting more creative, Larson said.

“I think people have been cooking meals at home more often, and are willing to experiment a little with new flavors and ingredients.

“Quick and easy meals, that are also healthy are also in demand.”

The lineup of fall recipes delivers on all fronts. Mostly drawn from the show’s national sponsors — King Arthur Flour, West Bend Appliances, Kitchen Basics, Chex, Gallo Family Vineyards, Success Rice, Eggland’s Best Eggs, the National Pork Board and C&H Sugar — the recipes inspire Larson.

“I really like all of the recipes in our fall lineup. I've always been a pumpkin fan, so the pumpkin whoopie pies are definitely at the top of my list as a favorite to eat.”

For demonstration purposes, Larson and her staff will whip up a batch of whoopie pies Tuesday morning, so she’ll be able to finish the recipe minus the dish’s full cook time. On the savory side, Larson recommends the pork sliders, served with a cranberry sauce and pickled onions.

“For a quick and easy party

Taste of Home Cooking School When: Vendor expo at 3:30 p.m., demonstration at 6 Tuesday Where: Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $15 plus fee; ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000 Information: cookingschoolblog.com, facebook.com/ kristi.tasteofhome

food or simple weeknight dinner, the pork tenderloin sliders are fantastic.

For comfort food, you can’t go wrong with a hearty stew.

“I love the groundnut stew — it’s perfect for cool fall and winter days!”

Rounding out the rest of the cooking lineup are barbecue chicken pizza, Tuscan bread salad, Chex peanut butter and chocolate blast, raspberry mustard pork loin, easy Thai chicken and rice, huevos rancheros and rich agave chocolate cake.

Although the flagship publication is Taste of Home, Reiman Publications also puts out other foodie magazines like Healthy Cooking and Simple and Delicious. Fans of any of the publications should get a lot out of the show, Larson said.

“We try to demonstrate recipes that could be found in any of the three magazines in the Taste of Home family. During the show, I try to offer ways to change the recipes to make them healthier or easier to prepare, if possible.”

Some of that easier prep work, like chopping vegetables, takes place before the show, something that VIP guests may get to see during their pre-demo tour of the backstage and presentation area.

Before the demo, guests can check out dozens of vendors promoting food, home improvement, shopping and more with samples and discounts. Among the businesses attending this year are Cupcakes n Crema, Bakersfield Hyundai, Urner’s, Dream Maker Bath & Kitchen, Albertsons and White Forest Nursery.

For those interested in more recipes from Taste of Home, The Californian’s booth will sell four cookbooks: “Taste of Home Most Requested Recipes,” “Taste of Home Almost Homemade, “Taste

PHOTO COURTESY OF TASTE OF HOME

Huevos rancheros is one of 10 dishes in the cooking demonstration for the Taste of Home Cooking School on Tuesday at Rabobank Arena.

of Home Comfort Food Diet: Family Classic Collections”and Taste of Home Christmas Cookies and Candy.” (Copies of local photography book “Capture Kern County” also will be available.)

A lucky few will win free cookbooks as part of the giveaways, which include an iPad, gift cards and gift baskets. The 10 dishes prepared in the demonstration will go out to 10 winners (bad news for folks who wanted samples!).

Even after the show ends, the adventure continues for Larson, who has three more stops on the West Coast leg of the show.

Though it can be hard spending so much time on the road, Larson said, there is a bright side.

“Sometimes I get tired of being in my van for so many hours. But I love seeing so many beautiful parts of the country as I drive,

Need a little dessert to top off your meal? How about this rich agave chocolate cake.

Raspberry mustard pork loin is great when paired with wine.

and I get to listen to a lot of great books that I don't have time to read.”

As for Larson interacting with

home cooks, that doesn’t end when the show does.

“I love hearing from Taste of Home fans on our blog and my Facebook page after the show, especially when they tell me what their favorite recipe is, or what they learned at the show.”

27

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Bakersfield in his blood A resident by choice, not birth, singer draws on inspiration

BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

C

ountry music is filled with working man poets like Stephen David Austin.

Absorbing the reality of his surroundings and putting them to song, the Tehachapi singer/songwriter continues a well-traveled musical tradition. Equally influenced by the Dust Bowl narrative of Merle Haggard and the honky-tonk twang of his idol Buck Owens, Austin hopes to touch fans the same way with his debut solo CD, “A Bakersfield Dozen.”

A gritty ode to the American experience told through the eyes of a wandering troubadour, the collection is a reflection of Austin’s life and the figures he’s encountered who have helped color the way. From late-night whiskey jams to the pains of love and defeat, the material is, in part, the product of two brief conversations Austin had with singer/guitarist Dave Alvin.

“I told Dave how much his music was like my life story. Then we started talking about Okie history. At one point he said it sounds like Merle Haggard wrote what I was saying. I met him again at Fishlips when he was in town and we started talking about those same things again. He finally said, ‘You should write your own life story.’”

Turns out, Austin, 56, had already been doing that through a series of half-written songs, most of which ended up on “A Bakersfield Dozen.”

“They were written in bits and pieces. I’d been sitting on them for some time. I started out with 13 songs and was going to call it a “Bakers Dozen,” but two of the songs didn’t quite fit. When I had it pared down to 11, I figured anyone who’s done any time in Bakersfield would get the irony.”

Unbeknownst to Austin, Bakersfield Sound musician Red Simpson already had an album of the same name, purely coincidental, Austin said. In truth, Simpson’s 1967 album and Austin’s release bear little resemblance to each other. But if anyone was to dispute Austin’s intentions, consider it more of an homage than misappropriation.

“It certainly wasn’t theft,” Austin said.

Austin was born in Omaha, Neb., but he moved around a lot, thanks to the demands of his dad’s job as an agricultural chemical salesman. The family eventually settled in Southern California, but Austin can still recall those long drives with his father and the sounds of country music on the radio during work calls. His father’s favorite: “El Paso” by Marty Robbins.

“That’s where I think I learned to love the open road and got to know a lot more

To buy the album “A Bakersfield Dozen” can be purchased at cdbaby.com and also available for download on iTunes. For more information visit stephendavidaustin.com.

about my father. All my life I’ve been exposed to what he always listened to — Buck and Merle, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Tom T. Hall, Hoyt Axton. I just loved music.

I never really drew a line as to what was cool — I just loved the way stories could be told. There was always depth and a great pathos in country music you couldn’t find in rock music.”

His parents enrolled him in music lessons at age 9, when he was presented his first Sears guitar. But as time went by, he was ready to call it quits.

“My teacher wanted to teach me how to finger pick and read music. I just wanted to play songs.”

Among the songs that influenced his early playing was The Beatles cover of Buck Owens’ “Act Naturally.”

“I started noticing how George Harrison played so much like Don Rich from the Buckaroos. That was my introduction to the Bakersfield Sound, like most people around (Southern California).”

In years to come, Austin found himself playing in various rock bands before discovering the burgeoning Americana music movement in Hollywood during the ’80s.

Exciting, raw and unconventional, bands like The Blasters, The Beat Farmers and Lone Justice were reinventing the country wheel.

“I loved the energy, but I never took steps to get involved. I think a lot of it was about finding the right players,” he said.

After relocating to Bakersfield that decade, he continued making the music rounds as a member of various bar bands before finally stepping out on his own to begin working on “A Bakersfield Dozen” last year.

“I spent about a year in my basement alone before I realized I need to get out and really get this thing going.”

He managed to assemble some top country session players for the project. At

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Country artist Stephen David Austin was member of various bar bands before finally stepping out on his own to begin working on “A Bakersfield Dozen” last year.

the top of the list is steel guitarist Marty Rifkin, whose recording credits include sessions with Tom Petty, Dwight Yoakam and Bruce Springsteen.

“Marty’s parts were done at his studio in Santa Monica, where we also mixed and mastered the CD. It was the only time I’ve ever seen quadruple platinum cassette tape on the wall for Bruce Springsteen. I feel so great to consider him a friend now.

It was fun and totally painless working with him.”

Others on board include bassist Paul Marshall, guitarist Dave Currall, pianist Skip Edwards, drummer Shawn Nourse, vocalist Teresa James and Brantley Kearns on fiddle. Together they make one powerhouse of a backing band.

“When you’re playing with people this great, it always raises the bar.”

That being said, all the songs on “A Bakersfield Dozen” make for a cohesive musical statement.

The album opens with the humorous “Best Ex I Ever Had,” a song inspired by a Bakersfield bartender. It’s followed by “Heroes and Heroin,” a cautionary tale about the tragic lives of musicians Charlie Parker, Gram Parsons and Jerry Garcia.

