Eye Street Entertainment / 12-8-11 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

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

Index “Nutcracker” ............................................ 23 28th Annual Bakersfield Toy Run ............ 23 Museum of Art winter exhibitions ........ 24 Oildale Parade .......................................... 25 Arts Alive .................................................. 26 Pauly Shore .............................................. 27 The Lowdown with Matt Munoz.............. 28 Calendar .............................................. 33-35

Scott Cox CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Fishlips forever Radio host recalls best of times at downtown venue

he war in Iraq started about the time that I became a regular at Fishlips — appropriate, really, considering that the owners and I would eventually raise thousands of dollars for the troops serving over there. I just never expected that my favorite hangout would end before the war did. But the building has sold, and co-owners (and my good friends) Shawna Haddad-Byers and Andrew Wilkins are closing up shop — but not before seeing the old girl off in style, with a farewell rave-up weekend of entertainment, sandwiched by comedy tonight (Pauly Shore) and a blistering final music set Monday (Gary HoHo Hoey). I will never forget the times I had in that wonderful bar. And the best memories aren’t even about the artists or the shows necessarily. They’re about all the regular folks who went there to enjoy great live music. Those are my people. Not the richest or the fanciest or the best dressed — just the coolest. I’ll also forever be impressed by Shawna and Drew’s unequivocal, unwavering support for our troops. Every time one of Shawna’s Marines went off to fight, a yellow ribbon went up in the bar, and stayed there until their safe return. And I’m really proud of the fact that while a lot of people talked about supporting the troops, the crew at Fishlips is responsible for putting more than 20,000 care packages in the hands of men and women serving in Iraq. I thought that with the shows winding down at my favorite live venue, it would be an opportune time to recount some of the coolest, most memorable experiences I’ve had there (not in any particular order). Scottstock: I had this crazy idea that we could raise money for the troops without resorting to golf. We had guitars from Buck Owens (thanks much, Jerry and Mel), Merle Haggard, Joe Bonamassa and a few others. Grant Langston & The Supermodels, Paul Chesne and a couple of local bands played. I had no idea what I was doing, but Shawna did. We raised way more money than I thought we would for a great group, Operation Interdependence. Each year, we conned more and more artists into signing more and more gear, the crowds got bigger, and so did the value of the axes we raffled and auctioned. I’ll never forget the morning of that last Scottstock. At 11 a.m., we were still without the Metallica-autographed guitar, and I was freaking right out. But then the doorbell rang at 11:55. That guitar went for $7,500. Ray Wylie Hubbard: I was, and am, a huge fan of Ray’s. So when I heard that he

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT COX

When Paul Chesne’s in the house — as the performer and his band will be Sunday for one last time at Fishlips — you’d be a fool to be anywhere else than front row at the show.

Autographed by Metallica, this guitar fetched a record-breaking $7,500 at the last Scottstock, the annual benefit to help troops overseas. But the guitar was delivered, in true rock star fashion, very late — which led to a very un-rock star reaction from yours truly.

was playing in L.A., I checked his schedule and saw he had an open date before that show. So I called Shawna and begged her to get him, and she did. I told everyone I knew about the show and hoped for the

best. I knew that a half-empty house would cost Fishlips money, and likely keep Ray from ever coming back. Worse yet, what if he went back to Texas and told other great artists that Bakersfield is a bad place to play. I was a nervous wreck the day of, but by 15 minutes before showtime, the place was packed. I’m pretty sure I cried a little at that point. Monty Byrom opened, and was predictably excellent. My son and I were in the back room with Ray, who was teaching my kid how to play the greatest song ever written, “Chocktaw Bingo.” So when it came time for Ray to play it, he got Brett up there to play along. That moment lives to this day on YouTube. Dick Dale: “The King of the Surf Guitar” played so fast during “Misirlou” that he actually melted a pick. I’m not kidding. He threw it to me and it was still hot. And that wasn’t even the coolest moment of the show; that happened when Mr. Dale, wire-

less transmitter on his belt, walked of the stage playing “Smoke on the Water.” And by that, I don’t mean after playing it — I mean in the middle of the song. He went out the front door, across the sidewalk, and stopped right in the middle of 18th Street, just cranking out the rock. Passers-by didn’t quite know what to think but must’ve sensed that they were part of something great. He continued right into the tattoo shop across the street before returning to the stage just in time to finish the song. I saw Buddy Guy do that trick at the Fox years ago, but he didn’t have to deal with traffic. Dick Dale is a force of nature. Gary Hoey ’09: Like we’ll do this year, we were going to make some cash for Operation Interdependence, and we had a custom-painted Stratocaster for the event. Gary and the band were killing it. Then, in between songs, he decided to show off the prize guitar. He put his strap on Please see 32

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

‘Nutcracker’: the next generation Past performers see own children in show BY STEFANI DIAS Californian assistant lifestyles editor sdias@bakersfield.com

ith 37 years of local performances, the “Nutcracker” ballet has become a tradition for many Bakersfield families — both in the audience and on the stage. “I’ve got dancers who used to dance for me whose children are now performing in it,” said Cindy Trueblood, whose dance company, Civic Dance Center, will partner for the 34th year with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of conductor John Farrer, to present the Tchaikovsky classic for four performances this weekend. This year alone, there are three examples of daughters in the current production whose mothers danced in the local ballet years ago: Lauren Garcia and mom, Jennifer; Lindsay and Megan Monroe and their mother, Tracie; and Natalie and Chloe McArthur, whose mom, Ann Conrad, is one of the show’s assistant directors as well as a

‘Nutcracker’ ballet When: 7:30 p.m. Friday; 1 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday Where: Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: $34 to $38 plus fee. Full-time students half price with ID; children 6 and under are free. Information: ticketmaster.com or 800745-3000

teacher at Civic Dance Center. Conrad said that she’s been excited to see her girls grow as dancers and understand what she does. “I don’t think they realized in years past. They knew I teach the advance class, but now we can share our talents together. Finally they’re asking me for advice. They’re realizing they have me as a resource. I can help them become better dancers.” Growing up in Bakersfield, Conrad started dancing at age 6, studying with the Truebloods by age 12, when she first appeared in the local “Nutcracker.” Too Please see 32

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

“Nutcracker” assistant director Ann Conrad and her daughters, Chloe McArthur, 10, and Natalie McArthur, 13. The girls are dancing in the local production, as their mother did years ago. More photos on page 15.

Young hearts soar when engines roar BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

oliday carols certainly set the mood this time of year, but it’s a different kind of music — the roar of 6,000 engines — that will make the difference for less-fortunate children on Christmas morning. The 28th Annual Bakersfield Toy Run and Food Drive hits the road Sunday as motorcycles, cars, ATVs and golf carts decked out in holiday finery invade Beach Park. But it’s not so much the mode of transportation as the cargo that counts: Participants will bring toys, food or cash for entry into the ride, donations that will make the difference for thousands of Kern County families. “The total donation last year was $17,000 in cash, about two tons of food and between 2,400 and 2,500 toys,” said Don Oldaker, president of the Bakersfield Toy Run and Food Drive. “All of the donations we bring in go to covering the cost of next year’s run and then straight to the Salvation Army. We don’t make a dime in profits. This is all run by volunteers and it’s all about the kids.” Oldaker and his team has been working for months to get the spectacle in gear. The event has grown from an estimated 50 attendees when it kicked off nearly three decades ago to 6,000 riders and counting.

28th Annual Bakersfield Toy Run and Food Drive When: Sunday; staging begins at 7 a.m.; ride at 10 a.m. Where: Beach Park, 3400 21st St. Route: From Beach Park east on 21st Street to Chester Avenue. South on Chester Avenue to Belle Terrace. East on Belle Terrace to P Street. South on P Street to the Kern County Fairgrounds. Registration: $20 donation, either in cash, food or toy Information: bakersfieldtoyrun.org

“Last year Beach Park was full. The entire wrap-around was filled with bikes. We had people lined up on 21st Street, in the Jim Burke Ford parking lot, down Westwind Drive and around the corner.” Staging kicks off at 7 a.m. at Beach Park; attendees hit the road at 10 a.m. With engines roaring, the holiday horde will cruise down 21st Street to Chester Avenue, then onto Belle Terrace with the route ending at the Kern County Fairgrounds. That’s where toy donations, non-perishable food items and cash will be given to the Salvation Army. Though the sheer number of vehicles is impressive, Oldaker said it’s the decor that

really gets people in the holiday mood. And to make it interesting, organizers offer a decorating competition, with prizes for the best holiday bike, car and golf cart or ATV. “Santa is our judge,” Oldaker said. “Before the ride he will walk around and make the decision at the park then the winners are announced when the ride is done at the fairgrounds.” While motorcyclists make up the vast majority of ride participants, Oldaker warned against underestimating the spunk of those on four wheels instead of two. “There are a lot of bikes with a lot of decorations, but some of those golf carts are just insane.” As for the street-legal four-wheel rides, Oldaker said car lovers are in for blast from the past at the toy run. “There are a lot of really nice cars out there. The Camaro Club and Corvette Club comes out. It reminds me of when I was young, when cars had really big motors and made the ground shake. That stuff puts a smile on kids’ faces.” Friendship and camaraderie play a big part in the success of the annual run. Oldaker noted the staging for the ride is as much about meeting up and shaking hands as it is about getting in line. “Most people just spend the first couple of hours walking around and meeting their

friends,” he said “There are a lot of people who come out that have been coming for years. For most, if you come once you end up coming every year after that. We don’t lose people unless they move away and still we have people coming from out of town back to Bakersfield every year for this.” Free coffee and about 60 dozen doughnuts will be available at Beach Park, and vendors will be selling Toy Run T-shirts, ride pins and breakfast burritos. If the morning social hour isn’t enough, a bigger party is waiting at the fairgrounds when the ride is over. Vendors selling everything from bike gear to accessories will be on hand, as well as beer trucks. Bands Really Big Midgetz and Celtic punk rockers 1916 will be hitting the stage to entertain the masses. Partying aside, Oldaker said the event is really about helping families and children, something the volunteers never forget. “The people that take care of this corporation couldn’t put this on without the volunteers. All of the people from the different motorcycle communities that volunteer their time really do it for the kids. All of the people from the motorcycle groups, car communities, golf cart and ATV communities are very supporting. They know this event is always the second Sunday of December, and they don’t plan anything else.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

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HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Part of the art exhibit “De La Mano,” which will open tonight at the Bakersfield Museum of Art.

Culture, landscapes mark trio of winter exhibits BY CAMILLE GAVIN Contributing writer

or its winter exhibitions, which open with a reception this evening, the Bakersfield Museum of Art is offering a broad range of subject matter represented by the work of a large number of historic and contemporary artists — 36 in all. Even though none of the three exhibits has a holiday theme, I did spot a bright green piece called “Christmas Cactus” during a preview visit last week. The rectangular sculpture by Rogelio Gutierrez is approximately four feet high, studded with colorful light bulbs and sure to bring a smile to your face. And I’m guessing that another eyecatcher for visitors will be a 1968 Chevrolet Impala. The car had yet to arrive when I visited, but Jason Gutierrez, the museum’s marketing director, said it will be placed in the center of the “De La Mano” exhibit in the Chevron gallery. “It’s coming from San Francisco,” Gutierrez said, “and it’s covered with prints done by Artemio Rodriguez, one of the founders of La Mano Press.” With the exception of “Shifting Landscapes,” an attractive group of oil paintings by Chelsea James and Ryan Reynolds — both artists will be at the reception — the majority of artwork being shown is print-based and reflects various aspects of the art, politics and culture of Mexico. Gabriela Martinez, curator of the “De La Mano” exhibit, will be on hand to talk about the work done by two artists cooperatives, La Mano Press in Los Angeles and La Mano Grafica in Michoacan, Mexico. By far the largest exhibit is “Estampas de la Revolucion Mexicana,”

An oil on canvas piece by Ryan Reynolds for the art exhibit “Shifting Landscapes.”

which occupies both the Dezember and Cunningham galleries that form the central part of the art museum. The 85 linoleum block prints reflect the Mexican Revolution of 1910. The prints are on loan from the Clark Foundation for Mexican Folk Art. The selection is from artwork collected by C. Lee Clark, a professional art appraiser and former owner of a Bakersfield gallery. Most of the prints, some dated as early as 1937, were done by artists who fought in the revolution. Many portray episodes of that event as well as some of the heroes, such as Emiliano Zapata, who were leaders in the battle for social change. “The historical content is extremely important,” said Vikki Cruz, BMOA chief curator. She recommends taking a close look at the intricate detail in each print, the texture created by the

direction of the lines, as well as the subjects depicted. “As you look at each one, ask yourself questions about it,” Cruz said. Indicating a print that shows two shabbily dressed people being confronted by a soldier holding a bayonet, she suggested giving yourself a mental quiz, asking what the subjects’ facial expressions tell you, or why each is wearing a particular kind of clothing. All of these elements tell a story. Some of the prints are less subtle and seem more like political cartoons. For example, one titled “Traitor Saturnino,” done in 1938 by Alfredo Zalce Cedillo, is directed at American industrialists. It shows grinning tophatted men grabbing the ankles of peasants marching in a closely packed column. To represent the demands of the Mexican people, the print includes the Spanish words, “irrigacion, terras and educacion.” Starting on Friday all three exhibits will be on display at the art museum through March 4. Normal hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Usual admission fees are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students, and free to members of BMoA.

Winter Exhibitions Opening reception: 6 to 8 p.m. today Where: Bakersfield Museum of Art, 1930 R St. Admission: $10; free to members Information: 323-7219

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

The marching band from Wasco’s Thomas Jefferson Middle School walks down North Chester Avenue during the 2010 NOR Children’s Christmas Parade.

Oildale tradition keeps on marching BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

very holiday event has its unique traditions, and the Oildale Children’s Christmas Parade is certainly no exception. For the 39th year, organizers will continue to stipulate that all parade entrants be powered by humans or animals. In other words, no motorized floats or other vehicles. But that’s about the only rule this parade has. So long as you can walk or roll your way along the parade route, nearly anyone can sign up to take part in the event. Hundreds of people, animals, wagons — even Santa himself — will march, dance or simply walk their way down North Chester Avenue on Saturday as they celebrate “A Star Spangled Christmas.” And while the safety-conscious nomotor policy is certainly kid-friendly, the parade is not kid-exclusive. “We don’t discriminate,” said Roger Perez, marketing director for the North of the River Recreation and Park District. “We call it the ‘Children’s Christmas Parade’ because of the themes we have and because we try to make it safer for them, but everybody’s involved. A lot of people who started marching when they were in second or third grade are returning as adults.” Local radio broadcaster Doug DeRoo knows a little something about coming back for more. He’s been providing quips and commentary as the official parade announcer for years. “He’s kind of an institution around here,” Perez said. “Every year I get calls from people asking, ‘Is Doug doing the parade again?’” No stranger to entertaining audiences from behind a microphone, the longtime Bakersfield disc jockey estimates that he’s been providing the narration for the parade for nearly 30 years, though he’s not entirely sure. “If I had realized this thing was going to be a lifetime commitment, I might’ve said

Oildale Children’s Christmas Parade When: 10 a.m. Saturday Where: North Chester Avenue Admission: Free Informations: 392-2060

‘no,’” DeRoo laughed. “But I think I started back in the mid-’80s when I was doing the radio show at Q-94.” The former Oildale resident, who now lives in east Bakersfield, enjoyed the unique sense of community he experienced north of the river. He said the parade’s smaller, more intimate format with “kids, marching bands and dogs and wagons” serves as an appropriate reflection of Oildale itself. “It’s part of my checklist, part of my things ‘to do’ for the holidays: Put the lights up, get some eggnog, and do the Christmas parade.” In addition to hearing the abundance of marching bands (more than 20 last year) and watching the festively outfitted dance troupes and other groups fill the street with holiday cheer, parade spectators huddling together under blankets can expect to see a few more men and women in uniform this year. Keeping with the “Star Spangled Christmas” theme, Perez said many ROTC groups and military recruits opted to join this year’s slightly more patriotic incarnation of the parade. But the theme is about all that’s changed in the nearly two decades-long history of this Christmas cavalcade. And according to Perez, he and the rest of the staff at NOR plan to keep it that way. “We stick to the pretty standard format. It’s definitely the culminating event of the holiday season out here, so we like to put together something families can look forward to.”