“That song had a bunch more verses about a lot of guys that were musical heroes that had done a lot of horrible things. I had to pare it down. Always makes me think of a quote from Henry Rollins, who said, ‘How many people Keith Richards has killed just for being Keith Richards?’”

On the upside, “Dance With No Pants” is a burner that would make a hilarious music video with its redneck storyline, while “Back to Bakersfield” is a reminder of

the city’s mythical draw.

“The Grapevine, Panorama bluffs — it was just short of the ‘Grapes of Wrath.’ It’s all about migration and how people always end up coming back once they leave.”

Among the CD’s standouts is a track about Wichita’s methamphetamine problem, called “Kansas Ain’t in Kansas Anymore,” co-written by drummer and Californian staff writer Steven Mayer.

“A lot of my stuff is poetic license.

Steven had done a story on the meth labs taking over. It was a quote from someone he interviewed.”

“The Day Buck Owens Died” opens with a riff from the legend’s signature tune “Buckaroo,” before Austin recounts the moment he was given the sad news.

“I did it as a tribute to his sound. In his lifetime, he accomplished more than what 20 musicians could. He passed away on my birthday.”

“A Bakersfield Dozen” closes with “Bad Dog,” featuring Austin’s grandson, Kayleb, who was only a year old at the time it was recorded.

“Bad Dog” was one of the only things he could say. I had to hold him on the mic. I put it on there to show I’m not all Holden Caulfield. Kayleb is the light of my life and the source of my inspiration. Everything’s new to him, and I’m kinda jaded.”

Austin said there are plans to perform the songs as they were recorded, but for now he hopes his music will continue to circulate.

“I’ve always said that my idea of making it is walking into a bar where I know no one, and they get up and play my song on the jukebox.”

28

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street

Symphony the apex of Brahms’ ‘artistic life’

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

T

he orchestra will be the star in this weekend’s Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra concert.

Works by three of the great orchestral composers are featured this weekend: the “Egmont” Overture by Ludwig van Beethoven; the “Karelia” Suite and “Valse Triste” by Jean Sibelius; and the Symphony No. 4 by Johannes Brahms.

“We’re covering all the basics,” said conductor John Farrer.

Beethoven’s “Egmont” Overture is an example of the composer’s incidental music, which is music written for a play and functions in much the same way as a soundtrack. The play “Egmont” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, is the tragic story of the Count Egmont, a 16th-century Dutch nobleman who leads a rebel movement against the Duke of Alba and the Spanish regime occupying the Netherlands.

Egmont’s misplaced reliance on the loyalty of his people leads to imprisonment and eventually his execution, while still calling for the liberty of his people.

“The piece captures the desire of the Dutch for freedom and he conveys the hero’s death,” Farrer said.

Completed in 1885, Brahms’ fourth symphony is one of the great masterworks of the late Romantic period, a combination of new and traditional techniques.

Brahms began his long career as a pianist and composer who avoided writing symphonies for much of his life, feeling that Beethoven had already made the definitive statement in that genre. With his choral masterpiece, “A German Requiem,” which uses both choir and orchestra, Brahms’ reputation as an orchestral composer was assured, and he began writing more ambitious works, including his four

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra concert When: 8 p.m. Saturday; lecture at 7 p.m.

Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $34 to $50; half price for full-time students and children, available at the Rabobank box office Information: 323-7928 or bakersfieldsymphony.org

symphonies. Farrer noted the fourth symphony’s sophistication in construction, the multiple layers of movement from the various instrument groups, the lush harmonies and the soulful melodies make this both a profound and beautiful work.

“It’s the culmination of a man’s entire artistic life,” Farrer said. “There is an aspect of art which is ‘unknowable. I think the Brahms’ Fourth brings us a little closer to knowing it.”

Finnish composer Jean Sibelius is one most often associated with the northern European tradition of composition and a prime example of the nationalist movement in Romantic music. Pieces such as “Finlandia,” “The Swan of Tuonela” and the two pieces on the BSO program — the “Karelia” Suite and “Valse Triste,” are inspired by both the folk music and the legends of the Finnish people.

By their nature, folk melodies demand a greater simplicity from a composer, nevertheless, Farrer notes, that like Beethoven and Brahms, Sibelius is also a great orchestrator and composer of great subtlety and sophistication.

Dr. Jerome Kleinsasser will lecture on the musical selections at 7 p.m. in the Potato Room at the theater.

Village Artisans presents

Free Admission

Italian Heritage Dante Hall 4415 WILSON RD • (661) 205-2923 30 craft/vendors.

Luncheon, Coffees & Dessert available.

Nov 11th 12pm - 5pm Nov 12th 9am - 5pm Nov 13th 9am - 3pm

www.villageartisans.org

29

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Bakersfield Sound for all ages Local music pioneers prep for country music concert

Bring out your inner chef.

Cook up some fun

in our last cooking class in November

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

O

riginators of the Bakersfield Sound style of country music are glad they finally have a museum that preserves their history.

But surviving pioneers, most in their 80s now, don’t want their music to be merely a museum piece.

This weekend, members of the Bakersfield Country Music Museum will host one of their quarterly concerts to promote the regional style that has had a national impact. “Primarily the show we’ve got coming up is a tribute to the old musicians,� said BCMM board member Fred McCaa. McCaa said he and other veterans such as Tommy Hays, Sonny Anglin, Barbara Cheatwood and Lawton Jiles are all expected to perform a few songs each. McCaa said these concerts are a way of passing on the torch to younger musicians, which prompted a move from Trout’s nightclub on North Chester to the Moose Lodge on Belle Terrace. “We moved from Trout’s so young people could participate,� McCaa said.

It was a different time, back in the late 1950s, when the musicians who would be credited with creating the Bakersfield Sound started reacting to the heavily produced records coming out of Nashville, when country music became big business, thanks to performers such as Hank Williams and Patsy Cline.

Borrowing from western music, bluegrass and early rock ’n’ roll, this weekend’s performers and colleagues such as Oscar Whittington, Billy Mize, Red Simpson, the Maddox Brothers and Rose, and, of course Buck Owens and Merle Haggard, made their own kind of music, with a strong backbeat, electric bass and pedal steel guitars.

McCaa remembers even before that, back when he was known as “Bakersfield Fred� and his band was called “The Pickers.� “Back when I started playing, we didn’t have much electric stuff — mostly acoustic and a microphone,� said McCaa, who recalled making his own bass — he overturned a washtub, inserted a pole and added a tightened string. “We called it a strum-drum,�

McCaa said.

Anglin, another BCMM founder, began playing in the U.S. Navy, while serving on the heavy cruiser USS Canberra. After his service, he contin-

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Country singers Fred NcCaa and Sonny Anglin are among members of the Bakersfield Country Music Museum who will host a quarterly concert to promote the regional style that has had a national impact.

Pioneer Event concert for the Bakersfield Country Music Museum When: 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday Where: Stockdale Moose Lodge, 905 Stine Road.

Admission: Free for members, $10 for non-members Information: 366-6003

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Tommy Hays plays during the annual Dust Bowl Days Festival in 2009.

ued playing and in 1968 landed a 13week television show on Channel 36 in San Jose. “It was prime time,� Anglin said. “It was called ‘Saturday Night Country Style.’ It broadcast to the Bay Area.�

Both McCaa and Anglin hope younger audiences will hear and appreciate their style of music, which they still see as a reaction to music produced in Nashville. “We want to get more people out to listen to the Bakersfield Sound while we still have it,� Anglin said. “We never did call it (the Bakersfield Sound),� McCaa said. “It was actually the individual’s own music. “It was a hand-me-down music — each song we played we learned from

somebody else; we didn’t learn from sheet music,� McCaa said.

Anglin said younger musicians are turning out, often with their parents and grandparents, who have passed down the family music-making. “You get pro and con,� Anglin said. “Some like it, some like a different sound, and that’s all right.�

Anglin said the BCMM founders worked for 25 years to start a museum dedicated to their music and credits former Kern County Museum director Jeff Nickel for making their dreams a reality. “The whole thing was we just wanted a place to put Joe Mathis’ guitar, and Red Simpson’s suit, and in Bakersfield,� Anglin said. “I just go over there and thank the Lord we’ve got something going,�

Anglin said.

Sun., Nov. 20th 1-3pm Build a Better Brunch By guest chef Robin Noble Sponsored by

All classes are free, but seating is limited.

Call & Reserve Your Seat Today!

White Lane and Wible Road

Do you Facebook?

Join our growing online community.

Facebook.com/BakersfieldCalifornian

Get more details from the Events tab at Urner’s Facebook page and call our operator to reserve your spot today.

30

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Artists capture moving pictures Theater to enlarge and hang works

P

aintings done by eight local artists named winners in a juried competition with a movies-related theme are being enlarged to 12-by-18 feet — yes feet, not inches — and soon will be posted on the outer walls of Maya Cinemas.