BAKERSFIELD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA JOHN FARRER, MUSIC DIRECTOR and

CIVIC DANCE CENTER

CINDY TRUEBLOOD, DIRECTOR

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9TH - 7:30pm SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10TH - 1:00pm & 7:30pm SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11TH - 1:00PM Adult Tickets starting at $34 Full time students with current ID half price Children under 6 free with adult ticket purchase. Tickets available at Rabobank Arena Box Office or at Ticketmaster.com

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eye Street Camille Gavin CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

Choirs get into African spirit BHS groups prep for Swahili program

GO & DO Open Mic Poetry

When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. today Where: Russo’s Books, 9000 Stockdale Highway Admission: Free Information: 665-4686

hen I first learned that “Zawadi” was the title of the Bakersfield High School choirs’ winter concert, I wondered about its origin. So I checked with Christopher Borges, director of the choirs, who was able to fill me in on the details. It’s a Swahili word, he said, and it involves a link between a Bakersfield family and an educational foundation based in the East African country of Kenya. Borges explained that local resident Anne Lweny, whom he met through her daughter, Tamara Lweny, a former student, started the Deborah Amoi Foundation in 2009 in memory of her mother, Deborah Amoi, who taught elementary school in her native Kenya for most of her life. “They (the Lwenys) have been trying to get me to visit there for some time,” the director said. “Last summer a friend of mine was going there to do some work, and I went with him.” Borges was impressed with the work of the organization and has incorporated some elements of the DAF choral program into the concert on Tuesday at Harvey Auditorium. In fact, “Zawadi,” which means “gift,” is one of the songs he brought back. It was written by one of the teachers at the Kenyan school. “I visited many of the DAF kids and saw their schools and the homes they come from,” he said. “It was a wonderful experience, and I hope to translate that into monetary support for DAF.” All five BHS choirs — a total of 200 students — are including a song in Swahili. Also, videos of Borges’ trip to Kenya will be shown during the evening. Admission to the concert is free, but members of a BHS parents group will pass the hat through the audience at some point, collecting donations for the foundation. Borges said he hopes to raise $2,000, which would pay for about four (Kenyan) kids to go to school. The target group is

Open House Christmas Party When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Art Center, 1817 Eye St. Admission: Free Information: 869-2320

Holiday Craft Show

HENRY A. BARRIOS / THE CALIFORNIAN

Bakersfield High’s choir director Christopher Borges leads the group in preparation for a concert.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOOP MARKETING

Tiler Peck portrays Marzipan in the New York City Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.”

impoverished eighth-graders, some of whom are orphans, who have been accepted into high school but lack the fees to attend.

Tiler Peck in NYCB ‘Nutcracker’ Local fans have a chance to see Bakersfield native Tiler Peck, a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, in a performance of “The Nutcracker.” One of the largest groups

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

attending the show on Tuesday evening at Edwards Bakersfield Stadium 14 is bound to be students of Tiler’s mother, Georgia Peck, owner of Bakersfield Academy of Dance. “I’m hoping to get a block of tickets and maybe we’ll have a pizza party before the show,” Georgia said. “There should be about 30 of my students going and some of their parents, too — so about 40 in all or maybe even 50.” Tiler will perform the solo role of Marzipan to the music of “Dance of the Reed Pipes,” a part of the suite by Tchaikovsky.The ballet was choreographed by George Balanchine. Television personality Kelly Ripa will interview some of the dancers backstage during intermission. Since it is a live performance, it’s not known whether Tiler will be one of those interviewed.

BAA open house Gratitude is the central theme of an open house Christmas party the Bakersfield Art Association is holding on Saturday at its gallery in the downtown arts district. “It’s a year-end party to say thank you and we love you to all the volunteers and everyone who has supported us over the past year,” said Kathy Schilling. “It’s also a way of giving the Art Center a boost for the New Year.” Although admission to the event is free, it’s also intended as a fundraiser. The BAA hopes to raise money by holding a silent

auction during the party. Among the items being offered are art supplies, men’s and women’s watches, a porcelain mermaid doll made by Patti Doolittle, and a silk scarf and tie hand-painted by Schilling. Proceeds will be used to improve the Art Center’s lighting. In addition, much of the artwork for sale in the gallery has been marked down in price for the month of December. The sale includes original paintings as well as prints. “Each artist has put a little red bow on what’s being discounted,” Schilling said. “It’s up to the individual artist how much it will be.” The party will include refreshments and musical entertainment by guitarist Ron Johnson.

Poetry reading at Russo’s Poet Roger Nduku is being featured this evening at the monthly open mic program at Russo’s Books. A native of Congo in Central Africa, Nduku has lived in the United States for 24 years. Kevin Shah, series coordinator, said Nduku started writing poetry as a teenager and believes that poems are messages sent to the poet on subjects affecting his life. Following Nduku’s approximately 20-minute presentation, other poets are invited to share their work, particularly poems that reflect the Christmas season.

Holiday gifts event I’ve always found The Empty Space’s annual holiday craft show

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Where: The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Admission: Free Information: 327-PLAY

BHS Choirs “Zawadi” concert When: 7 p.m. Tuesday Where: Harvey Auditorium, 1401 G St. Admission: Free Information: 324-9841, ext. 71

New York City Ballet ‘The Nutcracker’ When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday Where: Edwards Bakersfield Stadium 13, 9000 Ming Ave. Admission: $20; $18 seniors; $16 children Information: 663-3042

a good place to find inexpensive stocking stuffers. And judging from what Michelle Guerrero Tolley tells me, the selection should be even larger this year. Due to a change in policy, the event will include offerings from a bakery and several merchants, as well as individuals. “In an effort to help promote more local artists and businesses, we have waived the usual split between the gallery and the artist,” she said. “Instead we have asked the participants to pay a very small booth fee.” Various kinds of entertainment will be provided during the fourhour event on Saturday. A story time for children will be held every hour, and at noon local comedian Morgan Roy perform on the theater’s stage.

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little older, a little wiser, dude Heyday gone, but Shore still looks for laughs BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

f you can recall when MTV actually played music videos, chances are you remember the antics of comedian Pauly Shore. A fixture on the cable network during the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;90s and host of his own comedy show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Totally Pauly,â&#x20AC;? the lovable misfit was impossible to avoid. His character, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Weaselâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; part surfer dude and Sunset Strip social butterfly â&#x20AC;&#x201D; became a pop culture phenom. Along the way, Shore starred in a series of B-comedies like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Encino Manâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Son in Law,â&#x20AC;? filmed partly on the outskirts of Wasco. Nearly two decades later, Shore remains active on the stand-up circuit, doing what he does best (or worst, depending on your point of view): being himself. His new live show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pauly Shore and Friends,â&#x20AC;? stops at Fishlips tonight. Older and wiser, the 43year old comedian/actor said in a recent telephone interview that fans might be surprised by his latest incarnation as a seasoned prankster. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just more in the pocket, more relatable, and just more stripped down Pauly. More per-

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAULY SHORE

Comedian Pauly Shore appears tonight at Fishlips.

sonal stuff, now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m older, now I got that kind of Bill Cosby-esque vibe where I can kind of look back and talk about my life, you know? And I think the autobiographical stuff is what people are really feelinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; more nowadays.â&#x20AC;? Shore grew up basking in the genius of comedians like Richard Pryor and Robin Williams, who performed at The Comedy Store, a Hollywood club owned by his mother, Mitzi Shore. Not that he cares to showboat about his

upbringing. On the contrary, Shore said he paid his dues just like everyone else, with no preferential treatment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You know, whether my mom owned the club or not, I was inherently a funny kid. I stayed away from The Comedy Store for years when I first started working around town as an adult. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wanna be known as Mitziâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son. I actually almost had to become famous before I became a paid regular. She made me work pretty

hard for it.â&#x20AC;? Still, not too many people can boast that Sam Kinison was their baby-sitter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was around guys like that â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Letterman, Eddie Murphy â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all the time, but I knew I was destined to do this. One thing about my mom is that if she likes you and thinks you have something, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll let you work at the club as a phone person or parking the cars or seating people. That was her way of saying, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re funny, but now the work begins.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? And work he did, which eventually landed him at MTV, which gave the comedian a shot at producing his own show with only a few years of stand-up under his belt. Young and fearless, Shore packed up his friends and a video camera with no plan but to â&#x20AC;&#x153;find the funny.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I literally just said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go on the street, and we started filming.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; It started with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sunset Strip weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to show everyone where I grew up. We went back to see the tape and said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;This is going to be the worst piece of (expletive) ever, or itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be really funny.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Luckily it was funny.â&#x20AC;? Acting as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Weasel,â&#x20AC;? Shore would introduce music videos between improvisational street skits featuring random celebs and passers-by. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was almost like that Reeseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peanut Butter Cup commercial where two things collide and

Pauly Shore and Friends When: 8 p.m. tonight Where: Fishlips, 1517 18th St. Cost: $20 Information: 324-2557 or vallitix.com

work. The Weasel character literally started on the show. I was like, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Woo-hoo, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m in a video, bro.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; That was it. It was the first reality show MTV ever had. Nothing was planned.â&#x20AC;? But after five years of spring break parties and groupies, the network pulled the plug on the show, sending Shore on his next adventure: movies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was the perfect segue, because I told them they had to come to film â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Totally Paulyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the movie set when I was just starting to get going. It was seamless. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a kid in your 20s starring in films. I was stoked. It was like Willie Wonka, man.â&#x20AC;? While â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bio-Domeâ&#x20AC;? wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be remembered for being anything close to Oscar-worthy, Shore has continued writing and producing, plus making regular appearances on the club circuit. Content with the niche heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carved out for himself, Shore said his life could have been yours, dude. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was just another kid who was watching MTV and said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I gotta be on there.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; You keep pushing for something, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll happen.â&#x20AC;?

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Talkin’ the blues with Bonamassa B

luesman Joe Bonamassa is surprisingly alert for a Sunday morning. After chasing the acclaimed guitarist through a series of emails and phone messages for my preview of tonight’s appearance at the Fox, I expected a grumpy musician clearing his throat after a night of overindulgence. Thankfully that was not the case. Myself on the other hand, well ... “How’s it goin’, man?,” said Bonamassa without a hint of sluggishness, before I thanked him for joining me at such a traditionally non-musician day and hour. “It’s Sunday, really? That’s cool. After 10½ weeks of touring, I usually ignore calendars.” After that introduction, I knew this would be a breeze. “This far into a 12-week tour, I’m just grateful to be vertical,” he added, laughing. Compared to many blues acts currently active on the circuit, Bonamassa is a relative youngster at 34, along with Derek Trucks, another shredder responsible for keeping the genre’s legacy alive. Selling out theaters during this latest trek in support of his 11th CD, “Dust Bowl,” Bonamassa can recall when blues artists had no established fans other than diehards and historians in the audience. And if you wanted a gig, opening for legends like Buddy Guy and others was your only option. That is until a couple of hot shots began to change the game. “Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Jonny Lang in the ’90s. Those were the first two that broke out from that, and rightfully so. They’re both

PHOTO BY CHRISTIE GOODWIN

Blues guitarist Jo Bonamassa appears tonight at the Fox.

“I do theaters and performing arts centers. So you’ll see Debbie Reynolds play one night, and then Bill Cosby, ‘The Nutcracker,’ then me, and maybe get a free cookie with each ticket.” — Joe Bonamassa

really talented, but it wasn’t much of a scene because it was only them. Now, there’s 15 to 20 bands nationally and internationally finding their market and audiences in the present blues scene.” He wasn’t far behind. Opening for B.B. King at the tender age of 12, Bonamassa is already mentioned in the same breath as guitar greats (and his friends) Warren Haynes, Robert Cray and Eric Clapton. Suffice it to say, his Blackberry is a guitarist’s dream, but also a testament to Bonamassa’s commitment to the blues. “You look back and you look

forward. I’m looking towards the future. Sure, I can look at my Blackberry and see the list of names get longer, but I don’t rest on that. I will say this, though: My bucket list is already complete as far as I’m concerned.” In addition to an impressive list of associations, Bonamassa’s achievements extend to his ability to sell out venues overseas. Two years ago he sold out England’s historic Royal Albert Hall in less than a week, a feat that also resulted in a best-selling live recording. Back home, it’s a different scene altogether, and far less regal. “Here, I do theaters and performing arts centers. So you’ll see Debbie Reynolds play one night, and then Bill Cosby, ‘The Nutcracker,’ then me, and maybe get a free cookie with each ticket.” That won’t be the case when he headlines the Fox. “It’s great coming back to Bakersfield. We played the Doubletree Hotel, and now we’re headlining at the Fox, expecting a great crowd. Fans can expect something really good. It’s well rehearsed — the band is really

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.

tight.” Before scurrying off to rest up for his Phoenix show later that evening, I was able to sneak in one more question about which recordings he recommends as required listening for up-andcoming blues aficionados. “John Mayall and The Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton, it’s an album called, ‘Beano.’ That’s an even tie with ‘B.B. King Live at the Regal.’ Between those two records, if you don’t find something that moves you, you don’t like the blues. It’s pretty simple at that point.” Tonight’s show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $49 to $79, and can be purchased at the Fox box office, 1001 H St., or by calling 324-1369. For more information visit vallitix.com.

Colt locked and loaded (literally) and set for Palace Not as perky as Bonamassa, but with energy enough for an email exchange, is country rap artist Colt Ford, who makes his local debut at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Monday. Laid up for a few days, this big bad boy of country was struck down by a nasty flu right before a recent show. With no choice but to cancel, he blamed a few wild nights for his laryngitis. “I’m in Vegas sick in the bed and it is driving me crazy,” wrote Ford, whose given name is Jason Farris Brown. A cowboy with a DIY work ethic, Ford’s journey from independent hustler to hit maker is an anomaly, especially given his past as a professional golfer. “That was true about 100 pounds ago. I did OK. I was able to pay my bills and support my family, so that wasn’t so bad. I still love to play but don’t get to as much as I would like.” Ford put down the clubs to seek country stardom. Not your average country hunk, his downhome party style has helped him garner fans, along with props from Southern rap vets Nappy

PHOTO COURTESY OF COLT FORD

Country singer Colt Ford appears at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Monday.

Roots, who make an appearance on his latest release, “Every Chance I Get.” “Those guys are really cool. The song we did, ‘Waste Some Time,’ is just about being laid back and having fun in the country. I think the fans like to see different things. It is about the song — as long as it is real, then that is what matters.” Hoping for a speedy recovery, Ford assured me he’ll be back on his game by the time he arrives at the Palace. And if he’s feeling really well, he said he’d be ready to share a shot or two of his own signature line of liquor — Goodtime Moonshine and Vodka. “We go nuts onstage. If you don’t have fun at my show, I think you need to go to the doctor and see what’s wrong with you. I can’t wait to get to such a historic place and have the opportunity to play for all of y’all who have never seen me. I promise I’ll give it all I’ve got.” Who said a rappin’ cowboy ain’t got street cred? Monday’s show kicks off at 7 p.m. Tickets are $17.50 to $25.50. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is located at 3805 Buck Owens Blvd. For more information call 3287560 or visit vallitix.com.

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Museum bakes up fun Children, parents sure to enjoy annual adventure BY GENE GARAYGORDOBIL Contributing writer

ookies may get top billing in the Kern County Museum’s holiday Cookies at the Clock Tower event, but it’s the activities that keep bringing children and their parents back. “It has always been a fun day for kids,” said Jackie Brouillette, the museum’s education and volunteer services manager. “We have a tremendous amount of activities, and most are arts and crafts-type things.” The museum has included arts and crafts activities since the event began in 2003. Hundreds of children and their parents get cookies and hot chocolate, get to meet Santa, and then get to go to activity stations, with many involving some type of hands-on craft, Brouillette said. Cookies are provided by Subway Restaurants. She said she is heavily involved in helping organize the Cookies at the

Cookies at the Clock Tower When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday Where: Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. Admission: $5 adults and children 3 to 12; museum members and children under 3 are free. Information: 868-8400.

Clock Tower event because it involves children. “We themed it around imagination this year, so we are calling each activity an ‘imagination station,’” Brouillette said. “There will be a really cool one, called Holiday at Hogwarts, which obviously has a ‘Harry Potter’ theme,” she said. “We’ll have one that is themed around ‘Star Wars.’ And we are actually going to have (people dressed up as) storm troopers here.” Brouillette said there will also be activities, including one called Under the Sea and another involving pirates. “We will also have one centered around bugs, where children will be

able to use magnifying glasses to look and then write down or draw what they see,” she said. “Sometimes we forget there is an amazing world beneath our feet that we never see. “Every day you see science in action, and you only need to ask the question, ‘Why?’,” Brouillette said. Each imagination station will include a couple of activities, she added. As in years past, the event will be in the Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center. Participants will enter through the museum to get to the discovery center, said Brouillette, who has been with the museum for 10 years. “It is such a fun event,” she said. “You get to meet Santa, have some cookies and hot chocolate, but you also get to do a bunch of fun activities. “Your child may take home a sea lion hat and a planet that they have designed themselves,” Brouillette said. “They’ll have a lot of crafts to take home, and it will be quite an experience to be around the storm troopers.”