For the present, however, you can meet the artists and get a closeup look at all of the 18-by27-inch originals at a reception this evening in the theater’s conference room.

And unless you also plan to see a movie, you don’t have to buy a ticket to view the paintings.

Nyoka Jameson, promotion director, said “Just tell the greeter” in the lobby you are there to see the art exhibit and he or she will direct you to the conference room.

The contest, which was cosponsored by Maya and the Arts Council of Kern, was open to Kern County residents 18 or over, and limited to 20 entries. Subject matter had to be related to some aspect of motion pictures — characters from a film, actors’ likenesses or the movie-going experience.

Don Trainor, who is well known for his paintings of classic cars, chose to highlight the glamour of Hollywood in its early days. He tells me the bright red convertible in the center of his detailed composition is a 1938 Packard — complete with white-wall tires and a replica of the original hood ornament.

The colorful painting also includes palm trees, klieg lights, a tripod topped with an old-style movie camera, film reels, a theater marquee and the historic Hollywood sign.

Another winner, Patti Doolittle, chose to paint two different images of a famous star on a single canvas. Marilyn Monroe is shown in the foreground in one of her more pensive moods and in a sexier pose in a smaller image in the background.

Others named as winners in the contest are Ed Lloyd Gragg, Kevin Hardin,

PHOTO COURTESY OF DON TRAINOR PHOTO COURTESY OF PATTI DOOLITTLE

Patti Doolittle’s “Marilyn Monroe” will be on the walls of Maya Cinemas after the image is enlarged.

Audrey Jarvis, Alison Beitzell, Jeremy White and Caleb Kromer.

Each of the winning paintings is being photographed, enlarged and printed on vinyl by Don Mason Photography. When the process is completed, the postersize prints will be placed on the exterior of Maya Cinemas.

All of the original paintings are for sale, with 75 percent going to the artist. The other 25 percent will benefit the Arts Council’s Art in the Schools at Risk Youth Program.

And since the whole idea is to focus on motion pictures, each of the winners gets two free movie passes per week from December through July.

‘Next Fall’ at The Empty A contemporary drama about two gay men who are compatible except when it comes to their religious beliefs opens Friday at The Empty Space. Written by Gregory Nauffts, the play opened on Broadway in 2010 and received a Tony nomination for best play.

Kristina Saldana, director of the local production, describes it as “a really good love story about a couple who have different beliefs and how they’re able to be in a relationship.”

The story begins in a hospital where one of the men, Luke, played by Lorenzo Salazar, is in intensive care following a car accident. His partner, Adam, portrayed by Justin Brooks, arrives later and their relationship is explained in a series of flash-

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

Don Trainor's “Let’s Go to the Movies” is one of the paintings honored by Maya Cinemas in its juried competition, whose theme was movie art.

backs. Already in attendance in the waiting room are Luke’s divorced parents.

The father, described as “a born-again fundamentalist,” is played by Bob Kempf, and Jan Hefner is the mother, whose character is described as “a reformed wild woman of Southern-fried eccentricities.”

Caroline Clark appears as the owner of a candle shop where Luke works. The role of Brandon, a gay man who has difficulty expressing his sexual preferences, is double-cast: Jeremiah Heitman has the role for this weekend’s shows and Justin Salinas will assume it for the remaining performances, which end on Nov. 26.

Valley poets saluted This evening’s poetry readers at Russo’s Books are very much alive but the writers they’re honoring are no longer with us. Kevin Shah, who coordinates the monthly gathering, asked the readers to pick a California poet of the past, for “Dead Poets — Live.”

Don Thompson is being featured in the first part of the program and will read some of his own work. Other local poets invited to participate are Gary Hill, LisaAnn LoBasso, Ann Williams, Portia Choi, Nancy Edwards and Adolph Wirth.

They will read poetry written

by Ardis Walker, Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel, Roberta Spear, Robinson Jeffers, Helen Shanley, Lee McCarthy, Rachel Field and Kenneth Fearing.

Beale hosts writing workshops Few things in life are free but a new monthly series of creative

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE GUERRERO

A scene from “Next Fall.” From left: Jan Hefner, Justin Salinas, Bob Kempf, Lorenzo Salazar, Caroline Clark and Justin Brooks.

writing workshops at Beale Memorial Library is a notable exception.

What’s more, each two-hour session will be taught by a member of the English faculty at Cal State Bakersfield, said CSUB’s William Mitchell, who is coordinating the series.

“My own thought is that a library is the perfect place to learn about writing,” Mitchell said. “I am looking forward to being there, surrounded by writers and surrounded by what others have written.”

Each workshop will be held on the second Saturday of the month, starting this Saturday.

The instruction will focus on the basics of the writing process: character development, plot, detail, organization and creativity in fiction, nonfiction and poetry. The series will culminate in a Writers Resource Fair in April.

“All of the instructors from (CSUB) who will be at the Beale have a strong interest in writing creatively,” Mitchell said.”And we enjoy the chance to share this particularly delightful way for people to express themselves.”

Harp music at Mercy Until now, most programs at the Art and Spirituality Center at Mercy Hospital have involved the visual arts. So the performance of Celtic harpist Lisa Lynne on Wednesday evening is a “first,” said Sister Sherry Dolan, director of the center.

Lynne is the founder and director of Harps for Hearts, an organization that arranges the performance of live music in hospitals.

She is known for her acoustic music and New Age recordings.

Mercy is partnering with the Arts Council of Kern in presenting the concert. Dolan said all dona-

GO & DO Maya Cinemas Art Contest When: 5 to 7 p.m. today Where: Conference room, second floor, Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. Admission: Free Information: 636-0484

‘Next Fall’ When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: Free Information: 327-PLAY

‘Dead Poets — Live’ When: 7 p.m. today Where: Russo’s Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Admission: Free Information: 665-4686

Creative Writing Workshops When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday Where: Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave. Information: 868-0745

Harpist Lisa Lynne When: 7 p.m. Wednesday Where: Art and Spirituality Center, Mercy Hospital, 2215 Ave. Admission: $10, suggested donation Information: 324-9000

tions received will benefit the hospital’s Art and Spirituality Center.

31

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Love your country and salute a veteran Parade, other events honor sacrifices

Named Bakersfield’s Favorite Pizza in The Californian’s 2011 Readers Survey

BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

www.tonyspizzabakersfield.com

W

Mediterranean & Californian Cuisine

$62.99 (Pie not included)

A Complete Thanksgiving Dinner To Go for 4-5 people

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Marv Rohlfing, who served in the Army and Marines in Vietnam, rides on his motorcycle in the Veterans Day Parade in 2007.

Starts

H ST

21ST ST

18TH

17 ST

L ST

TRUXTUN AVE

Ends

19TH

K ST

CHESTER AVE

EYE ST

20TH ST

Veterans Day Parade

M ST

22ND ST

G ST

hen Vernon Venezuela came back from Vietnam in 1969, he didn’t return home to crowds of flag-waving supporters, marching bands and parades.

Instead, he, like so many other veterans at the time, was greeted by stony silence that spoke volumes about the disputed nature of that particular war. “It was the biggest thing I’d ever done in my life, and when I came home, I couldn’t be proud of it,� he said.

Now, as the honorary grand marshal of Bakersfield’s Veterans Day Parade, organized for the 92nd consecutive year by American Legion Post 26, Venezuela will receive the fanfare he deserves for the service he provided his country, as well as for nearly a lifetime of work helping to improve the lives of veterans nationwide, as well as right here in Kern County.

The 62-year-old Bakersfield native grew up attending the Veterans Day parade, which will run its familiar route, beginning at 21st and L. But he strayed away from it after being discharged from Vietnam in 1969 due to an injury he suffered to his chest and shoulder.

Instead, he found himself enrolling at Bakersfield College and participating in activities with the campus’s Veterans Club, seeking what he called a “sense of normalcy.�

Those initial steps led him down a 30-year road of activism, from initially working as an assistant to the Office of Veteran’s Affairs branch at BC, then as a counselor to war veterans both in Kern County and at the Sepulveda Veteran’s Center in Los Angeles, to campaigning at the national level for improved benefits for veterans as the chairman of Vietnam Veterans of America’s PTSD and Substance Abuse committee. “I don’t know if there was ever really a decision (to become a veterans’ activist). When I got out of the military — Vietnam was a very confusing time for me, and for many people.

And I went to Bakersfield Community College and got involved in the vets club up there; I just got involved in it, and never really got away.�

Now, as a licensed private family therapist, Venezuela works as the team leader for the Bakersfield Vet Center on Golden State Avenue, which opened in September.