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Liberty High to stage Dickens classic BY EMILY COUGHENOUR Contributing writer

or this year’s winter production, the Liberty High School drama department is putting on “A Christmas Carol,” the traditional story of Old Ebenezer Scrooge, his haunting by his friend’s ghost, and the journey we all know from selfish to selfless. Charles Dickens’ classic tale has graced the stage of LHS in the past, as well as those of other theater groups in town, but this version is bound to be successful with such a promising cast. Andrew Adriance is playing Scrooge, the selfish elderly man who lacks the basic human characteristic of generosity. Bob Cratchit, Scrooge’s mistreated and underpaid clerk with a large family to feed and a little boy with a health problem, is played by Jacob Brown. Bria Jensen plays Belle, the beauty who breaks the heart of Young Ebenezer, Chance Johnsen, and only

“A Christmas Carol” When: 7:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday Where: Performing Arts Center at Liberty High School, 925 Jewetta Ave. Admission: $7; $6 for students; $5 for students with ASB card

solidifies the unfortunate future he is headed toward. Hannah Schill plays the Ghost of Christmas Past, the spirit who visits Scrooge in the night to take him back in time and show him the mistakes he’s made and how it would affect his life. The Ghost of Christmas Present is played by Caitlin Wolfenstein, who comes to show Scrooge what the people in his life think of his selfish habits and how many people he has lost in the process. The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, the spirit that comes to show how horrid Scrooge’s future will

become if he continues living the life he has, is a silent puppet onstage that will be controlled by other actors with smaller roles. “I can see that a lot of the people are putting emotion into their parts and they are really getting into character,” said stage manager Emilee Hart. According to director Perry Ware, the show is made up of only a few seniors, a few juniors, some sophomores but mostly freshmen, which is a change of pace, considering that most productions in the past have been dominated by upperclassmen. However, the older members of the production staff have been very accepting of the new faces. “I love the new freshmen,” said Hart. “They add more personalities to a group that is already extremely different. I think that when we graduate, the theater productions will be in good hands.”

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SHARE YOUR STORIES OF SANTA Sitting on Santa’s lap can be a joyous experience in a young life. Or it can be sheer terror. Either way, we’d love a photo of you or a family member meeting the jolly old elf. Tell us the identities, from left to right, of everyone in the photo, the year it was taken, if you know it, and a short memory (100 words, max) of the event. Email is preferred. Send photo and information to msorto@bakersfield.com. Photos may be dropped off at The Californian, 1707 Eye St., or mailed to The Californian, c/o Marisol Sorto, PO Bin 440, Bakersfield. Photos will not be returned. All material is due by 5 p.m. Dec. 14.

(12:50PM, 3:10, 5:15), 7:30, 9:45 I

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eye Street

A White Christmas, here in Bakersfield? Maybe not, but ice center’s Playground comes close BY ASHLEY FISCHER Contributing writer

hen the only white stuff that envelopes our city is fog, the idea of skating on a frozen Lake Truxtun during the holiday season is pretty much just wishful thinking. Fortunately, Bakersfield Ice Sports Center is once again helping Kern County families get their fill of fun on the ice with the seventh annual Holiday Playground. “We just wanted to bring something unique to the community,” said Scott Hay, director of the ice complex and former goalie for the Bakersfield Condors. “We wanted to take that outdoor skating East Coast Christmas experience and bring that to Bakersfield.” For nearly every weekend in December (the rink is closed on Christmas Day), the ice complex is transformed into a winter wonderland worthy of even the big man in red himself, who will be dropping in from the North Pole every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. According to Hay, there is plenty of rooftop parking available for reindeerpulled flying sleighs. In order to achieve that ideal “wintery feeling,” staff at the ice center cover the hockey glass surrounding the rink in colored lights, along with the ice resurfacer, which will create soft, slushy snow for kids (and their parents) to play in. But the real star of the show (aside from Santa, of course), is the 30-foot-tall tree the ice center has shipped in from Oregon each year. “The whole rink smells like pine after they bring it in,” Hay said. Hoping to allow the natural beauty of the tree to shine through, Hay said they opted to keep the tree relatively simply decorated — lights only, no ornaments. But it’s under this impressive pine that kids can find Santa, along with a professional photographer, who will capture all of the plaintive pleas for a Fijit, an Xbox, or that ever-elusive pony. After making some tracks on the ice,

‘CALIFORNIAN RADIO’ Call: 661-395-756 email: mpatel@bakersfield.com

OR VISIT ANY OF THESE LOCATIONS TODAY!

Join Californian Lifestyles Editor Jennifer Self on “Californian Radio” today, when she chats with Don Oldaker, coordinator of this Sunday’s Toy Run and Food Drive, the wildly successful charity drive that raised $17,000 for needy families last year. Also on the program will be Chris Taylor of Bakersfield band Dub Seeds, which will be performing during this weekend’s entertainment blowout and Fishlips. The show airs from 9 to 10 a.m. on KERN Radio, 1180-AM. To join the fun, call 842KERN.

Holiday Playground When: Weekends in December. Dates and times vary; see full schedule online. Where: Bakersfield Ice Sports Center, 1325 Q St. Admission: $11, includes skate rental Information: 852-7405 or bakersfieldicesports.us

tuckered out kids can get creative in the arts and crafts corner, which will once again be hosted by the Ronald McDonald House Bakersfield. Kids can make keepsake ornaments and other holiday decorations to take home and hang on their own Christmas tree, or give away as gifts, if they’re really looking to seal their spot on the “nice” list. This is the second year that the ice center has teamed up with the charity organization, which will receive a portion of the proceeds earned from ticket sales. “Everyone there is so great to work with,” said Hay. “The director, Scarlett Sabin, and her family have been skating here for years, so it just seemed like a natural fit.” For an extra bit of holiday cheer, the complex has added live music performances this year. Not wanting to spoil the surprise, Hay wouldn’t reveal the groups he had lined up, but he did say the performances would be “holiday-themed” and would take place primarily on Saturdays and Sundays. While skating hand in hand with your honey would make for an excellent date night (Winter Playground runs until 11 p.m. every Friday and Saturday except Christmas Eve, when the rink closes at 4 p.m.), Hay said Winter Playground is definitely a holiday tradition intended for the entire family. “There’s something here for everyone. If the little kids want to come and play in the snow, or a 35-year-old wants to come and teach their kids to skate —there’s something for everyone to enjoy, and really get you in the Christmas spirit. You can’t come in here and leave without whistling Christmas songs to yourself.”

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street

Get laced up for holiday on ice Skating club ready to perform Winter Ice Show Saturday BY MIRANDA WHITWORTH Contributing writer

holiday performance is about to hit the city, and it's putting major local talent on ice. The Bakersfield Blades Figure Skating Club is taking over the Bakersfield Ice Sports Center with its annual Holiday Showcase Winter Ice Show. “Kids can get out there and perform their cute holiday number or regular routine,” said club president Fiona Hamilton. “It's a way for them to show their parents and families what they can really do." Admission to the Holiday Showcase is free with the donation of hygiene items that will be placed into care packages for the Bakersfield Rescue Mission, the second year of the club’s drive for the mission. Though the showcase features Bakersfield's young figure skating talent, it's

not just the kids who will be hitting the rink. “The club is all ages,” Hamilton said. “We have 4-year-olds up to adults that come out and skate. The show will have a 19-year-old skating, one of our adult coaches and even a lady in her 30s." Holding the event and keeping the club going is Hamilton’s way of promoting a sport that can sometimes be overlooked in sunny Bakersfield. “We are really here to represent the figure-skating community and build up interest in figure skating. Especially when it's a non-Olympic year, you need to give the sport a little kick and let people know that it's out there." And though Bakersfield may not be teeming with competitive skaters, Hamilton's daughter, Emma, is an a notable exception. Mother and daughter just returned from a competition in Michigan, where Emma skated as a member of California Gold, a Synchronized Skating team made up of 16 girls. Based on the team’s performance, California Gold will be competing for Team USA in February at the French Cup in

Holiday Showcase Winter Ice Show The Bakersfield Blades Figure Skating Club When: Noon to 2:30 p.m. Saturday Where: Bakersfield Ice Sports Center, 1325 Q St. Admission: Free with donation of a hygiene/toiletry item Information: bakersfieldbladesfsc.com

Rouen, France. Emma has been skating for seven years and got involved with the synchronized event as a way to keep up with skating in college. “It's very athletic and you have to be very organized,” Hamilton said of her daughter’s commitment to the sport. “Now that she is on the synchro team, she has to organize her time to stay on top of her homework. We drive to L.A. four times a week, leaving at 2:15 a.m. so she can be back in time for school.” Hamilton said the Holiday Showcase will be a great way to check out the sport and see what it has to offer. “There are so many different kinds of things you can get involved in with skating,” she said. “Whether it's synchro or even theater on ice. Figure skating in California isn't one of those bigger sports, so it's good to come out and see what it's really all about.”

Local magician set to wow crowd

ith a combination of music, comedy, suspense and mystery, local magician Christopher Lopez will take his audience on a journey through his world of magic with a show Friday. Lopez, who has been practicing and performing magic for 20 years, saw his first magic trick at age 7 when his father performed an effect where a dime disappeared from his hands and reappeared in a box that was sitting on the table. From that point on, Lopez began studying everything he could on magic. He performed his first live magic show as a 10-year-old at his brother’s company picnic. Lopez uses tricks such as sleight of hand, parlor, levitations, predictions and grand illusion. In this year’s show, Lopez ups the ante with large illusions such as Houdini’s Metamorphosis, Floating Lady, The Indian Sword Basket, Shadow Box, Snow, The Painting, a vertical sawing in half illusion and more. — Information taken from a media release provided by Christopher Lopez

Christopher Lopez magic show When: 7 p.m. Friday Where: Bakersfield City School District Auditorium, 1300 Baker St. Admission: $15, children 2 and under are free Information: clomagic.webs.com or 872-3699

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 23

old for the smallest parts — bonbons and gingers (gingerbread children) — she danced as an angel and in the iconic snow scene, which can be a challenge. “It’s very tricky. You can't see the floor. There is a layer of fog there,” Conrad said. “You have to be — no pun intended — on your toes, right on your leg, aware of what’s going on all the time.” Trueblood concurred, saying, “Technically, you have to be such a strong dancer. You have to stay on your leg and not slip. It takes a lot of control, core strength.” Conrad danced the role of the Snow Queen at age 18 (“I enjoyed that because it was a lead role”) before taking a break from local performing. She was asked to dance yearround with the Contra Costa Ballet and finished high school in Northern California. When she returned to Bakersfield, she picked up where she left off, teaching dance classes for the Truebloods and taking part in the “Nutcracker.” “Cindy likes to have alumni in the show,” Conrad said. “She would always try to get me to do ‘Waltz of the Flowers.’ She’d put me in there somewhere.”

That inclusive spirit extended to Conrad’s first-born daughter, who was among the youngest ever to be cast in the local show. “When we held auditions, she was 3 when she received the role (of a bonbon). Her birthday was in November, so she was 4 in the show.” Now 13, Natalie danced in the Mother Ginger scene for seven years, as a bonbon for three and progressed to other roles. “She worked her way up,” Conrad said. “The gingers grow in height; the taller you get (they wear different colors). She went from pink to blue to purple to yellow.” Younger daughter Chloe, now 10, started dancing later than her sister, at age 5. “I waited to put (Chloe) in dance. She had a very different personality (than Natalie). She wasn’t ready for the discipline. Now she asks me for private lessons if we have down time. To really work with her, that’s a great compliment to me.” Of course, such a close collaboration is not without some hiccups along the way. “I’ve had Natalie tell me I was wrong before. It’s hard to teach your own kids, to draw that line

between mom and teacher, but it’s a blessing at the same time.” But this weekend, Conrad and Trueblood will see their hard work as teachers pay off. Trueblood will be in the wings at all four shows, which feature about 150 dancers, including Erica Ueberroth as the Sugar Plum Fairy; Patrick O’Brien as the fairy’s Cavalier; Emma Walsh and Kira Morris, splitting performances as Dream Clara; Keira Whitaker as Rose, the lead in “Waltz of the Flowers”; Trueblood’s husband, Kevin, as Drosselmeyer; Austin Erwin as the Prince; and his dad, Scott Erwin, as the Nutcracker. While the younger Erwin, a high school junior, has studied ballet, jazz and contemporary dance since he was a boy, his father doesn’t have the same dance background. That’s OK for the titular role, Trueblood said, as long as he has a flair for the dramatic. “Scott had some previous theatrical experience. He’s doing really well. He’s a good character actor.” The love of dance and theater — and the hectic schedule — is something all the local “Nutcracker” cast and crew can understand, especially Trueblood.

CONTINUED FROM 22

it, plugged it into his amp, hit the strings, and … nothing. Not a sound. He didn’t panic — he’s a pro, after all. He just handed it to me and we all ran back into the back room. With almost no appropriate tools, we took that thing apart, and, not seeing immediately what the problem was, we just put it back together and took it right back to the stage. We all took a deep breath, and he plugged it in and then … a fat, overdriven “E” chord came flying out of his amplifier. It was beautiful. We raised $1,600 with that guitar. We were stalled out at $1,500, but when I told Gary that Dick Dale’s guitar went for $1,600 the month before, he threw in a hundred of his own money. It was a perfect rock star moment.

Did someone say cowbell? OK, so technically no one said, “Cowbell.” But you can’t stop an artist when he’s on fire! Cowbell Trio: I’m not quite certain how we all ended up on the stage at the same time, but I had the opportunity to perform alongside two of my musical heroes: Matt Munoz of Mento Buru and Dave Wulfekuehler of the Buckaroos. I do recall the band gradually stopping altogether, giving in to the awesome power of the cowbell. We dragged that performance out for nearly 5 minutes, which must seem like

Fishlips’ final shows 1517 18th St.; 324-2557 Tonight: Pauly Shore, 8 p.m.; $20 Friday: Haleamano, 9 p.m.; $7 Sunday: BC nursing program benefit, with Kenny Reeves, Mento Buru and Members only; 3 to 7 p.m. Last Jam follows, with Grant Langston, Backup Johnny, Mento Buru, Paul Chesne, Dub Seeds, WMDs, other guests; $10 Monday: Gary Hoey, Ho Ho Hoey Christmas Show, 8 p.m.; $25, plus fee

years when you’re hearing three concurrent cowbell solos. Dave Alvin: There’s no need to sugarcoat this: Dave Alvin is the coolest man on earth. I got to see him play several times at Fishlips, and every time he just took over the whole building with the power of his music. Perhaps more importantly, every time he found a few minutes to hang out. We sat at a table and talked through the world’s problems. He is a very gifted man, and he’s got a lot of soul. I’ll see him play again, but I don’t know where. Albert Lee: Albert has been one of my guitar heroes for decades, and when I heard he was coming to Fishlips, it took a while to sink in. Emmylou Harris once said that her greatest achievement in music was playing in a band with Albert. He’s that legendary, and that good. I really wanted to get a picture of me and my cowbell onstage with Albert, but I was really nervous about getting too close to him. After all, he’s Albert freakin’ Lee! So I went up to him in the middle of a song and asked if I could stand next to him for a moment, and he said: “My boy, I was just going to ask you the same thing.” Now that was a cool moment. The Band of Heathens: Nothing fancy

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Christina Barragan, center, completes a nice aerial move while performing in the “Nutcracker” ballet. See more photos on page 15.

And although the months of work pay off for audiences in four shows this weekend, the dance impresario enjoyed her Christmas gift last weekend with the dress rehearsal. “What I love is the weekend we just had when everything comes together,” Trueblood said. “I can

about this story. Shawna and Andrew know that the Heathens are my favorite band, and booked them. I’d seen them play, but watching them amaze a packed house in my favorite venue was just fantastic.

bask in the glory of all the hard work. We’re in the studio, so you can really see the expressions, see the sweat dripping off of them. Seeing everything put together — the dances are finished, the choreography is done — you can sit back and watch the kids make magic.”

at 1 in the morning. We’ve been friends ever since. I hated to tell him about Fishlips closing, but he assures me that a true Texan can always find a place to play.

Paul Chesne: I don’t even know how to describe this band: country/rock/soul/blues/reggae with the occasional rap cover? I love these guys, and wouldn’t have heard of them if it weren’t for Fishlips. They are a menace to themselves and others, and I will happily drive to L.A. to see them in the future. Seeing Chez isn’t just a show; it’s an experience. Rosie Florez: Another Texas treasure that we got to play on her way to someplace else. Rosie plays country and rockabilly the way they did back in the day. The highlight, of the show (for me, if not for her) was when her amp began to die. I texted my wife and asked her very nicely to bring an amp we had at home to Fishlips. About 10 minutes later, the telltale buzz of an amp about to give up the ghost got a bit louder, accompanied by that acrid burning smell. You never forget that smell. The smell of an amp that just sacrificed itself for someone’s art. The show came to a screeching halt. Then, like Winston Wolf from “Pulp Fiction,” I stroll briskly out the front door, grab the waiting Rivera Venus 3, walk right up onstage and plug it in. Rosie fiddled with the knobs for a few seconds and the show resumed. People loved Rosie and her show, and to this day I take most of the credit. Kinky Friedman: Kinky is one of the world’s all-time great songwriters, storytellers and philosophers. We had a beverage or two, solved nearly every political challenge facing our country (don’t forget, Kinky was very nearly elected governor of Texas), and generally just bonded. Then, after a superb performance, we went to Zingo’s for chicken-fried steaks and coffee

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOTT COX

The best secret I was ever let in on: A private show, starring hometown legend Merle Haggard, at Fishlips. How was I lucky enough to get on that list? Merle Haggard: I got a very mysterious call from Shawna one day, which is odd, as she’s not generally the mysterious type. I was told to be at the back door of Fishlips at 7 sharp. And to come alone. Creepy. I thought there was a chance that it was an intervention, but who’d have one of those in a bar? As it turned out, Merle Haggard was throwing a surprise birthday party for his friend. It was invitation only, and the guest list was impressive as Bakersfield gets. As I recall, Sheriff Donny Youngblood was very concerned about how I got in. And I was thinking the same thing about him. Merle seemed to relish playing for friends and family instead of strangers (pun intended). He told me after the show that playing for love is more fun than playing for money. Since nobody has ever paid me to play cowbell, I’ll have to take his word on that. — Catch Scott Cox’s radio show from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday on KERN 1180-AM.