The Vet Center offers counseling not only to returning combat veterans

THE CALIFORNIAN

Parade schedule for Friday Breakfast: 6:30 a.m., American Legion Post 126 (2020 H St.), $6 Flag raising ceremony: 8 a.m., the Veterans Memorial (R Street at Truxtun Avenue) Parade: 10 a.m. to noon Lunch: Noon, American Legion Post 126, $8 Awards ceremony: 2 p.m.

Information: 324-9453

but to their spouses and children as well, to ensure that the entire family has the help they need to cope with the changing family dynamic that returning soldiers often bring home with them.

The center also offers “comfort kits,� which include basics like tooth-

brushes, vocational rehabilitation, arranges rides down to the veterans hospital in Los Angeles, as well as recreational activities to help veterans find the same sense of normalcy Venezuela sought when he came back to Bakersfield. “We wanted to provide a place where vets could stop by and feel comfortable; where they can hang out while we help them access resources they need.�

After spending years struggling to reconcile what he viewed as an act of patriotism when he left Bakersfield High School to volunteer for the Army, only to return two years later as a target for misplaced political dissatisfaction, Valenzuela is pleased to see that veterans returning from war today are being welcomed back with the honor and respect they deserve.

He is also proud to take part in a parade that has become nearly a century-long tradition for veterans and their families, and accepts his role of honorary grand marshal on behalf of anyone who has ever fought for and served their country. “It’s enormously important to honor those that have served, and it is a great honor to serve as this position during the parade. But what I’m doing is I’m representing the thousands and thousands of veterans of Kern County. I’m just a representative. “It’s not Vernon they’re honoring, it’s a Vietnam veteran.�

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32

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Pregnant with funny possibilities Troupe ‘Monty Python meets Twilight Zone’

M

others, guard your daughters — the funnymen of Bakersfield’s Pregnantville are back.

The group is heading into the second week of their new live sketch comedy show, “Immersion,” happening Saturdays in November at the Center for Improv Advancement Theater.

Audiences will have no choice but to throw on a life jacket and enjoy the plunge.

Still basking in the glory of opening night, troupe member Andrew Price recalls the all-consuming what-if-nobody-shows fright from earlier that evening.

“There’s a series of shows that go on until each hour leading up to ours, and we had to wait outside. By the time it was our turn, there was no one there, so we were kinda stressed. We were running around trying to get everything together and ended up going on later than we expected.

Then all of a sudden the theater was packed.”

Fortunately for the quintet, which also features actor/comedians Brandon H. Nebbit, Sean Catlett, Aaron Sproul, and John Spitzer, it was their spitfire wit that helped them overcome the fear every performer feels.

“Right now we’re floating on confidence and rainbows. We pulled the show off, which was surprising, considering how we were doing before.

Afterwards we went to Denny’s grinning at each other maniacally.”

Price and Spitzer, both of whom

PHOTO BY ROBERT BEJIL

Comedy troupe Pregnantville appears Saturdays in November at Center for Improv Advancement.

From left: Brandon Nebbit, Andrew Price, Sean Catlett, Aaron Sproul. Not pictured is John Spitzer.

Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic Night With host Matt Munoz When: 8 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays. Signups start at 7:30 p.m.

Where: Fishlips, 1517 18th St. Information: 324-2557 or visit the Facebook page for updates.

had already been involved in the local theater scene, formed Pregnantville in 2009. The plan was to assemble a group in the tradition of their favorite troupes: Monty Python, Upright Citizens Brigade, and others. Starting out with six members for their debut at The Empty Space that same year, they’ve since produced eight original shows — each with its own unique comedic theme.

“The group is usually described

as Monty Python meets ‘Twilight Zone,’” said Price.

“It’s a combination of a lot of fun and friendship-testing frustration. It starts out with, ‘Let’s do another show,’ and then we start writing. I get ideas from wherever I’m at. Once we get the material and have them casted, we start rehearsing.”

As for their name, Pregnantville, Price says it came as a result of accidental eavesdropping.

“We were hanging out at BCT (Bakersfield Community Theatre) one day and I overheard someone say, ‘Is she pregnant still?’ I thought they said, ‘Pregnantville,’ which I thought would be a perfect name for an improv group and that was it. Heard out of context it sounds like a teenage boy’s nightmare or some teen mother drama.”

If you’ve never been to a Pregnantville show before, Price said the curious should expect a night of that type of irreverent comedy

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.

mixed with audience participation.

“The first thing is there’s mature content, and we try to be real atmospheric. The show is going to start with a little living theater going on. People will talk to you, and things in the theater will be interactive. Like the title of the show — there’s going to be a lot of audience ‘immersion’ going on. Some of the sketches also have dark vibes. In short, the show’s about 90 minutes of non-stop hilarity.”

But don’t be alarmed: You won’t be forced to join in.

“I’ve never been to a show where they force you to participate. I understand sometimes you don’t wanna work. You’re just looking for entertainment. We try to keep it strictly volunteer.”

Without giving away too much, we can give you just a preview of what to expect, courtesy of Pregnantville’s Sean Catlett: “We have a zany theater attendant who has two sons that he keeps prisoner in his theater dungeon. We also got God and Charles Darwin in a boat together in the middle of a lake like a

scene from ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley,’ a civil servant who catches creatures that aren’t very conventional, a time traveler, pirates.

And if there are any scantily clad people — it would be us.”

Price added that another of the show’s big highlights is the new “PregnantReal Experience,” where two lucky audience members get VIP treatment.

“It’s a special box where two people will be picked to be seated and have special things happen to them. We don’t want to spoil that either, so I’ll leave it at that. ” One bit of warning to everyone making plans to attend, early arrival is recommended. According to Price, capacity at the intimate CIA Theater maxes out at about 60, but like most of Bakersfield’s independently run theaters, improvisational seating arrangements are allowed within reason.

“It’s the best show we’ve ever done in terms of audience, performance, energy and material,” said Price. “The hardest part is the costume change.”

Pregnantville presents “Immersion” Nov. 12, 19 and 26. Showtime is 10 p.m. Free admission.

Center For Improv Advancement Theater is located at 3401 Chester Ave. Visit ciacomedy.com

Matt’s pick Lucky Tubb and The Modern Day Troubadours at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m., Tuesday, $8, 324-2557.

Call yourself country? Then this is a show not to be missed. Carrying out the legacy of his greatuncle, honky-tonk music legend Ernest Tubb, Lucky’s style is reminiscent of the raw and original style of 1950s Nashville. Not a tribute show, this homage to that timeless sound is one of the best you’ll hear come to these parts. In the Tubb tradition, he’s full of twang to keep you two-steppin’ in the moonlight with songs like “Bakersfield,” inspired by our city.

Opening will be Steven Griswold and His California Convoy. Highly recommended.

33

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

NEW LOCATION

‘Menopause’ making hot flashes cool

BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer

If there’s one thing in this world that’s gender specific, it’s menopause — the unique rite of passage open only to mature women.

And “Menopause: The Musical,” in a one-night-only performance at the Fox Theater, is designed to show the hilarious side of hot flashes, night sweats, chocolate binges and other symptoms of the “change of life.”

Dee Etta Rowe, one of four cast members in “Menopause,” says she enjoys helping women laugh about it.

“Ladies come up on stage after the show and thank us,” said Rowe in a telephone interview. “A lot of them come to celebrate their 50th birthday — it’s like a big birthday party.”

Although there is some dialogue in the show, most of the story is told by way of parodies of about 25 songs of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. For example, "Stayin’ Alive" becomes "Stayin’ Awake," and “My Guy,” which Rowe said is one of her favorites, is switched to “My Thighs” with lines like “My thighs, everything sticks to my thighs.”

The show opens at a lingerie sale at Bloomingdale’s in New York with Rowe, as the Iowa Housewife, fighting with the Soap Star (Karoline Ashley) over a black lace bra.

“She (the housewife) has never been to New York before,” Rowe said.

“She’s all wide-eyed, thrilled to be there.”

The two women are joined by Earth Mother (Pammie O’Bannon) and Professional Woman (Lady Jesaira). All four quickly realize they have a lot in common — mainly that they’re not alone in the menopause adventure.

“Everybody has different symptoms,” Rowe said, “and everybody in the audience can identify with what goes on onstage.”

Since this is a concert version of the material, and not a full production, the show runs for about 80 minutes with no set or costume changes and no intermission.

This particular tour of “Menopause” is partly a benefit for the Jeanie C. Linders Fund, the actress said. Established in 2005, it is a nonprofit organization that tries to help empower, women, their families and their businesses.

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The cast of “Menopause: The Musical,” from left: Dee Etta Rowe, Pammie O'Bannon, Karoline Ashley and Lady Jesaira.

‘Menopause: The Musical’ When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Fox Theater, 2001 H St. Admission: $31 Information: 322-5200

“They’ll be selling ‘Hot Flash’ fans for $1 in the lobby and 100 percent will go to the fund,” Rowe said. “But they will only be sold before the performance, not after.”

Rowe, 58, has had a long career in show business. Her first appearance on Broadway was in “Most Happy Fella,” in 1979. Two years later she was an ensemble member in “Sweeney Todd,” a PBS television

movie with Angela Lansbury, who, she said, “treated us like our mother — always professional and kind.”

She also was in the original cast of “Nine,” with Raul Julia, which won the Tony for best musical in 1982.

Over the years she has had roles in “Nunsense,” “Annie,” and has appeared in numerous regional shows and with national touring companies.

For the past five years Rowe has been on tour with “Menopause.” She and her husband, Jim Ferrara, artistic director of the show, now are residents of Weeki Wachee Springs, Fla. “Everybody laughs when I say the name,” the actress said. “It’s famous for being the ‘home of the mermaids.’”

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CALIFORNIAN RADIO “Californian Radio” will be broadcasting live from 9 to 10 a.m. today outside the KERO-TV, Channel 23 studio, 321 21st St, at the sixth annual Share the Warmth Coat & Blanket Drive.

Come on by with your new or gently used donation of a coat or blanket and, who knows, you may end up on the

I

air with Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self and “Californian Radio” co-host Jeff Lemucchi.

We’ll be talking with Tim Calahan of the Bakersfield Rescue Mission on the needs of the area’s homeless.

As always, we welcome your calls: 842-KERN.

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34

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street

Donate the gift of warmth to area’s less fortunate THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

B

akersfield, infamous for its bipolar weather, decided late last week, when daytime highs veered from a mild 79 degrees on Thursday to a nippy 52 on Friday, that we’ve finally gone from summer/fall to fall/winter. A 27-degree difference, just like that. No gradual drop-off, no segue and, for many, no coat.

But KERO-TV, Channel 23, is working to address that need with Share the Warmth Coat & Blanket Drive, a one-day campaign to keep the community’s less fortunate from being chilled to the bone this winter.

New and gently used coats and blankets can be dropped off from 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at the local ABC affiliate, 321 21st St. The Bakersfield Rescue Mission and Community Action Partnership will distribute the items to the clients they serve.

And that help couldn’t come at a better time, according to a spokesman for the mission.

“Definitely we are seeing an uptrend this holiday season, which is probably the largest we’ve seen before,” said Tim Callahan, who joined the mission about six weeks ago as director of community development and communications. “On our Thanksgiving meal, historically they fed anywhere from 500 to 600 people. We’re estimating it could be over 1,000 to make it

through that meal (this year).”

The need, doubtless, comes as no surprise as the scarcity of jobs, the high foreclosure rate and other benchmarks indicate an economy still in the doldrums. But what has come as a bit of a shock to Callahan are the faces he’s seeing at the mission, which houses up to 300 a day at its East 21st Street campus and serves 16,000 meals a month.

“One thing I’ve noticed is the younger people, and that’s what’s kind of crazy.

Longtime supporters have noticed it, too.”

Last year, the drive collected 2,000 coats and 300 blankets, supplies that have pretty much been depleted from the shelves of the mission’s donation center.

Folks dropping off supplies today just may wander into a television shot, as KERO will broadcast throughout the day from the drop-off spot, outside the studio.

Also on hand will be radio personalities from KERO-AM, 1180. Broadcasting from the coat drive will be news anchors Jeff Lemucchi and Theresa Ebreo from 5 to 7 a.m., Scott Cox from 7 to 9 a.m., Californian Eye Street Editor Jennifer Self from 9 to 10 a.m. and the Moneywise Guys from 10 a.m. to noon.

“What we’re trying to do here is put a jacket on someone’s back who needs it,” Callahan said.

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Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Jose Galvan of Santa Clarita displays a rainbow trout he caught at the Trout Fishing Derby in January at Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation area.

A stout trout will give you $1,000 to brag about

BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

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longstanding local pastime, fishing brings together kids, parents and grandparents to enjoy a day in the great outdoors. Add the possibility of a winning a little holiday cash, and suddenly the family activity gets even more interesting.

The annual Trout Fishing Derby Saturday at Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Center’s Lake Evans will come alive as hundreds of participants cast their lines for a chance to reel in trout — and the fatter the better, if you’d like to win the grand prize.

“As people catch fish we weigh them throughout the day and the person with the heaviest wins $1,000,” said coordinator Shannon Jones. “There is also a prize for fish caught in each age category.”

But for Jones, it’s all about seeing families in action.

“It’s definitely a generational thing. You see younger kids with their dads and the grandparents are there, too. People really love to get away and do something out of the ordinary with the family.”

There are three age categories: 1 to 7 years old, 8 to 13 years old and 14 and up.

So there is a chance even the littlest fisherman could make some money.

And, if you are the lucky angler to pull the biggest fish out of the water and its weight is right, you could walk away with some really big cash.

“We also have another way to win money. There is a predetermined weight. If you have the heaviest trout of the day and the fish meet the two-decimal weight, you can win $25,000.”

If that sounds like a long shot, Jones said it’s not impossible to hit the jackpot.

“It actually happened a couple of years ago. Someone did get the heaviest fish and

Trout Fishing Derby When: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Buena Vista Lake Aquatic Center, Lake Evans, off Highway 43, 25 miles southwest of Bakersfield Registration: $20, 14 and up; $10, 13 and under. Register in advance at Bob's Bait Bucket, 2131 S. Chester Ave.; Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 West Side Highway, Taft; or Lake Evans on the day of the event.

Information: 765-2165

did come in at the weight, so it can be done. I don’t know what the odds are, but it has happened.”

The event kicks off at 6 a.m., and Lake Evans will be ready for contestants. Organizers will stock the lake two days before, so there will be plenty of fish to be had. But Jones recommends getting in line early or you may not find a free spot.

“Last year we had about 1,000 people come out, and we are expecting about the same amount this year.”

The derby isn’t just about bringing fishing and families together. According to Jones, the event benefits the Taft Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the derby.

“Registration fees go towards the event but a lot of the money we make goes back to the chamber so we can pay for our community events like farmers markets and the Christmas parade.”

While Jones is not a fisherman, she does know how fun it can be out on the water.

“My son is 5 and my daughter is 3 and their grandpa has a fishing boat. They go and sit out on the lake. It’s fun for the kids and my husband, who helps them throw out the fishing line. It’s really about bonding.”

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36

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street

Musical delivers the full Monty ‘Spamalot’ full of the humor that Python fanatics love

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

T

he film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” is considered a cult classic — a polite way of saying the film has a limited audience. But that certainly isn’t the case for the musical it inspired. Renamed “Spamalot,” the winner of three Tony Awards and a Broadway smash is “lovingly ripped off” from the 1975 film. Now on tour, the irreverent comedy stops at the Rabobank Theater for one performance on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

The story is as crazy as it sounds: King Arthur is traveling the English countryside with his servant, Patsy, trying to recruit knights for his Round Table. In the course of his travels he meets Sir Lancelot, the Homicidally Brave; Sir Robin, the Not-SoBrave-As-Sir-Lancelot; Sir Bedevere, the Strangely Flatulent; Sir Dennis Galahad, the Dashingly Handsome; and other characters, before being commanded by God to seek the Holy Grail.

The knights are horseless

‘Spamalot’ When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Where: Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $25 to $52.50 plus fee Information: ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000

horsemen, followed by servants banging coconut shells together to make the sound of horses’ hooves. Their quest takes them to a French castle, where they are mercilessly taunted and forced to run away from catapulted cows, a challenge by the maniacal Black Knight, the terrifying Knights who say Ni, Tim the Enchanter, and the Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog.

As this is a Broadway musical, the film was revised to include numerous references and parodies of Broadway sacred cows, including “West Side Story,” “Man of La Mancha,” “Les Miserables,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and a “tribute” to Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The show was written by Eric Idle, an original member of the Python troupe, along with longtime collaborator John Du Prez.

The show was nominated for 14 Tonys, and won for Best Musical, Best Featured Actress in a Musical

MONTYPYTHONSSPAMALOT.COM

“Spamalot” is inspired by the Monty Python troupe’s take on the legend of King Arthur and the search for the Holy Grail.

and Best Direction of a Musical.

The source of the show, “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” was written by the founding members of “Monty Python’s Flying Circus,” consisting of John Cleese, Graham Chapman, Idle, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, and American Terry Gilliam. Idle changed the name of the musical to “Spamalot” after a lyric in the musical number “Knights of the Round Table” (“We eat ham, and jam, and Spam a lot.”)