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street GO&DO Today “Christmas Around the World” Holiday Event, with many nativity items from over 40 countries, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Saturday, now until Dec. 30, Timeless Furnishings, 1918 Chester Ave. $20 family of four; $8 individual; $5 children; children under 8 are free. christmasworldevent.com. A Hip Hop Contest Show, Battle of Bakersfield, local rap competition, Kyle Brown and others, 21 and over only, 9 p.m., Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista. $5. 324-6774. 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. Girls’ Night Out Class “Ornament Dots!,” paint, munch and mingle and make a holiday platter, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $45. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 6647366. HolidayLights @ CALM, open daily 5:30 to 9 p.m. from Dec. 2 through Jan. 1, except Dec. 25, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. $12; $10 seniors and children ages 1317; $6 ages 3-12. $2 off admission Mondays through Thursdays until Dec. 15. vallitix.com or 322-5200, 872-2256. Joe Bonamassa, doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $49 to $79. vallitix.com or 3225200. Pauly Shore & Friends, 8 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $20. vallitix.com or 3225200. Red Cross New Volunteer Orientation, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., American Red Cross, Kern Chapter, 5035 Gilmore Ave. 324-6427.

Friday 6th annual “The Magical Forest,” presented by BARC; from Dec. 9 to Dec. 23, with a Grinchmobile, The Giving Tree, photos with Santa, 6 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $5 adults; $4 seniors; $3 children; children 5 and under are free. barc-inc.org or 71MAGIC. Condors vs. Stockton, 7 p.m., Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Tickets: Rabobank box office, ticketmaster.com or 324-7825. Haleamano, 9 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $7. 324-2557. Kern County Fair Holiday Classic, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, Livestock Barns, 1142 S. P St. Free. 833-4934. Magic Show with Christopher Lopez, Feeling Alive” Tour, 7 p.m., Bakersfield City School District Auditorium, 1300 Baker St. $15, children 2 and under are free. Visit chrislopez.com or 872-3699. Nutcracker, 7:30 p.m. Friday; 1 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday, Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $34 to $38 plus fee. Full-time students half price w/ID; children 6 and under are free. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Winter Playground, ice skating, Santa Claus, arts and crafts room, snow play area, 6 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Bakersfield Ice Sports Center, 1325 Q St. $11. 852-7400.

Saturday “Holiday Showcase” Winter Ice Show, with the Bakersfield Blades Figure Skating Club, noon to 2:30 p.m., Bakersfield Ice Sports Center, 1325 Q St. Free with donation

of a hygiene item that will be donated for the Bakersfield Rescue Mission Christmas care packages. BakersfieldBladesFSC.com. 39th annual NOR Children’s Christmas Parade, “A Star Spangled Christmas,” 10 a.m. at N. Chester Ave., in Oildale. 392-2060. Bakersfield Club of the Deaf Christmas Dinner, games, door prizes, socializing, 6 to 10 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Road. $20 adults; $10 children under 10. Email BCODeaf@gmail.com. Certified Farmers Market, 8 a.m. to noon, next to Golden State Mall, 3201 F St. Christmas Around the World Christmas Tree Display, come see many decorated trees, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Shafter Depot Museum, 150 Central Valley Highway, Shafter. 746-4423. Electronic Waste & Bulk Waste Collection, bring unwanted electronic items, 8 a.m. to noon, Taft College, 29 Emmons Park Drive, Taft. Free. Email nlagness@yahoo.com or 369-9861. Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brimhall Square, 9500 Brimhall Road. Kern Audubon Society, field trip to the Kern Water Bank, meet at 8:30 a.m., at the Kern River Parkway parking lot on Stockdale Highway across from CSUB. Bring binoculars, snack, and water. Web site www.kernaudubonsociety.org or 322-7470. Kern County Fair Holiday Classic, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Kern County Fairgrounds, Livestock Barns, 1142 S. P St. Free. 833-4934. Merle Haggard, 8 p.m., Bakersfield Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $40.50-$90.50. foxtheateronline.com or 324-1369. Paint with Santa, paint ornaments, decorate cookies, and make a keepsake “Santa and Me” hand print plate, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Color Me Mine at the Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $33. 664-7366. Star Party with Kern Astronomical Society, 8 to 10 p.m., The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. 487-2519. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10859, Rosedale & Ladies Auxiliary, 9:30 a.m., Greenacres Community Center, 2014 Calloway Drive. 588-5865. 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 3917080.

Sunday 28th annual Bakersfield Toy Run & Food Drive, with door prizes, food, trophies for best “Christmas” decorated bike, car and kart, staging at 7 a.m. at Beach Park, 3400 21st St., parade of toys leaves park at 10 a.m. to Kern County Fairgrounds. Fee is $20 or $20 worth of f food and toys. 319-3666. BC Nursing Fundraiser for Class of May 2013, 3 to 8 p.m., with a Last Jam to follow at 8 p.m., with Grant Langston, Backup Johnny, Mento Buru, Paul Chesne, Dub Seeds, WMDs, other guests, Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $10. vallitix.com or 3225200. Tickets can be purchased at the door also. Cookies at the Clock Tower, enjoy cookies, hot drinks, family activities, crafts, games, Santa, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Kern County Museum, 3801 Chester Ave. $5 adults and children 3-12; members and children under 3 are free. 868-8400. Flamenco Night, with wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres, 5 p.m., Juliana’s Art Studio & Gallery, 501 18th St. $25. Cocktail attire. 3277507. Please see 34

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 8, 2011

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 33

LifeSavers Ministries 11th annual Fiesta For Life, with emcee Don Clark, dinner, 6 to 9 p.m., Eagles Hall, 1718 17th St. $35. Visit fiestaforlife.com or 323-BABY. Walking Procession of “Our Lady of Guadalupe,” begins at 200 Campus Drive (city hall) at 11 a.m., then proceeds down to Bear Mountain Boulevard/Highway 223 to St. Thomas Catholic Church, 350 E. Bear Mountain Boulevard with a Mass to follow. In Arvin. 854-6150.

THEATER “A Rosie Christmas,” doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. today and Friday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Stars Dinner Theatre, 1931 Chester Ave. $45 to $55; show-only tickets $35; matinee $45 to $50. 3256100. “A Christmas Story,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Bakersfield Community Theatre, 2400 S. Chester Ave. $12, $10. 831-8114. “Charles’ Dickens’ A Christmas Carol,” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted. 327-PLAY. “Mrs. Claus Saves Christmas,” followed by the vaudeville revue “Yuletide Surprise,” 7 p.m. Friday, 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall, 12748 Jomani Drive. $21 to $23. 587-3377. “White Christmas,” 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. $25; $22 students/seniors. 6340692 or thespotlighttheatre.com. Improv Comedy Show, with Center For Improv Advancement, 8 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Ice House, 3401 Chester Ave., Suite M. Adults: $5, children under 12 are $1. ciacomedy.com. Major League Improv, improvisational comedy show, appropriate for families, 6 p.m. Saturdays, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. Free but donations are accepted. 327-PLAY. RAT, offensive comedy sketch, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, The Empty Space, 706 Oak St. $5. 327PLAY.

ART Lila Martin, artwork on display for the month of December, Capitol Real Estate Group, 1700 Chester Ave. Call Lila at 330-0965. Michelle Leggett, featured artist for the month of December, Dagny’s Coffee Co., 1600 20th St. 634-0806. Art Center Christmas Open House, with live music, refreshments, silent auction, Christmas gift items on sale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Bakersfield Art Association Art Center, 1817 Eye St. 8692320. 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. 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 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 Acoustic rock Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Steve Mezzetta, 9 p.m. Thursday. $5.

Blues Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; Live music, 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday, Trout’s, 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517. The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 831-1413; Electric Grease, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5.

Classic Rock Crest Bar & Grill, inside Bakersfield RV Resort, 5025 Wible Road, 833-9998; Mike Montano, 6 p.m. Friday. Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 110, 325-2535; Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. Julie’s The Branding Iron Saloon, 1807 N. Chester Ave., Left Coast Groovies and Friends, 7:30 p.m. Friday. The Old River Monte Carlo, 9750 Taft Highway, 837-0250; No Limit, 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; Twang Bangers, 9 p.m. Friday; Catch 22, 9 p.m. Saturday.

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, Christmas Ball, with music by Jerry Hobbs, 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Kern City Town Hall, 1003 Pebble Beach Drive. $6 member; $8 guest. 831-9241. Pairs and Spares Dance, with 2Shabi, 7 p.m. Friday, Rasmussen Senior Center, 115 E. Roberts Lane. $5; $7 nonmembers. 3993575. Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

DJ Banacek’s Lounge, 4601 State Road, 387-9224; with DJ Casey Overstreet, 9 p.m. Fridays. DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court. 323-7111; live in the mix: old school, ’80s, & ’90s music, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. every Saturday. Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, 834-1611; with DJ Chill in the Mixx, 5 p.m. every Friday until 2 a.m. Saturday. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; DJ James, 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Free. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 3228900; Beat Surrender, 9 p.m. Friday. Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774; Deejay Redeemed, Deejay SoFly and more, 8:30 p.m. Friday. $5. The Bull Shed Bar & Grill, at Hotel Rosedale, 2400 Camino Del Rio Court, 327-0681; with Meg, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Gothic Riley's Tavern, 1523 19th St.; Heresy Gothic Night, 9 p.m. Saturday.

Comedy

Jazz

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

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 Mike Montano, 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 pm. Tuesdays. 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.

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

Dancing African Dance, with Ayo, 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, 4000 Easton Drive., Ste. 9. $10 per class, $20 for three. Email sharpemouzon@yahoo.com. Folklorico Classes, advance dancers/performing group 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays; and beginners, all

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, 6 to 10 p.m. every Thursday at 4215 Rosedale Highway. 633-1948. 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. 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. Mondays 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. McMurphy’s Irish Pub & Sports Bar, 14 Monterey St., 869-1451; 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays. Pizzeria, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-

1111; 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Pour House, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 4041 Fruitvale Ave. 589-9300. Pyrenees Cafe, 601 Sumner, 3230053; 8 p.m. to midnight Saturdays. Replay Sports Lounge & Grill, 4500 Buck Owens Blvd., 3243300; 8 p.m. every Wednesday. Rocket Shop Cafe, 2000 S. Union Ave., 832-4800; 8:30 p.m. to midnight Saturday. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; 8 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays. Rocky’s Pizza & Arcade, 2858 Niles St., 873-1900; 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday. Round Table Pizza, 2060 White Lane, 836-2700; 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Round Table Pizza, 2620 Buck Owens Blvd., 327-9651; The Junction with host Mac Clanahan, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Round Table Pizza, 4200 Gosford Road, 397-1111; 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Rusty’s Pizza, 5430 Olive Drive, 392-1482; 6:30 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday. Sports & Spirits, 6633 Ming Ave., 398-7077; 9 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. Syndicate Lounge, 1818 Eye St., 327-0070; with Alisa Spencer, 9 p.m. every Wednesday. T-Bones Steakhouse, 8020 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 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. Tomi’s Cowgirl Cafe, 7 to 10 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at 1440 Weedpatch Hwy. 3635102. Trout’s, Kern River Blues Society Jam, 2 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday at 805 N. Chester Ave. 8727517. Trouts & The Blackboard Stages, 805 N. Chester Ave., 3996700; 7 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Vinny’s Bar & Grill, 2700 S. Union Ave., 496-2502, 7 p.m. Thursdays. 21 and over. Please see 35

Thursday, December 8, 2011 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM 34

Latin/Salsa DoubleTree Hotel, Club Odyssey, Club Odyssey, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court, 6331949; various levels, 3 to 9 p.m. every Sunday. $5 per person, per lesson. Tam O’Shanter, 2345 Alta Vista, 324-6774: DJ Blowskee, 8 p.m. Friday. $5. .

Mariachi Camino Real Restaurant, 6 to 9 p.m. every Sunday at 3500 Truxtun Ave. 8520493.

Music showcase The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 8311413; featuring local artists, 7 to 10 p.m. every Wednesday.

HolidayLights @ CALM, open daily 5:30 to 9 p.m. from Dec. 2 through Jan. 1, except Dec. 25, CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway. $12; $10 seniors and children ages 1317; $6 ages 3-12. $2 off admission Mondays through Thursdays until Dec. 15. vallitix.com or 322-5200, 872-2256. Gary Hoey, Ho Ho Hoey Christmas Show, 8 p.m., Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. $25 plus fee. 21 & over only. vallitix.com or 324-2557. League of Women Voters of Kern County, with speaker Ann Barnett, 11:30 a.m., Guild House, 1905 18th St. $18 includes lunch. 634-3773.

Tuesday 12/13

KC Steakhouse, 2515 F St., 322-9910; Jimmy Gaines, Bobby O and Mike Halls, 6:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

BHS Choirs Winter Concert, 7 to 9 p.m., Bakersfield High School, 1241 G St. $.5. 3249841. DBA Holiday Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., Timeless Furnishings, 1918 Chester Ave. $5; $7 nonmembers. 325-5892.

Old school

Wednesday 12/14

Jacalito Grill, 900 Truxtun Ave., Ste. 110, 325-2535; The Prisoners of Love, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday. o 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: Los Moonlighterz, 8:30 p.m. Saturday. $5.

The Christmas Music of Mannheim Steamroller, by Chip Davis, 7:30 p.m., the theater at Rabobank Convention Center, 1001 Truxtun Ave. $35 to $65 plus fee. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Art in the Afternoon, for children, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Beale Memorial Library, Arkelian children’s room, 701 Truxtun Ave. Free. 8680770. 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. Colt Ford, 7 p.m., Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. $17.50 to $25.50. vallitix.com or call 322-5200. Newcomer’s Luncheon, several of our members will be talking about their traditions for the holidays, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Riverlakes Ranch Golf Course, 5201 Riverlakes Drive. $15. 587-8292. Organ Recitals, lunch at noon, recital from 12:30 to 1 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1705 17th St. Lunch available for $6 before recital or feel free to bring your own lunch. 325-9419. South Oswell Neighborhood Clean Up, meet at 5:45 p.m., at the southeast corner of South Oswell and Zephyr Lane. 549-0517. Tehachapi Car Club, dinner at 5:30 p.m., meeting at 6:30 p.m., Tehachapi Moose Lodge, 123 W. F Street, Tehachapi. 8225092.

Oldies

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

Rock B. Ryder’s Sports Bar & Grill, 7401 White Lane, 397-7304; Kottonmouth Kings & Moonshine Bandits, 6 p.m. Saturday. $20. Rockstarz Party Bar, 7737 Meany Ave., Suite B5, 589-6749; live bands, 9 p.m. every Thursday.

Ska/reggae Narducci's Cafe, 622 E. 21 St., 324-2961; Mento Buru with DJ Mikey, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5.

Trivia night Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, 3090 Brundage Lane, 325-2139; 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Chuy’s, 2500 New Stine Road, 833-3469; 7 p.m. every Tuesday. trivia night. Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; Trivia Night with Dave Rezac, 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

Variety Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 322-8900; Chrisanova, 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday 12/12 “Christmas Around the World” Holiday Event, with many nativity items from over 40 countries, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, now until Dec. 30, Timeless Furnishings, 1918 Chester Ave. $20 family of four; $8 individual; $5 children; children under 8 are free. christmasworldevent.com. 6th annual “The Magical Forest,” presented by BARC; from Dec. 9 to Dec. 23, with a Grinchmobile, The Giving Tree, photos with Santa, 6 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $5 adults; $4 seniors; $3 children; children 5 and under are free. barc-inc.org or 71MAGIC.

Thursday 12/15 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. Girls’ Night Out Class “Ornament Dots!,” paint, munch and mingle and make a holiday platter, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Color Me Mine at The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave. $45. bakersfield.colormemine.com or 6647366. Kern County Mineral Society, meeting, 7:30 p.m., East Bakersfield Veterans Hall, 2101 Ridge Rd. 834-3128.

Friday 12/16 Covenant’s Fostering Hope Christmas Party, food and passing out gifts to foster children and former foster youth served by Covenant Community Services, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Valley Baptist Church, 4800 Fruitvale Ave. Free. 829-6999.