Graduates of Oxford and Cambridge, the comedians had worked in various combinations on a number of British television shows before an offer from the ITV network gave them the

chance to work as a team.

The sketch-based show, interspersed with bizarre animations

by Gilliam, ran from 1969 to 1974 in England, and became a great favorite with college students and other niche audiences in the United States. Their growing popularity made it possible for the group to transition into filmmaking, including “Holy Grail,” “The Life of Brian,” and “The Meaning of Life.”

Inner tensions, caused in part

by Chapman’s alcoholism and disagreements over new projects, caused the group to dissolve the Flying Circus, but the performers continued to work together on such shows as “Ripping Yarns,”

“Fawlty Towers” and several of Gilliam’s films.

Ironically, the group that lived to skewer institutions in the most irreverent way possible found themselves an institution. Not only did their humor inspire a hit musical, the comedians also inspired later generations of comics and comedy shows such as “Saturday Night Live.” The word “Pythonesque” is included in standard dictionaries and refers to surreal humor; each of the original Pythons has an asteroid named in his honor; and there is even a species of prehistoric snake, the Montypythonoides riversleighensis, named for the group.

CSUB goes all out: Jazz, orchestral and choral

BY SUSAN SCAFFIDI Contributing writer

T

his weekend’s marathon of concerts by the CSUB music department includes a Veterans Day tribute, a clinic for student singers, jazz and the long-awaited return of the chamber orchestra.

University of Arizona conductor and clinician Elizabeth Schauer will work with university and high school singers during the day on Friday to prepare the singers for their part in Friday evening’s concert by the CSUB choir and chamber choir.

“Singers will be encouraged in their vocal production and developing a rich, full singing voice,” said Robert Provencio, head of the CSUB choral program.

Provencio said Schauer is known for her ability to diagnose and solve problems singers sometimes have.

“She is able to take many different tacks to address singers’ issues, whether it be modeling, demonstration, rhythm exercises,” Provencio said.

Following the clinic, the combined groups of singers will perform the final segment of the evening’s program, which

CSUB Music Department concerts When: Choral, 8 p.m. Friday; Jazz Ensemble, 8 p.m. Saturday; Chamber Orchestra, 4 p.m. Sunday Where: Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway Admission: $10; $5 students and seniors Information: 654-2156

is dedicated to veterans. “(The concert) is about the experiences of the military family,” Provencio said.

The concert program includes works from the Baroque period, the 19th century, gospel and spirituals, plus recently composed works. Provencio said the concert reflects reliance on God, mourning loved ones lost in battle, heroism and the point of view of those waiting at home. Composers represented include Claudio Monteverdi, George Frederick Handel, Randall Thompson, Eric Whitacre, Maurice Durufle’ and Roy Ringwald.

Saturday evening is devoted to the big

band jazz ensemble, directed by Doug Davis. Davis said the program is a mix of the traditional and the contemporary, including a complicated piece of multiple layers of repeated patterns, in the very difficult time signature of 15 beats per measure.

“I’m just hoping (the band) won’t hurt me,” Davis said.

Saturday evening’s concert also includes music by Dizzy Gillespie and Wayne Shorter, and features student soloist Merritt Holloway and guest soloists Ken Bausano, Paul Perez and David Kay. Davis comes back to the podium on Sunday afternoon with the return of the CSUB chamber orchestra.

“Certainly, it is new territory,” Davis said.

“It was the desire of our students (to reform the orchestra).”

Provencio said CSUB has been without an orchestra since instrumental professor Gordon Mehling retired in 2003. With the discontinuation of the orchestra at Bakersfield College at the end of the last academic year, Provencio, who also chairs the music department, said the situation for students was unacceptable.

“To go into this academic year with no collegiate-level orchestra — I just couldn’t allow that,” Provencio said.

Provencio credits the success of the chamber group program at the university with attracting enough students — especially string players — to be able to have an orchestra, albeit a small one.

“We’re thrilled, a little quietly, because it’s going to take some time to build it into a serious ensemble,” Provencio said.

“We did have a very heartwarming response from the community, primarily members of the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra,” Davis said. “And they said they would help us.”

Davis said the program will showcase several student performers: Robert Morales will conduct the “Peer Gynt” Suite

by Edvard Grieg; clarinetist Brock Christian will perform the Concertino for Clarinet by Carl Maria von Weber; and the Double Violin Concerto by Antonio Vivaldi will feature Jason Gomez and Suzanne Botha.

The orchestra will also perform Benjamin Britten’s “Simple Symphony.”

“It’s a delightful piece,” Davis said. “It gives lots of color to the strings.”

37

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Dads glad to share tales from frontline for book

BY JASON SPERBER Contributing writer

F

atherhood is changing. Single fathers, stay-at-home-dads with breadwinning spouses, partners in twoincome families seeking flexible work schedules in order to be more present at home — all of these are challenging old roles and reshaping what it means to be a modern, involved, engaged dad.

A new anthology, “Rad Dad: Dispatches from the Frontiers of Fatherhood,” chronicles these changes through a myriad of fathers’ voices. I am lucky enough to have a piece that was originally published online reprinted in the book.

The book culls the best of the Rad Dad print zine, founded by Oakland writer and teacher Tomás Moniz, and group blog Daddy Dialectic, founded by San Francisco journalist Jeremy Adam Smith.

I am happy to have co-editor Moniz join me tonight, as well as local writer Nick Belardes, at a family-friendly reading at Russo’s Books.

The authors in “Rad Dad” explore parenting, and specifically this changing idea of fatherhood, as political territory, but do so through their own personal experiences.

When I became a stay-at-home-dad in Bakersfield seven years ago, I had a hard time finding others and a not-always-easy

‘Rad Dad’ reading/signing Who: Rad Dad zine founders Tomás Muñoz and Jeremy Adam Smith, contributor Jason Sperber When: 6:30 p.m. today Where: Russo's Books, 9000 Ming Ave. Information: 665-4686

Presents The 22nd Annual

Holiday Home Tour December 2 & 3, 2011 • 10am to 4pm Tour 3 Area Homes Coffee, Snacks and Great Shopping at Assistance League® of Bakersfield

1924 Q St. (R Street Entrance) Tickets available at:

time integrating into a mother-dominated environment. I started blogging as a way of connecting with others across the country to share experiences.

This anthology is another way of continuing that conversation about the changing nature of modern parenthood, and we look forward to talking with others in person at Russo’s about their experiences.

Moniz and I will be joined on Saturday at 5 p.m. at Skylight Books in Los Angeles for another fun-filled, family-friendly reading event, with special guests children’s author Lisa Yee and children’s musician Mista Cookie Jar. Jason Sperber was community content coordinator for The Bakersfield Californian and is now a stay-at-home-dad of two daughters. He blogs at daddyinastrangeland.com and RiceDaddies.com.

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38

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street

‘Every teenager in town should see’ play

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

D

arkness falls sooner this time of year, leading many to

turn to more serious thoughts. If you’re in search of thought-provoking entertainment, look no farther than Bakersfield Community Theatre’s “The

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Giver,” which is in its final weekend.

Based on the 1993 novel of the same name by children’s author Lois Lowry, “The Giver” is a tale of a future society that has found a way to remove strife — by forcing people and the environment into “sameness.”

“They don’t see color, they don’t hear music.

Nothing can incite passion,” said the show’s director, Eric Tolley. “They have climate control, no snow, no rain.”

A show dominated by a totalitarian government may seem old hat for Tolley, who last directed The Empty Space’s “Beirut,” a tale of lovers in a nation ravaged by disease.

“A near-future play.

Seems like a theme with me, right?”

Unlike the lovers in “Beirut,” the pair at the heart of this show are the Giver and Jonas, a boy chosen to take over the role of the keeper of all of society’s memories, good and bad.

“Society that has rejected all diversity, all differences, yet they have maintained the memory of the ‘before time’ in one person. This person (The Giver) is their

conscience, their adviser, at once revered and isolated.

As the Giver, played by Porter Jamison, begins the process with Jonas (Brendan Arvizu), the boy begins to understand how limited the rest of the world is.

“As he’s getting memories, he realizes what people have lost. They don’t feel love because love could cause strife.”

The responsibility of memory is too great for some as a flashback reveals the previously selected child, Rosemary (Victoria Lusk), who could not live with the burden.

“She’s there but as a memory. She doesn’t speak. It’s very beautiful and very sad.”

She asks to be “released,” which, like “renewal” in “Logan’s Run,” is a euphemism for euthanization.

Jonas also struggles with the memories, especially as he knows the fate of Gabe, the child set to be released because he cannot sleep through the night.

Without giving away too much of the plot, Jonas and the Giver come up with a plan to save Gabe and change the world in the process.

Along with an “amazing” cast — including Luis Tor-

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‘The Giver’ When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m.

Sunday Where: Bakersfield Community Theatre, 2400 S. Chester Ave. Admission: $12; $10 for 12 and under; free for children 5 and under.

Information: 831-8114

res, Mark Terango, Juliana Paz, Karalee Webb, Christina Teixeira, Malesa Farris, Alexis Luken and Alexis Philippi — the show is worth seeing for its provocative subject matter, Tolley said.

While heavy at times, the production, billed as a BCT children’s show, is right for a younger audience.

“I think every teenager in town should see it. It asks some fundamentally difficult questions.”

Appointing one person to carry all the memories (and serve as the sounding board on every major decision) is one such quandary.

“If you think about it, can you imagine the mental anguish, to have the weight of these horrible memories — a woman los-

ing her child, war, bullying.

You’ve got all the good memories as well, (but) I don’t know, could that sustain you?”

The government’s control over families also prompts discussion, as genetically designed babies born to “birthmothers” are given to a pair united not in love but the ability “to raise a balanced human.”

“Is it right for the government to practice this level of eugenics or eugenics at all? You talk about ‘1984’ government, it takes that to the extreme and (the people) don’t even know it.”

Tolley said the show had a good opening weekend, with attendance at about 30 per performance.

Of course, “we’re hoping for larger audiences this weekend.”

Getting out to see a live show, at BCT or any of the theaters in town, is a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed, Tolley said.

“I believe that once they experience theater they will want to come back. If you give people a piece that touches them somehow, if it makes them laugh, cry, they will want to come back, and they will.”

39

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street GO&DO Today “Share the Warmth: Coat & Blanket Drive,” hosted by KERO 23 and Azteca 42; 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., at KERO 23, 321 21st St. Benefitting Bakersfield Rescue Mission and Community Action Partnership of Kern. 6372320.

Condors vs. Idaho Steelheads, 7 p.m. today through Saturday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $11 to $25. bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825.

Dead Poets Live, with Don Thompson, Gary Hill, Kevin Shah, Portia Choi, Ann Williams and others, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Russo’s, 9000 Ming Ave. 665-4686.

Red Cross New Volunteer Orientation, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., American Red Cross, Kern Chapter, 5035 Gilmore Ave. 324-6427.

BAPAC Community Information Meeting, 6 to 8 p.m., Bakersfield Senior Center.

747-1465.

Bingo, warm ups start at 5 p.m., with early birds at 6 p.m., regular games at 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Center of Kern County, 2801 F St. From $20 buy-in to “the works.” 395-9787.

Friday “Fill the Van with Cans” Food Drive, benefitting the Bakersfield Rescue Mission; stop by the parking lot with a canned food item, 6 to 11 a.m., located behind Baja Fresh, 24th & M St. 472-5754.

Military Vehicle Show, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. Free. minterfieldairmuseum.com.

Trippin’ the 60’s Veterans Benefit Concert, with Barry McGuire, 6 to 9 p.m., New Beginnings Church, 1800 Height St. $10; $5 veterans. Visit trippinthesixties.com or 8731477.

92nd Veterans Day Parade, parade will begin at 10 a.m., at 21st and L St. 324-9453.

Veterans Day Breakfast, 6:30 a.m., American Legion Post 26 Hall, 2020 H St. $6. 324-9453 or 203-2196.

Veterans Day Lunch & Open House, noon, American Legion Post 26 Hall, 2020 H St. $7. 324-9453 or 203-2196.

Veterans Fair, barbecue, presentation, music, 3 to 6 p.m., Kern Veterans Memorial, Truxtun Ave. and S St. 979-0241.

CSUB Singers & Friends, 8 to 9 p.m., CSUB, Doré Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. $10, $5 seniors/students, free for CSUB students w/ID. 654-2156.

Military Vehicle Show, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. Free. minterfieldairmuseum.com.

Saturday "Dude, Where's My Sleigh?," 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $6. 5873377.

“Menopause The Musical,” doors open at 7 p.m., show begins at 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $28 plus fee. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

13th annual “Stockdale Band Spectacular,” honoring our local veterans and active military, gates open at noon, Stockdale High School, 2800 Buena Vista Road. $8 adults, $6 seniors and students w/ASB cards; $5 children ages 5-12; children under 5 are free. 665-2800 ext. 65.

Certified Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. CSUB Jazz Ensemble, 8 to 9 p.m., CSUB, Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. $10, $5 seniors/students, free for CSUB students w/ID. 654-2156.

GO & DO

Yokuts Park Fun Run, practice racing and earn points, 7 a.m., Yokuts Park, Empire Drive off Truxtun Avenue. No fee. bakersfieldtrackclub.com or 203-4196 or 391-7080.

KV Golf Course's 50th Anniversary Open House, with giveaways, from 1 to 4 p.m., Kern Valley Golf Course, 9472 Burlando Road, Kernville. 760-376-2828.

Sunday

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Louie Marino jams on stage at Trout’s while Merle watches his moves during a Kern River Blues Society event in January.

Trout’s, Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday at 805 N. Chester Ave. 872-7517.

DRB Roller Derby vs. Sin Cal Visalia Roller Girls, roller derby, 7 p.m., Saunders Park, 3300 Palm St. $10 presale online at myderbyrevolution.com; $12 at the door; $5 seniors/children. 706-0984.

Educational Open House, 10 a.m. to noon, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Free. bmoa.org or 323-7219.

Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road.

I’m With the Band Fundraiser, to fund music education in local public city schools, music by Mento Buru, food by Chef’s Noodle Bar, wine, silent auction, 6 to 10 p.m., Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. $40. Visit imwiththeband.org.

Kern Audubon Society, field trip to Pixley National Wildlife Refuge, meet at Costco parking lot on Rosedale Highway, 3 p.m.

Dress warmly, bring binoculars, and flashlight. $10 for transportation. kernaudubonsociety.org or 805-0232.

Model Railroad Month Celebration, open house, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., GEHAMS Clubhouse, 1534 19th St. (entrance is in the alley behind Chef’s Choice Noodle Restaurant). 331-6695.

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, presents “Revolution, Nationalism, and Evocation,” 8 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $34 to $50; full-time students half price. bakersfieldsymphony.org or call 323-7928.

Spirit 88.9/100.1 Turkey's for T-Shirts, help the hungry this holiday season, by bringing your donation of a frozen turkey, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sonic Drive-In, 8875 Rosedale Highway. 472-5754.

Star Party with Kern Astronomical Society, 8 to 10 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 487-2519.

Tehachapi Loop Railroad Model Train Show, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, West Park, Recreation & Parks District, 491 West D St., Tehachapi. Free. 821-5271.

Trout Fishing Derby, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area, Lake Evans, Highway 43, 25 miles southwest of Bakersfield. $20; $10 children 14 and under.

765-2165.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10859, Rosedale & Ladies Auxiliary, 9:30 a.m., Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive. 588-5865.

2011 House Concert Series with Willson and McKee, 4 p.m. $22; $20 for Arts Council of Kern members; $10 students. Venue details are released once a ticket has been purchased, 324-9000.

CSUB Chamber Orchestra, 4 to 6 p.m., CSUB, Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. $10, $5 seniors/students, free for CSUB students with ID. 654-2156.

Death Penalty Talk, 7 p.m., First Congregational Church, 5 Real Rd.; 12:15 p.m. Monday, CSUB, Science II Room 180, 9001 Stockdale Hwy. Free. 654-2291.

Pioneer Event, sponsored by Bakersfield Country Music Museum, 1 to 5 p.m., Stockdale Moose Lodge, 905 Stine Road. Free for members; $10 nonmembers. 366-6003.

THEATER “First Fall,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $15 general; $10 students/seniors. 327-PLAY. “Love, Sex and the IRS,” doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $45 to $55; show-only tickets $35; matinee $45 to $50. 325-6100.

“The Giver,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Bakersfield Community The-

ater, 2400 S. Chester Ave. $12; $10 for 12 and under; free for children 5 and under. 8318114.

“The Phantom of the Melodrama,” followed by the vaudeville revue “Merry Olde England” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m.

Sunday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $12 to $23.

587-3377.

“Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. $15. 634-0692.

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

Major League Improv, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted. 327PLAY.

ART Art Reception, for a juried art competition, 5 to 8 p.m. today, Maya Cinemas, 1000 California Ave. 636-0490.

“A Time to Write,” 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Mercy Art & Spirituality Center, 2215 Truxtun Ave. mercybakersfield.org/art or 632-5747.

“Wake Up & Smell the Coffee,” group art show for November, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806.

West High School student artwork, on display through November, The Dream Center & Coffee House, 1212 18th St. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 327-2402.

Please see 40

40

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 10, 2011

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 39

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

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

Bakersfield Art Association Meeting, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 869-2320.

Beginning Scrapbook Class, 10 a.m. Saturday, Picture Perfect & Stamps of Approval, 112 E. Tehachapi Blvd., Tehachapi. Free.

Reservations must be made, 8231777.

Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, offers youth art, clay sculpture, stained glass, and silver jewelry, Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. For times and dates call 327-7507.

The Art of Encaustics Demonstration with Julia, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. $25 members, $30 non-members. bmoa.org or 323-7219.

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

MUSIC Blues Trout’s, Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday at 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517.

Classic Rock Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Sunday Snake Oil, 9 p.m. Friday; Deb Seed, 9 p.m. Saturday.

Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 110, 325-2535; Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St., 3280034; No Limit, 6 p.m. Sunday.

Julie's The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., Left Coast Groovies, 7 p.m. Friday.

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

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

Wednesdays.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd., 3287560; Monty Bryom & the Buckaroos, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Dancing African Dance for Fitness,

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

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

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

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

Diana’s Pit Stop, 10807 Rosedale Highway, 587-8888; 8 p.m. Mon-

COMING IN EYE

JACLYN BOROWSKI / THE CALIFORNIAN

The beef teriyaki with a side green salad at Stix Asian Grill.

As soon as she laid eyes on it, the dining companion of Californian food critic Pete Tittl announced: “I want half of that.” To learn what menu item at the newly renamed and reconfigured Stix Asian Grill at the Clarion Hotel inspires such a pronouncement, read Tittl’s review on Sunday. taught by national touring artists, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 1 to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Su Studio Dance Academy, 1515 21st St. $5$7 per class. africandanceclasses.com or 760917-3685.

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

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

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

Mavericks Singles, Red, White and Blue Dance, with music by Country George, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $6 member; $8 guest. 831-9241.

Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Pairs and Spares Dance, with Jerri Arnold, Country George and Ed Shelton, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5; $7 nonmembers.

399-3575.

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

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

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

Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; Deejay Redeemed, Deejay SoFly and more, 8:30 p.m. Friday. $5. D

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

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

Imbibe Wine & Spirits Merchant, 4140 Truxtun Ave., 633WINE; live music & wine bar with featuring local artists, along with 24 wines, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday; featuring Jazz Connection, along with 24 wines, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday; and 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays.

Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; Lisa Mezzacappa's Bait & Switch, 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St., 4274900; Mauro and Rico Velazquez, 7 p.m. Thursday.

Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St., 4274900; Jazz & Martinis, 6 to 10 p.m.

Tuesday.

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

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

Thursdays and Tuesdays.

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

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

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

Cactus Valley Mexican Restaurant, 4215 Rosedale Highway, 633-1948; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Thursday; beer pong and happy hour all day Sunday.

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.

days and Thursdays.

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesdays and Thursdays.

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

Le Corusse Rouge, 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 4647 White Ln. 834-1611.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesdays.

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

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

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; with Irish Monkey Entertainment, 6:30 to 11 p.m. Thursdays.

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

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

Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The Wright Place, 2695-G Mount Vernon Ave., 872-8831, 8 p.m. every Thursday.

Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 1440 Weedpatch Hwy. 363-5102.

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

Pizzeria, 4200 Gosford Road, 3971111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

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

Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays.

Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 399-6700; 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

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

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

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

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

Old school Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 110, 325-2535; The Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday.

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

Tam O'Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; The Press, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5.

Please see 41

41

Thursday, November 10, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 40

Open Mic Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 324-2557; Bakotopia Unplugged Open-Mic Night, 8 p.m., signups begin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; 9 p.m.

Wednesdays.

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

Vinny's Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., Redemption Plan, Midnight Sinners and Plasma Cannon, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5; 21 and over.

Top 40 DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111; 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Friday.

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.

Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Variety Padre Hotel, 1702 18th St., 427-4900; Sunday Funday with local bands, 6 to 10 p.m.

Sundays.

T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 District Blvd., 398-1300; Elevation 406, 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Friday.

UPCOMING Monday 11/14 Kern County Rose Society, socializing 6:30 p.m., meeting 7 p.m., Calvary Bible Church, 48 Manor St. 327-3228.

The Bakersfield Winds Concert, 7:30 p.m., Olive Drive Church, 5500 Olive Drive. $5. 204-0334.

Volunteer Mentor Orientation, for Garden Pathways, 6 to 7 p.m., 3509 Union Ave. 633-9133.

Tuesday 11/15 Condors vs. Stockton Thunder, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $11 to $25. bakersfieldcondors.com or 324-7825.

Job Transition Workshop, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 4500 Buena Vista Road. Free. 800-847-4836.

Taste of Home Cooking School, 3:30 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $15 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-7453000.

Wednesday 11/16 21st annual Christmas Dinner, 4 to 7 p.m., Clay’s Restaurant, 1530 California Ave. Free.

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

Kern Photography Association, all skill levels welcome, 6 to 8 p.m., Henley’s Photo, 2000 H St. kernphotographyassociation.com or 4963723.

Monty Python’s Spamalot-Broadway in Bakersfield, 7:30 p.m., Rabobank Theater, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $25-$52.50 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

Thursday 11/17 CSUB Guitar Recital, 4 to 5 p.m., CSUB, Music Building, Room 127, 9001 Stockdale Highway. Free. 654-2511.

Disaster Volunteer Meeting, 6 p.m., American Red Cross, Kern Chapter, 5035 Gilmore Ave. 324-6427.

Free Admission Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, 2018 Chester Ave. 324-6350.

Kern County Mineral Society, meeting, 7:30 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Rd. 834-3128.

Piccadilly Circus, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m., Kern County Fairgrounds, Budweiser Pavilion, 1142 S. P St. $28 adults advance; $11 children advance; $30 adults VIP; $18 children VIP. Ticket prices increase day of show. 8334900.

Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, featuring Newsboys, Kutless, Matthew West, Fireflight, KJ-52, doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $10 at the door. jamtour.com.

Friday 11/18 “Solutions to Bullying” Training Workshop, presented by Wayne Sakamoto, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., University Square Building, Room US-1, 2000 K St. $35 includes continental breakfast. 636-4652.

19th Annual Teen, Miss & Mrs. Bakersfield Pageant, 7:30 p.m., Bridge Bible Church, 12225 Stockdale Highway. $15 at the door. 664-6038.

CSUB Chamber Music, 7:30 p.m., CSUB, Dore Theatre, 9001 Stockdale Highway. $10; $5 students/seniors; free for CSUB students w/ID. 654-2156.

Hot Fest 2011, with The Game, T-Pain, Far East Movement, Kat Deluna, Kreayshawn and more, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $20-$50 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or call 800-7453000.

Strung Out with Jughead’s Revenge, 9 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $12. vallitix.com or 322-5200.

The Pixies, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $39-$75. vallitix.com or 3225200.

Saturday 11/19 19th annual Olive Knolls Craft Fair, with over 50 vendors, breakfast and lunch available for $5, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Olive Knolls Church, 6201 Fruitvale Ave. 399-3303.

2nd annual Turkey Trot Charity Motorcycle Ride, motorcycle ride from the Kern High School District parking lot at 5801 Sundale Ave. to the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, 10 a.m. cbeatty@khsd.k12.ca.us or jeff_larma@khsd.k12.ca.us.

Bakersfield Homeless Center Turkey Trot Walk/Run, registration 6:30 a.m., walk/race begins at 8 a.m., lil’Gobbler run at 9 a.m., Yokuts Park, 4200 Empire Drive. $25 registration day of event for those 17 and under; $30 adults; $15 Lil Gobbler Run. 3229199.

Casino Night, benefitting the Tehachapi Fire Survivors Fundraiser, 6 to 11 p.m., 18100 Lucaya Way, Tehachapi. $40 advance; $60 Texas Hold’Em Tournament. Visit canyonfire.eventbrite.com.

Central Coast Gun Show & Sale, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St. $9; $3 parking. 805-481-6726.

Craft Fair, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., New Life Christian School, 4201 Stine Road. Free; interested vendors pay for space. 831-6252 ext. 321.

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Clarion Hotel 3540 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield Thur., 11/17 at 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

Clarion Hotel 3540 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield Tue., 11/29 at 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

Clarion Hotel 3540 Rosedale Hwy. Bakersfield

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Health Net. A Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefits. For more information contact the plan. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1, 2013. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-877-827-6888 (TTY/ TDD: 1-800-929-9955), 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 7 days a week.

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Material ID # H0562_2012_0311 File & Use 09142011